Castlegar’s business community celebrated each other’s achievements at the Castlegar and District Chamber of Commerce’s Business Excellence Awards on Saturday.
Mickey and Sharon Tarasoff were recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award for their 48 years of operating Mother Natures.
The Tarasoffs’ children Mike and Shawna have also played an important role in the business.
Shawna’s work building a stronger downtown business coalition and her I ♥ Downtown initiative were recognized by Castlegar mayor Bruno Tassone during the award presentation speech.
“Both Mickey and Sharon work with passion in an industry to help people live better lives,” said Tassone.
“We are fortunate to share business longevity with many others,” said Mickey. “Thank you to the community for all the years of support.”
He then encouraged entrepreneurs to dream, work hard and follow their passions.
The remaining awards went to:
Business Excellence — Castlegar Toyota
Customer Service Excellence — Shawna Tarasoff, Mother Natures
Business Person of the Year — Troy Pyett and Carly Hadfield, Lions Head Pub
Green Award — Selkirk College
Professional Services Award —Arrow Lakes Veterinary
Contractor of the Year — PNT Contracting
Tourism Development — Communities in Bloom
Young Entrepreneur — Adam Pomeroy, Cycology Bikes
Community Social — Castlegar Hospice Society
Home Based Business — Rest Assured Kootenay Floats
Manager of the Year — Brian Bogle, Safeway
Restaurant Award — Wandering Greek Oven
Innovator of the Year — Conquer the Kootenay Escape Room
