BATAVIA – John Hamel, owner of Pal Joey’s and Bar Evolution in Batavia, will receive the 2017 Donna Dallesasse Award from the Batavia Chamber of Commerce at its Harvest Celebration on Sept. 20.

The event gathers the community to salute one chamber member who has displayed outstanding commitment to the organization’s mission, vision and values, according to a news release.

It described Hamel as incredibly humble, who, when asked how he felt, said: “I have always lived in the back … when I get noticed, it is a weird thing. It has been nice getting a lot of texts, calls and congratulatory comments from friends and people in the community.”

In talking to Hamel, the chamber learned more about his upbringing and how it factors into his drive to help support the community, particularly the younger members. Hamel was raised by an adoptive family, which helped fuel his spirit of giving to those in need, according to the release, adding he understands how it feels as a child to be without, which has been a motivator in his desire to help others.

“John has worked tirelessly to support charitable organizations and our Batavia business community,” Holly Deitchman, president and CEO of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, stated in the release. “Like Donna [Dallesasse], John is always there to partner with another business person to help them with an event.”

Among those describing his business and charitable contributions is Melinda Kintz.

“His revitalization of Pal Joey’s patio, including the addition of entertainment and beautiful fire tables, does nothing but add class and draw to the best riverfront seating in Batavia,” she stated in the release. “… Bar Evolution adds significantly to the character, charm and appeal of our downtown. … In my role as executive director for Batavia United Way, I have been so grateful for John’s willingness to work with me on different ideas I’ve pitched, and he is always ready to brainstorm on ways to make it work. … He has always been willing to share his expertise, his experience and his contacts.”

She noted he also has been a supporter of CHIP IN Batavia, providing gift certificates for family meals in welcome baskets for families fortunate to move out of a homeless situation into more permanent housing.

He is also a friend to teens seeking summer employment, and to local charities, sports teams and clubs looking for donations or deals for group events.

“When I mentioned a CHIP IN immigrant family of 10 in dire need, John patiently interviewed two of the teens through a translator, and offered them summer jobs on the spot,” Kintz said.

Pleased that the award is going to Hamel is Missi Hartmann, owner of The Tea Tree, which shares a building with Bar Evolution.

“The city of Batavia is very lucky to have such an active business owner that commits so much of his time and resources in helping to make this city so wonderful,” she stated in the release.

This year marks the 11th anniversary of the establishment of the Donna Dallesasse Award. The public is invited to join chamber members in remembering the life of Donna Dallesasse and to celebrate Hamel’s contributions.

The event will include food, a casual cocktail reception, corn maze, hay rides and fire pit, with flannel and jeans suggested as attire.

If you go

WHAT: Batavia Chamber of Commerce’s Harvest Celebration

WHEN: 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 20

WHERE: Marmion’s Abbey Farms, 2855 Hart Road, Aurora

COST: $20

INFO: Registration is required at 630-879-7134 or bataviachamber.org/events