Wooster Area Chamber announces 2022 award winners

The Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce announced its 2022 award winners, all of whom will be honored when the chamber holds its annual dinner meeting. With the increase of COVID-19 cases in Wayne County, the chamber postponed its annual dinner meeting, which originally was set for Jan. 27. A new date has not yet been announced.

The nine businesses and individuals have made a significant impact on the Wooster area and are recognized for their dedication to the community.

Barry Romich is recognized as this year’s Community Wall of Fame award recipient for a lifetime of achievement in the Wooster area. This award recognizes his philanthropic efforts based upon time, energy and monetary contributions aiding both the business and social environments of the community. Romich is recognized for his work as co-founder, chairman and CEO of Prentke Romich Company; his involvement with the Romich Foundation; and the effort he has put forth for the schools and many nonprofit organizations in Wayne County.

The Business of the Year award is presented annually to a business for its longevity in the community, positive impact on the local economy, contributions to the community’s well-being, concern for the well-being of its employees and support of the chamber. The Commercial & Savings Bank has been named Business of the Year for its ability to provide convenient access to products and services that promote financial health for customers while offering a network of relationships among customers, employees and shareholders that contribute to the well-being and satisfaction of the community and its residents. Eddie Steiner, president and CEO, will accept the award on behalf of CSB.

Matthew Long, member at Critchfield, Critchfield and Johnston, is being recognized with the Jack O’Donnell Award for Community Service for his longtime dedication to the Wooster community. This award is presented annually to an individual in memory of Jack O’Donnell, former chamber president. A sixth-generation Wooster native, Long is heavily involved in the civic life of the community, currently serving on six different boards.

The Mike Lezak Award is presented annually to an individual in memory of Mike Lezak, former chamber president. As this year’s recipient, Dave Dietrich, director of admissions at the Ohio State University CFAES Wooster campus, is recognized as an individual who has made significant contributions as a chamber volunteer by actively participating on committees and in activities.

Stifel-Adams Reichert Wealth Management Group is recognized as this year’s Board of Directors award recipient for its significant contributions to the chamber throughout the years. Stifel is recognized as a major contributor to the chamber through its support and sponsorship of annual chamber events and programs. Kyle Adams, CRPC managing director/investments, will accept the award on behalf of Stifel.

Each year the WorthyWorks Award is presented in partnership with the Wayne County Community Foundation to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit member of the chamber for its long-lasting commitment to the quality of life in the community and active contributions to the betterment of the community. The chamber recognized Forget-Me-Not Baskets for its dedication to providing items of comfort, peace and remembrance to families who have experienced a loss during pregnancy, birth or soon after. Sara Ringle, company founder, will accept the award on behalf of Forget-Me-Not Baskets.

Chief Matt Fisher, Wooster Police Department, is being recognized with the Leadership Wooster Distinguished Alumni Award for his continual professional advancement in the Wooster Police Department. This award is presented annually to a graduate of the Leadership Wooster program who exemplifies the essence of leadership. Selection criteria include leadership roles the nominee has held, organizations participated in and significant contributions that have been made to enhance the quality of life in the Wooster area.

The chamber’s Business of the Year — 15 employees or less — is Walnut Street Gallery. Since 2002 the gallery of American-made handcrafts has showcased a selection of wooden bowls and utensils, pottery, jewelry, soaps, glass, metal art, textiles, original art and prints, Wooster memorabilia and more. Loren Fedorowicz, owner, will accept the award.

The chamber’s Business of the Year — more than 15 employees — is The City Square Steakhouse. Once known as the “skyscraper” of its day, the historic Germania Hall building, built in 1878, in downtown Wooster has been home to The City Square Steakhouse for over 10 years. Under award-winning chef Mike Mariola and his wife, Emily, who opened The City Square Steakhouse in 2008, the restaurant pairs small-town charm with sophistication and has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Steakhouses in America. Mike Mariola will accept the award.