Every year the Summerland Chamber of Commerce has the privilege of recognizing and honouring our local businesses as well as those who have made a difference in our community.
This year will be the 78th anniversary of the awards event.
Last year we talked about how connected our community is between businesses, individuals and organizations.
Our buying habits and practices make a tremendous difference on a very local level since the businesses we buy goods and services from locally are then able to support the organizations, clubs and service groups who are so active in Summerland.
Part of being connected is knowing where those goods and services can be found.
In fall the chamber launched a new website with a comprehensive new business directory that provides this information.
At this year’s gala we particularly want to celebrate those companies who incorporate community support into their plans for business excellence.
And in 2016 we will be encouraging you to discover all the products and services you can find right here at home.
Thank you for continuing to support Summerland businesses.
Nominations in the following award categories will open on Dec. 14:
o Business of the Year
o Rising Star/New Business
o Sustainability Leader
o Technology and Innovation
o Professional Services Excellence
o Trade Services Excellence
o Manufacturing/Industrial Excellence
o Retail Excellence
o Tourism and Hospitality Excellence
o Young Entrepreneur of the Year
o Citizen/Volunteer of the Year
The Mayor’s Award of Excellence continues to be an important acknowledgement of community leadership.
This award is given at the Mayor’s discretion to an organization that has made an outstanding contribution to Summerland.
Nominations can be made by the public and by businesses. Chamber business members (both local and corporate members) are eligible to be nominated.
A business may also nominate themselves for an award as we have many businesses in Summerland that are not visible to the general public yet they play a vital role in our economy and are doing excellent work.
Nominations will be open until 5 p.m. on Jan. 20.
Please plan to join us at the annual Nominees Reception, on Jan. 28 to congratulate all the nominees.
A nominations committee will shortlist finalists and from Feb. 3 to 18, Chamber of Commerce members will have the opportunity to vote for the winners.
The general public is invited to vote for Citizen of the Year.
The awards will be given out at the gala on Feb. 27.
For online nominations and information about the awards and gala, please visit www.summerlandchamber.com.
We always appreciate your feedback. Please contact me at cpetkau@summerlandchamber.com or our chamber president, Kelly Marshall, at president@summerlandchamber.com.
Christine Petkau is the executive director of the Summerland Chamber of Commerce.
