The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce's mission is to support local businesses and enhance the overall quality of life in the region, and each year, the Chamber recognizes individuals and local businesses who contribute to that quality of life. The 2025 Awards Ceremony, held Feb. 5 at Park Place in Macomb, showcased ambassadors, outgoing leaders and community members and businesses for making a difference.
Business of the Year: 2Dye4 Hair and Co., owner and operator Gabrielle Dye-Murphy Business of the Year criteria include demonstrating one or more of the following characteristics: revenue growth and/or job growth; innovative products or services; provides exemplary customer service; encourages and provides professional development of staff; and volunteers in the Macomb Area community.
One of 2Dye4's nominators noted that the local business is a 'model of excellence in the beauty industry,' and provides personalized experiences that make every client feel valued, confident and welcomed. Whether participating in local events, supporting charitable initiatives, or collaborating with other small businesses, they remain active contributors to the vitality and well-being of the Macomb area. Another noted that Murphy spends endless hours committed to her business, continually adding new services that her clients enjoy, and that her staff continue their education to expand their knowledge and skill on particular services, while others noted the extraordinary growth of her business over the last three years and her commitment to community service.
'It is an honor to be named Business of the Year,' Murphy said. 'But this award really belongs to my team. Thank you to the community and our clients. Your support, trust and loyalty mean everything. This is incredibly humbling.'
Chamber Ambassador of the Year: Crystal Carson, McDonough County Courthouse According to Chamber Ambassador Program Chair Carrie Pedigo, Carson truly embodies the spirit of being a Chamber Ambassador.
'Her positive energy and infectious laugh are paired with a willingness to show up, step in, and always represent herself and the Chamber with professionalism and heart,' Pedigo said.
Chairperson's Award: Lin Stults, Engraving by Lin Steven Brody, who served as emcee of the event, noted Stults' decades of devotion to the community.
'Lin has been the go-to person for Chamber nametags, awards and plaques. Her work supports moments of recognition, celebration and professionalism,' Brody said. Always making others feel seen and appreciated, it is now her turn to be recognized.'
Stults was unable to attend in person; however, her award was presented to her earlier.
Past Board Chair John Meixner said Stults' business is a model of how a business should operate and she is 'positive all the time.'
'If you need someone to model your business after, Lin is the one to look at,' he added. 'Congratulations to Lin. She is very deserving!' Citizen of the Year: Jeff Hamer, Ret. Chief, Macomb Police Department.
To be considered for Citizen of the Year, nominees must have demonstrated excellence in their profession; be an active Chamber member; gone the extra mile to get involved in programs and activities that benefit the community; displays leadership, initiative, creativity and dedication professionally; and inspire others to get involved or makes a difference in the lives of others.
According to Hamer's nominator, Hamer spent more than 20 years serving Macomb and throughout that time, he's become 'one of the most steadfast, approachable, and community- minded leaders we have.' Hamer's nominator also shared that as the chief, “he guided the department through some incredibly challenging times with calm, honesty and a genuine care for the community, and was committed to active and engaged leadership, both for himself and his fellow officers.”
'We were lucky to have him in law enforcement for as long as we did and we are lucky to get to keep him in the community now,' she added.
Hamer was unable to attend the event due to a work-related commitment out of town. Interim Chief Todd Tedrow accepted the award on his behalf, reading prepared remarks by the retired chief.
'The award means so much because it comes from the community I've dedicated my life to serving and protecting,' Hamer stated. 'Thank you to the Chamber for the award. And thank you to the fellow nominees. You all make Macomb a warm, inviting place to live, work and thrive. Keep up the good work.'
Service Organization/ Nonprofit of the Year: Altrusa Club of Macomb Service Organization of the Year nominees must make a meaningful and positive impact in the Macomb Area community; provide innovative and/or exemplary services; and maintain a responsible and rewarding environment for staff and/or volunteers.
The Altrusa Club's nominator shared that the organization provides over 500 books to area children each year and 'continuously fulfills their mission of community literacy.' To foster education, Altrusa awards multiple college scholarships to local students ensuring academic success for years to come. The club, which was chartered in 1961, works with a variety of other area organizations throughout the year assisting in their fundraising efforts, noted the nominator.
'What an honor to receive this award,' noted Mariah Huston, a member of the Altrusa Club. 'We are so proud to be a part of this community and making sure that the children of our community thrive.'
Chamber member Eric Blakeley, who recently retired after three terms on the Chamber's Board of Directors was also honored his tenure, while Past Chair John Meixner was honored for his service.
For more information on Chamber activities and programs, or to become a member, visit macombareachamber.com.
