15th Annual NOACC Chamber Bright Star Summit & Awards

2023 BRIGHT STARS

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Amber Ballard Pam Bard-Steel Dennis Baughman Jill Boden Julie Boyer Heather Brickner Michele Catlett Dan Crandall Merrissa Creadon Geoffrey Dennis Jerry Fritz Heather Gilchrist Joshua Greene Terri Harrison Jozie Hickman Alana Hill Ilasha Jackson Erin Jagels Terry Killeen Cathy Kingsley Rachael Jolly Kosakowski Abbie Leska Don Lloyd Jenny Luhta Kristen Mignogna Scott Morrison Cheryl Myatt Jessa New Katy Page The Palmer Family Sharon Pearson Cathy Peters Tracey Phillips Sarah Poland Mark Priebe Shelena Racquel Madison Radke Larry Sanders Stacie Schmidt Virginia Schmidt Fallon Schwab Dr. Nicolette Scott Dave Segen Dona Taylor Evan Webster Sandra Wentz William Widlits Kristy Wortketter

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216-447-9900

info@noacc.org

Celebrating 15 Years of Volunteer Recognition NOACC CELEBRATES THE 15TH ANNUAL AWARDS EVENT HONORING VOLUNTEERS AND CHAMBER LEADERS FROM ACROSS NORTHERN OHIO FOR THEIR TIME AND DEDICATION.

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olunteering is one of the most noble things one can do to contribute to the community. The Bright Star Awards program is a shining recognition of the value that chamber volunteers bring to the table.

After all, chamber heroes don’t wear capes; they wear volunteer badges. Their passionate commitment to making their chamber of commerce a better place is contagious, and their unwavering dedication to the cause is inspiring. The Bright Star Awards program celebrates the hidden gems of the chamber world and puts them in the spotlight where they belong.

To quote English poet Joseph Addison: “No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another.”

Thank you to all the volunteers who give their time, talent and tenacity to help lighten the load for our chamber leaders, staff and boards. What you do matters!

Sincerely, Cindy Holzheimer, NOACC President/CEO NOACC, an association of over 137 chambers from northern Ohio established in 1995, is dedicated to elevating chambers and chamber professionals through dynamic resources and cost-saving solutions for chamber-member businesses. Visit noacc.org for more information.

AN EVENING TO REMEMBER

The 15th Annual NOACC Chamber Bright Star Summit & Awards, sponsored by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, was held Oct. 27 at the beautifully renovated Sawmill Creek Resort. The event celebrated more than 50 amazing chamber volunteers with a special evening of recognition.

Two new awards were added this year: Chamber Executive of the Year and Chamber Event of the Year.

Missy McWhorter, executive director of the Fairlawn Area Chamber of Commerce and NOACC board chair, says, “The act of volunteering one’s time creates the opportunity to grow personally and professionally by learning new skills that can be incredibly valuable. Being in the chamber arena, a volunteer has the fortuity of embedding into a fabulously diverse environment with endless possibilities. At this year’s 15th Annual Bright Star Awards, we had the pleasure of celebrating these amazing individuals for giving their time so selflessly to keep our chambers succeeding.

Congratulations to our award winners!”

CONGRATULATIONS BRIGHT STAR AWARD WINNERS!

clevelandmagazine.com

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Member Spotlights MEET LOCAL CHAMBER MEMBERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES. Amber Ballard

Heather Brickner

CHAMBER: Grand Valley Area

CHAMBER: Ottawa Area

Gazette Newspapers Chamber of Commerce

Amber is the chamber’s treasurer and always goes above and beyond in all event and fundraising efforts and fosters connections with current and potential members.

The chamber would not be able to function as it does without Amber’s efforts that go far beyond her duties as treasurer.

Pam Bard-Steel Bard Manufacturing

CHAMBER: Bryan Area Chamber of Commerce

Pam has spearheaded a brand-new event in Bryan, Flair on the Square.

She has been a great asset to the local community.

Dennis Baughman

AG Credit

Chamber of Commerce

Heather attends every function and supports the chamber’s mission. She is a team player and lends a hand whenever she can. She is a true community leader.

Michele Catlett

Consumer’s National Bank CHAMBER: Carroll County

Chamber of Commerce

Michele has been a dedicated member of the chamber for 20-plus years. She sits on the board, is active in many chamber/CVB committees, participates in chamber events and volunteers her time in promoting the chamber. We couldn’t do it without her.

