Three committed community volunteers are finalists for Squamish's Citizen of the Year award to be handed out later this month, while four influential enterprises are in the running for the title of Business of the Year.
The awards, being presented by the Squamish Chamber of Commerce, are to be handed out at the Chamber Gala on Saturday, Jan. 29 at Squamish Valley Golf Club.
Among the contributions of the Citizen of the Yeear finalists, as provided by those who nominated them:
Katrina Doherty Doherty's many volunteer endeavours have focused largely on youth, including Howe Sound Minor Ball, Squamish Minor Hockey and the Squamish Relay for Life. But her biggest contribution has been with the Squamish Youth Soccer Association, with which she has been involved for many years. She currently serves as president.
"Her efforts over the years have benefitted thousands of local youth, both directly and indirectly. Her positive influence is reflected in the faces and greetings she receivese from our young people wherever she goes," states one nomination.
Sean Daly The manager of Nesters Market, Daly has gone out of his way to support the many not-for-profit endeavours that make Squamish tick, including the Lions, Rotary, the Seniors Centre, Helping Hands, the Test of Metal and Loggers Sports.
"The list of events and community groups is endless, as is Sean's commitment to this community," one nomination reads. "His generosity knows no bounds, nor does his time to help any who ask it."
Cindy Cardiff A full-time mother with two active boys, Cardiff is also co-owner/operator of Double Shutter Images Photography. Her involvement includes co-organizing the Squamish Christmas Market and Canada Day celebrations, the Relay for Life orgaqnizing committee, minor hockey manager, BMX Club executive, Scouts and the Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relay celebrations.
"Cindy believes in business, play and family and that it takes a community and is proud to call this one home," one person who nominated her wrote.
The nominees for Business of the Year:
Nesters Market Supporter of countless community events and initiatives including Loggers Sports, Helping Hands, the Test of Metal and the Seniors Centre, as well as service groups such as Rotary and the Lions.
Training Innovations Inc. Career development company that provides government-funded initiatives and programs to help unemployed people re-connect to the job market. Since opening in 2000, has successfully helped more than 8,000 area residents find jobs.
Chances Boardwalk Squamish Since opening in February 2010, Chances and the Rock Bar and Grill have employed more than 50 local residents and hosted a number of community events including the Loggers Sports World Invitational Axe Throwing Competition and the after party for the successful Squamish Live music festival.
Agnes Jean Boutique Owned and operated by Georgia Richards, Anges Jean is a business that "is completely congruent and integral with their business model, beliefs and products they carry," states one nomintion. "Every product they carry, education on consumer choices, their attitudes and lifestyle choices reflect this congruency, even down to their 'wood biodegradeable gift cards!"
The Citizen of the Year presenttion is sponsored by The Chief, while the Business of the Year presentation is sponsored by the North Shore Credit Union. Tickets for the Chamber Gala 2011 are $75 plus HST. The program includes dinner, live and silent auctions, a Candy Bar and music by Dr. D and the Soul Demons. For information contact Jane at (604) 815-4990 or [email protected], or visit www.squamishchamber.com
