Half Century Award

I’ve been remiss on following up on my previous post regarding receiving the Half Century Award from Governor Holcomb. Dr. Berger had too many patients scheduled to take time off for this, so my niece, Nikole Garthwaite, graciously filled in as my plus 1 and personal photographer.

The event was held in the Rotunda of the State House and was put on by IEDC (Indiana Economic Development Corporation) with Governor Holcomb handing out the awards. Elaine Bedel, head of IDEC, served as master of ceremonies. An auspicious location to say the least.

There were a large group of recipients, both in the Century and Half Century category. It was a very congenial event. The State staff made it clear that receiving the award was an acknowledgment of a significant achievement worth honoring. It was humbling being in the group… More so being in the smaller subset of family businesses that achieved the milestone. There were only few there that had stayed family businesses past the 3rd generation.

I was presented with a framed certificate (right), which is now hanging in our office. I’ve received countless congratulations from people that read about the event. I received congratulatory letters from Senators Randy Head and Andy Zay.

Letter from Senator Head

Letter from Senator Zay

I also received a very nice hand written note from Regina Emberton of the South Bend/Elkhart Regional Partnership. I have worked with her on various things through MCEDC and she was instrumental in the Regional Cities grant we received for the street project at Sand Hill Farm. I am sure that made a big difference in Culver receiving Stellar Designation.

All in all it was a great event. I hesitated about taking the day off to do it, but it turned out to be well worth it.

Below are a few additional pictures Nikki took during the event. She ran up to the balcony (in heels!) to take a couple of these shots. She was a trooper!

Our name on the big screen

KLB with Governor Holcomb & Director Bedel

Picture from Balcony

Group Shot