Lifetime Achievement Award – John Hauth
John Hauth is truly an instrumental member of our community, and his decades of service exemplify the heart of what this Lifetime Achievement Award represents.
Professionally, John began his career with the City of Lancaster on April 27, 1992, as a Water Operator. He later served as Lead Water Operator before being appointed Director of Public Works on September 12, 2013. Over more than three decades, he has played a vital role in shaping Lancaster’s infrastructure and quality of life.
John’s excellence has been recognized statewide, including being named the Wisconsin Rural Water Association’s 2002 Water Operator of the Year for District 5, and helping lead the Lancaster Water Utility to receive Water System of the Year in 2011.
During his tenure as Director of Public Works, John oversaw major community projects such as the Library Expansion, new swimming pool, and downtown road reconstruction. He also consistently supported beloved community traditions, including the Annual Courthouse Lighting, the Harvest Festival Parade, and Frosty Night.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, John has always gone above and beyond. He never hesitated to help the Chamber. In past years on his free time, he renovated the former We Energies building into the new Lancaster Food Pantry, further demonstrating his unwavering commitment to serving others.
John is also a long-time member — and now honorary member — of the Lancaster Volunteer Fire Department. Along with his wife, Sandy, he is a familiar and welcoming presence at countless community events.
This May, John will retire as Director of Public Works, closing a remarkable chapter of public service. His selflessness, leadership, and quiet reliability have left a lasting mark on Lancaster.
Tonight, we are proud to recognize John Hauth with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Lancaster Area Chamber of Commerce.
John Hauth is truly an instrumental member of our community, and his decades of service exemplify the heart of what this Lifetime Achievement Award represents.
Professionally, John began his career with the City of Lancaster on April 27, 1992, as a Water Operator. He later served as Lead Water Operator before being appointed Director of Public Works on September 12, 2013. Over more than three decades, he has played a vital role in shaping Lancaster’s infrastructure and quality of life.
John’s excellence has been recognized statewide, including being named the Wisconsin Rural Water Association’s 2002 Water Operator of the Year for District 5, and helping lead the Lancaster Water Utility to receive Water System of the Year in 2011.
During his tenure as Director of Public Works, John oversaw major community projects such as the Library Expansion, new swimming pool, and downtown road reconstruction. He also consistently supported beloved community traditions, including the Annual Courthouse Lighting, the Harvest Festival Parade, and Frosty Night.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, John has always gone above and beyond. He never hesitated to help the Chamber. In past years on his free time, he renovated the former We Energies building into the new Lancaster Food Pantry, further demonstrating his unwavering commitment to serving others.
John is also a long-time member — and now honorary member — of the Lancaster Volunteer Fire Department. Along with his wife, Sandy, he is a familiar and welcoming presence at countless community events.
This May, John will retire as Director of Public Works, closing a remarkable chapter of public service. His selflessness, leadership, and quiet reliability have left a lasting mark on Lancaster.
Tonight, we are proud to recognize John Hauth with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Lancaster Area Chamber of Commerce.
Business Leader of the Year Award – Daniel Glass
Daniel Glass exemplifies the spirit of service, leadership, and community pride that the Business Leader of the Year Award represents. For many years, he has quietly and consistently dedicated his time, energy, and leadership to strengthening the Lancaster community through both formal service and everyday acts of involvement.
His commitment to civic leadership is evident through his service on the City’s Zoning Board of Appeals, where he contributes thoughtful insight and time to decisions that help shape the future of the community. In addition, Daniel has served as a board member and president of both the Schreiner Memorial Library and the Lancaster Community Fund, helping guide organizations that provide lasting educational, cultural, and financial support to local residents.
Daniel has also demonstrated exceptional dedication to the Lancaster Area Chamber of Commerce. He has served on the Chamber Board of Directors for more than ten years and was elected by his peers to serve as Chamber President twice. Beyond formal leadership roles, he actively supports Chamber initiatives by attending annual banquets, participating in golf outings, serving as a parade judge for the Harvest Festival Parade, and supporting events such as Blues & Brews. He made it a personal priority to attend Chamber ribbon cuttings whenever possible, believing it was important to publicly celebrate business growth and recognize the investments local entrepreneurs make in Lancaster.
