On Tuesday, March 25th, the Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce member network gathered at MVECA for the 2025 Annual Awards Meeting—an evening filled with reflection, celebration, and a renewed commitment to progress. While enjoying a delicious meal catered by Yellow Springs Smokehouse, business leaders connected, exchanged ideas, and explored the exciting opportunities ahead.

The evening highlighted the strength of working together as a unified business community. Conversations focused on the local economy and how the YS Chamber can continue to expand its reach, foster partnerships, and create lasting impact.

A highlight of the evening was the opportunity for business representatives to share exciting updates with the Chamber network, reinforcing the spirit of innovation. Announcements from Honeycomb Digital, MVECA, the BIPOC Food & Farming Network, and Truitt Fitness (just to name a few) showcased the diverse ways local businesses are growing and making an impact. The event also featured the reveal of this year’s Stars of the Springs award recipients, recognizing excellence and dedication within the business community:

• Business Community Impact Award – Village Solar, Co.
• Startup of the Year Award – Nook Overland
• Volunteer of the Year Award – Pam Geisel, Village Artisans
• Employee of the Year Award – Ben Holeman, The Springs Motel

Board Chair Alex Price provided a financial overview, highlighting the Chamber’s strong fiscal position and significant financial growth in 2024. He emphasized how this stability enhances the Chamber’s ability to support its members and drive economic initiatives. Along with seasonal favorites like Holiday in the Springs, Executive Director Phillip O’Rourke continued recapping 2024, showcasing membership growth and key achievements, including the successful launch of Cider Days and the Shop Local Tote Bag—initiatives that drove economic activity and deepened community engagement.

As the evening concluded, the state of the economy was framed as a call to action, emphasizing the need for intentional collaboration to build a successful 2025. “When we come together, we achieve what would be impossible alone,” said O’Rourke. “Connection and collaboration are the foundation of a thriving business community. By collaborating, we create opportunities, inspire innovation, and build a stronger, more resilient Yellow Springs."

Attendees were encouraged to take an active role in shaping the Chamber’s future by joining committees such as Events, Marketing, Membership, Finance, and Street Fair. By uniting in these efforts, members can help guide the Chamber’s initiatives and drive meaningful change.

The evening closed on an inspiring note, with a shared commitment to moving forward—together. Through strong partnerships and fresh ideas, the Chamber remains a catalyst for progress, dedicated to making Yellow Springs a vibrant and thriving place to live, work, and prosper.

Special thanks to the event host, MVECA, and the event sponsor, Laura A. Curliss Co., LPA.