The Greater Churchville-Riga Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the winners of its 2016 community awards, which will be presented at its annual dinner on Thursday, March 9 at Naughton’s Johnson House. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m. following social time commencing at 6:30 p.m.
Kathleen Stephany is the 2016 Citizen of the Year. Nancy Steedman, Mayor of the Village of Churchville, nominated Kathy. In her nomination she asked, “How many times have you driven down the road, seen someone who needed help and just kept going? Well, Kathy is one of those people who stopped to help. She started to pass a truck on Buffalo Road that was moving slowly up the hill in a strange direction. As she passed, she realized that someone was slumped over the steering wheel. She pulled off the road, rushed to stand in front of the truck to stop it from going over the hill. She struggled to hold the truck, find her phone to dial 911 while trying to flag down other cars that zoomed by not stopping to help. Finally someone stopped, called 911, and put rocks under the tires to hold the vehicle. Kathy looked up and realized that in the truck was a long time friend and retired co-worker. Help arrived and the outcome was not what we all would wish for. But, Kathy was one of those people who did not drive on by and I feel that she should be recognized for this act.”
Peggy Naughton will receive the Businessperson of the Year honor. In her nomination Stacy Stanton stated, “Peggy Naughton has owned and operated the Johnson House since 1977. The cozy dining atmosphere combined with the quality meals offered keep the business thriving. The Johnson House is a staple in Churchville with the combination of meeting rooms, banquet facilities, the lounge and the dining area. Peg is a gracious host and an excellent business woman.”
The Civic Beautification Award is going to Brian Wilkins and Denise Haggerty of Wilkins RV. Nancy Steedman also provided this nomination. In her nomination she stated, “The southern gateway to the Village of Churchville has been improved by the demolition of an inefficient, older building and construction of the new Wilkins RV building with showroom, inside maintenance capabilities, offices and store. This redesign of the space at the entranceway to the village is pleasing to the eye and inviting to those shopping for recreational vehicles. The improvements were completed in a timely fashion and will look fantastic this spring as the landscaping comes to life. It was a major decision for Wilkins RV to remain in the Village of Churchville or move elsewhere. We are glad that they stayed as they continue to bring many visitors to our community. The end result is a business that brings many people to see what Churchville has to offer while they shop.”
Lastly, outgoing Chamber of Commerce President Sue Davis will also be recognized as the Member of the Year by the Greater Churchville-Riga Chamber of Commerce.
Tickets for the dinner cost $25 per person and may be purchased at the Riga Town offices, Churchville Village offices and Naughton’s Johnson House. The deadline to purchase tickets is Friday, March 3. No tickets will be available at the door.
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