Even when he is not serving in an official capacity, Daniel’s presence in the community is constant. He regularly supports local events such as Night Markets and Night on the Square, often attending with his family. He also ensures his employer, Peoples State Bank, remains actively involved in Chamber and citywide initiatives, including the Scarecrow Contest and Frosty Night of Cheer, strengthening partnerships between local businesses and the broader community. Beyond formal volunteerism, Daniel and his family make a conscious effort to support Lancaster’s local businesses in their everyday lives, prioritizing shopping locally and promoting Lancaster businesses across the region.
Daniel’s commitment to Lancaster extends deeply into youth and community organizations. He has volunteered as a coach for Lancaster youth soccer and football programs and currently serves as an assistant coach for a third-grade girls youth basketball team. Most recently, he has taken on the responsibility of serving on the St. Clement Chicken BBQ planning committee, supporting one of Lancaster’s longstanding and well-loved community traditions. He and his family also actively support community fundraisers for Family Promise, the Lions Club, local preschool programs, youth wrestling, and the VFW.
What sets Daniel Glass apart is not just the number of roles he has held, but the consistency with which he shows up for his community. He gives his time generously, often behind the scenes, motivated by a genuine belief in community connection, economic vitality, and shared success. His leadership reflects humility, reliability, and deep pride in Lancaster.
For his long-standing commitment, volunteerism, and meaningful impact on the Lancaster community, Daniel Glass is highly deserving of recognition as Business Leader of the Year.
Daniel Glass exemplifies the spirit of service, leadership, and community pride that the Business Leader of the Year Award represents. For many years, he has quietly and consistently dedicated his time, energy, and leadership to strengthening the Lancaster community through both formal service and everyday acts of involvement.
His commitment to civic leadership is evident through his service on the City’s Zoning Board of Appeals, where he contributes thoughtful insight and time to decisions that help shape the future of the community. In addition, Daniel has served as a board member and president of both the Schreiner Memorial Library and the Lancaster Community Fund, helping guide organizations that provide lasting educational, cultural, and financial support to local residents.
Daniel has also demonstrated exceptional dedication to the Lancaster Area Chamber of Commerce. He has served on the Chamber Board of Directors for more than ten years and was elected by his peers to serve as Chamber President twice. Beyond formal leadership roles, he actively supports Chamber initiatives by attending annual banquets, participating in golf outings, serving as a parade judge for the Harvest Festival Parade, and supporting events such as Blues & Brews. He made it a personal priority to attend Chamber ribbon cuttings whenever possible, believing it was important to publicly celebrate business growth and recognize the investments local entrepreneurs make in Lancaster.
Even when he is not serving in an official capacity, Daniel’s presence in the community is constant. He regularly supports local events such as Night Markets and Night on the Square, often attending with his family. He also ensures his employer, Peoples State Bank, remains actively involved in Chamber and citywide initiatives, including the Scarecrow Contest and Frosty Night of Cheer, strengthening partnerships between local businesses and the broader community. Beyond formal volunteerism, Daniel and his family make a conscious effort to support Lancaster’s local businesses in their everyday lives, prioritizing shopping locally and promoting Lancaster businesses across the region.
Daniel’s commitment to Lancaster extends deeply into youth and community organizations. He has volunteered as a coach for Lancaster youth soccer and football programs and currently serves as an assistant coach for a third-grade girls youth basketball team. Most recently, he has taken on the responsibility of serving on the St. Clement Chicken BBQ planning committee, supporting one of Lancaster’s longstanding and well-loved community traditions. He and his family also actively support community fundraisers for Family Promise, the Lions Club, local preschool programs, youth wrestling, and the VFW.
