By MATT LINDSEY

CANTON —The Canton Chamber of Commerce has named Debbie Gilson of County Seat Realty as its member of the year and will honor the Canton Fire and Rescue with its recognition award.

The awards will be presented at the chamber’s annual dinner on Feb. 9 in Eben Holden Dining Hall at St. Lawrence University.

“Debbie Gilson of County Seat Realty was chosen as Chamber Member of the Year because she cares so much for Canton,” according to chamber executive director Sally Hill.

Hill says Gilson has always lived in Canton.

“She supports not only the Canton Chamber but many other organizations, she is on several boards and she wants only the best for the community,” Hill said. “This was evident when she purchased the properties on Gouverneur Street.”

Gilson had a burned-out eyesore near the corner torn down this past fall, making way for parking at the future home of County Seat Realty.

“As an entry to Canton, everyone was tired of seeing the old burned out house with nothing being done to it,” she said.

“Anyone that has worked with Debbie will tell you she is a go-getter, in business and in what she believes in, which is her hometown of Canton,” Hill said.

The Canton Chamber of Commerce Recognition Award is given to a non-chamber business or organization that has improved the community. The chamber chose Canton Fire and Rescue as its winner this year.

“Canton Fire and Rescue is one organization that does not get enough credit for all they do,” Hill said about why the group was chosen. “Everyone knows they are there whenever you need them.”

Hill said that the number of calls they take in a year is amazing. “I myself was taken in the ambulance one day; they are so focused on making sure you are not in pain as they load you in and talk to you all the way to keep you calm,” she explained.

Hill remembered a time when the power went out and Canton Fire and Rescue personnel moved an elderly lady to her home because Hill has a generator for heat.

“They really do care about the job they do,” she said. “I am sure many of the Canton residents would agree with me and we all want to say thank you.”

The dinner begins at 6 p.m. with a social hour that includes an auction, business displays and drinks. A buffet dinner will begin serving at 7 p.m. and the program begins at 7:30 p.m.

“We are still accepting donations toward the auction,” Hill said. “Proceeds will be donated to the Canton Park Fountain Fund.”

Hill said the fountain “is in need of serious repair” and that fundraising has been ongoing since last fall.

“A lot of people have stepped up and we’ve been able to raise money but we’ve a long way to go,” she said, noting that the goal is to raise $225,000.

The park is owned by the Presbyterian Church.

The cost to attend the chamber dinner is $40 and reservations must be made by Feb. 1 at 386-8255.