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2021 Beltonian Award - Dan & Kandy KirkleyThe Beltonian Award is given in recognition of longtime achievement in volunteer service to the Belton community. That service could be for service in education, church, a service organization, youth programs, or any area that improves the quality of life in Belton. It’s a lifetime legacy award.
Dan and Kandy founded Hope for the Hungry in 1982, so for those counting, that means this year they will celebrate 40 years of service to the children and people of Haiti, Belton, and around the world. One of the most intriguing things about this extraordinary couple is how they have served in both public and very private ways. Both have served in elected office, representing and serving the community. And both have significant private, personal ministries. Kandy served on the Belton ISD Board of Trustees for 15 years (1984-1999) and as board president for 4 years (1989-93). She was always a passionate advocate for students and teachers, making sure everyone remembered to keep our focus on what was best for kids. And she wasn’t afraid, or at least never showed it, to be the first, or only, woman at the table. She was my mentor when I first joined the school board, and taught me several lessons I passed along to subsequent trustees. |
Dan has served on the Belton City Council since 2013, after a decade on the Planning and Zoning Commission. He also helps lead the CARE Leadership Network for the Belton-Temple community. In those roles, he often talks about how we must be good neighbors and care for those in need, reminding us what it means to be community.
Kandy also served on staff for First Baptist Church; Dan in various ministry roles; and both have been teachers, counselors, and mentors to countless individuals. Their impact is difficult to quantify because they both have an unusual capacity for focusing on individuals one-on-one. So it’s one person at a time, over many, many years. They sacrifice, they serve; quietly and often beyond public view.
One notable thing their daughter, Christan, told me recently is that what we see in public is exactly who they are at home. They are the genuine, unconditional loving, serving, caring people to all who cross their path.
As described in the award criteria, Dan and Kandy have demonstrated longtime achievement in volunteer service to the Belton community. Their service has covered the range of education, church, service organization, youth programs, and multiple areas that have improved the quality of life in our area. Our community is better because of Dan and Kandy, so it is fitting and appropriate that we thank them for a lifetime of service to our community.
You’ve probably heard Dan say, “When I grow up, I want to be like…” Well, what I believe is, we would all do well to grow up to be like Dan and Kandy. So thank you for being role models of community servants, and for being who we should aspire to grow up to be like. -Randy Pittenger, President/CEO
Kandy also served on staff for First Baptist Church; Dan in various ministry roles; and both have been teachers, counselors, and mentors to countless individuals. Their impact is difficult to quantify because they both have an unusual capacity for focusing on individuals one-on-one. So it’s one person at a time, over many, many years. They sacrifice, they serve; quietly and often beyond public view.
One notable thing their daughter, Christan, told me recently is that what we see in public is exactly who they are at home. They are the genuine, unconditional loving, serving, caring people to all who cross their path.
As described in the award criteria, Dan and Kandy have demonstrated longtime achievement in volunteer service to the Belton community. Their service has covered the range of education, church, service organization, youth programs, and multiple areas that have improved the quality of life in our area. Our community is better because of Dan and Kandy, so it is fitting and appropriate that we thank them for a lifetime of service to our community.
You’ve probably heard Dan say, “When I grow up, I want to be like…” Well, what I believe is, we would all do well to grow up to be like Dan and Kandy. So thank you for being role models of community servants, and for being who we should aspire to grow up to be like. -Randy Pittenger, President/CEO
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2021 Citizen of the Year Award - Jordan SamfieldJordan has distinguished himself as a highly valued servant leader in our community. He serves as the Vice President of Commercial Lending for First Texas Bank, and in that role has been instrumental in helping local businesses grow and thrive.
