The Public Relations Dinner is a highly anticipated event for SBW members and the community. Each year, we invite public officials to join us for the announcement and celebration of “Woman of the Year” and “Business/Employer of the Year.”
Robin Balke received the Woman of the Year award for 2022-2023. In her introduction, Public Relations Chair Lori Haney said, “…this year’s recipient left her indelible mark on this organization and countless others. This woman is a leader in nearly all aspects of her life. Leading by example professionally and through her service to our community.”
Robin Balke and Dianne Simon 
Lori Haney, Robin Balke, and Betty Albrecht 
Betty presenting bouquet to Robin
“I try to keep my focus to things that are important to me or speak to me on some level.” Robin Balke, Woman of the Year
Furnell Companies was named 2022 – 2023 Employer/Business of the Year. Charity and community have been important to David and the Furnell family, and he has excelled in his support for “employee causes.” If employees have a desire to personally be involved in a community project or organization, we are supported in our endeavors. He never misses an opportunity to support the myriad of fundraisers and events from sponsoring sports teams, Boy Scout projects, music events, PTA’s, Girl Scout cookies, and any other opportunities for the children of his employees. He has donated his time, money, and personal knowledge to help with projects. Furnell employees describe David as an employer who sees them as professionals and helps them to grow personally and professionally through training and development opportunities.
