The Chamber of Commerce Seeks Candidates for Nomination

for the 17 th Annual Crystal Apple Award

Hudson , NY – The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce is seeking candidates for nomination for the 17 th Annual Crystal Apple Award. This prestigious award is bestowed on a Chamber member business to recognize an extraordinary contribution to economic progress, community improvement, and the quality of life in Columbia County during 2005. All Chamber member businesses are eligible and candidate recommendations are due to the Chamber by close of business on January 13, 2006. Please click here for a nomination form.

The criteria for nominations is based on the following: significant improvement of community services, expanded educational opportunities, private investment, job creation, visible demonstration of confidence in the County's economic future, and distinguished involvement in Civic Affairs.

All properly submitted candidate recommendations will be reviewed by the Chamber Board of Directors, who will vote to create a slate of five official nominees. The ballot of official nominees is mailed to the Chamber membership for voting to determine the recipient of the 17 th Annual Crystal Apple Award.

The award itself is a stunning Steuben lead crystal apple mounted on a wooden base. The apple symbolizes Columbia County's simple beauty, agricultural heritage, and quality of life.

The recipient of this year's Crystal Apple will be announced at the Crystal Apple Award Gala on February 24, 2006 at Stair Galleries om Warren Street in Hudson. Contact the Chamber for more information or to make a reservation.

National Union Bank of Kinderhook, First Niagara Bank and Midhudsonmedia are Major Sponsors. Fingar Insurance and Taconic Farms, Inc. are Silver Sponsors. Chatham Properties, Connor, Curran & Schram, PC, Dunn Builders Supply and Germantown Telephone Company/Valstar, Inc. are Brass Sponsors.

The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, with its 850 members, is the leading voice of business in Columbia County, providing advocacy, promotional and benefit solutions for its members. Those seeking more information concerning the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and membership can contact the Chamber at (518) 828-4417 or visit the website at www.columbiachamber-ny.com.