Pictured, are employees of Home Central, along with other guests. Home Central was selected as the Business of the Year at the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce Community Awards ceremony. (Photo by JoAnn R. Walter)
The Tioga County Chamber of Commerce “Spirit of Tioga” Community Awards were presented at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner Meeting on Feb. 15. Sponsored by M&T Bank, the event was held at the Owego Treadway Inn and Banquet Center.
The Chamber’s “Hats Off” theme recognized the achievements of all businesses and how they support Tioga County. In addition, special recognition was awarded to Chamber Members who have made a significant contribution to the community, and in turn promote the Chamber’s mission of supporting the economic and civic well being of Tioga County.
Chamber members nominated the award winners.
Participants enjoyed an evening of hors d’oeuvres, dinner, music and a silent auction, along with the award ceremony. A slide show highlighted how Chamber members support the local community throughout the year.
The 2018 recipients were; for the Business of the Year Award, Home Central in Owego, N.Y.; for the Nonprofit of the Year, Tioga United Way; and for Community Service, Nancy Eckstrom.
Carolyn Palladino, executive director of Tioga United Way, speaks to guests after being recognized as the Nonprofit of the Year. (Photo by JoAnn R. Walter)
Home Central, an Owego business since 1973, has grown significantly in its 45-year history and today operates three locations in Owego, Candor and Vestal. The business provides needed services and supplies, along with employment within the area. Home Central gives back by offering valuable contributions to the community, such as donations of building supplies and donations to other organizations and nonprofits.
Owner Aaron Gowan, in a video presented to guests, communicated that he is pleased Home Central has remained an integral part of Owego for a long time.
Kate Whittemore, president of Home Central, accepted the award and thanked the community, and shared, “Without you we wouldn’t be here for 45 years.”
Nancy Eckstrom was selected for the Community Service Award. Eckstrom has been instrumental as a volunteer with the Tioga County Hunger Task Force, the Owego Dog Owners Group, and is also a key contributor of the pilot program, Tiger Farm, within the Tioga Central School District.
Andrew Hafer, Community Services director of Tioga Opportunities, speaks to guests and accepted an award on behalf of Nancy Eckstrom, who was selected for an award for her community service. (Photo by JoAnn R. Walter)
Eckstrom was unable to attend the event. Andrew Hafer, Community Services director for Tioga Opportunities, accepted the award on her behalf and commented, “In my work I see a lot of community service in our County, and Nancy has shown a lot of volunteer hours and selflessness to make things happen.”
The Tioga United Way, which supports 34 agencies in the County, was presented with the Nonprofit of the Year Award.
Carolyn Palladino, executive director of the Tioga United Way, shared, “In preparing for tonight’s event, we realize many of you, either individually or businesses, support our organization,” adding, “You are the reason why we are receiving this award.”
Palladino also gave recognition to Zoe Ann Zielinski, an administrative assistant for the organization.
For more information about the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce, call (607) 687-2020, visit their website at www.tiogachamber.com, or find them on Facebook.
The Tioga Chamber will commemorate their 100th year of supporting businesses with a Gala Celebration on Feb. 16, 2019, and welcomes all to save the date!
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