HONORS Banquet
Honoring Outstanding Retail and Service
Each fall, the Chamber of Commerce presents HONORS, a one-of-a-kind event dedicated to recognizing the everyday individuals who create extraordinary experiences in our community. From retail clerks and restaurant servers to first responders, public workers, and hospitality staff, this evening shines a spotlight on the people whose dedication keeps Baker County moving.
HONORS 2026: Baker's Dozen Awards
1) Gold Rush Go-Getter (Restaurant) — For servers who consistently go above and beyond in their service.
2) Kitchen Trailblazer (Restaurant) — Recognizing cooks or dish staff who keep kitchens running in any conditions.
3) Main Street Maven (Retail) — For retail pros with deep product knowledge and genuine customer connections.
4) Display Dynamo (Retail) — Celebrating those whose merchandising skills make any product shine.
5) Field & Fork Champion (Agriculture) — Honoring those in ag who show grit, care, and commitment to the land.
6) Everyday Hero (First Responder) — For EMTs, firefighters, police or dispatchers showing courage and compassion.
7) Calm in the Storm (Emergency Services) — Celebrating steady leadership during urgent or dangerous situations.
8) Civic Steward (Government/Public Service)— Honoring public employees who keep local systems moving with heart.
9) Legacy Lantern (Public Service & Impact)— For those whose contributions—past or present—continue to light the way in our community, especially in roles that are underfunded, unsung, or recently underappreciated.
10) Sunshine Spirit (Wildcard/Any Sector) — For anyone, in any job, who brightens their team’s day and uplifts morale.
11) Shear Genius (Hairdresser/Stylist) — For stylists who craft confidence by listening, creating, and transforming.
12) Wrench & Resolve (Mechanic/Auto Service) — Honoring mechanics who keep our community rolling safely with skill and integrity.
13) Rolling Spirit (Mobile Vendor) — Celebrating mobile entrepreneurs who energize streets and events with flair and personal touch.
Nominations are submitted by businesses and community members. Winners are selected through public voting and honored at a high-energy fall banquet full of laughter, food, and local pride.
"My dad is one of 13 kids, and growing up they always called themselves the Baker's Dozen. That stuck with me, and now it's what this event is all about: recognizing the hardworking people who hold our community together." - Christopher Hobson, Executive Director
Celebrating the people who power Baker County
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