Businesses, organizations that leave their mark to be honored by Ashland Area Chamber

The Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its 12th annual Member Awards Banquet on Thursday.

The evening will start with a business expo and be followed by dinner and the awards presentation.

Award categories are Small Business, Industrial Manufacturing, Professional Services, Retail, Health & Medical Services, Non-Profit & Social Services and Hospitality & Recreation Services.

Nominations come from the community at large. If nominees desire to pursue the award, they submit a packet of information supporting their eligibility. Each business is judged on business performance and standing, customer service strategies and practices, community involvement and promotion of Ashland County and surrounding areas,

The chamber received 76 nominations for this year’s Member Awards, with 32 qualifying as finalists.

Here are the finalists.

Small Business

Ashtonne Packaging

Ashtonne Packaging began in July 2007. The company does graphic and structural design, distribution/3pl, vendor managed inventory as well as specialize in all forms of packaging and packaging materials. From standard packaging to retail and point-of-purchase displays, and more, Ashtonne Packaging provides a personal and interactive experience when creating packaging solutions for products. Display, ease of access and product protection are important, which is why the team provides custom packaging services. The company also features custom-designed printed boxes.

AZTEC Topsoil

AZTEC Topsoil is veteran/family owned, community oriented and offers topsoil, blended soils and fill dirt for lawn and landscaping projects. It specialize in freshly screened soil for all lawn and garden projects, residential and commercial. They offer small business partners wholesale rates to help grow the community and local market with jobs for landscapers and outdoor service providers. They support school districts and community events with donations, sponsorships and volunteering.

EVA’s Treats

Established in July 2013, EVA’s Treats is a frozen soft-serve yogurt, custard, sorbet and gelato store with over 55 toppings. It is open year-round with indoor and outdoor seating. They strive to make a positive impression on guests, greeting them upon entering and turning them into regular customers. EVA’s continues to improve its business by using strategies that appeal to the Ashland community. They work with many local schools and businesses in Ashland County.

Flashes Trash & Sanitation

Flashes Trash is a family-owned waste management company based out of Nova. It offers weekly curbside pickup, commercial/residential dumpsters and roll offs. The business was established in 2017 with a little over 300 customers. In six years, it has grown to over 7,000 customers. Flashes Trash strives to hire employees from the communities they service. They have provided many sponsorships to students and schools. They also work closely with the Community Work Service Program by providing dumpsters to Ashland City residents who are struggling to clean up their properties.

Manufacturing/Industrial Business

Ashland Water Group

Ashland Water Group is a manufacturer of utility, sump, sewage, grinder, well pumps, frost proof yard hydrants and accessories. The brands consist of Ashland Pump, ECO-FLO Products, Water Source, Pro Plumber and Sediment Stopper and are sold in retail, plumbing wholesale, engineered municipal and commercial channels. Prior to the introduction of their own brands, they served as a pump OEM since 1986, providing pump products to other pump manufacturers. The Cottage Street facility has roughly 180,000 square feet of production and warehousing space and offers engineering, operations, sales, marketing, quality, and customer service support.

Atlas Bolt & Screw Company

Atlas Bolt & Screw started in 1896 as a division of The Ball Bearing, Car, Wheel, and Manufacturing Company based in Cleveland. In 1958, Atlas changed its business model from general fasteners to fasteners specifically engineered for the rapidly growing metal building industry. Atlas opened its Ashland branch in 1973 in a small garage on Clark Street where they manufactured washers and molded nylon heads on the fasteners made in the Cleveland facility. In 1978 they constructed their new location on Troy Road and moved all operations there. Ashland is now the headquarters for Atlas that also has branches in North Carolina, Texas, and Oregon.

Bendon, Inc.

Since its founding in 2001, Bendon has become an industry leader in licensed coloring and activity books. From coloring books to workbooks, storybooks, toys and games, its thoughtfully designed product line spans a variety of creative play patterns with engaging content and hands-on activity that encourage imagination and fun. For over 20 years, Bendon has been dedicated to delivering what retailers and consumers value most – high quality, affordable products featuring beloved characters, on-time deliveries, quick speed to market.

