Bodysculptors Fitness was named Business of the Year and John McLenahan won the Volunteer of the Year Award as the Qualicum Beach Chamber of Commerce presented its 2017 Community Awards in a special event held on Wednesday, Feb. 21, at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre.
Each year the Chamber honours individuals and businesses for their contribution to the community and excellence in business. This celebration follows a nomination period during which Qualicum Beach residents and visitors are encouraged to nominate those they consider deserving of recognition.
Other winners included Newsmaker of the Year Lynne Noble of Qualicum & District Curling Club, who guided her curling rink to a B.C. provincial championship and bronze medal in the Canadian Senior Women’s Championships; Ken Bowerman of Qualicum Foods, winner of the Outstanding Customer Service Award; Oceanside Art Studio, winner of the New Business of the Year Award; Mary Brouilette for Citizen of the Year; and Rebekah Anne of Bekah-Anne Accessories, winner of the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
In addition, Brent Johnson was presented with the Community Futures Central Island Lifetime Achievement Award.
Wednesday’s event began with networking, with guests enjoying beverages and perusing the showcase display tables.
Extreme Eatz supplied a gourmet meal that highlighted prawn cocktail appetizers, stuffed pork loin, and was completed with an assortment of desserts.
Dave Graham from 88.5 The Beach was the night’s emcee and hosted an evening of celebration and acknowledgment. This years’ awards evening was a very special occasion where the chamber gave its attention to nominees and to the businesses that contribute to this unique and vibrant community.
Qualicum Beach Chamber of Commerce president Anne Dodson recognized the sponsors for the event and each of the awards.
“The Qualicum Beach Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the volunteers who helped to make this evening a success and the support of our generous sponsors,” said Dodson. “They include the Parksville Qualicum Beach News, the Society of Organized Services, Katherine Wilk from Royal LePage - Parksville Qualicum Beach Realty, Qualicum Foods, Pharmasave #182 Qualicum Beach, the Career Centre, Coastal Community Credit Union, and Community Futures Central Island.”
— NEWS staff/QB chamber submission