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Stillwater, MN – The Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Foundation (Chamber Foundation) and community business members gathered together on Friday evening, March 3rd, at the JX Event Center for the 7th annual Chamber Gala & Community Award Celebration. The Gala is the Chamber Foundation’s annual fundraising event to celebrate and acknowledge businesses and the community.
“This event is designed to bring the community together to celebrate each other and recognize all the hard work and dedication of so many,” stated Chamber President, Robin Anthony.
The event’s theme was Northern Lights, a fitting theme for this time of year in Minnesota with the Northern Lights showing off in the skies! The theme was felt throughout the event with beautiful decor in rich colors with accented uplighting. A Northern Lights backdrop greeted guests upon arrival and provided a beautiful photo backdrop.
During the social hour, David Gerald Sutton wowed the crowd with unique music utilizing a looper pedal and a five-string violin to become a One-Man Orchestra. Guests enjoyed cocktails, passed appetizers and a buffet featuring a large variety of delicious offerings by Bella Vida Catering.
The evening’s program kicked off with a Welcome from Chamber Foundation President, Robin Anthony, followed by a Live Auction and Fund a Passion led by Miss Shannan Paul, the evening’s emcee and auctioneer, who created a lively bidding war for seven live auction items featuring local favorites: Ultimate date night in Stillwater; Golf Par-Tee; Boat Rides on the River; Luxury Limo Ride Party and an In Home Chef Experience!
A highlight of the evening is awarding the winners of the Community Awards. The evening’s emcee, Miss Shannon Paul, introduced each nominee and announced the winner in each category. President Anthony presented each winner with an award and Congratulations.
And the Winners are:
Chamber Ambassador of the Year: Mandee Puente, Agent M Insurance
Non-Profit of the Year: Hometown Hero Outdoors
Behind the Badge: Brandon Crosbie, Stillwater Police Department
Community Volunteer of the Year: Chad Junker, Invision Services, LLC
Educator of the Year: Eileen Douglass, Chesterton Academy of the St. Croix Valley
Large Business of the Year: O’Neill Electric Inc.
Small Business of the Year: Dance and Entertainment Studios
Service with a Smalley Hospitality Award: The Lumberjack/Mad Capper Saloon & Eatery
FIND complete list of all nominees HERE! For more information contact the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce, (651) 439-4001
Photography by Rachel DesJardins Photography
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