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A veteran local news publisher, police department detective, long established restaurateurs, and local VFW leader are among the recipients of this year’s Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce Carousel Awards.

“This year’s nominees represent the very heart of Asbury Park,” Chamber President, Nikki Ouellette said in a written statement. “Entrepreneurs who’ve helped to rebuild the community, law enforcement, veterans, volunteers, residents and icons who have shown us that success knows no boundaries in our city when we work together.”

The Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit, membership-based organization that works in support of the city’s business community. Aside from advocacy at the state, county and local levels, the Chamber administers marketing campaigns and consumer events in support of local tourism and economic development.

The 2017 AP Chamber Carousel Awards Gala is themed “Havana Nights,” bringing a latin flare to Asbury Park’s party of the year, organizers said.

“The Havana Nights theme, is particularly appealing to me given my own Cuban heritage,” Chamber president Sylvia Sylvia-Cioffi said. “But, the honor of being able to acknowledge these esteemed pillars of the community, simply leaves me feeling thankful to be a part of the Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce family.”

The awards given at the annual fundraising event honors those who exemplify the dedication, loyalty, and vision that it takes to build a better future in Asbury Park, and to have fun doing it, organizers said.

The 2017 Honorees are:

German Garcia (Plaza Tapatia) – Economic Development Award

Ellen Carroll (The Coaster) – Spirit of Asbury Park Award

Brando’s Citi Cucina  – Landmark Business Award

Detective Eugene Dello  – Public Official Award

Commander Frank Brogna (V.F.W. Harold Daley Post 1333) – Humanitarian Award

The black-tie gala will be held 6 p.m. May 5 at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, located at 1401 Ocean Ave. The celebration features dinner by Falco’s Catering, dancing and special performances. Tickets are $150, available via 732-775-7676 or info@asburyparkchamber.com.  

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The Asbury Park Sun is affiliated with the triCityNews newspaper.

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