Charles River Laboratories

Charles River is a contract research organization (CRO) providing products and services to help expedite the discovery, early-stage development and manufacture of novel drugs and therapeutics. In 2021, 87% of FDA approved pharmaceuticals made their way through a Charles River facility. CRL Ashland is a Safety Assessment site focusing on the safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and animal health products as well as chemicals, agrochemicals, and biocides. Its scientific and regulatory staff develop and execute individual preclinical studies or customized programs to ensure that drug efficacy and safety assessments are conducted in the most efficient manner.

Simonson Construction Services

Founded in 1974 by Robert M. Simonson as a residential contractor, Simonson Construction Services has transformed into a full-service Design-Build General Contractor with 90 employees. Its primary focus is commercial construction and site development for healthcare, education, manufacturing, office space and warehouse customers. Simonson Construction Services has promoted the Ashland Community through its dedication to design and build top-notch facilities for clients both public and private. Whether it’s a park to relax or a business to work for, these facilities make residents and businesses want to relocate to Ashland.

Professional Services

American Carpet Cleaning

American Carpet Cleaning specializes in carpet and upholstery steam cleaning, with a three-to-five-hour dry time. Beyond tile, upholstery and rugs it also has cleaned boats and RVs. American Carpet Cleaning services residential, commercial and apartment complexes with longtime customers that they treat like family.

NextHome Next Stepp

NextHome Next Stepp has a commitment to “Humans over Houses” and prioritize needs and dreams, guiding buyers every step of the way. NextHome Next Stepp has impacted the community in numerous ways. They believe Ashland is a great community and want others to live there, too. Their 12’ box truck, Lucy, is available for anyone to use and they promote her to local nonprofits and small businesses as well.

Park National Bank

Park National Bank is a family of community banking teams that delivers breadth and depth of resources to individuals and businesses with a hands-on, personalized approach to service and strong local leadership that invests deeply in the places they live and work. For over 100 years, they have invested in the success of their customers and communities. Their size and strength allow them to deliver flexible, secure banking options and convenience with expansive branch and ATM coverage. At the same time, they retain the local leadership, decision-making, and face-to-face relationships they were built upon.

Schmidt Security Pro

Schmidt Security Pro was founded in 1976 by former police detective W. William Schmidt. The company grew to become a security and fire solutions provider. Over the last 40 years, Schmidt Security Pro expanded its product and service lines to include electronic intrusion alarms, video camera systems, access control systems, fire alarm services, medical alert systems and much more. It services residential and commercial customers. The company mission is to positively impact customers, coworkers and community. Fire protection, theft deterrents and video monitoring provide peace of mind. By providing these services, Schmidt Security Pro is allowing others to grow and develop their business and services to the community.

Transformation Network

Transformation Network was founded in 1999 by Dan Phillip. Its mission is to inspire individuals to fulfill their purpose as God’s masterpiece. They do so by providing transitional housing, life skills classes, transitional work, Bible Study and structured living through the New Steps Program. Transformation Network also provides staffing for businesses. In 2023, it acquired Paid in Full and now operate a thrift store. The primary focus is helping clients find purpose through work and a relationship with Jesus Christ. It has offices in Ashland, Mansfield and Clarksville, Indiana.

Wayne Garage Door Sales & Service

Wayne Garage Door Sales & Service was founded in 1973 by Menno Yoder. In early 2018, the former general manager, Robert Habeger, acquired sole ownership of the company and has continued its growth from the original three employees to its current size of more than 70. With headquarters in Dover, is has a showroom as well as satellite locations in Cambridge and Akron. It has close to 30,000 square feet under roof and operate more than 40 installation, service and sales vehicles.

Retail Business

Ashley’s Candy & Nut Shoppe

Ashley's Candy & Nut Shoppe has been producing fresh chocolates and roasted nuts for nearly 90 years. Its third owner, Ashley, is continuing the legacy of its original recipes while introducing new products and creations. They participate in numerous fundraising events by donating gift certificates and baskets. Ashley’s favorite community impact is being a part of supporting kids at the Ashland County Fair livestock auction. Its involvement in downtown shop hops, progressive lunches and other events promotes the community.

