The Armstrong-Spallumcheen Chamber awards were handed out at Farmstrong Cider Co. May 11 (Vernon Matters photo)

By Kevin Rothwell

Community Excellence Awards

Armstrong-Spallumcheen toasts its best

May 12, 2023 | 12:00 PM

It was a love in for businesses and non-profits as the Armstrong-Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce held its sold out 1970’s themed awards event at Farmstrong Cider Company in Spallumcheen Thursday evening.

The capacity crowd embraced the theme with lots of tie-dye clothing, beads, paisley, flower crowns and trivia from that era.

Roger Knox and Kevin Rothwell having a ‘groovy’ time at the Armstrong-Spallumcheen Chamber awards at Farmstrong Cider (Vernon Matters photo)

The winners each received a keeper plaque and gift baskets of local products.

Rising Star sponsored by Rossworn Henderson LLP was won by PV BLVD Coffee.
Micro Business of the Year sponsored by VantageOne Credit Union was awarded to Rhythm Productions.
Small Business of the Year sponsored by Blackwell Building Movers went to Monashee Outdoors.
Mid-Size Business of the Year sponsored by Community Futures North Okanagan was won by Swanson Mountain Fitness.
Corporate Business of the Year sponsored by Hub International Insurance was awarded to Rancho Vignola.
Natalie Sinnott of Swanson Mountain Fitness was recognized as.Employee of the Year sponsored by Shepherd’s Home Hardware and Outdoor Living Centre:
Revitalization & Innovation Award sponsored by Hytec – A Kohler Company was won by Wood Mountain Naturals
The Hospitality and Tourism Award sponsored by Township of Spallumcheen was a tie between the host venue Farmstrong Cider Co. and Bloom Flower Festivals.
The Armstrong Kin Club won Organization of the Year sponsored by Okanagan Restoration Services Ltd.

Cycling from Okanagan to Van Isle

Police asking for help locating missing man

8h ago

Stage 2 Restrictions

Water restrictions enhanced for Greater Vernon due to storage concerns

9h ago

international security discussions

Local MP attending Defence and Aerospace Conference in Turkey

9h ago

The nominations are sent to another community to be judged by an independent panel.

The Presidents Choice Awards were given to Lisa Holmes who founded Armstrong Wine and Brew Ltd. in 1996 and Will and Wilma Hansma, publishers of the Okanagan Advertiser. The Advertiser recently ceased publication after over 120 years. The Hansma’s will continue to operate their printing company.

The $500 Peter Rotzetter Memorial Bursary for Future Entrepreneur was awarded to Marcus Petersen.

The 2023 Citizen of the Year sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, City of Armstrong and Township of Spallumcheen recipient was Gail Salter. Salter is the president of the Armstrong Heritage Society and volunteers with several local organizations. Salter will be further honoured during the 2023 Canada Day festivities.

by Kevin Rothwell

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