And the leadership winner is…

Chad Kulas

On Feb. 5, 2026, the Midway Chamber held its Annual Celebration. Our biggest event of the year, we hosted 250 people for a night of fun and recognition. One of the highlights of the night every year is honoring five members with Leadership Awards, as well as 10 other finalists. Here’s who took home this year’s awards…

Small Business of the Year: TMC Publications
The publisher of the Monitor, TMC Publications CO was recognized as a true service to the community as it keeps neighbors informed of what’s happening in the Midway. Many stories include Midway Chamber events, or highlight our members. Other finalists: Bob’s IT Consulting, TST Creative Catering.

Large Business of the Year: Dual Citizen Brewing
Dual Citizen truly lives up to its name, hosting many fundraisers for nonprofits and giving to different charities each month. While many businesses closed for “ICE Out” on Jan. 23, Dual Citizen remained open and donated 100% of their proceeds to Every Meal, a Minnesota-based nonprofit working to ensure children have access to good food. Other finalists: Minnesota United FC, Suntide Commercial Realty.

Rookie of the Year: Jersey Mike’s
This award goes to a newer Midway Chamber member, in their first two years. Located near the University and Hamline intersection, Jersey Mike’s has catered many chamber events and supported various local nonprofits. The franchisee, Brian Smith, is a Midway resident and making a difference in our community. Other finalists: Life Juices, WareSpace.

Nonprofit of the Year: International
Institute of Minnesota
The work being done by International Institute of Minnesota is always important, but especially so while Operation Metro Surge is taking place. They have helped new Americans learn English, take classes and become citizens since 1919 (the same year the Midway Chamber was founded). Other finalists: Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & Washington Counties, Junior Achievement North.

Volunteer of the Year: Brian Thomas May, Blaze Credit Union
Like many nonprofits, the Midway Chamber couldn’t succeed without the dedication of volunteers. Brian Thomas May has stepped up in a big way as he chairs our communications committee and helps execute our communications plan. He is also instrumental in our Nonprofit of the Month award, which is sponsored by Blaze Credit Union. Other finalists: Jenny Rivera, Sunrise Banks, Mitchell Lallier, S&L Team Cleaning.

The Midway Chamber has presented awards for years, but this was the first year our member Bywater Business Solutions was able to create them in-house. The awards had a fun look with the outline of the state of Minnesota, and a gopher to show the night was held at the University of Minnesota McNamara Center. The Midway Chamber thanks all of our members who are showing their support to us and the Midway community!