Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Honored for his contributions to the Warsaw community, Neal Carlson received a Distinguished Hoosier Award at Thursday's annual meeting of the Warsaw Community Development Corporation.
Carlson was cited for his work with the Kosciusko County Foundation and the Kosciusko County Historical Society, and for spearheading the rededication of the Kosciusko County courthouse. He received the award from Indiana treasurer Joyce Brinkman, who said, "He is an individual that truly has had a positive impact on our community."
Carlson and Mary Ettinger, president of the historical society, also received community development awards for their work on the courthouse rededication. Mac Silveus, who presented the award, called the rededication "a project that became an event."
The WCDC's goals for 1997, according to board president Gary Nesemeier, include building assets for the corporation and the community, acquiring and promoting affordable housing in the central business district, and promoting downtown Warsaw on the Internet.
Founded in the early 1980s, the purpose of the WCDC is to promote downtown renovations and business development. It includes members from business, banking, local government and the community who want to revitalize the downtown Warsaw area.
"I think this is another example of a success story where business and community leaders come together and ask a simple question: 'How can we help?' " said board treasurer Rick Snodgrass.
Brinkman gave the keynote speech at the meeting, and emphasized the importance of community. "You can't have community if you have disunity," she said.
Members of the WCDC also thanked Letrecia Brown, administrator, for her work with the organization. "She's caused us to refocus and she will be the reason we go forward," said board member Jean Northenor.