Jordan has been an exceptional partner for the Chamber. As a member of our Leadership Belton Class of 2019, Jordan began seeking opportunities to be actively involved in a variety of Chamber programs and activities. After completing his year with Leadership Belton, he transitioned to the LB planning committee to make the next group’s experiences even better. Specifically, he serves as the facilitator our Economic Development Day. Jordan has served on our 4th of July planning committees, specifically for the Downtown Street Party, as well as the Spur Classic Golf Tournament planning committee. He was elected to the Chamber Board of Trustees in 2020, and then as board Treasurer in 2021 where he has worked to make the Chamber’s financial reporting more efficient and effective. That all demonstrates a fast track to community service and leadership. Jordan was instrumental in helping numerous local organizations, including the Chamber, obtain a PPP loan during the pandemic. He recognizes the importance of investing in community and advocates on behalf of businesses to obtain the support they need to grow and be successful. |
Jordan has consistently and enthusiastically supported every event and project of the chamber, volunteering to help out in whatever way it was needed. His fellow board members recognized his investment in and support of our community so selected him for this special honor.
Jordan doesn’t seek the spotlight, but has stepped up in his role as a leader for the Chamber and our community. In true form, Jordan was deferential and tried to deflect accolades to others. His positive attitude and strong servant heart is exactly what distinguishes Jordan Samfield, and resulted in him being named the 2021 Citizen of the Year. -Randy Pittenger, President/CEO
Jordan doesn’t seek the spotlight, but has stepped up in his role as a leader for the Chamber and our community. In true form, Jordan was deferential and tried to deflect accolades to others. His positive attitude and strong servant heart is exactly what distinguishes Jordan Samfield, and resulted in him being named the 2021 Citizen of the Year. -Randy Pittenger, President/CEO
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2021 Ambassador of the Year - Sandy SmithSandy works for Scot Hrbacek, Edward Jones who has actively supported her involvement in Chamber activities.
Sandy has been a great Ambassador, always present at events, enthusiastically supporting whatever is going on, and not letting the pandemic restrictions prevent her from serving where she could. She is a willing servant leader, volunteering to help with whatever project or event is coming next. Sandy has been a great representative not only of Scot Hrbacek and Edward Jones, but also of the Chamber, and our community. -Randy Pittenger, President/CEO |
2021 Community Partner Awards
John Burford, Post Commander, Lake Belton VFW Post 10377
John is the Post Commander for the Lake Belton VFW Post 10377.
Our Military Relations Committee had a dream for a special dedication ceremony on Veteran’s Day for our new Patriot Way Brick Walk sign. We needed a champion for that effort, and John responded to our call.
John took the lead in planning for a great event held on November 11 at which we were able to honor our local veterans and dedicate the new sign. If you haven’t seen it, or aren’t aware of our Patriot Way Brick Walk, we encourage you to check it out on Central Avenue near the Chamber office.
We are thankful for John’s service to our nation and our community, and for helping us hold the first of what we plan to be an annual Veterans Day ceremony in Belton.
Thank you John Burford for making a difference in our community, and it is with great gratitude we honor you as a Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Community Partner.
Our Military Relations Committee had a dream for a special dedication ceremony on Veteran’s Day for our new Patriot Way Brick Walk sign. We needed a champion for that effort, and John responded to our call.
John took the lead in planning for a great event held on November 11 at which we were able to honor our local veterans and dedicate the new sign. If you haven’t seen it, or aren’t aware of our Patriot Way Brick Walk, we encourage you to check it out on Central Avenue near the Chamber office.
We are thankful for John’s service to our nation and our community, and for helping us hold the first of what we plan to be an annual Veterans Day ceremony in Belton.
Thank you John Burford for making a difference in our community, and it is with great gratitude we honor you as a Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Community Partner.
The Belton Journal
The Belton Journal has been a standard in our community since long before any of us arrived. Published weekly since 1866, The Journal has been our hometown paper, sharing the stories of our community and helping support our local businesses. David Tuma has been the owner and publisher since 1996.
Throughout its history, the Belton Journal has been a consistent supporter of local business owners. We have seen that even more strongly during the past couple of years with the unusual challenges we faced together. The Journal’s intentional and strategic efforts to support our community have been noticed and appreciated, so our board wanted to say a special thank you to David through this recognition.
Thank you David Tuma and the Belton Journal for making a difference in our community, and it is with great gratitude we honor you and your team as a Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Community Partner.
Throughout its history, the Belton Journal has been a consistent supporter of local business owners. We have seen that even more strongly during the past couple of years with the unusual challenges we faced together. The Journal’s intentional and strategic efforts to support our community have been noticed and appreciated, so our board wanted to say a special thank you to David through this recognition.
