If you need it, Cory Mueggenborg will help.

No need to thank him. That was the general message Dillon Smith conveyed to a crowd of several hundred Monday night at the 86th Kingfisher Chamber of Commerce Banquet in the Exhibit Building at the Kingfisher County Fairgrounds.

Smith introduced Mueggenborg as the 2025 Citizen of the Year during the banquet.

“This Is My Town” served as the theme of the banquet. Attendees were encouraged to wear clothing representing their respective businesses or organizations in town.

The meal was dubbed “A Taste of Kingfisher” Extravaganza.

It featured 14 different vendors who serve food throughout Kingfisher and they provided samplings of their menus.

Prior to the meal, outgoing Chamber Board President Colton DeMuth addressed the crowd and praised Executive Director Shauna Rupp for her continued successes with the chamber.

“Shauna is the driving force behind our chamber and our community,” De-Muth said. “There is no doubt the future of Kingfi sher is bright with you at the helm.”

DeMuth introduced this year’s board president, El-len Wilfong, and called her “the most selfless and thoughtful leader.”

Wilfong returned praise, calling DeMuth “a very humble leader.”

“We do have a great team this year that I look forward to working with,” Wilfong said.

Joining DeMuth in being outgoing board members are Darcy Reherman, Macy Winters and Vanessa England.

Remaining on the board with Wilfong are Cindy Harris, Jon Benham, Crystal Hill, Jeff Hyatt, Paula Leffingwell, Wendell Prim and Lane Winter.

New members this year are Dan Craig, Margaret Phillips, Dillon Smith and Ben Yost.

Several local leaders and business owners also addressed the crowd with a message about why “This Is My Town.”

They included Chod Trout, Morgan Winters, Paul Schulte, John Johnson, Roxie Alexander, Dan Craig, Jaryn Buseman and Savana Reherman.

Other awards presented at the event were Volunteer of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year (see related stories) and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The last of those awards was actually presented during an assembly Jan. 17 at Kingfisher High School to longtime teacher Dr. A.J. Johnson.

Disguised as an assembly about citizenship, it featured a number of state and local dignitaries, civic leaders and peers of Johnson.

Among them was State Sen. Darcy Jech.

“Just know that whenever the time comes that you decide to step away, you’ve left a legacy that sets the example for a lot of your peers and a lot of these students,” Jech said.

Local attorney Jared Harrison, who works alongside Johnson on the staff at Oklahoma Boys State, was also among those who addressed the assembly.

He referenced a quote by Sen. Bill Bradley: “Leadership is unlocking people’s potential to become better.”

“Dr. Johnson you have certainly done that for me and countless other people in this room,” Harrison said.

“You have certainly made your proverbial dent in the universe through your leadership, your mentorship, your friendship and your kindness to me and everyone else in this room. I’m just thrilled to get to be here today to say ‘thank you.’” Johnson was also at Monday’s banquet and was recognized for his honor.

Unable to attend, Mueggenborg was represented at the banquet by his wife, Carrie Mueggenborg.

Smith said Mueggenborg has “an unwavering kindness and steadfast love for Kingfisher” which helps make him “an exemplary role model and pillar of our community.”

The Mueggenborgs own a pair of businesses in Kingfisher: Mueggenborg Contracting and Capital Roll-Off.

The equipment he owns is often made available to serve the community, said Smith.

“Every year this man generously donates the use of his lift to assist with Kingfisher Winter Nights, ensuring our holiday lights are enjoyed by everyone who comes to visit.”

Smith also noted Mueggenborg was among those dangling some 40 feet in the air in November to hang the lighted star atop the Christmas tree that was planted at the park’s entrance.

Again, they were using his equipment and services.

He said Mueggenborg has taken several people under his wing and donated his time, talent and resources “all without seeking public recognition or applause.”

“In an age when acts of kindness are often publicized for social media likes, this man’s humility and quiet generosity are a rare and beautiful testament to his character.”

There’s another side to Mueggenborg, said Smith.

“What sets this man apart is his genuine care for everyone he encounters. He has a way of making people feel valued and loved, often expressing his affection openly and sincerely,” Smith said.

“If he loves you, you know it because he tells you.”

Smith said Mueggenborg “works tirelessly to achieve more” and makes sure to help others along the way.

“His dedication to the people of Kingfisher is unwavering, whether it’s lending a helping hand to a stranded motorist or simply being there for anyone who needs it, this man always shows up and he does so without expecting anything in return,” Smith said.

“The recipient’s love for this town and its people are evident in everything he does. He embodies the spirit of community, kindness and resilience that makes Kingfi sher so special.”