Chamber of Commerce awards local businesses
The Greenbriar Event Center hosted a veritable “who’s who” of the Wooster business community, as over 800 of the city’s leading citizens gathered for the annual dinner of the Chamber of Commerce of Wooster.
The goal was to give awards to businesses and business owners in a variety of categories.
Chamber President Justin Starlin explained, “It’s very important for the community to recognize the positive contributions, both individually and from a business perspective. As we continue to grow, how we differentiate ourselves from other communities is [through] true, proactive community participation.”
Ohio Christian Children’s Home took home the Worthy Works Award, Scott Rotolo of the Wooster Police Dept. picked up the Leadership Wooster Distinguished Alumni Award, while Rodd Welker, of Eagle Advisor Group, collected the Mike Lezak Award for Volunteer Service.
Wayne Savings Bank won the Board of Directors Award, the Wooster Inn took the award for Small Business of the Year with over 15 employees and the Lerch’s Donuts received Small Business of the Year with under 15 employees.
As the night matured, the Jack O’Donnell Award for Community Service was won by Bob Gorman of Critchfield, Critchfield & Johnston for his dedication to worthy causes, including his involvement in Rotary Club and the WCSD.
The two final awards were the most anticipated, with State Representative Scott Wiggam and a representative of Congressman Renacci giving out the honors.
Business of the Year went to Tekfor USA.
The company came upon hard times during the 2008 Recession, accruing huge losses and was near closure.
Under new management, the company has been growing since 2010 and has recently expanded.
After receiving the award, Tekfor USA’s President Kevin Weldi said, “It’s a recognition of a lot of people doing a lot of good things, to be honest, and we are absolutely honored and blessed that the community has recognized it. We’re just proud to accept it.”
The final award went to Audrey Beaverson, the former president of Wooster Motor Ways and a considerable patron of volunteer fire departments around Wayne County.
