Mount Vernon-based businesses, businesspeople recognized

Members of the Skagit Valley Chamber of Commerce gathered Thursday to celebrate Mount Vernon's businesses and businesspeople for the chamber's 2026 Awards Dinner at the Swinomish Casino & Lodge.

During the event, attendees networked and dined on salmon and chicken.

"This event really is one of my favorites, because we're recognizing incredible people and businesses, but it's also a chance to step back and appreciate what the chamber community really represents," said Chamber President/CEO Andy Mayer.

The award winners were:

* Ambassador of the Year: Triumph Teen Life Center Executive Director Silvia Alvarez

* Rising Star Award: All Colors Painting LLC

* Resilience Award: Tri Dee Arts

* Legacy Award: Sound Cedar Lumber owner Robert Desmarais

* Making a Difference Award: Community Action of Skagit County

* Business Person of the Year: Express Employment Professionals franchise owner Mark Hagen

* Business of the Year: Global Credit Union

While all the winners received applause, Desmarais received a standing ovation for his acceptance speech.

"This is my community," Desmarais said, choked up. "When I had the Red Apple, we really, really struggled. I actually lost it ... I was still donating, but that's what I loved about being in business: being able to give back."

For more information about the Skagit Valley Chamber of Commerce and its upcoming events, visit skagitvalleychamber.com.

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