By Betsy Brewer Brantner
Contributing Writer

The Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual Awards Dinner Dance on April 11, and this year’s event proved to be a beautiful night full of awards, dining, a little wine and a lot of dancing. The dinner was held in the Barn at Nottingham and The Master of Ceremony was Dennis McCartney, president of the Oxford Chamber.

Johnny Johnston was the recipient of this year’s Citizen of the Year Award. Kathy Book, a longtime Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. (OMI) board member and community leader, presented the award to Johnston. Book spoke about the characteristics of the Citizen of the Year and how Johnston has repeatedly helped his community whenever needed. Through his volunteerism with OMI and all things Oxford, he has made a lasting impact on the community.

Jay Kennedy, an Oxford Library board member, presented the Business of the Year Award to the Sanders Team Realty. The Sanders Team Realty was founded by Jeff Sanders in 2018, and his wife Corrie joined him in 2022. Together they have built a successful real estate team, which has a passion for helping others. They also have three children.

The Sanders Team was recognized for a strong commitment to their real estate clients, their involvement serving on several boards including the Oxford Area Recreational Authority, Neighborhood Services Center and the Oxford Area Historical Association.  

Kennedy said, “Their popular Taco Bout it Tuesday serves as a spotlight on other businesses and non-profits, not their own. They are visible in the community and they support many non-profit organizations and events.”

LCH Health & Community Services is this year’s recipient of the the Organization of the Year Award.

McCartney shared the incredible story of LCH over the past 53 years. Twenty-four LCH staff members who were hiding in the lower level came forward to surprise CEO Ronan Gannon and the board members who were in attendance.

McCartney talked about the visionary start for LCH in Kennett Square 53 years ago and how the organization has grown and expanded to provide health care for everyone, including women’s health, behavioral health, dental, pharmacy services and more. Gannon accepted the award on behalf of the entire LCH team.
Another important person during the Awards Dinner Dance was Angie Lobb, of Cameron’s Ace Hardware, who was recognized for serving on the Chamber Board of Directors since 2004.

The Oxford Chamber also thanked 1865 Photography, T & M Catering and the The Barn at Nottingham.