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Monday 8:30am - 5pm Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm Thursday 8:30am - 5pm Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce, 377 W Liberty Street, Wooster, OH (2026)

02/25/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us to hear Melissa Seideman, CEO of Not Another Virtual Assistant, share practical strategies for leveraging email engagement, segmentation, and automation to drive consistent foot traffic and improve sales forecasting and inventory planning. Attendees walked away with actionable insights to turn their email lists into powerful tools for sustainable, real-world growth.

Join us next month on March 19th to learn about Small Business QuickBooks Online with Arrow Accounting Co. Register and find details at woosterchamber.com/educational-series.

02/23/2026

Congratulations to Michael Pallotta on being named the 2026 Wall of Fame recipient!

Michael Pallotta embodies steady leadership, community dedication, and relationship-driven business. His commitment to reinvesting in the community that embraced him and contributed to his personal and professional success has left a lasting impact on Wooster.

Pallotta grew up in Parma Heights, Ohio, graduating from Valley Forge High School before earning a business degree from Kent State University in 1980. His interest in cars started young, with early jobs washing cars and changing plates at dealerships, but his professional path in the automotive industry began after joining Ford Motor Company following graduation. In that role, he worked closely with dealerships throughout Northeast Ohio, gaining valuable insight into the business.

In May 1987, Pallotta left Ford Motor Company to enter the retail dealership industry alongside the Mathews family in Marion, Ohio. Two years later, he relocated to Wooster as General Manager of what is now Pallotta Ford. Over time, he gradually acquired ownership of the dealership, purchasing it in 1998. This milestone reflected years of dedication, trust, and earned leadership.

Under Pallotta’s leadership, the dealership has grown from 35 to more than 60 employees and expanded its offerings to include a collision center, detailing services, and Quick Lane maintenance. Pallotta Ford has earned the President’s Award seven times, an honor given to the top one percent of dealers nationwide.

Pallotta strongly believes in being a good corporate citizen. He emphasizes treating people the way you want to be treated and being present in the day-to-day operations of the business. “I’m here every day,” he shared, noting the difference hands-on leadership makes for both customers and employees.

Read the full article on the Chamber’s Blog at www.woosterchamber.com/chamber-blog/2026/2/20/2026-wall-of-fame-recipient-michael-pallotta

02/23/2026

Congratulations to The Apple Creek Banking Company on being named the 2026 Business of the Year Award recipient!

For 122 years, The Apple Creek Banking Company has served as a trusted financial partner for individuals, families, and businesses across Wayne, Stark, Summit, and surrounding counties. With more than $260 million in assets, six branches, and one loan origination office, the locally owned, independent community bank has grown steadily while remaining deeply rooted in the people and places it serves. Through its focus on relationships, local decision-making, and long-term community investment, The Apple Creek Banking Company has earned recognition as the 2026 Business of the Year.

The bank was established on February 1, 1904, when 50 local investors came together to meet the financial needs of the Apple Creek community. For its first 75 years, operations remained exclusively in Apple Creek before expanding in 1979 with its first Wooster-area branch. Growth continued into the 1980s with the opening of a downtown Wooster location, marking the beginning of a broader regional presence that continues today. More than a century later, many families of the original shareholders remain involved, continuing a tradition of local ownership and stewardship.

President and CEO Leo Miller brings more than 35 years of banking experience to The Apple Creek Banking Company. He joined the bank in 2004 as Chief Lending Officer and became president in 2014. When he arrived, around 85 to 90 percent of the bank's loan portfolio consisted of home and auto loans, leaving much of the commercial lending market to out-of-town institutions. Through intentional growth and long-term vision, the bank’s portfolio now consists of about 85 percent commercial and 15 percent consumer lending. While Miller’s leadership guided the transition, he credits the bank’s continued success to the team across its locations and the culture they have built together, known for providing personable, reliable, and trustworthy service. The bank’s recent success is also attributed to its active and supportive local Board of Directors, who are successful, committed community leaders.

Read the full article on the Chamber’s Blog at www.woosterchamber.com/chamber-blog/2026/2/20/2026-business-of-the-year-the-apple-creek-banking-company

02/23/2026

Congratulations to Corbett Coots on being named the 2026 Jack O’Donnell Award for Community Service recipient!

Corbett Coots exemplifies a lifelong commitment to service rooted in family, hard work, and a deep love for Wooster. Coots began giving back at a young age by working alongside his father, Bret Defibaugh, learning the value of responsibility, humility, and community involvement through hands-on work.

Coots has spent 30 years with Bowman Beverage, a family business built on service and strong community ties. Inspired by his parents’ example, he actively supports local schools, particularly the Wooster City School District, and is passionate about ensuring youth have access to opportunities regardless of financial barriers. He coached St. Mary basketball for 15 years and continues to support youth development on and off the court.

