Merrick chamber honors its own, local volunteers

Members of the Merrick Chamber of Commerce celebrated in style at Chateau Briand in Carle Place on Thursday night as the business group installed its new president and Board of Directors, as well as honored its Man and Woman of the Year.

Randy Shotland was named the Merrick chamber’s president. He succeeds Margaret Mueller.

The Executive Board includes Ira Reiter and Susan Helsinger, vice presidents; Ellen Firer, secretary; and Maria DeJesus, treasurer.

The Board of Directors comprises Margaret Biegelman, Richard Dasch, Ilene Dixel, Jessica Dixel, Erin Donohue, Timothy Feldis, Marian Fraker-Gutin, Arlene Gregory, Fran Guercio, Kevin Hoffman, Carmela Lage, Julie Marchesella, Douglas Mills, Andrew Nachamie, Cathy O’Malley, Jay Pitti, Elaine Spiro, Barbara Traugot and Salvatore Vassallo.

The Man of the Year is Lenny Heide, a well-respected custodian at Calhoun High School who often volunteers his time to help students there. The Woman of the Year is Erin Donohue, an editor, web designer and longtime community volunteer.

Doug Mills, a chamber past president, served as the evening's emcee.

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