Board of Directors - Nevada City California

These annual awards honor businesses, organizations, and individuals who have made significant contributions to the Nevada City community through their actions, talents; and dedication. Those selected serve as role models for compassion; service, and desire to make the world a better place. The winners below were selected by the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

2021 Awards

Artist Judith Lowery is the recipient of the prestigious Elza Kilroy Award for her significant contributions as both an artist, patron of the local arts, and work with the Nevada City Nisenan Rancheria. The Kilroy award, established in 1969, is given annually to a citizen or organization whose efforts help make Nevada City a better
community.

Real Estate broker and philanthropist, Mimi Simmons will receive the Dave Irons Lifetime Achievement Award for her dedication to the quality of life in Nevada City, generous support of Nevada City youth, and enduring support of the Nevada City Chamber. Named for long-time Chamber board member and community arts leader Dave Irons, this award celebrates those in our community who have dedicated their life to serving the residents of Nevada City.

Other 2022 recipients are:
– The Nevada Theatre, along with artists Sarah Coleman, Miles Toland and Brianna French are being honored with the Dr. Leland and Sally Lewis Visual Arts Award for the beautiful new mural inside the Nevada Theatre.
– The Mines Foundry Cultural Center is the recipient of the Dr. Leland and Sally Lewis Performing Arts Award for their long-time contribution–as the heart of arts and culture in Nevada City, hosting and producing more than 400 events a year.
– The National Exchange Hotel is being recognized with the annual Stan Halls Architectural Award for their extensive, three-year, floor-to-rafters renovation of one of the oldest continuously operated hotels in the West
– Nevada City-musician Aaron Ross is the recipient of the Live Music Award. Ross has been a force for eclecticism inspiring generations of local bands and musicians.

New Awards:
This year the Chamber board has created two new awards – Business of the Year and New Business of the Year – to recognize Nevada City’s most dynamic businesses and business leaders who share a commitment to professional excellence, business growth and the community.

– The Business of the Year award goes to Emily’s Catering and Cakes for their innovative and community-minded “Cookies for a Cause” which partnered with a different group/organization each month and pledged $1 from every sale of any of their house cookies during that month. It brought awareness and built camaraderie
during a difficult time for all.
– The New Business of the Year is Sunroom and Levity Resource. The two businesses teamed up to renovate an old retail space in the 7-Hills business district and create a nurturing environment offering massage, body care products, and more made by local and regional artisans, plus an abundance of indoor plants. They also collaborated with other local small businesses to offer gift cards and giveaways, both building and strengthening the downtown and 7-Hill business district.
– Also new this year is the Community Service Award is for an individual with an unyielding dedication to community service, and to improving the lives of others in Nevada City. Members of the community are being asked to nominate someone via the Nevada City Chamber’s website – deadline is January 15th and the winner will be announced at the Chamber’s 120th annual Installation and Awards Dinner on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at the Miners Foundry Cultural Center.