Minerva Chamber honors businesses, community leader at annual awards dinner

The Minerva Area Chamber of Commerce recognized four businesses and one community leader during its 43rd annual dinner and Community Salute Awards May 21, celebrating contributions to local business, economic development and community service.

The annual event began with a meet-and-greet featuring Pro Football Hall of Famer and former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jack Ham. Ham later participated in a question-and-answer session moderated by Mike Gallina, vice president of Organizational Development and Community Engagement for Aultman Health Systems.

Following dinner, Gallina delivered a motivational presentation titled “Celebrating Your CHAMPionship Journey,” in which he encouraged attendees to value and support one another. He discussed qualities of successful leaders and teams, using the acronym “CHAMPS” to represent Courage, Heart, Attitude, Motivation, Perseverance and Sacrifice.

During the awards portion of the evening, Allyson Bussey, president and CEO of Visit Canton, presented tourism awards, while Minerva Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Nathan Meadows and members of the chamber's board of directors presented Community Salute Awards.

Bussey presented Visit Canton's Destination Impact Award to the Minerva Area Chamber of Commerce in recognition of the organization's efforts to enhance Stark County's tourism landscape, improve visitor experiences, support economic development and strengthen community vibrancy.

Amanda and Andy Conrad, owners of Sandy Springs Brewing Company, The Arcade, The Brewer's Quarters and Century House, and part-owners of Great Trail Golf Course, received Visit Canton's Tourism Ambassador Award. The award recognizes leadership, hospitality and dedication to improving the visitor experience throughout the region.

The chamber's Community Salute Awards recognized businesses and individuals making a positive impact on the Minerva area.

Heritage Tire and Auto Care received the Outstanding New Business Award. The business opened in October 2025 and is owned by Jim Kohmann, Ricco Perea and Matt Leeders, with support from Daystar Auto Group. The company was recognized for its commitment to providing honest diagnostics, quality repairs and customer service while building relationships throughout the community.

Summitville Tiles received the Outstanding Large Business Award. Founded in 1912 as the Summit Brick Company, the business later transitioned into tile manufacturing and remains a family-owned operation under the third and fourth generations of the Johnson family. Summitville Tiles is also the only charter member of the tile industry's national trade association still in business.

Que Pasa Mexican Restaurant received the Outstanding Small Business Award. Owner Jorge Nanco Olmos opened the restaurant in downtown Minerva in 2013. Operated by Olmos, his sister Jazmin Nanco and sons Kevin and Oscar Nanco, the restaurant has become a strong supporter of downtown events and community activities.

The Market Street Art Spot received the Economic Development Award. Established in 2011 as a cooperative gallery featuring resident artists, the organization has become a fixture in downtown Minerva's arts community. After relocating to a larger space in 2024, the gallery expanded its offerings of artwork, workshops and classes while continuing its monthly featured artist receptions.

Patricia Miller received the E. David Hank Community Appreciation Award and was honored with a standing ovation from attendees.

Miller was recognized as a longtime advocate for Minerva and a driving force behind numerous community initiatives. Her contributions include helping establish Minerva's 20/20 Vision Committee, supporting the revitalization of The Minerva Community Charitable Fund, assisting Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio, supporting the Minerva Area Chamber of Commerce and serving as vice president of the Minerva Education and Alumni Association, among many other volunteer and civic efforts.

The annual awards dinner highlighted the contributions of businesses, organizations and individuals whose efforts continue to support economic growth, tourism and community development throughout the Minerva area.