Twelve individuals and companies who have contributed to the community were honored by the South Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce at a ceremony Sept. 4. The banquet was held at the Natural History Museum of Utah.

Chamber officials, led by president Tereza Bagdasarova, introduced each of the winners after guests had enjoyed a catered buffet, a drink bar and music. 

The major award winners were Level Crossing Brewing Company–Small Business of the Year; and Westminster Center for Financial Wellness at Westminster University–Chamber Member of the Year. Both were highlighted in the printed program given to each of the banquet guests. Here were the other winners feted:

Contento Cafe was honored at Downtown Business of the Year. It was praised for its gluten-free, seed oil-free and organic approach to Mexican cuisine.

The Creative Industry Award was presented to Space and Faders, a 13,000-square-foot compound for artists to grow their crafts, from music to art and photography,

James Wayman, sales manager at Sam’s Club, was named Chamber Champion. Besides his efforts at the Sam’s Club store, he is active in the community in supporting schools, law enforcement and various organizations.

The Cultural Catalyst Impact award went to owners of Salt Lake City Chinatown, a 5.7-acre shopping and cultural district celebrating Utah’s Asian community.

Abstract Development Group, a real-estate development firm, was presented the Small Business Advocate award for its efforts in helping new ground-up developments.

The Community Impact Champion award went to Cyprus Credit Union. The credit union was praised for its business-friendly programs for members.

Noella Sudbury, founder and CEO of Rasa Legal, was named Woman of the Year. She heads a mission-driven legal tech company working to simplify expungement, sealing and rights restoration.

Catherine Wiegard, a teacher at Olene Walker Elementary, was named Business Educator of the Year. She was praised for her influence “far beyond academics” according to principal school Ahahi Uhlig.

The Legacy Business of the Year is Town and Country Market, a nearly four-decade old community grocer known for its commitment to freshness and flavor.

Blaser Ventures was presented the Downtown Visionary award. The real estate developer and investor has brought national investment experience to the Salt Lake market.