There are moments when you truly feel the pulse of a community, and the recent 24th Annual Perry County Chamber of Commerce Business Awards was undoubtedly one of them. Held on Thursday, May 1st, at the Schergens Center, the evening was a brilliant showcase of the drive, dedication, and collaborative spirit that defines Perry County. The atmosphere was charged with pride, reflecting a business community built on a rich history of resilience and innovation – from the early days of river trade and the meticulous craftsmanship of Swiss-German settlers who founded Tell City, to the enduring manufacturing legacy and the dynamic growth of diverse local enterprises we see today.
The 24th Annual Perry County Chamber of Commerce (PCCOC) Business Awards didn’t just happen; they were the result of tremendous dedication and planning. For the second consecutive year, the Perry County Chamber of Commerce, led by Executive Director Sara Zuelly, expertly presented this high-caliber event celebrating our local businesses. The awards ceremony itself was a true celebration of local success. A moving part of the evening that shared the heart of our nominees was the video reel, filmed, produced and edited by Shiraz Mukarram of the Perry County Development Corporation (PCDC). We’re incredibly grateful to all the nominees who generously shared their time and stories to make that video possible. The nominee showcase reel wasn’t just a list of names; it was a window into the soul of our local enterprise. The video opened with breathtaking views of Perry County – the majestic Ohio River, a historic artery of commerce and life, and the charming streets of Tell City – painting a vivid backdrop for the stars of the show: the nominees themselves.
Each person featured shared their story, their connection to Perry County, and their passion for what they do. It was impossible not to be moved by their sincerity and the clear pride they take in serving this community. The film offered a compelling glimpse into the dedication that fuels our local economy, showcasing that our businesses are more than just storefronts; they are the dreams, the hard work, and the heart of our neighbors.
Perry County’s journey, from its early reliance on natural resources and agriculture to becoming a hub for manufacturing and embracing technology and tourism, is a testament to its adaptive spirit. This progress reflects a long-standing community-wide commitment to fostering growth, championing both established institutions and innovative new ventures. This awards night stood as a milestone in that ongoing story of progress and community.
The awards celebrated a wide spectrum of talent and contribution across our county. Every nominee, every story, is a vital thread in what makes Perry County thrive. We applaud each and every one of them for their commitment:
1 – Outstanding Citizenship Award Nominees: Zac Hartz (Logos – Shirts, Signs & Designs), Lacy Jones (United Way of Perry County), Sister Shellie (Catholic Charities Tell City).
2 – Entrepreneur of the Year Nominees: Dr. Klyne Waninger (Clarity Audiology), Dana Franzman (Parlor Nail Spa), Blaine Ubelhor (Marcy’s Restaurant), Kim LaGrange (Serenity Studios), Eric Martin (The Salt Room).
3 – The Applause Award Nominees: Perry County Public Library, Habitat for Humanity Perry County IN, United Way of Perry County.
4 – People’s Choice Award Nominees: The Salt Room, Perry County Council On Aging, Perry Central Community School Corp., Noble’s IGA Foodliner, Julie’s Tell Street Cafe.
5 – Restaurant of the Year Nominees: Julie’s Tell Street Cafe, The Patio Steakhouse, The Pour Haus.
6 – Small Business of the Year Nominees: Indiana Realty Group, The Salt Room, Turn Key Realty & Property Management, Gladish Chiropractic & Acupuncture, LLC, Hauenstein’s, Tell City Leatherworks.
7 – Large Business of the Year Nominees: Waupaca Foundry, PSC Fiber, Lutgring Bros. Inc., Southern Indiana Power, Perry County Memorial Hospital (PCMH).
A heartfelt congratulations to this year’s distinguished award recipients, who truly embody excellence:
* 🏆 Outstanding Citizenship Award: Zac Hartz Logos – Shirts, Signs & Designs
* 🏆 Entrepreneur of the Year: Blaine Ubelhor – Marcy’s Restaurant
* 🏆 The Applause Award: Perry County Public Library – Indiana
* 🏆 Restaurant of the Year: Patio Steakhouse
* 🏆 Small Business of the Year: Gladish Chiropractic & Acupuncture, LLC
* 🏆 Large Business of the Year: Perry County Memorial Hospital
These winners are shining examples, but the true victory of the evening was the collective spirit of enterprise, dedication, and community that every nominee represents. It’s this spirit, so powerfully presented in the nomination reel, that forms the true heartbeat of Perry County.
Let’s continue to champion these incredible local businesses and organizations. Their passion builds our community, their service enriches our lives, and their success is Perry County’s success – a tradition of progress that has defined our region for generations and continues to light the way forward.
Want to see more stories from the heart of our home? Consider subscribing to the Pick Perry YouTube channel and witness the ongoing narrative of our remarkable local enterprise!
