PBSC Impact Award

Zulma Allen

Zulma Allen embodies the true spirit of service at Palm Beach State College, making a daily impact through kindness, compassion, and genuine care for others. Always ready with a warm smile and a helping hand, Zulma goes out of her way to support students, staff, and visitors-often before they even ask.

Known just as much for her heartfelt gestures as her dedication, Zulma’s homemade treats and thoughtful check-ins are a reminder that everyone matters. Her influence reaches far beyond campus and into the greater Glades community, proving that impact isn’t measured by recognition, but by the care you extend. It is this selfless commitment that earned her the PBSC Impact Award.

GEO Correctional Officer of the Year

Angel Johnson



Angel Johnson, recipient of the GEO Correctional Officer of the Year Award, is recognized for her professionalism, reliability, and unwavering commitment to excellence at South Bay Correctional Facility. With 10 years of dedicated service, Officer Johnson is known for her versatility, consistently performing across numerous critical posts-including Central Control, Transport, Hospital Detail, and Perimeter Rover-often stepping in wherever she is most needed.

Highly respected by staff, inmates, and visitors alike, Officer Johnson leads with consistency, calm under pressure, and a positive, team-first attitude. She also plays an active role on the Employee Engagement Committee, contributing ideas and hands-on support that strengthen workplace morale. Her ability to work with little supervision, maintain high standards, and serve others with professionalism makes her a truly deserving Officer of the Year.

PBSO Civilian Staff of the Year

Valerie Carter

The Chamber was proud to recognize Ms. Valerie Stinson-Carter as the Glades Region’s first-ever Civilian Employee of the Year, honoring her years of dedicated service with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. A Glades Central High School graduate, Valerie began her career in public safety as a 911 dispatcher and has since served in several critical administrative roles across the Glades.

Now serving as Office Manager for Belle Glade District 5, Valerie is known as a steady force who keeps operations running smoothly while supporting those around her with professionalism and heart. Her commitment, leadership, and behind-the-scenes impact make her an invaluable asset to the Glades community

West County Corrections Officer of the Year

Christoper McCrae

The Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce proudly recognized Corporal Christopher McCrae as PBSO Corrections Deputy of the Year, honoring his leadership, professionalism, and service to both the Sheriff’s Office and the Glades community. In addition, the staff of the Belle Glade Jail (West Detention Center) received their first-ever Unit Commendation from Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, recognizing outstanding community service beyond the walls of the facility.

Since joining the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office in 2022, Corporal McCrae has quickly distinguished himself-earning promotion to Corporal, serving as a trainer, and demonstrating excellence in operations within the facility. His commitment, work ethic, and leadership have set a high standard for those around him, making this recognition well earned and well deserved

BC Fire Rescue of the Year

Alex Duran

The Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce proudly honored Alex Duran as Firefighter of the Year, a distinction made especially meaningful because he was nominated by the crew who serve alongside him every day. Known for his steady leadership and calm presence, Alex is the kind of firefighter others naturally look to when situations are at their most difficult.

Beyond emergency calls, Alex is recognized for his compassion and follow-through-often checking on patients long after the incident has passed. His professionalism, empathy, and quiet dedication have earned deep respect among colleagues and the community, making this recognition well deserved.

Business of the Year

JMA Electric - Jose Avila

JMA Electric, led by owner Jose Avila, is a true Belle Glade success story built on perseverance, integrity, and community pride. Arriving from Cuba as a child, Jose grew up in Belle Glade, graduated from Glades Central High School, and learned his trade through years of hands-on experience before taking the leap to open JMA Electric in 1998.

What started as a small operation has grown into a trusted local business known for hard work and reliability. Beyond business success, Jose has consistently invested back into the community-supporting youth sports, the Rotary Club, the Chamber, and numerous local causes. His journey reflects not only entrepreneurial grit, but a deep commitment to giving back, making JMA Electric a deserving Business of the Year honoree.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Perry Yance

Perry Yance, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, has devoted his life to agriculture, faith, and service to the Glades community. Raised in a multi-generation farming family, Perry built a 41-year career with Duda Farm Fresh Foods, rising from crop scout to Vegetable Farm Manager through dedication, leadership, and deep agricultural knowledge.

Beyond his professional career, Perry has quietly given decades of service to the region-supporting agricultural boards and advisory committees, Leadership Glades Ag Day Tours, the Black Gold Jubilee, and countless community events, often working behind the scenes. A longtime member and deacon of First Baptist Church of Belle Glade, his life reflects humility, faith, and a true servant’s heart. Perry’s lasting influence on agriculture and community makes him a most deserving recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Agri-Industrial Award

Brad Wilkinson

Brad Wilkinson, recipient of the Agri-Industrial Man of the Year Award, represents nearly a century of Florida agricultural heritage paired with modern perseverance. A fifth-generation farmer, Brad’s roots trace back to the 1930s with Hull Packing Company, and agriculture has shaped every chapter of his life.

After facing profound personal loss and the sale of his family’s farms at a young age, Brad rebuilt from the ground up-leasing land, learning from seasoned mentors, and growing operations that evolved into Glory Ventures, Inc. Today, he continues to strengthen the Glades through diversified farming, job creation, and community investment, embodying the grit, leadership, and resilience that define Agri-Industrial excellence.

Citizen of the Year Award

Alice Gay

Alice Gay, recipient of the Citizen of the Year Award, is a lifelong Belle Glade resident whose life reflects deep faith, selfless service, and unwavering dedication to others. A devoted wife, mother, and former K–4 teacher at Glades Day School, Alice shaped generations of students with kindness, patience, and purpose.

Today, she serves in her God-given calling as Secretary of First Baptist Church of Belle Glade, where her faith is evident in everything she does-from keeping the church running day to day to warmly welcoming every person who walks through the doors. Guided by a true servant’s heart, Alice lives her faith through action, humility, and love, making her a most deserving Citizen of the Year.

Christmas in Taylorville

December 7, 2025 @3pm

Christmas in Taylorville is a high-energy holiday tribute show blending iconic hits from every era with festive visuals, special effects, and seasonal surprises. Perfect for families and music lovers of all ages, it’s a joyful, one-of-a-kind concert experience that’s sure to kick off the holiday season in unforgettable style. Click the link below for more information.

Click here for more info.