The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce is kicking off a new decade with new leadership.
Courtney Paat officially became the 2020 Chairman of the Board on Feb. 6 when 2019 Chair Karen Kerr passed her the ceremonial gavel onstage during the chamber’s annual gala. Though the “Roaring 20s” theme was very much rooted in the past, Paat spoke of a forward-thinking future — “reimagining” the way the chamber engages with local businesses and how it can make a greater impact in the community.
In addition to Paat’s big promotion, the chamber’s new board of directors was also recognized that evening and sworn in onstage by Mayor Rick Lott.
The winners of the 2020 Best of Plant City Awards were revealed at the gala and almost all were there to accept their plaques. That night’s biggest winners were Roots Tap Room and Wine Bar, which won three awards (including owner Brandon Snyder’s “Entrepreneur of the Year” win), and Krazy Kup, which won two awards. The Chamber also gave out two special awards for the event: the Visionary Award to City Manager Bill McDaniel and the Chairman’s Award to Wesley Joyner.
2020 BEST OF PLANT CITY WINNERS
Best Community Service: Krazy Kup
Best Customer Service: Tennessee Jane Boutique
Best Community Event: Praise in the Park (Krazy Kup)
Best Health and Wellness: South Florida Baptist Hospital
Employer of the Year: Plant City Family YMCA
Nonprofit of the Year: United Food Bank of Plant City
Entrepreneur of the Year: Brandon Snyder
Best New Business: Roots Tap Room and Wine Bar
Small Business of the Year: RAOK Boutique
Business of the Year: Fred’s Market
Rising Leader Award: Steve Hollenkamp
Downtown Enrichment Award: Roots Tap Room and Wine Bar
Economic Development Award: Central Florida Development
Spirit of the Chamber Award: Lisa Rhodes
Visionary Award: Bill McDaniel
Chairman’s Award: Wesley Joyner