ROCHELLE — On Thursday, the Rochelle Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Dinner at the the City of Rochelle and Rochelle Municipal Utilities' southside campus. 

The event saw remarks by Chamber Executive Director Tricia Herrera and Rochelle Mayor John Bearrows. 11 awards were presented to local businesses and organizations. 

"I am proud of the community I grew up in and now serve," Herrera said. "Rochelle is an amazing community and the residents are a shining example of hardworking, midwestern values. Cheers to another great year at the Rochelle Chamber."

A surprise award kicked off the night, with Ralfie's BBQ and Catering and The 302 receiving the Community Impact Award. The businesses are owned by Ralf and Tricia Herrera.

"What makes them so special is the many ways they give back," Chamber Board President Kari Andrist said. "They're always willing to step up and support the youth of this community by sponsoring a team, being part of a fundraiser, or donating a dinner before a big game."

The Retailer of the Year Award was presented to Rochelle Ace Hardware.

"They set themselves apart from the big box stores by providing excellent customer service," Chamber Board Vice President Haley Brill said. "You're always welcomed by a friendly smile. They support youth sports in town by carrying a full line of Hubs apparel and participate in Chamber programs."

Chamber Board Member Matt Gerard presented the Family Business of the Year Award to Audyn Boutique, which is located downtown and run by the Hulthen family.

"Their beautiful clothing selection lines the window of their downtown storefront," Gerard said. "They use their beautiful photography and expertise in social media to promote their sophisticated styles. They've made themselves a part of the community, while not being afraid to reach out to other communities to bring shoppers to Rochelle and their storefront."

Chamber Board Member Ben Dougherty presented the Entrepreneur of the Year Award to Erin Bacon of Destiny Studios.

"She uses her creative thinking to uplift others, spark collaboration and create a lasting impact, beyond just the bottom line," Dougherty said. "She's behind the scenes at countless community events donating her time, heart and talents to make them shine."

City Council Member Rosaelia Arteaga presented the Restaurant of the Year Award to Los 3 Molcajetes.

"This family is very giving and humble," Arteaga said. "They're always willing to help with something, even if it's last minute. They always contribute and they're always willing to participate in anything. This is the true meaning of the American dream to come here as a dishwasher and become a restaurant owner.

Chamber Board Member Kris Wexell presented Roiel Scoop Ice Cream with the Small Business of the Year Award.

"They've taken a quaint little downtown space and made it a place for families in our community and visitors," Wexell said. "They support Rochelle Township High School athletic programs and rescue animals where possible and have made themselves a part of our community."

Chamber Board Treasurer Brandon Svela presented the Welcome to Rochelle Award to  Rochelle Book Hub, the city's newest bookstore located inside Cypress House.

"Her love for reading was a catalyst to starting her own business," Svela said. "She has retail sales and has started book clubs, reaching out to those that share her passion for literature. She covers all genres of books and reaches out to the youth of the community to engage with them."

Chamber Board Member Ashley Bick presented the Community Partner of the Year award to the Rochelle Area Community Foundation, which recently marked 20 years and $1.3 million in philanthropic work in the community.

"The community has embraced RACF's philanthropic mission and employers and families make contributions and honor loved ones," Bick said. "They're a group that's fueled by giving back to the local community that results in a wide impact and support staying local."

Andrist presented O'Rorke Construction with the Legacy Award, as its owners recently retired at marked the end of the business's long and storied run in the community.

"We're fortunate to celebrate a business that has maintained a high standing over the years," Andrist said. "What started in 1987 as a family business stayed true to its principles of hard work, dedication, attention to detail, and craftsmanship."

City of Rochelle GIS Coordinator Casey Heuer was presented with the Chamber Delegate of the Year Award by Christa McGrath.

"We like to say that chamber delegates serve as the face of the chamber, but sometimes, we serve as the heart of it too," McGrath said. "Casey is no exception to that. I am continually impressed with her dedication and willingness to always help with whatever is needed."

Herrera presented her Director's Award to the City of Rochelle Street Department. 

"They work tirelessly behind the scenes of our community without proper thanks or praise," Herrera said. "They work in extreme temperatures and are assigned crazy tasks as part of their daily routine. We're proud to recognize them for the work they put in for our residents.”

Bearrows made closing remarks at the end of the event and thanked Rochelle's business community for its work over the past year.

"The Rochelle Chamber of Commerce serves as a cornerstone for local businesses," Bearrows said. "It fosters economic growth and strengthens our community spirit. It has unwavering support for entrepreneurs large and small. When our businesses prosper, the entire community reaps the rewards."