Dentist wins top honor at Jackson chamber banquet

Several Jackson businesses and individuals were recognized Friday at the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce and the Jackson Industrial Development Company's annual banquet.

The banquet, at the Bavarian Halle, featured the presentation of yearly awards to standout individuals and businesses of Jackson. More than 400 attended.

The R.A. Fulenwider Meritorious Community Service Award was presented by last year's recipient, Jackson Mayor Barbara Lohr, to Dr. Dwight Johnson.

The annual award is presented to an individual who has made "significant contributions to the life of Jackson," Lohr said.

Johnson opened his dental practice in 1974 in Jackson, she said, and has since been involved in a list of civic, church and community organizations.

"It has just been a treasure the last 40 years," Johnson said after accepting his honor.

Industry of the Year went to Liberty Utilities for its long-standing dedication and the company's investment and expansion in the city of Jackson, said the award's presenter, Greg Nolan.

Kimbeland Country Club was awarded Business of the Year, and Small Business of the Year went to Kelly Waller of American Family Insurance.

Jackson is a "natural fit" for his business, Waller said, and he hopes winning the award "means we're doing something right."

It was announced Friday the Ambassador of the Year Award now would be known as the Pastor Sam Roethemeyer Ambassador of the Year Award. Kevin Schaper of Withers Broadcasting was the recipient.

Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce director Brian Gerau installed the chamber's new board of directors: Connie Werner, president; Charlie Glueck, vice president; and Jeff Martin, secretary/treasurer.

The new Jackson Industrial Development Company board of directors officers also were installed: Steve Green, president; Greg Nolan, vice president; and Lohr, secretary/treasurer.

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