Community Leaders Honoured

The Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of its 2017 Community Excellence Awards.

Awards in ten categories were handed out Saturday night to businesses, organizations and individuals nominated by their peers and the community.

Photo: Ken Brandel & Richard L’Hirondelle accept the award for Organization of the Year on behalf of the Royal Canadian Legion, Armstrong. Award presented by Kevin Rothwell of Okanagan Restoration Services. (Megan Bender photo)

The following were recognized:

• Rising Star Curriebird Yoga Studio sponsored by Chris Heidt – Tekamar Mortgages Ltd.

• Micro Business of the Year Penny’s Pitstop sponsored by VantageOne Credit Union

• Small Business of the Year The Twisted Purl Yarn Studio sponsored by Blackwell Building Movers

• Mid-Size Business of the Year Maddocks Construction sponsored by Community Futures North Okanagan

• Corporate Business of the Year Kingfisher Boats sponsored by Hub International Barton Insurance

• Employee of the Year Sherry MacFarlane, Armstrong Spallumcheen Museum & Art Gallery sponsored by Shepherd’s Home Hardware & Outdoor Living Centre

• Revitalization & Innovation Gambrinus Malting ponsored by Hytec – A Division of Kohler

• Hospitality & Tourism Blue Hills Lavender sponsored by the Township of Spallumcheen

• Organization of the Year Royal Canadian Legion Branch 35 Armstrong sponsored by Okanagan Restoration Services Ltd.

• Volunteer of the Year Susan Wilson sponsored by the City of Armstrong

Vice president Donna Steeves says they received some great nominations.

“It was evident that for some, a lot of consideration and thought went into putting the nomination together,’ says Steeves. “A record number of nominations were received including a few from residents of outside Armstrong Spallumcheen that wanted to recognize local businesses.”

Each award winner received a gift basket compliments of Lavina Estate Wine, The Village Cheese Co., Terroir Cheese and Okanagan Rawsome.

Chamber member Final Touch was also recognized with the first event ‘Super User’ award part of a new program established this year. The program will recognize 1 or 2 businesses each month who know the value of their chamber membership includes opportunities such as networking, co-op marketing opportunities and benefits.

‘We are so thankful to have the support of our members and local businesses,’ says Patti Noonan, Executive Director Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce. “We could not present an event like this without their support. It is also important to recognize the efforts of the board, staff and volunteers who worked to make this a fun networking event.”