Chamber banquet shares memories, honors members

Members and guests of the Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce gathered at the Sidney Holiday Inn last Thursday to celebrate a year past filled with memories and to honor members for their contributions and accomplishments to the organization.

The banquet room was filled as the Holiday Inn staff served a catered meal for the event.

The invocation was offered by Pastor Doug Birky. The master of ceremonies was Hunter Arterburn.

United States Congressman Adrian Smith offered remarks on his beliefs of local economic autonomy as well as the many battles being fought of the floor of congress.

A year in review powerpoint presentation highlighted activities from the 2012 year presented by Keep Sidney Beautiful Director Cheryl Jones. It showed pictures of the many activities and successes of the business based organization.

The honorees as Citizens of the Year were announced as Gene and Margaret Leinemann. Their annoucement came along with a listing of the many events they particiapte in as part of the Chamber.

Others honored included: New Business of the year – Wolf Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center; Supporter of the Year - Kevin Fortin; EK Yanney (one who has made additional efforts to support Cheyenne County) Don Adams; Community Leader - Gary Person; Board Member of the Year - Andrew Hurt; Retailer of the Year-Moose & the Goose Gallery; Business Partner of the Year - Larry Fraas; and, Edna Anderson-Becky Rezac.

The Friend of Tourism award went to Bud Rankin and Keep Sidney Beautiful honored Mable Nelson.

Outgoing president Tim Lyndahl made remarks and handed the gavel to incoming president Wanda Brogren. She offered an award Heroes Among Us to members of all volunteer fire departments in Cheyenne County for their sacrafice and efforts protecting properly and lives.

Also speaking at the event was Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Glenna Phelps – Aurich.

Comedian Gordy Pratt enteratined the crowd with his comedy routine.