From left, MBA Executive Director Anna Maria Blescia, President Ed Berger, and Businesspersons of the Year Paula Hartman and Dana Hartman-Hiltner.
By NANETTE LoBIONDO GALLOWAY
The Margate Business Association held its annual meeting and holiday party Wednesday, Dec. 13 at Tomatoes restaurant on Amherst Avenue. More than 130 local business owners, city employees, MBA volunteers and friends attended the soiree enjoying good food, drinks and mingling with friends and colleagues.
MBA President Ed Berger listed the slate of trustees for 2024, who were unanimously appointed by a voice vote from the crowd.
The MBA also presented its annual Joseph P. Tozzi Award of Distinction to businesspersons of the year Realtors Paula Hartman and her daughter Dana Hartman-Hiltner, who co-chair the organization’s wine tasting event.
Berger said the award recognizes a deserving business or businessperson who exemplifies all that is good about being in business in Margate, a commitment to the MBA and the community, and their tireless efforts and genuine spirit of generosity in community initiatives.
Proceeds of the wine tasting event benefit the MBA’s Daniel and Maria Walters Scholarship program, which since its inception has awarded more than $125,000 in scholarships to students of the city’s public school system, and the MBA Children’s Fund, which provides anonymous support for children of the district.
“People think in Margate there aren’t kids that need things, but there are, and we help through the schools anonymously for things like going to the doctor, clothing, winter coats, food, dentists. It’s critical that we make this funding available,” Berger said.
Hartman and Hartman-Hiltner also work to support the Hansen Foundation, Jewish Community Center, Alzheimer’s Foundation, Jewish Family Services, Gilda’s Club and more, Berger said.
“They are everywhere…giving their time, money and sweat equity toward each and every cause they are involved in,” Berger said.
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