The Marble Falls Chamber of Commerce rolled out the red-carpet Feb. 20 for an evening of celebration and high-spirited fun during its annual Awards Banquet, held at the Round Mountain Cider Mill.
With a lively theme of “Decades of Prom – Casino Night!” guests arrived dressed to impress, blending promnight glamour with the glitz of a classic casino.
From sparkling décor to the shuffle of cards and laughter around gaming tables, the evening carried both nostalgia and energy, a fitting backdrop for recognizing the people and organizations shaping the future of Marble Falls.
Business of the Year was awarded to Petco, recognized for its continued investment in the local community and commitment to serving both pets and their people.
The Nonprofit of the Year honor went to the Hill Country Humane Society, a cornerstone organization dedicated to animal welfare across the Highland Lakes. Executive Director Paighton Corley shared her gratitude with attendees.
“Hill Country Humane Society is honored to be named Non-Profit of the Year. This recognition belongs to our dedicated staff, volunteers, partners, and the Highland Lakes community that supports animals every day,” she said. “As a high-intake, no-kill shelter, we balance lifesaving care with responsible placements and long-term solutions to pet overpopulation.
“This year, we expanded access to affordable veterinary services through increased spay and neuter availability, vaccination and microchip clinics, and our Mobile Adoption & Surgical Hospital (MASH),” she added. “Inside our shelter, we remain committed to thoughtful adoptions and compassionate care. Thank you to our supporters because of you, lives are changed every day.”
Corley’s leadership was further recognized when she was named Citizen of the Year, an honor she humbly redirected toward her team and community.
“This work is never done alone,” Corley shared. “It belongs to the people who show up every day to make a difference.”
Josh Anger of Harmonies Start & Sound was recognized as Ambassador of the Year for his enthusiastic representation of the chamber and his consistent support of local businesses and events throughout the year.
Accepting the award, Anger said, “While I don’t do this for recognition, I am truly honored to accept this award. Thank you.”
His steady presence at ribbon cuttings, community gatherings, and Chamber initiatives has made him a familiar and appreciated face in the Marble Falls business community.
A meaningful moment came with the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to the late Fire Chief Michael Phillips, honoring a legacy of steadfast service. Phillips died on duty during the July 2025 flood.
Throughout the evening, guests visited between casino tables, congratulated award recipients and reflected on the steady growth and resilience of the local business and nonprofit community. The annual banquet serves as a practical reminder that Marble Falls’ strength lies in people who invest their time, expertise and leadership into the place they call home — work that continues long after the lights dim and the tables are cleared.
