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Diane Thomas, center, of PostNet Chelsea is presented with the Business of the Year Award at the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce’s Diamond Awards luncheon on Dec. 6 from Jackie Gardner, left, and Kevin Morris with the Chamber. (REPORTER PHOTOS/STEPHEN DAWKINS)

Non-Profit of the Year: Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging

New Business of the Year: Whiskers & Wags Pet Boutique

Citizen of the Year: Vicki Everett

Ambassador of the Year: Jane Ann Mueller

COLUMBIANA – Outstanding businesses and individuals were recognized on Thursday, Dec. 6, at the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce’s annual Diamond Awards luncheon.

The luncheon was held at Douglas Manor.

Award winners and nominees included:

• Non-Profit of the Year was Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging. “Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging, also known as M4A, helps all individuals access information, assistance and resources that will empower them to self-advocate, live independently and enjoy the highest quality of life,” said Keyla Handley with the Chamber. Other nominees were Family Connection Inc., Kidz Outdoors, Shelby County Education Foundation and What Would Bob Do?
• Business of the Year was PostNet Chelsea. “PostNet in Chelsea is owned by Gene and Diane Thomas, they have been faithful members of the South Shelby Chamber and received the Community Involvement Award at their company’s recent national conference,” Handley said. Other nominees were ServPro of Westover, Shelby County Reporter and Skiers Marine.
• New Business of the Year was Whiskers & Wags Pet Boutique. “This great new addition to Chelsea is the right place to go shopping for your fur babies,” Handley said. “From healthy foods and treats to pet toys and boutique clothes for your animals they are ready to help.” The Farm Stand was also nominated.
• Public Servant of the Year was Bridgette Jordan-Smith. “Bridgette is known for her community service and all she does for the city of Vincent and Shelby County,” Handley said. Other nominees were Chris George, Susan Lane and Casey Morris.
• Ambassador of the Year was Jane Ann Mueller, and Citizen of the Year was Vicki Everett. “Vicki is not only a great small business owner, she is also extremely active in the Chamber of Commerce and is always willing to lend a helping hand when needed,” Handley said.

Also at the luncheon, Chamber members learned from Board Chairwoman Jackie Gardner about the organization combining with the Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce to form the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce, effective at the first of the year.

“As you all know over the past year, a multi-disciplinary group of leaders from both chamber boards has met to create a forward-thinking organization for the businesses of Shelby County,” Gardner said. “What began as a conversation and investigation has turned into a transformational opportunity for Shelby County.”

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