ProKleen Industries, east of Augusta off Old 54 Highway, received the Augusta Chamber of Commerce 2009 Business Award during the group’s annual meeting Saturday evening.
ProKleen President Kevin Turpin accepted the award from Chamber Executive Director Sharon Sudduth. ProKleen was a featured sponsor of the dinner meeting at the Red Rooster Reception Hall on SW 70th Street.
2009 Chamber President Kent Bush passed the office to Dr. Mike Todd, this year’s president.
Bush used a fitness club analogy to encourage chamber members to be more involved in the organization. He suggested the best goals will not be reached if you only pay dues and do not become involved in chamber activities.
Dr. Todd said 2009 was a challenging year for small businesses in Augusta. He said during a recent chamber retreat, directors were challenged to do things they haven’t done before and suggested that will likely be the case for small business again this year.
Gina Jacoby was saluted as the Ambassador of the Year.
Two departing chamber board members were recognized - Becky Wolfe of Leadership Butler and Jeremiah Zweifel of the Augusta WalMart.
Kerry Buskirk of rural Augusta, national sales manager for Mary Kay Cosmetics, was they keynote speaker.
She entertained with humorous stories about “power hosiery,” “a bubble dress,” and her local experiences
She told her audience “to treat people right” and “help others reach their goals.”
Other major sponsors of the annual meeting were LakePoint Nursing Center, Madrigal & Welch, and Emprise Bank.
Augusta, Kan. —
