Frontline Heroes ceremony set for June 13 in downtown Cartersville

Article by MARIE NESMITH, Daily Tribune News

On June 13, the Frontline Heroes project will highlight 11 “remarkable” individuals who made an impact during the COVID-19 pandemic. Founded by Cartersville resident Chastity Maney, the outreach is being assisted by Valli Millsaps, owner of Wall to Wall Frames.

“I am very pleased with the outcome for our Frontline Heroes project,” Maney said. “I think the winners are very deserving as they have made huge impacts on our community. The heroes’ volunteer work ranges from providing meals to the needy, to taking care of our high school seniors, to supporting downtown business.”

The frontline heroes include Glenda Mitchell, attorney; Jeff Tindall, Red Door Food Pantry; Buddy Frederick and his son, Jayson, Southern Cove; Pamela Whitfield, Will2Way Foundation; Bailey Beaver, BLESS Coalition; Jenny Petersen, Adopt-a-Senior; Lara Jeanneret, Lara J Designs; Robert Adams, Cartersville Antique Gallery; Daryl Roberts, LIVE 2540; and David Franklin, Bartow Baptist Association. From May 13 to 25, the contest accepted nominations from the public, with the individuals receiving the most nods being deemed the winners.

Starting at 11 a.m., the ceremony at Friendship Plaza in downtown Cartersville will pay tribute to these heroes by presenting them a custom-framed portrait. The images currently are on display in the window of the Millsaps’ shop at 14 S. Wall St. in downtown Cartersville.

“We are hoping that the community will join us with a drive-by parade — honk, wave and celebrate your heroes from a distance,” Maney said. “The heroes have supported us, now let’s support them.

“I am so happy with the feedback we have received for this initiative. The community has really come together. Cartersville continues to shine, even through a pandemic.”

Like Maney, Millsaps also is thrilled to be a part of this effort to recognize those who have gone above and beyond to help others during the pandemic.

“I have all the framed porch portraits in my front window at Wall to Wall Frames,” she said. “Randy Parker captures beautiful images. I am sure the heroes will love them. I encourage everyone to stop by the shop and see all of their beautiful faces.

“And thank you to our community for acknowledging and sharing the stories of these [11] remarkable people. We had many others and look forward to more events, like this, to have another ‘shout out’ to the people that take time out of their busy lives to volunteer their time towards the betterment of our county.”