Six individuals and two businesses who were nominated by the public and chosen by the Berkeley Springs-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce as Community Award winners will be honored at a community awards banquet on Thursday, September 18 at The Country Inn. The Morganite award winner – the top local community award level — will be revealed during the banquet. 
Community award winners will also serve as grand marshals for the 50th annual Apple Butter Festival parade on Saturday, October 11.
Apple Butter Festival Volunteer of the Year – Sabrena Funk
Sabrena Funk has been a tireless supporter of the Apple Butter Festival for many years, in different areas including the beer garden, where you can often find her serving up a cold one with her signature smile. She’s helped at the quilt booth, judged the beard contest, built Chamber parade floats, and has even been part of planning the festival itself.
As a nominator put it, “Sabrena does it all, and she does it with a big smile, whether she’s lending a hand behind the scenes or helping festival-goers find their favorite food or vendor.”
Educator of the Year –
Robert (Bob) Myers
Bob Myers has gone above and beyond in his work to educate and inspire local students. Since joining Berkeley Springs High School in 2019 as the music teacher, Myers has been “always there – ready to help, ready to teach, ready to lead,” as one nominator put it. Known for cheering on his students and offering encouragement, he brings a unique perspective by “looking through the eyes of the students” and pouring his love of music into everything he does. Myers also shares his talents with the whole community, leading the Berkeley Springs High School Marching Band in the Apple Butter Festival parade and kicking off the festival on the main stage.
Employee of the Year –
Mike Potter
Mike Potter has dedicated more than 50 years to U.S. Silica, serving as a group leader in the quarry and taking great pride in his work. Every morning, Potter makes sure the equipment and environment are safe before his team begins, leading by example and keeping safety at the forefront.
“For a person to dedicate 50 years to a company is unheard of,” wrote a nominator. Potter loves his job, and it shows in the care he brings to his coworkers, his company, and his community.
Small Business –
CJ’s Floral & Gift Shop
CJ’s Floral & Gift Shop, owned and operated by Carol Kreit, has been serving Berkeley Springs with beautiful flowers and thoughtful gifts for 27 years. “Carol always goes out of her way to help her customers and the community,” shared one nominator. Whether volunteering, donating to fundraisers and events, or simply brightening someone’s day with her work, Kreits’ commitment extends far beyond her shop doors.
Large Business –
The Country Inn
With its guest rooms, spa, restaurants, gardens, and event spaces, The Country Inn welcomes both locals and visitors year-round. The Omps family, and especially general manager Matt Omps, have brought the Inn back to life, restoring it as both a centerpiece of our community and a thriving business.
As a nominator shared, “The Country Inn is a staple of the town. While other restaurants close on days when tourists may not be here, the Inn remains open to meet their needs. Plus, the Omps family are great people, always willing to help anyone and any organization, often not getting the recognition they deserve.”
Community Hero –
Captain Seth Place
Captain Place has been with Morgan County Sheriff’s Department for 23 years. He has served as a K-9 handler, DARE instructor, and founding member of the area’s SWAT team. He has twice received the Officer of the Year award, as well as the distinguished Life Saving Award. Beyond his law enforcement career, Capt. Place has served as a Master Sergeant for more than 20 years in the Army and Air Force. He has been deployed four times, including a year in Iraq. Capt. Place is currently deployed in the Middle East with the West Virginia Air National Guard. He also served 20 years as an EMT, 13 years as a volunteer firefighter, and continues to give back as a coach for youth sports teams. Some know him as a musician, performing with “Hymns for Him” at community events, including the Apple Butter Festival.
As one nominator wrote: “To some people, Seth is just Garrin’s dad or Breck’s hubby, but to others, he is a hero in Morgan County and his country.”
Community Service Award – Peace Blossom Judge
Peace Blossom Judge has left her mark through her leadership, creativity, and generosity. She is involved in countless community efforts, from the fairy festival and ghost tours, to her work with Morgan Arts Council, Berkeleyton Ball, and Berkeley Springs Museum.
Her “Fairy Closet” has raised hundreds of dollars to support community events and scholarships. From whimsical tea parties and children’s activities to fundraising for schools and playgrounds, Peace pours her heart into everything she does.
As one nominator wrote, “She never fails to work for those around her. She spends countless hours helping the community have fun and be lively!” Her willingness to dream big, collaborate with others, and bring joy to every project makes her a true champion for Morgan County.
Tickets for the September 18 community awards banquet are available through the Chamber office and at BerkeleySpringsChamber.com. The banquet will include dinner, recognition of the winners, and presentation of the Morganite award.
Anyone who needs more information can call the Berkeley Springs-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce at 304-258-3738.
