Hilton hosts celebration: After 5 continues a 25 year tradition

Jodi Pree

Correspondent

On Wednesday the Marco Island Chamber of Commerce held their final After 5 event of 2017. Islanders decked out in festive outfits were treated to the Marco Hilton’s beautiful venue, excellent service and an expansive buffet. The event offered one last opportunity in 2017 for the community’s business owners, politicians, volunteers, and city officials to mingle. DJ Steve Reynolds kept the party rolling with upbeat holiday classics.

Hilton staff, from left, front: Karin Hiratsuka, Bob Marcil and Marie Villareal; back: Ozgur Ozbek, Andrew Neubauer and Ray Bopf.

“This is our 25th year having the Marco Hilton host our Holiday After 5. It’s really something special, especially this year. We are honored that we were able to keep this long-standing tradition,” remarks Dianna Dohm, Chamber executive director.

Cathy Mendygraw and Donna Niemczyk check in the guests for the event.

Near the event’s conclusion, Chamber President Alex Parker addressed the guests thanking them for their continued community involvement and ended with him singing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”, which the smiling guests joined in the singing. The event concluded with the ever-popular 50/50 raffle winners’ announcement.

The next Chamber After 5 will be held on Jan. 17 at Stan’s Idle Hour.

For more information go to marcoislandchamber.org.