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Humility and service.

Those two words describe the honorees at the Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce awards earlier this week.

Debbie Germany, Natchezian Woman of the Year; Johnny Byrne, Natchezian Man of the Year; Patti White, manager of Smoot’s Grocery, the Small Business of the Year; and John E. Hicks III, third-generation owner of Hicks Chiks, Large Business of the Year.

Each of these individuals were lauded and honored during the ceremony, but like those who were honored in previous years, the roots of their impact run deep in our community.

Germany – whose career took her from teacher to Chamber CEO to grant-writer and community volunteer – lives by a motto “to make things happen.”

Byrne, a fourth-generation Natchezians who leads a successful insurance agency and is a tireless volunteer and champion of multiple organizations and efforts, sets an example of service and dedication for his family and his community.

White, whose business provides live entertainment and a familiar gathering place for locals and a welcome respite for visitors, is an excellent example of using a business to do good, from supporting causes for animals and people in need.

Hicks, the third generation to lead a business born from necessity and grit that now serves the region, is a generous supporter of church, youth and community organizations, from feeding the hungry to preserving history.

Together they exemplify the concept of using one’s gifts and talents to succeed and to serve, finding success in their professional lives while also improving the quality of life in the community for neighbors and friends alike.

And, most important, they set an example for others to follow.

Congratulations to these winners, and thank you again for making Natchez and Adams County your home.