Don MacKenzie named Jeanne Czel Person of the Year
ESSEX, Conn. – The Connecticut Marine Trades Association (CMTA) announced that Don MacKenzie of Boats Incorporated was named the 2015 Jeanne Czel Person of the Year at the association’s annual Jingle & Mingle celebration on Thursday, December 17. The award, which celebrates the life of Jeanne Czel, formerly of Ritt’s Marine Center, is CMTA’s highest honor.
Jeanne Czel fought a courageous battle against cancer, never losing site of the needs of others and with a sense of humor that was contagious. This event was her favorite as marine industry colleagues come together for a night of fun and fellowship.
As an industry leader, MacKenzie has served on CMTA’s Board of Directors, as Chairman and Chairman Emertius and Boat Show Committee Chairman. He is co-owner of Boat’s Inc. a Grady White and Parker Dealership and marina in Niantic, Conn. And has been previously named to the Boating Industry Top 100.
The award includes an inscription from Booker T. Washingtion “If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else,” and CMTA recognizes that MacKenzie lives that each day.
Don recently shared his request for future awardees.
“For next year, please consider anyone in your organization to become a recipient. It doesn’t have to be a board member or chairman of a committee. If you have someone who is a champion of our industry on your staff or out there promoting good will, please nominate them,” MacKenzie said.
Amy Lynn Clark was the first recipient in 2014 and received a Proclamation from Governor Malloy at the event.
I offer best “congratulations” to Don Mackenzie. I can say as one of his extended family members that Don has always held such a caring disposition toward others, and all that this honor exemplifies. Our mutual grandparents would be so pleased that their nature and fine example have resulted in such an award for Don. Don, as your Uncle Larry would say, ” Atta Boy!!!” Carol English