The 77th annual Summerland Business and Community Awards ceremony on Saturday was an opportunity to recognize businesses, individuals and organizations for outstanding efforts.
The award recipients and finalists have stood out in various categories and deserve the recognition they have received.
The quality of the nominees this year was strong. The award finalists selection committee had a difficult task in paring down the list to two entries in each category.
As the list of nominees and finalists shows, there are many in Summerland who are making an extra effort. In many cases, the work has taken place over many years. It is important to recognize their contributions.
The pursuit of excellence, in any sector of our business community, benefits the community as a whole.
Businesses which are known for providing extra effort will draw and retain customers. They also help to develop a reputation for business excellence throughout the community.
The individuals and organizations listed this year have also made a difference in the community.
The list of award winners and even the full list of nominees, while impressive, is not a complete list of all who are making exceptional efforts in Summerland.
Only 11 awards were presented on Saturday evening, but many more businesses, organizations and individuals continue to provide noteworthy service to the community.
Some are businesses working to provide the best possible product or service for their customers.
Some are service organizations which provide assistance or funding to special community projects or causes.
Some are individuals who give of their time in many ways, without expecting any compensation in return for their efforts.
These continuous efforts deserve to be acknowledged.