The Greater Portage Chamber of Commerce gathered with business leaders, community partners, and local officials on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Woodland Park for its annual Awards Celebration—an evening dedicated to honoring the people, organizations, and projects making an impact throughout Portage.
The event, supported by generous sponsors Centier Bank, Comcast NBCUniversal, NIPSCO, U.S. Federal #1364
The Chamber proudly presented awards across multiple categories:
New Construction Award Winners
- Tsunami Express Car Wash
- Culver’s – Ameriplex
- Holladay Properties – Kedzie Building
- CoAction – Prominence Commons II
Community Improvement Award Winners
- Meraki Greek Street Food
- BAM Pizza and Super Scoops
- Moods Bar
- Pop’s Italian Beef & Sausage
- bNutty – The Doghouse
Business Service Award
- Biggby Coffee
Volunteer of the Year
- Mary Harkins, Fronius USA, LLC
Outstanding Public Servant Award
- Andy Maletta, Executive Director, Portage Economic Development Corporation
Humanitarian of the Year Award
- Amanda McKenzie, Big Dogs Don’t Cry
Putting Portage on the Map Award & Special Event Award
- On the Roxx & Decibels for Roxx Fest 2025
Outstanding Educator Award
- Lauren Nelson, Portage High School Counselor
Quality of Life Award
- Porter County Aging & Community Services
Outstanding Public Citizen Award
- Rita Bacevich, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Northwest Indiana Volunteer
The Chamber extended heartfelt thanks to outgoing board members John Peterson (Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home) and John Wirth (Portage Recovery Association) for their years of dedicated service.
The Chamber also welcomed its incoming board members:
Mary Harkins (Fronius USA, LLC), Kristin Marlow (Habitat for Humanity Porter County), Brandon Johnson (Renexec), Jeff Srncik (Kirby Risk), and Amanda McKenzie (First Community Mortgage / Big Dogs Don’t Cry).
In his keynote address, Alan Whipps, Business Banker at 1st Source Bank and the Chamber’s 2026 Board President-Elect, shared an optimistic vision for the year ahead.
“Portage is a city on the move. Our businesses are thriving, our schools are shaping the next generation, and our community is growing stronger every day,” Whipps said. “The Chamber is here to keep that momentum going.”
He praised Chamber staff and volunteers while announcing two major initiatives for 2026: the creation of a Chamber Foundation and the launch of new signature events, including a Business & Educator Mixer and an Economic Opportunity Forum.
“These priorities reflect our commitment to growth, collaboration, and innovation,” Whipps added. “Together, we can make 2026 a year of progress for the Chamber and for Portage.”
Executive Director Jerry Czarnecki reflected on a successful year that brought 74 new members and renewed community involvement.
“This has been an amazing first year as Executive Director,” he said. “Our membership is growing, our events are thriving, and the Chamber’s connection to the community and schools continues to strengthen. None of this would have been possible without our incredible staff. Thank you, Erin and Nancy, for everything you have done and continue to do.”
Looking ahead, Czarnecki encouraged members to stay engaged.
“We are poised to continue to grow and add new initiatives in 2026. Thank you for your support, your membership, and your participation.”
The 2025 Awards Celebration captured the spirit of Portage—its momentum, resilience, and commitment to collaboration. With new leadership, ambitious plans for 2026, and a strong network of business and community partners, the Greater Portage Chamber of Commerce looks forward to another year of progress.
For more information about Chamber programs, events, or membership, contact the Greater Portage Chamber of Commerce at (219) 762-3300 or visit its website at www.portageinchamber.com
