By Kris Leonhardt

Editor

MARSHFIELD — During the 71st annual meeting of the Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MACCI) held Jan. 25 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, the chamber announced its 2017 award recipients.

Firm of the Year: Nasonville Dairy

Of the six nominations for Firm of the Year, Nasonville Dairy was chosen for its economic impact, community service, and community enhancement and enrichment.

Nasonville Dairy is family owned and has operated in the same location since 1885.

The business has grown from being fully family-operated to having a staff of over 100 and serves as an umbrella for six other businesses.

“Nasonville Dairy — if I could steal something from Disney — is, ‘We can make all of your dreams come true,’” said Kim Heiman. “Being a family business, it’s kind of like the rides at Disney. Some days it’s the mild ones. Some days it’s Splash Mountain. … But when the ride is over, you are all in it together, and as the train just gets longer and the family gets bigger, and the business gets bigger, more people get in the car, and you just go on the ride again the next day.

“Thank you so much to the Marshfield community because without your support we couldn’t do what we do. Our parents always taught us, ‘What you give back, you return twofold plus,’ and we certainly have. What we’ve given back to the Marshfield community, we’ve received much more in return.”

Small Business of the Year: Nutz Deep II

Nutz Deep II was chosen from five nominations to receive the Small Business of the Year award.

Dewey and Lisa Schutz started the business in 1982 with a staff of three people that has now grown to 45 full- and part-time employees.

The family-owned business was chosen for its economic impact in the community, expansion, longevity, innovation, and community involvement.

“This is such a great honor, and we are so very humbled,” said Lisa Schutz. “It’s quite overwhelming to be among so many great people and different organizations. I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. We really appreciate this. We are very humbled.”

Individuals recognized: Nick Arnoldy and Shannon Nienast

The Leadership Marshfield Alumnus of the Year is recognized for his or her leadership qualities, community involvement, and commitment to the community’s challenges.

Nick Arnoldy addresses the room after receiving the 2017 Leadership Marshfield Alumnus of the Year honor.

Receiving the honor was 2007 Leadership Marshfield graduate Nick Arnoldy, who is part of family-owned Marshfield Insurance. Arnoldy was noted for his service and contributions to the Marshfield community.

Receiving MACCI’s 2017 Service Award was Shannon Nienast, Wisconsin Homes, who was credited for making a positive impact on the community through volunteerism and service.

“It’s quite an honor,” said Nienast. “Thank you for thinking of me. I just do really enjoy being involved in the community, so thank you very much.”