Leesburg Partnership recognizes outstanding community members at annual awards dinner
LEESBURG — The Leesburg Partnership presented their 2020-2021 awards on Wednesday evening.
At the partnership's annual dinner, the nonprofit honored outstanding community members for their contributions over the past year.
“Our awards are for our downtown merchants, local community members, business members and it’s just a way of giving them appreciation for all they have done,” Leesburg Partnership Executive Director Joanie Smalley said. “We’d like to thank the residents for their continued support of the Partnership and look forward to a new, exciting year.”
From 2019:The Leesburg Partnership is celebrating 25 years
On Tap this weekend:Maze craze and other fall festivals hit Lake County
Here's a look at this year's award recipients.
Merchant of the Year: Prominent Fox, owned by Leigh Ann Berry
“This business savvy merchant has made downtown Leesburg home with her foxy self and boutique,” Partnership president Lena Williams said. “Where as many merchants over the last year were closing their doors, this one thrived and even expanded into a second location.”
Outstanding Volunteer of the Year: Kim Higgins
“If you attend any event in Leesburg, you will recognize this award winner,” Williams said. “She can be seen doing breakdowns, running concessions and has been a great friend of the Partnership for over 15 years. There is not an event or organization in Leesburg that she has not given her heart to.”
Outstanding Government Employee of the Year: Mike Thornton, the City of Leesburg's purchasing manager
"Every organization has this behind-the-scenes staff, the employee that ensures that everyone does their job efficiently and effectively, but rarely is recognized for their importance and contributions,” Partnership vice-president Bert Boliek said. “Mike shines the most the darkest of times in our community, like the aftermath of Hurricane Irma and during the COVID pandemic. It’s not often that the purchasing guy gets recognized but Mike’s efforts are key for our city stay on track.”
Outstanding Community Partner: LakeFront TV, Leesburg's public access channel
“For over 16 years, they have shined a spotlight on our community by bringing together public affairs and government issues with education, health, sports and the arts,” Boliek said. Operation right here in Leesburg, they create entertaining and informing shows that reach well over 200,000 homes. You will see them at every event with cameras rolling, but tonight, all eyes are on them.”
Outstanding Team Player: Tyler Brandeburg, the Leesburg Lightning's president
“His hard work and dedication to our community earned him a spot in Lake Sumter Style Magazine’s 40 under 40 for young professionals,” Williams said. “He stepped into the roll as president of the Leesburg Lightning, making him the youngest president in the league.”
Outstanding Business of the Year: Lassiter Ware, an insurance agency
“We are recognizing this business who has put their community first,” Boliek said. “With a top notch team of professionals, they provide advanced resources and solutions to their clients.”
Outstanding Community Service: Pastor John Christian and the Christian Worship Center
“Twenty-one years ago, a local ministry started with an empty building an a vision,” Boliek said. “The ministry and the vision grew. Today they have added much to our community through their various additional ministries.”
Outstanding Community Spirit: Mystic Ice Cream
“Community spirit is the willingness and desire to participate in activities that promote our community,” Williams said. "Early this year, they expanded into our quaint downtown on Main Street and immediately they jumped right in with their whole hearts.”
Outstanding Organization: Lake 100, a member organization focused on economic development
“They are committed to driving our community in economic development,” Boliek said. “They go above and beyond by providing information and education, guidance and leadership to our citizens, public agencies and businesses.”
Outstanding Revitalization Project: Beacon College
“It’s not easy to bring new life to our quiet, little downtown, but this organization has revitalizing the east end of our Main Street and beyond,” Boliek said. “They are committed to the success of their students and have created a beautiful campus for them in our downtown area. They have made it a point to save and transform the original structures.”
2021 Presidents Award: Maria Stefanovic, the Executive Director of the Leesburg Center for the Arts
“This year’s reception is a stranger to no one in downtown Leesburg,” Williams said. “I turn to her for advice and value her option in every way. I see her making a difference in every way. She genuinely cares about our community. ”
Greg Padgett Citizen of the Year Award: Mike Metheny, Pastor of Church of the Lakes
“This is the most prestigious award given at the Partnership,” Williams said. “Greg Padgett cared about the community and went the extra mile and this award goes to someone who represents that. Pastor Mike Metheny leads the Church of the Lakes with a philosophy and mission of making a difference in our community.”