The Riverhead Chamber of Commerce fêted businesses and individuals for their contributions to the local community last night at the organization’s annual awards dinner, held at the Inn and Spa at East Wind in Wading River.
The Blue Duck Bakery Cafe picked up the chamber’s business of the year award in recognition of the bakery’s success, the vision of owners Nancy and Keith Kouris and their “commitment to a better Riverhead.”
Honored for entrepreneurial achievement were Greg Martin and Dan Burke, co-founders of Long Ireland Beer Co., who began home brewing as a hobby in 2002, formed a business in 2008 and opened their Pulaski Street brewery and tasting room in 2010. They have since expanded their brewery twice and now sell their products in more than 500 locations across the state and in Connecticut.
Retiring L.I. Farm Bureau executive director Joseph Gergela received the chamber’s gold key award this year, in recognition of his 26 years of dedicated service to the island’s changing but still vibrant agricultural community.
Woodside Orchards in Aquebogue was honored with the 2014 agricultural achievement award to recognize the success of Bob Gammon Sr. and his family in turning Gammon’s “retirement project” in 1984 into a thriving apple orchard and hard cider producer.
Riverhead Town Hall receptionist Verna Campbell, retiring at the end of this month after 26 years in her post as “the face and voice of Riverhead Town Hall,” was presented with the spirit of Riverhead award “in recognition of her zest for life, the love in her heart and her infectious personality.”
The chamber’s lifetime achievement award went to Carl James, who served the Riverhead Central School District for 54 years, retiring as head custodian in June of this year. An inspiration to many in all walks of life, James was recognized for a lifetime of service, selflessness and exemplary work ethic.
The awards were presented by Riverhead Chamber of Commerce board members, president Tracy James, Bob Kern, Brian Curtin, David Bergen, Robert Bugdin and Patricia Snyder.
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