Desoto County News

Hernando Main Street Chamber Honors Local Leaders at Annual Awards Luncheon

NESBIT, Miss. — The Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce recognized outstanding businesses, nonprofits and community leaders during its annual awards luncheon Tuesday at The Gin at Nesbit.

Chamber Executive Director Sibonie Swatzyna presented honors across multiple categories, highlighting the impact of local organizations and individuals on Hernando’s growth and community spirit.

  • Outstanding Business of the Year: Southern Pediatric Therapy was honored for leadership, innovation and community engagement.
  • Spirit of Main Street: Kim Daly, owner of City Hall Cheesecake, received the award for her business and her ministry, Love Works 25:40, which has supported the homeless for nearly a decade.
  • Citizen of the Year: Sheriff Thomas Tuggle was recognized for decades of service as a U.S. Marine and law enforcement leader, training thousands of officers and mentoring youth.
  • Outstanding Renovation: Magnolia Eye Group transformed the historic clinic at 124 West Commerce Street into a modern space while preserving its character.
  • Outstanding Nonprofit: Junior Auxiliary of DeSoto County was honored for more than 8,000 volunteer hours annually, supporting children and families through programs such as Hopes for Kids and Cinderella’s Closet.
  • Best Development Project: Delta Landing by Skylake Construction was recognized for its mixed-use development blending residential and retail spaces.
  • Ambassador of the Year: Bryce Dickerson was honored for his dedication to chamber events and ribbon cuttings.
  • Young Professional of the Year: Carson Phillips was recognized for relaunching the chamber’s Hernando Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs (HYPE) Program while balancing personal challenges.
  • Chamber Superheroes: Hunter and Mary Catherine Logan received the award for their behind-the-scenes support, including landscaping, maintenance and event assistance.

The luncheon also acknowledged retiring board members for their years of service to the chamber.

Bob Bakken

Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.