The Delta Chamber of Commerce recognized deserving local citizens and members of the business community last Friday (Nov. 18) for their dedication to Delta at the 60th Hats Off To Excellence Awards Gala.
Earning the Citizen of the Year Award was Carlene Lewall for her commitment to the sporting community.
Lewall has been involved with the Delta Gymnastics Society for 31 years, chaired the Delta Spirit of B.C. Community Committee and founded the Delta Sport Hall of Fame Society. She is one of the founders of the Delta Sport Council, serves as chair of KidSport Delta, chair of the Operation Red Nose safe drive program and is a member of the Delta Hospital's public consultation committee.
In her acceptance speech, Lewall thanked the chamber for their support along with everyone she's worked with on various committees and volunteer groups.
"It's not one person, it's the community that builds Delta," she said. "If everybody would just give a little bit, we would be even better than what we already are—and we're the best."
Business of the Year honours went to West Coast Seeds, owned by Jeannette McCall. The small, Ladner-based company offers untreated seeds, specializing in certified organic and heirloom varieties, and offers classes and workshops on the principles of organic gardening and farming at its retail store.
The brand new Delta Rotary Business Ethics Award was presented to North Delta's South Shore Cycles. Owner Wayne Hobbis promotes better roadways, clearly marked bike routes, and new bike lanes throughout Delta. The business is home to the Team Coastal Riding Club and the Ride 2 Survive.
The Special Events and Tourism Award was given to Curt Janzen for the annual Ladner Bandfest event—the largest gathering of adult musicians in Western Canada, with up to 700 musicians performing bands over two days every June at Ladner Memorial Park.
The Rising Star Award was presented to Yvonne and David Anderson for creating Santevia Pure Earth Water in January 2008. The company now sells not only in Canada, but the U.S., the U.K. and Europe.
Steve Grant received the Volunteer Service Award for 35-plus years of dedication to the community. Grant is a coach, referee, umpire and executive in youth soccer, baseball and softball.
More than 160 guests gathered at the Coast Tsawwassen Inn to celebrate the nominees' contributions to the community. Money raised in the live, Diamond Box and silent auctions supported the chamber.