ELLSWORTH – The Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce brought the business community together for an unforgettable evening at its highly anticipated 2025 Annual Awards Banquet, The Chamber Royale. This casino-themed celebration honored the outstanding businesses, organizations, and individuals who make Ellsworth a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

One highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Best of 2025 Awards, recognizing excellence across nine categories, as voted on by the community:

Best New Business: Fiesta Rosita Mexican Restaurant

Best Restaurant, Bar, Tavern: Broz Bar

Best Tourism Destination, Attraction: Ellsworth Creamery

Best Health & Wellness: YB Urban? Aroma Bar

Best Professional Services: WESTconsin Credit Union

Best Professional Home Services: Reuvers’ Nursery

Best Non-Profit, Civic Group, Religious Organization: Ellsworth Public Library

Best Retail Shopping: East End Gifts

Best Customer Service: River Road Coffee

In addition to the Best of Awards, the Small Business, Large Business and Community Leader of the Year Awards were presented:

Small Business of the Year: Broz Bar – Celebrating 20 years in business, Broz Bar has become a staple of Ellsworth’s East End Business District. Owner Jason Marks’ generosity and dedication to the community have made Broz more than just a bar—it’s a gathering place for locals, a supporter of countless fundraisers, and a business that continues to evolve with the needs of its patrons.

Large Business of the Year: Preferred Senior Living – With a steadfast commitment to compassionate care, Preferred Senior Living has provided a welcoming and supportive home for seniors. Their resilience during the pandemic demonstrated their unwavering dedication to safety, dignity, and well-being, making them an invaluable part of the Ellsworth community.

Community Leader of the Year: Donna Constant – Known for her energy, generosity, and ability to bring people together, Constant has spearheaded numerous fundraising efforts, from major ballpark renovations to charitable outreach programs. Her dedication to uplifting those in need makes her a true force for good in the Ellsworth area.

Another special moment of the evening was the recognition of Paul Bauer, the Chamber’s outgoing board president, who has served the Ellsworth Chamber for over a decade. Under Bauer’s leadership, the organization has tackled major economic and business initiatives, including the transformation of the Cheese Curd Festival into a nationally recognized event, fundraising for the new library, efforts to expand broadband access, advocacy for Ellsworth’s public schools, workforce housing and childcare solutions, and more. His legacy of leadership, collaboration, and innovation has left a lasting impact on the business community.

"This event is always a highlight of the year and a celebration of the strength and resilience of Ellsworth’s business community," said Kim Beebe, Executive Director of the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce. "Our award winners represent what makes Ellsworth special, and we are so proud to celebrate their successes and the contributions of all of our members."

For more information about the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce and its initiatives, visit www.ellsworthchamber.com.

Submitted by Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce