Chamber Of Commerce Honors Westport "First Citizens"
Award recipients Charlie Haberstroh, Founder and CEO of CastleKeep Investment Advisors (L) and Bill Harmer, Executive Director of the Westport Library
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce honored Charlie Haberstroh, Founder and CEO of CastleKeep Investment Advisors, and Bill Harmer, Executive Director of the Westport Library who were this year’s First Citizen Award recipients. This was the return of the First Citizen Award gala dinner since the pandemic.
The event was attended by many notables including Senator Bluementhal, Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, First Selectwoman Jen Tooker, former First Selectman Jim Marpe, former Second Selectman Avi Kaner, State Senator Cici Maher, State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, Weston First Selectwoman Samantha Nestor and other leading citizens.
Above: Bill Harmer with his family, and Charlie Haberstroh with his family
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery
“We have selected a fine and admirable mix of awardees this year,” said Matthew Mandell, Executive Director of the Chamber. “Each year the board looks for one nonprofit and one traditional businessperson and these dedicated individuals stood out and represent what is best in our town for their work ethic, generosity and how they approach business.”
“It is a distinct honor to be recognized by a community that has given my family so much since we moved here in 1990. Whether it's long nights on the baseball fields, picturesque sunsets at Compo Beach or digging out of the sand hazards at the Longshore golf course, I cherish the many memories and experiences in Westport,” said Charlie Haberstroh. Since I founded my investment advisory firm, 2000, I've also had the privilege of giving back to the community through public service. I was inspired to do so by my wife and by Bill Meyer who also inspired many who continue to serve Westport.”
“I am deeply humbled and moved by this recognition by my friends at the Chamber of Commerce for frankly doing work that I absolutely love and am extremely passionate about,” said Bill Harmer. “Thanks also to my staff and our Board of Trustees who consistently support our vision and allow me to be a part of this magnificent place we call Westport and the Westport Library.”
The keynote speaker this year will be Richard Blumenthal, Senior U.S. Senator from the State of Connecticut, having previously served as the State’s Attorney General.
Also receiving awards will be four “Young Entrepreneurs,” Marley Brown, Akhila Kooma, Addison Moore and Jamie Semaya seniors from Weston and Staples High Schools, for their efforts in creating new and intriguing business ventures.
“What a wonderful group of innovative kids, they truly embody the entrepreneurial spirit,” said Barbara Reynolds Chairman of the Board of the Chamber. “They have executed at a higher level and deserve these accolades. Congratulations to all.”
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.