Published: November 18, 2009 11:15 pm      

Somerset chamber honors Clapper

CHAMPION — Sharon S. Clapper was named outstanding Person of the Year at the 69th Somerset County Chamber of commerce dinner held Wednesday at Seven Springs Mountain Resort.

She received the award for her leadership role in organizations including Meyersdale Women’s Club, Maple Tree Association and the Chamber of Commerce.

“This is an extreme honor,” Clapper said.

“It’s something I will treasure the rest of my life.”

A Johnstown native, she has made Somerset her home for 19 years.

Friends said Clapper is a dedicated volunteer who unselfishly gives her time for community causes.

“There are so many people who volunteer so many hours,” she said. “I graciously accept this award on their behalf.”

Recognizing the importance agriculture plays in the county, the Somerset Farmers Market received the 2009 Betty Haupt Memorial Tourism Award.

Wendy Stemple, Newspaper in Education coordinator at the (Somerset) Daily American received the Grant B. Miller Award.

Chamber board member Jim Zimmerman was named Ambassador of the Year.

“I feel very fortunate to have had Jim on my board of directors since my arrival five years ago,” Chamber Executive Director Ron Aldom said.

Zimmerman is also a Flight 93 Ambassador and a member of the Somerset Kiwanis Club.

Aldom called the event the largest chamber banquet ever, with more than 300 people attending.

“This is a great cross section of Somerset County and the region,” he said. “It’s been real exciting.”

The keynote speaker was Dr. Barabara Baker, CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.

An assistant curator and an education specialist from the zoo showed off several animals, including an owl, an American alligator, a porcupine and a chinchilla.