His volunteer efforts include working with organizations such as the YMCA, O’Huddle, Wayne County Humane Society, Wooster Exchange Club, and West View Manor. He also helps lead Bowman Beverage’s annual 5-0 Cookout, a beloved community tradition that brings together local families and first responders. Whether fundraising for athletic facilities, supporting community initiatives, or contributing behind the scenes, Coots prefers to be boots on the ground, serving wherever there is a need.

Read the full article on the Chamber’s Blog at www.woosterchamber.com/chamber-blog/2026/2/20/2026-jack-odonnell-award-recipient-for-community-service-corbett-coots

02/23/2026

Congratulations to Joe Reynolds on being named the 2026 Mike Lezak Award for Volunteer Service recipient!

Joe Reynolds was born in Holmes County and moved to Wooster in the fourth grade, later graduating from Wooster High School. After spending time away, he found his way back to Wooster, drawn by the strong sense of community that continues to define the city.

“Wooster works because people are willing to get involved and contribute,” Reynolds said. “Being part of that shared effort means a lot to me.”

Over the years, Reynold’s involvement has grown naturally, becoming a core part of his connection to the community. His work has spanned marketing, events, hospitality, music, and small business, often behind the scenes. While his roles have varied, the common thread has always been people. Wooster is not just where he works but where his relationships, friendships, and sense of purpose live.

Reynolds values showing up when help is needed and taking on whatever role will help an event or organization succeed. For him, community service is less about recognition and more about being reliable, adaptable, and willing to jump in where he can add value.

Read the full article on the Chamber’s Blog at www.woosterchamber.com/chamber-blog/2026/2/20/2026-mike-lezak-award-for-volunteer-service-joe-reynolds

02/23/2026

Congratulations to Gregg Orthodontics on being named the 2026 Small Business of the Year (More than 15 Employees) Award recipient!

Gregg Orthodontics is a locally owned and operated orthodontic practice offering traditional and clear braces, as well as Invisalign for children and adults. With an emphasis on treating patients like guests, the practice is led by President, CEO, also known as “Chief Experience Officer”, and orthodontist Dr. Ben Gregg, alongside a team of 20 dedicated professionals.

At the core of Gregg Orthodontics is a clear and energetic vision: “A visit to Gregg Orthodontics
will be the most awesome experience of your life.” This guiding principle shapes daily work and decision-making, beginning each morning and echoed during important moments throughout the day, often with the last three words shouted in unison. For Dr. Gregg and his team, serving the Wooster community means being part of something bigger than creating the best smiles. It is about building relationships and creating positive, memorable experiences that impact lives.

Community involvement is central to that mission. Through its in-house Philanthropic Community Team, Gregg Orthodontics partners with local schools to promote oral hygiene by providing care kits and free custom sports mouthguards for youth athletes. The practice also supports community organizations and events including Whit’s End Community Place, Main Street Wooster, the Wayne County Fair 4-H livestock auction, and The Salvation Army. Gregg Orthodontics hosts continuing education events for dental professionals, and proceeds from the “Swag Shop" are donated to rotating local nonprofits.

Read the full article on the Chamber’s Blog at www.woosterchamber.com/chamber-blog/2026/2/20/small-business-of-the-year-award-more-than-15-employees-gregg-orthodontics

02/23/2026

Congratulations to Murr Printing & Graphics on being named the 2026 Small Business of the Year (15 Employees or Fewer) Award recipient!

Murr Printing & Graphics has been a trusted local business for more than 45 years, providing high-quality printing, graphic design, and marketing services to businesses and organizations throughout central Ohio. Established in 1980 by Joe Murr and his brother Bob Murr, the family-owned shop has built a reputation for friendly service, reliable printing, and creative solutions.

Today, the business is co-managed by sisters Joanne Burtt and Wendy Topp, who proudly carry on the legacy their father and uncle began. Supported by a team of 10 employees, Murr Printing & Graphics maintains a close-knit, family atmosphere that extends to both staff and customers.

In addition to its core printing services, the company helps businesses think strategically about how they present themselves, offering marketing support and promotional guidance rooted in consistency, focus, and repetition.

Giving back is also an important part of the company’s mission. Burtt and Topp value the ability to support local organizations and initiatives that serve the citizens of Wooster, and as longtime members of the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce, Murr Printing & Graphics appreciates the Chamber’s role in strengthening the local business community.

Read the full article on the Chamber’s Blog at www.woosterchamber.com/chamber-blog/2026/2/20/2026-small-business-of-the-year-award-15-employees-or-fewer-murr-printing-amp-graphics

02/23/2026

Congratulations to The Killbuck Savings Bank Co. on being named the 2026 Board of Directors Award recipient!

