these are my family and ….

these are my family and friends. We need to be there in good times and in tough times. No one wants to see difficulties and sometimes the job is hard, but there is also good. You can see life come into the world. It is very rewarding.”

The surprise of receiving the annual Citizen of the Year honor was not the only surprise Esselman received that evening. Since his family had been told beforehand about the award, they prepared by getting everyone together for a surprise appearance after he was selected.

Members of the family came from as close as Loyal and from as far away as Minnesota to see him and support him, which was both a shock and a blessing for Esselman. “That is hard to describe,” he said, reflecting on his family’s appearance at the banquet. “We are a close-knit family, we were always there for each other, and they came from all over, they came to support me. It was awesome and very heartening.”

The Loyal Chamber of Commerce also selected the Loyal Veterinary Services S.C. as the Business of the Year. The business has had a presence in Loyal for more than 40 years and has helped give health services to thousands of pets and livestock.

In addition to the annual awards, the Loyal Chamber of Commerce also recognized the milestones of several businesses in Loyal. RZ Builders was honored for 20 years in the community, Zvolena Masonry LLC was honored for 27 years of service in the community and Tieman Realty was honored for being a presence in Loyal for the past 37 years.

Dave Esselman stands among the many family members who came out to support and congratulate him on receiving the Citizen of the Year Award at the Loyal Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet. Their arrival came as a surprise for Esselman, who was unaware they were at the banquet until after he was chosen for the award.

Loyal Veterinary Services S.C was selected by the Loyal Chamber of Commerce as the Business of the Year. Members of the staff at the business are (front from left) Morgan Chaffin, Liz Rueth, Wendy Lindner, (back) Dr. Greg Jackson, Dr. Elroy Roedel, Dr. Bethany Loos, Dr. Darla Peyerk and Melissa Froeba. Dr. Sarah Fadden is not pictured.