The Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the recipients of its 2026 community awards for people, organizations and businesses that continue to make a meaningful impact throughout the Tamaqua area.

R. Daniel Evans is the recipient of the 2026 Joseph M. Plasko Citizenship Award, which recognizes outstanding community service and civic leadership. Evans has played a significant role in Tamaqua’s economic development efforts, including serving as chairman of the Tamaqua CRIZ from 2019 — 23 and continuing as vice chairman. His work has helped advance redevelopment and investment in the community, including more than $15 million in redevelopment efforts.

Megan and Aaron Gimbel, owners of Gimbel’s Restaurant, are being recognized as the 2026 Business Persons of the Year. Through their commitment to their business and their community, the Gimbels have become an important part of Tamaqua’s downtown business community. Their dedication, hospitality and willingness to support local organizations and events reflect the spirit of community involvement that the award celebrates.

The Tamaqua Public Library is the 2026 Business of the Year, recognized for its continued evolution as far more than a place to borrow books. The library has become an important community gathering place, offering programs, activities, educational opportunities and resources for children, families, teens and adults. Its ongoing commitment to serving the community makes it a vital part of Tamaqua’s quality of life.

The dinner will also feature a new Silent Art Auction celebrating local creativity and community collaboration. Artwork from local artists will be available for bidding, with proceeds benefiting the Tamaqua Community Art Center, the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce and participating local artists.

The chamber sees the auction as another opportunity to bring local organizations, businesses, artists and residents together while showcasing the talent found throughout the Tamaqua area.

“The Progress Dinner is about more than presenting awards,” said Tamaqua Area Chamber Executive Director Aimee Dotson. “It is an opportunity to stop and recognize the people and organizations who are helping move Tamaqua forward. This year’s recipients each represent a different piece of what makes a community strong — entrepreneurship, service, investment, creativity and a commitment to the people around them.”

The event will also provide an opportunity for community members and local businesses to gather, celebrate the accomplishments of the past year and look ahead to the continued growth and progress of the Tamaqua area.

The annual Tamaqua Community Progress Dinner will be held on Oct. 1. The dinner will be held at Mountain Valley Golf Course in Barnesville, with cocktails beginning at 5 p.m. and dinner served at 6 p.m. Tickets are on sale and the event is open to the public.

Tickets are required and are available online through the Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/tamaqua-community-progress-dinner