CAMDEN — The 40th annual Preble County Chamber of Commerce Awards, held Thursday, Jan. 26, at Wilderness Ridge Retreat Center, recognized several businesses and individuals from across Preble County.

Sponsored by Reid Health and Kettering Health, the evening also served as the graduation ceremony for the 2022 Leadership Preble County cohort.

Chamber Executive Director Karen Moss welcomed those in attendance. “We’re delighted to be here tonight to recognize and celebrate some very special people in our community,” she noted.

“We appreciate everyone being here tonight, and appreciate Wilderness Ridge and Executive Chef Case Eyrich and his crew here at Wilderness Ridge for hosting us. We are so thankful to have this beautiful venue right here in our county.

“Tonight, we gather to celebrate our 2022 successes,” Moss continued. “A total of 90 nominations were submitted representing 58 individuals and businesses. Those recognized tonight are the finalists from that group and are known for being difference-makers in Preble County, and the chamber is honored to share their achievements with you.”

The chamber’s 2022 chair, Jason Troutwine from Reid Health, also welcomed everyone. “It’s a pleasure to be here as we celebrate Preble County and the accomplishments of so many people in this room,” Troutwine said. “I serve as a member of the administrative team at Reid Health, and we are proud to be a presenting sponsor of tonight’s gala. Reid has been a strong partner of the chamber for several years. Helping the chamber serve our community has been a long-time priority of Craig Kinyon, our president and CEO who is here with us this evening, and we plan to continue that support for years to come. I would also like to thank our co-presenting sponsor, Kettering Health, for their continued support of the chamber.

“Later in the program we will recognize all of tonight’s gala sponsors, but I would like to express my gratitude to all of our chamber members, sponsors and partners that work with us throughout the year. Your investment in the chamber allows us to continuously provide our members with valuable benefits and advocate for business growth and professional engagement in Preble County. Put simply, you make what we do possible. And we are very grateful. 2022 was an amazing year for the chamber. Your membership, and our community partners, enabled us to accomplish a great deal throughout the year — and, we broke a few records. I’ll share a few highlights:

“We welcomed 22 new chamber members.

” We launched the 7th cohort of Leadership Preble County and have a record number of applicants. That is a great program.

“We had 90 businesses participate in the Annual Business Expo and had a great turnout.

“We awarded a scholarship to Paige Lee of National Trail High School.

“We had 29 teams participate in the Chamber Classic Scholarship Golf Outing. That event helps to raise funds for scholarships and supports chamber programming.

“The board participated in a strategic planning retreat led by Rick Haines from Edison State in June.

“We saw a heightened interest in board membership, welcoming seven new members.

“We honored Virginia Lindsey with an open house in December as she retired from the chamber after 28 years of loyal service. We are delighted that Virginia and her family are with us this evening.

“Holly Finkel joined our team in December as the Member & Engagement Coordinator and she has hit the ground running and was instrumental in making this evening possible.”

The chamber’s 2023 chair Chris Straszheim of Kettering Health recognized the board’s out-going board chair, Troutwine, and board members Jeff Sewert, Cindy Kaufman, and Kelly McQueen, who were not in attendance Thursday evening. Straszheim also spoke about the upcoming year.

“You may or not be aware, but the chamber’s tagline is ‘Promote. Engage. Advance. Lead,’” Straszheim said. “2023 is the year, as we continue to expand our capacity to see smiling faces and embrace the return to normalcy, we are focusing on engagement.

“Engaging with our members to learn more about their needs through site visits, phone calls, and surveys

“Helping our members to engage in cost-saving, value-added products and services available to employers through the SOCA benefit programs.

“Providing opportunities for members to engage with each other through Business After Hours, Lunch & Learn sessions, and other networking events.

“Engaging community partners with sponsorship opportunities that reflect their vision and mission

“It’s going to be an exciting year, please stay tuned and engaged with us.”

Longtime Chamber Secretary Virginia Lindsey was also honored for her 28 years of service to the chamber. She was recognized with a presentation from Congressman Warren Davidson presented by Ben Thaeler, and a proclamation from Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. John Husted by Derek Chancellor.

Leadership Preble County graduates

The members of the sixth cohort of LPC were recognized for their completion of the 2022 round of the program. Those individuals included Ashley Fuller, Brooke Warren, Benjamin Gunderson, Claudia Edwards, Joseph Ferriell, Mindy Brower, Todd Duke, Lori Hobbs and Aaron Kimmel. Hobbs and Kimmel were not in attendance.

