By Heather Knight
Elmore Autauga News
The Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce held its 51st Annual Meeting last night, bringing together members, community leaders, and local elected officials for an evening of celebration and recognition. The event took place at the Marriott Legends in Prattville, kicking off at 6:00 PM with a social hour and silent auction.
Among the distinguished attendees were Mayor Bill Gillespie, Senator Clyde Chambliss, as well as several city council members and county commission representatives. The silent auction featured a large selection of items generously donated by local businesses and community members.
At 7:00 PM, Lisa Miller, the 2023-2024 board chairman, officially opened the meeting. Joe Mathis led the invocation before Miller extended a warm welcome to sponsors and attendees. “We are thankful for every person that has supported the chamber,” said Miller. “Your chamber is only as strong as the members it serves, and we promote with pride the cities we serve.”
The beautifully decorated venue showcased centerpieces created by local artist Barney Hedrick. A special tribute was made to Hedrick and his family in recognition of his contributions to the community. A heartfelt tribute was also given in memory of Councilman Albert Striplin, who passed away last month.
Dinner was served at 7:15 PM, featuring a delicious menu that included a fresh salad, a chicken entrée, and a dessert.
The program resumed at 7:30 PM with Chairman Miller introducing current and previous board members, ambassadors, and local officials in attendance. Special recognition was given to outgoing board members Will Barrett and Annette Funderbunk for their dedicated service.
One of the evening’s highlights was the recognition of the Top 20 Under 40 honorees.
Marquis Forge, founder and CEO of Eleven86 Real Artesian Water, took the stage to announce the recipient of the Industry of the Year award, which was presented to Autauga County Schools.
Lisa Miller then reaffirmed the Chamber’s support of the proposed 2024 Ad Valorem Referendum, stating, “Education is the most important investment. As a board that we fully support the 2024 Ad Valorem Referendum.”
Catherine Porter announced the winners of the Small Business of the Year awards. Nominees included Cloud 9 Aviation, Day Structures, Gillis Construction, Little Peach Pediatric Therapy, Stronghold Construction Group, Joey’s Carwash, Chick-fil-A, and Sunrise and Sheridan.
The Small Business of the Year award for businesses with 1-10 employees was presented to Day Structures, a structural engineering consulting firm serving the Southeast’s architectural and construction community.
Joey’s Carwash, located on Old Farm Lane, won the award in the 11-50 employee category, while Chick-fil-A, represented by owner Daniel Grier, received the Small Business of the Year award in the 51-100 employee category.
The Emerging Business of the Year Award went to Sunrise and Sheridan, a local business providing personalized engraved gifts, trophies, medals, awards, and boutique items. Owners Cass and Whitney Sheridan accepted the award.
“Thank you to all of our small businesses for helping our community grow and thrive,” said Porter as she concluded the award segment.
Robin Davies, Vice Chairman for Membership Services, took the stage to announce the Ambassador of the Year award, which was presented to Morgan Kendrick for her outstanding contributions.
The evening concluded with the recognition of outgoing board members, the introduction of new board members, the announcement of silent auction winners, and closing remarks.
For more information on how to join the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce, please contact them at 334-365-7392 or visit them online at www.prattvillechamber.com.
