The unusual yet delectable combination of civic leadership, gourmet chocolate and music will be celebrated in the “British Isles” setting of Tommy Nevin’s Pub tonight as the Evanston Chamber of Commerce hosts its 89th annual meeting and gala.
Lorraine Morton, who has just completed her fourth term as mayor of Evanston, will be presented with the Evanston Chamber’s annual Community Leadership Award; Robert and Fred Piron, owners of Belgian Chocolatier Piron, will receive the Small Businesspersons of the Year Award; and Bridget McDonough, founder and general manager of Light Opera Works, will accept the North Shore University Health Systems Public Service/Nonprofit Person of the Year Award.
“As a lifelong educator, administrator and elected official, Mayor Morton has shown by example that education is the essential foundation for achieving personal and business goals and for contributing to the betterment of society,” said Chamber executive director Jonathan Perman.
The brothers Piron, Mr. Perman said, “represent the qualities of creative entrepreneurship, professionalism, and they have given tremendous energy and leadership to the community. In their business, Belgian Chocolatier Piron, Bob and Fred have shown how to excel in a very competitive environment, which has resulted in growth and expansion. Beyond the workplace, Belgian Chocolatier Piron is extraordinarily active in civic activities, particularly the Main Street Merchants Association and the Evanston Chamber.”
Bridget McDonough, said Mr. Perman, is a story “worth singing about – coming to Evanston to study musical theatre at Northwestern University and emerging with an idea and love of theatre to start Light Opera Works. Under her skillful and creative leadership Light Opera Works has grown to become a major force in the regional arts scene and is now known throughout the area for its beautiful and colorful productions, innovative staging and both vocal and orchestral excellence.”
At the gala, guests can join their fellow chaps in “Evanstonshire,” where Irish and Scottish whisky tastings, darts, golf putting, dancers, bagpipers and great music will be among the unique and creative ways to enjoy the evening.
Call the Evanston Chamber, 847-328-1500, ext. 3, for more information.