The Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce handed out its community excellence awards last Friday at the Italian Hall.
The talk of the night, besides the honourees, was the meal catered by Drinkwater’s Social House, due to open at Sproat Lake Landing soon.
Theresa Kingston was selected as Citizen of the Year for her philanthropic work and leadership. Gone Fishin’ earned the Business Excellence award. Bob Cole was named Volunteer of the Year.
Other winners were: Valley Vision Optometry for customer service; Van Isle Ford for rising star; Eric Gill for Youth of the Year; Swept Away Inn for tourism and hospitality; The Funk Trunk for social media; Alberni Natural Health Group for health and wellness.
Lance Lapointe won the inaugural Spirit of Music award, presented by Kenn and Linda Whiteman.
Slammers Gym was named the Welcoming Work Place, while Aaron Vissia Financial won the image enhancement award.
Eco Dry Cleaners earned the green award for installing new environmentally-friendly laundering equipment.
Gayle Stephen-Player and her daughter Rebecca of Gayle’s Fashions won the chamber’s special recognition award.
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