What sets Daniel Glass apart is not just the number of roles he has held, but the consistency with which he shows up for his community. He gives his time generously, often behind the scenes, motivated by a genuine belief in community connection, economic vitality, and shared success. His leadership reflects humility, reliability, and deep pride in Lancaster.
For his long-standing commitment, volunteerism, and meaningful impact on the Lancaster community, Daniel Glass is highly deserving of recognition as Business Leader of the Year.
Citizen of the Year Award – Justin McLimans
The Lancaster Police Department is proud to nominate and congratulate Justin McLimans as our 2025 Citizen of the Year.
Justin serves with the Lancaster Police Department, but his impact reaches far beyond his badge and regular work hours. He consistently goes above and beyond to serve not only the City of Lancaster, but all of Grant County through countless volunteer efforts, leadership roles, and community programs.
Justin is deeply involved with our schools and youth. He participates monthly in the LHS Hockey Club, playing and mentoring students. He created and leads women’s self-defense classes and senior self-defense programs at LHS, empowering students and community members with skills and confidence. He regularly assists with Lancaster Middle School and Lancaster High School events such as career fairs and fitness days, and works closely with school administrators on ongoing school safety initiatives.
Within law enforcement, Justin serves as the Lancaster Police Department’s Taser Training Officer and leads Defense and Arrest Tactics (DAAT) training. He also helps organize the annual LPD Golf Outing alongside fellow officers and staff. In addition, Justin works with Southwest Technical College (SWTC), helping train and prepare new officers for service, extending his positive influence throughout the region.
Justin also volunteers with Teen Court, a program that gives juveniles the opportunity to take responsibility and learn from their mistakes, working alongside community leaders to guide youth toward better choices.
What makes Justin truly deserving of this honor is that all of these efforts are done outside of his regular work hours. His commitment reflects a genuine passion for service, mentorship, and community well-being. Justin exemplifies what it means to be a public servant and a role model.
Congratulations, Justin McLimans, on being named Citizen of the Year — your dedication and heart for our community do not go unnoticed.
The Lancaster Police Department is proud to nominate and congratulate Justin McLimans as our 2025 Citizen of the Year.
Justin serves with the Lancaster Police Department, but his impact reaches far beyond his badge and regular work hours. He consistently goes above and beyond to serve not only the City of Lancaster, but all of Grant County through countless volunteer efforts, leadership roles, and community programs.
Justin is deeply involved with our schools and youth. He participates monthly in the LHS Hockey Club, playing and mentoring students. He created and leads women’s self-defense classes and senior self-defense programs at LHS, empowering students and community members with skills and confidence. He regularly assists with Lancaster Middle School and Lancaster High School events such as career fairs and fitness days, and works closely with school administrators on ongoing school safety initiatives.
Within law enforcement, Justin serves as the Lancaster Police Department’s Taser Training Officer and leads Defense and Arrest Tactics (DAAT) training. He also helps organize the annual LPD Golf Outing alongside fellow officers and staff. In addition, Justin works with Southwest Technical College (SWTC), helping train and prepare new officers for service, extending his positive influence throughout the region.
Justin also volunteers with Teen Court, a program that gives juveniles the opportunity to take responsibility and learn from their mistakes, working alongside community leaders to guide youth toward better choices.
What makes Justin truly deserving of this honor is that all of these efforts are done outside of his regular work hours. His commitment reflects a genuine passion for service, mentorship, and community well-being. Justin exemplifies what it means to be a public servant and a role model.
Congratulations, Justin McLimans, on being named Citizen of the Year — your dedication and heart for our community do not go unnoticed.
Everyday Hero Award – Sierra Sanger
This year, the Chamber proudly introduces a brand-new award — the Everyday Hero Award — created specifically to recognize an extraordinary individual whose impact extends far beyond a job title. This award honors someone who exemplifies selfless leadership, unwavering dedication, and a deep commitment to both their workplace and their community. There could be no more deserving first recipient than Sierra Sanger.