Family Pools & Spas

Family Pools & Spas was founded in 1975 by Ken and Pam Uhler. The family business has spent the last 48 years helping families create backyard memories. Run by the Uhler daughters, Mary manages the Ashland store and Becky manages the Wooster store. Pam, now 84, is still involved with the business, helping Mary in the Ashland store during the summer . Family Pools & Spas offers a full-service department with chemicals, free water testing and spas.

Gerwig’s White Barn

In 1951, what was once a roadside vegetable and farmers market turned into a full line grocery store in the family’s milking barn, known as Gerwig’s White Barn. Now in its third generation of ownership, Gerwig’s provides many options (beef, pork, chicken and numerous grocery items) for customers. In season, they still grow some of their own vegetables and go to many auctions to secure products. They take pride in local farmers, supporting them and the local establishments they sell to.

Health & Medical Services

Hospice of North Central Ohio

Hospice of North Central Ohio has served thousands of families with compassionate end-of-life and Palliative care, bereavement programs and services since 1988. Headquartered at 1021 Dauch Drive in Ashland, Hospice of North Central Ohio serves more than 200 patients daily in Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Morrow, and Richland counties. Additionally, free continuous bereavement services are provided for hundreds of families of hospice patients and to anyone in the community experiencing grief. HNCO also operates the What Goes ‘Round Thrift Shoppe located in Downtown Mansfield.

Kingston of Ashland

Kingston has been a part of the Ashland business community for over 18 years providing rehabilitation and long-term care services. Kingston of Ashland obtained Ashland Manor in 2005 to revitalize medical services offered in this area. In 2008, 14 Vermillion Suites, a pool for aquatic therapy, and a café for resident dining were added. In 2012, 17 private rooms and a spacious therapy gym were added to meet the needs of their continuously growing census. Kingston employs 192 people with an array of skills to meet the needs of their patients. Currently, they are providing rehabilitation or long-term care to over 150 local community members.

Priest Dental

After serving his country in the United States Army, Dr. Kevin Priest moved back to Ashland and established Priest Dental in February 2016 by purchasing the practice from longtime Ashland resident Dr. Michael Spreng. Priest has brought a comprehensive and family-like practice to the forefront. He has brought in several technologies, including 3D X-rays, lasers and advanced digital dentistry that has made dentistry more comfortable and easier for patients. In addition, facial esthetic treatments and dental implant procedures have grown significantly since 2016.

The Inn at Ashland Woods

The Inn at Ashland Woods opened in August 2020 by the Inns Holding Company. In 1986, Beverly Donaldson, a registered nurse, approached her father, Jerry McClain, who was a developer and general contractor, with an idea to create a senior assisted living facility. At that time there were many independent apartments and nursing homes for seniors, but no assisted living. Bev and Jerry opened Ohio’s first freestanding assisted living facility in November 1987. Since that time, this team has operated over 25 facilities, all in Ohio, and is known as the premier assisted living facilities in the Midwest. The Inn at Ashland Woods is Ashland’s first assisted living to offer a dedicated memory care unit.

Non-Profit and Social Services

Ashland County Board of Developmental Disabilities – Dale-Roy

From its early beginning as Happy Days School in 1954, the dedication of Dale-Roy School in 1961, to the establishment of the Ashland County Board of Developmental Disabilities in 1967, the organization has been serving individuals with developmental disabilities and their families for over seven decades. While providing services, support, and funding for programs designed for infants, children, and adults with developmental disabilities, the Ashland County Board of DD has enriched the quality of life for all residents of our community.

Ashland Pregnancy Care Center

Ashland Pregnancy Care Center has operated under different names over the years, but its mission and vision remain the same. The ministry serves as the pregnancy resource center for Ashland County and the surrounding area, by providing free pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasound, options counseling, education and healing, pregnancy and infant loss support, sexual integrity, and referrals to women and men facing pregnancy. Its commitment to clients is providing services that are confidential, professional, and cost-free.

