Granby Chamber presents annual awards

By Tracy Cavacuti

The Granby Chamber of Commerce held its annual banquet and awards presentation on March 5, 2017, at Brignole Vineyards in East Granby. John French opened up the evening speaking about the previous and upcoming year. He touched on a bigger and better-than-ever Celebrate Granby event for 2017. President and CEO of Windsor Federal Savings George Hermann served as guest speaker. Herman gave an excellent and informative speech covering everything from the current and future lending rates to the challenges of owning a business in Connecticut. He gave sobering advice to business owners to be mindful of upcoming changes due to the state’s economic climate. Chamber President Mary Anne Guarco presented awards to this year’s recipients. Businessman of the year, Carmine Pandolfi was honored for his 40 years of ownership of Granby Package Store.

Jennifer Hart Abalan was presented with the Humanitarian Award, and she accepted it with a heartfelt speech and gracious appreciation. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Service award to Michael Guarco, Sr. Mary Anne Guarco gave a wonderful introduction for her father’s award and everyone listened as Mike Sr. reminisced about a Granby 60 years ago and how they solved problems at that time. He also thanked his State Line Oil customers for the success of the family businesses. He received a standing ovation.
The evening closed with the presentation of New Business of the Year awards going to Eaton Eye Care and Anytime Fitness. There was great food by Karen’s Katering, great wine by Brignole Vineyards and a great time was had by all.