SCHENECTADY - The Chamber of Schenectady County will honor eight organizations and individuals at its 20th Annual Business Awards Dinner on Tuesday, October 21 to be held at Glen Sanders Mansion in Scotia.

"The Chamber is thrilled to recognize these businesses and the people who make them successful," said Angelo Mazzone, chairman of The Chamber's Board of Directors. "Schenectady has much to celebrate these days, and our vibrant business community is a big part of the Renaissance."

Following are the award cateogries and honorees:

• Rising Star Award - Given to a business in operation for two years or less, that has demonstrated commitment to the community and exhibits potential for long-term success.  Honoree: LT's Grill, Niskayuna; accepted by Thomas Coppola and L.J. Goldstock, owners
• Say Schenectady Tourism Award - Bestowed upon an individual or organization that has shown significant commitment to the development of tourism and visitor services in Schenectady County.
  Honoree: Schahet Hotels, owners of the Holiday Inn and Hampton Inn, Schenectady; accepted by Greg Schahet, president
• Tech Valley Innovation Award - Given to a business that has demonstrated extraordinary technical innovation.
  Honoree: TransTech Systems, Schenectady; accepted by Harry Apkarian, Chairman/CEO and David Apkarian, president
• Entrepreneur of the Year - Recognizes an innovative leader in a business with 100 employees or less who has contributed to the growth of Schenectady County. Honoree: Ray Bleser, Owner, Northeastern Fine Jewelry, Albany, Schenectady and Manchester, VT
• Enterprise of the Year - An award reserved for businesses with 100 employees or less distinguishing itself through achievements in growth and management.  Honoree: The Mossey Group, Schenectady; accepted by Larry and Nan Mossey, owners
• Executive of the Year - Reserved for a natural-born leader and charismatic go-getter who has contributed to the growth of Schenectady County. Honoree: Ray Gillen, Chairman, Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority, Schenectady
• Corporation of the Year - For a business with 100 employees or more, distinguishing itself through achievements in growth and management.  Honoree: RailEx LLC, Rotterdam Corporate Park; accepted by Paul Esposito, Senior VP
• Special Recognition: Gabriel Basil, retiring President, Schenectady County Community College