The 56th Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet was held at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races last Wednesday. The event recognized many new business members of the local Chamber as well as some who have expanded over the past year. There were 22 new businesses as well as 19 existing or expanding businesses who joined the ranks of Chamber membership this year.

The Chamber also took the opportunity Wednesday evening to present the George E. Vickers Business Award to the Bavarian Inn. A brief history of the Inn, which was opened by Carol and Irwin Asam, was given as sons David and Christian Asam accepted the award.

At the time the Inn opened, it boasted a 15-table restaurant and had five employees. Now the Inn houses four dining rooms, 72 hotel rooms and a conference center employing 100 people The business has consistently received the AAA four-diamond rating for several years.

The entire Asam family was on hand to accept the prestigious award.

Also receiving an award at the banquet was Dr. Mark Cucuzzella. Cucuzzella was presented with the Jefferson County Distinguished Citizen award.

Sponsored by the Spirit of Jefferson newspaper, the award is given yearly to a nominated citizen for exemplary community service.

Cucuzzella’s dedication to health, fitness and education were touted during the presentation. He organizes the annual Freedom’s Run race held in Harpers Ferry and Shepherdstown each fall, works with local schools and parks to promote physical activity and outdoor education and hosts running workshops throughout the region.

Cucuzzella said runners from 45 states have participated in Freedom’s Run, so he tries to plan a course that will showcase Jefferson County’s history and scenic beauty.

The Chamber took the opportunity Wednesday to present the Allen R. Marshall Award to former Chamber president Tiffany Hine. The award is one of highest honor with the Chamber and is rarely presented.

Andrew Skinner, outgoing president, imparted words of praise for Hine’s dedication to the Chamber and all that she has contributed. Hine, who had made a drive back from Morgantown specifically because she had been asked to do something for the evening’s event. She was totally surprised by the award.

New officers for the Chamber were announced at the banquet as Skinner passed the torch of leadership to incoming President Amy Panzarella.