The White Lake Area Chamber & Visitor's Bureau announced its 2026 award recipients at its annual dinner Monday, Oct. 19, at the Curly Horse American Bistro at the Double JJ Resort, headlined by the Legacy Award presented to Dave Rypma and his family, recognizing their many years of service at the former Don Rypma Chevrolet GMC.
Dave and his brother Harlan closed 55 years of the Rypma family's time as area business owners in 2025 when they sold the dealership to the Wyatt family from Manistee, but the Legacy Award honors the many years of support the Rypma dealership provided to community organizations and events, in addition to Dave's time serving on the Chamber's Board of Directors.
Jenna and Rob Sorensen of White Lake Nutrition were the recipients of the Entrepreneur of the Year award, which recognizes local businesses who contribute to the area through creativity, dedication and vision. In addition to their work with White Lake Nutrition, the Sorensens were honored for the community events they've helped to grow, including the White Lake Fit running group, the Bridge & Bloom Project and the Run White Lake 5K.
Kara Smith, owner of the Gnarly Heifer restaurant in Whitehall, received the Lady Laker Award, presented to a woman who makes a difference through leadership and dedication to others. Smith was honored for her restaurant as well as support of other local businesses and community initiatives. One of the people who nominated Smith for the award referred to her as the "unofficial head cheerleader for White Lake."
Steven Salter, who was Whitehall's mayor from 2021-25, received the El Award, which honors a community member whose service reflects the spirit of its namesake, former Chamber director Eleanor Polley. Salter received the award for his support of community projects such as the Goodrich Park splash pad and Whitehall's social district, as well as his time tending flowers with the Chamber's Petunia Patrol.
The Chamber also recognized its entire Board of Directors for their service, presenting an Appreciation Award to Old Channel Inn owner Trish Schroeder, who concluded two three-year board terms this year.
In her remarks, Chamber Executive Director Stephanie Ware reflected on another memorable year for the organization, including the return of the White Lake Area Maritime Festival after a 14-year absence. The three-day festival was made possible through the support of sponsors, volunteers, businesses, and community partners who believed in bringing the tradition back to White Lake.
Ware also recognized the Chamber's small staff and the many community members who continue to volunteer their time and expertise to support the organization's work.
"To truly love what you do is a gift, but to get to do that job in the very community you love, live in, and believe in so much is something I will never take for granted," Ware shared.
She also reflected on the generosity of those who continually step forward to help with Chamber events and initiatives.
"Community doesn't just happen," Ware said. "It takes people who care enough to make things happen, and I'm reminded of that so often by all of you."