Associated Charities

Founded in 1910 by the Ashland Ministerial Association for the purpose of rendering relief to those in need, Associated Charities’ mission remains the same. It provides short term emergency assistance to qualified residents of Ashland County who seek food and financial support. It strives to work with all social service agencies and churches to avoid duplication of efforts. As a United Way partner agency, Associated Charities receives the largest annual allocation based on the number of people and types of services its provides. The UW funding covers support of families seeking assistance for shelter, utilities, and medical prescriptions. In 2013, the Ashland County Food Bank merged with Associated Charities. The Food Bank is solely supported by local churches, businesses, and private donors.

Catholic Charities of Ashland County

Catholic Charities of Ashland County is part of the larger Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland. As one of the largest comprehensive health and human services organizations in the region, Catholic Charities carries out the healing and helping mission of Jesus in Northeast Ohio. Catholic Charities delivers more than 150 services at 60 locations to over 400,000 individuals each year, providing help and creating hope for people of every race and religion. It also offers a variety of counseling and social services that can help individuals and families cope with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, marital discord, behavioral challenges with children, and more.

Cornerstone Counseling of Ashland

Cornerstone Counseling of Ashland was established in 2007. Debbie Portner was a counselor at Cornerstone Psychological Affiliates owned by Dr. John Shultz. She had the opportunity to purchase Cornerstone’s Ashland location. Since 2007, Cornerstone has transformed and grown. Serving over 200 clients per week, the counselors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience. Cornerstone has more certified trauma informed (EMDR) counselors than any other agency within 100 miles. Helping to counsel and support traumatized individuals so that they can work toward transforming their lives into productive members of society deeply impacts our community as a whole.

Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging

For almost 50 years, the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging has served North Central Ohio with the same goal in mind − to help older adults and individuals with disabilities live safely and independently in their homes for as long as possible. It manages programs that provide in-home help and can connect clients and families to various community-based services including transportation, nutrition programs and safety monitoring. It also offers free workshops to those with diabetes and other chronic conditions as well as educational resources, respite, trainings and support for caregivers and grandparents raising grandchildren.

Hospitality and Recreation Services

Ashland YMCA

Established in 1909 in a building on Main Street, the Ashland YMCA moved into its current location on Miller Street in 1956. The Y offers a variety of programs to members 6 months of age to 90-plus and has been impacting the community for 118 years. Last year, it had over 2,000 individual members, 850 Silver Sneaker members, and about 20,000-plus community members come through the doors for services and community events. The YMCA runs a licensed pre-school, before and after school program and summer day camp. It offers sport activities as well as a swim team and gymnastics team. The Ashland YMCA offers specialized programs for senior citizens to keep them healthy, active, and develop a support system.

Mount Vernon Estate Event Center

The Mount Vernon Estate Events property was purchased by Ben and Brenda Uselton in 2017 and hosted its first wedding the following August. Built as a residence by the Koons family, the 90-acre plot of land has a rich history. Mount Vernon Estate has undergone a multi-million-dollar renovation, restoration and reimagining to create a venue where couples, families and companies can gather, celebrate and create lasting memories. Its doors once again opened in August 2022, showcasing an elaborate, sophisticated, and high-end experience event center for an array of occasions to be held in for the future to come. Mount Vernon Estate Event Center holds up to 250 guests and provides on-site housing.

Pleasant Hill Lake Park

Pleasant Hill Lake, a 783-acre man-made lake, was dedicated on Jan. 28, 1938. It is located near Perrysville. Originally constructed for flood control, the lake has become a recreational haven. The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) carries out flood control and water conservation projects in the Muskingum River Watershed. Pleasant Hill Lake Park offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. Residents and visitors alike enjoy fishing, boating, water skiing, hiking, swimming and camping at the lake. It serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts in central Ohio’s Mohican Country. Whether it’s a family picnic, a nature walk, or a fishing tournament, the park fosters community engagement and connection.

Snap Fitness

Snap Fitness has been in the Ashland market for many years, helping people focus on health and wellness. The franchise location was purchased in 2019 as a struggling location that was two months from closing its doors. Having past success in turning a gym club around, James Lozier could not stand by and allow the Ashland location to close. The gym/club is 24/7 with global membership access. It offers state-of-the-art equipment in a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment.

This article originally appeared on Ashland Times Gazette: Ashland Chamber Member Awards Banquet has full slate of nominees