Awards Pro to Be Named Business Person of the Year

Awards of Elegance owner Tom Bentz will be taking home his own award this month - and it won't be one he's made.

Named Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year, Tom Bentz's business seems to defy all economic gloom. Profits have been up each of the 21 years he's been open, and it doesn't seem to be slowing.

"Every year we've been in business we've grown, it's been great," Bentz said. "I really think it's the service we provide, we have been price competitive and we also do the jobs on time."

Bentz, his wife Tracey and a small staff make a variety of custom awards from scratch at their 410 Main St. shop. Awards, trophies, a full line of apparel with silk screening and embroidery services and advertising specialities are just a few of the kinds of products offered.

The bread and butter of the business is primarily school and sports trophies and awards, said Bentz, who said he's thankful for consistent clients like three town little leagues, two midget football leagues, youth basketball and many more.

Bentzs' introduction into the world of awards came when he was hired at Barker Specialty Company in Cheshire as a warehouse manager when he was 21 years old.

"I went to pick up some softball uniforms from them and they asked if anyone was interested in that line of work," Bentz said. "I was hired on the spot, and I  learned a lot when I was there."

Gaining experience in shipping and receiving and creating awards, Bentz left Barker after a year and half to start his own business. He then increased his space from 600 square feet to 900 and then eventually inhabited most of the building between his showroom and work space.

Through the year's he's picked up clients from around the state, most recently doing work for last year's senate candidate Linda McMahon, while supporting local causes like Relay for Life and groups like the YMCA.

"For the Y, Tom has been very supportive of our Forever and Blue Jeans events and the Apple Harvest Festival Road Races. His generous support means we are able to serve more in the community," Southington YMCA Executive Director John Myers said. "He's always a phone call a way and always willing to support our cause."

"Tom Bentz has demonstrated that's he's more than just a business owner," Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce President Arthur Secondo said. "Tom has involved himself in the community and is a true representative of what business owners can do for their town."

The Southington native said he's been lucky to work in an industry providing products for positive events in people's lives.

"It's satisfying work, and it's different every single time you make an award," Bentz said. "I'm looking to continually serve the community and expand into new markets, and I'm hoping to be here another 20 years."

Bentz will accept his award during the Southington Chamber of Commerce annual dinner at the Aqua Turf Club on April 16.