Wintersköl kicks off, Chamber presents business awards
Jeremy Wallace/The Aspen Times |
The annual Aspen Chamber Resort Association Businesses (ACRA) of the Year Awards were presented to two local businesses at the 2016 Helen K. Klanderud Wintersköl Dinner and Celebration held at the St. Regis Hotel Aspen on Wednesday.
The 2015 Business of the Year was presented to Aspen Expeditions Worldwide (AEW). The ACRA Business of the Year is awarded to the business that has shown profitability, growth and sustainability along with a commitment to community service.
The 2015 Non-Profit of the Year was presented to Habitat for Humanity. The ACRA Non-Profit of the Year is awarded to the local nonprofit organization that has developed a close partnership with the Roaring Fork Valley community as a means to achieve its mission.
The 2015 Molly Campbell Service Award was presented to Kathryn Koch who was recognized for her for her passion, dedication and leadership to the Aspen community. Koch volunteers her time by sitting on numerous community and citizen boards.
Defy Ordinary Awards are presented to individuals for their outstanding passion, leadership, and commitment to the Aspen community. This year’s recipients are Bill Tomcich, Chuck Frias and Christine Benedetti.
Bill Tomcich, President of Stay Aspen Snowmass, is the community liaison to the airline industry, and is instrumental in securing air service into Aspen.
Chuck Frias, owner of the eponymous Frias Properties, has been active in all facets of Aspen real estate brokerage, management and development.
Christine Benedetti is marketing director for the Aspen Historical Society, a freelance writer, and Arts & Entertainment Editor for the Aspen Daily News. She serves on the boards for the Wheeler Opera House, Jazz Aspen Snowmass’ The Band, and the Next Generation Advisory Commission.
