Abbotsford News Thursday, November 8, 2012
C E L E B R AT I N G A B B O T S F O R D ’ S O U T S TA N D I N G B U S I N E S S L E A D E R S !
Mt. Lehman Winery
Cyrus Centre
2011 Agriculture and Agri-Business of the Year Award
2011 Non-Profit Business of the Year Award Cyrus Centre is a non-profit agency providing services for at-risk and homeless youth. “We provide services such as shelter, meals, mediation, outreach, schooling, and so much more. Our services are offered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” says director Les Talvio. The centre serves youth from all walks of life. Some are homeless, sexually exploited, living in poverty, and others come because they feel it is a place where they fit in. The centre also extends services to families, siblings, and babies of teen moms. Cyrus Centre was the winner of the 2011 Non-Profit Business Award. It does not rely on government funding,
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but rather is supported by local businesses, service groups, churches and regular citizens. It still needs Abbotsford’s continual support.
“Business is busier and our wines are selling out,” says Vern Siemens – farmer, winemaker and proprietor for Mt. Lehman Winery.
“Winning the award was very surprising and humbling. It meant we were making a difference. It really added credibility to who we are and what we do, and assures donors that we are good stewards with the funds received,” said Talvio.
Siemens’ interest in wine-making began as a hobby, and after his family opened the business three years ago, Mt. Lehman Winery has become a well-known local and tourist destination in Abbotsford, offering winetasting and vineyard tours.
Since last year, the agency has added a new initiative, “Roofs 4 Youth,” which focuses on providing Abbotsford’s homeless youth with accommodation. This includes an emergency youth shelter, an extreme weather shelter, and housing assistance.
ho are ons to all w llence Award! ti la tu ra g n and co ess Exce for a Busin providing nominated 0th year of 3 r u o d te n and t celebra t to childre c a p Having jus im e iv pired by ith posit we are ins y, e services w ll a V r e ortunities. the Fras orld of opp w families in a h it w future a bright
area,” said Siemens. The winery has 17 acres of a variety of grapes, and has expansion in mind. The Siemens are always trying new techniques, and will soon be releasing new vintages.
It was the recipient of last year’s Agriculture and Agri-Business of the Year award.
The family organically farms their own grapes, and also sources grapes from vineyards in the Okanagan Valley. Their winery has won 22 awards, including the 2011 Lieutenant Governors Award of Excellence for their Viognier.
“Winning the award was such an honour and affirmation, because we were recognized as a well-run business, letting the public know who we are and what we do. People aren’t always aware that this is a wine-growing
“The medals and awards showcase us to the community. Our business is about serving the community, and we just want to thank everyone for such a positive community response,” stated Siemens.
Business Excellence award recipients are Leaders in their industry with a commitment to Customer Service, a concern for the Community, and a passion for Innovation.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
TICKETS ON
SALE NOW
Individual ticket: $62 | Table of 8: $496 (prices are subject to HST)
PRESENTED BY:
Chamber of Commerce abbotsford
PLATINUM SPONSORS:
C7