The Clinton County Community Champions (C4) Awards began in 2020 to honor service and leadership during the pandemic. The event began as a virtual ceremony and has since expanded to be held at the Murphy Theatre. This year, there were 119 nominations for 75 individuals in 7 categories. The winners are chosen based on their commitment to community through a special project or ongoing activities, unselfish leadership and service to others, and an inspiration to others. They are selected by a panel of judges from the Board of the Chamber of Commerce and the Board of the Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Dennis Ruddle
Nominated for: Citizen
Nominated by: Jo Anne H. Lindsey
Dennis’s nominator(s) stated:
“Dennis Ruddle spends every day as a volunteer with the food pantry at the Church of God on Nelson Ave. He drives a large truck to the Free Food store in Cincinnati weekly and unloads the food at the food pantry. Dennis then helps to deliver food to needly families all over our county. Dennis is an all around handyman/mechanic. He volunteers to repair the lawn mowers, trucks, heating systems etc. He mows the grass at the church as well as many other jobs as a volunteer. He works very hard on a daily basis to help meet the needs of hundreds of families in our community. He drives the church bus to help those without transportation. Dennis is an inspiration to others as he gives his time daily to help others in our community.”
Judy Bracht, Clinton County Quilt Guild
Nominated for: Citizen, Non-Profit
Nominated by: Anonymous
Judy’s nominator(s) stated:
“Judy has lead the Clinton County Quilt Guild in charitable donations for many years and volunteers her service to our community. The Quilt Guild shows their beautiful work each year at the Corn Festival, but behind the scenes each year they donate their time, talents, and supplies to the community members. As the leader of charitable donations, Judy has played a pivotal role in organizing and distributing hundreds of quilts and handmade items that guild members make to individuals and families in need. This list includes fire victims, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, EMS, WIC, and Quilts of Valor for Clinton County veterans. Our local Clinton County Quilt Guild does much more than most community members realize in provided items of warmth and love through a hand made item. The whole group of ladies who aide in this outreach exhibit a genuine kindness and empathy to all and are more than deserving of this recognition.”
Kenna Edwards, Clinton County Resource Center
Nominated for: Citizen, Non-Profit, Govt./Public Service
Nominated by: Andrew Conarroe
Kenna’s nominator(s) stated:
“As a volunteer with the Resource Center, Kenna Edwards brings the perfect blend of
kindness, patience, and a firm voice of reason to benefit the youth she works with. Her diverse life experience offers a deeper understanding and unique perspectives that can impact youth in many ways. Kenna primarily works with the Center’s academic enrichment program, Making the Mark, [going] above and beyond to teach the kids something they can use forever while addressing current academic deficiencies…She is knowledgeable, dedicated and undaunted, understanding a lot of the struggles our kids face…Kenna acknowledges the challenges that come with this work, however she is encouraged by watching youth grow…Summing up the rewards Kenna derives from her volunteer experience at the Resource Center, she states, ‘I think it's challenging and very rewarding to watch kids grow and get them interested in the future and not look back about what has happened to them.’”
Marty Beaugard
Nominated for: Citizen, Business, Education, Govt./Public Service
Nominated by: Tim Dettwiller & WCSD District Administration
Marty’s nominator(s) stated:
“Marty Beaugard epitomizes the spirit of service, leadership, and dedication…A 20-year Air Force veteran, Marty's commitment to serving others began early in life and continues to define his journey. …He has owned and operated Beaugard's Memphis-style BBQ for 22 years. His restaurant is more than a local favorite-it's a hub of community connection and support. Marty's participation in the Council on Aging's Comfort Meal Program demonstrates his dedication to ensuring the well-being of others, particularly our senior citizens, providing not just food but a sense of care and comfort. …For the past 11 years, he has been a member of the Wilmington City Schools Board of Education, where his leadership and advocacy have helped shape a positive educational environment for students and staff. He is deeply involved in youth development, serving as a board member for youth football and as the former director of the KTC youth basketball program…He leads quietly and effectively, often working behind the scenes to ensure success. Whether mentoring young athletes, guiding educational policy, or volunteering to make sure others are fed, Marty's actions reflect his unwavering commitment to the betterment of Clinton County.”
Sybil Allen
Nominated for: Citizen
Nominated by: Jane Newkirk, Clinton County Community Action
Sybil’s nominator(s) stated:
“Sybil volunteers hundreds of hours each year supporting the Aging Up Center by maintaining the grounds around the facility and assisting seniors who are unable to maintain the flowerbeds around their home, as well as the entrance of the property which makes the seniors proud of their homes. She was instrumental in developing and maintaining the gardens at the facility which is utilized by seniors that attend the center as well as seniors who reside in the senior apartments located directly behind the Aging Up Center. In addition she volunteers to open the facility for after hours activities, assists with set up and clean up for events and washes dishes for the congregate meal lunches. Her willingness to be responsible for these necessary tasks relieves a burden on Clinton County Community Action staff to find ways to cover the extra hours and funding that would be needed that would be required to fulfill these needs. Sybil’s efforts around the Aging Up Center are valuable to the entire community in so many ways. Maintaining the exterior appearance of the facilities enhances the inviting atmosphere and has caused seniors to say how proud they are to have a facility like this to attend. She is tireless in her time and commitment in giving back to the community.”