By Morgan Pilz, Staff Writer

(Feb. 20, 2020) The Berlin Chamber of Commerce recognized businesses and individuals during its annual Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet at the Atlantic Hotel in Berlin last Wednesday.

By Morgan Pilz
Former Victorian Charm owner Debbie Frene is announced the inaugural recipient of the Berlin Anchor Award, presented by her husband and president of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, Steve, during the awards banquet at the Atlantic Hotel in Berlin on Wednesday, Feb. 12

The awards banquet was held by owner John Fager, who praised the Chamber of Commerce for its work in keeping Berlin the “Coolest Small Town in America.”

“Berlin has been so successful,” Fager said. “We’ve got to look at the big picture and see how the chamber has made it this far. [The chamber] deserves a lot of credit … it had its ups and downs, but now we’re the caretakers of Berlin. I care about Berlin and I am proud to be a part of it.”

Five awards were given to volunteers and businesses from the town. Of those awards, a new one was introduced called the Berlin Anchor Award. This award was created to honor businesses that have become a landmark for visitors and is considered a key representation of the Berlin brand.

“[The] recipient has created and sustained many jobs over the years for local families and donated thousands of dollars to local charities, not to mention the generous donation of thousands of dollars to sponsor chamber events over the years,” President Steve Frene said. “This person has served on the board of directors as chamber president and chaired many events.”

The award was presented to Debbie Frene, former owner of Victorian Charm and Frene’s wife.

“I love Berlin,” Debbie said. “I will always be here and I will always support Berlin.”

She also received citations from the governor’s office and the Maryland Senate from Sen. Mary Beth Carozza.

The award recipients were:

Tom Sholtis – Volunteer of the Year

Action Island Screen Printing – Chamber Partner of the Year

Titan Fitness – Emerging Business of the Year

Jess Hall – Bright Idea Award