Jackson chamber hands out awards

In her 77 years, Patsy Johnson's volunteer spirit has cast her in many roles.

The Jackson resident has been a painter, P.E. teacher, basketball coach, band director, hunter safety instructor, costume seamstress for school plays, scout sponsor, quilter and tour guide. All of this in addition to her trade as history and science teacher, from which she has retired. So when the Jackson Chamber of Commerce invited her to just come and eat at its annual installation banquet Monday night, she was put in an role she was not used to, that of spectator.

It didn't last long.

When Don Sievers announced that she was the recipient of the R.A. Fulenwider Meritorious Community Service Award, she was thrust into the spotlight.

"Usually I have to come dressed as Ben Franklin or Sacagawea," a stunned Johnson told the crowd. "Tonight I was just supposed to come and eat."

The award, named after the late prominent Jackson civic and community leader, is given annually to someone who has made significant contributions to the life of Jackson.

Johnson's recent work for Jackson includes her work with the Jackson Senior Girl Scouts, sewing costumes for and participating in November's Lewis and Clark celebration, membership in a Sunday school class and a quilting group, and presenting programs on electric trains to eight local cities and two libraries each year.

Johnson was among three parties honored at the banquet. Along with Johnson, Maevers Management and Nordenia USA received plaques in recognition of their service to the community.

Maevers Management was named Business of the Year. Owned by Lester, Jim and Tim Maevers, the management company has initiated a number of projects that have revitalized Jackson's business scene. Maevers built the building that now houses the Branding Iron restaurant and has revamped the old IGA building into Main Street Lanes, a bowling alley and family entertainment center. The company also was responsible for revitalizing the Boulevard Plaza and recruiting Quiznos Subs and Movie Gallery to occupy those shops.

Industry of the Year honors went to Nordenia USA. The German-based packaging manufacturer has long been one of the area's biggest employers. Last year, Nordenia got even bigger, hiring 100 new workers -- an increase of almost 33 percent -- as part of the expansion of its plant at the intersection of Route J and Highway 177.

trehagen@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 137