Sierra was nominated by an overwhelming number of coworkers and community members — all sharing heartfelt stories of her compassion, leadership, and the positive change she has brought to their lives. These nominations inspired the creation of this new award so Sierra could be properly recognized for the remarkable difference she makes every day.
Since stepping into her role as Director of Nursing at Lancaster Health Services, Sierra has transformed the culture and reputation of the facility. Under her leadership, the building is clean, positive, and filled with an atmosphere of teamwork and care. She has built a strong, agency-free staff — a rare achievement in today’s healthcare environment — and created a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their very best work. Residents and families alike describe the facility as a true “place for mom,” where care is personal, compassionate, and heartfelt.
Sierra leads with love and by example. She never asks anyone to do something she wouldn’t do herself. She listens, communicates clearly, sets high standards, and supports her team through both professional and personal challenges. Her coworkers describe her as kind, fair, organized, strong, compassionate, and inspiring — the kind of leader who brings out the best in everyone around her.
Beyond her professional role, Sierra’s dedication to her community runs deep. She has volunteered with Lancaster EMS for nine years and continues to give her time and heart to those in need. After the unimaginable loss of her son, Sierra has remained a source of strength, positivity, and compassion — even offering support and a listening ear to others struggling with mental health. Her resilience and selflessness are nothing short of inspiring.
Sierra Sanger is the embodiment of what it means to be an Everyday Hero — someone who leads with empathy, serves with purpose, and makes a lasting difference simply by being who she is. We are truly blessed to have her in our community, and we are honored to recognize her as the inaugural recipient of the Everyday Hero Award.
This year, the Chamber proudly introduces a brand-new award — the Everyday Hero Award — created specifically to recognize an extraordinary individual whose impact extends far beyond a job title. This award honors someone who exemplifies selfless leadership, unwavering dedication, and a deep commitment to both their workplace and their community. There could be no more deserving first recipient than Sierra Sanger.
Sierra was nominated by an overwhelming number of coworkers and community members — all sharing heartfelt stories of her compassion, leadership, and the positive change she has brought to their lives. These nominations inspired the creation of this new award so Sierra could be properly recognized for the remarkable difference she makes every day.
Since stepping into her role as Director of Nursing at Lancaster Health Services, Sierra has transformed the culture and reputation of the facility. Under her leadership, the building is clean, positive, and filled with an atmosphere of teamwork and care. She has built a strong, agency-free staff — a rare achievement in today’s healthcare environment — and created a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their very best work. Residents and families alike describe the facility as a true “place for mom,” where care is personal, compassionate, and heartfelt.
Sierra leads with love and by example. She never asks anyone to do something she wouldn’t do herself. She listens, communicates clearly, sets high standards, and supports her team through both professional and personal challenges. Her coworkers describe her as kind, fair, organized, strong, compassionate, and inspiring — the kind of leader who brings out the best in everyone around her.
Beyond her professional role, Sierra’s dedication to her community runs deep. She has volunteered with Lancaster EMS for nine years and continues to give her time and heart to those in need. After the unimaginable loss of her son, Sierra has remained a source of strength, positivity, and compassion — even offering support and a listening ear to others struggling with mental health. Her resilience and selflessness are nothing short of inspiring.
Sierra Sanger is the embodiment of what it means to be an Everyday Hero — someone who leads with empathy, serves with purpose, and makes a lasting difference simply by being who she is. We are truly blessed to have her in our community, and we are honored to recognize her as the inaugural recipient of the Everyday Hero Award.
New Business of the Year Award – DreamWeaver Ink Tattoo Studio
DreamWeaver Ink Tattoo Studio has made countless dreams come true—hundreds in just the past year alone. With unmatched talent, original artistry, and exceptional customer service, this studio has quickly become a beloved part of our community.
