The 2019 Kinston-Lenoir County Chamber of Commerce award recipients are, from left, Steve Lovick, Kathryn Boyd-Vick, Constance Hengel, Robert A. Swinson IV and Elmer Starkley. Standing next to Swinson IV is his father, Robert A. Swinson III. Photo by Junious Smith III / Neuse News

By Junious Smith III

A group of Lenoir County’s finest received awards for their hard work across the area.

The 2019 Kinston-Lenoir County Chamber of Commerce Awards Ceremony took place Thursday at King’s Restaurant, honoring local businesses and individuals. The first award went to Elmer Starkley, owner of Ziggy Dogs, who received Microenterprise of the Year honors.

“For me, it means I’m a part of Kinston I never thought I’d be a part of,” Starkley said. “It’s an honor and feels good that I’m doing something for the community I’ve been a part of forever.”

Kathryn Boyd-Vick, executive assistant to Stephen Hill at Hillco, Ltd., was given the Administrative Professional of the Year award.

“This was a true surprise and a wonderful honor,” she said. “The main thing is I enjoy my job and to receive an award for it is such a blessing. I’m truly thankful to work here in Lenoir County.

The 2019 Minority Business of the Year award went to R. Swinson Funeral Services, which is approaching its 50-year anniversary on April 1.

“It’s a great honor, being we’ve been in Kinston for about 50 years,” President Robbie Swinson said. “It’s good to be recognized — there are so many minority businesses that could’ve gotten this award, and I’m just glad we were able to be recognized for the work we’ve done.”

The Small Business of the Year Award went to Lovick’s Café, which took owner Steve Lovick by surprise.

“I’m thinking about my grandfather, who started it in ’41, my dad who quit school in eighth grade and was there his whole life, my brother who was there 15 years, my sister all her life,” Lovick said. “It’s just special when your community seeks out and recognizes you for an award like this. It’s really humbling for the Lovick family.”

Constance Hengel, UNC Lenoir Minges Wellness Center Director, was given the Pinnacle of Achievement Award and said it was a true blessing.

“I am humbled, overwhelmed and so appreciative to be recognized in this way,” Hengel said. “I love what I do, love who I work for and love this community, so it’s just a joy for me every day to do the work. I’m filled with gratitude.”