Celebrating Henderson was truly the theme of the Chamber Banquet held on Monday, January 16. Ninety people attended the event and had the opportunity to listen to the guest speaker, Sue Hill, who expanded the differences between the four current generations in the workforce including the Traditionalists, the Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y. She encouraged business leaders to think outside the box when finding ways to engage employees in different generations and allow them to work in the model that they feel comfortable with to increase productivity and success.
In addition to the speaker, Kelsey Bergen, Executive Director, spoke about the upcoming events that will take place in 2012 to celebrate the 125th Anniversary of Henderson as well as the Benefits of being a Chamber member. Past Chamber President, James Ohrt recognized Shari Peters for her four years of serve on the Chamber Board of Directors and recognized Norm Yoder for completing his three year term as the Chamber Vice President, President and Past President. Byron Friesen, current Chamber President, followed with a focus for the community in the upcoming year.
Nine different businesses were presented with Milestone Awards during the evening. Businesses recognized for reaching milestones in 2011 included: Henderson Pharmacy for 20 years, Metz Mortuary for 30 years, CNF Inc. for 35 years, and the Henderson Housing Authority for 45 years. Also recognized, but unable to attend the banquet included Henderson Transfer for 5 years, Brush Strokes for 15 years, Tri County Automotive for 35 years and Kroeker and Kroeker Insurance and Real Estate for 70 years. In addition to recognizing businesses that have been in the community for a number of years, the Chamber also recognized a business that is new to the community. Matt Buller, owner of Spectra Wraps, received a First Dollar of Profit for his business which moved to Henderson at the end of 2011.
The Friend of Henderson Award was presented during the banquet to Norm Yoder, who was chosen due to a lifetime committed to serving the community through the Henderson Chamber, Henderson Health Care Services Board of Directors, the Heritage Committee, Henderson Community Foundation, and a commitment to supporting student activities over the past 27 years as the Superintendent of Henderson and Heartland Community Schools.
The Henderson Chamber of Commerce Banquet was sponsored by Cornerstone Bank and Kroeker & Kroeker Insurance and Real Estate. Funding for the speaker, Sue Hill, was provided by a JOBS Grant through the Federal Home Loan Bank in Topeka. Businesses sponsoring tables included the City of Henderson, Henderson State Bank, Henderson Health Care Services, Mainstay Communications, and Kliewer Auction Services.
Kelsey Bergen
