Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Hosts 77th Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet

Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Hosts 77^th Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet
 
Over 240 leaders gathered to celebrate the Heart of Wisconsin area’s business community’s successes.
 
WISCONISN RAPIDS, WI – The Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce welcomed its Members to Hotel Mead’s Grand Ballroom for its 77^th Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet on March 6^th, 2025 to celebrate this year’s seven award winners that included; Small Business/Entrepreneur of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Innovative Business of the Year, Community Impact of the Year, Ambassador of the Year, Business Professional of the Year, and Member of the Year.
 
This year’s award categories and winners are as follows:
 
Small Business/Entrepreneur of the Year: I Heart Art Studios
This award honors a business that has demonstrated exceptional economic growth, a strong commitment to community service and leadership, and a spirit of innovation while operating with 10 or fewer employees. I Heart Art Studios proves that size is no barrier to making a significant impact. Founded by Becky Winter, a single mother and sole member of her LLC, the business has grown from its humble beginnings in 2016 into a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts in Central Wisconsin and beyond. Becky’s story is a testament to the power of art and the profound impact one individual can have on their community.
 
Large Business of the Year: Paper City Savings Bank
This award honors a business that exemplifies exceptional customer service, strong community leadership, and a commitment to innovation and growth, while employing more than 10 individuals. Serving our community for over 100 years, Paper City Savings Bank has long been a pillar of strength and reliability. They take pride in treating each client as an individual, offering personalized, thoughtful service designed to meet unique financial needs. The recent renovation of their Wisconsin Rapids headquarters and the recent relocation of their Plover branch to a more spacious office space further exemplifies their dedication to enhancing the customer experience and staying on the cutting edge of financial services. Through their dedication to both the community and their customers, Paper City Savings Bank has earned their place as an invaluable asset to our region.  
 
Innovative Business of the Year:  Chat-R-Box Catering
This award recognizes a business that promotes a culture of innovation through research and development, new processes, cutting-edge products or services and the ability to adapt to an ever-evolving marketplace. Chat-R-Box Catering exemplifies innovation and leadership in both business and community. A trailblazer in the industry, Kathi Havitz consistently adapts to trends and pushes boundaries to create a customer-focused enterprise. Kathi and Chat-R-Box Catering exemplify true innovation—not just in their products and services, but in the way they uplift their employees, embrace change and give back to the community.
 
Community Impact of the Year: United Way of South Wood & Adams Counties
This award honors a non-profit, service, or public organization that has made a lasting difference in the lives of those they serve, and that has evolved to meet the changing needs of our community. United Way of South Wood & Adams Counties was given this award in recognition of their commitment to strengthening and transforming our community. In 2024 alone, they contributed $488,000 to support local partners programs and initiatives. United Way’s programs help improve health outcomes, empower youth to realize their potential, create stronger financial futures and provide immediate support to those in need. Through these efforts, they are building a stronger, more resilient community.
 
Ambassador of the Year:  Julie Siegler
This award honors an individual whose dedication, enthusiasm, and leadership has made a lasting impact—not only on the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce but on the entire community. Julie Siegler has been a lifelong community supporter in every sense of the word. As the current Chair of the Ambassador Group, Julie plays a vital role in welcoming new businesses and ambassadors to our ambassador group by being genuine, building relationships and genuinely checking in to build connections, while ensuring the success of Chamber events. Julie’s kindness, dedication, and enthusiasm make her an invaluable asset to the Chamber.
 
Business Professional of the Year: Dan McCarville
This award recognizes an exceptional individual whose professionalism, leadership, and dedication to community service has left a lasting impact. Dan McCarville exemplifies dedication, leadership, and a commitment to serving his community. Through his work and volunteerism, he has positively impacted countless individuals and organizations in the Wisconsin Rapids area. Dan’s impressive work ethic, integrity, and passion for community service make him a true role model in both business and volunteerism. His ability to cultivate strong community relationships and create a culture of support and collaboration is truly inspirational.
 
Member of the Year: Mid-State Technical College
This award is reserved for a business that exemplifies the true spirit of dedication, engagement, and support for the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce. For over a century, Mid-State Technical College has been a driving force in education and workforce advancement, continuously adapting to meet the evolving needs of students, businesses, and the community. Their staff members actively attend, speak at, host events, contribute as sponsors, and hold leadership roles such as serving on our Board of Directors. We are proud to celebrate and honor Mid-State Technical College for its outstanding contributions, leadership, and commitment to education and economic growth.
 
The Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce extends heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and nominees. These remarkable individuals, businesses, and organizations exemplify the spirit of our community; embodying dedication, innovation, and service.
 
We express our deepest gratitude to all Members of the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce for their continued support and participation. Together, we strive to build a vibrant and thriving community.
 
For more information about the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce and its initiatives, please visit www.wisconsinrapidschamber.com.