NORWICH – It was a bittersweet farewell Wednesday as the Chenango Arts Council bid adieu to longtime CAC Executive Director Victoria Kappel.

“You gave my children a community. You gave my husband a “house,” said Kappel, referencing the name of the Martin W. Kappel Theater in remembrance of her late husband. “And you gave me a home.”

Kappel addressed an audience of nearly 200 guests who attended the reception at the Chenango Arts Council, located at 27 W. Main St. in downtown Norwich.

The event brought together both past and present board members, supporters of the arts and even New York Assemblyman Cliff Crouch, who presented Kappel with a proclamation commending her service to the arts community.

“Your unwavering service, vision and expertise has benefited the people and artisans of your community, and the State of New York,” said Crouch.

Crouch indicated that June 25 would officially be recognized for Victoria Kappel in New York's 122nd district and thanked Kappel for her years of dedication and service to the cultural enrichment of Chenango County.