“The leadership program would not have been possible without Kettering’s initial investment, and we say thank you, and look forward to our continued partnership to build stronger, more effective leaders for our communities, local government and businesses. Kettering Health & the Grandview Foundation came aboard as the Lead Sponsor upon the program’s inception. They have continued to support the program ever since, and they have enthusiastically committed to a five-year investment extension,” Moss told those in attendance. “The Preble County Development Partnership has supported the program as a Supporting Level Sponsor since its inception in 2016. We would also like to recognize IU East for their recent investment as Lead Sponsor of the Jr. Leadership Preble County program, relaunching in 2024.”

Jeremy Meredith, an LPC graduate who serves as Kettering Health’s Administrative Director of Critical Care, helped present this year’s graduates.

“If you aren’t familiar with Leadership Preble County, it was launched in 2016 as a seven-month course designed to educate, train and encourage local Preble County professionals to take a leadership role in their communities. The program kicks off each fall with an overnight retreat right here at Wilderness Ridge, and then students meet monthly for sessions taught by professionals in their field of expertise. Including tonight’s graduates, over 60 individuals have graduated from the program. Many in attendance tonight have had that distinct honor and privilege and learn and grow from the program.”

Awards

Awards presented Thursday evening included Outstanding Small Business, Outstanding Mid-Size Business, Outstanding Large Business, Outstanding Agribusiness, Community Improvement Award, Outstanding Non-Profit, Young Professional of the Year, Excellence in Leadership, and Educator of the Year.

Outstanding Small Business finalists included Miley Construction, Prodigy Salon and Spa, and Wood Propane.

“While each of these businesses have a unique focus: construction, hair and beauty treatments, propane services — they also have a common theme according to their nominators,” presenter Zach Shafer said. “Miley Construction, Prodigy Salon and Spa, and Wood Propane consistently go above and beyond in their business practices while also being supportive of their communities through donations, volunteering time and services. We received a record number of nominations for the award, and each of these businesses should be proud of the impact they’re making.”

The 2022 Outstanding Small Business Award recipient was Miley Construction.

“Miley Construction owned by Chris Miley has been in business for 36 years. Its customer base shows a level of trust and passion that is to be envied. This business is known for being a ‘behind the scenes’ rock star and has been an inspiration by helping many local non-profit organizations with free services and materials, volunteering on local boards, and providing construction experience and tools for projects with the Boy Scouts,” Shafer noted.

Outstanding Mid-Size Business Award finalists were Ohio Slitting and Storage, and Skyline Chili Eaton.

“Ohio Slitting and Storage located in Camden, slits and stores coils of steel for companies all over the country, and they recently announced an expansion that will bring another 30 jobs to the area. While Skyline Chili is famous for its cheese coneys, Skyline Chili Eaton is well known for its top-notch customer service, being great to its employees, and being generous in the community. Both finalists deserve recognition here tonight, and I congratulate this year’s nominee,” Shafer noted.

The Outstanding Mid-Size Business Award went to Skyline Chili Eaton.

“Skyline Chili Eaton has donated thousands of dollars to local organizations as well as donated food for volunteers. They have provided a safe space and a wholesome family atmosphere for area youth to hang out and make friends. Skyline Chili Eaton is an outstanding community citizen,” Shafer said.

The 2022 Outstanding Large Business Award which recognizes a business with 100-plus employees which has been in business for at least three years and has proven to be an outstanding community citizen was presented to Bullen Ultrasonics, the lone nominee.

“Bullen Ultrasonics uses a portion of its profits for sustainable development projects in our community and around the world. Bullen supports everything from local Little League teams, Junior Fair sales, meals on wheels, and H.I.T. Foundation to Global charities like World Hope, Aruna and Youth for Christ. Bullen is committed to the well-being of its employees and provides 8 hours of community service time to each employee to allow them to help the charities that are near and dear to their heart. Earlier this month Bullen Ultrasonics announced plans to expand its Technology Development Center (TDC) in Eaton and will invest more than $14 million to expand the TDC and in new technologies advancing R&D efforts,” Shafer said.

Outstanding Agribusiness and Community Improvement Awards were presented by Chamber Board member Maria Morgan.

Finalists for Outstanding Agribusiness or Organization were Eaton Brubaker Grain Store, Preble Soil and Water Conservation District, and Vonderhaar Farms.

“As a rural community, Preble County has a long tradition of having strong agribusinesses and organizations,”Morgan said.

“These finalists are not only known for their business success but for being generous with their time, talent, and treasure. They support local, hire local, give back to the agricultural community. They help educate, sponsor, and elevate the agriculture experience in Preble County.”

The recipient of the 2022 Outstanding Agribusiness was Preble County Soil & Water District. “Their nominator writes ‘BJ Price, Savannah Ballweg and their teams have been a tremendous support for the conservation efforts of Preble County. They not only survey, do soil samplings, offer informational support to the local farming community, but they offer a conservation camp for kids every summer to not only teach conservation but to explore careers in conservation which is crucial for keep our rural community as it is,’” Morgan read.

