The Freeport Chamber of Commerce held its 26th Annual Golf Classic, which celebrated the village’s local businesses, leaders and community, while honoring small business owner Frank Montana for his commitment to supporting the community.
The event was held on Sept. 24 at The Golf Club at Middle Bay in Oceanside, where chamber members gathered for a fun day of golfing. More than 60 members and guests took to the links and capped the day off by dining at the Coral House restaurant in Baldwin.
During the day of golfing, participants competed in teams of four to try and come up with the best scores over the 18-hole course. The winning foursome of chamber golfers were James Riecke, Matt Karp, a chamber director, Steve Sheehan and Nick Calandro.
Other available golf competitions included a closest to the pin challenge and men’s and women’s longest drive challenges.
Part of the dinner portion of the outing was spent celebrating Montana, who owns his family’s business, Montana Brothers Pizzeria and Restaurant, on Freeport’s South Main Street. Montana serves on the chamber’s board of directors and has been a consistent positive presence in Freeport through the chamber.
“He gives back to the committee,” Jacques Butler, the chamber's second vice president and Freeport village trustee, said. “That dedication of being at the forefront of leading small businesses (is the reason for the honor).”
Montana Brothers Pizzeria has been a staple in Freeport for about 30 years, with the family being initially drawn to the boating community and the Nautical Mile’s attractiveness.
The family business was founded when Montana was 10 years old in 1989. He moved to Freeport 15 years ago, when he took over the business, and has been actively involved in the chamber ever since.
Montana, who’s known and loved Freeport all his life, said he was honored that the chamber recognized him.
“Freeport’s a great town," he said. "It’s a great place to live in. Once you move here, it’s like family. Everybody is friends and helps each other out. That’s what makes it special.”
In an e-mailed message to chamber members, Theresa Phinn, the chamber's office manager, thanked attendees and said the event was indicative of the village’s own productivity and warm community.
“Events like this remind us what makes Freeport so special — the spirit of community, partnership and support that continues to bring us together,” Phinn wrote. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s Golf Classic memorable. Your continued support allows the Freeport Chamber of Commerce to strengthen our business community and continue serving the village we are so proud to call home.”
