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Pacesetters honored at annual event
By Lynn A. Wade
Nevada Daily Mail
In a room charged with energy and fun of a night out in honor of the accomplishments of local business leaders, the Nevada/Vernon County Area Chamber of Commerce honored several of its own during an awards banquet and casino night held Saturday at the Eagles Lodge, Nevada.
The highlight of the evening was the annual Pacesetter Awards. The awards feature a small, golden figure and are affectionately referred to as "The Norman Awards," in honor of the late Franklin Norman, who made lifelong contributions to the betterment of the community through his service and persistence in many community efforts.
The buzz and bells of the fund-raising casino gaming quieted as the crowd paused to honor the award recipients.
Opening and presiding over the awards ceremony were Tera Elliot and Jim Tedlock. Elliot said, "Tonight's awards salute special businesses and organizations who are genuine and dynamic in their fields, and who are all working together to make Nevada and Vernon County better for us all. So enjoy the awards -- "Lights Camera, Nevada -- You are the Stars.
"This year, nominations were solicited from the entire 350 chamber membership at large -- the list was narrowed down to the top three finalists in each category, always a difficult task, as so many have contributed to the growth and well being of our community."
With that, the ceremony began. First up was the Agri-Business Pacesetter Award, which went to Prairie Pride, Inc.
Winner of the Small Business Pacesetter Award was Cash's Quality Electric.
The Large Business Pacesetter was Insite Support Services.
The President's Award, given to a volunteer for going "above and beyond" was presented to Dr. Jason Meisenheimer, for his active work in several organizations, particularly promoting the interests of youth in Vernon County.
The 2006 Rookie of the Year Award, given in honor of outstanding performance and service by a new business went to Daylight Donuts.
Outstanding educators, who receive a plaque and a scholarship to students in their schools given in their name were Ada Sikes, Bronaugh R-7; Amanda Skelton, Northeast Vernon County R-1; Mary Love Guthrie, Nevada R-5; Sandy Satterlee, Sheldon R-8; and Karlene Lent, Calvary Christian School, Nevada.
This year's Community Pride Award went to the Vernon County Youth Fair.
The Individual Pacesetter was Russ Warren, KNEM/KNMO news.
This year's Wayne Neal Award went to Greg Hoffman.