Award Winners Named at Stunning April 21 Gala

Nearly 350 Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce members, community stakeholders, awards finalists, and their supporters filled the Skookum Creek Event Center at Little Creek Casino Resort on Friday, April 21, for the Chamber’s 101st Annual Meeting & and Awards Gala. The crowd gathered to recognize excellence, celebrate the successes of the past year, witness the installation of the Chamber board, honor the award finalists, and await the announcement of the winners.

In her welcoming remarks, Chamber President & CEO Deidre Peterson effused, “Mason County brims with innovative entrepreneurs, compassionate individuals, and collaborative efforts. We are fortunate to gather in celebrating the extraordinary businesses and people who are making our community better.”

She then introduced the evening’s top sponsors, noting that the night was made possible thanks to their generous support. A word was shared by Little Creek Casino Resort COO Steve Griffiths; Reception Sponsor Nolberto Chavez of Beko’s Trees & Wood Carving, Print Sponsor Kelsie Rudnick of The Shopper, Photography Sponsor Amy & Forrest Cooper of Cooper Studios, and Podium Sponsor Karen Schade spoke on behalf of herself and fellow Edward Jones Financial Advisor Lori Morgan.

Prior to the first course, Champagne Sponsor Brad McCutcheon of Bradley Air Company took his time at the stage to share gratitude for the Chamber and the community. Toast Sponsor Melanie Bakala of State Farm Insurance delivered an Ode to 2022 highlighting the momentous occasions and milestones reached, proclaiming “Growth is on the horizon. Our community will thrive in these next years. Let’s raise a glass to ‘23 and to our future give a big cheers!”

Guests enjoyed a four-course meal, paired with wines, which were sponsored by The Optical Shop of WA, EI. Kristyn & Son Construction, Inc., and Prime Legal Services. The menu showcased Little Creek’s culinary skills and made an upscale, seasonal spin on classic fare. A salad with pickled blackberries & crispy pork belly was followed by prosciutto wrapped prawns, a gorgonzola and roasted garlic stuffed filet, and impressive trios of dessert or cheeses.

Peterson reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to serve as a catalyst for business growth, a convener of leaders and influencers, and a champion for a strong community. She detailed a few of the successes the organization achieved during 2022 including: a record high membership, launching a program for members to make a voluntary contribution of 10% above their regular dues investment to provide support during difficult times, increased engagement and meaningful opportunities for members and volunteers to plug-in, and continuing to advocating on issues that matter.

The 2023 Chamber Board was officially installed by the Honorable George Steele. Then leadership surprised Peterson with a token of appreciation for her efforts since taking the helm at the organization last fall, moving the organization into a new era.

The culminating event, of course, was the awards presentation by Peterson 2022 Chamber Board Chair Tanya Frazier of Crossroads Housing and Martha Reed Foundation. All of the finalists were highlighted with a video touting their accomplishments and the winners were named: Chairperson’s Choice Bert & Susan Kirchoff; Volunteer of the Year John Lester; Nonprofit of the Year Shelton Family YMCA; Rookie of the Year O’Connell Archery; Citizen of the Year Justin Baze; Boss of the Year Gina Finley; and Business of the Year Bradley Air Company.

Finally, 2023 Chamber Board Chair Kyle Skarra of Builders FirstSource closed the evening by extending his congratulations to all of the award finalists and thanking the event sponsors, LCCR team, and Chamber staff & volunteers.

Read more about all of our finalists in the commemorative issue of Business Matters, in the April 27 Shelton-Mason County Journal.