he Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce is preparing to recognize outstanding businesses and individuals in the region. Their annual award gala, set for May 8th, will highlight the achievements of local leaders and businesses. Award sponsors have announced the three finalists for each of the seven different awards to be presented that evening.

The Lima Allen County Chamber of Commerce is rolling out a new program geared for businessmen. With the longtime success of "Women in Business," the chamber is kicking off "Men in Business." It will be held quarterly from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the City Club. It is designed to bring not only businessmen but businesswomen together to promote new and current businesses with networking and speakers with strategies for success.

The Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce wants local business leaders to mark their calendars and join them for the Big 7 Regional Thought Roundtable. Last year it was six state department leaders, and this year they have added another, making it seven. These leaders in state government will be coming to Lima to hear from regional businesses about what they need to be successful. Some in attendance will be from the Ohio Council of Merchants, the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, and the Ohio Manufacturers Association.

Think of it as a digital business card. That was the message Friday at the Lima Allen County Chambers monthly Wake, Rattle, and Roll. "ZoomInfo" vice president of government and regulatory affairs Bubba Nunnery spoke about the advantages of using digital networking sources. It helps with sales to find customers, it helps with marketing their products and services, and it helps with the recruitment of employees.

Tonight we take a look at the 2024 Woman-Owned Business of the Year Award sponsored by Huntington National Bank.