Heart of Wisconsin 77th Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet

Wisconsin Rapids, Wis. (WFHR, WIRI) – Members and guests gathered last Thursday for the 77th Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet for the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce. More than 240 leaders from the community celebrated the business community’s success over the past year.

The evening kicked off with a welcome from Van Patrick Gotz. Attendees enjoyed a delicious dinner followed by introduction and Heart of Wisconsin Chamber Board recognition. Chamber President and CEO, Staci Kivi gave an overview of work done in 2025 and discussed their objectives for 2025. The Mission Moment Speaker was Navy Veteran and business owner Janelle Hafermann. She spoke about the growth of her business, Hafermann Counseling Collaborative and successes in the community.

Award Presentation

Awards were sponsored by area businesses. The Entrepreneur/Small Business of the Year Award sponsored by Paper City Savings Bank. Large Business of the Year Award sponsored by Domtar Industries. Innovative Business of the Year Award sponsored by Mid-State Technical College. Community Impact of the Year Award sponsored by Incourage Community Foundation. Ambassador of the Year Award sponsored by Domtar Industries. Business Professional of the Year Award sponsored by Enbridge Energy Company. Member of the Year Award sponsored by Quality Plus Printing.

Winners

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.” (Chamber Press Release)

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.” (Chamber Press Release)

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.” (Chamber Press Release)

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.” (Chamber Press Release)

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.” (Chamber Press Release)

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.” (Chamber Press Release)

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.” (Chamber Press Release)

Links

If you would like to find out more about the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce, click here. You can email President/CEO Staci Kivi at president@wisconsinrapidschamber.com. Heart of Wisconsin is a regular guest on Mid-Day Magazine on WFHR. You can listen to their latest episode here.