Local businesses and community volunteers will be recognized Thursday, March 5, at the Annual Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce Community Awards Banquet.

This year’s recipients of individual awards:

Citizen of the Year – Bryan and Dawne Trent, owner/operator of Trent Management and Mojo’s Hometown Pizza.

Volunteer of the Year – Graham Brothers Electric owners Chase, Cody and Clay Graham.

Student of the Year – Payton Riddle.

“This year’s business nominees created a very difficult voting choice between so many successful and deserving companies,” said chamber board president Dustin Chapman. “2019 was a very productive year, both for new business growth and for celebrating milestones of long-standing businesses that have made our community so great for decades.

“The individual award winners could not be more deserving of their honors for all of their contributions and efforts toward making Greenbrier such a special place to live. The Chamber of Commerce is so proud to recognize each of these winners for their contributions and celebrate their success.”

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

“Strong work ethic, collaborative teamwork and devotion to the community are just a few of the many qualities Bryan and Dawne Trent possess,” stated their award nomination. “Trent Management’s deep roots in Central Arkansas created an easy transition in 2005 when the young Trent family made Greenbrier a place to call home. When the twins, John and Morgan, began kindergarten, Bryan and Dawne’s presence became a constant sight at Greenbrier Schools. In the past few years, the Trent’s involvement with the Greenbrier Panther Boosters and the Future Farmers of America chapter has been non-stop.” 

Dawne serves as treasurer of the booster club and both are supporters of Greenbrier’s Ag-Science program.

“The Trents took an active role when a longtime pizza restaurant shut its doors a year ago. Providing jobs for the suddenly unemployed and keeping the doors open for a beloved community establishment were utmost concerns for the couple. After quickly coming up with a business plan, the Trents opened Mojo’s Hometown Pizza. Dawne’s creativity and ability to put passion into action produced areas dedicated to two distinctive groups of local citizens. The Military/Veteran Room and the Senior Wall have become both a highlight and a destination in our  community.

“Bryan and Dawne are committed to the support of Renewal Ranch and Project Angel Tree organizations. Greenbrier is fortunate not only to have business owners like the Trents, but also as team players on its roster.”

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR 

“As lifelong community members, the Graham Brothers have been serving Greenbrier and its people for over three decades,” read the award nomination. “Chase, Cody and Clay, along with their families, are constant fixtures in our town. They are always lending a hand, whether it’s setting up lighting at an event or hauling BrierFest attendees around in golf carts.

“Chase has served on the Greenbrier Natural Resources Board for three years. His input and dedication have been invaluable as the City of Greenbrier strives to provide its citizens with places to enhance their quality of life.

“Greenbrier Nazarene benefits from the Grahams’ desire to serve. The brothers are involved in multiple roles. Whenever there is an activity in Greenbrier, it is certain one of the

Graham Brothers will be assisting. Chase, Cody and Clay are assets to our community.”

STUDENT OF THE YEAR

The Student of the Year award includes a $1,000 scholarship from the chamber.

“Payton Riddle is an exceptional young man and a light at Greenbrier High School,” read the award nomination. “He serves as a library aide and is on track to be a highest honor graduate with a 4.02 GPA.”

Payton is a member of multiple clubs and organizations at the high school, including football, FFA, Ambassadors, student council and Purposed. He received All-Conference honors and the Panther Award for Football.

Payton is very involved in church activities and has numerous community service hours.

“Putting all his activities aside, Payton proves on a daily basis that he is an all-around great person and a leader among his peers who wants to serve others above all else. He is a true joy to be around and a friend to everyone he meets.”

BANQUET

The chamber banquet will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 5, at the Greenbrier Junior High Cafetorium. The theme is “A Vision for 2020.” Chase Turner, an author and Greenbrier alum, will be the speaker.

The chamber will announce the business, new business and small business honorees along with the Non-profit of the Year.

The 2020 edition of the Greenbrier City Directory, produced by 501 Advertising and Publishing, will also be unveiled at the banquet. A silent and live auction is also planned.

Tables of eight are available for $320. Individual tickets are $40 each.

For more information, contact the chamber at 501.679.4009 or visit greenbrierchamber.org.