The Charleston Chamber is now accepting nominations for three awards that will be presented as part of the program at the Chamber Annual Dinner on January 27, 2018.
The Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award has been presented by the Chamber each year since 1965. The criteria for judging each nominee are: (1) demonstration of an active leadership role for the betterment of the community; (2) membership in business, civic, social and/or service organizations; (3) a willingness to serve as demonstrated by years of service; (4) a high level of personal commitment; and (5) service as a role model to help others reach their full potential.
Dr. David Glassman was recognized as the Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award last year.
Other recent recipients have been: Lyla McGuire (2016), Toq Lawrence (2015), Dale Wolf (2014), Mike Metzger (2013), Mike Stanfield (2012), Mike Murray (2011), Motherlode (2010), Sheryl Snyder (2009), Bill Hill (2008), Betty Coffrin (2007), Edith Terwilliger (2006), Harold Hackett Sr. (2005), Larry Rennels (2004), Bob & Therese Kincade (2003), Joyce Madigan (2002), Mark Bluhm (2001) and Bill Lair (2000).
For the fourteenth year, the Chamber will recognize the “Small Business of the Year” at the Annual Dinner. This award is designed to honor a small business that has made a significant contribution to the local community and economy. It is intended to recognize a successful and growing business that has achieved its status through ingenuity and hard work.
The criteria for selection of the Small Business of the Year are: (1) member in good standing for the Charleston Area Chamber of Commerce; (2) any for-profit or not-for-profit headquartered in Coles County; (3) in operation at least three years; (4) demonstrated community involvement and contribution; (5) positive customer service relationships and practices; and (5) progressive business growth and performance.
Mooney Motors of Charleston was the recipient of the Small Business of the Year Award in 2005, Porter Auto Body in 2006 and Gilbert, Metzger & Madigan, LLP in 2007, Pro-Mow Lawn Care in 2008, Towne Square Jewelers in 2009, Hutti Chiropractic in 2010, Midas in 2011, Gateway Liquors in 2012, Lifetime Eye Care in 2013, Twice is Nice in 2014, County Office Products in 2015, Bike & Hike in 2016, and What’s Cookin” was given the award last year.
The Volunteer of the Year Award has only been given out seven times over the years. Dr. Tim Camden was honored as the recipient of the award last year.
This award recognizes people who voluntarily give their time and talent to improve the community in such areas as health care, social services, youth or senior activities, the arts, education, governance, community growth and development, community morale, etc.
Nominees can be any individual (18 years or older), couple, family or group who has exhibited exemplary volunteerism through a single act, or a number of acts, that have made our community a better place to live.
Detailed criteria for selection, submission instructions and nomination forms for all of the awards are available at the Chamber office or by calling 345-7041. The forms can also be downloaded from the Chamber website at www.charlestonchamber.com.
Nominations, including any supporting documentation, should be sent to the Charleston Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 77, Charleston, IL 61920 or left in a sealed envelope at the Chamber office (501 Jackson Avenue) by 3 PM on Friday, December 8.
