Community members, business owners, and many others gathered for a sold-out event at LeMay — America’s Car Museum last night to celebrate the Best of South Sound 2025.
Excited guests and winners mixed and mingled before the event, munching on charcuterie and small bites provided by Act 3 Catering.
The event kicked off with a few words from South Sound Editor-in-Chief Lisa Patterson, who thanked the artist Chris Britt for designing the Best of issue’s cover. Britt was also in attendance to sign copies of the magazine.
Event emcees Bob Cody and Ty Ray were introduced by Alicia Williams of Targa Real Estate Services. Announcements began with recognition of the title sponsor, Umpqua Bank, and supporting sponsors Financial Insights Wealth Management, United States X Advisors Washington, Targa Real Estate Services, Inc., Heritage Bank, Cascade Eye & Skin Centers, Infiniti of Tacoma at Fife, Touchstone TMS, and Chambers Bay.
Other thanks went out to Watson’s Greenhouse & Nursery for the floral arrangements, Smooth Groove Productions for sound and mixing, Original House of Donuts, and Brown & Haley for treats provided to guests. Service sponsors Hardcastle AV and MadCap Marketing + Creative were also thanked.
Before winners were announced, Ahndrea Blue, founder of the Making a Difference Foundation and Eloise’s Cooking Pot, was recognized as this year’s Citizen of the Year by Heath McLellan of Heritage Bank. Blue, whose food bank, Eloise’s, has been helping those struggling with food insecurity in the South Sound for years, offering pick-up and delivery services for its clients.
A Look at the Event
Blue went up to the stage and shared the story of Eloise’s humble beginnings, recognizing the many hands that have helped the food bank become so successful. Blue also thanked her dedicated staff and students involved with the Making Our Future program.
Blue concluded by expressing gratitude for her sisters and late father, and dedicated her win to her mother, who was also in attendance.
“Every tear, every sob, every disappointment, you stay up with me. And I thank you. This is not only an award for Ahndrea as citizen of the year — let me introduce you guys to a citizen of the year,” Blue said as her mother stood up, garnering much applause from the audience.
Following the Citizen of the Year recognition were Best of winner announcements for the eager crowd.
After all the honorees were announced and photos had been taken, guests departed with awards in hand and hands full of boxes of doughnuts, Almond Roca, and cookies.
See the complete list of winners here