Owner Alexis McCarville opened DreamWeaver Ink in Lancaster on March 1, 2025, as a one-artist shop built on a simple but powerful vision: to create a welcoming space where every walk of life feels at home. Her dedication, creativity, and commitment to excellence fueled rapid growth, and she soon outgrew her original location. Today, DreamWeaver Ink proudly operates in a beautiful space on the square, now hosting multiple artists—each bringing their own unique style and talent to the studio.
At DreamWeaver Ink, getting a tattoo is more than just ink on skin—it’s an experience. Clients are welcomed into a comfortable, creative, and inviting environment where they feel heard, respected, and supported. From multiple consultations to perfect each design, to the genuine connections formed during every appointment, Alexis and her team ensure each client leaves not only with art they love, but with memories they cherish.
DreamWeaver Ink doesn’t just design tattoos—they weave dreams into reality, one client, one laugh, and one masterpiece at a time. Their success, growth, and impact on our community make them a truly deserving recipient of the New Business of the Year Award.
DreamWeaver Ink Tattoo Studio has made countless dreams come true—hundreds in just the past year alone. With unmatched talent, original artistry, and exceptional customer service, this studio has quickly become a beloved part of our community.
Owner Alexis McCarville opened DreamWeaver Ink in Lancaster on March 1, 2025, as a one-artist shop built on a simple but powerful vision: to create a welcoming space where every walk of life feels at home. Her dedication, creativity, and commitment to excellence fueled rapid growth, and she soon outgrew her original location. Today, DreamWeaver Ink proudly operates in a beautiful space on the square, now hosting multiple artists—each bringing their own unique style and talent to the studio.
At DreamWeaver Ink, getting a tattoo is more than just ink on skin—it’s an experience. Clients are welcomed into a comfortable, creative, and inviting environment where they feel heard, respected, and supported. From multiple consultations to perfect each design, to the genuine connections formed during every appointment, Alexis and her team ensure each client leaves not only with art they love, but with memories they cherish.
DreamWeaver Ink doesn’t just design tattoos—they weave dreams into reality, one client, one laugh, and one masterpiece at a time. Their success, growth, and impact on our community make them a truly deserving recipient of the New Business of the Year Award.
Educator of the Year Award – Julie Wodarz
Julie Wodarz exemplifies what it means to lead with heart, faith, and dedication in education. With more than three decades of teaching experience, Julie has spent the last 14 years shaping young minds as a kindergarten teacher at St. Clement’s Catholic School. Prior to that, she devoted 11 years each to St. Mary’s Catholic School in Platteville and Immaculate Conception Catholic School in Kieler.
Julie places her students first in everything she does, creating a warm, nurturing classroom where children feel supported, valued, and inspired to grow. She takes great joy in watching her kindergarteners develop academically, socially, and spiritually, helping them build a strong foundation of faith and learning that will carry them forward.
Shortly after beginning at St. Clement’s, Julie initiated a partnership with the 5th grade teacher to support the Lancaster Community Scarecrow Contest. This collaboration has become a beloved tradition, allowing students of different ages to work together while creating fun, creative displays that bring joy to the community and showcase the school’s spirit.
Julie also finds great fulfillment in following her students through their school years and celebrating the paths they choose in life. She is especially proud that one of her former students, David Dreficinski of Platteville, has gone on to become a priest in the Madison Diocese—a testament to the lasting impact of her guidance and example.
It is an honor to recognize Julie Wodarz as the Educator of the Year. Her lifelong commitment to education, faith, and community makes her truly deserving of this award.
Julie Wodarz exemplifies what it means to lead with heart, faith, and dedication in education. With more than three decades of teaching experience, Julie has spent the last 14 years shaping young minds as a kindergarten teacher at St. Clement’s Catholic School. Prior to that, she devoted 11 years each to St. Mary’s Catholic School in Platteville and Immaculate Conception Catholic School in Kieler.
Julie places her students first in everything she does, creating a warm, nurturing classroom where children feel supported, valued, and inspired to grow. She takes great joy in watching her kindergarteners develop academically, socially, and spiritually, helping them build a strong foundation of faith and learning that will carry them forward.
