The Chamber of Commerce awarded this year’s Citizen of the Year to Jaime Peterson and Business of the Year to One Window Photography owned by Katie Lewis.
The Eudora community gathered Saturday night for the Chamber’s annual dinner, where the winners were announced.
Peterson is involved in several local organizations, including The Bird’s Nest, which provides clothing for those in need. Peterson works as an emergency room registered nurse at Olathe Medical Center.
Laura Smith, a volunteer with Eudora’s Giving Garden and Little Free Libraries, announced this year’s winners. Smith called Peterson a “health care hero.”
Peterson said she recognizes the work done by everyone to improve life in Eudora and that COVID-19 added challenges to this mission.
“As a single mom, as an ER nurse, I’ve had some really crappy days,” Peterson said.
The Business of the Year award went to One Window Photography owned by Katie Lewis.
“[Lewis] rocks the title of hard-working, single mom,” Smith said.
Lewis said she did not expect to win the award and added her appreciation for being recognized.
Chamber President Courtney Gebauer said Peterson and Lewis were extremely deserving of these awards. The board of directors votes on winners based on a pool of nominees.
“They’re just both amazing individuals,” Gebauer said.
Following the awards, Vice Mayor Ruth Hughs gave a state of the city address, highlighting areas of growth in Eudora, which includes the business community. In the past year, several businesses have planted roots in Eudora, including a new Casey’s, Wendy’s and Eudorable Home.
“It’s an exciting place to be, and I’m grateful to be a part of that,” Hughs said.
The high school’s culinary arts program catered Saturday’s dinner. Z&M Twisted Vines Winery provided drinks, and floral arrangements were contributed by Eudora’s Giving Garden.
Gebauer said about 70 people were at the dinner, a higher number than she expected. She said the board is excited to have an annual dinner to celebrate local individuals and businesses.
“It’s a really good night to celebrate business and community, and those key people who are really involved in the community,” Gebauer said. “Everyone was so excited to be here.”
Reach reporter Abby Shepherd at [email protected]
