The Greater Rostraver Chamber of Commerce celebrated the 37th year of recognizing an outstanding individual and/or business in the community. The special event was held at the Willow Room in Rostraver Twp. on April 26, 2012. With over 100 guests in attendance, GRC President Keith Peer served as the Master of Ceremonies. The recognition stepped into a new direction this year and expanded their recognition by honoring 3 different categories. The honorees were Martin’s Flowers & Shrubs as Business of the Year, Robert Mesher for the Community Service Award and Tanya Chaney as The Young Professional of the Year.
The selection of the Business of the year uses the criteria of outstanding community support, involvement and leadership. A business that represents the Martin family for 45 years, Martin’s Flowers & Shrubs is very well known in the Tri State area and is operated by a second generation. Current owners are Mark, Adam and Brad Martin. Accepting the honor as founder of the business, George Martin, spoke of the many struggles and achievements. He spoke direct from the heart and credited the family as a whole. He made invitation to all to stop in and enjoy the waterfalls or feed the fish. “With so much to see and appreciate, browsers are always welcomed!”
One of the new categories this year was Outstanding Community Service. The Chamber has many volunteers in all walks of life but selecting the first recipient was easy. Robert (Bob) Mesher has been involved in many organizations but most notably the Belle Vernon Lions. Jason Mesher spoke of his father’s achievements with great pride and admiration. Year after year Bob volunteers his time for the Christmas Celebration known as Lite Up Nite in Rostraver Twp. Many times he has served as a grand and jolly Santa. His biggest achievement and enjoyment is working with young people and guiding them into leadership and a life of service. Bob then proudly shared how his entire family is part of a wonderful organization known to all as the Lions. “Down to my granddaughter Avery, she is a Lioness in the making”. Bob too makes invitation to all, “If you have an extra hour or so a month, think about joining the Lions and the reward will be great”.
The final category, also new this year, was The Young Professional of the Year. Tanya Chaney was an easy selection to receive this award. Speaking for Tanya was her close friend, Tracy Hawkins. She shared how Tanya worked to build a private massage practice, first from her home, that later transformed into the Chaney’s Natural Health. Tanya had attained her national certification as a Trigger Point Therapist in the summer of 2001. She is one of less than 200 therapists nationally to hold this certification. As a young mother, Tanya finds the time to juggle her responsibilities and enjoyment of family along with fundraising, committees, board meetings and her daily business of Chaney’s Naturals. She too credits her success to family, an amazingly supportive husband, great staff and friends.
The room was filled with pride, tears and laughter. Each of the honorees carry qualities that make them excel at achieving their goals. The qualities that set them apart from others are determination and drive.
Special recognition to the following: Keith Peer, GRC President, as Master of Ceremonies, Rep. Ted Harhai for the pledge of Allegiance, Tom Mimidis for the Invocation, Pat Alberts, Mon Valley Hospital and GRC Executive Board and his assistant Maureen Dimitroff for the invitations and Jennifer Codeluppi of Snapshot 47 for the event photography. I extend special thank you to Martin’s Flowers for the beautiful transformation of the lobby with flowers and décor, to Kim Redman, GRC executive board and The Willow Room for a “detailed to perfection” dinner. With deep gratitude I acknowledge the commitment and assistance of the GRC Director, Gina Lynn. Everyone’s help was greatly appreciated and definitely contributed to a wonderful evening.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Esther Antal
GRC Executive Board
The GRC extends sincere appreciation and thanks to Recognition Dinner Chairperson, Mary Esther Antal. Her dedication to this annual event goes above and beyond. We are indebted to her for the commitment and organization she provides in making this a truly wonderful evening of recognition and celebration. Thank you, Mary Esther!