Jerry Fritz

First Congregational United Church of Andover CHAMBER: Pymatuning Area

Chamber of Commerce

Jerry is a true leader in every sense of the word. He is a pastor in one of the chamber’s member churches, a board member, organizes the People in the Park Concert Series and gives graciously of his time to all chamber activities.

Heather Gilchrist VacationLand FCU

CHAMBER: Erie County

Chamber of Commerce

Heather has a sincere passion and heart for the chamber and her position as an ambassador. She shows excitement about volunteering, has great ideas and works fast.

The Lash Lounge

Dan Crandall

Joshua Greene

Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER: North Olmsted

CHAMBER: Nordonia Hills

CHAMBER: Rocky River

Dedicated, energetic and present, Dennis makes every effort to be engaged in the chamber through enthusiastically serving on four volunteer committees and as a member of the board of directors, as well as attending nearly every event.

Great Northern Mall

Chamber of Commerce

Dan is always willing to help with luncheons and events. He invites guests to attend events and join the chamber, makes connections and introductions, and promotes and supports the chamber tirelessly.

Jill Boden

Merrissa Creadon

CHAMBER: Carey Area Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER: Fairview Park

Wyandot Memorial Hospital

Jill has been one of the chamber’s ambassadors for more than four years. This year she has gone above and beyond helping the Carey Chamber with its first gala.

Julie Boyer

Olmsted Township

CHAMBER: Olmsted Chamber of Commerce

Julie goes above and beyond in support of the chamber. She is a committed and invaluable volunteer whose ideas have helped the organization see tremendous growth.

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BRIGHT STARS 2023

BFY Life

Chamber of Commerce

Josh is the perfect candidate for this year’s Bright Star Award. He consistently goes above and beyond, speaks his mind, shares ideas and excels in website management. Josh is a witty and valuable asset to the chamber board.

Dollar Bank

Terri Harrison

Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER: Lakewood Chamber of Commerce

Merrissa is an avid contributor, always willing to step forward and help. She brings a wonderful, infectious enthusiasm to all she does.

Geoffrey Dennis Dollar Bank

CHAMBER: Middleburg Heights

Chamber of Commerce

Geoff is dedicated to the success of the chamber and consistently volunteers to assist with chamber events.

Since taking on the role of president in January 2023, he has provided much assistance and creativity in promoting chamber events and growing membership.

T. Harrison & Associates Inc.

Terri is board treasurer and goes above and beyond, volunteering on nearly every committee to lend a hand. She has spent countless hours helping at every meeting and event.

Her dedication is much appreciated.

Jozie Hickman

Herman Funeral Homes and Crematory CHAMBER: Chamber of Commerce

of Sandusky County

Jozie is a chamber ambassador, serves on the marketing/events committee and is the Sandusky County Young Professional Group’s president. She goes above and beyond to help however she can.

Alana Hill Dollar Bank

CHAMBER: Heights-Hillcrest Regional

Chamber of Commerce

Alana, Dollar Bank branch manager and HRCC board member, is a pleasure to work with and is always someone who can be counted on to show up and share laughs.

Ilasha Jackson Dollar Bank

CHAMBER: Cuyahoga East

Chamber of Commerce

Ilasha is a willing volunteer and passionate about helping businesses grow. She serves on the chamber’s Business Leadership Council and was instrumental in the formation of the Maple Heights chapter.

Erin Jagels PuroClean

CHAMBER: North Coast Chamber of Commerce

Erin is always open and accessible to volunteer for and assist with any NCCC event. She brings a smile and a helping hand to every chamber function.

Terry Killeen Illuminating Co.

CHAMBER: Parma Area

Chamber of Commerce

Terry is a Bright Star for his strong ethics, leadership and positive attitude in everything he does. He also keeps everyone laughing and is an invaluable asset to the chamber board.

Cathy Kingsley

Big Frog Custom T-Shirts CHAMBER: North Ridgeville

Chamber of Commerce

Cathy is the chamber’s membership chairperson and serves on the board of directors. She is instrumental in the success of the chamber, which saw membership increase by 30 this year.

Rachael Jolly Kosakowski Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates CHAMBER: Fairlawn Area

Chamber of Commerce

Rachael is a professional, compassionate and enthusiastic person who is motivated to get the job done with ease.

