The Dayton Chamber of Commerce rolled out the red carpet on Feb. 8 for its Twilight Gala, an annual awards ceremony designed to shine a light on the remarkable achievements within the Dayton, Texas, business community.
Among the distinguished recipients was Susan Simmons, who throughout her life has shown an unwavering dedication to the Dayton community. She was recognized with a Hall of Fame Award from the Chamber.
Referencing the nomination letter that was submitted for Simmons, Chamber CEO Sean Stockard, who is in his first year as head of the Chamber, said Simmons’ dedication to volunteerism is unmatched. Her influence stretches from her work with the Dayton Historical Society and the Dayton Police and Fire Museum to her hands-on involvement in organizing community clean-up events and fundraisers.
“She never hesitates to give her time or money toward these efforts. She is a chamber ambassador and can be seen helping to serve food, clean up tables, pass out literature, or do whatever is asked of her at the monthly lunches. She never hesitates to serve the chamber in any way she can, even though she doesn’t actually have a business in Dayton,” Stockard said. “As a private citizen, she gives more to Dayton than anyone could imagine. She spearheads the twice yearly cleanup of downtown Dayton, providing garbage bags, gloves and water to participants. She arranges the Spring Fling and the fall trash pickup. She continues to bring new ideas to help beautify Dayton and draw people to come here, spend money and even live here. Nobody is more deserving of the Volunteer Award than this person.”
For the second year in a row, Bear Plumbing clinched the award of Service Business of the Year. Its owners – Jimmy and Samantha Cullars – also scooped up a second award for Volunteer of the Year.
“From volunteering for kids, sports, participating in career day and other school functions, donating to organizations and individuals of Liberty County, doing service work for free at times to help people in the community, they exemplify what community is and do it while running a full-time business and raising five kids,” said Sherri Schmidt, Chamber Board Secretary. “The community is so blessed to have a team like these two people.”
John Gable, a co-owner of Jelly IT, was named Ambassador of the Year. Gabrielle Keene, owner of August Blush Boutique, was recognized as an outgoing board member. Her boutique was also selected as Retail Business of the Year.
For more information on joining the Dayton Chamber, call 936-257-2393.
