Chamber of Commerce gala and awards banquet

Tuesday, March 7, 2017
Butch Renwick, second from left, was recognized as Chamber member of the year at the Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce annual gala and awards banquet Saturday evening. Pictured are, from left: Wes Knell, Butch Renwick, Shéree Gayman, and Megan Mason. Gabe Franklin/Daily Mail

The Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce annual gala and awards banquet attracted a near capacity crowd Saturday evening at Elks Lodge No. 564.

"Now, the reason we are all here is to recognize the businesses and community members who strive to make Vernon County the place we all love to work and call home," Chamber of Commerce board member Ross Lawrence said following dinner. "While there can only be one winner every year, we should all feel extremely grateful for all the nominees and their massive contributions towards building a brighter tomorrow for Vernon County."

Lawrence continued with the first of several awards.

"The first award is the Worksite Wellness Award and it is presented in partnership with Healthy Nevada," Lawrence said. "This award highlights employers that demonstrate a commitment to employee health by implementing worksite wellness offerings. It also acknowledges efforts of the employers to facilitate and encourage a healthy work environment."

Nominees for the 2017 Worksite Wellness Award were Cottey College, Fidelity Communications, Heartland Behavioral Health Services, Missouri University Extension, Osage Prairie YMCA, and Rinehart Jewelry.

"And the winner is -- Osage Prairie YMCA," Lawrence said. "In Nevada, the Y strives to be the leading voice on health and well-being. With a mission centered on balance, the Y brings families closer together, encourages good health and fosters connections through fitness, sports, fun and shared interest. As a result, many of our youth, adults and families are receiving the support, guidance and resources needed to achieve greater health and well-being for their spirit, mind and body. The Y works directly with 10 of the largest employers in Vernon County to provide opportunities for their employees to have access to healthy living programs. Congratulations to the Osage Prairie YMCA!"

The next accolade to be bestowed was the Large Business Pacesetter award.

"These nominees have created jobs, improved infrastructure, or have just simply made a positive impact on the Nevada/Vernon County area," Lawrence said.

Nominees for the 2017 Large Business Pacesetter of the Year Award were Cottey College, Heartland Behavioral Health Services, Max Motors, WF Norman Sheet Metal, Wal-Mart, and Woods Supermarket.

"And the winner is -- Cottey College," Lawrence said. "Cottey College has been a long-time partner in the Nevada community. It has recently established four-year degree programs, it contributes millions in expanding payroll dollars, and is very active in giving back to our local community. Congratulations to the Large Business Pacesetter of the Year: Cottey College!"

Next came the Small Business Pacesetter award.

"These nominees have proven themselves to be a strong and sustaining entity in our community," Lawrence said.

Nominees for the 2017 Small Business Pacesetter of the Year award were ABK Hearing, Academy of Cosmetology and Esthetics, Belles and Beaus, Buzz's BBQ, Davison's Shoes, Debbi's Herb Shop, DeLaney Vineyard & Winery, KNEM/KNMO Radio, Kitchen Essentials, and Studio 119.

"And the winner is -- Buzz's BBQ," Lawrence said. "Buzz's BBQ has been family owned and operated since 1999 and continues to upgrade and serve the community. They support and donate to many organizations in a variety of ways and it is a great cozy hometown restaurant that it is truly an asset to our community. Congratulations to the Small Business Pacesetter of the Year -- Buzz's BBQ!"

The evening's next award went to the the 2017 Agri-Business Pacesetter.

"These nominees have made significant contributions to our agricultural economy and benefit the Nevada/Vernon County Area," Lawrence said.

Nominees for the 2017 Agri-business award were Ash Grove Aggregates, FCS Financial, John Deere, and R & R Equipment.

"And the winner is -- R & R Equipment," Lawrence said. "R & R Equipment is located on 54 Highway east of [Nevada]. They are very proud to be an independent retailer of Ariens Company products and carry a full line of parts and accessories and since coming to Nevada they have rapidly expanded their equipment line to meet the specific needs of those in our community. Congratulations to the Agri-Business Pacesetter of the Year -- R & R Equipment!"

The next award was presented to the 2017 Community Involvement Pacesetter.

"Formerly the Wayne Neal Award, this award is meant to recognize individuals, businesses or organizations that showed commitment to improving their community through involvement, action and giving back," Lawrence said. "These nominees truly go above and beyond for our community!"

Nominees for the 2017 Community Involvement Pacesetter award were Barbara Long, Buildet L.L.C., Chad Bailey, Dr. Phillip Witt, Dr. Scott & Debbie Compton, Eye Care Professionals, Jennifer Gundy, Kelly Ast, KNEM/KNMO Radio, Linda Barnes, Neal Gerster, Vernon County Ambulance District, and Phil Couch.

"And the winner is -- Kelly Ast," Lawrence said. "I cannot even begin to list everything she is involved in -- but she truly is invested in our community and wants the best for Vernon County. From cultivating the Vernon County Farmer's Market to where it is at today, leading and supporting the transportation improvement project, the Tobacco-free Coalition, the Clean-Indoor Act initiative, and creating collaboration opportunities for Diabetes education and awareness. Kelly is focused on the growth, health, agriculture, economy, and educational system of Nevada! She truly loves this community and has a humble and determined heart to see this community continue to thrive. Congratulations to the Community Involvement Pacesetter of the Year -- Kelly Ast!"

"Let's give all of our nominees another round of applause! Congratulations to all our winners tonight. We are proud of the work you continue to do in our community!" Lawrence said.

Lawrence presented two more awards to conclude the ceremony.

"First, is the Chamber Member of Year award," Lawrence said. "This is a new award we are starting to recognize a Chamber member that goes above and beyond not only for the community but by supporting the Chamber itself. Congratulations to our inaugural Chamber member of the year, Butch Renwick and Renwick Insurance!"

Following the applause, Lawrence continued, "[Renwick Insurance] has been in business in Nevada since 1926 and has been a Chamber member since 1977. Just in the last year he has sent the chamber five new members. And we have come to find out he has actually been sending the Chamber new members for over 25 years by letting them know that if they are a Chamber member they receive a discount. We are extremely thankful for his continued support of Nevada and our Chamber of Commerce. Congratulations to Butch Renwick and Renwick Insurance!"

Lawrence continued, "As is tradition, we want to take a moment to recognize the Chamber of Commerce leadership. A huge thank you to all of the board members and executive members who volunteer their time and resources to drive the Chamber forward in its efforts to make our community a better place for future generation."

Lawrence then asked the Chamber board of directors to stand and be recognized.

"And finally, I would like you to join with me in a salute to a special leader, the 2016 Chamber Board President -- someone we're all fond of and proud of, and who has been a driving force in the Chamber and our community. While he was not able to make it tonight; I know you will all agree, we owe a huge round of applause to our outgoing Chamber President Frank Arnold!"

Following the awards, gala guests enjoyed a variety of music from the dueling pianos of Spanky Entertainment.

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