By Erin Knutson

The Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce (COC) celebrated an evening of eminence at its 30th annual Business Excellence Awards Gala at the St. Eugene Golf Resort and Casino Saturday evening (Apr. 2). 

“We celebrate the very best in Cranbrook’s business community, from vibrant non-profits to young entrepreneurs and successful businesses. We have so much to celebrate and recognize,” said COC Executive Director Helen Barron.

Gathering in the Pavillion, over 80 of Cranbrook’s finest businesses and entrepreneurs converged to enjoy dinner, drinks, live music courtesy of Jaime Neve and the first live awards ceremony for the chamber since the beginning of the pandemic. 

“This evening was made possible by the generous support and partnership of many Cranbrook businesses and organizations. For that, we thank you,” said Barron. 

The awards went off seamlessly with a sold-out house and a line-up of guest speakers, sponsors, and a pair of charming hosts (D’Arcy Kennedy and Kaytee Sharun).

Winners spoke of the hardships of the past two years as the business community acknowledged coming through a difficult time and still maintaining a high calibre of service in their fields.

 

Thirteen outstanding businesses took home awards, including:

• Pharmasave for Age-Friendly Business of the Year (Shawn Jacklin & Kyle Piscopo)

Helen Barron accepted award for Jordan Nering. (No Photo)

• Artistic Media Productions for Business to Business Excellence (Jordan Nering)

• Heidi Romich from The Heid Out Restaurant and Brewhouse and Fisher Peak Brewing Company for Business Person of the Year. 

• Ella’s Cafe won Hospitality and Tourism Excellence (Aleitha Harvey)

 

• M&M Food Market was awarded Customer Service Excellence

• Young Entrepreneur of the Year went to Marina Stropky and Maraih Tarasoff from Two Birds Deli

• Kootenay Computer won Inclusive Employer of the Year (Seb van der Horst)

• The Hearing Loss Clinic was awarded Professional Service Excellence 

• Non-Profit Organization of the Year went to Operation Street Angel (Tammy Pocha)

• Sweet Gestures Chocolate Shoppe won Business of the Year (1-15 employees) – Michelle Shypitka

• Twisted Peaks Frozen Yogurt won New Business of the Year

• The Paw Shop was awarded Retailer Excellence (Stephanie McGregor)

• Business of the Year (16 plus employees) went to The Heid Out and Fisher Peak Brewing Company.  (lead image)

According to the chamber board and staff, the Business Excellence awards recipients were selected through a carefully juried panel interview system based on an adjustment to maintain safety during the pandemic. 

“Thank you to the 38 volunteers who adjudicated the nominees – the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce celebrates the very best in Cranbrook’s business community,” said Barron.

For more information on the winners check here.

Photos by Erin Knutson 

e-KNOW

 

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