Chamber announces award nominees

VW independent/Chamber of Commerce information

The Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2014 Ray Miller and Crystal Image finalists. These two award recipients along with Milestone and Golden Shovel recognition awards will be presented at the 92nd Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Thursday, January 30, at Willow Bend Country Club, featuring Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation Administrator Steve Buehrer as keynote speaker.

The Ray Miller Award finalists include Eric McCracken of Lee Kinstle GM Sales and Service, Eric Hurless of Stahl Stoller Myer Insurance Center and Gary Taylor of Taylor Auto Sales. These three outstanding individuals were nominated for their strong commitment to the community through volunteer work, participation in community organizations and outstanding service to the Van Wert community. Last year’s Ray Miller award was presented to attorney Chuck Koch for his long history and commitment to community development.

Crystal Image Award finalists include Main Street Van Wert and StateWide Ford Lincoln. Both nominees, though quite different in their structure and mission, were nominated for their demonstrated leadership within the Van Wert community through their many faceted contributions, including business responsibility, productivity strength, employee empowerment, and service to the community. Eaton Corporation received the 2013 Crystal Image Award for its outstanding economic impact and community service.

“The Van Wert business community has made tremendous strides in hiring and investments in their businesses over the last year,” stated Chamber President/CEO Susan Munroe. “Room to still grow and expand … absolutely. But this event provides an opportunity to set aside an evening to celebrate our accomplishments and honor those individuals and businesses that invest their time and resources into helping our community build economic success.”

The Chamber would like to thank the following companies for their generous support of this important annual event that recognizes the many area businesses and individuals for their accomplishments and contributions to the greater Van Wert area:

Premier Sponsors: Alexander & Bebout, Inc. and Central Insurance Companies

Awards Sponsors: Van Wert County Hospital, Vantage Career Center, Van Wert Manor, Culligan Koorsen Fire and Security and U.S. Bank.

There are limited seats still available for the Chamber Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Thursday, January 30, at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Bend Country Club. Contact the Chamber by this Friday, January 24, at 419.238.4390 or email chamber@vanwertchamber.com. Those wanting to attend can also register online at the Chamber website: www.vanwertchamber.com.