Sandusky County chamber honors 2026 award winners

FREMONT — The Sandusky County Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual awards dinner on May 28 at The Neeley Center within Terra State Community College's campus. This event honored "the businesses, organizations and individuals who are making a difference in Sandusky County every day," according to a chamber statement. Nominees were submitted by the public and evaluated by a panel of chamber professionals from across the country based on criteria, such as growth, innovation, leadership and community impact. "This event is one of our most important nights of the year," said Tyler Kneeskern, chamber president and CEO. "It's our chance to spotlight the people and businesses who go above and beyond to make Sandusky County a great place to live and work." 2026 chamber award winners Here's a list of this year's winners with a description of each recipient, in order of how they were presented on social media, as provided by the chamber: • Citizen of the Year Award — Christina Keller Christina Keller serves as a family advocate with Great Lakes Community Action Partnership, an independent provider, and co-owner of Backstage Lounge at The Strand Theater where she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and families across our community. With over 15 years at (the partnership) and more than a decade as a state-certified provider, her work is rooted in both professional experience and personal resilience. Deeply committed to giving back, Christina serves as secretary of the Fremont Exchange Club and has supported countless local initiatives through volunteerism, mentorship and community partnerships. She also spent nine years coaching Special Olympics softball, earning recognition as a 2025 Ohio Coach of the Year, and continues to be a strong advocate for others through both her work and personal journey. • Award of Excellence — Tamara Haubert Mettler Tamara Mettler serves as purchasing manager for Beck Suppliers/FriendShip Kitchen where she has played a key role in the company's continued growth and expansion, helping support the opening of 16 new store locations. Through her leadership, strategic planning and commitment to strong relationships, she continues to make an impact both professionally and throughout the community. Tamara is deeply involved across Sandusky County, serving as a board member for the Sandusky County chamber, a past president and current board member of Soroptimist, a Rotary member and a mentor through Sandusky County Positive People. Her passion for empowering women, supporting local initiatives and giving back has helped raise thousands of dollars for scholarships and community causes throughout the region. • Large Business of the Year Award — Damschroder Roofing Celebrating 50 years in business, Damschroder Roofing has built a reputation as a trusted leader in commercial and industrial roofing. Known for its commitment to quality, strong team culture and community involvement, the company continues to make a lasting impact across Sandusky County and beyond. • People's Choice Award — El Dorado Taco A family-owned business serving authentic Mexican cuisine in Fremont since 2012, known as the city's first Mexican food truck. With deep roots in the community, they've built a loyal following through local events, cultural celebrations and a commitment to bringing traditional flavors to Sandusky County. • Nonprofit of the Year Award — Soroptimist of Fremont A global volunteer organization with a local impact, Soroptimist of Fremont has been empowering women and girls in the community since 1941. Through scholarships, education programs and service initiatives, they continue to make a lasting difference by supporting opportunity, leadership and growth across Sandusky County. • Medium Business of the Year Award — Fremont Speedway Celebrating 75 years in 2026, Fremont Speedway is a nationally recognized racing destination known as the track that action built. Under the leadership of Rich and Shelly Farmer, the speedway continues to drive tourism, support charitable initiatives and create lasting impact both in Sandusky County and across the racing community. • Small Business of the Year Award — Luna Studios Led by master photographer Lori Mooney Fox, Luna Studios has served Sandusky County for nearly four decades, capturing the stories and milestones of generations of local families. Through a commitment to connection, community involvement and preserving meaningful moments, the studio continues to make a lasting impact both through its work and its deep roots in downtown Fremont. • Clark Legacy Award — Holly Stacy Holly Stacy has dedicated her career to public service, agriculture and strengthening communities across Sandusky County. From serving as president/CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Sandusky County to Seneca County commissioner and now county executive director for the USDA Farm Service Agency, her leadership has made a lasting impact throughout the region. A longtime supporter of the chamber, Holly has been actively involved with the agricultural committee for decades, helping organize the annual Ag Breakfast and continuing traditions that celebrate and promote local agriculture. Beyond the chamber, she remains deeply involved through organizations, including the Old Fort Lions Club, agricultural leadership groups, community service initiatives and advocacy efforts that continue to support and strengthen the community she proudly calls home. • Distinguished Service Award — Joe Liszak Joe Liszak has long been committed to supporting the health and well-being of individuals and families across Sandusky County through both his professional leadership and community involvement. In addition to serving as CEO of Community Health Services, Joe chairs the Men Against Cancer Committee, a group that has raised more than $140,000 over the past three years for the United Way Cancer Care Fund. Under Joe's leadership, the Men Against Cancer Committee has brought together local business leaders, organizations and volunteers in support of families facing cancer-related challenges. The committee's annual fundraiser has become a powerful example of community collaboration with countless hours volunteered each year to organize the event, secure sponsorships and raise critical funds for local cancer care support. "Please help us congratulate this year's award winners and nominees," the chamber noted. "Their leadership, innovation, service and commitment help make our community stronger. Thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, board members and attendees for helping make the evening a success."