Staff report

The Youngstown / Warren Regional Chamber will honor five individuals and organizations whose innovation, advocacy and impact are shaping the Valley’s business community.

The award presentations will take place at the Chamber’s annual Salute to Business event 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Aug. 28 at the Eastwood Event Centre, 5555 Youngstown Warren Road, Niles.

Michele Harradence of Enbridge will provide the keynote address. Kip Botirius, executive vice president of Mod Op, will receive the Valley Champion Award.

Also being honored are:

• Business Professional of the Year — John Miles, president and CEO of Steelite International. This award is presented in recognition of a Mahoning Valley business owner’s professional leadership in the overall success, continued growth and development, longevity and community presence of his or her company.

• Business Advocate of the Year — Tim Petrey, CEO, HD Growth Partners. This award is given to an individual or organization that has had a positive and significant impact on the development or advancement of a business in the Valley.

• Nonprofit Professional of the Year — Andrea Mahone Blackmon, CEO, Andrea Mahone Foundation. This honor recognizes nonprofit leaders for organizational innovation, strategic leadership and collaborative efforts that enhance the quality of life in the community.

• Entrepreneur of the Year — Justin White, co-owner and CEO, Advanced Technology Partners. This award celebrates a business owner for their spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation, as well as for business growth in the Valley.

• Small Business Professional of the Year — Leigh Jaffer, multiunit owner / operator, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream. This award honors an individual who displays exemplary leadership in their business and a deep commitment to customers and community alike.

• Salute to Labor Achievement Award, presented by Western Reserve Building Trades, will be announced at a later date.

Also on the agenda is Youngstown State University Head Football Coach Doug Phillips, who will give his annual preview of the Penguins upcoming season.

A Canfield Fair representative will provide an update on the annual agricultural exposition.

Harradence is an executive vice president at Enbridge Inc. and president of Enbridge Gas, North America’s largest natural gas utility.

Botirius is a New Middletown native now living in Solon.

After the tragic loss of his 4-year-old son Sebastian to a rare genetic disorder that affects the immune system, Botirius and his wife, Kelly Baylog, created Sebastian’s Playground — a play space in Solon Community Park that raised more than $125,000 and serves children of all abilities.

The cost to attend is $50 per person. Registration by Aug. 21 is requested. For more information, phone 330-744-2131 or email chuck@regionalchamber.com.