The Community Improvement Award recognizes a municipality, organization or business which has made physical improvements toward the betterment of the Preble County community. Finalists for the 2022 Community Improvement Awards were the City of Eaton Public Maintenance Division, Star Theatre, and Village of Camden.

“From the renovation of an old school auditorium, to upgrading our parks and beautifying our towns — all three of our finalists have improved the Preble County landscape in their own way, and all three deserve recognition this evening,” Morgan noted.

The recipient of the Community Improvement Award was the Star Theatre. “The Star Theatre is part of the historic renovation of the former Eaton High School. The facility can seat over 300 people and is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and projection equipment. In addition to first-run movies, The Star serves as a venue for live performances, concerts, and other community events,” Morgan said.

The Outstanding Non-Profit and Young Professional of the Year Awards were presented by Chamber Board member Jason Heggs from Henny Penny.

Outstanding Non-Profit Award finalists were Food 4 Families; The Little Shoppe of Sharing and the Preble County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

“Based on the nominations for this award, we could also call it the “big heart award” because that is the theme running through so many of the nominator comments,” Heggs said. “Here are just a few of them:

“They work tirelessly to see that a difference is made in the lives of people in need. They have a huge heart and anytime I need help with food down at the church they always come through for me.

“Often after hardship, this is the first place many in the community come for help. The ladies who work there – if they are unable to provide an item that an individual needs – will help the individual find it.

“They have a passion for inclusiveness. We should all take a page from their book when it comes to accepting all people, with all abilities and strengths.

“All three of these organizations are worthy of recognition tonight,” he noted.

The recipient of the 2022 Preble County Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Non-Profit Award was the Little Shoppe of Sharing.

“Located in The Dover Community Center in Camden, the Little Shoppe of Sharing was founded in 2007 and serves the entire Preble County area by offering clothing, household items, baby items, etc. to those in need at no cost. All the items are donated by community members and additional funds to support the mission are raised by selling name brand items in the boutique. The Little Shoppe is also a partner in a county-wide back to school program that provides school supplies and shoes to local students,” Heggs read.

The Young Professional of the Year Award recognizes a professional who is 40 years of age or younger who has made and continues to make significant contributions to his or her business, and the Preble County community. This year’s Young Professional finalists were Ross Childers, Greg Eley, and Carla Risner.

“Ross Childers is from West Alexandria and owns Childers Home Improvement. He has coached youth baseball and served on the board for the West Alexandria Baseball Organization.

“Greg Eley lives in Lewisburg and is the owner of GE Auto Detailing. He is actively involved in Preble County organizations and events, sponsoring soccer and baseball teams, car shows and Preble Arts just to name a few.

“Carla Risner who resides in Camden, works as a first surgical assistant at Fort Hamilton Hospital and co-owns and operates Risner Cleaning. She serves as a Council Member on Camden’s Village Council and as a Board Member on Camden Comeback.

“Though they all serve in different capacities in different fields, each of them works daily to make Preble County a better place, and we are delighted to recognize them as finalists for this award,” Heggs said.

Eley was recognized as the 2022 Preble County Chamber of Commerce Young Professional of the Year. His father accepted the award on his behalf.

“Greg Eley started detailing cars as a hobby during high school and from that humble beginning, GE Auto Detailing was birthed. This prosperous small business provides auto detailing service for any vehicle, motorcycle, RV, equipment, or semi. Multiple nominators wrote of Greg’s commitment to continuing education and training in his field so that he can offer the highest quality services to his customers. This dedication to continuous improvement has enabled him to expand his business beyond detailing to include ceramic coating and window tinting. As one nominator put it ‘Greg deserves this award based on his work ethic, his constant desire to improve himself and his skills, and his commitment to Preble County,” Heggs read.

Chris Spradlin, President of Edison State Community College and Board Member of the Preble County Chamber of Commerce, presented the Excellence in Leadership and Educator of the Year awards.

The Excellence in Leadership Award recognizes any community member who has contributed to the betterment of Preble County through service, leadership, or volunteerism.

Finalists for the award were Megan Jamison Griffis, Eric Montgomery, and Lisa White.

“Megan Jamison Griffis has demonstrated excellent leadership in the Preble County community through her involvement with the Downtown Eaton Initiative, and, the Preble County Pork Festival. Megan was the impetus for reviving the 2022 Pork Festival after it had been cancelled, and in only eight weeks, produced an event that brought out tens of thousands of attendees and was the first financially successful festival in six years! Megan is also a member of the newest cohort Leadership Preble County,” Spradlin said.

