The timing was impeccable. May 11th, 2023, the official end date set by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for the Federal National Public Health Emergency (PHE) Declaration: COVID-19, declared under Section 319 of the Public Health Services (PHS) Act of 1944. To which we all say: Good Riddance and Long Live Us All, Everyone!
Not an organization to let such an auspicious date pass unnoticed, your Chamber brought together 165, or so, of your fellow members for the *102nd Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony held this year at the Pine Barn Inn, Danville last Thursday, May 11th.
A little bit of serious business was transacted with an overview of our new strategic plan Engagement, Value, and Retention, as well as a very effective and informative heart health presentation by George Ruiz, MD a board-certified cardiologist with Geisinger.
Each year it’s the award presentations which draw the most enthusiasm. However, this year the showstoppers were the student ‘Biz Pitches.’ I strongly encourage you to watch these fun ‘pitches’ by clicking on the links in this Elert.
Here’s a quick run-down of the awards that were presented at the *102nd Annual Meeting of the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce along with a word or two about each awardee:
Young Professional of the Year Sara Snyder
Currently serving as the President of the Leadership Susquehanna Board of Directors, Sara is the Risk Manager and Employment Specialist at Shared Support Services. She started an exciting side business known as Sara’s Sweets where she makes some of the tastiest and the prettiest cupcakes, macaroons, sweet breads, and other baked goods that you’ll ever eat or see. A busy professional, an inspired baker, a leader among leaders—but most of all, Sara’s top goal in life is World’s Best Mom (and Wife, as well).
Star of Excellence Sabra Karr
Going above and beyond to fulfill the Chamber’s Mission and bettering the lives and prosperity for everyone in our valley are the hallmarks of the Star of Excellence Award and Sabra firmly strikes each of these marks. Known best for her work with her family’s firm Villager Realty, she also throws her talents, time, as well as very generous contributions to philanthropic causes throughout and beyond our valley. Currently the co-chair of the Chamber Events Committee, it’s crystal-clear to see the ‘Sabra touch’ as our may events just seem to get better and better, and even more, more fun, too. A 2011 LSV graduate, Sabra is truly one of the brightest star in the constellation made up by the thousands of points of light among her fellow Chamber members.
Heritage Award Fred Keller
While not serving in elected office, for the time being, Fred represents the embodiment of the spirit of the Heritage Award which is “…the outstanding legacy of commitment and leadership of an individual within the Chamber membership for their dedication to the growth and prosperity of our valley.” Quoting from his farewell address delivered on his final day from the Well of the US Congress, Fred reminded us that, “America’s greatness does not come from the shining white buildings and mahogany-paneled walls of Washington, DC—but from the people just like each individual Chamber member.” Leave it to Fred to find the hopeful and the deeper meaning in what sometimes seems to be hopeless in our fractured and polarized public arena.
Small Business of the Year for 2023 Isabella’s Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge
Accepting the award were Stacey and Domenico Napoli. While the presentation of their award made them both uncharacteristically speechless, Domenico did mention to me while we posed for photographs that I should make sure to, “Please make sure to thank my employees. They make any success we’ve had possible.” If you haven’t been to Isabella’s, you need to get there soon. If you have been there, you’re probably already a ‘regular.’ A touch of Cheers where everyone knows your name, but with the flavors and aroma of Tuscany, Isabella’s is a fine, fine place to spend an evening and a great crew to work with in catering your next big event. Bella’s Pizza, located next door to Isabella’s in Selinsgrove, is also owned and operated by Stacey and Domenico. According to pizza connoisseur and Weis Markets Vice President, Greg Zeh, their pizza is “Simply the best!”.
Business of the Year for 2023 T-Ross Construction
Todd Ross was on hand to accept this year’s award on behalf of his multi-generational family business. He was quick to point out that his co-owner and brother, Tom would have been there if he wasn’t ‘pounding nails or building something somewhere nearby.” The Ross name immediately brings-to-mind quality construction, strong relationships, and community builders. This is with good reason as Todd pointed out that the legacy that he and Tom keep building upon, since taking over their father’s four-decade nearly 30 years ago, was actually begun in 1756 when four Ross brothers emigrated from Scotland to the colonies (now the United States of America). As Todd said with a smile, “They started building our area way back then and the T-Ross team doesn’t see any reason to stop now.”
A hearty and hale “Well done!” to our 2023 Awardees. Each awardee, every pitch made, every story told at our *102nd Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony inspired us, revved our engines, and stirred us to redouble our efforts to insure that: Our Best Days Lie Just Ahead.
From Where I Sit
