McDowell Chamber of Commerce holds annual gala, awarding top businesses, leaders
On Friday, April 24, the McDowell Chamber of Commerce held its 69th Annual Gala.
The event, held at the Beam Celebration Center, was billed as “Where Business Meets the Heart of McDowell.”
The evening of networking, food and drinks celebrated “the outstanding individuals and businesses that make our community thrive.”
Kim Effler, president and CEO of the McDowell Chamber, welcomed all those who were there at the gala.
On Friday, April 24, the McDowell Chamber of Commerce held its 69th Annual Gala. The event, held at the Beam Celebration Center, was billed as “Where Business Meets the Heart of McDowell.” (PHOTO BY SARAH SIAK)
The award for New Business of the Year was presented to SHINE Support Services. Taylor Pittman, owner and CEO of SHINE, accepted the award. Based in Marion, SHINE Support Services offers a range of mental health and care solutions for individuals, families and organizations.
Kim Effler, president and CEO of the McDowell Chamber, welcomes all those who were there at the gala.
The Employer of the Year Award was presented to Anwer Gillani, founder of Samir Enterprises, LLC. Founded more than 30 years ago, Samir Enterprises owns and operates a chain of convenience stores. Gillani has given back to his community through events such as free Thanksgiving meals.
The Spark Plug Award was presented to Alyssa Hughes with Barefoot Baby Clothing Co. and the Barefoot Baby Foundation. She was recognized for her community involvement, including planning activities with the McDowell Trails Association and the Rotary Club of Marion, and hosting a Halloween children’s party and a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration.
The Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award was given to Stephanie Evans. Robin Nicholson with Duke Energy made the announcement. The award is given to an individual or organization “who has shown exemplary community involvement and serves as a catalyst for other community involvement as well.” Evans was recognized for her community involvement on the boards for Mission Ministries Alliance and the Chamber of Commerce, along with the Board of Realtors.
Taylor Pittman, owner and CEO of SHINE Support Services, accepts the award for New Business of the Year, which was presented by Stephanie Swepson Twitty.
Finally, Effler announced the recipient of the Chamber’s Life Achievement Award: Will Kehler, director of McDowell County Emergency Services.
In 2007, Kehler was appointed director of McDowell Emergency Medical Services, where he led the county’s ambulance service and advanced pre-hospital care programs. In 2014, Kehler was appointed McDowell County Emergency Services director, assuming leadership of the county’s integrated emergency response system. Kehler plans to retire Oct. 30, according to a previous story by The McDowell News.
The Employer of the Year Award was presented to Anwer Gillani, founder of Samir Enterprises LLC.
Kehler could not attend the Chamber gala. EMS Deputy Director Adrienne Rivera Jones accepted the award on his behalf.
“Our Annual Gala was truly a dream come true,” reads a statement from the Chamber. “From the energy in the room … to the stories shared … to the people who showed up in such a meaningful way — it was a powerful reminder of what makes this community so special. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped bring this evening to life — our board, our team, our partners and every single person who attended and celebrated alongside us. You are the heart of this work.”
The Spark Plug Award was presented to Alyssa Hughes with Barefoot Baby Clothing Co. and the Barefoot Baby Foundation.
The Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award was given to Stephanie Evans. Robin Nicholson with Duke Energy made the announcement.
