2024 Beltonian Award -
Danny Dossman

The Beltonian Award is given in recognition of longtime achievement in volunteer service to the Belton community. This could be for service in education, a religious or service organization, youth programs, or any area that improves the quality of life in Belton.
The Beltonian Award has traditionally been given as a “Lifetime Achievement Award” to someone in our community. If anyone deserves this award, it is Danny Dossman. Danny has been a friend to Belton, local service organizations like the Lions Club, and especially the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce. He has helped so many in the community through his leadership at the Chamber, as a local business owner, and as an individual contributor.
One of his lasting legacies is his contribution to the community with the Chamber’s Patriot Way Brick Walk. When the City of Belton was reimagining the entrance to the city on Central Avenue, Danny came up with the idea of Patriot Way. The city already had the vision of removing the power lines, adding a nice sidewalk, and extending the antique streetlights down Central Avenue. Danny’s idea was to go a step further—to give this municipal project a soul—the soul of remembering so many honored veterans in Bell County.
Not only is it a daily reminder of those who have served or are serving, but it has also become an important outreach effort of the Chamber...

2024 Citizen of the Year -
Emilio Perales

The Citizen of the Year Award is given to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the community through Chamber-related activities during the previous year.
Our 2024 Citizen of the Year is Emilio Perales.
Emilio has distinguished himself as a highly respected servant leader in our community. In addition to being an Army veteran, he is the co-owner of Vista Real Estate, a company that reflects his values. Vista Real Estate is well known for its commitment to serving and investing in the community, including support for veteran organizations, the Bell County Youth Fair, school supply and food drives, and more.
Emilio has served on numerous boards and advisory committees, including the Chamber Board of Directors for the past five years, and as Chair in 2023.
A strong supporter of the Chamber, Emilio encourages others to join, sponsor events, and actively participate—always leading by example. He is someone who knows everyone, and whom everyone looks to for advice and guidance. He has openly shared his journey through cancer treatment and has used his voice to support and encourage others whenever needed.
His example of service and leadership in our community is truly exceptional.

2024 Ambassador of the Year -
Karen Wheeler

Our Ambassadors serve a vital role in the Chamber, actively promoting its mission throughout our community. While they are best recognized as the leaders of ribbon-cutting ceremonies, they also serve as hosts for events such as this banquet and other networking gatherings.
Each year, the Ambassadors nominate one of their own for the Ambassador of the Year Award—an honor given to someone who exemplifies outstanding service. This award is especially meaningful as it reflects the respect and appreciation of one’s peers.
Our 2024 Ambassador of the Year is Karen Wheeler.
Karen, a relationship banker for Extraco Bank in Belton, is known by many as the Pie Lady and is a beloved member of our community.
She has been an outstanding Ambassador for many years, readily volunteering whenever needed, enthusiastically supporting Chamber initiatives, and never allowing her busy schedule to keep her from serving. Karen has also been a dedicated member of our Leadership Belton planning committee for many years, always providing a warm welcome—and often a hug—to all who cross her path.
A true servant leader, Karen has been an exceptional representative not only of Extraco Banks but also of the Chamber and our entire community.

2024 Community Partner -
Crossroads Church

Crossroads Church in Belton has been a shining example of what it means to invest in the community. While most churches have ministries to reach out to the community, Crossroads Church is especially intentional in doing so. They actively plan events and activities that encourage their members to engage and serve, even designating certain Sundays when “the church has left the building” to serve the community and “be the church.” A core part of their mission is to connect with the community through service projects and meaningful engagement.
Crossroads Church has also been a dedicated partner to the Chamber, including participating in our annual golf tournament—and even winning it one year! Additionally, when we moved our 4th of July Festival on Nolan Creek to Liberty Park this past year, Crossroads Church stepped up to help with one of the biggest challenges—parking—by generously allowing festival vendors and attendees to use their parking lot.
This kind of unwavering willingness to serve—whether through volunteers, participation, or the sharing of resources—makes Crossroads Church truly worthy of recognition.

2024 Community Partner -
KWTX 

KWTX has a long history of community engagement, demonstrating a strong commitment to covering a variety of events and activities in our area. We are proud that Belton was chosen as one of only a handful of communities for Rusty Garrett’s Farewell Tour a few years ago. In addition, KWTX has helped host a Business After Hours event and is always ready to support the Chamber in whatever we do.
This past year, KWTX stepped up to provide live coverage of our 4th of July Parade. While that alone is commendable, what makes their contribution truly worthy of special recognition is the enthusiasm, commitment of resources, and high-quality production they brought to the task. Beyond the broadcast itself, KWTX provided extensive publicity for our celebration, elevating community engagement and support.
They went above and beyond expectations, actively participating in the planning and successful execution of the parade broadcast. General Manager Josh Young and his team were fully committed to making it a memorable experience for all, and their efforts were met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from viewers.
This level of excellence cannot—and should not—be taken for granted. It is with great appreciation that we honor KWTX as a Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Community Partner.

