Mike Wolanin | The Republic Local philanthropist and business owner Tony Moravec talks with member of his family during the ribbon cutting ceremony for Ivy Tech Columbus’ new campus building in Columbus, Ind., Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022. The building is named after Moravec.
An influential businessman and philanthropist who championed Columbus until his death last year was posthumously awarded the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce’s Community Service Award for 2023.
Tony Moravec, whose enterprises ranged from founding Blairex Laboratories Inc. to restoring Zaharako’s ice cream parlor, was remembered Thursday by Blairex President Jeff Logston, who accepted the award at the Chamber’s annual meeting at the request of Moravec’s family.
“He was in Columbus by choice, not by chance,” Logston said, repeating a phrase Moravec often used to describe his passion for the community, “and his actions reflected such. … Tony was always about family, being bold and doing it right.”
Moravec also valued education, donating significantly to the new Moravec Hall, the main building at Ivy Tech’s Columbus campus, which was dedicated in October. Moravec died Nov. 8.
Logston shared several of Moravec’s favorite sayings, several of which came from parents and grandparents. “Grandpa used to say do your job like you own the business, because maybe someday you will,” Logston said, before sharing one of Moravec’s personal favorites: “Bite off more than you can chew, then chew like hell.”
The chamber also presented these awards Thursday:
— Excellence in Business Award: George Utz Inc., Edinburgh.
Michael Chiado, presdient for the Americas for the Switzerland-based maker of plastics and container solutions for the logistics industry, accepted the award the Edinburgh facility that has grown through multiple expansions from an original five employees to its current workforce of more than 180, with plans to hire dozens more.
“I came to the Columbus community 14 years ago and was surprised by the support from the local community, local government, county, and quite frankly, I continue to be surprised,” Chiado said. “It’s a great place to do business and I very much appreciate everyone who has helped us.” He saluted Utz employees at the event who he said were the key players in the company’s local success.
— Small Business of the Year Award: Service My Restaurants
A few years back, local franchise restaurateurs Estep & Co. launched a sideline providing foodservice equipment service to other restaurants. As the sideline grew from two trucks, Service My Restaurants was born and has grown to a fleet of 23 serving restaurants around Indiana and in the Louisville metro area.
“We are so grateful to be a part of this community and know everyone, and we’re so thankful for what you’ve done to help us grow our business,” said George Estep, president and CEO of Estep & Co, Inc., and owner and operator of Service My Restaurants.
— Edna Folger Award: Angela Ginder
Previously announced, the Chamber formally presented Rockcreek Elementary School sixth-grade teacher Angela Ginder with the Edna V. Folger Outstanding Teacher Award.
“Angie meets every student where they are and embarks on an academic journey unique to each student,” Chamber 2023 board chair John Sadtler said in presenting the award. “Her students feel safe, happy and appreciated as she creates a positive classroom environment.”
