On a night focused on celebration, the OneMarysville Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet brought together community leaders, business owners and residents to reflect on another remarkable year. This annual event is more than a gathering; it’s a testament to the power of unity and the people who make Marysville a vibrant place to live, work and visit.
The theme for the evening, Come One, Come All, unveiled the merger of Marysville Chamber & Main Street and Marysville Convention & Tourism into OneMarysville. This new chapter emphasizes collaboration and shared purpose, building a stronger and more cohesive community.
The evening’s highlight was the presentation of awards, recognizing individuals and businesses whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our community. Jeff Crist was named this year’s Black Squirrel of the Year. Jeff exemplifies what it means to be a Marysville cheerleader. His work with the Marysville Community Foundation and his tireless advocacy for local projects have made him a beacon of positivity.
Sharon Kessinger who was honored as Volunteer of the Year. Sharon’s impact on Marysville is evident through her leadership and tireless efforts. As the driving force behind the Sparklers, she has led this group of volunteers in maintaining and beautifying the city’s flower beds, ensuring that Marysville shines in every season. Sharon’s involvement with the Koester House Museum and Gardens has been instrumental in preserving this historic landmark, where her passion for Marysville’s heritage inspires countless others.
The evening also celebrated individuals who embody excellence in customer service. Azlyn Sweet of the Garden of Eden received the Outstanding Customer Service Award for her remarkable ability to make every interaction feel special. Azlyn’s kindness, attentiveness and genuine care for customers reflect the heart of Marysville’s hospitality and community spirit.
The Business Design and Beautification Award was presented to Blue River EyeCare for their remarkable improvements to both the interior and exterior of their building. By thoughtfully creating a space tailored to their business needs, they have not only enhanced functionality but also added to the beauty of downtown Marysville.
Another standout moment of the evening was the recognition of Crownover Auto Sales as the Small Business of the Year. This young and energetic team, Andrew and Ethan Crownover, has made a name for themselves by going out of their way to meet their customers’ needs with exceptional service. Their commitment extends beyond the Marysville community, as they frequently interact with visitors who come to town specifically to purchase vehicles.
The Business of the Year award was presented to a local favorite, Wagon Wheel, whose reputation for excellence and hospitality has made it a cornerstone of Marysville. This award acknowledges their vital role in making Marysville a destination for great food and memorable experiences.
In a heartfelt moment, the Legacy Award was given to Dr. Arnold Nagely and Dr. Ray Shultz, founders of Valley Vet Supply. Together, they revolutionized veterinary medicine in Marshall County, setting a standard of excellence that reached far beyond the region. Their dedication to customer service has defined the way businesses interact with their communities, creating an enduring model of care and professionalism. Known for their loyalty to their employees, Dr. Nagely and Dr. Shultz fostered a workplace culture that valued commitment and integrity, leaving a profound and lasting impact on Marysville.
The evening’s message was clear: Marysville thrives because of the people and businesses who continually go to the trouble to make it better. Each award winner has contributed to the community in unique and meaningful ways, and their recognition is well deserved.
The OneMarysville Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet was a celebration of what we can achieve together, reminding us that when we unite as one, the possibilities for our town are limitless.