Thank you David Tuma and the Belton Journal for making a difference in our community, and it is with great gratitude we honor you and your team as a Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Community Partner.
Bell County Expo
The Expo has been a long time partner with the chamber for events, including the 4th of July Rodeo and our annual banquet. Last year we set a record for ticket sales and enjoyed an extraordinary rodeo. This year, we are excited about celebrating the 98th annual Belton 4th of July Rodeo.
In addition to chamber events, the Expo hosts hundreds of events throughout the year, including the recent Bell County Youth Fair, TABA Home and Garden Show this weekend, Central Texas State Fair, concerts, and more; bringing out of town visitors, and contributing to the quality of life in our area.
Their efforts to provide a quality venue with great customer service have distinguished the Expo as the place to be. It is notable that even with the special challenges during the pandemic, they always went above and beyond to provide a safe and comfortable environment.
Thank you, Tim and your team at the Bell County Expo, for making a difference in our community, and it is with great gratitude we honor you as a Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Community Partner.
In addition to chamber events, the Expo hosts hundreds of events throughout the year, including the recent Bell County Youth Fair, TABA Home and Garden Show this weekend, Central Texas State Fair, concerts, and more; bringing out of town visitors, and contributing to the quality of life in our area.
Their efforts to provide a quality venue with great customer service have distinguished the Expo as the place to be. It is notable that even with the special challenges during the pandemic, they always went above and beyond to provide a safe and comfortable environment.
Thank you, Tim and your team at the Bell County Expo, for making a difference in our community, and it is with great gratitude we honor you as a Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Community Partner.
City of Belton and Belton Economic Development Corporation
Our partnerships with the City and EDC are vital to the success of our efforts to support our local businesses and organizations, and to build our community. Certainly through our most visible activities during the 4th of July Celebration, our partnerships are obvious. However, throughout the year, in virtually every program or activity we do, we coordinate and work together with City and BEDC staff. The Belton Police Department, Fire Department, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Tourism and Retail Development, Planning, Economic Development, and more, are representative of a City that serves and invests in our community.
On behalf of our board, we want to thank the City of Belton and Belton EDC for your partnership with the chamber. We value that and don’t take it for granted. We would like to specifically recognize:
Thank you to the City of Belton and Belton EDC staff for making a difference in our community, and it is with great gratitude we honor you as Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Community Partners.
On behalf of our board, we want to thank the City of Belton and Belton EDC for your partnership with the chamber. We value that and don’t take it for granted. We would like to specifically recognize:
- Judy Garrett – a daily partner as we promote the Belton area to potential new businesses and to visitors looking to invest or come spend their money in our community.
- Matt Bates – Director of both Parks and Recreation and Public Works (recently named as Director of PW – no longer just interim).
- BEDC Executive Director Cynthia Hernandez is a great partner and neighbor in our shared building.
- Mayor Wayne Carpenter will represent the other City departments.
Thank you to the City of Belton and Belton EDC staff for making a difference in our community, and it is with great gratitude we honor you as Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Community Partners.
Businesses of the Year
Belton H-E-B Plus
Our 2021 Large Business of the Year is our Belton H-E-B plus.
The Belton H-E-B plus has consistently demonstrated a commitment to our community through their involvement in a variety of community building activities. They are sponsors of numerous community events including the 4th of July Celebration, and Belton’s Bacon, Blues and Brews. They consistently support non-profit organizations in our community through donations of funds, staff, and services.
Perhaps most notable to us all, is the way the Belton H-E-B plus has served our community throughout the challenges of the pandemic, last year’s (and this year’s) winter storms, and every time our community has special needs. Despite numerous challenges, they have continued operations, even when most were unable to open. They persevered when it wasn’t easy.
H-E-B partners are known for their great customer service, even under less than ideal circumstances. It is not unusual to hear stories about H-E-B partners going out of their way to help those in need.
General Manager Eric Tovar, despite a carrying a heavy load, is always responsive to requests to help in our community. Whether speaking to our Leadership Belton group, or serving on the Belton ISD CTE Advisory Council, Eric is always willing to help as needed.
