Submitted by Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce
The Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) announced its 2024 Business Award recipients and board leadership at its Annual Dinner & Scholarship Fundraiser on Thursday, Jan. 25, at Avante Banquets and Conference Center.
The evening was a celebration of chamber accomplishments and people. It attracted over 150 local business, community, and governmental leaders. The event also raised funds for the BACC High School Scholarship Fund and Small Business Programming.
“Our Chamber Business Award recipients are individuals who passionately pursue their dreams, setting the bar high for excellence and service,” said new 2024 BACC chairman of the board, Ellaine Sambo-Reyther of BMO Wealth Management. She then announced the following awards:
Community Impact Award recipient: The Arboretum of South Barrington
“This award recognizes a business or entity that is improving the quality of life in the Barrington Area. As a focal point in the South Barrington community, The Arboretum of South Barrington offers consistent programming that brings local families and business together, operating as the town center for neighbors, friends, and surrounding residents. From spectacular holiday events to summer concerts and special happenings, the Arboretum is a unique gathering space that families enjoy,” said Sambo-Reyther as she presented the award to Rick Heidner.
New Business of the Year Award recipient: KRH Restaurant & Garden
“This award spotlights a business that has come onto the local scene with a positive energy the spreads community spirit. New KRH owners Paul and Karolina Maloney have made updates to the historic Kelsey Road House to create family, kid and pet-friendly gathering spaces, bringing in a new generation of loyal fans. From summer music, kid- and pup-friendly events, to their over-the-top holiday decorated basement, the Maloney’s are securing their place in history,” said Sambo-Reyther as she presented the award.
Innovator of the Year Award recipient: Barrington’s White House
“This award singles out a local entity that contributes programming or services that challenge, enhance, and change our communities for the better. The dynamic and vast programming throughout the year at Barrington’s White House gathers residents from near and far – often touching on pressing topics, health, and wellness, in addition to the arts, medicine, socially important topics and courageous conversations,” said Sambo-Reyther.
“Char Neault Networker of the Year” Award recipient: Bill Collingbourne of Edward Jones
“Our Char Neault Networker of the Year Award is named after one of our most fervent and dedicated networkers from Barrington Bank & Trust Company. Char networked through the chamber for 25 years, served as a diplomat, on the board, as chair, and in general as a leading advocate for BACC. This year’s recipient, Bill Collingbourne, is a constant advocate for BACC and a major connector at many events throughout the year,” said Sambo-Reyther as she presented the award to Collingbourne.
Young Entrepreneurs of the Year Award recipients: The Doteki Brush team
“We are delighted to recognize the team of Barrington High School students that developed Doteki Brush, a premium durable grill brush with four interchangeable heads. These aspiring young entrepreneurs received a $15,000 investment during pitch night and were nominated by BHS to represent the school in the Incubator National Pitch Competition. Congratulations to Aidan Marchese, Madeleine Yoon, Nishka Kolhe and Grahme Valskis,” said Sambo-Reyther as she presented the award.
The 2024 chamber’s board of directors was also recognized at the event, including the BACC Executive Committee: Ellaine Sambo-Reyther, BMO Wealth Management, chairman; Dr. Reinhold Llerena, Ascension, first vice chair; Robert Finley, Virtue Asset Management, second vice chair; Jon Stickney, Barrington Bank & Trust Co., N.A., treasurer; and Jen Frey, Jen Frey Coaching, past chairman.
Board of directors: Zach Witt, Ilumen Solar; Linda Fine, Buckley Fine Law; Jennifer Hissa, Greater Chicago Kitchen & Bath; Linda Gump, Jovie Nannies and Sitters & College Tutors; Armen Kholamian, Junk King Barrington; Brett Koenig, Crissie Insurance Group; Kyle Kick, BStrong Together; and Julie Mayer, Advocate Aurora Health.
Advisory board members: Scott Anderson, village of Barrington; Dr. Craig Winkelman, Barrington School District 220; Robert Palmer, village of South Barrington; and Michele’ Smith, Harper College.
