A dozen local business leaders were recognized for their commitment to fostering a thriving business community last week, when the Ponte Vedra Beach Division of the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce presented its annual “Membership Appreciation Awards.”
Held May 25 at the Sawgrass Golf Club, the cocktail reception and awards ceremony honored Ponte Vedra Beach Division members in a variety of categories. Ponte Vedra Recorder Publisher Susan Griffin received the Pat Morgan Outstanding Member Award and Clare Berry of Berry & Co. was recognized with the Jeff Jenkins Community Service Award. Rob Schlinghman of The Plantation at Ponte Vedra was recognized as Board Member of the Year, while Former Executive Director Sandy Kavanaugh, was honored for many years of service to the chamber’s Ponte Vedra Beach Division. Additional awards presented included:
Crushing It!: given to the member that has made the most of his/her chamber membership – Brian Anderson, Fluffy Cuts
Curious Traveler: recognizing the member who attended numerous events throughout the county – Carole Everitt, Colonial Quarter
Pinch Hitter: honoring the member who steps up at the last minute – Carol Maurer, Hilton Garden Inn
Rookie of the Year: given to a new member who has shown great initiative in attending chamber events – Dr. Sharyl Truty, Balanced Physician Care
Master of Social Media: recognizing the member who is most supportive of chamber social media initiatives – Michael Mitchell, ServPro
Dedicated Service: given to the member who never says no and sponsors chamber events – Michelle Nemeth, FirstAtlantic Bank
5 Star Hospitality: given to the member or venue that has gone above and beyond when hosting a Chamber event – Sawgrass Country Club (– Barry McDonald,
The Showman: given to the member who hosted a creative special event – Ilene Thrasher, Arbor Terrace.
