RAYMOND — A family-owned hardware store was praised for being “ever reliable” though generations while a growing coffee and floral business was regarded as “just what the community needed,” as businesses new and old were honored at the annual Pacific County Economic Development Council Business of the Year ceremony Thursday, Oct. 12, at the Raymond Elks Lodge.
Don Nisbett Art Gallery was selected by Ilwaco Merchants Association as the first award winner. Don and Jenna Nisbett accepted the award from outgoing EDC president Toni Williams, who called the couple “true ambassadors for the region” for generously donating art and merchandise for local fundraising events.
“I couldn’t be Don Nesbitt without Queen La-Di-Da,” Don Nisbett said referring to his wife, Jenna, standing next to him at the podium upon receiving the award.
Jacci and Darren Dyer, owners of Kenanna RV Park & Campground, who’ve embraced a motto as “Friendliest Park on the Washington Coast,” took home the second award of the night. Selected by the Tokeland-North Cove Chamber of Commerce, the Dyers were praised for their hands-on approach to improving the park and playing a vital role in the tourism sector of the Pacific County economy. Jacci attributed the chamber for their help in achieving success.
“We all work together as a team,” she said.
The next award went to a business who the Pacific County EDC South Committee felt served an important role for the Port of Ilwaco fishing fleets: Englund Marine & Industrial Supply.
“For more than 50 years Englund Marine has demonstrated a commitment to serving those in our community,” said incoming EDC President Guy Glenn Jr., who accepted the award on their behalf.
The fourth award of the evening was presented to Elixir Café and Floral Design, a small business in South Bend that is adaptable in fulfilling a community need. Selected by Willapa Harbor Chamber of Commerce, Williams said Nancy Nisbet’s business was “just what this community needs.” Nisbet credited her “terrific team” of co-workers for making the award possible.
The next award went to Anita’s Coastal Café in Ocean Park, whose owner Anita Moe was praised as “an inspirational story of talent, perseverance and willingness to take a risk.” Chosen by the Ocean Park Chamber of Commerce, Glenn said Moe has worked in restaurants since age 13.
The Dennis Company, selected by Pacific County EDC North Committee, was honored as a family-owned store that has been a place to find “virtually anything” and “ever reliable” since 1905. Responsible for employing more than 50 people in Pacific County, the business has been instrumental in civic improvement projects.
The final award of the evening went to Oman & Son Builders Supply, selected by the Long Beach Merchants Association. The building supply business was honored for helping the Peninsula continue to reach its full potential while helping keeping jobs and money in Pacific County.
“Their financial and moral support for the community makes Oman & Son a good neighbor and valuable partner,” Glenn said.