Locally-owned retail and restaurant owners will be honored at the Newton Needham Regional Chamber’s Annual Members Celebration, on June 27 from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Newton Marriott Hotel.

“Whether it’s a retail shop, salon, pub or family restaurant, we’ll be highlighting the hard work and commitment of the business owners who are the backbone of our town centers, villages and communities,” said Lise Elcock, the chamber’s membership director.

Cabot's Ice Cream - celebrating 50 years in Newton, and Michelson's Shoes - celebrating 100 years in business with locations in Needham Center and Lexington, will be presented with special recognition for their decades of support to their communities.

“One of the best things about being in such a great community is being part of so many special occasions and celebrations: a baby’s first ice cream, first days of school, first dates, engagements, recitals and sport teams – all create lasting memories for everyone,” Joe Prestejohn, second generation owner of Cabot’s said reflecting on his family’s many years at the Newton ice cream shop.

For Joe it’s especially poignant when an adult comes in and says to their child, “I use to come here when I was your age and everything is exactly the same.”

“Throughout the years we’ve gotten to know so many great people, watch families grow and have the best employees, some of who actually grew up coming to Cabot’s” says Joe. And always bringing it back to the ice cream, Joe adds, “All while making people smile one scoop at a time!”

Michelson’s Shoes launched its business in Lexington in 1919, opening a second location in Needham Center. "It has been great to be a part of Needham since 1985. It was a natural fit for us to expand into a community that is very supportive of its local businesses, and which appreciates strong customer service,” shares Jerry Michelson, who along with his brother Eric are fourth generation family business owners.

"Having taken over the longstanding Wells Shoe location we are proud to have the next generation of Needham families continue to shop with us,” added Jerry.

And with today’s online shopping competition, Michelson’s goes above and beyond for its customers.

“We try to find the proper brands and styles for a great fit - we do the research so you don't have to waste time online guessing what will work for your feet,” says Jerry. “Whether it’s your new walker for their first shoes; a pair for your special occasion; or just a pair to make it through your work day, we're here to service you."

Presented by The Village Bank, the Members Celebration will take place along the banks of the Charles River at the Newton Marriott’s outdoor pavilion and offer complimentary hors d’oeuvres.

This event draws many past, current and future members who gather to celebrate all the businesses and nonprofit organizations which have supported the chamber throughout the years and on whose collective foundation have built the Newton-Needham Regional Chamber into one of the largest and most robust chambers in the state.

From the small business owners to the larger companies which pay their dues each year to our annual partners who contribute generous levels of underwriting, each and every member of the chamber makes it possible in its own way for us to continue to promote the cultural and economic vitality of Newton, Needham and the surrounding communities.

Members may register for our June 27 Annual Members Celebration at nnchamber.com. Space is limited.