Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce honored Heartwood Gallery owner Shelley Dekay as its 2012 Chamber Member of the Year last week during its annual chamber banquet.

In her nomination of Dekay, Saluda realtor Cathy Jackson said Dekay has been an integral part of the Saluda business community for several decades.

“Her passion and enthusiasm for handmade and American craft has turned her small, weaving business into one of the most recognized and successful businesses in western North Carolina for offering high quality, American art and craft merchandise,” Jackson said. “As a Main Street business, she has initiated and promoted projects that have not only supported other businesses in Saluda, but also have enriched the community.”

Chamber members gathered Thursday, Feb. 21 at the Melrose Inn in Tryon to recognize business owners who contributed to the community in 2012.

Chamber director Janet Sciacca said she wants members to encourage new and existing businesses to see the value of participation in the chamber.

“We are a great resource for new young businesses, and offer a lot of services with membership,” said Sciacca. “And for those very successful businesses who think they don’t need the chamber, well, the chamber needs you.  We need you to be a part of the chamber, and that helps us to help others … The support we have here in our business community, is thriving, and it’s what keeps me going every day.”