2023 Member Spotlights Abbie Leska

Kristen Mignogna

CHAMBER: Chagrin Valley

CHAMBER: Willoughby Western Lake County

Terra Blue Title Agency

Hupp Tax Service

Chamber of Commerce

Abbie chairs the Programs and Events Committee, and she can be found either attending or volunteering at every chamber event.

Don Lloyd

From Green to Clean Pools

CHAMBER: Brecksville Chamber of Commerce

Don is a driving force in the chamber’s latest fundraising effort called Beeopoly, which raises funds for both the chamber and the schools’ teacher-parent association. The fundraiser has been a tremendous success.

Jenny Luhta Halcyon

Chamber of Commerce

Kristen is not only the treasurer, but an avid supporter and volunteer for the WWLCC. Her hard work, dedication and thoughtfulness for the community exemplify the mission of the chamber.

Scott Morrison Discovery Photo

CHAMBER: Beachwood

Chamber of Commerce

Scott exhibits exemplary leadership, is always willing to help and always shows up. He consistently does more than asked and works to foster collaboration.

CHAMBER: Greater Ashtabula

Cheryl Myatt

Jenny has a heart of gold. She gives so much of her time, talent and treasure for the betterment of the chamber and community. You won’t find a better person.

CHAMBER: Cuyahoga Falls

Chamber of Commerce

CC Realty and Property Management LLC Chamber of Commerce

Jessa New

Slow Train Cafe and The Local Coffee and Tea

CHAMBER: Oberlin Business Partnership

Jessa has gumption and follow through. She chairs Oberlin’s downtown stakeholders’ group and singlehandedly created experienceoberlin.com, a tourist-facing website, bringing to fruition a long-requested community resource.

Katy Page

The Palmer Family/Vickie Eick and Karen Pennock Minerva Community Association CHAMBER: Minerva Area

Chamber of Commerce

Bill, Beverlee, Brad and Deborah Palmer, with Vickie Eick and Karen Pennock, have organized the Minerva homecoming parade, carnival and Community Building exhibits for 50 of its 100 years.

Sharon Pearson

As You Wish Luxury Travel

Wingate by Wyndham Lima Downtown

CHAMBER: Lorain County

Chamber of Commerce

Since joining the chamber, Sharon has been instrumental in expanding its mission and community involvement and overall membership numbers. She’s been a great leader on the executive board, too.

CHAMBER: Lima/Allen County

Katy is a community rockstar and chamber ambassador. She serves on several committees and volunteers for every event. The chamber appreciates Katy and all of her hard work and support for the organization.

Chamber of Commerce

Cheryl has been serving on the chamber board for several years and has been instrumental in helping with day-to-day operations.

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Congratulations to Lorain County Chamber of Commerce 2023 Bright Star

Sharon Pearson President, As You Wish Luxury Travel Owner, Wine Down on Vine

Contact AJ: 440.965.6868

Lorain County Mobility Mgr., United Way Lorain County Lorain County Chamber Exec Board Member Membership Committee Chair

Sharon could be described as someone who has dedicated herself to Public Service, by working for the City of Oberlin for over 25 years with an additional 6 years on Oberlin City Council. Sharon could be described as someone who is a serial entrepreneur, by opening several businesses with her husband AJ Clontz. Sharon could also be described as someone dedicated to improving transportation needs for the residents of Lorain County with her work as the Lorain County Mobility Manager.

The best description of Sharon is someone who cares deeply about Lorain County, and she has dedicated her life to improving it!

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2023 Member Spotlights Cathy Peters

Sarah Poland

Shelena Racquel

Larry Sanders

CHAMBER: Chardon Area

CHAMBER: Galion-Crestline Area

CHAMBER: Euclid Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER: Genoa Area

PuroClean of Western Reserve Chamber of Commerce

CSI Insurance

Chamber of Commerce

Diary of Queen Esther

Sarah is the chamber’s ambassador chair for a reason. She is at every event possible with a smile and positive words, and she truly knows the mission of the chamber.

Shelena is a very active chamber member, always promoting the benefits of the chamber to new businesses. She uses the chamber to grow her business and uses her business to grow the chamber.

Tracey Phillips

Mark Priebe

Madison Radke

CHAMBER: Louisville Area

CHAMBER: Northern Medina County

CHAMBER: Green Area

Cathy is an absolute powerhouse of support by way of volunteering and sponsorship to the businesses, organizations and people of the Chardon area.

