Two local businesses gained recognition from the Crowsnest Pass region for their dedication and service to customers at the Crowsnest Pass Chamber of Commerce Awards for Small Business, Nov. 9th.

Stones’ Throw Café was awarded the Overall Business of the Year Award while Fantin’s Funeral Chapel took home Business with Most Outstanding Customer service.

“It’s nice to get a pat on the back from the community,” said Steve Atkinson, co-owner (with wife Jessica) of Stone’s Throw Café.

“It’s a nice award to win, this year being our 50th Anniversary,” said Darrell Sydora, the owner of Fantin’s Funeral Chapel.

Stone’s Throw Café also celebrated their 10th anniversary with a day of cake, visiting, gift baskets, Christmas gift bags, specialized T-Shirts and a raffle, Nov. 8th.

“A great chance to visit with people,” said Atkinson.

“It’s a nice way for us to say thank-you, for the people who helped us succeed.”

In addition, Stone’s Throw Café and the Women’s Resource Centre are putting together a Christmas Hamper and Toy Drive.

If you drop off new and unwrapped toys for babies to teenagers before or on the day of Nov.16 you have a chance to brighten a child’s holidays.

“Really excited to do it. We have children and we see the importance that all children have gifts (this Christmas),” said Atkinson.

Stone’s Throw will accept donations (even cash is accepted) anytime, until the middle of December, Atkinson said.

Stone’s Throw Café also wants you to know that if you shop local this holiday season you can enter to win a tray of festive baking which will go to the Women’s Resource Centre where they will be delivered to the appropriately aged children, according to Stone’s Throw.