Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce hosts its 74th annual membership dinner

GOSHEN — The Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce held its 74th annual membership dinner, themed “A Night at The Masquerade,” on Friday, Nov. 1, at Palacio Catering & Conference Center in Goshen.

Approximately 100 members and guests attended.

Shortly after the cocktail hour Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Michael Johndrow, who described his organization as “The biggest little chamber in Orange County,” introduced guests, including Town of Warwick Supervisor Michael Sweeton, Mayor Michael Newhard and Orange County Chamber of Commerce President Dr. John D’Ambrosio.

Chamber events attract 1,200
Chamber President Paul Rafanello also welcomed everyone and in his address reported that during the year, members had an opportunity to meet and exchange business cards with approximately 1,200 people who had attended chamber mixers and networking events.

Those nominated to the Board of Directors along with second term nominations were then introduced and approved by the members.

After dinner, Johndrow gave his traditional “State of the Chamber” address.

He described innovations and improvements to what he termed a modernized chamber.

“We are also excited that our tourism package is showing good results,” said Johndrow who reported that the Sugar Loaf Chamber had come on board to join with the Warwick Chamber in its tourism initiative.

Annual awards
Later that evening Johndrow, joined by Sweeton and Newhard, presented the annual chamber awards.

Vicky Garby of Zero Deals received the award for “Volunteer of the Year.”

A “Best Building Renovation” award was presented to G’s Restaurant co-owner Joann Kim.

Representatives of Laura’s Sweets, a Sugar Loaf business which also won a “Best Building Renovation” award, were not present.

- Roger Gavan