WS Chronicle

For the 33rd year, The Chronicle is honoring those who serve with its Community Service Awards.

The awards banquet will be 6 p.m. Saturday, March 24, at the M.C. Benton Jr. Convention Center.

Former Reynolds American Vice President Lisa Caldwell and Z. Smith Reynolds (ZSR) Foundation Executive Director Maurice “Mo” Green will be Woman and Man of the Year. Judge Denise Hartsfield will be the mistress of ceremonies and Dionn Owen & Renaissance will provide musical selections.

“We’re just taking a moment to recognize those organizations and those individuals who have done great things in the community in the past year, and we want to acknowledge them and encourage others in the community to go forth and do some of the same things,” said Chronicle Publisher James Taylor.

Caldwell recently retired as the executive vice president and chief human resources officer of Reynolds American after 27 years with the tobacco giant. She’s a 1986 graduate of Wake Forest University School of Law. Her community involvement includes Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, The Links, The Moles and various local boards.

Green is director of ZSR, a family foundation that has invested more than $553 million in the state in the last 80 years. When he became executive director in March 2016, he conducted a yearlong strategic assessment, which included a “Mo Wants to Know” listening tour, that’s resulted in a new direction for ZSR. Prior to his current position, he served as superintendent of Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in the state.

Other awardees include:

Special Recognition

Attorney Renita Thompkins-Linville, who initially started her law firm in 1987, serves on numerous boards and is the first lady of Piney Grove Baptist Church.

Winston-Salem Police Foundation, a nonprofit that supports the Winton-Salam Police Department whose latest initiative is an ice cream truck and book mobile for police outreach.

Curators of the Arts

Endia Beal, a local artist, associate art professor and Diggs Gallery director, who serves on the Public Art Commission.

Owens Daniels, a widely displayed local artist known for his dynamic photos and photographic art.

Organizations of the Year

ACEY Group, a Women’s Fund group that educates women and girls about the power of philanthropy.

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity for its service in the community, including scholarships and a youth auxiliary.

Social Heart, a nonprofit that helps those in need.

United Health Centers, which operates a series of patient-governed health centers devoted to affordable, holistic medical care.

Lifetime Achievement

Anita “Boss Lady” Dean Arnette, a local radio host on AM1300/1400 “The Light.”

Rudolph Boone Sr., a former Carver High School band director who’s been involved in the community.

Community Service

Emma Allen, the chair of the Citizens’ M/WBE Advisory Committee.

Josh Howard Foundation, the charitable foundation of the former NBA basketball player that does an after-school program and other local outreach. 

Porsche Jones, a former Wake Forest basketball player who sponsors numerous youth basketball tournaments.

Human Relations

Rachel Jackson,  for her work on the Human Relations Commission.

Kenya Thornton, founder of Eliza’s Helping Hands and Community Intervention and Educational Services, for her community outreach.

Businesses of the Year

Body & Soul, a popular downtown afro-centric boutique.

Char’s Hamburgers, a popular eatery on Waughtown Street.

Ma’ati Spa, a successful downtown spa located on Main Street.

Sweet Potatoes, a noted downtown soul food restaurant that moved into a larger location last year.

Innovation Award

Cook Medical, a locally headquartered medical equipment company.

Young Professional

Ashley Hardesty,  co-owner of Forsyth Seafood.

Youth of the Year

Camden Myer, founder of Cam’s Coffee Creations.

For Seniors Only! Award

Mike Simpson, a local pastor and author of the book, “Fix Your Family.”

Tickets for the banquet are $30 each and come with six months of The Chronicle. Tables seat eight people. Call (336) 722-8624, ext. 100 for tickets or visit The Chronicle office at 1300 E. Fifth St., across from the historic Winston Mutual building, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Deadline for ticket purchases is March 16.