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The LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce held its 2025 Chairman’s Gala at the Callaway Conference Center on Friday evening.  The gala featured the election of the Chamber’s 2025 slate of officers, including the new Chairman Summer Deal, along with the annual chamber awards.  Chairman John Westmoreland handed over the gavel to Chair-Elect Deal at the close of the gala.

The following awards were given out at the ceremony:   

SMALL BUSINESSES OF THE YEAR 

The chamber presented awards to four small businesses of the year. The first Small Business of the Year award went to Tiffani Bray Photography. 

Westmoreland said Tiffani Bray Photography has a mission to create timeless images that capture the essence of each client while fostering confidence and self-expression, empowering individuals, celebrating their unique beauty, and helping them see the best version of themselves is what they do best. 

“This business is carving out its unique space through a blend of quality, service, and community involvement,” Westmoreland said.

The second Small Business of the Year was awarded to Angel Care Living Assistance Services. Angel Care won Best of Troup County and a Best of Georgia winner for 2024. 

They specialize in providing high-quality, personalized care and companionship, empowering clients to maintain their independence and age with dignity, which is their foundation as a family business.

“What sets this business apart is their holistic approach to care. They take the time to understand the unique needs of each client and their loved ones, going beyond basic care to provide Angel Care,” Westmoreland said.

The next Small Business of the Year, Tournesol, has built its foundation on providing outstanding customer service while embracing a heartfelt mission to give back to the community it serves.

“Unique to LaGrange, and inspired by the Marquis de Lafayette, this business takes its name from the French word for “sunflower.” It has blossomed into what may very well be the largest general gift shop in our community. Beyond its impressive size, it stands out for its unwavering commitment to contributing to the greater good,” Westmoreland said.

The final Small Business of the Year award went to Wayne Davis Concrete.

Wayne Davis Concrete stays ahead by prioritizing customer service, investing in advanced technology, and offering sustainable solutions to meet the market’s evolving needs, Westmoreland said.

“Even after 53 years as a family-owned and operated business, their marketing strategies remain highly effective, yielding consistent growth—particularly in infrastructure and commercial projects,” Westmoreland said.

LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

The Large Business of the Year award was given to Sheridan Construction.

Sheridan Construction embodies excellence, integrity, and a commitment to quality in every aspect of their work, including earning them First Place in the 2024 Build Georgia Awards for the Oakfuskee Conservation Center, Westmoreland said.

“Their dedication goes beyond construction—they actively invest in community development, workforce training, and education through partnerships with local schools and technical colleges, providing students with valuable resources and hands-on opportunities,” Westmoreland said.

MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR

Manufacturer of the Year was awarded to Kia Georgia.

“It is a great honor to recognize a company that embodies innovation, excellence, and a steadfast commitment to quality. This organization has consistently raised the bar in the automotive industry, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and progress.

With an annual production capacity of 350,000 units, they have produced over 4.6 million vehicles in 15 years of operation in West Point. Their investment in the region exceeds $3.2 billion, including a recent $217 million expansion. Beyond economic impact, they have contributed more than $22 million to initiatives supporting education, workforce development, sustainability, and thriving communities,” Westmoreland said.

NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR

CASA of Troup County (Court Appointed Special Advocates) was awarded non-profit of the year.

CASA embodies the true meaning of advocacy, compassion, and commitment to our community’s most vulnerable, Westmoreland said.

“Their mission is not an easy one. It requires empathy, resilience, and a deep belief in the power of change. Yet, time and again, they rise to the occasion, standing beside these children and families, ensuring their stories are told and their best interests are protected,” Westmoreland said.

A second Non-profit of the Year award was given to the Biblical History Center.

“This unique museum and destination bring the ancient biblical world to life, attracting nearly 20,000 visitors annually and offering a rare experience in a field with only 230 similar attractions nationwide,” Westmoreland said. “In 2019, they faced the brink of closure, and shortly after, the pandemic further tested their resolve. Through innovative leadership and strategic planning, they not only survived but thrived. Today, they deliver exceptional programs, from monthly STEAM initiatives serving 600 students to field trips engaging over 4,000.”

GEORGE BAILEY SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY AWARD

Judge Michael Key was given the new George Bailey Spirit of Community Award. The award is given to someone who not only embodies the good in our community but inspires us in ways that leave a lasting impact.

Key has spent his life ensuring that success is not reserved for a select few, but is attainable for all—inside and outside of the courtroom, Westmoreland said.

“Through his tireless work in trauma-informed care, he has helped build a trauma-informed community—one that provides healing and understanding, even in the ways that may go unnoticed. However, the ripples of this work are undeniable. Families in Troup County will feel the effects of his efforts not just today, but for generations to come,” Westmoreland said.

IDA TARVER JONES VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Shannon Lawson was awarded the Ida Tarver Jones Volunteer of the Year Award. 

“For several years, [Lawson] has been a steadfast and dedicated committee member, contributing invaluable insights and ideas that have elevated our programs. Her commitment to learning and growing is evident in her participation in a neighboring program, where she gains fresh perspectives and ideas to bring back and enrich our own initiatives,” Westmoreland said. “Her dedication goes far beyond this past year. Over the many years she has been involved with the Chamber, she has poured her heart into making programs meaningful and impactful for all participants. She consistently brings energy, positivity, and passion to everything she does, and her efforts have touched countless lives.”

OTTO KORTH DIPLOMAT OF THE YEAR

Michael Holle was named the chamber’s Diplomat of the Year. 

Holle has gone above and beyond in connecting with members, attending business after hours, lending his support and energy to golf tournaments, and even rolling up his sleeves to help clean up after events and programs, Westmoreland said.

RICHARD ENGLISH, JR. LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The 2024 Richard English, Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Mike Wilson.

Wilson played a pivotal role in the growth of the LaGrange Troup County Homeless Coalition, leading it to become a 501(c)(3) organization in 2021 and later serving as its president. Mike led initiatives including funding an emergency shelter for those in crisis and ensuring families remained housed when grants were at risk. In 2020, they envisioned a “one-stop shop” to provide transitional housing, services, and shelter. Thanks to their determination, this vision became a reality in 2023, with a facility already serving 400 individuals, said Troup County Board of Commissioners Chairman Patrick Crews.

“Wilson is an extraordinary leader whose vision and dedication have transformed the fight against homelessness in our community,” Crews said.

JANE FRYER AWARD

The Jane Award was given to the LaGrange Development Authority.

LDA has been instrumental in transforming our community into a vibrant hub of opportunity and progress. Their vision and dedication have driven some of the most impactful initiatives in our region, positioning LaGrange and Troup County as leaders in global commerce and industry, Westmoreland said.

“Their work has spurred the development of critical projects that support local industries while attracting innovation and investment for projects new to the community. These efforts have not only strengthened the local economy but have also created new opportunities for businesses and residents, paving the way for sustained growth,” Westmoreland said.

CHAIRMAN’S AWARD

April Bartley was given the 2024 Chairman’s Award. 

“[Bartley] is someone who not only shows up but leads by example. Whether it’s spearheading initiatives, supporting programs, or ensuring every detail is covered, she brings an unparalleled commitment and energy. She shows up to early morning meetings and she stays for late evening programs, ensuring that her commitments are fulfilled,” Westmoreland said.