Merrick Chamber of Commerce names Merchant and Professional of the Year

The Merrick Chamber of Commerce recently named its “Merchant of the Year” and “Professional of the Year,” honoring the community commitment of Merrick Surgical Supplies, at 131 Merrick Ave, and Armando D’Accordo, proprietor of CMIT Solutions of South Nassau, at 34 Merrick Ave.

Randy Shotland, president of the Merrick Chamber of Commerce, said that he and his colleagues annually select the honorees based on “who gives the most back to the community.”

Shotland said that Andra and Leo Levine, owners of Merrick Surgical Supplies, “are very service-oriented … and really go beyond the norm. If they don’t have something in stock, they’ll go out and get it or help you to locate it.” Leo Levine said he is also involved in organizing the Chamber’s annual fall festival, trying to secure charitable donations for community causes from local businesses and serves on the Chamber’s board.

Shotland also complimented D’Accordo’s work at CMIT Solutions, saying that he “steps up to the plate” in assisting customers to resolve their computer problems.

“He’s a Kiwanis member, very active member of community, active with his kids,” Shotland said. “He’s a member of the Chamber board and has been helping us get more updated with social media.”

The Levines and D’Accordo received plaques to hang in their offices and window signs with the Chamber’s logo identifying them as the 2013 “Merchant of the Year” and “Professional of the Year.” They were also honored at an award dinner on June 10 at R.S. Jones restaurant, at 153 Merrick Ave.

“What’s most poignant or meaningful to us is [Merrick Surgical Supplies] has been around for about 35 years, and I’ve only owned it for about 5 years,” Leo Levine said. “To get recognized after such a short time, and to read some of the comments customers sent in to the Chamber — we were floored.”

D’Accordo said he was very pleased to have “gained the respect of people I respect.”

“It feels fantastic,” D’Accordo said. “It’s a great honor. It’s not like winning a contest. It’s an accumulation of recognition from community leaders and my business peers in the area.”