Irish Hills Chamber Celebrates Community Leadership at 2026 Better Together Awards
The Irish Hills Regional Chamber of Commerce recently brought the community together for one of its most meaningful events of the year—the 2026 Better Together Community Awards, held at the beautiful White Birch Wedding Barn.
The evening was a celebration of the people, businesses, and organizations that continue to make the Irish Hills a strong, connected, and thriving place to live, work, and prosper. From dedicated community leaders to growing local businesses, each honoree represents the impact of hard work, service, and commitment to the region.
“Tonight is a celebration of the people and businesses that make this Irish Hills community what it is,” said Cindy Hubbell, President/CEO of the Irish Hills Regional Chamber of Commerce.
2026 Award Honorees
- Kraig Hardcastle — Citizen of the Year
- Bank Michigan — Business of the Year
- Eineder Funeral Homes — Heart of the Community
- Blackbird Cafe & Baking Company — Gem of the Community (Emerald Award)
- Brooklyn Kiwanis Club — Organization of the Year
Community Impact Awards
- Mike Hill — Hills Heart O’ the Lakes Golf Course
- Claudia Connors — The Highland Inn
- Ken Gauci Sr. — Gauci Golf Resort
Spruce Awards
Recognizing beautification, restoration, and continued investment across the Irish Hills:
- Village of Brooklyn’s Swain Memorial Park
- Cambridge Junction Historical State Park — Walker Tavern Historic Site
- Brooklyn Yoga
- Manitou Beach Historical Society
- Four Corners Coffee
- Irish Hills Wedding Chapel
- B.C. Pizza of Brooklyn
- Ross Family Dentistry
- Lane View Farms
- Irish Hills Eagles #3689
- Star Theatre
- City Saloon
- Cherry Creek Cellars
- ERA Reardon Realty
The Chamber extends its appreciation to event sponsors Sandhill Legacy Planning, PLLC and Marc Daly, Realtor® – Daly Advantage with Coldwell Banker Beiswanger Realty, who also served as emcee for the evening. Catering was provided by Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, helping create a memorable experience for all in attendance.
Special thanks also go to auctioneer Ridge Bollheimer for bringing energy to the dessert auction, and to Leo J. Brown for capturing the evening.
Events like the Better Together Community Awards are a reminder of what makes the Irish Hills so special—the people, the connections, and the shared pride in the community we call home. Thank you to everyone who made it possible.