Melissa Hudson named Citizen of the Year at Chamber Banquet

The Blackwell Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual awards banquet Thursday, honoring several individuals within the community.

The 2023 banquet, rebranded as an “awards celebration,” took place at the Blackwell Event Center at the Kay County Fairgrounds.

It featured the Dueling Pianos Hi-Fi act, sponsored by Blackwell Dentistry, Blue Peak, Stride Bank and Hutton Pharmacy.

The Blackwell Citizen of the Year Award went to Melissa Hudson and was presented by last year’s winner, City Manager Jerry Wieland. Hudson was recognized for her dedication to the community. She spends her time helping the Blackwell Middle and High School bands and directing the Top of Oklahoma Historical Society Museum.

Greg Sixkiller, head of the Blackwell Public Power electrical department, was recognized with the “I Am Blackwell” award.

Sixkiller is involved in various organizations, including the Chamber and Leadership Blackwell groups.

Stacie Grossardt received the Volunteer of the Year Award for her continued contributions to local events.

Wheatheart Nutrition was honored as the Business of the Year, and the Chamber Director of the Year Award went to Abby Montoya.