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Chamber Communique: A time to honor our community Past presidents of the Ashland Chamber of Commerce gathered for their annual "team photo." Tuesday Oct 11, 2016 at 2:00 AM Oct 11, 2016 at 2:09 PM By Sandra Slattery Ashland Chamber of Commerce Each year, the Ashland Chamber of Commerce honors individuals and businesses who contribute their time and resources to improve our economy and community throughout the previous year. On Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016, the Ashland Chamber celebrated its 110th annual dinner at the Historic Ashland Armory with approximately 250 people in attendance.  Chamber Board President Marie Donovan of Ashland Homes Real Estate served as master of ceremonies as she accepted a second term as president. The dinner was a reflection on the accomplishments of our community and to thank those who have worked to make them happen. The relationships the chamber has with businesses, organizations and governments are strong and it is why we can engage in so many areas that benefit the greater community. It is why we can collaborate on programs of economic development, tourism promotion, produce hallmark community events and it’s why people are so engaged and invested. The economy and our businesses drive innovation, provide employment and create a platform for community success. These businesses are at the forefront of generating new products and services that expand our opportunities, strengthen our core economy through wages, taxes and donations they give back to the community. The following businesses were recognized in the industry awards segment of the evening for their innovation and leadership in their respective industries: • Ashland Culinary Festival Top Chef 2015: Josh Dorcak — Josh’s incredible talent impressed all three chefs at last fall’s event, earning him the top chef award. This year Josh will defend his title Nov. 3-6 at Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites. • Green Business of the Year: Paddington Station — Paddington Station and co-owners Pam Hammond Morris and Don Hammond are leaders in the retail industry in Ashland. They take extensive measures in their Green Best Practices from complex recycling to a packaging share program with small local manufacturers. • Retail Business of the Year: Nimbus — Celebrating 45 years in 2016, they provide unique product offerings unavailable elsewhere in Ashland. Owner Ken Silverman is a longtime supporter of local artists and was on the team to help create the Festival of Light celebration 24 years ago. • Service Business of the Year: Reinholdt & O’Harra — Reinholdt & O’Harra is one of Ashland’s oldest companies close to celebrating 80 years in business. Current co-owner Greg White is very involved in youth activities and an avid supporter of local business. • Manufacturing Business of the Year: Darex — Darex has been recognized two consecutive years as a top 100 company to work for in Oregon. They are experiencing expansive growth both in employment and physical space. A fourth-generation owned company, they are proud of their quality, American-made products. Matthew Bernard, president, accepted the award for the company. Ashland is filled with caring, dedicated and hard-working individuals who work together for the greater good of community. The following individuals were recognized for their enormous contributions: • Greeter of the Year: Gary Einhorn — Gary, a local business consultant, takes pride in his membership and provides constant encouragement and support to fellow members as a weekly attendee of the networking Greeters meetings. • Chamber Volunteer of the Year: Maynard Telpner — Maynard is well-loved at the office for his intelligence, humor and kind demeanor. He is one of those unforgettable individuals you meet who continues to surprise you with some little bit of insight or witty remark that will brighten your day. He has made significant contributions to society throughout his life • Community Volunteer of the Year: Both Ashland Rotary Clubs — The two Rotary Clubs in Ashland are celebrating combined 100 years of Rotary in Ashland. They embody Service Above Self in their community projects, scholarship awards and international service. • Citizen of the Year: Peter Buckley — Representative Peter Buckley was honored for his years of service in the Oregon Legislature, for his partnership with the chamber and for all he has done for our region. • Honorary Life Member: Alex Amarotico — Alex has served as vice president and legislative chair for the Ashland Chamber of Commerce and served six years on the Ashland Chamber Board. He has facilitated community issues forums, legislative forums and our legislative hotlines. Finally, gratitude was given to chamber volunteers, board and committee members, past presidents, civic, government and organizational leaders who daily work to improve our community. Sandra Slattery is executive director of the Ashland Chamber of Commerce. For more information, go to www.ashlandchamber.com, call 541-482-3486 or stop by the office at 110 East Main St.