Each spring, the Lacey South Sound Chamber hosts their Annual Business Awards to recognize some of Thurston County’s finest. This year’s festivities, with help from presenting sponsor FastSigns and media sponsor Pardiman Productions, took place on February 7, 2024, at the Indian Summer Golf & Country Club and honored nominees in seven distinct categories.
2024 Business Award Nominees and Winners
Think Chamber First
Jeff Seeman, PC Technologies
winner: Nichole Woolsey, American Cancer Society
Cecilia Felix, Re/Max Four Seasons
Community Service
North Thurston Education Foundation
winner: Christine Forrey – Keller Williams South Sound
TVW
Customer Service Award
Lili Stead, Mary Kay Consultant
winner: Vert Chiropractic
Second Shift Cook
Armed Forces Champion Award
winner: Eric Zabala State Farm
America’s Credit Union
Entrepreneur of the Year
Ikonic Wings
winner: Oly Wines
Managed Moments Media
Legacy Award
winner: Pardiman ProductionsUS Martial Arts Center
Nisqually Red Wind Casino
Business of the Year
Lacey Parks & Recreation
winner: Ricardo’sHouse of Donuts
Honoring the Business Owners Who Keep South Sound Strong
A community’s strength is rooted in its entrepreneurs and hard-working business owners. Whether a neighborhood mom and pop shop, locally owned franchise, start-up or multi-generational company, they provide jobs, keep dollars within our region and are an opportunity for creativity and civic pride.
More than just an excuse to network, mingle and enjoy a good party, the Lacey South Sound Chamber Annual Business Awards showcase and spotlight some of the hardest working folks in our region, says Executive Director Blake Knoblauch. On behalf of all the nominees, winner Christine Forrey wanted to thank the Chamber for all they do.
“As a proud recipient of the Community Service Award in 2024 and Think Chamber First award in 2023, I am deeply honored and grateful for the recognition,” says Forrey. “The Chamber’s unwavering support and commitment to local businesses are invaluable, fostering growth, collaboration and success within our community. These awards serve as a testament to the Chamber’s dedication to recognizing and celebrating excellence, inspiring me to continue making a positive impact through service and innovation.”
“The Lacey South Sound Chamber plays a pivotal role in the local business community by providing essential support, resources and networking opportunities for businesses of all sizes,” Forrey continues. “Their advocacy efforts, educational programs, and community events create a thriving environment for businesses to grow and succeed. The Chamber acts as a catalyst for economic development, collaboration and innovation, strengthening the business community and enhancing the overall quality of life in the region.”
“I am very honored to be recognized for the businesses longevity and innovation over the last 20 years,” Corey Lopardi of Pardiman Production agrees. “Our membership in the Chamber of Commerce has been a big part of our success over the years, connecting us to customers through networking and exposure at Chamber events.”
Ed Schlich, founder of Oly Wines, says the awards were an inspiration as their team looks ahead. “I was really honored to win the Entrepreneur of the Year award. It encouraged me to continue with my business and to invest more financially and personally. The reaction from the community has been outstanding. I’m continuing to increase my inventory, develop the Saturday Tastings and add even more events to our calendar.”
Building a Strong Economic Future with the Lacey South Sound Chamber
The Lacey South Sound Chamber maintains a five-fold vision, which looks to build community, provide economic growth opportunities and accessible business resources, create impactful connections and remain an engaged partner on the journey. They have more than 350 members and proudly represent every business sector.
Consider joining the Lacey South Sound Chamber today or check out their posted calendar of events for upcoming activities. Not a business owner? That’s okay! Don’t forget that the Chamber is much more than just a business hub. They’re the driving force behind such family-friendly fan favorites as the South Sound BBQ Festival, Golf Classic, Read Around Lacey and Winter Fest: Sip, Savor, Shop.
Whether you’re looking to hire an artisan or service partner or just deciding what to do over Spring Break, check out the Chamber’s business directory. They can also help you Discover Lacey and provide a map of Places to Discover around town. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram or submit questions about upcoming activities. Then shop local in thanks for all those who run the stores, restaurants, services and activities that make the South Sound great.
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