Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE - D. Blaine Mikesell was recognized for his many contributions to the town during the annual community dinner at Lakeland Christian Academy Thursday.
From a speaker phone in California, the longtime resident thanked everyone for the recognition. "Much has been said about the 'good old days' in Winona. But today ... these are the 'good old days,'" he said.
Judy Reneker presents the Bill Reneker Memorial Community Service Award in honor of her late husband each year. The award is given by the Reneker family to an individual recommended by the town council.
Mikesell grew up in Winona Lake and was a longtime member of the Winona Lake Presbyterian Church. He is a well-known regional business leader and was president of ABC Industries from 1940 to 1979. He served on the town council from 1952 to 1959 and on the Winona Lake Economic Development Committee from its beginning in 1980 until he retired from the post in January.
He is an enthusiastic supporter of the MasterWorks Festival and Grace College. He served on the Westminster Campaign Steering Committee to renovate the building and was honored by the college by having the lobby and conference area in the hall named after him.
Images of Mikesell and the town were played on a screen as Reneker read about the honoree.
Highlights of this year's dinner included tours of the academy and visits with various organizations that presented information.
Dr. Patrick Kavanaugh of the Christian Performing Artist Association talked about the history of St. Patrick.
Jim Ziebarth of Grace College, Brent Wilcoxson of Village at Winona and Jeff Carroll of Grace Village each gave updates on current and future projects.
Grace Village was recognized for 30 years of service to the community. Art & Soul, Caffe Villaggio, Closet Tamers, the Village Barber and the Pink Poodle were recognized as new businesses.
Home improvement awards were presented to Steve and Nancy McGlothin; 105 Second St.; Phil and Cami Hood, 800 Chestnut St.; and Alvin and Mary Devries, 307 Auditorium Blvd.
Appreciation committee members were Joy Lohse, Bev Kent, Polly Minear, Judy Mugg, Retha Hicks, Craig Allebach, Trish Jenks and Judy Reneker. Karen Shingledecker and Ellen Swaim were thanked for all their assistance.
Entertainment was provided by Lois Langlois and the academy's music group Evidence, led by Freya Varner.
