15-02-2025
Cleburne chamber hosts 106th annual awards banquet
Hundreds gathered Thursday night to celebrate the leaders helping 'build the bridges to success' in Cleburne as the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce hosted the 106th annual awards celebration.
Pinnacle Bank Regional President Tim Whitlock received the Citizen of the Year award, and Farmers Insurance Agent Blake Jones received the Wall of Fame award. Several new awards were also added this year, including the All Aboard Partnership Award, which was presented to Bennett's Printing & Office Supply owners Gary and Melissa Bennett.
Cleburne Mayor Scott Cain reflected on the year 2024 and the city's successes.
'Seven hundred forty-nine new homes, 465 new residents, 154 new certificates of occupancy … I think you could say Cleburne is growing,' Cain said. 'Why are people wanting to move to Cleburne? And the answer is really simple, it's our people. It's you — people come to your shops and to your businesses, and they see that Cleburne spirit, and they want to be a part of it. And they come here.'
Citizen of the Year
The Citizen of the Year Award recognizes a local resident that has served the community with outstanding selfless service.
'Tim's gracious spirit, unwavering selflessness and loyalty to our community is beyond measure,' Trammell said. 'He truly set the example of what Cleburne represents. His selflessness is reflected in his compassion and dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of anyone he meets.'
Whitlock has worked in Cleburne his entire life. He serves on the Texas Health hospital board, Jump Start, The Fathers House Board and Pinnacle Bank board of directors.
Over the years he has been involved in multiple boards and committees in Cleburne, including the chamber, Leadership Cleburne, Boy Scout Breakfast, Jaycee's, Tuesday Forum, Honorary Chairperson for East Cleburne Community Center banquet, United Way of Johnson County president and Cleburne Economic Development Foundation. He was integral in getting LifeVac systems into all CISD schools. He also introduced Cleburne ISD to the HOPE Squad through the Elizabeth Jordan Foundation.
He was one of the founding board members of Fathers House, Spark Worldwide ministries and the Jump Start program.
Wall of Fame
The Wall of Fame Award is presented to a chamber member who exemplifies true voluntary chamber effort and support.
'This award is for a second mile effort that results in a significant contribution to the successful completion of a project or to the continuing chamber program,' Trammell said. 'Blake has been instrumental in the growth of the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce and community for years.'
A lifelong Cleburne resident, Jones graduated from Cleburne High School in 2008 and Texas Christian University in 2012.
After starting his career in the hospitality industry, where he met his wife, Jennifer, he transitioned into the insurance industry in 2013, becoming the youngest Farmers Insurance agent in Texas at that time.
He has held various leadership roles, including three terms on the Cleburne Chamber of Commerce executive board. In 2019, he served as president of the Cleburne Rotary Club, and in 2015, he was honored with the Young Business Professional Award.
In addition to his business and civic achievements, Jones has served as vice chair of the Building and Standards Commission for three years and chair for five. He is also the councilman for Single Member District 2 for the city of Cleburne and serves as Mayor Pro-Tem, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to leadership and public service in his hometown.
Young Business Professional Award
The Young Business Professional Award recognizes a young business professional displaying leadership characteristics, innovation and dedication to the continued growth of the community. Vice President of Sharp Image Homes Cory Murray received the award.
'Cory exemplifies the spirit of innovation, leadership and dedication that this award seeks to recognize,' Trammell said. 'His relentless drive to improve not only himself but also the community he serves, along with his work ethic, integrity and visionary leadership have inspired those around him and left a lasting impact on our region. Whether through mentoring young professionals, advocating for veterans, or supporting local development initiatives, Cory embodies the qualities of a young leader who is shaping a brighter future for Cleburne.'
Murray serves on the Johnson County Builders Association, Johnson County Government Affairs Committee and Jump Start.
Community Service Award
The Community Service Award award recognizes a local Johnson County organization, club or individual that has served the community in outstanding selfless service.
The Cleburne Lions Club received the award for their involvement in the community for over 100 years.
'The Cleburne Lions Club's most significant focus is on eyesight conservation, particularly for students in our community,' Trammell said. 'In addition to its work in eyesight conservation, the Lions Club is one of the longest-serving volunteer groups for the Meals on Wheels program, delivering meals four days a week to those in need.'