2024 Small Business of the Year
Level 3 Coworking & Event Center

Level 3 Coworking and Event Center is more than just a workspace—it’s a thriving community of small businesses and a business incubator, providing a launching pad for numerous local businesses before they expand into larger offices.
Beyond supporting entrepreneurs, Level 3 has hosted countless events, drawing people to downtown Belton for meetings, training sessions, and celebrations. The beautiful Courtyard at Level 3 has become a beloved gathering place, offering great food from the C3 Food Truck, live music, and a welcoming bar—creating an impressive and fun atmosphere.
And there’s even more to come! Level 3 is expanding, with plans for an enhanced bar area and an upscale steakhouse in the works. By attracting visitors and fostering business growth, Level 3 continues to play a vital role in the revitalization of downtown Belton.

2024 Business of the Year - KPA Engineers

KPA Engineers has been a dedicated supporter of both our community and the Chamber for many years. Their commitment is reflected in the recognition of two of their team members as past Citizens of the Year: Mack Parker in 2000 and Trae Sutton in 2011. Their investment in Belton, both professionally and personally, has been truly extraordinary.
KPA has played a key role in the master planning of many significant infrastructure projects that have contributed to the growth of our city. Their work includes projects such as the Belton Business Park, as well as ongoing initiatives like Avenue D, I-14 wastewater improvements, and Standpipe Park. When KPA is involved, we can trust that quality improvements are on the way.
Beyond infrastructure, KPA is an active supporter of the Chamber, consistently participating in events such as the 4th of July Rodeo, golf tournament, and Leadership Belton projects—virtually every event we host. Most recently, when we unveiled the Leadership Belton Welcome to Belton Monument Sign, KPA stepped up to provide engineering services and TXDOT coordination at no cost to the Chamber or the City.
Their generosity, expertise, and commitment to Belton’s growth make KPA Engineers a valued partner in our community.

2024 Business of the Year -
​Emerson Construction

Emerson Construction has played a vital role in building our community for many years, contributing to numerous commercial construction projects that have shaped Belton.
Beyond their contributions to infrastructure, Emerson has been a steadfast supporter of the Chamber’s Leadership Belton program. Denice Allison has served on the Leadership Belton planning committee and has facilitated Healthcare Day for many years. Last year, Apple Fulton of Emerson Construction was a proud member of the Leadership Belton Class of 2024.
For years, the North Main Street Welcome to Belton sign had been a proposed Leadership Belton project—until Apple Fulton’s team stepped up to make it a reality. Emerson Construction took the lead, securing sponsorships for materials and supplies, which significantly reduced the overall project cost. Thanks to their efforts, along with support from other sponsors, the City of Belton, and the Chamber, this long-awaited project was finally completed.
The commitment of Emerson Construction to both Belton’s growth and leadership development is truly commendable.

2024 ​Rising Star Award -
Krista Snyder

Kris is an innovative entrepreneur and the owner or co-owner of several businesses in downtown Belton, including the Haut Institute of Esthetics, Blackbird Books & Spirits, Thistle Farmacy & Market, Studio Zentral, and Pinky’s.
Beyond successfully managing multiple businesses, Kris is deeply committed to supporting and uplifting others. She has a passion for engaging with people and helping fellow entrepreneurs thrive. She was a driving force behind the launch of HYPE, our initiative to support young professionals, as well as the Belton Business Advisory Panel, which provides valuable mentorship opportunities. Additionally, Kris is a passionate advocate for empowering and investing in women.
A true visionary and community leader, Kris is someone to watch—and partner with—as Belton continues to grow. We are proud that she has chosen Belton as the center of her entrepreneurial journey, and we know that her influence will be extraordinary as we move forward together.

2024 Legendary Impact Award -
Frank Minosky 

Retired Command Sergeant Major Frank Minosky came to Belton through his assignment at Fort Hood. Thanks in no small part to his wife, Joey, he quickly made it his home, sinking deep roots and investing in our community to make it better.
After his military career, Frank embarked on a second career with Workforce Solutions of Central Texas, focusing on the needs of veterans. He has also served our community in numerous ways, volunteering with the VFW, AUSA, Belton Planning and Zoning Commission, and City Council. Over the past 20+ years, his work with the Chamber has included serving as chair of the parade, a member of the board of directors, and leading the Military Relations Committee. He was named Citizen of the Year in 2005 and recognized as a Fort Hood Good Neighbor.
Frank has been a driving force behind the One-Percenters Luncheon, held on the last Friday of each month for veterans, and he played a crucial role in helping our Military Relations Committee thrive. With a direct line to Fort Hood/Fort Cavazos, he facilitated connections and collaborations with our military neighbors. Although he served as MRC Chair longer than he intended, he embraced every challenge we presented to him. Under his leadership, the MRC has significantly expanded its reach and impact.
Frank is a true leader and servant, making our community better for veterans and for everyone, ultimately making Belton a better place.