Established in 1900, The Killbuck Savings Bank Co. is a community-focused financial institution offering a full range of personal and business banking, lending, and e-banking services. Headquartered in Killbuck, Ohio, the bank emphasizes local decision-making and reinvestment of deposits into the communities it serves. Recognized as a strong, well-capitalized institution, The Killbuck Savings Bank Co. has earned a 5-Star BauerFinancial rating for 138 consecutive quarters and operates 12 branches across Holmes, Wayne, Knox, and Tuscarawas counties.

President and CEO Rachel Miller leads a team of 158 employees across the bank’s 12 locations. She oversees overall strategy, long-term growth, and expansion efforts, including the opening of the bank’s newest Wooster office in 2025, which coincides with its 125th anniversary. Expanding into Wooster marked an important milestone as the bank’s first official move into a city, further deepening its roots in Wayne County.

Community involvement is a cornerstone of the bank’s culture, and its employees have contributed more than 3,000 volunteer hours across its footprint. Team members serve on local nonprofit boards, including United Way of Wayne and Holmes Counties, the Mental Health & Recovery Board, the Home Builders Association, and actively support the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce through committee involvement and events such as the Home & Garden Show.

Read the full article on the Chamber’s Blog at www.woosterchamber.com/chamber-blog/2026/2/20/2026-board-of-directors-award-the-killbuck-savings-bank-co

02/23/2026

Congratulations to Melanie Garcia on being named the 2026 Leadership Wooster Distinguished Alumni Award recipient!

Melanie Garcia is being recognized for her professional leadership, community involvement, and contributions to improving quality of life in Wayne County.

Garcia serves with the Wayne County Community Foundation (WCCF), where she connects donors, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders to create meaningful local impact. Prior to joining WCCF, she spent 15 years in corporate leadership roles in both Chicago and Wayne County and later served with The Ohio State University’s Business Training and Educational Services Department. Garcia holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Miami University and an MBA from Ashland University.

A graduate of the Chamber’s 2011 Leadership Wooster program, Garcia has remained actively involved as both a participant and a presenter on Nonprofit Day. She has also engaged through Business After Hours events, the Chamber’s Educational Series, and the Annual Dinner. Through her role at WCCF, Garcia is honored to present the Worthy Works Award each year, recognizing nonprofit organizations doing exceptional work in the community.

Read the full article on the Chamber’s Blog at
www.woosterchamber.com/chamber-blog/2026/2/20/2026-leadership-wooster-distinguished-alumni-award-melanie-garcia

02/23/2026

Congratulations to The YMCA of Wayne County on being named the 2026 WorthyWorks Award recipient!

The YMCA of Wayne County has served the community since 1939. Guided by its mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA offers fitness and wellness, aquatics, childcare, youth sports, senior programming, and community outreach.

CEO Nikki Fehrenbach has been with the YMCA for more than 25 years, serving in a variety of roles. Today, she oversees strategic direction, operations, community partnerships, fundraising, and program development. With more than 250 employees, the YMCA is the largest childcare provider in the county, serving approximately 450-500 children daily. The organization also opened the area’s first Therapeutic Child Care center in collaboration with The Village Network.

The YMCA’s mission extends across a lifespan, from birth through the golden years, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Through partnerships with schools, nonprofits, local organizations, and government, the YMCA continues to adapt to evolving community needs.

Read the full article on the Chamber’s Blog at www.woosterchamber.com/chamber-blog/2026/2/20/worthyworks-award-ymca-of-wayne-county

02/19/2026

Join us for lunch at the Wooster Chamber on Thursday, March 19, from 12-1 p.m. for a practical session in our Educational Series: Small Business QuickBooks Online, led by Kara Santmyer of Arrow Accounting Co.

This session will help small business owners navigate QuickBooks Online (QBO) and make the most of its features. You’ll learn how to choose the right subscription, manage invoices, track accounts payable, handle payroll and timekeeping, utilize sales tax functionality, and generate financial reports.

Register at woosterchamber.com/educationalseries.

02/18/2026

Join the Young Professionals for an evening of networking at Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern’s private Prohibition Room on Wednesday, March 18, from 5-7 p.m. Connect with fellow young professionals, enjoy delicious appetizers, and grab a cocktail from the cash bar in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you're looking to unwind after work, expand your network, or build meaningful local connections, this gathering provides the perfect setting to connect with Wooster’s vibrant YP community!

Register today at woosterchamber.com/young-professionals.

Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce

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Monday	8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 5pm
Thursday	8:30am - 5pm
Friday	8:30am - 5pm