Golden globes weren’t the only awards being given out this weekend.
The red carpet was rolled out for the nominees and winners of Oxford Chamber of Commerce’s ‘First Annual ‘Red Carpet? Chamber Appreciation and Community Dinner and Awards Gala? at Oxford High School on Saturday, Jan. 15.
For three hours, the chamber helped celebrate the people and businesses who contributed greatly to Oxford over the past year. Winners were named in eight categories.
Citizen of the Year: Joe Young. He seems to be always on the job and he goes above and beyond his job as the Oxford village manager, helping all the organizations in town. He is also a member of the Kiwanis.
New Business of the Year: ‘Wiches. One word, Patrick. He gives back to the community in so many ways. He’s not just in Oxford to do business, he’s in business to serve Oxford.
Educator of the Year: Kindergarten teacher Renee Green. She is a wonderful teacher. Her commitment to her students is obvious and her communication with their parents about where the children stand is much appreciated. She encourages parental involvement to learn. My daughter has made huge strides since beginning Mrs. Green’s class in the fall. I am so impressed with the level of knowledge that my five-year-old has picked up in so short a time.
Excellence in Dining: Victoria’s Delights: Reasonably priced food in a cozy, upscale atmosphere with candles, linen napkins and fresh flowers. She buys local, cooks seasonally and recycles.
Going Green: Genisys Credit Union. They continue to search for ways to be eco-friendly. One way they are doing this is by their printing partnership with EGT group.
Non-Profit Achievement: Oxford/Orion FISH. For 37 years, this organization has devoted itself to helping the needy in Oxford, Orion and Addison. Oxford/Orion FISH provides monthly food for over 150 households, 85 of them in Oxford Village and Township alone. Emergency financial assistance with rent, utilities and prescription are also available. When FISH alone cannot solve the problem, the volunteers are well trained to help individuals find additional assistance with other government and local agencies. Oxford/Orion FISH, through community donations, also provides backpacks stuffed with schools supplies each fall, Christmas gifts for area children and holiday dinner baskets.
Outstanding Community Service: Anna Taylor (Pink and Charlies). As a fairly new business owner to downtown Oxford, she has not only looked to develop a successful business of her own, but also has helped increase the success of other Oxford businesses as well. Her dedication and commitment to create the Girlfriend Walk has generated great excitement for ladies to come downtown and experience the great services that are offered. She is also extremely committed to making Oxford a destination point and a pedestrian friendly city by working with the DDA on various committees. She is a pleasure to work with and a model for others to follow.
Healthcare Professional of the Year: Dr. Steven Hartz. He is patient, kind and a very caring doctor to every one of his patients.