Photo: Jim and Darlis Jensen and Austin Shelp (center) along with their employees accept the CADC Spirit of Excellence Award in Breda Tuesday
An estimated $1 million investment in a new 17,550 square foot facility in Breda that opened in June of last year not only drew the attention of area community members, it has also resulted in recognition from the Carroll Area Development Corporation (CADC). On Tuesday, after opening their doors for a tour of the new building, Trophies Plus owners, Jim and Darlis Jensen, along with son, Austin Shelp, were presented with the Spirit of Excellence Award. Jim graciously accepted on behalf of the family and all employees.
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Trophies Plus was started in Templeton in 1984 by Doyle and Jane Engelen, and was purchased by the Jensens in 2011. Jim says that since the business opened, they have been pleased to see growth and to be able to discover something new each year.
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During the tour that showcased the work of their 22 employees and some of the items they produce on a daily basis, Shelp explained there is an unexpected rarity of some items we all take for granted. For instance, he said that when it comes to the traditional chenille letters, most often produced for secondary and post-secondary educational institutions, there are only about three suppliers left in the United States. Trophies Plus is the only one that still does that type of work in-house. They also produce trophies, medals, ribbons and plaques of course, but much, much more, including custom printing on just about any promotional item you can imagine. And when it came time for the CADC to purchase the latest Spirit of Excellence Award, they of course went to the best and hired Trophies Plus to produce their own plaque. The CADC presents the Spirit of Excellence Award to Carroll County business investments that result in a larger property tax base and additional, quality jobs.