Perry County Chamber Honors Local Businesses, Highlights Flood Recovery
The Hazard Perry County Chamber of Commerce held its annual business appreciation luncheon Wednesday, recognizing local companies and organizations for service, longevity, and resilience after the February flood and other natural disasters. The awards spotlighted businesses that play central roles in community services and economic recovery, offering a boost to local morale and small business visibility.
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The Hazard Perry County Chamber of Commerce celebrated a cross section of the county business community at its annual business appreciation luncheon Wednesday, awarding honors to firms and organizations noted for service, longevity, and resiliency following the February flood and other natural disasters. The event underscored the role of local businesses in sustaining services and supporting recovery in Perry County.
President of the Chamber Janet Smith addressed attendees and praised the community for coming together. “They’re just wonderful people and they deserve to be honored,” Smith said. “They do so much for our area and our region. We just want to really let them know how special they are to us.” Her remarks framed the luncheon as both recognition and encouragement for businesses still working through the economic and logistical impacts of recent storms.
Among the honorees WYMT was recognized as Best Established Business after celebrating its 40th anniversary earlier this month. Other winners reported by the Chamber included 1st Trust Bank for Best Service Business large to medium, Coal Fields Landscaping for Best Service Business small, Belcher and Boudreaux for Best Retail Business, Hazard Health and Rehabilitation Center and Primary Care Centers of Kentucky tied for Best Healthcare Provider, Appalachian Arts Alliance for Best Nonprofit civic and government organization, and Beverly Aesthetics for Best New Member.
For Perry County residents the awards carry practical significance beyond recognition. Banking and service firms help restore credit access and finance rebuilding. Healthcare providers maintain access to care for older and medically vulnerable residents, a crucial element when natural disasters strain infrastructure. Retail and trade businesses provide everyday goods and local employment, while nonprofit and arts organizations contribute to community cohesion and attraction of visitors. Small business recognition from the Chamber can translate into increased local patronage and visibility that support short term recovery and longer term stability.
The luncheon also acted as a visible signal to policymakers and regional partners that Perry County businesses remain active and deserving of continued support. Chambers typically play a role in coordinating resources, advocating for recovery funding, and connecting businesses with technical assistance. In a county recovering from flood damage, such networks can help move repair projects, reestablish supply chains, and sustain local job opportunities.
Organizers and attendees described the event as a morale boost for a community still rebuilding. By spotlighting established firms and newcomers alike the Chamber aimed to reinforce a message of resilience and to encourage residents to keep their spending and support local. As recovery moves from emergency response to long term rebuilding, the businesses honored Wednesday will be among those shaping Perry County economic health in the months ahead.
