A total of eight area individuals will be honored as recipients of the 27th Annual Heart of Dakota Awards.
This year’s winners are all outstanding community members. The Customer Service award resulted in a rare tie between Jean Fagerland and Laura Kronbach. The People’s Choice award will be given to Deb and Norman Mack, while Preston Kilker, B.J. Richter, and Adam Suther are honored for Community Involvement. The Agribusiness award goes to Wayne Foote.
The awards are sponsored by the Britton Area Foundation, the Britton Area Chamber and the Marshall County Journal. Winners will be recognized at a social and awards presentation set for the Britton Country Club on Wednesday, Sept. 24. The social hour will begin at 5 p.m. with the awards being given out at 6:30 p.m.
Community members and especially past winners are encouraged to attend the event as they will be recognized.
Jean Fagerland – Customer Service
Jean Fagerland, manager of the Marshall County Conservation District, is a 2025 Heart of Dakota Award winner. For nearly 30 years she’s been the “face of the district,” helping landowners, organizing youth programs, and promoting conservation. Known for her warmth and kindness, Fagerland credits her faith and family for inspiring her service to Marshall County.
Laura Kronbach – Customer Service
Lake City Municipal manager Laura Kronbach also received the Heart of Dakota Award. In seven years at LCM, she has expanded events, introduced Hillbilly Days, and led accessibility improvements. Known for treating customers like family, she believes in kindness and second chances. Her efforts have transformed LCM into a welcoming hub for the community.
Wayne Foote – Agribusiness
Wayne Foote of Wayne Foote Repair earned the Agribusiness Award. After 20 years with Likness Brothers, he launched his own repair service 15 years ago and now travels a wide region keeping farmers in the field. Known for quick response and strong work ethic, Foote, 69, says helping customers is reward enough.
Preston Kilker, B.J. Richter, and Adam Suther – Community Involvement
Preston Kilker, B.J. Richter, and Adam Suther received the Community Involvement Award for revitalizing Britton’s youth baseball and softball program. What started with one team a decade ago has grown into nearly 200 kids across divisions, with state tournament success and thriving community support. Their dedication has given local youth—and the town—lasting pride.
Deb and Norman Mack – People’s Choice
Deb and Norman Mack of Britton are this year’s People’s Choice honorees. Deb taught, pastored, and volunteered widely, while Norm spent three decades teaching, coaching, and serving as athletic director, later earning a Hall of Fame induction. Active in civic groups, the couple’s quiet generosity and lifelong service have made them true pillars of the community.
FOR THE FULL STORY ON THIS YEAR'S WINNERS, SEE THIS WEEK'S JOURNAL. TO START YOUR ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION, GIVE US A CALL AT 605-448-2281