The club also engages with Adams Elementary School as their adoptive school, listening to students twice a week, to help foster literacy and learning. The club actively collects winter coats and gear for local families, recycles eyeglasses for the Lions 2-E2 Eyeglass Recycling Center in Watauga, and hosts community events like the Drug Awareness Poster Contest for CISD and the Diabetes Essay Contest.
Rookie of the Year
One of the new awards, Rookie of the Year recognizes a chamber member that demonstrates outstanding use of chamber benefits and resources within the first two years of their membership. Mentors Care received the award.
'Mentors Care specifically stands out for its commitment to uplifting students facing obstacles such as homelessness, hunger, unstable support systems and other significant barriers,' Trammell said. 'By pairing these students with caring adults, Mentors Care creates a lifeline for young people who might otherwise feel invisible or unsupported.'
The organization joined the chamber in 2024 and aligned its mission with the chamber's goals. They used all the marketing avenues the chamber has to offer, which assisted in finding mentors to fulfill their mission.
All Aboard Partnership Award
Another new award, the All Aboard Partnership Award recognizes and honors businesses or individuals that have excelled in building relationships, fostering partnerships and promoting collaboration within the local business community.
Gary and Melissa Bennett accepted the award for their business, Bennett's Printing.
'Bennett's Printing has been in business for over 60 years and has excelled in fostering relationships, projecting warm and cheerful attitudes while handling all situations in an admirable professional manner.,' Trammell said. 'They are the first to step up and assist in promoting local business and events in every facet they have access to. Bennett's continuously supports the community by giving their time and through actual donations. They share on social media; their windows are full of community flyers and they always step up to support and give back to help others succeed.'
Large Business Chamber Award
Interamerican Foods Corporation/ La Moderna accepted the Large Business Chamber Award, honors a business of 21 or more employees showing exceptional leadership, innovation, sustainable practices, ethical standards, local community service commitment and chamber support.
'As a prominent member of the chamber and a vital contributor to the local economy, La Moderna exemplifies exceptional leadership, innovation and an unwavering commitment to the community,' Trammell said. 'La Moderna has consistently demonstrated growth and innovation, significantly impacting Johnson County and the city of Cleburne. By continually investing in state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies and expanding their workforce, they have bolstered the local economy. Their efforts not only create jobs but also foster long-term economic stability and development in the area.'
La Moderna is deeply involved in projects that enhance the quality of life in Cleburne. Their contributions to local organizations, sponsorship of community events and support for civic initiatives reflect their dedication to improving the lives of residents.
Small Business Award
Peacock's Transmission received the Small Business Award, which honors a business of 20 or less employees that shows exceptional leadership, innovation, local community service and chamber support.
'Peacock's Transmission embodies the qualities of a model business: integrity, dedication, community spirit and support,' Trammell said. 'Peacock's Transmission has been a staple in our community for over 45 years. They have earned a reputation for innovation, continually investing in new technology and training to stay at the forefront of their industry. Their transparent approach and honesty in business have fostered a loyal customer base and a strong relationship in the community and within the industry.'
Through the years Peacock's Transmission has supported numerous charitable events, local organizations, youth and senior programs, partnered with local Shop with a Cop day, Christmas Wish, Bikes for Angels, Johnson County Sheriff's Posse, SHINE Together, Home Plate Project, Project 66, veterans programs and more.
Ambassador Awards
Denet Macias with Blake Jones Farmers Insurance received the Ambassador of the Year Award, which is voted on by fellow ambassadors. Macias and The Strand's Teresa Graff both received the Gold Cup Award for bringing in at least five new members during the year.
The 2024 Ambassador Team of the Year Award went to Angelia McDaniel's team, which included Alicia Johnson, Allison Guzman, Dustin Engle, Frances Hafford, Melinda Fowler, Shane McNeal and Carmon Brown. McDaniel's team attended 79 ribbon cuttings, as well as groundbreakings and grand openings.
Graff, Teri Castanuela and Johnson all received the Brigadier General Ambassador rank for a total of four years of service as an ambassador.
