Milledgeville-Baldwin Chamber celebrates community excellence

  • The Milledgeville-Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce honored the small businesses nomniated for Small Business of the Year at its annual gala. ServPro of Baldwin, Jones, & Putnam Counties was named the Small Business of the Year. CONTRIBUTED
    The Milledgeville-Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce honored the small businesses nomniated for Small Business of the Year at its annual gala. ServPro of Baldwin, Jones, & Putnam Counties was named the Small Business of the Year. CONTRIBUTED

    The Milledgeville-Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Awards Dinner & Gala on Saturday, June 14, in the Magnolia Ballroom on Georgia College & State University’s campus. Nearly 200 guests gathered to celebrate local business leaders, educators, and community members that make a difference in the community.

    Presented by Century Bank & Trust, this year’s event was an evening of recognition, appreciation, and celebration.

    “The Annual Awards Dinner & Gala is our opportunity to shine a light on the people and businesses that help Milledgeville-Baldwin County grow and thrive,” said Kara Lassiter, president & CEO of the Chamber. “It’s a night to pause and recognize the hard work, heart, and impact that’s happening all around us.”

    Throughout the evening, the Chamber recognized the top four finalists for Small Business of the Year, honoring their excellence in business practices, customer service, and community involvement:

    • 1-800WaterDamageofCentral Georgia

    • Fickling&Co.LakeCountry

    • NeedaNerd

    • ServProofBaldwin,Jones& Putnam Counties ServPro of Baldwin, Jones & Putnam Counties was named the 2024-25 Small Business of the Year, earning the top honor for its strong commitment to community engagement and continued business growth.

    Century Bank & Trust was awarded Large Business of the Year, recognized for its longtime leadership, community investment, and ongoing contributions to economic development in Milledgeville-Baldwin County.

    Other award highlights from the evening included:

    • Ambassador of the Year: Holly Blenk from Century Bank & Trust, recognized for her outstanding volunteer service and support of Chamber initiatives.

    • Making a Difference in Milledgeville Award: Lockerly Arboretum, recognized for its ongoing efforts to preserve natural beauty, promote environmental education, and enrich the quality of life in our community.

    • Rising Star Award:

    Chicken Salad Chick, honored for its growth, exceptional customer experience, and meaningful engagement in the Milledgeville-Baldwin County community.

    The Chamber also recognized the Teachers of the Year from each of the local schools, honoring their dedication to education and student success.

    The Chamber extended sincere thanks to presenting sponsor Century Bank & Trust, Georgia College & State University for the venue, The Briary for the floral arrangements, Marketing USA for the videos and Lifescapes Photography for capturing the evening’s memorable moments.

    For more information about the Chamber awards or other Chamber programs, contact Kara Lassiter at 478-453-9311 or klassiter@milledgevillega. com.

    — Contributed