04/27/2026
The North Central Area Transit Board of Directors proudly hosted the 10th Annual Employee Appreciation & Awards Dinner, celebrating a decade of excellence and dedication. The evening highlighted the remarkable safety record of our team, with twenty-two drivers receiving Safety Awards for remaining accident-free. Specific recognition for mastery in defensive driving was awarded to Matthew Kelbley (Seneca), Robert Martin (Crawford), Tom Riker (Fostoria), and Gregg Theis (Seneca), whose expert skills prevented potentially catastrophic collisions. Additionally, Crawford County Driver Brenda Smith was honored for her life-saving intuition and compassion after identifying and responding to a passenger's medical emergency.
The night also celebrated individual character and office culture:
• Organizational Awards: Twenty-three employees were recognized across the "Going the Extra Mile," "Most Committed," and "Vivacious" categories.
• Friend of Transit: Stephanie Baumunk, a longtime passenger known for her constant smile and signature generosity (and her frequent deliveries of Ballreich’s chips!), received this year’s award.
• Partnership Award: Jim Fruth of Gordon & Fruth Law Office was honored for his exceptional legal guidance and unwavering commitment to NCAT’s compliance and success across our three-county service area.
• Peer-Nominated Honors: The Don Hammer Award for deep faith and friendship was presented to Cindy Lafountaine (Shelton Shuttle), while the Steve Behm Award for humor and spirit was presented to Alan McDivitt (Fostoria) by Steve’s wife, Kathy, and daughter, Kelly.
Employee of the Year: Hailee Somers was named Employee of the Year for her unwavering dedication and flexibility. Whether managing complex schedule changes or transitioning into her new role as Administrative Assistant, Hailee approaches every challenge with a positive attitude that keeps NCAT moving forward.
** NCAT extends a sincere thank you to event sponsor BSI Sales & Service for their continued support.