Hometown Hero nominees: Front row: Theresa Kightlinger and William Salyer. Back row: Carrie Vogel-Krachie, John Kightlinger, Bryan Tasior, Corey Baird and Erin Clifton.

by Tina Cole-Mullins, photos by DigitalCrumbs Photography

The Stockbridge Area Chamber of Commerce recognized and honored local business owners, non-profit groups and local citizens for their positive impact on the community during a networking breakfast at Cravingz in downtown Stockbridge, May 8.

Smiles and applause filled the room when nominees were introduced and the youngest, William Salyer, was awarded the 2019 Hometown Hero award for his kindness and generosity toward a handicapped student.

Smiles and applause filled the room as nominees were introduced and the youngest, William Salyer, was awarded the 2019 Hometown Hero award for his kindness and generosity toward a handicapped student.

Throughout the month of April, the Chamber collected and evaluated nominations for its annual Hometown Heroes award. Two Stockbridge High School teachers were among the nominees: Corey Baird for his “being there for his students no matter what” and Bryan Tasior for his “dedication to the Stockbridge FIRST robotics team Panther Powered.”

Local citizens nominated Theresa and John Kightlinger for “having done so much to help better the town” and Carrie Vogel-Krachie for her efforts in “helping to organize and implement ideas to help improve the community.” Erin Clifton not only introduced the nominees but was nominated for “her deep love for the community.”

“Hearing the description of this young man’s kindness brought tears to my eyes,” Molly Howlett, attendee and village president, said.

Front row: Tina Cole-Mullins, Jen McClure, Geri Uihlein, Shannon Sedam, Mandy Yeomans Urquhart, Judi Cook. Back row: Mike and Wendy Frye-Henderson, Kate Bancroft, Luci Stoffer, Becky Muraf and Jodelle Sparks

Geri Uihlein of the Stockbridge area Chamber of Commerce and Police Chief Johnnie Torres congratulate Hometown Hero nominee Bryan Tasior.

Cravingz Coffee shop bustled at 7:30 a.m. as local area residents arrived for a Community Networking Breakfast, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, Wednesday, May 8.

Molly Howlett, back left, looks on as Luci Stoffer takes notes.

Erin Clifton announces the “Hometown Hero” nominees.

Luci Stoffer pauses to enjoy the moment.

Geri Uihlein announces Hometown Hero nominee Erin Clifton.

Geri Uihlein, Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce member and organizer of the event, puts finishing touches on the breakfast.

Chamber members enjoy the event. L-R: Luci Stoffer, Geri Uihlein, Deborah Winnie, James Clark-Swalla and Erin Clifton.