Starke County Economic Development Foundation Announces 50+ Year Business Awards

The Starke County Economic Development Foundation will be holding it’s “Prospectus and Achievements Night” next Thursday evening, November 10th.

Several awards will be given out that night. For the very first time, the Foundation is recognizing those industries which have been actively involved in business within the county for 50 years or more.

Executive Director, Charles Weaver, says the first to be recognized is almost 100 years old.

“American Oak began business in North Judson in 1916,” said Weaver. “They are also one of the companies being honored this year for another expansion in North Judson.”

Staying in North Judson Weaver tells us about the next business.

“Thermal Products has been here now for 62 years. While they do not do production anymore in Starke County, their engineering, warranty service and logistical components are being taken care of out of North Judson.”

“Knox Fertilizer began business in Starke County in 1950 and has grown from a small business to a significant player in home fertilizer products and products dealing with the leisure world in golf courses. They do a lot of very quiet, behind the scenes, innovation.”

“Phillip Konrad and Sons is celebrating their 54th year. The company began in Starke County by Phillip V. Konrad. They’re a mill work operation. They do everything architectural. You should walk in and take a look at their catalog and photographs of what they’ve produced over the years and where they’ve produced it.”

Tomorrow, Mr. Weaver will announce the recipients of the Robert Hamilton Award.