People dressed as emojis. Cartoon characters. Country-and-western singers. Wrestling superstars. Barbie, herself, was resplendent in pigtails and wearing a pink hoodie.
There was the familiarity of the venue, and the familiarity of the event emcees (and some of their material).
Armstrong's Centennial Theatre was filled with Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce members and guests decked out as their favourite pop culture icons as the recipients of the 2024 Community Excellence Awards were named Saturday, Sept. 21.
“Tonight we recognized some of the best in our community – local businesses and community members that have demonstrated a pursuit for excellence in service, leadership, community building and innovation,” said Madison Reynolds, chamber president, dressed divinely and frightfully as Lydia Deetz from Beetlejuice, who even handed out a few honours.
“The evening also celebrated responsible leadership, mentoring and volunteerism within the community.”
The awards marked the first time in years the event was held at the home of Asparagus Community Theatre. The event's longtime emcees, Sean Newtown and Phillip Hughes, were together again, dapper in tuxedo and suit, drawing tons of the laughs with their witty repartée, reminding the crowd of Martin and Lewis, or Rowan and Martin.
Hughes came up from Langley specifically to co-host with Newton.
“These awards are an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the dynamic and diverse group of people who make an important contribution to the quality of life in Armstrong and Spallumcheen.” said Patti Noonan, chamber executive director. "We are pleased with the number of nominations this year as we moved to an online system, but more so, the amount of thought put into some of the submissions."
Awards in 10 categories were given out to businesses, organizations and individuals nominated by their peers and the community. The awards drew 60 nominations.
And the award winners are:
• Rising Star: Willing2Ninja (sponsored by Rossworn Henderson LLP);
• Revitalization and Innovation: Fresh Valley Farm and The Village Dairy (tied) (sponsored by Hytec – A Kohler Company);
• Hospitality and Tourism: Armstrong Metalfest (sponsored by the Township of Spallumcheen, presented by Mayor Christine Fraser, dressed up as country queen Dolly Parton. The award was accepted by City of Armstrong councillor Jesse Valstar, Metalfest founder, dressed up as legendary wrestling champion (Stone Cold) Steve Austin.);
• Organization of the Year: Armstrong Wetlands Association (sponsored by Okanagan Restoration Services);
• Micro Business of the Year: BDC Welding (sponsored by VantageOne Credit Union);
• Small Business of the Year: Eagle Rock Plumbing & Heating (sponsored by Blackwell Building Movers);
• Mid-Size Business of the Year: Nelsons Glass (sponsored by Community Futures North Okanagan);
• Corporate Business of the Year: Sunbelt Rentals (sponsored by Hub International);
• Employee of the Year: Georgia Tettanente (sponsored by Shepherd’s Home Hardware & Outdoor Living Centre, accepted by Georgia's co-worker at The Clove restaurant as Tennanente was busy cooking award night).
In addition to a trophy designed by Final Touch, each winner received a gift basket sponsored by Rancho Vignola.
North Okanagan-Shuswap MP Mel Arnold, and Michelle Hudson of Integrity Traffic Control were both recognized with President’s Choice awards.
“It was noted that Integrity Traffic Control has supported many in the community through provision of training and planning for event,” said Kim Magarvey, chamber second vice-president, dressed up as Disney's Minnie Mouse. “In addition, MP Arnold has been a supporter of our local businesses and organizations for 11-plus years as our Member of Parliament."
After the awards presentation, nominees, sponsors, and guests gathered for further networking including Trivia and Music Bingo with Superstar Entertainment, amazing finger food provided by PV Blvd Coffee, and a grand prize draw with the lucky winner taking home a Deluxe Super Camping package from Monashee Outdoors worth $1,200.
“We are so thankful to have the support of our members and local businesses,” said Noonan. "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.”
