Chamber champions Awards celebrate those who make a difference in sold-out Gala

Large Business Of The Year

recognizes a Henry County business with 26 or more employees that demonstrates achievement and innovation in management, product service development and commitment to growth in Henry County. This business is also civically engaged with the communities in the past 12 months.

Finalists: l McGowan Insurance Group l Russ Hubler Automotive

Award presenter: l Jake Adams, Jake’s Heating, Air & Plumbing

PHOTOS BY ADAM STURM THE JMETZGER GROUP

For the second time in a row, this year’s Chamber Awards Gala was sold-out, with about 350 people in attendance!

“The recognition of so many community members really resonates with people,” said Shonda Kane, the Chamber’s executive director. “This year, voting for awards was opened to Chamber members, and they were eager to single out all the people who make a difference in Henry County.”

This was the second iteration of the revamped event. Last year, the number of annual awards was broadened from two to nine, and final nominees were announced beforehand.

“That gives community members a chance to join in the celebration of friends, neighbors, and business associates,” said Latina Masters, the board president for 2023. “It was a lot of fun to be able to honor so many deserving people.”

A cocktail hour kicked of the March 22 gala, with bar service from L.A. Liquid Catering. Background music was provided by harpist Megan Biner. Dinner was catered by Ky’s Kreations, with service assistance from New Castle Career Center Culinary Program. Chamber recognitions are based on the previous year, and all organizations, businesses and individuals must be active and/or located in Henry County. Included here are the award descriptions, finalists and award recipients for 2022.

Henry County Remc

Community Culture Excellence

recognizes a Henry County workplace that has made significant strides in employee practices to establish a highly desirable work environment. The award also recognizes the company for its leadership, culture and best practices, and its demonstration of uniting people of different backgrounds and abilities, including a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Finalists: l Jake’s Heating, Air and Plumbing l Eastern Indiana Works

Award presenter: l Cara Huffman, F.C. Tucker Crossroads Real Estate, 2021 winner

Small Business Of The Year

recognizes a Henry County business with 25 or fewer employees that has been in business for more than five years. The business demonstrates achievement and potential growth and has also civically engaged with the communities in the past year.

Finalists: l MRS Heating & Cooling l The Barnett Co.

Award presenter: l Kevin Brown, Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service, 2021 winner

Individual Awards Five Who Inspire

HOSPITALITY & SERVICE EXCELLENCE AWARD

recognizes a Henry County service employee whose efforts often go unrecognized. They are the frontline at restaurants, stores and attractions. The nominees are those who help make Henry County a great place to live, work and visit.

Finalists: l Noah Carrow

Frontline Hero Of The Year

recognizes a Henry County frontline worker who has excelled in working toward the well-being of our residents and visitors in the past year. Nominees may be a volunteer or employed in the areas of health care, law enforcement, firefighting, or education.

Finalists: l Wendel Michael Jaggers l Chase Koger

New Castle Police Dept.

New Castle Police Dept.

Award presenter: l Amy Glaser

Amy Glaser State Farm l Tisha Green Primo

The Press Coffee Co.

Award presenter: l Melissa True

Henry County REMC

Entrepreneur Of The Year

recognizes a Henry County business in business 5 or fewer years. This award honors the skill, courage and determination to create a business out of an idea. It celebrates the hard work and inspiring stories of many outstanding Henry County entrepreneurs.

Finalists: l Ben & Emily Hamm l Aubrey Lindsey

The Press Coffee Co.

Ollie Lue Soap Co.

Award presenter: l Greg York Mayor of New Castle

TEMPTATIONS | Inga Neal

Young Professional Of The Year

recognizes a Henry County young professional ages 18-40. The award celebrates the accomplishments of a highly motivated, emerging leader from Henry County. Nominees demonstrate excellence, creativity and show initiative in their company or profession.

Finalists: l Aubrey Lindsey l Casey Richards Memorial Park

Ollie Lue Soap Co.

Award presenter: l Cindy Brooks Chamber of Commerce

Citizen Of The Year

recognizes a Henry County citizen who, through their personal involvement, leadership abilities, and selfless giving of their time and talent, has positively affected Henry County and the lives of its citizens. The award honors a recent effort resulting in a substantial benefit to the county, and a steady, reliable long-term history of service.

Finalists: l Rex & Cathy Crabtree l William R. Colvin l Angela Bertram Smith

Award presenter: l Debi Ware, 2021 winner

COMMUNITY NON-PROFIT

recognizes a Henry County non-profit organization that has made outstanding contributions to the county. This organization, over the previous 12 months, has positively affected Henry County and the lives of its citizens. The organization has a reputation for integrity in its dealings with clients, volunteers, staff or other individual groups. The organization must be an active 501(c) organization.

Finalists: l New Castle Little League l Kiwanis Club l Art Association of Henry County

Award presenter: l Cathy Crabtree, representing New Castle Evening Optimists, 2021 winner