In Development - Testing Purposes Only

Horseshoe Bend Chamber of Commerce Recognition & Award Program

For the love of Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas Mitzi Ballman Civic Excellence Award

In the heart of Horseshoe Bend, AR, where community and tradition intertwine to create a tapestry of shared memories and collective endeavors, the Horseshoe Bend Chamber of Commerce (HBCC) is proud to introduce an accolade that encapsulates the essence of civic pride and community love. The "For the Love of Horseshoe" Mitzi Ballman Civic Excellence Award is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dedicate themselves to the enrichment of our community, mirroring the exemplary contributions of its namesake, Mitzi Ballman.

Mitzi Ballman is a beacon of community leadership and an embodiment of dedication to Horseshoe Bend. Her tireless efforts in spearheading the establishment of the "Little Theatre," a cornerstone for local arts and culture, have provided a stage for creativity and community bonding.

Beyond the footlights, Mitzi's role in coordinating volunteer projects, such as trash pickup initiatives, exemplifies her commitment to the beautification and sustainability of our town. A familiar face in the front row at city council meetings, Mitzi's engagement in civic discussions and decision-making processes underscores her deep investment in the future of Horseshoe Bend.

But perhaps, most endearingly, Mitzi is the keeper of our town's stories and memories. From tales of the vibrant retail market on Turkey Mountain that showcased local artisan goods and offered a taste of home with delicious meals, to recounting the milestones that have shaped our community, her narratives capture the heart and soul of Horseshoe Bend.

The "For the Love of Horseshoe" Mitzi Ballman Civic Excellence Award seeks to honor those who, like Mitzi, have made significant contributions to our community through leadership, volunteerism, cultural enrichment, and the preservation of our town's history and values.

This award is a celebration of the spirit of Horseshoe Bend—a spirit of involvement, care, and profound love for our town and its people.

We invite the residents of Horseshoe Bend to join us in recognizing and nominating individuals who embody this spirit, who have gone above and beyond to make our community a better place. Let us come together to celebrate the inaugural presentation of this award, honoring not only the legacy of Mitzi Ballman but also the collective efforts of those who contribute to the fabric of our community.

For more information on the nomination process and the award ceremony, please check back regularly here or on our website at horseshoechamber.org.

Together, let's continue to weave the story of Horseshoe Bend, AR, with threads of love, dedication, and community excellence.

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Award Criteria & Judging

update coming soon

Award Nomination & Ceremony

update coming soon

The Nancy Houdek Heart of Horseshoe Service Award

Announcing the Heart of Horseshoe, Nancy Houdek Service Award

The Horseshoe Bend Chamber of Commerce (HBCC) is honored to introduce the "Heart of Horseshoe, Nancy Houdek Service Award," a prestigious recognition celebrating exceptional volunteer service within our cherished community. This award is named in tribute to Nancy Houdek, whose tireless dedication and profound impact have left an indelible mark on Horseshoe Bend.

For years, Nancy has been at the forefront of volunteer service, embodying the spirit of community through her leadership and involvement. She has been instrumental in running the volunteer center, managing the visitor and tourist center, and ensuring the Resident Check-in line operates seamlessly. Nancy's contributions extend beyond operational tasks; she embodies the spirit of Christmas for the Chamber Children, meticulously planning children's events, parades, and ensuring the joyous essence of the holidays is felt by all.

Nancy's efforts in arranging the preparation and distribution of Horseshoe Bend promotional items have been pivotal in welcoming newcomers to our city, providing invaluable information to visitors, and supporting local businesses. Her initiative to manage and promote the area-wide yard sale exemplifies her commitment to community engagement and sustainability.

Her leadership qualities are further highlighted by her admirable engagement with the volunteer team. Nancy is always available to advise or assist, demonstrating a level of dedication and compassion that truly sets her apart.

The "Heart of Horseshoe, Nancy Houdek Service Award" seeks to honor a volunteer who demonstrates Nancy's extraordinary characteristics: commitment to community service, leadership, and an unwavering desire to make a positive impact in Horseshoe Bend. We believe that recognizing such contributions will inspire others to volunteer and contribute to our community's growth and well-being.

Nominations for this esteemed award will be accepted via our website once the award season opens. We encourage you to nominate a fellow volunteer who exemplifies the spirit and dedication of Nancy Houdek, and who has significantly contributed to the enrichment of our community.

Stay tuned for more details on the nomination process and let us come together to celebrate the heart and soul of Horseshoe Bend, exemplified by the remarkable Nancy Houdek.