On the night of August 15th, the Oakland Park Business Association welcomed its guests for an awards ceremony. The occasion marked a celebration of outstanding professionals, a testament to the thriving community.
The inaugural “Best in Business People’s Choice Awards” marks the Oakland Park Business Association’s first foray into the realm of annual business recognition. The community nominated remarkable businesses and individuals across diverse categories, culminating in the unveiling of a select group of nominees. The final voting surpassed expectations, with over 2,000 votes cast in support of candidates before the voting period concluded in May.
A Night of Accomplishment
Amidst an atmosphere charged with joy, the venue transformed into a hub of recognition and camaraderie. The event resonated with the spirit of appreciation and achievement as esteemed guests converged to applaud the finest in Oakland Park.
Hosted at Chainbridge Distillery, guests enjoyed finger foods and a cocktail tower. The ambiance set the stage for a convivial gathering. Friends of the community, from business leaders to residents, mingled, sharing stories and forging connections.
Honoring Oakland Park's Excellence
The event served as a platform to unveil the Best of the Year 2023 award. A momentous occasion unfolded as Michael Murphy received the Business Icon of the Year in Oakland Park. With a legacy etched in innovation and perseverance, Murphy’s remarkable journey has left an indelible mark on the community. His leadership, dedication, and trailblazing spirit have set a benchmark for excellence, inspiring others to follow suit.
In another moment of well-deserved recognition, Désirée Ávila, the editor of Living in Oakland Park, won the title of the best real estate professional in Oakland Park. Her unwavering commitment to the community and exceptional expertise have not only elevated her own standing but have also enriched the lives of countless residents. Désirée shared “I am deeply humbled by this award. My commitment to my community comes from the heart. I never knew I could do so much, but I am happy that I can and look forward to helping more and more! “
>A Community United
The celebration underscored the unity of Oakland Park’s business community, emphasizing the significance of recognizing excellence and the impact of collaboration. The night was a huge success. The air was charged with a sense of accomplishment and aspiration.
While an awards celebration on the surface, the night symbolized more than that. It epitomized the spirit of Oakland Park’s continuous growth and progress. It highlighted the importance of recognizing excellence and the power of a united community.
Photo Gallery of the Best Of Oakland Park 2023
A New Board
As the ceremony reached its end, Peter Jackson, the founder and first president presented the new board. The new board members are:
Désirée Ávila | President
Charles Rutenberg Realty
Kimber White | Vice President
RE Financial Services
Monica Couso | Secretary
Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Center
Andy Rogow | Treasurer
First Southeast Mortgage Corporation
Peter Jackson | Founder & Past President
Peter Jackson Media
Owen Marr
Lowe’s Home Improvement
John Gugliemi, VP of Business Development
Chase Roofing
Christopher Baker | Co-owner, Director of Business Development
Visuals by Momo
Meet the Winners of the Evening
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Rother's Auto Repair
Best Auto Repair Shop
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TD Bank
Best Bank
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Dick's Service Station
Best Barber Shop
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Blondies Beauty Salon
Best Beauty Salon
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Spin Car Wash
Best Car Wash
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Maggie's Favorite
Best Coffee Shop
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G21 Fitness & Sports Performance
Best Personal Training Gym
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Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse
Best Home Improvement Store
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Park Place Spa
Best Med Spa
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Pride Center at Equality Park
Best Non-Profit/Charity
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Alexandria's Grooming
Best Pet Grooming
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Peter Pan Diner
Best Restaurant - Breakfast
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El Guanaco
Best Restaurant - Lunch
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Thai Spice
Best Restaurant - Dinner
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Poverello Thrift Store
Best Thrift Store
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J.T. - JT's Cuts Barber Shop
Best Barber
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Dr. Donna Watson - A Place of Health
Best Chiropractor
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Steven Mattair - Parks & Recreation
Best City Employee
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Dr. Howard Cunningham - Oakland Park Dental
Best Dentist
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Michelle Lindenau - Tranquil Kneads
Best Massage Therapist
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Kimber White - RE Financial Services
Best Mortgage Broker
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Desiree Avila - Charles Runtenberg Realty
Best Real Estate Prefessional
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Michael Murphy
Best Photographer
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Adam Jurgaitis - Intense Fitness
Best Personal Fitness Trainer
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Dr. Noah Lee - Midland Medical
Best Physician
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Christopher Fisher
Best Politician or Community Leader
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Chainbridge Distillery
Business of the Year 2023
