Troy Chamber Celebrates 87th Annual Dinner, Honors Local Businesses

The Troy Area Chamber of Commerce recognized community leaders, new members, and award winners at its annual event.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Troy Area Chamber of Commerce held its 87th Annual Dinner at the Arbogast Performing Arts Center (APAC) on Thursday, February 5th. The event featured networking, a catered dinner, and the presentation of several awards honoring local businesses and community leaders. Highlights included recognizing the Chamber's new members, Ambassador of the Year, outgoing Board Chair, and Small, Medium, and Large Business of the Year award winners.

Why it matters

The Troy Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner is a longstanding tradition that celebrates the local business community and recognizes the organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to the Troy area. The event highlights the Chamber's role in supporting economic development, community engagement, and civic pride in the region.

The details

The evening began with cocktails and networking, followed by a dinner catered by Mrs. B's. Chamber Executive Director Kathi Roetter then led the awards portion of the program, which included recognizing new Chamber members, the Ambassador of the Year (Lori Gross), the outgoing Board Chair (Bonnie Harris-Frey), and the Small Business of the Year (Samozrejme), Medium Business of the Year (Viva La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant), and Large Business of the Year (Upper Valley Medical Center).

  • The 87th Troy Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner was held on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
  • The Strawberry Festival, which the Chamber helps organize, will celebrate its 50th year in 2026.

The players

Kathi Roetter

Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Troy Area Chamber of Commerce.

Bonnie Harris-Frey

Outgoing Chairwoman of the Troy Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Allison Fullenkamp

Owner of Samozrejme, the Small Business of the Year award winner.

Johnny Fuentes

Owner of Viva La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant, the Medium Business of the Year award winner.

Kevin Harlan

President of Upper Valley Medical Center, the Large Business of the Year award winner.

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What they’re saying

“Tonight is more than just an anniversary. It's about recognizing the people, the businesses, and the spirit that make this community such an exceptional place to live, work and grow. The Chamber has always been built on connection, collaboration, and a shared belief in the power of excellence – and that is exactly what we celebrate this evening.”

— Kathi Roetter, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Troy Area Chamber of Commerce (miamivalleytoday.com)

“(I) wouldn't change it for the world.”

— Lori Gross, Ambassador of the Year (miamivalleytoday.com)

“It is my honor to give back to the community...I am so humbled by this and so thankful.”

— Allison Fullenkamp, Owner, Samozrejme (miamivalleytoday.com)

“This means more to us, more than you know. We will try to give more and more.”

— Johnny Fuentes, Owner, Viva La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant (miamivalleytoday.com)

“Thank you for this.”

— Kevin Harlan, President, Upper Valley Medical Center (miamivalleytoday.com)

What’s next

The Troy Area Chamber of Commerce will continue to support local businesses and community initiatives throughout the year, leading up to the 50th anniversary of the Strawberry Festival in 2026.

The takeaway

The Troy Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner showcases the vibrant local business community and the Chamber's role in fostering economic development, civic engagement, and a shared sense of pride in the Troy area. The event honors the businesses, leaders, and volunteers who contribute to making Troy a thriving and welcoming place to live, work, and grow.