1/23/2008
Rhoades, Starr and Central win Chamber awards
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| Jon Rhoades accepts the Ray Miller Award at Tuesday evening’s Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner and Awards Banquet. Rhoades was honored for his commitment to the Van Wert community. |
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By ED GEBERT
Times Bulletin News Writer
It was a night for Van Wert area business people to mingle and to recognize a few special colleagues.
The Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Dinner and Awards Banquet Tuesday evening at Jehmms Banquet Center. Among the winners was Jon Rhoades who was presented the prestigious Ray Miller Award. The award is given to a Van Wert resident who has demonstrated strong commitment to the community through volunteer work, participation in organizations, and outstanding service to the community.
"I could never repay what you people have given me," Rhoades told the audience. "I really do appreciate it. It's never been work. It's always been fun."
Kate Gribble, president of the Chamber, said of Rhoades, "He has a true passion and allegiance to the people of the Van Wert area and the success and growth of our community."
Rhoades retired as vice president of Central Insurance in 2002 after 42 years in the insurance business. He also serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Starr Commonwealth, Chairman of the Community Improvement Corporation, and has involvements with the board of directors of the Van Wert County Hospital and the Van Wert County YMCA.
The Crystal Image Award went to Starr Commonwealth and Montcalm School for Girls. This award is presented annually to a chamber investor business that demonstrates leadership in many ways in the community.
"Starr programs help more than 5,000 children, families, and professionals find a new beginning," stated Gribble.
A special award was given to Central Insurance. Edd Buhl accepted the Community Cornerstone Award on behalf of the company which recently completed a $50 million building expansion at its headquarters in Van Wert.
Buhl thanked the Chamber, "On behalf of our employees, our agents, but most importantly, our policyholders. We couldn't have accomplished what we have in this community. We believe in this community and I appreciate the recognition on behalf of all of us."
Milestone Recognition Awards were also handed out to Peoplelink for 10 years in business, Steve Bailey State Farm Insurance for 25 years, Braun Industries for 35 years, Van-Del Drive-In for 60 years, Federal Mogul for 65 years, and Cowan & Son Funeral Home for 100 years in business.
Four businesses were also given Golden Shovel Awards in recognition of recent building renovations or expansions. Representatives from Kennedy-Kuhn, Everyday Travel, Kennedy Manufacturing and Central Insurance Companies were each given plaques to celebrate their new facilities.
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