GREENCASTLE – Thursday, 14 September 2023, the Franklin County Area Development Corporation hosted its 35^th annual Industry Appreciation Dinner at Green Grove Gardens in front of a sold-out crowd of 460 business and civic leaders.  The intent of the dinner is to recognize the invaluable contributions made by businesses that enhance the quality of life across Franklin County.  Two businesses, one small and one large, received special recognition along with the 29^th recipient of the prestigious Zane A. Miller Award.

Rodney B. Smith Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, Inc. was awarded the 2023 Small Business of the Year.  Founded in 1983 and currently located at 940 Hollywell Avenue, Chambersburg, the company has grown into one of the area’s leading mechanical contractors.  With 60 full-time employees, RB Smith provides a full range of residential and commercial HVAC services.  In addition, the company is active civically supporting non-profits including Chambersburg Ice Fest, Cumberland Valley Breast Care Alliance Special Olympics, and the Salvation Army among others.

Fil-Tec, Inc. was the recipient of the Large Business of the Year.  Operating within five key industry sectors-industrial thread; power & fiber optic cables; embroidery & quilting; high temperature; and candle wicks-Fil-Tec’s products touch our everyday lives.  Located in the Wharf Road Industrial Park, Zullinger since 2014, the company operates in three buildings that total 100,000 square feet.  Earlier this year, the Company made the exciting decision to produce its own line of candles using their patented Open-Wick technology. The Cue candle line was featured on the August 16^th episode of NBC’s Today Show.  Fil-Tec employs 100 associates.  Fil-Tec is actively engaged in the community supporting United Way of Franklin County, Main Street Waynesboro, the Greater Waynesboro Chamber of Commerce, and the Cumberland Valley Business Alliance.

Bonita (Bonnie) Zehler, Executive Director, Luminest was the 29^th recipient of the Zane A. Miller Award.  The award is the most prestigious award given by the FCADC and it is to recognize a person who has made uniquely outstanding contributions that have impacted the economic and community vitality of Franklin County.  With a career that has spanned 33+ years, the Waynesboro native has been the leader in developing affordable housing that has benefitted under-represented and marginalized populations.  In addition, she has volunteered her time in leadership capacities with United Way of Franklin County, Occupational Services, and both the Waynesboro Hospital and Waynesboro YMCA among others.