(Le Mars) — The Le Mars Chamber of Commerce honored Father Kevin Richter as the 2012 “Citizen of the Year”. Father Ritcher was selected for his work overseeing the construction project of the new St. Joseph Catholic Church, as well as overseeing the unification of the Spalding Catholic High School with the Gehlen Catholic High School.
Outgoing chamber president, Sandy Norby read the nomination for the “Citizen of the Year”.
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Richter admitted to being surprised by the honor, and said it was the people that made the transition from the old church to the new building possible.
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Richter also spoke about the unification of Spalding Catholic High School and Gehlen Catholic School.
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Earlier in the evening, a video skit portraying chamber officials attending a local book club after reading the popular, but controversial, book “50 shades of Grey” featured the “church lady” character from Saturday Night Live. At the conclusion of his acceptance speech, Richter was able to inject his humor about the skit.
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The “Business of the Year” was awarded to Icon Ag and Turf, a local John Deere dealership. Accepting the honor was General Manager and Senior Partner, Adam Timmerman. Icon Ag and Turf recently expanded to a new facility. ICON Ag and Turf has been involved with many community projects including a fund raiser for local 4-H and FFA, as well as cancer awareness.
Incoming Chamber President, Brad Pick read the nomination for the Chamber’s “Business of the Year” honors.
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General Manager and Senior Partner Adam Timmerman accepted the honor on behalf of ICON Ag and Turf.
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The former NFL player, now farm equipment dealer, believes the enthusiasm displayed in, and around the Le Mars community, will mean better economic development.
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During the annual banquet, the Le Mars Chamber officially recognized the Chamber “Employees of the Month” and the “Boss of the Quarter”.