From Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.–Two local Leeds businesses were recognized at the Business Council of Alabama and Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama’s state Small Business Awards last week.
Presented annually, the awards recognize businesses of merit based on a variety of civic endeavors, business success, and community involvement.
This year’s event was held at The Club in Birmingham on Nov. 19.
A total of 40 Alabama small businesses, 10 in each of the four categories, were named as finalists.
adr Business & Marketing Strategies, owned by Dona Bonnett, received a bronze award.
“Dona’s contributions extend far beyond chamber involvement,” adr’s nomination from the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce read.
“She has volunteered countless hours to support local businesses and increase community awareness. As the Editor of “Everyone Leeds,” a community online news and e-newsletter, Dona has spent over four years curating and publishing weekly updates on events, offerings, and providing a community calendar. Her work ensures that residents and businesses in Leeds stay informed and connected.”
Earthborn Studios, owned by Tena Payne, was also named as a finalist.
“Tena has received many awards through the years including the Enterprising Women Award, and the International Shipping Award from the Birmingham Business Alliance,” Earthborn’s nomination read.
“Publications such as Southern Living, Cooking Light, American Craft, Flower Magazine, and others have featured Tena and her team and their successes through the years. Earthborn now 27 years later provides plating to restaurants globally. From Amsterdam to Dubai to Hawaii, Tena’s pottery is recognized not only for the beauty of the earth it represents but a durable, marketable, replaceable product.”