Friday (Oct. 20) night was a time of celebration in Ponoka, as local businesses were recognized for their success and influence in the community.

The 2017 Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce Business Awards brought the town’s business world together at the Kinsmen Community Centre.

Taking home the Large Business of the Year award was Rowland Parker and Associates.

Here’s partner of the firm Tim Rowland.

“We were surprised to win tonight’s award. It means a lot to us, especially with my father being here, a second-generation business. As I said up there earlier, without them building the foundation, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

 (The team at Vantage Physiotherapy Clinic Ltd.)

Vantage Physiotherapy Clinic Ltd. had the honour of winning the Medium Business of the Year award, something owner Kenda Butterfield said is extremely humbling.

“It was very unexpected. In Ponoka, we’re a very new business, we’ve only been in town for two years. For the community to recognize us and the chamber to recognize us and for people to realize what we are doing and what we’re about is amazing. I couldn’t ask for anything more and I’m very thankful.”

(The team at Direct Travel.)

Small Business of the Year award went to Direct Travel. Manager Kahla Rakai had this to say.

“We feel honoured and blessed to have such a great community and such a great chamber and such great clients who support us in this community.”

(Ponoka Professional Pharmacy owner Jamil Rawji.)

The owner of Ponoka Professional Pharmacy Jamil Rawji was recognized as Business Person of the Year.

Born and raised in Ponoka, Rawji said receiving the award is very special.

“It means a lot actually. It defines the importance of being involved in the community and being recognized by my peers who have clearly voted and put their trust in me. It’s a great feeling.”

Kinsmen Club of Ponoka walked away with the Non-Profit Organization of year award.

Employee at Ponoka Reddi Mart, Debbie Walcheske took home the Customer Service Person of the Year award.