Louisville Public Library Chamber of Commerce

The Louisville Area Chamber board unanimously voted for Tracey, as she is the go-to member for ideas. She is detail driven, and her dedication is greatly appreciated.

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BRIGHT STARS 2023

Proximity Marketing Chamber Alliance

Mark has given hundreds of hours of his time volunteering for the chamber. He has been on the board, chaired numerous committees and allows the chamber to have offices at his business. Whenever the chamber needs assistance, Mark is the first person who offers to help.

The Village of St. Edward Chamber of Commerce

Madison is the Green Chamber board president. She attends all events and committee meetings, including those for the multichamber Young Professionals organization. She also coordinates Link’d Up & Young Professionals.

She organized the board retreat and is a great ambassador.

Genoa Classic Cars

Chamber of Commerce

Larry is a wonderful asset to the community. His dedication to the chamber’s car shows is greatly appreciated.

Stacie Schmidt Stark Enterprises

CHAMBER: West Shore Chamber of Commerce

Stacie has served on the chamber’s board for years.

She is the first to volunteer and help the chamber with any projects. She is a born leader.

Virginia Schmidt Commtrol

CHAMBER: Solon Chamber of Commerce

Virginia sets a new standard for service and selflessness by always putting the best interests of the Solon Chamber first. Virginia always asks the right questions.

2023 Member Spotlights Fallon Schwab

Dave Segen

Evan Webster

William Widlits

CHAMBER: Ravenna Area

CHAMBER: Stow Munroe Falls

CHAMBER: Aurora Chamber of

CHAMBER: Geneva Area

DJ Krooze and the Krewway Experience Chamber of Commerce

Fallon has collaborated and donated her talents and skills to her hometown of Ravenna for the betterment of the community. She has a heart of gold and truly is a beautiful, selfless soul.

Bellacino’s Pizza and Grinders Chamber of Commerce

As president of the chamber’s board, Dave is an exceptional leader and has been a positive catalyst for change not only within the chamber, but in the community as well.

The Campus of Anna Maria of Aurora Commerce & Visitors Bureau

Evan is the brightest star in Aurora. He is always the first one to volunteer, sponsor and arrive at meetings and events early to help. The chamber can always count on Evan.

Dr. Nicolette Scott

Dona Taylor

Sandra Wentz

CHAMBER: Berea Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER: Eastern Lake County

CHAMBER: Copley Chamber of Commerce

Broad View Eye Center

Nicolette has been a critical part of the chamber for many years. She is an enthusiastic volunteer whose energy is contagious. Her input has helped the chamber soar.

Deepwood Industries Chamber of Commerce

Dona understands the value of being truly engaged with the chamber. She attends every event with a smile, and she serves on the Membership Committee.

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Sandra has consistently gone above and beyond as membership chair, setting the standard and helping create a 56% increase in members after just a year-and-a-half.

Lakehouse Airbnb, Madison Chamber of Commerce

Bill has served on the board of directors since January 2000. He serves on several committees, including the golf outing, Chinese auction, budget and investment, candidates night and chili cook-off.

He continues to be supportive in all of the chamber events and meetings.

Kristy Wortketter

The Gardens of St. Francis

CHAMBER: Eastern Maumee Bay

Chamber of Commerce

Kristy has great energy, and her positive attitude is infectious. She has hosted several chamber networking events at the Gardens of St. Francis, offered the space to house luncheons and has been a lead volunteer for many chamber events.

Congratulations to Bright Star

Sharon Pearson

from the Lorain County Chamber Membership Committee members!

Contact AJ: 440.965.6868

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YOUNGSTOWN WARREN REGIONAL CHAMBER

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1 Sole proprietors are eligible to participate in the SOCA Benefit Plan. However, due to regulatory requirements, total sole proprietor membership cannot exceed 10% of the total membership in the plan. A sole proprietor must meet certain underwriting requirements and must demonstrate they are working more than 30 hours per week. Sole proprietors must submit a cover page for Form 1040 with a Schedule C or a Schedule F and a Schedule SE as proof of sole proprietorship status. “Groups of one” are not eligible to participate in the SOCA Benefit Plan. Final participation and premium equivalent rates must be approved by Underwriting and the SOCA Benefit Plan.

115085OHBENABS-V3 Rev. 04/20

2 Sole proprietors are not eligible for group specialty benefits. Please contact your broker or agent for individual specialty products.

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