We are thrilled to recognize the Belton H-E-B plus as a 2021 Business of the Year. Representing the Belton H-E-B plus tonight is General Manager Eric Tovar. The rest of his team is working hard to take care of us with this week’s challenges.
The Belton H-E-B plus has consistently demonstrated a commitment to our community through their involvement in a variety of community building activities. They are sponsors of numerous community events including the 4th of July Celebration, and Belton’s Bacon, Blues and Brews. They consistently support non-profit organizations in our community through donations of funds, staff, and services.
Perhaps most notable to us all, is the way the Belton H-E-B plus has served our community throughout the challenges of the pandemic, last year’s (and this year’s) winter storms, and every time our community has special needs. Despite numerous challenges, they have continued operations, even when most were unable to open. They persevered when it wasn’t easy.
H-E-B partners are known for their great customer service, even under less than ideal circumstances. It is not unusual to hear stories about H-E-B partners going out of their way to help those in need.
General Manager Eric Tovar, despite a carrying a heavy load, is always responsive to requests to help in our community. Whether speaking to our Leadership Belton group, or serving on the Belton ISD CTE Advisory Council, Eric is always willing to help as needed.
We are thrilled to recognize the Belton H-E-B plus as a 2021 Business of the Year. Representing the Belton H-E-B plus tonight is General Manager Eric Tovar. The rest of his team is working hard to take care of us with this week’s challenges.
Schoepf's BBQ
Our second 2021 Business of the Year is Schoepf’s BBQ.
Ronnie and Staci Schoepf have not only provided quality food and entertainment for our community; they have consistently looked for ways to partner with the Chamber and other local organizations to serve our community.
The Schoepf’s Backyard is a popular venue for events including the 4th of July Backyard Party Concert and Fireworks, non-profit organization banquets and fundraisers, and numerous other events, including the Belton High School prom. Ronnie and Staci are also big supporters of our schools and athletic booster clubs, providing whatever is needed to make events special for our kids.
Ronnie and Staci have used their amazing venue as an attraction for locals and out of town guests, making it a popular community gathering place for us all. Their commitment to customer service is well known and appreciated. Even throughout the pandemic restrictions, Ronnie and Staci actively looked for ways to continue to serve the community, add to our quality of life, and provide opportunities for us to gather in a safe and comfortable environment.
We are thrilled to recognize Schoepf’s BBQ as a 2021 Business of the Year. This is a family owned and operated business, so representing the family in accepting this award are Ronnie and Staci Schoepf.
Ronnie and Staci Schoepf have not only provided quality food and entertainment for our community; they have consistently looked for ways to partner with the Chamber and other local organizations to serve our community.
The Schoepf’s Backyard is a popular venue for events including the 4th of July Backyard Party Concert and Fireworks, non-profit organization banquets and fundraisers, and numerous other events, including the Belton High School prom. Ronnie and Staci are also big supporters of our schools and athletic booster clubs, providing whatever is needed to make events special for our kids.
Ronnie and Staci have used their amazing venue as an attraction for locals and out of town guests, making it a popular community gathering place for us all. Their commitment to customer service is well known and appreciated. Even throughout the pandemic restrictions, Ronnie and Staci actively looked for ways to continue to serve the community, add to our quality of life, and provide opportunities for us to gather in a safe and comfortable environment.
We are thrilled to recognize Schoepf’s BBQ as a 2021 Business of the Year. This is a family owned and operated business, so representing the family in accepting this award are Ronnie and Staci Schoepf.
Custom Signs
Our 2021 Small Business of the Year is Custom Signs, owned and operated by Ricky Ruiz.
Known as “Belton’s Biggest Little Sign Shop,” Custom Signs is a great partner for the Chamber and for businesses in our community. As previously noted for our other awardees, Custom Signs is well known for their reputation for customer service. They are responsive with timely and quality work, whatever is needed.
Custom Signs is a small, family owned business that has consistently served our community. Throughout the pandemic, they have met the need for additional signage, and are always prompt and responsive to identified needs.
