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53rd Annual Salem First Citizen Awards Banquet

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the 53rd  Annual First Citizens Banquet, Friday, January 24, 2003 at the Red Lion Hotel and Convention Center.  The committee, chaired by Jill Munger from the Willamette University Alumni Office, was thrilled to have another sell-out crowd on deck to honor the tremendous efforts of four of Salem's finest community volunteers.  The 400 guests on hand were treated to a royal evening on the Chamber seas!

Picture of all the Recipients

(L to R) 1st Citizen Gene Derfler (w/ wife Thelma), Distinguished Service Award winners Bryan Johnston (w/ wife Ann), Carole Smith (with husband Eric Kittleson) and Britta Franz.

First Citizen Award Recipient

Gene Derfler was honored as Salem's 2002 First Citizen at the sold out banquet held Friday, January 24th at the Red Lion Hotel.  As both a business owner and an elected official, Gene was recognized by the sell-out crowd for his long time service to the Salem community.  Most recently, Gene completed 16 years in the State Legislature including serving as President of the Senate in his last session. 

Distinguished Service Award Recipients