Island businesspeople gathered at Rosario to celebrate local commerce and volunteer efforts.

The Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce held its annual membership meeting on Oct. 24.

The audience heard from the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau, the County Economic Development Council and students Rahchel Leach-Brim, Gwydion Marreth and Melanie Flint, who attended Washington Business Week.

There was also an overview of the chamber-sponsored Shakespeare Festival and the Bird Festival. To read about how local commerce was this summer, see the story on page one.

Every year, the chamber recognizes locals who have made a difference in the community.

Council member Rick Hughes, businessman Jeff Hanson and Salmonberry students August and Charlie were given a special “Trash Buster” award for their work in bringing public trash cans to Eastound.

Island Market received the Community Service award. This recognition is for a person or organization that makes contributions to the community a priority.

Lisa and Raul Rios of Mijitas restaurant won the Island Friendly Spirit Award for great customer service. This honor is for a business who makes customer service and the customer experience a priority.

Joe Gaydos of the SeaDoc Society won for environmental excellence, an award that goes to someone who utilizes environmentally friendly and sustainable practices in its day-to-day operations.

Outgoing chamber board president Michell Marshall recognized two community members with a president’s award for local contributions. Deborah Sparks, theatre productions director for Orcas Center, and Islanders Bank President Brad Williamson received this year’s honors.