111th annual Chamber of Commerce awards recognize community, business leaders

This article is brought to you by SUTE Korean Fusion, Indiana’s premier Korean cuisine destination.

Fate was smiling on the Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce at its 111th annual awards dinner Nov. 6. At least that’s what followers of numerology would claim. Through the study of numbers and their significance in people’s lives, some believe the digits can be omens of the future.

The number one is thought to represent creation, determination, and opportunity. Three ones in a row is seen as a sign of being on the right path to reaching a goal; an appropriate outlook for the Chamber as it celebrated the businesses, entrepreneurs, and people that make the community thrive.

As members arrived at the Bel Air Events Center, they were greeted by “Moments That Matter,” a display of the past year’s successes and accomplishments that lined the lobby. The venue’s ballroom architecture, double grand staircase and chandeliers set the tone for an evening of elegance.

Courtney Butler, Chamber manager, opened the evening of celebration reminding that “it’s the moments in between that matter most’” as she prepared to introduce Cary Wawberry, the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance board chair from First Farmers Bank and Trust, who elaborated on what those moments were: the new conference center, new programs launched such as the Level Up Business Branding Program, and the continued success of the annual Strawberry Festival, which included 185 vendors and 10,000 attendees.

“When people ask, ‘How does Kokomo keep moving forward?’ the answer is simple,” said Wawberry. “It’s preparation, vision, and determination. That’s the spirit of our community. We are connectors, creators, and doers. The impact of our community’s strategic partnerships and shared vision is on full display in every project, every event and every success story.”

Caitlin Sheets, manager of the Alliance, took the stage to announce the recipient of the Economic Impact Award, saying “This award honors a business that understands real success is measured not only in profit, but in people, in jobs created, lives impacted, and a community strengthened.”

The award was presented to Community First Bank of Indiana, which has donated $165,000 to nonprofits and a total of $1.5 million in community investments since 2003.

Next was the 2025 Downtown Champions Award, which was presented to Tim and Kristin Boor of the Bohemian Tattoo Club and Bohemian Events and Entertainment.

“Together, they have brought their passion for art, entrepreneurship, and community to life, from supporting First Friday to facilitating our newest art alley activation,” said Butler. “They transformed downtown into a place where creativity and community thrive side-by-side. Their work proves that innovation, talent, and civic spirit can make a city shine.”

As Tim Boor accepted the award, he spoke of investing in creativity. “It surrounds us and affects our life in such an amazing and fulfilling way. Supporting that is never a bad cause.”

The FIRSTS Award was presented to “Mr. Kokomo” Craig Severns of Coca-Cola. And Palmer’s Jewelry won the Small Business of the Year Award for its strong community involvement and downtown presence since 1944.

Butler returned to the stage to present the Large Business of the Year Award, which she presented to Chariot Automotive Group.

“For more than 90 years, this business and its Kokomo locations have been serving our community with integrity, innovation, and a people first approach,” said Butler. “They are a true community partner, committed to developing local talent and strengthening our workforce through their ground-breaking automotive technician education pathway, a partnership with Ivy Tech Community College.”

Ivy Tech received another nod when the Business Person of the Year Award was given. Ethan Heicher, Chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College, took the prize.

“Under his leadership, (Ivy Tech) has grown enrollment, broadened program offerings, and increased dual credit opportunities, saving local families thousands of dollars while opening new pathways to success,” said Butler. “(Heicher) is a tireless advocate for educational access, economic opportunity, and collaboration.”

The Volunteer of the Year Award was humbly accepted by Josh Walden after a very long and impressive list of community involvement and achievements was read. And the Kokomo Rescue Mission received the 2025 Impact Award.

As the awards program neared its end, the prestigious Elizabeth Foster Award was presented. Named after the 19th century Kokomo founder, the award is designated to a woman who helps women in the community reach their full potential. This year’s recipient was Kasey Vincent.

“(Vincent) has a remarkable gift for connecting women, helping them grow both personally and professionally while building confidence and community along the way,” said Butler.

After a moment of appreciation for the Chamber ambassadors, the final award of the evening was Ambassador of The Year. The honoree who stood out and “consistently goes above and beyond” was Julie Keb. As Keb took the award, she recognized others, taking no credit for herself, an act that proved the award was in deserving hands.

Lori Dukes, president and CEO of the Alliance, closed the evening with a toast in honor or her daughter, who was being inducted into the National Honor Society as the Chamber’s awards ceremony took place, and other young people poised to enter the workforce and lead the community.

“If you would raise a glass with me to just say cheers to the future of those replacing us and carrying us forward,” said Dukes, encapsulating a hope and dream for the community that began 111 years ago.