The Greater West Plains Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards ceremony Thursday at the West Plains Civic Center, a night of socializing and celebrating the achievements of educators, volunteers, businesses, charities and individuals and their efforts in making West Plains a great place to live.
The awards ceremony was sponsored by The Dels Corporation, and emceed by chamber outgoing Chairman Joe Kammerer and incoming Chairman Eric Gibson. Award presenters included Missouri State University-West Plains Chancellor Dr. Dennis Lancaster, West Plains R-7 Director of Communications Lana Snodgras and chamber immediate past Chair John Plummer.
West Plains Elementary teacher Angela Phipps was recognized by the chamber as Educator of the Year. Hibby's Sports Grille was presented this year’s Customer Service Award.
Ken Joplin was made an Honorary Member For Life; Dr. Dennis Lancaster, Eric Gibson and Joe Kammerer were celebrated as Volunteers of the Year; Terry Sanders was named the chamber’s Citizen of the Year; and Ron Grennan received the Lifetime Achievement Award.
DeeDee and Ed Button, founders of The Chaos Closet resource for foster families in the 37th Judicial Circuit, were presented with an award for Nonprofit Organization of the Year. Business of the Year went to West Plains Bank and Trust Company.
Tracy Jo Hollis-Cooper was honored as Humanitarian of the Year, while Crockett Oaks III and Tonya Oaks were presented the City Beautification Award. Plummer, not just a presenter this year, received the Chairman's Award.
As Community Foundation of West Plains President, Eric Gibson also presented four worthy local charities and community service providers with donations to help further their work. They are Senior Age and Ozark Action Head Start, each receiving $2,500; Sleep In Heavenly Peace, $1,000; and The Chaos Closet, $800.
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