By Sue Kiesewetter
Enquirer contributor

HAMILTON - Five individuals or organizations were honored Thursday for contributing to the rebirth of this community.

The Hamilton Vision Commission's public relations committee chose the honorees because they uphold the commission's philosophy of the Vision 2020 Plan, adopted two years ago, said Nancy Wiley, vice chairman of the commission and PR committee chair.

"These people were already doing things in the community that were in line with our mission. They are doing things that are good for Hamilton,'' Ms. Wiley said.

Those honored for their work in the arts, education and economic development:

Hamilton Schools Superintendent Janet Baker, a lifelong Hamilton resident who began her career as a teacher in the district in 1970 and has worked as an elementary and secondary school principal, director of elementary education, assistant superintendent and superintendent since 1990.

The City of Sculpture Inc., a community organization that has worked to install sculptures throughout the city including one commissioned through its Artist-in-Residence program. The group also began IceFest earlier this year.

The late Sherry Lee Corbett, a preservationist who restored 19 homes in the Dayton Lane Historic District and worked to save the Mercantile Buildings downtown. Ms. Corbett was slain this year.

Hamilton Community Foundation, which has funded several projects including the restoration of the American Legion building in Veterans Park and the Lentil sculpture in the new park at High Street and Riverfront Plaza.

Frank Pfirman, president of Matanday Steel and Metal Products, a firm that paved the way for brownfield redevelopment when it constructed a new facility on the former Leshner site on Central Avenue.

"I feel very honored to be recognized.

"I think things are coming together with our increased test scores and building plan,'' Mrs. Baker said.

"Strong schools make strong communities."