When discussing local small businesses that stand out as exemplary in their business practices and service to community, our staff and board readily agreed that Custom Signs is well deserving of recognition. Thank you to Custom Signs for providing quality services while demonstrating old fashioned values of honesty, integrity, and customer service.
Representing Custom Signs tonight is Ricky Ruiz. Celebrating with Ricky tonight are his wife Stella, Justin and Maegan Ruiz, Darren and DeAnn Perkins, and Rodney and Sophia Stephenson.
Known as “Belton’s Biggest Little Sign Shop,” Custom Signs is a great partner for the Chamber and for businesses in our community. As previously noted for our other awardees, Custom Signs is well known for their reputation for customer service. They are responsive with timely and quality work, whatever is needed.
Custom Signs is a small, family owned business that has consistently served our community. Throughout the pandemic, they have met the need for additional signage, and are always prompt and responsive to identified needs.
When discussing local small businesses that stand out as exemplary in their business practices and service to community, our staff and board readily agreed that Custom Signs is well deserving of recognition. Thank you to Custom Signs for providing quality services while demonstrating old fashioned values of honesty, integrity, and customer service.
Representing Custom Signs tonight is Ricky Ruiz. Celebrating with Ricky tonight are his wife Stella, Justin and Maegan Ruiz, Darren and DeAnn Perkins, and Rodney and Sophia Stephenson.
Legendary Impact Award
Pete Fredenburg, Retired UMHB Football Coach
You might have heard that Belton is home to the undefeated NCAA Division III National Champion – UMHB Crusader Football. Again!
Pete Fredenburg has been recognized with numerous prestigious honors, including National Coach of the Year and induction into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, and more than we have time to mention.
Three years ago we recognized Coach Fredenburg and the Crusader Football team at this banquet with a Community Award of Excellence for the significant economic impact their success has had on our community. We understood then, as we still do, the amazing impact that UMHB and Cru Football have on our community. Also in 2019, Coach Fredenburg served as our 4th of July Parade Grand Marshal – that was fun!
Coach Fredenburg’s impact on UMHB and the Belton community is impossible to measure or overstate. The word “legend” is often casually tossed around but in this case, I think we can all agree it is a good fit for the man who has brought extraordinary acclaim to UMHB and our community during the past 24 years as Head Coach of Cru Football. He may have retired, but his legacy is legendary.
His impact isn’t just in wins and championships, however. As has been stated often, his impact on the lives of so many young people is what stands out to those who have been with him. Several Cru football alumni have joined us tonight representing the hundreds (thousands) who have played for him, so I’d like to ask for everyone present who has played for Coach Fredenburg to stand. We’ll have an opportunity later for a great photo opp with that group.
Our board wanted to take the opportunity to recognize and say thank you one more time to Coach Pete Fredenburg, so on behalf of our Chamber and Community we are presenting him with the Legendary Impact Award. -Randy Pittenger, President/CEO
Pete Fredenburg has been recognized with numerous prestigious honors, including National Coach of the Year and induction into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, and more than we have time to mention.
Three years ago we recognized Coach Fredenburg and the Crusader Football team at this banquet with a Community Award of Excellence for the significant economic impact their success has had on our community. We understood then, as we still do, the amazing impact that UMHB and Cru Football have on our community. Also in 2019, Coach Fredenburg served as our 4th of July Parade Grand Marshal – that was fun!
Coach Fredenburg’s impact on UMHB and the Belton community is impossible to measure or overstate. The word “legend” is often casually tossed around but in this case, I think we can all agree it is a good fit for the man who has brought extraordinary acclaim to UMHB and our community during the past 24 years as Head Coach of Cru Football. He may have retired, but his legacy is legendary.
His impact isn’t just in wins and championships, however. As has been stated often, his impact on the lives of so many young people is what stands out to those who have been with him. Several Cru football alumni have joined us tonight representing the hundreds (thousands) who have played for him, so I’d like to ask for everyone present who has played for Coach Fredenburg to stand. We’ll have an opportunity later for a great photo opp with that group.
Our board wanted to take the opportunity to recognize and say thank you one more time to Coach Pete Fredenburg, so on behalf of our Chamber and Community we are presenting him with the Legendary Impact Award. -Randy Pittenger, President/CEO
