CRESTLINE, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Community pride, patriotism, and celebration filled the room May 6 as the Crawford County Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2nd Annual Meeting & Awards Night at The Hub. Centered around the “America 250” theme, the evening recognized the businesses, organizations, and individuals helping make a difference throughout Crawford County.
Throughout the night, chamber leadership reflected on the momentum and growth happening across the county while also highlighting several new initiatives launched over the past year. Becky Lutz spoke about programs including the Holiday Passport Program, Women in Business events, ribbon cuttings, promotional videos, and member engagement efforts designed to strengthen connections throughout the local business community.
The chamber also announced that Jessica Karcher has officially accepted the role of assistant director, recognizing her leadership and dedication to the organization and community.
2026 Crawford County Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet
One of the evening’s most heartfelt moments came during the presentation of the Citizen of the Year Award to Jim Gerstenslager. During the award presentation, organizers highlighted his decades of volunteerism and community involvement, including his work supporting the Galion Depot, local Little League programs, the Lincoln Highway Association, and meal delivery efforts through the Crawford County Council on Aging.
Accepting the award, Gerstenslager spoke about returning to Crawford County after spending nearly 50 years in California and his desire to continue giving back to the community he loves.
“I love Crawford County. I love what’s going on here,” Gerstenslager said. “My whole goal now after retirement is just to help where I can help and do things for people, and I’m going to continue to do it.”
The Director’s Award was presented to Avita Home Health & Hospice for the compassion and care the organization provides to patients and families during some of life’s most difficult moments. Presenters praised the team for bringing comfort, dignity, and support to families throughout the community.
Business growth and economic development were also celebrated throughout the evening.
Forge Fire & Co. was named New Business of the Year after being recognized for innovation, growth, and investment in first responder training equipment manufacturing. Chamber representatives highlighted the company’s expansion and commitment to creating local jobs.
During remarks, company leadership thanked the chamber, local schools, businesses, and community partners for supporting their growth in Crawford County.
“When everybody gives, everybody wins,” a company representative said while accepting the award.
Stellar Industries received Business of the Year honors for continued growth, investment in employees, and expansion within the community. Presenters noted the company’s employee-owned structure and commitment to creating opportunities in Crawford County.
The Crawford Partnership was recognized as Organization of the Year for its work supporting business retention, workforce development, and economic growth throughout the county. During the presentation, chamber leadership shared that Crawford County saw 202 new full-time jobs created and more than $16 million in capital investment tied to projects over the past year.
Additional award recipients recognized during the evening included:
- Service Award: Terry Gribble
- Small Business of the Year: Pub House 123
- Professional of the Year: Carrie Cottrell
- Ambassador of the Year: Jon Worthington
- Chamber Chair Award: Galion Kiwanis
- Posthumous Award: Jeanette Fox
Jeanette Fox was honored posthumously for her decades of service through Fox Plumbing & Heating and her dedication to community organizations, charitable causes, and local families. Presenters described her as someone who built lasting relationships through kindness, humility, and service to others.
The evening concluded with congratulations to all nominees and award recipients, along with recognition of the sponsors, volunteers, vendors, and community partners who helped make the annual event possible. Chamber leadership encouraged attendees to continue building connections, supporting one another, and investing in the future of Crawford County.