Dr. Naam Named Citizen of the Year

For a man who is so proud to be a citizen of the United States, how special it was Saturday night as Dr. Nash Naam was named Effingham's Citizen of the Year for 2018.

The announcement of the award, presented annually by the Effingham Daily News, came at the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce's Business Recognition Gala. The Gala marked the conclusion of the Chamber's 100th anniversary celebration.

Dr. Naam, a noted speaker, writer and photographer as well as world-renowned hand surgeon, was a popular choice. Many of his family members were on hand for the announcement, which featured a video message from Dr. Naam's son in Seattle who was unable to be present. Dr. Naam was at the banquet in part because he had been told his good friend Bob Schultz was going to receive the honor. Bob and all of his family were on hand to see their good friend receive the award.

Dr. Naam has spoken frequently about how he and his wife, Dr. Elene Awad, came to the United States from their native Egypt and found a home in the Effingham community.

(NEWS REPORT PUBLISHER STEVE RAYMOND WITH BETTY HINTERSCHER)

The 2018 Volunteer of the Year award winner is Betty Hinterscher of Dieterich, honored for her many hours of service to Catholic Charities. She was also commended by those who nominated her for her great baking skills. The volunteer award is presented annually by the Effingham and Teutopolis News Report.

(JOHN BOOS AND COMPANY PRESIDENT JOE EMMERICH)

The evening also saw John Boos and Company and Patton Printing and Graphics honored as this year's Excellence in Business Award recipients. Remarks were also shared by 2017 Chamber Board President Mel Stock and 2018 Chamber Board President Matt Cekander.

(2018 CHAMBER BOARD PRESIDENT MATT CEKANDER WITH DAN AND MADONNA PATTON OF PATTON PRINTING AND GRAPHICS)

Tod Lancaster served as Master of Ceremonies for the evening.