Candice Workman - Diplomat of the Year 2020

Rob and Ginny Barnas - Volunteer of the Year 2020

Tim Lower - Home Boss Inspection - Small Business of the Year 2020

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The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce’s 77th Annual Gala saw a new location this year, taking place at and catered by Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope. The elegant gala held an Online Silent Auction during 2021, with proceeds going towards the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation, which supports local schools.

Each year at the Gala, winners are revealed in three categories: Small Business of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and Diplomat of the Year. The winners in these categories all exhibit certain criteria throughout the year in order to be chosen. Prior to the gala, chamber members send in their choices for who they believe should be in the running to receive the win in these categories.

The 2020 Small Business of the Year went to Home Boss Inspection, with owner Tim Lower accepting the award. According to the chamber, “Tim stands out for his sustainability and contribution to the small business community, giving back without hesitation, even providing meals as a sign of appreciation to fellow business owners that work so hard at what they do … Our communities are lucky to have such a strong entrepreneurial spirit and we are so grateful for Tim’s dedication, support, and love that his business shows to everyone they encounter.” Home Boss Inspection began nearly five years ago, and now has locations in Baldwin, Mobile, and Escambia Counties.

There was not one, but two winners for Volunteers of the Year. Rob and Ginny Barnas, owners of Island Air Conditioning and Heating LLC, took the award for 2020. Their business has been serving Baldwin for more than two decades, and the pair can often be found volunteering with events including Turkey Take Out, Share the Beach, numerous local runs, and as fosters for a local animal shelter.

“They not only provide quality customer service through their business, but have selflessly given their time and even their home to many organizations over the years. They are passionate about giving back to their community and the well-being of animals,” a release from the chamber says.

The South Baldwin Chamber Diplomats are a hardworking group of volunteers from the business community who assist in numerous Chamber events. According to the Chamber, the 2020 winner “stepped up to the challenge and hasn’t missed a beat,” even through the pandemic, a hurricane, and uncertainty.

The Chamber awarded Candice Workman as the 2020 Diplomat of the Year. Workman began her career at one of the leading golf courses in the region, where she moved up the ranks to a management position and oversaw two clubhouses. She is sited as increasing sales, resulting in the venue’s national recognition and several awards.

For more information on upcoming chamber events, check out www.southbaldwinchamber.com.