April 25, 2023 3:50 a.m.

Saturday night the Sutherlin Area Chamber of Commerce held its 67th annual First Citizens Awards Banquet,

Toby Palm was named the Man of the Year while Theresa Call was chosen as the Woman of the Year.

Wayne Ellsworth was selected as the Inspirational Leader of the Year. Ellsworth is the president of the non-profit group Umpqua Heart. The organization has created the Hastings Village transitional camp.

The Outstanding Educator Award went to Josh Gary, a shop teacher at Sutherlin High School, and to Wendy Fennell, the Sutherlin School District’s executive and transportation assistant.

The Sutherlin Police and Fire departments received the Outstanding Service Award.

The President’s Award was given to Jan Knowlton, owner of the Oakland Flour Mill.

The Business of the Year winners were Great Northern Trailer Works and The News Review.

The event was held at the Stockyard Social Hall in Oakland.

Go to: https://www.visitsutherlin.com/ for more information on the Sutherlin Area Chamber of Commerce.