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A group of 178 community and business leaders from West Chester and Liberty townships gathered at The Savannah at Chappell Crossing Aug. 21 to honor West Chester Chamber Alliance president/CEO Joe Hinson and Vice President Kathy Rambo, who both celebrate their 10th year with the chamber this year.

"This night is about two things," said Pastor Doug Dunlap of Living Faith Church during an opening prayer. "Leadership and friendship, and tonight, we celebrate two people who exemplify both."

Hinson and Rambo were escorted into the room to a standing ovation. After dinner, they took their seats of honor on a couch on stage, and emcee Bob Herzog from WKRC Channel 12 introduced the night's speakers.

Mike Sipple, a long-time friend of Hinson's, spoke first.

"I don't know if I've worked with or known anyone, business or otherwise, who had more passion for what they do," he told the crowd.

Jerry Bryan talked about Rambo's start with the Chamber, first as a volunteer then as its vice president in charge of events.

"The success of the chamber is its people, Kathy," he said. "I'm just one of the lucky people who got to work with you from day one."

Chamber leadership development director Kerry Murray talked about working day-to-day with both honorees.

"They set the example," she said. "You want to be better at things you're good at, and you want to be a lot better at things you need to improve in."

And after a song about the duo sung by Miami University Voice of America Learning Center director Rod Nimtz and a performance by stand-up comedian Rajiv Satyal, Hinson and Rambo took the microphone.

"Thank you for honoring me for what I really like doing," said Rambo.

"I wish everyone had the opportunity to experience what Kathy and I have experienced,' said Hinson. "I'm not sure 'thank you' is enough."

Contact this reporter at (513) 755-5127 or mcunningham@coxohio.com.