Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2004
Contact: Betsy Woods, Executive Director, 260.982.7644
Karen Fawcett, 2003 Board Chair, 260.982.9900
Sandy Atkinson, 2004 Board Chair, 260.982.8650
Chamber of Commerce
109 N. Market St.
North Manchester, IN 46962
260.982.7644 office
260.982.8718 fax
nmcc@kconline.com
www.northmanchesterchamber.com

Merritt's, Key Pharmacy, Schutz Brothers and Others Honored at North Manchester Chamber of Commerce 60th Annual Dinner
January 23, 2004

Over 200 business and community leaders gathered in the North Manchester Center for History for the 60th Annual Chamber of Commerce Dinner sponsored by Manchester College, Beacon Credit Union, Cinergy PSI, Wabash County Hospital, MSKTD Architects Engineers Interiors, Peabody Retirement Community, Strauss Veal Feeds, Pizza Hut and Lance's New Market. The evening centered around the theme "Moonlight Café," celebrating 60 years of the North Manchester Chamber Annual Dinner.

At the close of the 6:00 pm social hour, guests were ushered into the west hall where they were welcomed by the North Manchester Historical Society, Executive Director Betsy Woods and 2004 Vice Chair Stuart Jones. A video presentation titled "Welcome to North Manchester" was then presented for all to reminisce on the past and present.

Chartwell's Dining Service catered the three-course meal, which consisted of arugula salad, stuffed pork loin, glazed carrots, roasted red potatoes, and raspberry chocolate cheesecake.

The awards program immediately followed the meal, beginning with a ceremonial passing of the gavel from 2003 Board Chair Karen Fawcett to 2004 Board Chair Sandy Atkinson.

The 2003 Business of the Year Award was presented to Key Pharmacy for their distinguished reputation, consistent financial success, and commitment to the community over the past forty years since their establishment.

Schutz Brothers, Inc., manufacturer and wholesaler of horse equipment, was the recipient of the 2003 Industry of the Year based upon their business success, favorable labor relations, esteem among their peers and corporate citizenry.

The Founder's Award, targeted to honor those entities and institutions whose long-term presence has made significant contributions to the character and economy of the community, was given to the Peabody Retirement Community.

Vision, fortitude, and commitment to the town are the primary criteria for the Spirit of the Community Award, given this year to Terry and Pam McKee. The climax of the award program came with the surprise announcement of the 2003 Citizen of the Year - Karl and Bonnie Dee Merritt. Wabash County natives, Karl and Bonnie Dee model exceptional commitment and love for the community and are true leaders by example. Karl is the voice of Manchester College athletics and has been involved in Town Council, Rotary and historical renovation.

2004 Chair Sandy Atkinson concluded the evening with a farewell.

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