CHAMBER HONORS MEMBERS
“Please do not try to change Peter. He is going to change the world.”
“That’s my Snuggums,” was the answer.
This exchange was remembered between Peter’s mother, Julie, and his third grade teacher.
But until Saturday night, Peter Knutzen was widely known in Fannin County by his name. Now, he’ll probably be hearing the name his mother gave him often among his friends.
Doug Miracle told this story when he presented Knutzen with the Outstanding Chamber Member of the Year honor at the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce annual banquet.
Other honorees included Ambassador of the Year Char Stacy, Community Service Award winner Danny Melman and Michelle Moran, Heart of the Community honorees Impact 100, and Honorary Lifetime Member Jan Hackett.
Of Knutzen, Miracle said his “level of charity” is a testament to his “golden heart,” deep rooted in community service and generosity. “This level of charity is a testament to his character and passion for making a difference in the lives of others, in turn, making a difference in our community,” Miracle said.
Knutzen is managing partner of Old Toccoa Farm and president of the executive board of Open Arms for Children.
As ambassador of the year, Stacy was recognized because, “Despite her busy schedule as a real esate agent and a business partner with her husband, she still makes time to support the Chamber and always steps in to make new members feel welcome with her warm personality and contagious smile.”
Stacy managing broker at Ansley Mountain & Lake.
Melman and Moran, the husband and wife team behind Lit’l Pond Hospitality, were named the Community Service Award honorees for igniting, “A culinary revolution in Blue Ridge,” outgoing Chamber board Chairwoman Suzanne Davenport said in presenting the award.
“The are pioneers who envisioned and sculpted the restaurant scene in Blue Ridge starting over 15 years ago...opening seven incredible restaurants,” Davenport said.
Their creation of The Cook’s farm, “cultivates the joy of farming and cooking in young minds,” Davenport said.
Melman and Moran were also lauded for their care of first responders during the downtown Blue Ridge fire and working afterwards to support the affected businesses.
The non-profit group Impact 100 was presented the Heart of Community award in recognition “for making a tremendous impact in a short period of time.”
“These generous women make an annual $1,000 donation and members meet frequently and vote to determine the distribution of funds,” Troy Shirbroun, Chamber board chairman, said.
In just two years, the organization has contributed $265,000 to other local non-profits, benefiting children and individuals in need.
“This local group is a collective force for good, uniting and empowering women to give together, creating transformational impact, locally and globally,” Shirbroun said.
The cornerstone of the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce for decades, Jan Hackett, was presented the Honorary Lifetime Membership Award by Chamber President Christie Gribble.
“Her tenure as president of the Chamber for over 20 years speaks volumes about her commitment to our community,” Gribble said.
“Through challenges and changes, she has led us with grace and vision. Her tireless advocacy has reshaped the landscape of Fannin County.
“Her mentorship, friendship and unwavering dedication have transformed our community for the better,” Gribble said.
“Know that your legacy will endure, inspiring generations to come,” Gribble said.