The well attended Creston Valley Business Awards Gala announced their winners based on final votes from attendees on February 23.
The event was hosted in the Creston room at the Creston And District Community Complex and organized by the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Here are the winners of each category.
Hospitality and Tourism: Jimmy’s Pub and Grill, accepted by Cori Karountzos
Arts and Culture: Creston Museum, accepted by Tammy Bradford
Trades and Services: Swift Internet, accepted by Kitt Santano
Best in Professional Services:Â Family Practice Associates Clinic
Non Profit of the Year: Creston Valley Gleaners Society, accepted by Jean Syroteuk
Employer of the year: Pealow’s Independent Grocer, accepted by Robyn Beebe.
Save on Foods claimed two awards at the gala, including Best Customer Service and in a special vote by Chamber members only, the award for Business Excellence.
Save on Foods Manager Steve Smeaton said his team earned it.
“I just think it’s the team that cares about the community. They live here, they’re a part of the community and it’s extra special to them to serve their community. So it’s a great team and they love to live here.”
Chamber of Commerce Manager Vern Gorham said he wants to expand on the success of the event.
“We think we can offer more awards and just get more people more involved in this. Because there’s so many people in Creston in our little valley that are doing so much good for our community that this is really what it’s all about. It’s about recognizing them.”
Though the date has not yet been set, Gorham said jokingly that next year’s event can only grow so much, making reference to the packed room in which the Gala was housed. The night ended with dancing and celebration.