2025 Community Improvement Awards

Hagerstown, Ind. — The Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce proudly honored local businesses and organizations at the 2025 Community Improvement Awards, recognizing the incredible investments being made to improve the appearance, functionality, and spirit of Wayne County.

This year’s ceremony celebrated not just construction and renovation, but also vision, community pride, and transformational impact. Awards were presented in three key categories, alongside recognition of several standout nominees.

Exemplary Award – Downtown Deli and Catering Company
Presented annually to a nominee who goes above and beyond in completing a beautification project, this year’s Exemplary Award was awarded to Downtown Deli and Catering Company. With $167,000 invested in improvements across two historic downtown buildings, the team restored the original charm of the structures through tuck pointing, new windows, fresh paint, and modern signage. Their dedication to both preservation and revitalization serves as a shining example of what it means to invest in the heart of the community.

Community Impact Award – Uranus Fudge Factory
Given to a nominee whose presence has a profound impact on the local community, the Community Impact Award went to Uranus Fudge Factory. With an estimated $1.25 million invested, this playful and highly visible project turned a once-overlooked structure into a must-see roadside destination. From the giant dinosaur to the bold barn-style design and future plans for attractions, the project brings jobs, tourism, and a unique personality to Richmond.

Community Spirit Award – Richmond Urban Enterprise Association (RUEA)
The Spirit Award recognizes projects that spark transformational change and uplift the spirit of Wayne County. This year, the award was presented to the Richmond Urban Enterprise Association for their ongoing work in building community, creating opportunities, and driving revitalization in underutilized urban spaces. Their commitment to equity, access, and local pride has made a lasting mark on the community and continues to shape a stronger, more connected Richmond.
Additional 2025 Nominees
The Chamber also recognized the outstanding efforts of additional nominees whose projects made a significant difference in Wayne County:
• Anchor Transload
• Blue Buffalo – Project Alma & Site Rebranding
• Burger King – Eastside & Westside Renovations
• Eight To The Bar • Root 13 Beauty Suites
• 3Rivers Federal Credit Union

“Being nominated for the Community Improvement Awards was incredibly timely. Anyone who has undertaken a project with significant changes knows the sleepless nights, selfdoubt, and concerns about making the right decisions,” said Root 13 Owner, Debbie Dalbey. “Knowing that others recognize the value in our efforts at our new location means the world to me. Thank you so much for acknowledging not just our hard work but all the others who are nominated.”

​From large-scale industrial investments to historic restorations and creative renovations, each nominee played a role in moving Wayne County forward building a stronger, more beautiful, and more vibrant place to live, work, and grow