Indian River Chamber Honors Local Companies

Sep. 22, 2017

The Economic Development Division of the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce celebrated the achievements of local companies at its annual Industry Appreciation Awards luncheon. Two hundred people attended the sold-out event held at the Indian River State College Richardson Center. Eighteen businesses were recognized for their architectural achievements and their positive impact on our community.  Florida Power & Light sponsored the event.  

Bill Penney, President and CEO of Marine Bank & Trust, and Chairman the Chamber’s Economic Leadership Alliance, served as Master of Ceremonies for the event.  Helene Caseltine, the Chamber’s Economic Development Director, explained that “the awards program is an important component of the Chamber’s overall business retention program and our goal of job creation.  We show our appreciation to local businesses that have made a positive impact in our community during the past year, either through architectural achievements or by way of community involvement and economic impact.” Anna Valencia-Tillery with White Glove Moving, Storage & Delivery Chairs the Industry Appreciation Awards Committee and shared the podium by announcing the Architectural Recognition awards. 

The Chamber’s Company of the Year award recognizes local businesses that stimulate the Indian River County economy, make contributions back to the community, provide quality year-round employment, and have an overall positive impact on our county. The local branch of Caliber Home Loans was named Small Company of the year, while Dale Sorensen Real Estate and Oak Harbor Club were honored as the Chamber’s 2017 Medium and Large Company of the Year, respectively, based on employment levels. 

The Chamber’s Minority Business of the Year was awarded to Marsh Landing Restaurant, owned and operated by Fran Adams and her daughter, County Commissioner Susan Adams.  

The Entrepreneur of the Year award recognizes firms that have been in business for less than five years and show increased growth and a true entrepreneurial spirit, while overcoming challenges and becoming a good corporate citizen.  Alan Dritenbas and Mike Malone, owners of Walking Tree Brewery, were recognized as the Chamber’s 2017 Entrepreneurs of the Year. 

The Chamber’s Manufacturer of the Year award considers growth of the company, quality of the jobs, its economic impact, and sales that are primarily outside our region or state, making them a contributory company.  The 2017 Manufacturer of the Year was presented to Perfect Stix, which produces high-quality wooden products for a wide variety of uses, such as ice cream and popsicle sticks, tongue depressors, coffee stirrers, and paint paddles.

Architectural Recognition awards were also presented.  Award criteria includes:  impact on immediate area; building’s unique features; and the building or project being “user friendly”.  Please click here for the full media release, or here to view a complete list of award recipients.