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Chamber hands out awards


EOCI photo

PONTIAC – Joan Bullard was described as someone who makes dreams come true for others during the annual Pontiac Area Chamber of Commerce banquet Thursday night.

The owner of Joan Bullard Realty was honored with the Business Person of the Year award.

“I have some big shoes to fill this year following Mr. Masching” Bullard said, referring to last year’s winner Mark Masching.

Bullard thanked Amy Duffy for nominating her and her family and co-workers for their support.

“You don’t get here in this business or any business by yourself,” Bullard told the crowd.

The agriculture program at Pontiac Township High School continues to grow thanks to the efforts of leaders Parker Bane and Jesse Faber. Both were honored as the Bill Edwards Agribusiness Persons of the Year.

“Parker and Jesse have dedicated their lives to agriculture,” said Tim Kelly, last year’s winner of the award. “Their dedication and love for the programs they teach show.”

Bane considers the award quite an honor and acknowledged the shock and joy he felt upon first hearing the news. Bane feels a sense of pride knowing the chamber thinks he and Faber are contributing members to the success of agriculture in the county.

“I would like to thank the community for the value and support,” Bane said.

Faber gets excited about agriculture and being a part of a community that matters such as Pontiac.

“What we do is possible because of the people in this room,” Faber said.

Several outstanding students were also recognized at Thursday’s banquet from Pontiac Township High School, Pontiac Junior High, Graymont Grade School, Odell, St. Mary’s, St. Paul’s, Saunemin and Grace Christian School.

Following a social hour, dinner was served to guests before Chamber board members were recognized. Chair of the board Tim Johnson gave the 2019 address to the membership and Joe Diaz was recognized as the outgoing chairman. Outgoing board members include: Nicole Blaetz, Chris Cox, Danielle Coyne, Ty Eshleman, Jody Hughes and Seth McCoy.

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