SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Springfield celebrated the region’s commitment to ethical business practices on Wednesday, October 29, honoring five organizations at the annual 2025 Torch Awards for Ethics ceremony.
Ozarks First news anchor Bailey Strohl (KOLR 10 and FOX 49) emceed the event, welcoming attendees to a celebration of business integrity and community service.
The annual Torch Awards emphasize the importance of ethical behavior, noting that it “doesn’t just shine. It illuminates,” brightening the region and making it a better place to live, give, and do business.
The Torch Awards recognize businesses and nonprofits that exemplify the values of the BBB: ethical practices, exceptional customer service, and strong support for employees, business partners, and the community.
The 2025 recipients were selected for “lighting the way through exceptional ethics, leadership and service.”
2025 BBB Torch Award Winners
The following winners were honored during the ceremony:
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Advanced Car Care Center (Strafford, Mo.) — Owner Chip Broemmer accepted the award for the full-service facility, which was recognized for its mission to deliver honest, professional care, its investment in employee development, and strong community ties with organizations like Ozarks Technical Community College and the American Red Cross.
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John Marion Custom Homes (Springfield, Mo.) — Project Manager Kyle Hampton accepted the award for the company, which has been building and remodeling homes since 2003. It was recognized for its commitment to integrity, transparency, and craftsmanship, as well as its community support for organizations like Ozarks Food Harvest.
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Lebanon Area Chamber of Commerce (Lebanon, Mo.) — Executive Director Ashley Mahan accepted the award for the nonprofit, which was honored for its dedication to supporting local businesses, fostering economic vitality, and leading with integrity, inclusivity, and service since 1948.
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Patriot Heat & Air (Springfield, Mo.) — Owner Miranda Rought accepted the award for the woman-owned business, which was built on a promise to serve with integrity, compassion, and purpose. It was specifically highlighted for its commitment to giving back, including providing free HVAC systems and repairs to veterans in need.
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Primate Digital Marketing (Springfield, Mo.) — Digital Marketing Director Rafael Vite accepted the award for the full-service agency. The company was recognized for its commitment to ethical leadership and community impact, including providing free or discounted marketing services to local nonprofits such as ALAS and CultureFest.
The annual ceremony aims to highlight organizations whose operations demonstrate that a daily commitment to ethics is the cornerstone of successful business and a stronger community.
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