Hundreds of community members came together Sunday to recognize both the success of the community and specific businesses and individuals.
The most Valuable Patron Award was presented to Rainbow World Preschool & Child Development Center. It was noted that Rainbow World "works tirelessly to ensure the safety, education, and well-being of children ages 6 weeks to 12 years old."
The Business of the Year was presented to Discount Furniture. Randy and Sarah Surber have kept the family business a vital part of the community business and "Discount Furniture is an integral part of our community and our individual lives."
Monica Jensen, the 2020 Educator of the Year, presented the 2021 award to Diane Gentrup, who serves the community's four- and five-year olds through New BEE-ginnings Preschool.
The final award of the night was presented by Sandy Brown, last year's Citizen of the Year.
She highlighted a number of this year's recipient's contributions to the community, both on the "fun" side and the serious side of volunteering throughout the community.
Jill Brodersen, the 2021 Citizen of the Year, was recognized for helping establish such events as Cruise Night and Bressler Fest and also for her leadership role in disaster recovery after the tornado of 2013.
Brodersen is currently the longest serving member of the Wayne City Council and has served as interim mayor in 2018.
During the evening attendees were able to bid on a wide variety of Silent Auction items and spirited bidding took place during the Dessert Auction.
