The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

WAITSBURG-This year's Business of the Year is Nancy's Dream Garden, owned by Janet Biolo Lawrence and her brother Doug Biolo. The business was nominated by Waitsburg City Council member Jillian Henze who presented the award.

From providing beautiful plants and trees to hosting the Waitsburg Friday Market, Henze noted how the business had contributed to the town. After moving to the current location, the garden center has worked towards expanding its operations. It is a work in progress that hasn't slowed down bringing beauty and community to Waitsburg.

Roseann Groom was awarded Employee of the Year having been nominated by Karen Huwe. Students, parents, and faculty know the commitment that Roseann has put into her role at the school district. Huwe said, "She is always there for her students, from teaching freshmen leadership to preparing seniors for graduation."

She comes in early and on weekends to be fully prepared for class. Somehow Roseanne finds the time to travel to support student athletes on the road.

Joy Smith won the Community Service Award for her years of work promoting and supporting Waitsburg, the residents, and the businesses.

Bev Rising of Banner Bank was honored by the Commercial Club for her many years of working with the chambers of Waitsburg and Dayton. Joy Smith said, "She always showed up at events to be our "personal Banker."

Doug Hinds, who recently retired from Pacific Power, was celebrated for all he's done for the Waitsburg and Dayton communities. He went to "great heights" to hang seasonal banners at Christmastime and hang elementary school students' ornaments on the community Christmas trees in the two communities.