The Wadena Area Chamber of Commerce honored community leadership during its annual banquet Monday night at the Wadena VFW.
Mike Bullinger, majority owner of Homecrest Outdoor Living, accepted the Community Service Award for his efforts to keep Homecrest in Wadena. Dean Uselman, the city's economic development director, and Shirley Uselman, executive director of the Chamber, presented him with the award.
"We're here to stay and we're not going anywhere," Bullinger said as he thanked local leaders for their support of Homecrest.
Homecrest could not have remained in Wadena without the help of the whole community, he said.
The Person of the Year award went to a very surprised Arleen Paulson. However, the award came as no surprise to those who know of Paulson's role as a local businesswoman, active church member and community leader.
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"I really enjoy working with the community," Paulson said.
Ron Greiman said Paulson gets the job done.
"Whenever we need help she's there for us," he said.
The Couple of the Year was awarded to Gordy and Gwen Macklem.
Shirley Uselman presented the award to the couple she said is always willing to help at Chamber events. She acknowledged Gordy as a cheerful and helpful businessman and Gwen as a very active church member who also volunteers at Tri-County Hospital and holds a regular style show at the Village Emporium. The Macklems were also instrumental in organizing the Air Base Reunion this fall.
Wayne Johnson of American Family Insurance was acknowledged as the Director of the Year and Outgoing Director.
The new board president is Erik Osberg of Edward Jones Investments in Wadena. Molly Costin is an incoming board member.
