\n The event will also include the annual chamber Great Escape Auction with over 150 auction items for sale at the event. \;
\n
\n 
\n \;Simmons Named Citizen of the Year
\n \;Grant Simmons\, III has been unanimously selected as The Chamber&rsquo\;s Citizen of the Year. \; The award was established in 1957 to recognize outstanding leadership and exceptional contributions to the community. \; Criteria considered in the selection process include leadership role in the community\, specific contributions in business and civic/non-profit organizations\, promoting the community image\, improving the quality of life in our area\, personal and professional characteristics including integrity\, creativity\, communication skills and broad social perspectives. Grant has served this community nobly and faithfully for many years \; &ldquo\;Grant is a man of outstanding community spirit\, generosity and concern for the well being of our citizens and the \; \;quality of life in our community. \; He has committed time and resources to the community and many different institutions and civic organizations. \; He is a true gentleman and he is very conscientious and passionate for his causes\,&rdquo\; said Chamber President Rudi Hauser. \; Chamber Executive Director Lisa Konicki\, along with Hauser surprised Simmons with the news as he was dining with the close friend who nominated him for this award\, Attorney Nicholas Moore. \; Simmons was caught off guard and humbled by the honor. \; Grant has served on the Board of the Watch Hill Conservancy for over 10 years. He has served as Chairman of the Watch Hill Fire District Park Commission for 5 years\, and the Watch Hill Chapel Society for 10 years. He \; has been on the Board of the Westerly Hospital Foundation for 1 year\, and he \; is one of 3 trustees for the Alfred Roberts Junior Charitable Foundation. \; He is an active member of the Chamber of Commerce through Simmons LLC\, and a supporter of \; \;the Chorus of Westerly. \; Grant and his lovely wife Donna are partners with Bluff Avenue LLC\, a community investment group that was formed in 2004 to preserve the Ocean House site as a hotel\, community asset and significant cornerstone of Westerly for generations to come.
\n
\n 
\n Tracey Wilson Wins Key Award
\n Tracey Wilson of GC2 Marketing Concepts will be honored at the Chamber&rsquo\;s Annual Dinner with the Key Award. \; This award is bestowed to someone who has made extraordinary contributions of time and talent to help The Chamber meet its mission over a span of many years. \; Tracey has chaired events\, volunteered at numerous events\, served 7 years on the Board\, recruited auction items\, sold raffle tickets\, served food at Brews &\; Blues\, lit hundreds of candles at the Holiday Strolls\, and much more.
\n &ldquo\;Tracey has been a real asset and a great friend to the Chamber for many years. \; Her energy and ideas are boundless and we are very grateful for her participation&rdquo\; said Lisa Konicki.
\n \; Invitations for the annual dinner will be mailed shortly. \; Seats are limited and the event sells out quickly each year\, so please register promptly.
\n
\n \; \; \;
\n
\n \;