Stephane is awarded HONOR!

Winners of Inaugural Young Professionals Awards Announced

The Greater Watertown Jaycees, in partnership with the Jefferson-Lewis Workforce Investment Board, are pleased to announce the selection of three outstanding young professionals that have demonstrated outstanding leadership in their communities.

Doreen Garrett, Chief Executive Officer/Chief Financial Officer, Otis Technology, Lyons Falls, was selected for her outstanding leadership in the business community. Mrs. Garrett started Otis Technology at age 16 from her home. Today, Otis is the leading manufacturer of firearms maintenance systems regarded by professional firearm users as the most advanced gun care system in the world. Mrs. Garrett is also recognized for her contributions to her community and employees. In 2006, she opened a day care center steps from her manufacturing facility to provide childcare not only to her employees, but the community as well. She is very active in organizations throughout Lewis County.

Stephanie Warnekros, Assistant Director for the Watertown YMCA’s dance program, was selected for her outstanding work in promoting arts and culture within her community. Nominated by Rhonda Foote, Ms. Foote noted that Stephanie “encourages the creativity [of young dancers], empowers those who wish to become better dancers and people, and knows how to make her students excited about what they can accomplish as dancers and as individuals.” Ms. Warnekros was chosen as the only scholarship recipient nationwide to travel for the summer on tour with Dance Caravan, a national dance organization. She attends Jefferson Community College and hopes to someday be an elementary teacher.John Wicke, General Manager, Penski, Inc. was selected for his outstanding leadership and volunteer work in his community. Mr. Wicke is currently a town councilman for the Town of Massena; however his involvement in government has been longstanding. At the age of 24 he was appointed and then subsequently elected as a Village Trustee in Massena. A position he held for 10 years. He has served on many area boards of directors including the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Wicke, with a partner, owns Copy Shop and Business Center which serves local businesses.

Recipients will be honored at the Young Professionals dinner on July 11 at the Best Western Carriage House. Tickets are $25 per person and registration forms are available on-line at www.emergenny.com.