Last night it was Ponoka and District’s turn to recognize the contributions local businesses make to the community, with the annual Business of the Year awards.

Awards were presented in eight categories with Almita Piling Inc. picking up Industrial Business of the Year, Ponoka Fertilizer won Agricultural Business of the Year and Non- Profit Business of the Year went to the Ponoka Kinsmen Club.

Judy Dick with Ponoka News was honored for her many volunteer efforts in the community and was awarded Business Person of the Year Award, a first she says in 30 years.

“It’s just a great feeling, I have great staff and the community has been wonderful to work with. We are a free publication and the support we get from the businesses is next to none. I can’t thank them enough and I’m going into my 30th anniversary, so we will see what happens and go from there.”

Allie Biever with Altitude Laser Spa won Service Person of the Year, the only category to be voted on by the community.

“It means so much to know that people recognize the work that I do. I don’t just sit at the front desk and answer phones and say hello, it’s real and its personal connections. I think that’s what really makes a customer service person.”

ATB won Large Business of the Year, Tantect Electronic picked up Medium Business of the Year and Flowers for You won the Small Business of the Year award.