“Some leaders are more demonstrative while others lead quietly but command respect. Eric Montgomery is that type of leader. His community involvement is widely known as is his reputation for giving back through volunteer efforts, donating valuable services from his lawn and landscaping business, and, promoting and supporting other small businesses. He has organized and held benefits for local families in need; volunteered time and services to organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, H.I.T. Foundation, Preble County Fairgrounds, Preble County Historical Society, and, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, just to name a few. He is a huge advocate for promoting and shopping small and local and he constantly shares and promotes other businesses. Eric is also a member of the newest cohort Leadership Preble County.

“Our third finalist, Lisa White, is another example of excellence in leadership. As Executive Director of the Preble County Historical Society, she has elevated the organization’s reputation and success with fresh educational programs, creative fund-raising ideas, and rich collaboration with others. In her “spare” time, Lisa serves on the Convention and Visitors Bureau Board, is a member of Rotary, coaches two high school color guard teams, and this spring she assisted with the Eaton Country Club’s 100th Centennial Birthday — in addition to participating in and supporting other events throughout the county,” Spradlin continued. “All three are deserving nominees that have contributed to the betterment of Preble County through service, leadership, and volunteerism.”

The 2022 Excellence in Leadership Award was presented to White.

“One nominator writes ‘I have been involved with the Preble County Historical Society for over 12 years. It has seen many up and downs but the most ups I’ve witnessed has been since Lisa has taken over. She has taken the programs, property rentals and venues to another level. Her organizational skills and community involvement is second to none. She is in all four corners of the county and everywhere between educating and promoting what they do and what they have to offer. I don’t usually get involved in these types of things but felt it was a must for Lisa because she is so deserving,’” Spradlin shared.

The final award of the evening was Educator of the Year. This award was introduced in 2019 and seeks to recognize an educator or administrator who goes above and beyond to aid in the education and success of Preble County students.

“We typically only name three finalists, but the pool of nominees was so strong that we included four this year,” Spradlin shared.

The finalists for the Educator of the Year Award were Julie Herrmann of Camden Primary School, Shawn Hoff with the Preble County Educational Service Center, Kevin Kochensparger of Eaton High School, and Camela Van Leeuwen of Tri-County North Elementary.

“Julie Herrmann is a leader who is-child centered and makes sure that each student is treated as an individual meeting all of their needs mentally, physically, and emotionally. Julie is forward thinking in terms of instructional strategies to use in the classroom. She is an active mentor to our new staff and teachers and her communication skills allow parents to feel welcomed in her classroom. Julie is compassionate, caring and giving. She is a true role model for our students and professional staff,” Spradlin read.

“Shawn Hoff is dedicated to serving the Preble County Schools and ensuring every student has an opportunity to excel. He has been a driving force for many programs that have been or that will soon be implemented, to serve at-risk students in all of Preble County. Shawn is constantly thinking of ‘work-arounds’ when challenges or obstacles come up. Shawn also works to build relationships throughout the community, to bring everyone to the table when it comes to ensuring our county moves forward in supporting all of our students.

“Mr. Kevin Kochensparger has been going above and beyond for the students of Eaton High School for 40 years. He is that math teacher who will do whatever it takes to try and reach a student (any student) when it comes to understanding Math concepts. He is patient; he is well prepared and above all, he is flexible and fluid. He understands that through the years, the world changes and thus the way students communicate and process changes. Mr. ‘K’ is not that teacher who teaches today the same way he did 10, 20, 30 and yes, even 40 years ago. He has adapted, so his present students can learn.

“Camela Van Leeuwen individualizes her classroom and her lessons to each new roster that is assigned to her class. She has achieved the highest state testing scores for the last four years running with averages above 80 percent proficient and this is not because her students have come in prepared for 4th grade material. It is because she focuses on the needs of her students, addresses those needs, and makes her students feel safe to learn and grow in her classroom. She is kind to all, willing to help all, successful in finding ways to improve each year, supportive of staff and students, and a genuinely good person who puts the needs of her students, peers, and school at the top of her list,” Spradlin noted.

“Each of the finalists is deserving of recognition and are worthy nominees who clearly go above and beyond to aid in the education and success of Preble County students,” he said.

Kochensparger was recognized as the Educator of the Year.

“While he is coming to the stage, let’s hear what one of his former students had to say,” Spradlin said. “’I had a learning disability problem in math which was one of my worst subjects and when I was put in his classroom I was scared and nervous. But after having him and learning that he cared and made sure I was learning, math actually became fun!’”

For more information regarding the Preble County Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Preble County or other programming, visit www.preblecountyohio.com.

Reach Eddie Mowen Jr. at 937-683-4061 and follow on Twitter @emowenjr.