By Heather Lusk
The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce annual awards banquet on Jan. 22 recognized 10 individuals and businesses who have made a difference in the community.
The big winner of the evening was Dan Moyers and zWORKS, with Moyers accepting the Business Professional of the Year award and the business he co-founded, zWORKS, receiving the Community Service Award, which recognizes the efforts of institutions toward the betterment and growth of the community.
Moyers then had the chance to present the first ever zWORKS Startup of the Year to Clear Software owner Jon Gilman whose business “has tangibly benefited from zWORKS” according to Moyers.
“(It’s) an ideal example of the zWORKS model at work,” he said. “zWORKS is helping Jon accelerate his startup, and over time Clear will hopefully grow up and out of zWORKS and then stay local in Zionsville.”
A year ago zWORKS founders were searching for a location for the co-working space until the building at 85 E. Cedar Street became reality in April.
“A lot has come together nicely in this first year, and yes, I do think the pace of impact has been a bit quicker than our co-founders and board anticipated,” Moyers said.
Fox 59 reporter Sherman Burdette served as emcee and joked about the popularity of the Town Crier award.
“Why does everybody get so excited about it?” he asked. “I know why, it goes to the person who made outstanding contributions to the town of Zionsville.”
Jeff Papa received the award, being recognized for his involvement with the creation of Creekside Corporate Park and bringing LIDS to Zionsville.
The Winners
Business Professional of the Year: Dan Moyers, zWORKS
Volunteer of the Year Award: Kathy Scales-Brown
Dahlia Excellence in Service Award: Lesley Hunt
Outstanding Public Official Award: Lawson Clark and John Yeo
Emerging Professional of the Year: Victor and Mica Gosnell, owners of Confectioneiress Cupcakes & Sweets
Business of the Year Award: Mobi Wireless Management
Community Service Award: zWORKS
zWORKS Startup of the Year: Clear Software
Town Crier: Jeff Papa