Shortly after beginning at St. Clement’s, Julie initiated a partnership with the 5th grade teacher to support the Lancaster Community Scarecrow Contest. This collaboration has become a beloved tradition, allowing students of different ages to work together while creating fun, creative displays that bring joy to the community and showcase the school’s spirit.
Julie also finds great fulfillment in following her students through their school years and celebrating the paths they choose in life. She is especially proud that one of her former students, David Dreficinski of Platteville, has gone on to become a priest in the Madison Diocese—a testament to the lasting impact of her guidance and example.
It is an honor to recognize Julie Wodarz as the Educator of the Year. Her lifelong commitment to education, faith, and community makes her truly deserving of this award.
Outstanding Organization Award – Holiday Auction sponsored by WGLR
The Holiday Auction sponsored by WGLR has proudly served the 97.7 WGLR listening community for over 30 years, making a lasting impact across Grant County and the surrounding tri-state area. Held annually on the first Saturday of December, this on-air and online auction features an incredible lineup of items and experiences donated by area businesses and the country music and entertainment industries. A dedicated Holiday Auction Committee works year-round to secure these contributions and ensure the event’s continued success.
Over time, the committee has expanded to include key community outreach partners, strengthening the auction’s reach and impact. The event is hosted at Tim Slack Auction & Realty, a long-time advertiser and supporter, and proudly partners with the Grant County Sheriff’s Department’s Shop with the Cop program, Community First Bank as its financial partner, and many loyal sponsors and contributors. Parent company Morgan Murphy Media has also supported the cause by donating their Kohl Center box to various Wisconsin Badger sporting events.
Since its inception, the Holiday Auction has raised over $600,000, providing vital support to 16 food pantries in Grant County and three additional pantries in Iowa and Lafayette Counties. Beyond food security, the auction has helped countless individuals and charitable organizations with limited funding opportunities. Recipients of auction funds include Shop with the Cop, local school districts’ Snackpacks for Backpacks programs, the Grant County Cancer Coalition, and many more worthy causes.
With the support of its partners, sponsors, and volunteers, WGLR has truly lived up to a longtime employee’s words: “made mankind our business.” The Holiday Auction continues to exemplify community service, generosity, and compassion — and looks forward to many more years of making a difference.
The Holiday Auction sponsored by WGLR has proudly served the 97.7 WGLR listening community for over 30 years, making a lasting impact across Grant County and the surrounding tri-state area. Held annually on the first Saturday of December, this on-air and online auction features an incredible lineup of items and experiences donated by area businesses and the country music and entertainment industries. A dedicated Holiday Auction Committee works year-round to secure these contributions and ensure the event’s continued success.
Over time, the committee has expanded to include key community outreach partners, strengthening the auction’s reach and impact. The event is hosted at Tim Slack Auction & Realty, a long-time advertiser and supporter, and proudly partners with the Grant County Sheriff’s Department’s Shop with the Cop program, Community First Bank as its financial partner, and many loyal sponsors and contributors. Parent company Morgan Murphy Media has also supported the cause by donating their Kohl Center box to various Wisconsin Badger sporting events.
Since its inception, the Holiday Auction has raised over $600,000, providing vital support to 16 food pantries in Grant County and three additional pantries in Iowa and Lafayette Counties. Beyond food security, the auction has helped countless individuals and charitable organizations with limited funding opportunities. Recipients of auction funds include Shop with the Cop, local school districts’ Snackpacks for Backpacks programs, the Grant County Cancer Coalition, and many more worthy causes.
With the support of its partners, sponsors, and volunteers, WGLR has truly lived up to a longtime employee’s words: “made mankind our business.” The Holiday Auction continues to exemplify community service, generosity, and compassion — and looks forward to many more years of making a difference.
Tim Slack Auction & Reality serves Lancaster, Fennimore & Southwest Wisconsin.
