Two annual awards with Jefferson Matters have been announced ahead of the Community Appreciation event next Sunday.

According to Jefferson Matters, the recipients of this year’s Above and Beyond the Call (ABC) Award are Steve and Julie Karber. Dr. Steve Karber was a physician for many years and also served on the Greene County School Board from 2017-2021 and they both were part of a steering committee that helped build the new high school in Jefferson. 

Jefferson Matters says the Karbers have also been instrumental with Bringing Opportunities and Optimism to Students and Teachers (BOOST) and their annual fundraiser helping with logistics, coordinating the meals from Ram Restaurant and securing donations and sponsors.

Jefferson Matters points out that Julie has participated in a pen pal program where local adults are paired with fourth graders to make lasting friendships. Jefferson Matters adds that the two of them have even helped several 4-H’ers and have contributed financially to several fundraisers and church functions.

The other recognition announced by Jefferson Matters is the Forces Under 40 with this year’s recipient being Shelby Wiggins. According to Jefferson Matters, Wiggins has played a major role with the Bell Tower Festival Steering Committee, the Winter Festival Committee, helped with CyHawk Tailgating activities and assisted when the Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) would come through Jefferson. Jefferson Matters says Wiggins works in the loan department at Home State Bank, where she organized their cookbook, volunteered through her job on several activities.

All of the award recipients will be honored at the Community Appreciation event on Sunday, April 26 at RVP~1875 starting at 2pm.