Nominations for the Cuba Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet close Feb. 28, for the 2025 calendar year and are open to everyone.

Being a member is not required for the nomination process. The form to fill out can be found on their Facebook page.

There are 12 categories this year to honor outstanding members of the community, starting off with the Young Woman of the Year award. To nominate someone in this category, they must be a senior at Cuba High School and demonstrate dedication to the community and her school. The same goes for the Young Man of the Year award.

Those who receive the Entrepreneur Award are chamber members (individual, business or organization) who demonstrate true enterprising spirit in creating and retaining jobs.

For newer businesses that opened in Cuba between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2025, they are eligible for the New Business Award.

Woman of the Year and Man of the Year nominees are presented to a woman and a man who have provided continuous support to the Cuba community. They have demonstrated loyalty and dedication to the community by supporting its growth, development, betterment and pride.

The Beautification Award is given to a chamber member, business or organization, who have made a great effort in making Cuba a beautiful place to live and visit.

Teachers, administrators or school counselors who have dedicated themselves to the youth within the Cuba School District can be nominated for the Educator Award.

The Public Service Award accepts nominations of cities, churches or other organizations for outstanding service to the community.

Awarded to a first responder (police, fire or ambulance) within the Cuba community for their outstanding sacrifice to the people and community.

For nominations of the Lifetime Impact Award, name, phone number and address must be provided. This award is given to a local senior, at least 65 years old, who has devoted exceptional service and leadership to the community within their lifetime.

Any Cuba business that was built on core values and principles that have set the stage for generations of achievement, is eligible for the Business Longevity Award.

Describing why the nominee should be nominated is required; otherwise, they will not be added. Comments, testimonials and supporting information can be included as well.

Cuba Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet doors will open at 6 p.m. on May 1 at Recklein Auditorium. The theme is the Roaring Twenties on Route 66, and a live auction, dessert auction and 50/50 raffle will be included in the festivities.