LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Local businesses, organizations and community leaders took center stage during the 24th annual Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala, which featured a circus theme celebrating achievement and community impact.
The annual event highlighted individuals, nonprofits and businesses recognized for making a difference throughout Allen County. Chamber officials said the gala is especially important because many of the chamber’s members are small businesses that play a major role in the local community.
“Because there's so many people that are doing great work, and we want to honor them and recognize them for that, that special work that they're doing. And the chamber, you know, for 24 years, have been able to put this on and so it's real important to the Lima Allen County region that we're recognizing leaders, professionals and business owners and businesses in our region that are doing great and exceptional work to make our community a much more livable place," said Josh Unterbrink.
The Above and Beyond Award, sponsored by Tomorrow’s Technology Today, Superior Credit Union and The Lima News, was presented to Superior Credit Union.
The Agricultural Impact Award, sponsored by Nutrien, recognized the Ohio State University Extension 4-H Program as the recipient. Other nominees included 7M Farms and the University of Northwestern Ohio Ag Tech Program.
The ATHENA Award, sponsored by Lima Memorial Health System, was awarded to Bev Beery. Other nominees included Barbara Duval and Ann Meiring.
The Emerging Business of the Year Award, sponsored by State Bank, went to Wiechart Dental Smile Studio. Other finalists included Lima Social House and Unicent Marketing and Management.
The Non-Profit of the Year Award, sponsored by Cenovus Energy, was presented to Visit Greater Lima. Finalists also included the Area Agency on Aging 3 and the Lima Family YMCA.
The Small Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Citizens National Bank, was awarded to Trisco Systems, Inc.. Other nominees included Alexander & Bebout and Technical Roofing of St. Henry, LLC.
The Woman-Owned Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Huntington National Bank, was presented to All Service Glass Co.. Other finalists included Replenish & Renew and Heavenly Stitches, LLC.
The Young Leader of the Year Award, sponsored by Mercy Health, was awarded to Samuel White Jr.. Other nominees included Jessica Cunningham, Justin Walter and Rylan Ward.
