The Carmi Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year award is a prestigious recognition of an individual or individuals who are selfless, positive, and outstanding leaders in the community—someone who is committed to helping better the community and the people in it.
This year’s winner is no exception. Though he loves to be in the background of events, this individual deserved this moment, and many others, to shine like the bright star he is, front and center.
Vice President of the Carmi Chamber of Commerce, Beth Conner, presented the award for this year, but not before reading an excerpt from the nomination.
“This person has devoted more than 25 years using their power for good, not evil, in the community. The nominee’s fingerprints can be seen far and wide in the region, serving on every board and committee possible to help our community. The nominee goes about doing kind things for others that no one even knows about. Things that are not have tos, but just because the nominee has a big heart for the people and animals of Carmi.”
From putting countless hours into the many different boards in Carmi he has been a part of, to showing how big his heart is at Pets at Risk, Conner continues by sharing,
“Naming him Citizen of the Year doesn’t just honor what he has done, it acknowledges who he is and the lasting legacy he continues to build every single day.”
The winner of the 2025 Carmi Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year award was Jc Tinsley, a man who has dedicated his time and effort to helping others and bringing news to the community. His work has significantly impacted the community, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference.
A standing ovation and round of applause filled the Carmi VFW. Not only was he surprised by the nomination and win, but also by the love of the community and the surprise of his three daughters.
Tinsley shared his appreciation for the award,
“I would much prefer to be a kingmaker, not a king, but thank you. I appreciate it. I love Carmi, it’s my home. This community is why I do everything. I don’t deserve this, I appreciate it. There are so many other people that deserve it that are out there doing stuff to make a difference. And Luke was right, it’s going to take all of us. Thank you.”