Whatcom Business Alliance Reveals Finalists for 38th Annual Whatcom Business Awards

Whatcom Business Alliance Executive Director Barbara Chase, pictured at last year’s sold-out Whatcom Business Awards Black & Gold Gala, announces finalists and winners in each category. Photo credit: Sattva Photo.
Whatcom Business Alliance Executive Director Barbara Chase, pictured at last year’s sold-out Whatcom Business Awards Black & Gold Gala, announces finalists and winners in each category. Photo credit: Sattva Photo.

BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON. – The Whatcom Business Alliance (WBA) has unveiled the finalists for the 38th Annual Whatcom Business Awards, set to take place on March 27, 2025. This prestigious event will celebrate local businesses and leaders for their exceptional contributions to the community, highlighting the diversity of talent and innovation within the Bellingham, WA and Whatcom County area.

The awards ceremony will be held at the Hotel Bellwether at the Bellingham Waterfront, where finalists will be honored during a gala evening. The winners in each category will be announced, marking a significant milestone for those recognized for their achievements.

Business Person of the Year Finalists:

Four prominent figures in the local business community have been selected as finalists for Business Person of the Year. Among them are Brad Barron of Barron Plumbing & Heating, Ty McClellan of Hardware Sales, Trip Randall of Superfeet Worldwide, and Stowe Talbot of Talbot Group. Each finalist has been recognized for their leadership and outstanding contributions to business excellence in the region.

Small Business of the Year Finalists:

The competition for Small Business of the Year is equally fierce, with Avenue Bread, Bellingham Bay Builders, Stemma Brewing, and Summit Bookkeeping all making the cut. These businesses have demonstrated exceptional resilience, innovation, and commitment to customer service in their respective industries.

Start-Up Business of the Year Finalists:

Newer businesses making a splash in the community are also in the running, with Bloomhaven Bottle Shop, Cooper Northwest, Create it Studio, and King of Kings Window Cleaning all vying for the title of Start-Up Business of the Year. These finalists exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit of Whatcom County and its growing business sector.

Lifetime Achievement Award:

The Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Mike Hammes of RAM Construction, acknowledging his long-standing contributions to both the business community and local infrastructure. Hammes’ commitment to building a stronger community through his work has earned him this distinguished recognition.

Jon B. Strong Employee of the Year:

In memory of the late Jon B. Strong, a revered figure in the Whatcom business community, the Jon B. Strong Employee of the Year Award will be given to Jennifer Boer of Mount Baker Vision Clinic. Boer’s exceptional work ethic and dedication to her profession have made her an invaluable asset to her organization and the community at large.

Public Service Award:

This year, the Public Service Award will go to John Perry, the Mayor of Everson, WA. His efforts in public service have had a lasting impact on the region, demonstrating the power of collaboration between local government and the private sector to foster growth and success.

The Whatcom Business Alliance will continue to honor these leaders at the March gala, providing an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship that drives the success of Whatcom County businesses.

As the event approaches, excitement is building around the recognition of these exceptional individuals and businesses that have shaped the local economy and continue to inspire others to achieve greatness.

This is a Bellingham Metro News original article – Stay Tuned for More News from around Bellingham Washington and Whatcom County.


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