It’s always nice to see individuals and organizations be presented with honors for efforts to improve the community that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Two recent stories from Geauga County fall into this category and deserve some extra attention.
First, Leadership Geauga recently announced that Ann Blair, a graduate of the Signature Adult Program Class of 2013, has been named the 2026 Emerald Leader, according to a News-Herald staff report.
Blair will be honored at the 2026 Emerald Ball for her longstanding commitment to service, leadership and community enhancement throughout Geauga County, a news release stated.
The Emerald Leader recognition is awarded to individuals or organizations whose leadership has significantly enhanced the quality of life in the county. Recipients exemplify service beyond job requirements and demonstrate meaningful contributions through volunteerism, community involvement, innovation and the fostering of positive community relationships, the news release stated.
Blair is the local broker/owner of RE/MAX Rising, with her office based in Burton. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is widely recognized for her volunteer work and involvement in community organizations and events.
Her service history includes a long-standing commitment to The Great Geauga County Fair, Metzenbaum Center, Special Olympics, Chardon Rotary, Burton Chamber of Commerce, Maple Leaf Community Residences, Destination Geauga and the Geauga Growth Partnership. She is also a member of the Geauga Historical Society and donated the tethered balloon rides during Balloon Fest this past fall.
Blair has played a hands-on role in numerous local fundraising activities and community traditions, including the Burton Holiday Christmas Parade, holiday decorating initiatives, Santa’s Mailbox, Easter Egg Hunts, Maple Splash, the 5K Ugly Sweater Run, and the Rotary Harvest Auction.
Blair’s leadership extends well beyond the local level. She is actively involved with the Lake and Geauga Area Association of Realtors and will serve as its president in 2026.
Additionally, she is a representative with the National Association of Women Business Owners of Northeast Ohio and was a longtime member of the former Red Key Network.
The public is invited to honor Blair by attending Leadership Geauga’s annual Emerald Ball March 7.
Next, Mayfield Church in Chester Township recently announced several recognitions that highlight the congregation’s commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability and care for God’s creation, according to a News-Herald staff report.
The National Wildlife Federation has granted Mayfield Church a Sacred Grounds Wildlife Habitat Certification, a news release stated. This program recognizes congregations and faith communities that intentionally create wildlife habitat while actively linking faith practices with caring for the environment.
Through conscientious planning, landscaping and sustainable gardening, Mayfield Church now provides essential resources for wildlife — including food, water, shelter and places to raise young — across its 32-acre campus, the release stated.
Mayfield Church has also been recognized as a certified Monarch Waystation through Monarch Watch. This designation acknowledges the church’s efforts to create vital habitat for monarch butterflies and other pollinators by planting milkweed for caterpillars and nectar-rich flowers for adult butterflies.
Monarchs are the only butterflies to complete a two-way migration each year, with multiple generations traveling between Mexico and North America. This journey is increasingly threatened by habitat loss, pesticide use and deforestation.
By cultivating Monarch Waystation gardens, Mayfield Church is helping protect monarchs and other pollinators for generations to come.
In addition to on-site conservation efforts, Mayfield Church is a sponsor of “Apollo the Bald Eagle” through the Adopt an Animal Program at the Lake Metroparks Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center in Kirtland.
Apollo is a non-releasable bald eagle ambassador with a permanent wing injury who now helps educate the public about wildlife conservation. Support through this program helps fund Apollo’s ongoing care, while allowing visitors of all ages to learn about native wildlife and environmental responsibility, the release stated.
Since the church was built in 2004, the Garden Ministry has planted more than 100 trees throughout the campus. These trees were placed around the pond, driveway, parking areas and Adopt-A-Garden spaces to enhance the beauty of the grounds while providing significant environmental benefits, including cleaner air, reduced soil erosion, improved water management, wildlife habitat and climate resilience.
In conclusion, The News-Herald congratulates Anne Blair and Mayfield Church for winning various awards, working on worthwhile projects and securing other noteworthy designations. Both of you are truly great members of your respective communities and deserve to shine in the media spotlight.