Dexter, Missouri - The 2016 Business of the Year was named at the annual Dexter Chamber of Commerce Awards banquet on Saturday, January 28, 2017.

"We can't express how grateful we are to have such wonderful businesses in Dexter," commented Chamber Director Aaron Mathis.  "The nominations this year showed us what a great community we have and that the citizens really appreciate our local businesses."

"Hard work and a dedicated team have made this business a very notable restaurant," continued Mathis.  "This business has truly touched the lives of many people an dhas contributed behind the scenes not wanting any credit."

The 2016 Business of the Year is Pizza Hut.

Nine years ago Phil and Pam Ternes purchased the Pizza Hut in Dexter and not have a total of 5 stores.  They provided DARE shirts for 5th graders at Central Elementary and gave certificates for pizzas for completing the Book It Reading Program.  In the late 1990s they heard that bus drivers didn't have a way of communicating on their daily routes so they donated phones for all 23 bus drivers to make it safer for children.

They have donated to 18 FORELife and host the breakfast for the Chamber of Commerce Industrial Appreciation Week.

Three years ago they gave their corporate office on Stoddard Street in downtown Dexter a facelift to help improve the look coming into the downtown area.

"With their only son by their side, Phil, Pam, and Matt have created such a fun and family atmosphere for their employees and their community," continued Mathis.

Tila Hubrecht, 151st State Representative and Billy Pat Wright, Field Representative for Senator Doug Libla were also on hand to present Missouri House and Senate Resolutions.

Congratulations to Pizza Hut as the 2016 Business of the Year!

Shown in the photo from left to right are: Hillary Starnes, Tila Hubrecht, Tony Rushin, Phil Ternes, Pam Ternes, Billy Pat Wright, and Matt Ternes.