Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce Invites Community to 2025 Beacon Awards Celebration

CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND, VA - [May 16, 2025] - The Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce cordially invites the community to attend its inaugural Beacon Awards to be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, beginning at 5pm at The Chincoteague Center, 6155 Community Drive. The evening will build on the legacy of the Chamber's Annual Awards event to honor those shining a light on leadership and excellence in our community. Attendees will enjoy catered light fare and desserts by Channel Bass Inn and a cash bar with signature drink.


In 1990, the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce introduced the Leonard 'Buddy' Burton Outstanding Business Person and John White Shields Outstanding Citizen awards at their Annual Awards event. Since that time, seventy-six (76) esteemed members of our community have been honored. In addition, each year the Chamber presents the Nicki L. West Memorial Scholarship to a deserving Chincoteague High School senior. These recognitions are the Chamber's cornerstone awards and will continue to be an integral part of this event as Annual Achievement Awards.


While honoring the past, the Beacon Awards also include new Community Impact Awards presented to individuals and organizations who have made and are making significant contributions to the growth and success of our community. These awards include Best Initiative, Educator of the Year, and Emerging Business.


The Community Impact Award finalists were selected by committee with the winners determined through online voting which resulted in over 400 votes being cast. The strong turnout reflects the community’s enthusiasm for recognizing local initiatives and individuals that make a meaningful difference.


The event will also honor long-standing businesses who have been in operation for at least 50 years, whose enduring presence and commitment have shaped the foundation of our community, celebrating their legacy of excellence, resilience, and service through the years.


As we celebrate this year’s event, we warmly invite all past winners to join us once again. Your achievements continue to inspire new generations, and your presence adds depth and legacy to our gathering. Whether you won in recent years or in decades past, we hope you will return to reconnect, share your journey, and help us honor the continued tradition of excellence.


Event Details:

📅 Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025

🕕 Time: 5pm

📍 Location: Chincoteague Center, 6155 Community Drive, Chincoteague Island, VA

💼 Dress Code: Business Casual


An RSVP is required for planning purposes no later than noon on Monday, June 2 to director@chincoteaguechamber.com or 757-336-6161. We look forward to you joining us on for an evening that promises to inspire, celebrate, and connect!

Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce  6733 Maddox Boulevard  Chincoteague, VA 23336
www.chincoteaguechamber.com

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About Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce & Certified Visitor Center

The Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce is an organization whereby many different business interests have joined together in a combined manner to maximize their ability to attract and increase the number of visitors to Chincoteague Island. The ultimate goal of the organization is to communicate the message that Chincoteague, the “Beautiful Land Across the Water,” is the most desirable location to visit and/or vacation with family or friends.


The Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce & Certified Visitor Center is the official Destination Marketing Organization for the Town of Chincoteague as recognized by Virginia Tourism Corporation.


Media Contact:

Name: Joanne Moore

Title: Executive Director

Website: ChincoteagueChamber.com

Phone: 757-336-6161

Email address: director@chincoteaguechamber.com

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