Waitsburg Commercial Club honors community members

WAITSBURG-The Waitsburg Commercial Club held its annual meeting and awards dinner at Waitsburg Town Hall on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.

The guests enjoyed a Chicken Teriyaki dinner catered by Jennifer French, wine and beer, and desserts. The silent auction also included donuts, cookies, and other delectables.

Commercial Club President Tiffany Baxter gave a presentation outlining the club's work over the last year. She nominated officers for this year, and the attending club members voted to approve the slate. Officers are Baxter as President, Karen Huwe as first Vice President, Paul Mantz-Powers as second Vice President, Joy Smith as Treasurer, and Brittany Crane was elected for a first term as Secretary. Judy Bennett will serve on the board as past president.

After dinner, Karen Huwe presented Waitsburg Middle School student Kaitlyn Paul with the Youth of the Year Award. She recently earned a place on the Waitsburg Amazing Shake team competing in Atlanta, Georgia.

Huwe also presented Deanne Coulston with the Employee of the Year award for her dedicated work keeping her fourth-graders engaged and challenged.

Joy Smith presented the Business of the Year award to Sam Kumar. She said Sam's Corner is a big part of the city's business community, offering residents and visitors a wide selection at the market where customers leave smiling.

Waitsburg City Council Member Jillian Henze presented Abby Grende with the Community Service Award. Henze said Grende repeatedly steps up to help the community, including organizing the Celebration Days Parade, solving an insurance emergency to ensure the ATV ride, and joining the Waitsburg School Board.