The Iola-Scandinavia Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated outstanding individuals and businesses for their exceptional contributions throughout 2024 at a banquet held on Wednesday, May 21, at the Crystal Café.
The Iola-Scandinavia Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its much-anticipated annual awards banquet on the evening of May 21 at the Crystal Café, celebrating a year of community commitment and local excellence. Chamber President Greg Loescher emceed the event, which included a heartfelt moment of silence for the late Lyle Mork, a respected leader remembered for his longstanding service to the community.
Three awards were presented to individuals and businesses whose efforts have significantly enriched the Iola-Scandinavia area over the past year. Before announcing the winners, the Chamber recognized all nominees with certificates of distinction, highlighting the strong field of contenders for each honor.
Person of the Year: Diana Jones
Diana Jones is a person of strong integrity and commitment. Her positive attitude and steady presence have made her a trusted and valued member of the community. Through both her professional work and volunteer efforts, Diana consistently demonstrates a genuine willingness to serve and support those around her.
As the owner of JP Media, a local business that employs 18 people, Diana plays an active role in both the professional and civic life of the community. Her company produces magazines, newsletters, websites, books, and webinars. Beyond business, JP Media is deeply committed to giving back, offering two $500 scholarships annually to graduating students in the Iola-Scandinavia School District and regularly sponsoring or donating to numerous organizations and events across Waupaca County.
Diana is an active member of the Chamber of Commerce, contributing her time and talents to events like Taste & Tunes, the Fourth of July Fireworks, and other community celebrations. She served as the Chamber’s Treasurer from 2023 through January 2025 and is willing to help when there is a need.
Her civic involvement extends even further. A dedicated member of the Iola Lions Club, and formerly the secretary of the Iola Lioness Club, Diana is always quick to roll up her sleeves and help—from volunteering for the annual Stuff the Bus drive each August, to the Lions/Leo’s Easter Party, and the Iola-Scandinavia Post Prom party. As a Lioness she was involved in coordinating events like the Iola City-Wide Rummage Sale, which she continued through JP Media into 2023. She currently serves as assistant leader of the Iola Leos Club, which provides leadership and service opportunities for students in middle and high school. She also finds time to serve at the Iola Car Show, the Scandinavia Corn Roast, and designs the Ride for Heroes brochure each summer.
Diana volunteers with her church once a month teaching the 4th-6th grade students.
For the past seven years, Diana has served on the Iola-Scandinavia School Board, including terms as president (2 years), vice president (2 years), and currently as clerk. Her support of local youth doesn’t stop there—she is very involved in her children’s activities. Over the years, she has volunteered for Pee Wee Cheerleading, school musicals, and chaperoning field trips. She has also participated as a judge for DECA competitions and lends a hand at the local voting polls for the Village of Iola.
Diana’s ongoing contributions reflect her deep commitment to our community. She shows up, follows through, and puts in the work—whether behind the scenes or front and center. Her efforts have made a lasting impact across many areas of local life.
Other nominees for the prestigious Person of the Year honor included community contributors Barb Kobs and Jerry Kopecky.
Business of the Year: Melum Masonry
Melum Masonry, led by third-generation mason Jules Melum, earned the title of Business of the Year. Renowned for its craftsmanship and community engagement, the business has become a cornerstone of construction and repair work in the Iola, Waupaca, and Stevens Point areas.
One of Melum’s most notable projects was restoring stonework at the historic Wipf sawmill power plant, which is now featured in the background of the company’s website imagery. In 2023, Melum began constructing a new office and showroom at the corner of State and Summit streets, marking the first new building in Iola since 2019.
Melum Masonry has been recognized not only for its quality work but also for its community spirit. Jules and his wife, Megan, both entrepreneurs, took the initiative to help save the Iola Winter Carnival in 2024, stepping into leadership roles to ensure the beloved event could continue. Their shared dedication underlines the family’s ongoing commitment to preserving and enhancing the vibrancy of the I-S community.
Other nominees for Business of the Year included Country Chic Boutique and LittleWolf Gallery.
Spark Plug Award: Megan Melum
Megan Melum received the Spark Plug Award, honoring her dynamic contributions to community events and marketing initiatives. She played a key role in revitalizing the 2024 Iola Winter Carnival, ensuring the continuation of its 65-year legacy. Her leadership and creativity brought back traditional events like the Lutefisk Supper — this year a sellout — and a robust Craft Fair.
Through her business, Megan Marketing, she lent her expertise to numerous local campaigns, managing Facebook promotions for the Winter Carnival and the Chamber’s Taste & Tunes in 2023. Her entrepreneurial drive and dedication to community visibility made her an indispensable asset in local event promotion and organization.
Amanda Christoph was also nominated for the Spark Plug Award.