The 84th annual dinner meeting of the Huntington County Chamber of Commerce was held, Monday, January 21, 2008 at the North Star Civic Center. Mark Wickersham, Indiana Economic Development Director for Growth Region III, was the master of ceremonies. Greeting from Governor Mitch Daniels were provided by Mr. Wickersham. He highlighted the dynamic growth that occurred in the thirteen counties of northeastern Indiana. Mark told the crowd that only the metropolitan Indianapolis area had more growth than we did.
2007 Chair, Jeremy Nix, Matheny, Michael, Hahn, Denman, Nix, LLC, reported on the actions taken by the Chamber during the year. He highlighted on going events such as the AfterHours, Networking Showcase Breakfasts, Heritage Days and A. B.I.G. Day that provide a host of networking opportunities. Mr. Nix also, discussed some of the new events such as the Career EXPO held at Huntington North High School and the luncheon held for Governor Mitch Daniels.
Outgoing Board of Directors, Margaret Roush from Huntington University, Tom Mettler with Mettler Insurance Agency, and 2006 chair, Becky Gerhart, president of the Huntington Wells Fargo Bank where thanked for their years of service. Then during the business portion of the meeting, three new directors were elected: Nicole Johnson of Edward Jones, Dan Juergens with Juergens Do It Best, and Michael McElhaney representing McElhaney-Hart Funeral Home to a three year term. Re-elected to a second three year term were past chair, Jeremy Nix, Matheny, Michael, Hahn, Denman, Nix, LLC and Ron Tinkle of First Federal Savings Bank. Their term will expire in 2010.
After the dinner, Jeremy Nix was recognized for his selection as the 2007 Citizen of the Year by the Huntington Herald-Press lively entertainment. Herald-Press publisher, Steve Kimmel told the 168 assembled Chamber Members the many community activities in which Jeremy has participated.
Once the business was conducted, the Swampwater Stompers provided an hour of Dixieland jazz. The seven person band took music from New Orleans, New York and even the Beatles to provide a foot pounding event.
