Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
In the midst of welcoming a new president and saying goodbye to a longtime administrative assistant, the Warsaw/Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce recognized a cross section of businesses and individuals.
Mary Kittrell, who worked for the Chamber and Kosciusko Development Inc. for 13 years, was thanked by 1997 chairman Bill Henthorn for her years of service.
"We're glad you're staying in the community," Henthorn said to Kittrell, who is now sales manager at the Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Henthorn also introduced the chamber's new president, Joy McCarthy-Sessing, who began her job last week.
"I look forward to the challenge," McCarthy-Sessing said, "and I also look forward to getting out in the community to meet with each one of you in the coming year."
Peggy Shively, director of Family and Social Services Administration, was named the 1997 Woman of the Year in recognition of her years of service to the children of Kosciusko County.
Shively was noted for her dedication, compassion, professionalism and sense of humor. Called an "advocate," she was recognized for "her no-nonsense approach to her job, her directness, and for being firm but fair."
Man of the Year for 1997 was Al Disbro, vice president and branch manager for Lake City Bank. Disbro was cited for the many hours he has volunteered as a photographer for groups and events all over the county.
Called "unassuming" and "generous," Disbro was noted for being "one of the most visible people in the community (and) one of the least obvious," and for preferring to make others look good.
The government excellence award for 1997 went to Kosciusko County Sheriff Al Rovenstine, who will retire after this year.
Award presenter Jean Northenor said Rovenstine has "consistently held a firm but compassionate line when dealing with the public."
Northenor also recognized Rovenstine's wife, Sandy, for helping him in his public service career.
Lake City Bank president Doug Grant was the surprised recipient of the Athena Award, in its second year, which recognizes community leaders who help women reach their full potential.
Grant was noted for providing leadership opportunities for women and for encouraging women in professional positions.
"This award is earned, not won," said presenter Barbara Dombkowski.
Besides honoring individuals for their contributions to the community, the chamber's annual banquet also recognizes businesses that provide stability and innovation in the area.
Winner of the general business award was Kosciusko Community Hospital, which began in 1972.
With 52 doctors and more than 700 employees, KCH was called by presenter Charlie Smith the third largest employer in the area and an "outstanding organization."
Reinholt's Town Square Furniture received the entrepreneur business award for having what presenter Dennis Burch called a "significant and positive impact on the community."
The small industry award, which goes to a business with fewer than 200 employees, this year went to Morton International, which presenter Clint Pletcher called "a pioneer in the powder coatings industry."
Pletcher said Morton, which has been in business since 1949, employs 105 people, is active in community concerns and has a turnover rate of 1 percent.
The 1997 large industry award went to Dana Corp., Spicer Axle Division, in Syracuse.
The largest division of Dana Corp., the Spicer Axle Division was called by presenter Kay Andrews "a global leader in the manufacture and distribution of automotive products."
