This is a continuation of last week's column relating to the recent Chamber of Commerce 2006 Awards Banquet. Those in attendance were actively participating in the Casino and the silent auction. There was a pause in those activities when it came time to present the awards.

Last week's column included comments about the Individual Pacesetter Award, the Wayne Neal Impact Award and the Agri-business Award. With these and the other awards given, it was great to observe the spotlight being placed on those receiving special recognition -- the stars. It is unique when a community recognizes special people. Those recognized are worthy of receiving their awards and to realize that they are recognized for their accomplishments and the example they are demonstrating to others.

To be recognized among the finalists is also a great honor. They are also being noticed by the community and by the chamber members. Sometimes we fail to recognize people in our midst for what they are achieving, taking them for granted.

Perry Cash is one of those individuals. Several years ago, people were talking about how great he was doing in his business. Cash's Quality Electric is known for ethical, generous and longstanding commitment to our community.

Blake Hertzberg, representing the family of the Hertzberg Furniture Co., 2005 Small Business Pacesetters, presented the award to Perry. Blake said, "For dedication to the principles of good basic business, hard work does pay off, loyalty to your hometown does give back its rewards." The other two Small Business Pacesetter finalists have also made great progress, Missouri Welding Institute and Cavener's Library and Office Supply. The welding institute was recognized for outstanding records for their students, plus a great national reputation.

An indication of how fast time flies is that Cavener's have been in their business for 10 years. During this time they have provided great services and new products. During 2006 they re-design their store.

We have a type of industry located in our community that only came in existence in recent years. The early part of my life we did not have electricity. Still, we have moved to the age of high tech -- almost unbelievable. We are fortunate that Michael Hunter, CEO, decided to locate Insite Support Services, Inc., in Nevada. As a result they have created more than 100 new jobs since placing new operations here. The new company is providing new customer service projects, bringing the world of tech service and call centers to Nevada.

Insite Support Services received the 2006 Large Business Pacesetter Award. It was presented to Michael by Dr. Judy Rogers, president of Cottey College, last year's Large Business Pacesetter. She said, "We appreciate the commitment Michael Hunter and Insite Support Services have made to Nevada and your most recent announcement to grow with us. We're proud of your willingness to achieve even greater accomplishments through the advancement of customer service technology."

The other two finalists for Large Business Pacesetter Award have accomplished much within the community and have set a good pace. They were Nevada Regional Medical Center, Judy Feuquay, CEO, recognized for quality of expanded outpatient services, their community support and wellness programs; and Heartland Behavioral Health Services, Mike Ham, CEO, for the efforts of the Jason Foundation, for teen suicide prevention, local events sponsored and quality of care for young people.

One person has been observed to be active in the community in a variety of ways. Recently he was a recipient of a prestigious award by the Rotary Club. He currently is serving as treasurer of the Citizens Committee for Law Enforcement. Dr. Jason Meisenheimer is all about kids and Nevada.

The President's Award is selected by the president and is for going beyond commitment by an individual to the efforts of the chamber and our community. The recognition was presented by Kelly Ast, president, giving recognition to Jason.

In presenting the award, Kelly said, "Jason's commitment to the chamber and several organizations is rare and greatly appreciated. The Elks, Rotary projects, our chamber choices program, the Griffons all are better because of his involvement." Jason is certainly helping to make this community a better place and is worthy of this special award.

The board came up with a new award this year, the Rookie of the Year Award. This new recognition is a great idea and recognizes those new members in 2006 who received many votes in the balloting process.

Daylight Donuts was named as the winner for 2006 Rookie of the Year Award -- for long hours, dedication to and from your family members and a whole lot of blood, sweat and tears. Starting your own business is more than just opening the door. The owners Christy and Jessica Sloniker expressed thanks to their husbands for their support.

The other 2006 Rookie of the Year finalists were 54 Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Eric and Stacy Anderson, owners; KODA Music Center, Justin Copeland, owner; and 9 Patch Quilts and Fabrics, Erica Skouby, owner.