I have known Tim Slack for over 30 plus years & the word that comes to mind when I think of Tim is that he is the consummate professional. As a young radio rep, Tim was one of my very first calls back in the day. Tim being Tim asked me who I was, and I shared all the details. I said I am a farm girl from Eau Claire County, and that day a personal & professional relationship started. What I quickly found out is that Tim has worked with auction & real estate clients from everywhere, including Southwest Wisconsin.
As an appraisal & real estate agent, Tim has worked with families in buying and selling agricultural, commercial, and residential properties. We all know that many of these transactions can be fairly easy, and some of these transactions can be full of emotion. I have seen Tim in all types of situations, and he is always passionate about both buyers and sellers. The goal is to connect buyers to sellers.
As an auctioneer once again, he is connecting buyers & sellers. Plus, Tim has been able to pivot with this part of his businesses as trends have changed. I remember back in the day, where he & his crew spent hours setting up auctions at the house, farm or other locations. Once he purchased the location at Circle Road, he continued to grow the hay sale & utilizing technology to provide online auctions. This allowed buyers and sellers to use their phones to buy and sell from where they were at, either at the auction barn, milking their cows, working in the field or at their kids' events.
Tim has been a member of the Wisconsin Auctioneer Association for many years serving as President, winning the Wisconsin Auctioneer Association competition & is inducted into the Wisconsin Auction Association Hall of Fame. Tim has been a part of the Grant County Livestock Auction, the Blake’s Prairie Fair Auction, Wisconsin State Fair Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Auction & the Wisconsin State Fair Blue Ribbon Dairy Products Auction. In addition, Tim has sold for the Fennimore Area Foundation for several fundraising projects.
A funny story about the auctioneer side of the business is that a couple of years ago, Tim and his grandson Chase went out to Iowa to attend Worldwide College of Auctioneering as students. Tim's friend, Paul Behr owns the school & wouldn’t you know soon, Tim was teaching & Chase was learning. What a wonderful experience for both Tim & Chase. Anyone that knows Tim knows that it is a classic Tim moment.
Tim Slack Auction & Real Estate are chamber members of both Lancaster & Fennimore. Tim is recently delegated some of the duties to his grandson, Chase, recently like emceeing the Frosty
Night of Cheer. But he is never far from making sure that he & his family & associates are representing at all of the local events.
Tim’s most important job is to be the full-time grandpa to 11 grandchildren. If you don’t find him at work, he is following his grandchildren’s sports. Tim loves to hang out at the ball field or the gym.
I am proud to be able to present the Business of the Year to Tim Slack for 2026. Please join me in congratulating Tim for his committee to the Community of Lancaster & Southwest Wisconsin.
I have known Tim Slack for over 30 plus years & the word that comes to mind when I think of Tim is that he is the consummate professional. As a young radio rep, Tim was one of my very first calls back in the day. Tim being Tim asked me who I was, and I shared all the details. I said I am a farm girl from Eau Claire County, and that day a personal & professional relationship started. What I quickly found out is that Tim has worked with auction & real estate clients from everywhere, including Southwest Wisconsin.
As an appraisal & real estate agent, Tim has worked with families in buying and selling agricultural, commercial, and residential properties. We all know that many of these transactions can be fairly easy, and some of these transactions can be full of emotion. I have seen Tim in all types of situations, and he is always passionate about both buyers and sellers. The goal is to connect buyers to sellers.
As an auctioneer once again, he is connecting buyers & sellers. Plus, Tim has been able to pivot with this part of his businesses as trends have changed. I remember back in the day, where he & his crew spent hours setting up auctions at the house, farm or other locations. Once he purchased the location at Circle Road, he continued to grow the hay sale & utilizing technology to provide online auctions. This allowed buyers and sellers to use their phones to buy and sell from where they were at, either at the auction barn, milking their cows, working in the field or at their kids' events.
