Watkins Glen chamber will honor winners at winter gala

WATKINS GLEN--On Saturday, Jan. 20, the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce will host its Winter Gala at the Harbor Hotel. The evening, which will feature a Great Gatsby theme along with auctions, live music by the Rochester Rat Pack, dinner and the program honoring this year' award winners.
The chamber announced the following awards, Friday, Jan. 5:
The Community Spirit Award will go to Dena Carrigan of Chemung Canal Trust Company. The honor is awarded to a member of the chamber (a business or an individual) that has demonstrated leadership and excellence in philanthropy. The winner also encourages civic initiatives, facilitates humanitarianism, and positively impacts their community.
The Leader in Business Award will be presented to Dan Bower of Watkins Brewery Vacation Rentals and Hunt Engineers. The Leader in Business is awarded to a member of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce that has made a dynamic contribution to the Schuyler County business community within the last decade, expanded the business mix in Schuyler County, and continues to foster economic opportunity, while assuming considerable risk and being a respected entrepreneur.
The Ambassador of the Year Award award will go to Bill Sitzman, a longtime chamber volunteer and patron. As an ambassador, Sitzman has demonstrated complete dedication, investment, and leadership in the chamber and its Ambassador program.
The Max Neal Award will be given to Tony Fraboni of Community Bank, NA. The award celebrates an individual who has demonstrated consistent dedication, selflessness, faith, determination and support in the future and well-being of the chamber. The individual has made it clear to the community that they recognize the chamber as their Schuyler County organization of choice and further, invests and mentors the future leadership of Schuyler County. This individual must have served on a committee or board of directors or been employed by the chamber for a minimum of five years.
Chamber President and CEO Rebekah Carroll shares, "This is always an evening to remember. Our Great Gatsby theme promises to deliver an elegant experience. We look forward to honoring our award winners and enjoying a wonderful night of dining and entertainment with all of our chamber and community friends."
New this year, Magician Doug Welch will perform strolling and table side magic tricks and illusions. In addition, there will be a Casino Speakeasy where you can try your hand at games of chance. Tickets are $85 per person and tables of 10 are available as well. To purchase tickets, call events manager Anna Rainous at 607-535-4300.