WINONA LAKE – Warsaw’s Bill Landrigan and Claypool’s Janet Warren were honored Thursday night as the Warsaw/Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce Man and Woman of the Year.
The Chamber also recognized businesses in the county and marked its 100th anniversary.
The evening was capped by Governor Mitch Daniels serving as the keynote speaker.
“I’m overwhelmed with emotion about this evening,” said Warsaw/Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce Director Mark Dobson about getting Daniels.
The event took place at the Orthopedic Capital Center on the campus of Grace College and was filled with people in business, politics and education.
Several business were highlighted, and the night closed with the Man and Woman of the Year awards.
“Devoted to and instrumental in the successes of her many causes” is how one nominator described Warren.
Another said, “Her kindness to others, such as driving cancer patients, regularly visiting many people in nursing homes and providing meals for others, is exemplary”; adding, “She is a reflection of her deep faith. Her success in helping others is because of that faith. She loves serving, leading by example. She is a model for Kosciusko County’s Woman of the Year.”
Times-Union General Manager Gary Gerard then listed Warren’s long list of activities and noted her tireless volunteerism.
When Gerard asked Warren how she found the time, Warren responded. “I don’t know. I don’t have time for this.”
That line caused a raucous outburst of laughter from the capacity audience at the OCC.
“Thank you all,” said Warren. “I feel very humbled.”
As for Landrigan, the 45-year Warsaw resident was recognized for his efforts as an educator, including principal at Sacred Heart, and his efforts with Right To Life.
Landrigan also was honored for being a tremendous family man who raised his own children, helped raise two grandchildren and traveling to Grand Rapids, Mich., every week to babysit quadruplet grandchildren.
“I’d like to thank the Warsaw community for providing me with a career and showing me a tremendous amount of love,” said Landrigan.
Jan Orban was honored as the Ambassador of the Year. During his speech introducing Orban, Dobson said she is a dedicated volunteer and an inspiration.
Dobson also hinted at the fact that Orban may help bring an Italian restaurant to Warsaw.
Trace F. Hansen was named Young Adult Professional of the Year. He is the owner of Eastlake Skating Center.
CenturyLink’s Jack Moore described Hansen as “a successful businessman and an active community leader.”
Kosciusko Business Leadership Network Employer of the Year was Walgreen’s for hiring those with special needs.
Daniels was named the Government Excellence Award winner Thursday night.
Indiana American Water was named the Service Business Award winner.
The Dimensions of Excellence in Business Award was given to Sorg Nissan.
The Dimensions of Excellence Entrepreneur went to Wihebrink Landscape Management.
B&M Instruments Inc and owners Mark and Janice Workman were honored with the Industry Award.
