Chamber's annual banquet was a bright spot
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Pat Hatcher, director of the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce, above, talked about the past year and looked forward to the year ahead during the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce's annual banquet Tuesday evening at the Eagles Nest Event Center. Below, Dan Surface was the evening's keynote speaker.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In an uncertain economic climate, Tuesday’s Columbia City Chamber of Commerce annual banquet was a bright spot – down to the yellow smiley faces scattered throughout the Eagles Nest Event Center.
“We feel your pain when times are tough,” said Pat Hatcher, director of the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce as she addressed those in attendance, “but tonight we’re gonna rejoice.” 
Hatcher thanked all of the elected officials in attendance as well as the staff and board members. Hatcher said she looked forward to the coming year and the changes it brings, including new software, an updated website, the fact that many members now receive their newsletter via e-mail and bundling of sponsorships. Hatcher said that instead of members being solicited to sponsor events several times a year, they will not have the option to sponsor just once.
Additionally, Hatcher reflected on the past year, pointing to photographs that showed onscreen throughout the year depicting ribbon cuttings, Business of the Month celebrations and other Chamber events such as the golf outing and Fire & Ice Festival.
Chamber board president June Keiser addressed the audience and said, “We desire to see Columbia City as a place of courage and hope.” Keiser added that the Chamber is an active partner in making Columbia City a great place to live and work.
It was announced that Jack Moore will serve as the Chamber board president for the coming year, joined on the board by John Meister, Melinda Woll, Deb Roy, Jim Banks, Bill Fulk, Teresa Ladd, Judy Moore, Franz Morsches, Ben Romine, Jay Starr, Grant Trier and Cari Wells.
Taking the podium, Jack Moore urged Chamber members to be more engaged in the coming year through volunteerism for the Chamber or by helping to solicit more members.
Outgoing board members were recognized for their contributions, including Nancy Reiff, Steve Baker, Bob McGregor, David Smith, Walt Sterneman and Matt Rentschler.
Melinda Woll, chair of the Ambassadors committee recognized them for their involvement in ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings and Business of the Month events. Ambassadors include Cari Wells, Carrie Hoffman, Kristi Maloney, Randy Holler, Sue Roman, Greg Fahl, Ryan Mays, Jorell Tucker, Susan Frantz, Trudy Miller-Longhenry, Lee Aumsbaugh, June Keiser and Nancy Reiff. Woll also announced that Sue Roman was named Ambassador of the Year.
The Jewel of the Community award, given to the non-profit entity that has given greatly to the community, was presented to the Whitley County Humane Society.
The President’s Award was presented to Kay Fleck, executive director of Passages, Inc. for her longtime dedication to improving the lives of people with disabilities. Fleck was not in attendance, but the award was given to her early and the presentation was recorded and shared during the banquet.
The Small Business of the Year award went to J&K Communications. The award was accepted by owner Jon Shew.
The Large Business of the Year award went to Parkview Whitley Hospital and was accepted by John Meister, the hospital’s chief operations officer.
Following the presentation of awards, inspirational speaker and business coach Dan Surface entertained the audience, bringing smiles to faces and a little laughter as well.
At the conclusion of the evening, a cornhole game was given to door prize winner Trudy Miller-Longhenry. The prize was sponsored by First Source Bank.