After a century, the local Chamber is still going strong
The Knox County Chamber of Commerce celebrated 100th years of growth during the group’s annual banquet last night at Vincennes University.
President Marc McNeece stated the Chamber remains relevent and membership strong after 100-years of service .
McNeece says the Chamber has a total of 350 members, some of those are from Daviess County and Lawrence County, Illinois who do business in Knox County. He also noted many of those are smaller businesses which is a good indication that the economy is strong in Knox County.
McNeece also acknowledged long standing members Good Samaritan Hospital and Gardner Funeral Home who have been with the Chamber since its founding in 1916. He says they will continue to recognize other long time members throughout the remainder of this year.
The Chamber also handed out its annual awards during last night’s banquet. Old National Bank was recognized as the 2016 Business of the Year, Cantwell Marathon with 40-years of Service to the Vincennes Community was named the Small Business of the Year. The Chamber also recorgnized Kathy Clinkenbeard and Marilyn Schroder as co-receipients of the Chamber’s Women In Business Award. The Mother/Daughter duo operates Wabash Parts in Vincennes.
KNOX CHAMBER BANQUET 2
A former Vincennes native says he owes a debt of gratitude to his hometown.
Chef Jonathan Crossland was the keynote speaker at last night’s Knox County Chamber of Commerce Banquet.
Crossland says he learned a lot about the business world while working for various employers while growing up.
TAKE AUDIO CROSSLAND1 :14 OUTQ-My Presentation”
The Vincennes Lincoln Graduate says he worked his way up through the food industry from washing dishes to eventually becoming a full fledged chef and operating his own restaurant for a time.
Crossland is currently employed by Dallas based Illess Seasons & Flavoring. His current job allows him to travel the world in search of new ideas and food products.
TAKE AUDIO CROSSLAND2 :13 OUTQ-New Ideas”
Crossland’s advice to those thinking of a career in the food industry is too work, don’t be afraid to take chances and be creative. Crossland was presented with a chef’s jacket from Vincennes University’s Culinary Arts program during last night’s Chamber Banquet.