Chamber honors members at annual event

The Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce held its Year End Celebration Sunday, Oct. 15 at The Jackson Grille. The event offered an hour of networking before dinner, entertainment by Mike Bliss and an award presentation.

“This event is special in recognizing those people in our community who worked hard all year,” said Chamber Coordinator Rachel Andrews. “Thank you all for attending and congratulations to our winners.”

“All of our nominees have put such great effort into their roles,” said Emcee Kyle Whittaker, of the MU Extension Center. “We celebrate them this evening. Thank you to all nominees, their families and friends for joining us this evening.”

The Pledge of Allegiance and singing of the National Anthem was performed by Chris Robinson before an Invocation was led by Nicholas Inman. The Lifetime Achievement in Business Award was awarded to Marshfield’s Wayne Galbraith and was introduced by his son-in-law, Sam Rost.

The new Board of Directors for the Chamber was announced with Rob Jones as President, Chris Robinson as Vice President, Paul Sheppard as Treasurer, Jessica Rezak as Immediate Past President and Directors Paul Sheppard, Chris Robinson, Michael Freeman, Kevin Cantrell, Kyle Whittaker, Preston Hyde, Ben Alvarez, Nicholas Inman, Linda Dickinson and Sam Rost.

“Every year the Chamber recognizes individuals and businesses in the community who give their time and service to improve the business economy of Marshfield. Nominations for each award are presented to the board and a selection committee composed of our board selects the names for each of five categories,” Whittaker explained. “The nominees are then presented to the current Chamber Partners for voting to select the recipient of each award. The nominees were all equally deserving because of the effort they have put forth to make Marshfield a highlight for tourists and a safe, thriving community in which to live.”

First, Ruby Dudley, President of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation announced that it awarded $27,000 in grants to several local non-profits last month and presented the first Pinnacle Award – a joint award from the Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce and the Marshfield Area Community Foundation.

The nominees were the Webster County Health Unit, Blair Gann and Sam Rost. Blair Gann received the award.

The Achievement in Education was awarded by Preston Hyde to Shelly Jones, who has led the JAG program since its conception in 2022.Under her guidance, the program has thrived and Marshfield won first place in the state competition and an impressive second place win at the national level.

“These achievements are a testament to Shelly’s ability to inspire and lead our students to greatness,” Whittaker added. “She doesn’t just teach; she leads, empowering students to reach their full potential.”

Other nominees included Greg Holtschneider and Nicki Thompson.

Business of the year was awarded to Las Cazuelas. The Mexican Restaurant not only excels in food and customer service, they have been active in the community.

“If there has been a need for the business community, they have been there to step up to the plate and if someone needs something on a personal level, they don’t make a show of things – they just do it,” Whittaker said. “They are the friendly neighbors that Marshfield is known for and a welcome business to the community that is a great example to us all.”

Natalie Crawford and Anna Macias were nominated in a close running for Business Person of the Year, which was awarded to Macias of Las Cazuelas.

Anna Macias, an alumna of Marshfield High School, once dazzled the school’s sidelines as a spirited cheerleader. Upon graduation, she attended OTC where she diligently earned her CNA license. Her calling for caregiving was evident from her early days at Webco Manor, and later the reputed Cox South Hospital. Her dream was to become a nurse and extend a healing touch. Anna’s heart has always gravitated toward diverse passions and commitments. Her zest for life is multifaceted. From her love of photography, to always being a phone call away for those that need her, her compassionate nature is evident.

A natural people pleaser, she’s assertive, occasionally sprinkling her interactions with sass, and possesses an undying drive to achieve whatever she sets her heart on.

At her core, Anna values family above all, constantly radiating love and commitment. Anna’s personal life bloomed when she married Sergio after years of courtship, sharing dreams that often converged. One shared aspiration was to establish a Mexican restaurant, an idea that came to fruition when Anna’s father decided to retire and sell his automotive shop. The space transformed into Las Cazuelas, a culinary hub cherished by many.

The joy of her life amplifies with her two beautiful daughters, Sophia and Elena, and the canine companionship of Tommy and Bruno. Anna Macias has epitomized dedication, love and an unwavering spirit in every chapter of her life, making her an inspiration to all who are privileged to know her.

Finally, Marshfieldian of the Year was awarded. Nominees included John Black, who has served Webster County in many capacities, including serving as State Representative twice in District 137 and currently District 129, Jill Phillips, who is an internal part of the Cherry Blossom Festival and a key component behind the camera at many events, fundraisers, senior sessions and weddings, and Michelle Kimrey, who goes above and beyond in supporting the Marshfield and Webster County Community. The winner was Jerry Nehl, who selflessly led the Food Pantry and works tirelessly for the well-being of our community.

“His steadfast commitment to service exemplifies the very spirit of our values,” Whittaker said. “In the quiet corners of our town, Jerry has worked tirelessly to support those in need. His efforts, often behind the scenes, have made a profound impact in the lives of many.”