“The Rants Group has changed the landscape – they are a game changer,” said Michael Cade, the Thurston EDC’s executive director. Cade made these remarks as he announced The Rants Group as the 2010 Small Business of the Year.
”Since their founding in 1973, The Rants Group has worked to positively impact the greater Thurston County community. They operate with a simply stated goal: to make a stronger community. They have provided invaluable insights to the non-profit human services sector of Thurston County. They have provided incalculable value to the structures and landscape of the community,” said Cade.
Annually the EDC recognizes the significant role local organizations play in creating a healthy and diverse economy. “We are honored and humbled to have received this award,” said The Rants Group Founder and Chairman Ron Rants.
“The Rants Group was in good company in our category,” reflected President/CEO Pat Rants referring to finalists Vivala and Physicians of Southwest Washington.
In evaluating the more than 30 nominees, the EDC looked for innovation, entrepreneurship and commitment to community. They further characterized The Rants Group this way…
“The Rants Group…has established themselves as real estate professionals, achieving a trusted and honored reputation throughout the community. Agents have provided consistently reliable advice to investors, steering them clear of high-risk prospects. (They) have expanded their services to include the financial institutions involved in the repossession of property, speeding up transactions.
“A stronger community is their goal… Ron and Pat Rants (and Shelley Foltz) and their staff hold board seats and chair fundraisers for numerous clubs, foundations and humanitarian causes.”
The EDC presented awards in four categories. Here are finalists in the other three areas, with winners in bold.
New Business of the Year
Distribution Operations Center (DOC)
Earth Friendly Products ~ KB Associates Bookkeeping
Corporate Employer of the Year
Harbor Wholesale Grocery
Gerbing’s Heated Clothing ~ Miles Sand & Gravel
Non-Profit of the Year
SafePlace ~ South Sound Senior Services
Thurston County Food Bank
