Several local businesses and individuals were recognized Saturday night at the Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce’s 76th annual Leadership Awards and Installation Banquet, held at Whiting Field’s Sikes Hall. The awards honor individuals and businesses that have contributed to the betterment of the community and made a difference in the past year. Winners are decided by nominations and feedback from ¬chamber members. Leadership Santa Rosa Class 24 was the winner of the Community Achievement award for their work with the Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast. Volunteer of the Year went to Lee and Darlene Parker and the Business of the Year winner was The Penton House ¬Salon & Day Spa. Sheila Harris was honored as Emerging Leader of the Year and Steve Williams was selected as Community Leader of the Year. Wal-Mart Supercenter won the Industry of the Year Award. Woman of the Year went to Sharon Holley and Man of the year to Bubba Drinkard. Although Drinkard wasn’t in attendance at the banquet, Chamber President Tracy Allen called his phone and the entire room left a voicemail saying “Congratulations!” The Hall of Fame award went to Local Yokel owner, Claude Duvall. Lori Aprilliano, public affairs officer at Naval Air Station Whiting Field was the winner of The Fred Hunter Spirit of Santa Rosa award and the President’s Award went to Kristal Kelley. For a special award this year, the first Frank Gossett Ambassadorship Award went to Frank Gossett.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Local leaders honored at banquet