Frank Petrosino Honored at the Chamber's 100th Anniversary Gala

November, 2010 – Frank Petrosino was awarded the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce's Community Excellence Award at the Chamber's 100th anniversary gala on November 9, 2010.  He was selected for his many contributions to the region, including his work for Lake Champlain International, an organization that seeks to protect and revitalize the lake.  In his acceptance speech, Mr. Petrosino spoke of his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig's disease and he thanked the many people who have been supportive of him.  The crowd responded with a lengthy standing ovation. 

Mr. Petrosino is a Leadership Champlain graduate.   Following that program, he joined the Lake and Environment Study Committee at the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce.  He has also focused on three non-profit organizations:  Lake Champlain International, ReSOURCE, and Toastmasters.  In the nomination for this award, it was noted, "Using his legal expertise and interpersonal skills, Frank has been an integral and indispensable force in guiding LCI through the stunning transformation of a struggling organization on the verge of extinction to one of the premier advocates for Lake Champlain in the entire Lake Champlain basin." 

James Ehlers, the Executive Director of Lake Champlain International, said, "Congratulations, Frank Petrosino; you deserve all the recognition you receive.  Thank you for your countless contributions to Lake Champlain International and the future of Lake Champlain. The organization would not exist today were it not for your quiet and consistent support.  Heidi and you are among the finest people Elizabeth and I have the privilege of knowing. I am honored to be counted among your friends, and LCI and all our supporters are lucky to have you.  Onward!"