From left are Audrey Ralston, owner of the Chautauqua Soap Company; Pam and David Pelow, owners of Lafayette Corners; Chris Smith and Aaron Olson of JMI Inc.; Sam Lisciandro of The Pub; Ryan Fitzpatrick, owner of Ryan’s Phil & Cindy’s Lunch; Mike Roberts, winner of the Service to Humanity award; and Vicki McGraw, committee chairwoman of the Salute to the Finest banquet hosted by the Jamestown Area Chamber of Commerce. Submitted Photo

Michael Roberts was in good company when he received the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce Service to Humanity award this week from the Jamestown committee.

That’s what happens when you support the community as Roberts has.

“I have connections, friendships and know at least one person associated with all the awards given out tonight,” Roberts said. “My furniture is stocked with items from Lafayette Corner’s, and when you get back in town where do you go for a drink and meal? You go to The Pub. While I haven’t used or bought from the Chautauqua Soap Company, you bet I will now. I’m proud to call this my home.”

In addition to Roberts, the chamber presented several awards Monday during its Salute to the Finest banquet at the DoubleTree Hotel, including:

– Rising Business of the Year, Chautauqua Soap Co.,

– Restaurant of the Year, Ryan’s Phil & Cindy’s Lunch,

– Retailer of the Year, Lafayette Corners,

– Legacy Award, Chautauqua Patrons Insurance,

– Pride of Jamestown, The Pub, and

– Business of the Year, JMI. Inc..

Each business was represented by a leader or group of employees and family members who at times highlighted their offerings or services during the ceremony

“This is such an honor,” said Sam Lisciandro of The Pub. “We opened in 1965 and we’re still going strong.”

Brian Willink, the executive vice-president of marketing for Chautauqua Patrons Insurance Company, also spoke briefly.

“We’ve been in operation since 1877. We’ve had ups and downs, but we’re proud to provide products and services and underwriting for our more than 200 plus, N.Y. agents we work with,” he said.

Before moving on to Monday’s City Council meeting, City Councilman Bill Reynolds, R-Ward 5, spoke about the group of businesses and area residents being honored by the chamber.

“This is an impressive gathering,” Reynolds said. “This is an eclectic group of individuals and businesses who make Jamestown such a great place. I believe our best days are still yet to come. The spirit of entrepreneurship is alive and well here.”