By Stephen Smoot
It started with the slightest of hiccups as the musical accompaniment for the evening found himself “in the middle of the holler somewhere,” but ended on notes of harmony as all enjoyed the music from Jonathan Zinn and food prepared by Deans Gap Farms and also Wild Yarrow.
Attendees gathered at Thorn Spring Park, a facility alive and welcoming throughout the summer. In the cool shade of the valley walls, pleasant temperatures allowed for an enjoyable experience for all.
Kristen Dingess, chair of the board for the Pendleton County Chamber of Commerce welcomed all. She explained that the leadership had gone through a transition during the summer with the departure of Elizabeth Scott, executive director. Dingess then praised her colleagues on what she called “a very working board.”
Dingess explained some changes that chamber members should expect in the coming months, starting with a new executive director. The search continues as they hone in on a leader to continue the recent successes of the organization.
They also offered a QR code through which members could communicate ideas.
Another change announced was the intention to move the Christmas celebration from a community building centered event back to Main Street in Franklin. Dingess also shared what the chamber intended to keep doing, such as its popular treasure hunt for the Treasure Mountain Festival.
She asked for suggestions “to make it worth your money” and once again thanked her “really great board.”
Over 60 enjoyed the dinner and fellowship. After giving away 12 floral arrangements as door prizes, the awards portion of the dinner took place.
Chelsey Simmons, who joined the chamber board as well, received the Young Professional of the Year Award. Awardees under the age of 45 made their mark through “outstanding performance in leadership, team building, and community networking.” Simmons parleyed her success in pageantry with efforts to introduce dental health to children statewide.
Next the chamber honored Historic McCoy House Bed and Breakfast as the small business of the year. After many months of dedicated work, Jared and Katie VanMeter welcomed guests to stay for the first time this year. They also use the mansion for community events year round to help add to the many charms Pendleton County has to offer.
Experience Learning took home the honor for non profit of the year. This rewards an organization “that is providing outstanding service through meeting community needs.”
Nicole Marsh earned the Outstanding Volunteer Award for her constant work supporting multiple organizations. The award goes to an individual who is “devoted to the community and has served tirelessly for the betterment of all.”
The chamber confers its Cornerstone Award as its most significant honor granted to a business or organization. Pendleton Senior and Family Services, after a difficult year in which they battled both funding cuts and wicked weather, earned the Cornerstone Award for 2025. “Their business and employee practices,” says the Chamber “are geared towards involvement and increasing not only their own profitability, but also the quality of life and economic well-being of the community.
Finally, Jennifer Taylor-Ide received the highest honor given to an individual in the community. The Carole Hartman Memorial Award goes to the individual who best exemplifies the example set by Hartman in her career of service to the Pendleton County community. According to the chamber “this award goes to an upstanding individual who people look to for guidance. They are known for taking charge in a way that lifts others up and encourages team morale.”
