ROCKWALL, TX (Feb. 28, 2025) The Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce wrapped up its 95th year with a celebratory awards banquet and casino night Feb. 27, honoring local leaders and businesses. Presented by Frost Bank, the annual meeting showcased a dazzling display of sequins and sneakers, recognitions and awards at AmeriSports, Rockwall’s indoor multi-sport and event facility.
“I want to take a moment to thank the true jackpot of our community – our incredible partners, dedicated volunteers, outstanding board members and talented team,” said Darby Nielsen, IOM, Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO. “We’re betting on big success as we recognize our award winners – congratulations! Your hard work, dedication and leadership have stacked the deck in favor of a stronger business community.”
In addtion to presenting sponsor Frost Bank, the Chamber recognized Venue Sponsor AmeriSports, PhotoBooth Sponsor Blo Blow Dry Bar, Opening Act Sponsor Cavender’s Boot City, Ace in the Hold Awards Sponsor American National Bank, Encore Entertainment Sponsor Republic Services, Dealers Choice Jackpot Sponsor Independent Financial, Decor Sponsors Linebarger Attorneys At Law, HomeBank Texas, and Sugar Kissed Balloons, Media Sponsor Blue Ribbon News, Celebrate Media Group, and City LifeStyle Allen-Rockwall-Plano.
The event opened with Heath Hawk Theatre students; an invocation by County Commissioner Dana Macalik; welcoming remarks from outgoing chairman Shane Hollas of MAACO; and messages from Darby Neilsen, Beth Johnson with Frost Bank, and incoming chair Lesli Y. Johnson with Rest Haven. Outgoing board members were recognized, including Rick Bernas, Republic Services; Melaney Loar, Regal Realtors; Ben Northcutt, Milestone Home Services Co.; and Dr. John “JJ” Villarreal, Rockwall ISD Superintendent.
Incoming board members include Rob McAngus, Mueller Family Law Group; Lauren Podina, Orthopaedic Specialists of Dallas; and Steve Torres, The Traveling Toro.
The winners of this year’s Chamber Partner Business Impact Awards include:
Chamber Partner of the Year
Based off their involvement and support of critical community issues, enhancing the economy of the Rockwall area through the successful and profitable operation of their organization, and exhibiting outstanding community support.
HomeBank Texas
Chairman’s Award
Given by the Chairman of the Board of Diretors, this award recognizes an organization or individual who have put forth significant contribution and efforts in their work, community, and the Chamber. The Chairman’s Award recognizes outstanding leadership in the Chamber and beyond.
Sylvia Sotello Kidd
Best Practices in Community Involvement and Impact
This award showcases a company that demonstrates a consistent commitment to community involvement and philanthropy as a part of their core business values.
Cavender Nissan
Nominees:
Fresh by Brookshire’s
Frost Bank
Kevin Hadawi- Wells Fargo Advisors
Texas Health Hospital-Rockwall
Excellence in Customer Focus
This award showcases a company whose customer service ability has transceded to the masses. Their reputation for excllet customer focus has been experienced and publicized by many. This positive focus has resulted in an increase in client satisfaction, client retention and referrals.
T & D Construction
Nominees:
Blue Ribbon News
Guaranty Bank & Trust
Minuteman Press Rockwall
Samee’s Pizza Getti
Emerging Business of the Year
This award recognizes a Chamber Partner who has made a distinct impact in the business community within their first 12-18 months of partnering with the Chamber. They have demonstrated a capacity for creativity, innovation and experienced growth. This company has shown and embraced true Chamber spirit and an overall contribution to the community.
Fate Roofing
Nominees:
Agua De Vida Alkaline- Water
Freshly Clean
Inspire Benefits
Total Garage Solutions
Small Business Partner of the Year
This company is recognized for integrating excellence and commitment to quality as a core value and point of reference into their business structure. The award recognizes participation in the community, Chamber driven initiatives, a proven track record, growth and sustainability and a commitment to quality.
Brittex Bubbles, Commercial Cleaning & Janitorial
Nominees:
Blo Blow Dry Bar Rockwall
Hanby Insurance
Rockwall Heath Counseling
The Traveling TORO
Medium Size Business Partner of the Year
This award recognizes a mid-size business which has maintained stability over its contributions during the past year to employees and the community. This Chamber partner has an excellent reputation has been a strong advocate to the community and the Chamber and is recognized for integrating excellence and commitment to quality into their business structure.
My Computer Guy
Nominees:
Doc’s Roofing
Lifetime Cos.
Royse City Emergency Hospital
Shenaniganz
Large Partner Organization of the Year
This award honors an organization that has made a significant impact on our area and within the Chamber through leadership, marketing and strategic alliance and contributions. This award recognizes an organization that has demonstrated success and has displayed overall community development for the greater Rockwall area.
American National Bank of Texas
Nominees:
Atmos Energy
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Lake Pointe
Rockwall Economic Development Corporation
Trend HR
Ambassador of the Year
This award was voted on by their peers. The award recognizes an outstanding individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to the Chamber. This award honors an ambassador who has gone above and beyond in supporting Chamber initiatives, engaging with local businesses, and fostering meaningful connections within the community.
Steve Torres, The Traveling TORO
Throughout the ceremony, several businesses were recognized for milestone partner anniversaries, including Lakeside Bank with 50 years, and Rockwall Mini Storage/Boat & RV Storage and Warehouse-Pro for 40 years.
Story and photos by Blue Ribbon News/BRN Media. Here are a few random pics from the night from our photo gallery!
Local leaders, businesses hit the jackpot at Rockwall Chamber’s annual awards banquet added by Editor on
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