The Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner will be held February 28th at the Audrain County 4H Center.
As previously announced Mark DeJaynes will be honored as the Colonel C.R. Stribling Award winner.
Mark DeJaynes has been a dedicated member of the Mexico community since 1991, making a lasting impact through his selflessness and passion for service.
As the owner of A Marked Salon and a trained stylist, DeJaynes combines professional excellence with a deep commitment to helping others.
His contributions span decades, from volunteering with Presser Arts Center productions for over 27 seasons to supporting the Miss Missouri pageant, the Back to School Health Fair, and cancer patients through “Look Good, Feel Good” events.
G. ANDY RUNGE AMBASSADOR AWARD
Ben & Darla Eggers, Sydenstricker Genetics – Ben and Darla Eggers have made their mark in the world of Angus cattle and their adopted hometown of Mexico, Missouri.
Originally from opposite corners of the state—Jackson in the southeast and Faucett in the northwest—the couple met through their shared love of Angus cattle.
This passion drives their lives and their work to promote Sydenstricker Genetics, a world-renowned registered Angus seedstock operation.
Ben has been with Sydenstricker Genetics for over 42 years, while Darla has worked full-time on the farm for the past 15 years.
Together, they have been married for 38 years.
Sydenstricker’s unique breeding program has achieved global acclaim, producing five sires with over $1 million in semen sales.
Their efforts extend beyond farming, as they welcome visitors from across Missouri, the United States, and abroad, showcasing modern production agriculture.
The Sydenstricker Genetics annual production sale, held each November, attracts over 500 attendees from more than 20 states, generating significant economic benefits for Mexico.
G. ANDY RUNGE AMBASSADOR AWARD
Sebastien Heintz – Sebastien Heintz is the founder and president of Zenith Aircraft Company, a leader in kit aircraft manufacturing based in Mexico, Missouri.
Following in the footsteps of his father, renowned aircraft designer Chris Heintz, Sebastien has championed sport aviation and made aircraft ownership accessible. He founded Zenith Aircraft in 1992 and has grown it into the nation’s leading light sport aircraft manufacturer.
Sebastien hosts hands-on workshops introducing enthusiasts to the joys of building and flying aircraft.
Zenith’s annual Homecoming event draws over 500 visitors for seminars and social activities.
A recipient of multiple aviation awards, Sebastien also supports the community as a past board member of the Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce, among other leadership roles.
CIVIC LEADER RECOGNITION
Tad Dobyns – Tad Dobyns, a Mexico resident originally from Shelbina, Missouri, has dedicated his career to serving the Audrain County community.
A graduate of Northeast Missouri State University, Tad began his work in 2005 as a Client Services Coordinator and later became a Community Organizer.
In 2024, he joined Partners for Rural Impact as the Hawthorne Elementary School Site Coordinator.
Tad has served on seven community boards, six advisory councils, and numerous committees, demonstrating his commitment to fostering growth and addressing local needs.
From coaching youth sports to coordinating COVID vaccination events, Tad has focused on building relationships and enhancing services that strengthen Mexico and Audrain County.
EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR
Stephanie Robinett – A lifelong resident of Mexico, Missouri, Stephanie Robinett has dedicated herself to the education and growth of her community.
A 2007 graduate of Mexico High School, Stephanie returned to Mexico Middle School in 2011 and currently teaches 8th-grade math.
Over the past 13 years, she has embraced leadership roles, including Math Department Chair and Student Council Advisor, where she mentors students and enhances curriculum development.
Beyond the classroom, Stephanie is an Elder and Children’s Ministry Committee co-chair at the First Presbyterian Church.
Together with her husband, Mike, and their two children, Raigan and Bryce, she remains active in sports, church events, and the Be-Bo-Bouncers 4H Club.
Her dedication to education, community, and family has earned her this recognition.
CIVIC AWARD
Mission to Mexico – Rush Hill Community Church
Since 2007, members of the Rush Hill Community Church have embarked on annual mission trips hosted by Group Workcamps, spreading Christ’s message through service across the United States.
Their efforts have included hosting mission trips in Mexico, Missouri, starting in 2020.
These events have had a profound local impact, with 442 campers completing 52 home improvement projects, including wheelchair ramps, porches, and painting, totaling 13,260 service hours.
Additionally, the campers contributed 3,121 items to the Mexico Help Center.
The church’s ongoing dedication to mission work not only serves others but also inspires its members and partners, reinforcing the spirit of community and faith.