Chamber banquet dishes out fun and awards

AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR

Patti Whitney accepts the Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce’s Ambassador of the Year award at the Western Gala annual awards banquet Thursday night, April 29. Ambassador Chair Ana Cosino (left) presents the award with Chamber President YoLanda Fultz (right).

RETIRING DIRECTORS

Kathy Baldonbino (left) is recognized by Chamber President YoLanda Fultz (right) for giving her talents and time to help guide the Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce the past three or more years. Also recognized was Theresa Clark (not pictured).

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR 

Josh Fultz (center) accepts the Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year award. Fultz was nominated because of his dedication to the community. As a child he collected funds for Jerrys’ Kids and was very involved with the Navasota Theatre Alliance. In adulthood served on the Chamber of Commerce Board, is currently a Navasota City Councilmember and was emcee for the Annual Christmas Parade. Also pictured, Chamber Ambassador Chair Ana Cosino and Chamber Executive Director Johnny McNally.

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD

Helping Hands of Grimes County is awarded the 2020 Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award. John Lookadoo, Helping Hands member, receives the award from Chamber Executive Director Johnny McNally and Chamber Ambassador Chair Ana Cosino. According to the nomination, the organization “built two homes for Grimes County families during 2020. Families that had no other option but to live without major necessities. This group built two homes with only volunteers and donors during a pandemic.”

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

Jacolby Stokes (right) receives the Employee of the Year award from Chamber Ambassador Chair Ana Cosino. Stokes is employed by Sterling Auto Group of Navasota. According to the nomination, “he is a hometown success, graduate of Navasota High School. Stokes has been named Grimes County’s Salesperson of the Year for several years.” Many times, the employee of the year is nominated by their employer; but this year’s recipient was nominated by a customer.