Ben Daughters Named 2026 Chilli-Ross Chamber Entrepreneur of the Year
Article presented by Herlihy Moving & Storage and Ross Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau …
CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — May 14, 2026 — The Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce presented its 2026 Annual Awards on Tuesday, May 12, at Bell Manor in Chillicothe. The evening, themed 250 Years of Adventure in recognition of the America250 national bicentennial celebration, brought together members of the local business community to honor five individuals and organizations whose contributions have made a lasting impact on Ross County.
Daughters during an appearance on #LitterMediaLIVE
Ben Daughters, owner of Dairy Queen of Chillicothe and founder of The Pour House at Machinery Hall, was named the 2026 Entrepreneur of the Year. A U.S. Army veteran and Bronze Star recipient, Ben returned home to Chillicothe in 2012 and has since built businesses that employ 120 people, generate more than $2.1 million in wages annually, and welcome over 115,000 guests per year — all while contributing significantly to downtown revitalization and community leadership.
“Tonight was a testament to the extraordinary depth of talent, service, and commitment that defines Ross County,” said Mike Throne, President and CEO of the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce. “Each of our honorees represents the very best of what it means to invest — not just in a business, but in a community. We are incredibly proud to celebrate them.”
In addition, the following awards were presented:
Young Professional of the Year — Daniel Griesheimer
Daniel Griesheimer in an appearance on #LitterMediaLIVE
Daniel Griesheimer, founder of Ohio Creations and head of the newly established Greater Chillicothe Ross County Film Commission, was recognized for his years of dedication to building a local film community, mentoring area youth through the Paper City Mentorship Program, and championing Chillicothe as a destination for creative industry and economic development.
Corporate Citizenship Award — Lori Graves
Lori Graves in an appearance on #LitterMediaLIVE
Lori Graves, morning radio personality and stand-up comedian, received the Corporate Citizenship Award in recognition of her extensive and sustained community involvement, including coaching Special Olympics, hosting major community events, serving on the Majestic Theatre board, writing for the local newspaper, and organizing live comedy productions that have elevated Chillicothe’s arts and entertainment scene.
Legacy Award — Chillicothe Civic Theatre
Chillicothe Civic Theatre, celebrating its 58th season, was honored with the Legacy Award in recognition of nearly six decades of bringing live Broadway plays and musicals to Ross County. The entirely volunteer-run organization continues to grow from its home at 83 South Walnut Street, with its largest production to date — The SpongeBob Musical — set for July 2026.
Special Recognition — Jana Detty, RHF Enterprises/McDonald’s
Jana Detty appearing on a Litter Media Feature on Chillicothe McDonald’s 50th Anniversary in 2022
Jana Detty was awarded Special Recognition in honor of her remarkable 50 years of service to McDonald’s and the Ross County community. Beginning as a crew member and rising through the ranks to HR, Public Relations, and Advertising, Jana has been the face of McDonald’s in Ross County for five decades — while also dedicating countless volunteer hours to organizations including the Ronald McDonald House Charities, where she helped organize a fundraiser that raised nearly half a million dollars over ten years.
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About the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce
The Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce has served as the premier business organization in Ross County since 1888. With more than 700 business investors and a mission to connect investors and partners to resources that drive growth and change, the Chamber is a vital hub for business development, advocacy, workforce support, and community engagement. For more information, visit chillicotheohio.com or call (740) 702-2722.
