On Saturday, the Portage Chamber of Commerce held its annual Community Awards Banquet to recognize its outstanding members and others helping to further the city of Portage.
The theme of this year’s awards was to distinguish the Chamber’s many members and others that make up Portage’s founding families. These founding families are made up of businesses and individuals that make a positive impact on the Portage Community.
The Banquet was held in the community center at Woodland Park which featured an open bar with catered food and desserts for its many attendees.
“The award recipients tonight are outstanding in what they do, believe wholeheartedly in what they do and are absolutely dedicated to what they do when it comes to helping Portage,” said Nancy Simpson, Executive Director of the Portage Chamber of Commerce.
“We hold this ceremony to recognize the businesses that have contributed to the enhancement of the portage community and the citizens that have given themselves to the community,” she continued. “There are awards for outstanding educator, humanitarian services, and also in new construction for city building like the new fire and police department buildings.”
“It’s always exciting for the chamber to hold this event. The Chamber wants to let our members and community know that we appreciate all they do for each other and for Portage”.
The banquet crowd was entertained halfway through by a game of “Heads or Tails” for Bulls tickets, but those who didn’t win could also take something home by bidding in the Chamber’s silent auction.
Antonio Gutierrez, the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network Accolade for Congressional District 1 in Northwest Indiana, took home the humanitarian services award for his involvement in the fight against cancer.
“I’ve decided to use my time on Earth to press legislature that will make cancer treatment a priority in all levels of Government,” he said. “Receiving this award is a huge honor to me because there are so many people that also deserve this award in Portage’s community. I’m flattered that I've been chosen, and it’s just a great feeling to know that others think what you’re doing is an amazing service for the community.”
Other award winners were Sandy Steele for Volunteer of the year, Gore Realty Co. for business Service, and the South Haven Boys and Girls Club staff and members for the quality of life award.
Joseph Kasper has been a volunteer in Portage for nearly 20 years, but is currently the Portage Township Food Pantry President of the Board and also the recipient of the Outstanding Public Citizen award.
“I feel that volunteering for the Portage community is such an important thing because it keeps the mind on what’s truly important, helping others, he said. Portage is blessed with a community that cares for everyone by consistently giving their time to aid those less fortunate.”
Kasper continued, “I believe everyone at this banquet deserves this award because we’re all part of the same team, but it is a rewarding feeling to see the people you respect and revere give you your time in the spotlight.”