Kevin Cooper and Cheryl Gaddie

Keith Martin and Paul Orth accepted the Large Business of the Year Award for Badger Bob’s Air Conditioning Repair. “It’s just nice to see that all our hard work pays off,” said Martin. “It’s nice to be recognized by the community for our efforts.”

Mia Leone, of the UPS Store, won the Shining Star Award for going above and beyond the expectations of an employer. “I was very surprised,” said Leone. “Every day, I go to work and I get closer and closer to these people. We become better friends. I’m so honored that they would nominate me.”

Lynda Hall and Kathy Shumway accepted the Outstanding Small Business Award on behalf of Green Ginger Hair Design. “It’s not just the work of one person,” said owner Gordon Hall. “It’s the great work by these girls. There’s a real shortage of quality hairdressers out there, but I’ve got my fair share.”

Christine Tuchman and Norm Mallard

Jessica Stevens and Steve Queior

Keith Martin and Cheryl Gaddie

Lam and Selina Lum

Tommy Kouvatsos, Cheryl Gaddie and Brad Stewart

Aimee Holmes with Kay and Tommy Kouvatsos

Claudette and Al Giever

Cheryl Gaddie and Mark Smith

Brad Stewart, of Captain Curt’s Crab & Oyster restaurant, won the Business Person of the Year Award. “It’s quite an honor,” said Stewart, “especially to be selected from this group of people. I love Siesta Key; I love the people working out here. To be recognized like this is quite an honor.”