The Chamber held its annual banquet and award presentation Tuesday night, and our Kevin Coleman was there.
The 36th "Entrepreneur of the Year" is Bart Herrnstein, who is one of three businessmen who call themselves the "Three Amigos."
He said they figured they could get on the downtown renewal bandwagon early, as the Carlisle Building was being renovated, so they bought and renovated the building that houses Paper City Coffee and the Mighty Children's Museum. They then did the same for 50 West Brewing and Old Capitol Brewery.
He announced that the former 1945 Herrnstein car dealership, recently Bruce Arnold's auto shop "CARRS," is now back in family hands as of Monday. He said he and his wife do not have set plans yet for 26 West Water Street.
President and CEO of the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce Mike Throne emceed the ceremony. He said never before have a father and son received the award. Father Bill (2005) handed the award to son Bart (2020).
Other recipients:
- Special recognition for Leadership and Community Partnerships: Adena Health System
- Special Recognition: Carvel Simmons of Trio Enterprises
- Young Professional of the Year: Jade Berry of The Stack and Life Ready
- Legacy Award: Crispe Créme Donuts and the Renison family
- Corporate Citizenship: North Fork Animal Clinic veterinarian Dr. Blake Lloyd
The Chamber also honored longtime Chamber photographer Doug Etling, who died in December.
Throne said the entire list of recipients should be on the Chamber's website and in the newsletter Wednesday, and a highlight video from DNA Productions will be posted Tuesday.
The event was held at Bell Manor again, out near Southeastern Schools.
Kevin Coleman covers local culture and government