Pictured, from left, are Blake Tarana, owner of Tim Hortons in Jamestown and Olean and recipient of the restaurant of the year award, Chuck DeAngelo, Fessenden, Laumer & DeAngelo and recipient of the pride of Jamestown Award, Michael Laurin, Everyday’s True Value and recipient of the retailer of the year award, Carrie Swanson, Jamestown Community Chamber Coordinator, Michael Bird, Publisher of The Post-Journal and recipient of the legacy award, Daniel Heitzenrater, Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, Marshall Zinc, from D & S Glass and recipient of the business of the year award, Heather and Russ Spunaugle, from Southern Sails Junk Removal and recipient of the new business of the year award, and Vicki McGraw, chair of the Jamestown Community Chamber Committee. Submitted photo

The Jamestown Community Chamber of Commerce held its “Salute to the Finest” event Monday at Northwest Arena.

Monday’s event featured awards presented by the Jamestown Community Chamber of Commerce for new business of the year, retailer of the year, restaurant of the year, the legacy award, the service to humanity award, business of year and the pride of Jamestown award.

Dan Heitzenrater, president and CEO of the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce, told The Post-Journal that the annual Salute to the Finest event is about recognizing the “great work” of local businesses that “positively impact” the Jamestown community.

“Small business owners are often so focused on their daily operations and serving customers, that their accomplishments are overlooked,” he said. “It is important for the Chamber of Commerce to give recognition to businesses and community leaders who exceptionally serve and give back to our community.”

This year, Southern Sails Junk Removal was awarded as the new business of the year in Jamestown, Tim Hortons of Jamestown and Olean was awarded restaurant of the year, Everyday’s True Value was awarded retailer of the year and D&S Glass Service was awarded business of the year.

The service to humanity award was presented to Patrick Smeraldo, the pride of Jamestown award was presented to Chuck DeAngelo and the legacy award was presented to The Post-Journal.

Heitzenrater explained that each year the Jamestown Community Chamber Committee considers a “handful” of new businesses and people to award. He added that the chamber gives careful thought and consideration for each award by reflecting on previous categories and awardees.

“This year’s winners were particularly focused on their impact to the community overall, which was underscored in the remarks throughout the evening,” he said. “Salute to the Finest is an opportunity to recognize and thank those doing good in our business community. As you shop and dine in the Jamestown area, you’ll sometimes find a plaque proudly displayed on the wall noting the business as a past Salute to the Finest Awardee. Please join us in thanking these business owners and team members for their excellence.”