2024 Fountain Hills Chamber Gala Awards is ‘70s inspired
Nominees announced for 2024 ballot
Posted 3/14/24
In commemoration of the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce 50th anniversary, the public is invited to celebrate the community at the 2024 Chamber Gala Awards (CGA) with the theme of …
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Community Engagement
2024 Fountain Hills Chamber Gala Awards is ‘70s inspired
Nominees announced for 2024 ballot
Times Independent file photo
The Fountain Hills Chamber Gala recognizes local business owners, employees, nonprofits and volunteers in Fountain Hills. Pictured is Chamber President Betsy LaVoie (left) with Michael Bennett, Young Professional of the Year in 2023.
Posted
Want to vote?
Visit fhchamber.com/2024-gala-nominees to learn more about each nominee and vote through April 21.
In commemoration of the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce 50th anniversary, the public is invited to celebrate the community at the 2024 Chamber Gala Awards (CGA) with the theme of “Studio74,” a retro glamour party where participants are invited to show off their best 1970s-inspired formal attire.
For decades, the Chamber has shone a spotlight on business owners, employees, nonprofits and volunteers in Fountain Hills who display hard work, determination, innovation and positive community engagement, a press release read.
Each year, the Chamber gathers to celebrate the CGA nominees’ tireless efforts in shaping the community into the best town to work, live and play, the release added.
Betsy LaVoie, Chamber CEO and president states, “We cherish the chance to recognize and honor the exceptional workforce, business owners, organizations and volunteers in Fountain Hills.
“The Chamber Gala Awards shine a spotlight on the remarkable talent, dedication and passion present throughout our community, fostering meaningful connections and inspiring local business and nonprofit relationships.”
In keeping with tradition, the recipients of last year’s CGA award will have the honor of presenting this year’s award in their category during the Studio74 celebration, the release said, adding that it is not just about handing out awards – it’s about bringing the community together.
Beyond merely recognizing outstanding businesses, individuals and organizations, the Chamber Gala Awards fosters unity and cohesion within the Fountain Hills community, the release continued.
Chamber Vice President Tammy Bell explains, “We’re purposeful about the Chamber Gala Awards, creating a chance for meaningful celebration and community engagement.
“By involving our members and residents—from the nominations and voting process to the reveal and celebration at the Gala—we offer the chance to honor those who’ve inspired us or enhanced our quality of life in Fountain Hills.”
Nominees announced
After receiving hundreds of nominations, the Fountain Hills Chamber has announced the Studio74 CGA Nominees.
Business Person of the Year: Lisa Berry, Chill Boutique; Karen DeGeorge, DeGeorge Partners - Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty; Mike Jones, Discount Air Care; and Bart Shea, Shea Connelly Development.
New Entrepreneur of the Year: Lisa Berry, Chill Boutique and Chill Out; Joanne Colella, Colella Communications; and Jon Davies, D4ward.
Young Professional of the Year: Casey and Caleb Badder, Fountain Hills Physical Therapy; Nevaeh Carranza and Obediah Carranza, Zero Reasons Band; and Cheryl Ferry, Bella Luna Loft.
Nonprofit of the Year: Fearless Kitty Rescue; Fountain Hills Women’s Club; Kiwanis Club of Fountain Hills (Noon Kiwanis); and River of Time Museum & Exploration Center.
Educator of the Year: Kryssie Beard, Fountain Hills Middle School; Sam Brooks, McDowell Mountain Elementary; Dr. Cain Jagodzinski, Fountain Hills Unified School District; and Mary McDonald, Fountain Hills Middle School.
Community Volunteer of the Year: Todd Harris; Gina Waldo; Geoff Yazzetta; and Gary Zauner.
Restaurant of the Year: El Encanto de la Fuente, Christine Nelson; Phil’s Filling Station, Phil Rodakis; and Saddle Bronc, Barb and Brad Tesch.
Retailer of the Year: Beauty Box, Misty Watkins; Grapeables, Jo and Bill McKellips; Sami Fine Jewelry, Stephenie Bjorkman; and The Box Meat Shop, Karen and Luis Pozzolo.
Finance and Insurance Business of the Year: Robin Brand, HomeGuard Home Warranty; Mike Pameditis, Edward Jones; and Don Rice, AZ Insurance Guy.
Health Services of the Year: Dr. Elizabeth Diamond, Priority Hearing and Tinnitus; Skye Fitzkee, The Skye Studio; FountainView Village; and Debbie Romano, Fountain Hills Healthy Heartbeats.
Customer Service of the Year: Steffnie Beck, Fountain Hills Middle School; Ellie Mackay, Aesthetic Elegance and Wellness; Brenda McCarty, Mary Kay Cosmetics; Ursula Partington; and Classy Jazzy Fashion Boutique.
