Martin Stands Out at Inaugural NWTN Tourism Awards
City Businesses and Leaders Earn Top Regional Recognition
Martin, Tenn. April 11th — The City of Martin proudly took center stage at the inaugural Northwest Tennessee (NWTN) Tourism Cornerstone Awards on April 10th, celebrating a strong presence in the region. With over 200 nominations submitted across 14 categories, Martin emerged as the most represented and most nominated city of the evening—highlighting the Martin’s significant impact in shaping the region’s hospitality, dining, shopping, and tourism. Martin was named a finalist in 8 of the 14 award categories and brought home two wins.
Martin Award Winners and Finalists Include:
Winner: Cornerstone Star for Dining – Alan Laderman – Sammies, The Grind Mac & Cheese Burger Bar, Woodfire Pizza Kitchen
Laderman’s innovative concepts have brought new energy to Martin’s food scene. From gourmet burgers at The Grind to innovative pizzas at Woodfire Pizza Kitchen, Laderman continues to create experiences that make Martin a must-visit destination.
Winner: Cornerstone Volunteer Star – Alicia Pinto
A dedicated community volunteer and long-time member of the Tennessee Soybean Festival Committee, Alicia Pinto was recognized for her outstanding service to Martin. Her impact has helped the festival grow into one of the region’s most celebrated events.
Finalist: Cornerstone Champion for Dining & Cornerstone Star in Dining
Blake Stoker – Blake’s at Southern Milling Blake Stoker was honored as a finalist in both the Cornerstone Champion and Cornerstone Star dining categories. What began as a food truck has grown into Blake’s at Southern Milling—now one of the area’s top dining destinations. Known for its Texas-inspired BBQ, scratch-made desserts, and handcrafted cocktails, the restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored historic building and continues to attract food lovers from across the region.
Finalist: Cornerstone Champion in Shopping & Cornerstone Star in Shopping
Sharon Maloan – Sugar & Spice & Martin Running Company Sharon Maloan was named a finalist in both the Cornerstone Champion and Cornerstone Star shopping categories for her outstanding contributions to Martin’s retail landscape. As the owner of Sugar & Spice—a beloved downtown boutique for over 30 years, Maloan has built a business that blends timeless style with personalized service. Her deep community ties and dedication to creating meaningful shopping experiences have made her store a must-visit destination.
Finalist – Cornerstone Champion: Event/Festival
Tennessee Soybean Festival Now in its 32nd year, the Tennessee Soybean Festival has grown into one of Northwest Tennessee’s most celebrated and well-attended events. Drawing more than 25,000 attendees annually, the weeklong festival showcases the region’s agricultural roots alongside live music, arts, food, and community traditions. With a growing emphasis on tourism and expanded programming, the festival continues to be a major driver of economic impact and regional pride.
Star Cornerstone Champion – DMO
Finalist: Martin Business Association
Originally founded by Mayor Randy Brundige, the Martin Business Association (MBA) has evolved into a regional leader in tourism and event marketing. Under the guidance of Camille Noe and Brad Thompson, MBA is a partner with the City of Martin and helps promote local and regional tourism to the area.
Martin’s impact was felt throughout the event, which was emceed by local entrepreneurs Suzanne Harper and Courtney Echols of Extra Credit Team Solutions and catered by Martin’s own bakery, Local Street Cookie Co.
“Our city is proud to be a dining and shopping hub for Northwest Tennessee,” said Mayor Randy Brundige. “These awards show how our businesses, events, and volunteers are shaping regional tourism and putting Martin on the map.”
With a growing online presence through cityofmartin.net/visitmartintn and strategic promotion, Martin continues to attract attention from across the region. Each of the finalists and winners represent more than just a nomination—they are dedicated community partners that drive tourism, create memorable experiences, and contribute to the city’s growing success.
To learn more about the awards, visit: nwtntourism.com/cornerstone-awards.
Please follow the City of Martin on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on community news or call Martin City Hall at (731) 587-3126 with questions.
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