Chamber Members Sweep First Ever "Swagger" Awards

We are very proud to reflect on the results of the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance's first ever Swagger Awards. The Swagger Awards honored the 38 companies that expanded in 2009, and six companies were singled out as winners for their achievements:

• Rothberg, Logan & Warsco for the Downtown Development Award
• BAE Systems for the Sustainer Award
• Group Delphi for the New Business Award
• Swiss Re for the Redevelopment Award
• JH Specialty for the Small Business Award
• Brotherhood Mutual for the Business Expansion Award

Each of these companies, we are proud to say, are Chamber members! Thanks to each of them for their commitment to business in Northeast Indiana, and congratulations for the recognition they have garnered for their hard work! Thanks and congratulations also go out to each of the numerous companies that were honored today for their development efforts in Fort Wayne and Allen County.

Over 220 guests attended the Swagger Awards, including Mayor Henry and County Commissioner Nelson Peters. Another Special award was given - the Community Spirit Award was given to Mac Parker of Baker & Daniels for his commitment and contribution to economic development in Fort Wayne and Allen County. Mac serves as President of the Chamber Foundation. He has been a major proponent of economic development within the community and often speaks of Fort Wayne's need to reclaim its "swagger" of earlier days. The award has now been officially dubbed the "Maclyn Parker Swagger Award for Community Spirit," after its initial recipient. Mac is pictured here receiving the award from Andi Udris, Alliance President, Commissioner Nelson Peters, and Melissa Long of Indiana's News Center.

"The Swagger Awards have been a tremendous success because we accomplished what we set out to do, which was to pay tribute to companies that are working hard and continuing to grow during a time of economic uncertainty," says Udris. "Many people were brought together for this event because they recognized the importance of honoring the companies that are creating jobs and opportunity for our community."