NORTH TONAWANDA — The Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas will host its 87th Annual Meeting and Installation of Officers on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Martinsville Grove at 1241 Strad Avenue.
The evening will celebrate community leadership, business excellence, and civic pride with the presentation of the Chamber’s 2025 Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year, and Not-for-Profit of the Year awards.
The event begins at 5:30 p.m. with an open bar and appetizers, followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the awards and installation of officers at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $60 per person or $450 for a table of eight.
This year’s honorees exemplify the Chamber’s mission to promote growth, innovation, and community connection throughout the Tonawandas:
Citizen of the Year – Teresa Belbas
A longtime North Tonawanda resident and Managing Partner of Fattey Beer Co. at the Wurlitzer, Teresa Belbas has transformed her business into a hub for community engagement. Since opening the NT location in 2021, Teresa has supported countless local causes, partnering with nonprofits, veterans’ groups, youth organizations, and pet adoption events. She has hosted numerous community fundraisers, live music nights, and charity drives—using her business as a platform to give back. In 2025, Teresa and Fattey Beer Co. proudly hosted the first full season of the Slow Spokes North Tonawanda Community Bike Rides, promoting health, connection, and family-friendly fun throughout the city. Her kindness, generosity, and community spirit make her an outstanding citizen whose impact continues to strengthen the place we call home.
Business of the Year – Matt’s Music Inc.
Founded in 1963 by Matt Piorkowski, Matt’s Music Inc. has been a cornerstone of the North Tonawanda community for over 60 years. Under the continued leadership of Matt and his family—daughter and son-in-law Kathy Carr and Steve Schiavone, along with grandchildren Dr. Zach Carr and Katelyn Stuermer—the business continues to inspire a lifelong love of music through education, retail, and performance. Beyond their thriving business, the family also established the Matt’s Music Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to making music accessible to all, regardless of economic or social barriers. Through this foundation, they provide lessons, therapy, instruments, and opportunities for individuals of all abilities to experience the joy of music. From free concerts for special needs audiences to collaborations with Alzheimer’s programs and community music events, Matt’s Music continues to bring the healing power of music to all corners of the Tonawandas.
Not-for-Profit of the Year – Riviera Theatre and Organ Preservation Society
The Riviera Theatre and Organ Preservation Society continues to preserve and promote one of Western New York’s most treasured landmarks—the historic Riviera Theatre and its world-famous “Mighty Wurlitzer” pipe organ. Through dedicated volunteerism, restoration efforts, and fundraising, the organization has ensured that this beloved theatre remains a beacon for live performance and historic preservation. Its recent renovations and ribbon-cutting celebration mark an exciting new chapter for the Riviera and reaffirm its role as a cultural cornerstone for generations to come.
“Each of this year’s honorees represents the very best of what makes our community special—dedication, compassion, creativity, and a commitment to making the Tonawandas a better place for everyone,” said Maggie Higgins, President of the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas. “We’re proud to celebrate their achievements and the incredible impact they continue to have on our region.”
Tickets for the Annual Meeting are available through the Chamber office. Reservations are requested by Wednesday, October 28, 2025.
For more information, visit www.the-tonawandas.com or contact the Chamber office at (716) 692-5120 or chamber@the-tonawandas.com
