Norwalk Economic Development Corp. awards

NORWALK — On Thursday, the Norwalk Economic Development Corp. celebrated 20 years of economic prosperity by honoring several people and businesses at Sandy Ridge Winery. Among the honorees for the annual event were: • Steve Euton, Norwalk City Council's president and longtime corporation board member, received the Pushing the Envelope Award for his years of service in building a strong public-private partnership with the city of Norwalk and the corporation. • The Loft at 36 Eleven, a women's clothing store in uptown Norwalk, won the Innovation Award for its continual efforts to keep its Main Street business storefront fresh and growing. • Ken Ganley Automotive Group won the Golden Maple Business Achievement Award for its $10 million-plus investment in facilities in Norwalk, transforming the city's northern corridor. • Mi Pueblo Mexican and Latin Grocery won the Entreprenurial Spirit Award for taking a risk in the community and successfully opening its brick-and-mortar operation with plans to expand already within the first year. Sarah Ross, the corporation's executive director, said the awards are a vital part of what her organization does. "For the community, it's an important reminder of why we invest in economic development," Ross said. "We are celebrating the things that set us apart from other communities. This is also another way in which we build pride and meaningful relationships." Award winners said they were pleased to have been recognized. "It's something amazing," said Tonya Hernandez of Mi Pueblo, which has been in business for a little more than a year. Hernandez also said her family is grateful for the support they receive in Norwalk. Courtney Winkler, owner of The Loft at 36 Eleven said she too was thrilled to receive an award. "This means a lot to me," Winkler said. "One of our focus areas is to better the community and give back so this award was really nice." Euton, president of Norwalk City Council since 2006 said awards like the ones given out Thursday night are important because they help motivate people to get involved in community activities. "These kinds of things offer a positive reinforcement for folks to serve," Euton said. John Decker, Ganely's general manager, said his company is thrilled to be recognized. "We feel very appreciated by the community," Decker said. "It means a lot."