Tim has been a member of the Wisconsin Auctioneer Association for many years serving as President, winning the Wisconsin Auctioneer Association competition & is inducted into the Wisconsin Auction Association Hall of Fame. Tim has been a part of the Grant County Livestock Auction, the Blake’s Prairie Fair Auction, Wisconsin State Fair Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Auction & the Wisconsin State Fair Blue Ribbon Dairy Products Auction. In addition, Tim has sold for the Fennimore Area Foundation for several fundraising projects.
A funny story about the auctioneer side of the business is that a couple of years ago, Tim and his grandson Chase went out to Iowa to attend Worldwide College of Auctioneering as students. Tim's friend, Paul Behr owns the school & wouldn’t you know soon, Tim was teaching & Chase was learning. What a wonderful experience for both Tim & Chase. Anyone that knows Tim knows that it is a classic Tim moment.
Tim Slack Auction & Real Estate are chamber members of both Lancaster & Fennimore. Tim is recently delegated some of the duties to his grandson, Chase, recently like emceeing the Frosty
Night of Cheer. But he is never far from making sure that he & his family & associates are representing at all of the local events.
Tim’s most important job is to be the full-time grandpa to 11 grandchildren. If you don’t find him at work, he is following his grandchildren’s sports. Tim loves to hang out at the ball field or the gym.
I am proud to be able to present the Business of the Year to Tim Slack for 2026. Please join me in congratulating Tim for his committee to the Community of Lancaster & Southwest Wisconsin.
Business Improvement Award – Amcor – Lancaster
Amcor – Lancaster has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to growth, safety, and community impact through significant investments made over the past year. In 2025, the site completed multiple major capital projects that not only enhance operations but also strengthen its long-standing partnership with the Lancaster community.
One of the most substantial improvements was the construction and opening of a new Class I, Division II flammable storage facility. This $4.5 million investment added 30,000 square feet to the plant’s operational footprint and dramatically improved the safe handling and storage of combustible materials—reinforcing Amcor’s dedication to employee wellbeing and community safety.
In addition, for the first time in its 40-year history in Lancaster, the plant was awarded a new production line that enables onsite film-to-pouch conversion. This $1.8 million investment represents a transformative shift in manufacturing capabilities, opening new opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and alignment with Amcor’s broader business strategy. Bringing this capability in-house enhances operational flexibility and positions the Lancaster site for long-term, sustainable growth.
These expansions have also delivered meaningful community benefits. The new production line created 12 new full-time positions in Lancaster, reflecting Amcor’s continued commitment to supporting local employment and contributing to the economic vitality of the region.
Collectively, these improvements are strategic, forward-looking investments that elevate safety, expand manufacturing capabilities, create new jobs, and reinforce Amcor’s deep connection with the Lancaster community. For these reasons, Amcor – Lancaster exemplifies what the Business Improvement Award is designed to recognize.
Amcor – Lancaster has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to growth, safety, and community impact through significant investments made over the past year. In 2025, the site completed multiple major capital projects that not only enhance operations but also strengthen its long-standing partnership with the Lancaster community.
One of the most substantial improvements was the construction and opening of a new Class I, Division II flammable storage facility. This $4.5 million investment added 30,000 square feet to the plant’s operational footprint and dramatically improved the safe handling and storage of combustible materials—reinforcing Amcor’s dedication to employee wellbeing and community safety.
In addition, for the first time in its 40-year history in Lancaster, the plant was awarded a new production line that enables onsite film-to-pouch conversion. This $1.8 million investment represents a transformative shift in manufacturing capabilities, opening new opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and alignment with Amcor’s broader business strategy. Bringing this capability in-house enhances operational flexibility and positions the Lancaster site for long-term, sustainable growth.
These expansions have also delivered meaningful community benefits. The new production line created 12 new full-time positions in Lancaster, reflecting Amcor’s continued commitment to supporting local employment and contributing to the economic vitality of the region.
Collectively, these improvements are strategic, forward-looking investments that elevate safety, expand manufacturing capabilities, create new jobs, and reinforce Amcor’s deep connection with the Lancaster community. For these reasons, Amcor – Lancaster exemplifies what the Business Improvement Award is designed to recognize.