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.
In past years our business members have been nominated in a number of categories.
Excellence awards are given for trades services, manufacturing/industry, tourism/hospitality, retailing and professional services.
In addition, awards are given for the best new business, the best young entrepreneur, leadership in sustainability, technology and innovation, and of course, the business of the year award.
Since 1938 an important award has also been given to a worthy Summerland individual.
Formerly known as the Good Citizen Cup, the award is now known as the Citizen of the Year/Volunteer of the Year Award.
This is a person who has demonstrated exemplary dedication to the people of Summerland and who inspires others by their volunteer commitment to the community.
This year the chamber has introduced a new event meant to honour all of the nominees in every category.
This new nominees’ reception is sponsored by Nesters Market and will take place in the arena banquet hall on Friday, Jan. 30 from 5 to 7 p.m.
This is a free event for all the nominees and those who wish to congratulate them.
Nominations for awards can be made by businesses or the general public.
Online nomination forms and complete details are available on our website at summerlandchamber.com.
Forms are also available at the Visitor Centre, the Summerland Review and Municipal Hall.
Nominations will be open until Friday, Jan. 23.
Following the nominees’ reception, an awards committee will choose two finalists in each category.
Voting will take place in February and the awards will be given out at the gala on Feb. 28 at the Summerland Waterfront Resort.
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 and will also be presented at the gala.
Nominations are a wonderful way to thank a local business or volunteer who has impacted you.
Please take the time to nominate those who make a difference in our community.
We always appreciate your feedback. Please contact me at manager@summerlandchamber.com or our chamber president, Arlene Fenrich, at president@summerlandchamber.com.
Christine Petkau is the executive director of the Summerland Chamber of Commerce.