Chamber to celebrate outstanding citizens

The Lodi Chamber of Commerce will host the 95th annual Outstanding Citizens Celebration on Thursday, Feb. 1, 5;30 to 8 p.m., at Wine and Roses Hotel and Restaurant.

The nearly 100-year-old tradition celebrates the city’s outstanding citizens by honoring them for their service to the community and highlights the Lodi Chamber’s work throughout the year,

The graduating Leadership Lodi Class of 2017 will also be presented during the ceremony.

The 2017 recipient of the William T. Harkins Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award, John Ledbetter, is nationally known as a leader in the grape growing industry, but is also a key leader through his philanthropic efforts in the community.

Outside of operating his family’s expansive agricultural business, Vino Farms, Ledbetter has been instrumental in forming the Lodi Community Foundation, which has established a number of endowment funds for various causes including: The Salvation Army’s Culinary Arts program, the Pregnancy Resource Center of Lodi, the Lodi Boys & Girls Club, the Lodi Memorial Hospital Foundation and more.

Ledbetter is also the chairman of the Homeless Solutions Committee and the Hutchins Street Square Foundation. As the 95th Outstanding Citizen of the Year, Ledbetter will be honored for his community involvement and significant contributions to many nonprofits operating in Lodi.

The following awards and recipients will also be presented during the evening: FCB Homes as Business of the Year; Habanero Hots as Small Business of the Year; John Anagnos as Agribusiness Person of the Year; Erika Quninones of Akire Designs as Ambassador of the Year; and the Lodi Street Faire volunteers will be recognized for their years of service.

The event is expected to be attended by over 300 community leaders, elected officials, business executives, and Chamber members.

Tickets are available for purchase at or by calling 209-367-7830 x 105.