NEWS RELEASE:

On April 11, the Crawford Partnership hosted its annual State of the Vision dinner at The Pickwick Place. With more than 200 community members and leaders in attendance, the Partnership Board of Directors and staff shared key highlights from the prior year in addition to vision and plans for future initiatives.

Crawford Partnership board president Jason McMullen welcomed guests and gave a brief overview of recent efforts, including the recent announcement of the State Capital Bill signed by Governor Kasich, which allocates $500,000 to the Partnership’s plans for the REC at Crawford Commons, an all-year sports and entertainment complex in Crawford County.

McMullen also shared an update on Community Opportunity, a website designed to connect local businesses with local talent. Launched just three months ago, Community Opportunity has more than 100 business profiles, with approximately 1,000 area students registered to stay connected with our community and local career paths after graduation.

“These updates merely scratch the surface of what’s going on at the Partnership and in our community, but it’s important that we begin to share these stories,” said McMullen. “Tonight, we’re here to recognize those who are helping us enhance the livelihood of Crawford County for families and businesses in our community through strategic economic and community development.”

An award ceremony followed, with the following winners nominated and selected by the Crawford Partnership Board of Directors:

o Economic Development Award Winner: Bucyrus Railcar Repair, presented to president Thomas Cathcart

o Community Development Award Winner: Kevin Kimmel, superintendent, Bucyrus City School District

o Innovation Award Winner: “The Leader in Me” Lighthouse Schools: Wynford School District, Galion City Schools, and Bucyrus City Schools

o Collaboration Award Winner: Crawford Works, presented to director Robin Hildebrand

o CU Lead Alumni Impact Award Winner: Bethany Foy, Ohio Mutual Insurance Group, for her contributions to implement Community Opportunity

The evening concluded with a performance by author and comedian Michael Jr., whose inspirational comedy is “more than funny.” Michael Jr. created waves of laughter in the room, but also shared a deeper message of purpose and “delivering your punchline” to make a difference in our community.