[simage=6969,400,y,center]
Approximately 175 people attended the 52nd Annual Knoxville Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet Saturday evening.

KNIA/KRLS General Manager Jim Butler was the host for the evening, and the Chamber Board recognized members of the community with Impact Awards to people making a difference.

The Keynote Address by Aaron Thomas, son of Aplington-Parkersburg’s teacher and football coach Ed Thomas, received a standing ovation from the audience. Ed Thomas was murdered in 2009, and Aaron shared his thoughts on why his father was successful, and the principles that guided him.

The Impact Awards presentation honored Fairlane Bowl as Business of the Year, Ray Bertrand was honored as Business Person of the Year, Ryan Richardson as Educator of the Year, and Dan Dennison as Farmer of the Year. The Community Service Award was presented to Janet Ritchie. The Humanitarian Award was given to Jim and Angie Uitermarkt and the KHS Girls Basketball Team. Connie Husted and Pennie Sommar received the Matthew C. Job “Pride in Knoxville” Award.

[simage=6970,400,y,center]