At a packed Pennington Sun National Bank, the Pennington Economic Development and Historic Preservation Commissions hosted the 5th Annual Business of the Year Social.
The Commissions honored Flutter Boutique, former Councilman Edwin “Weed” Tucker, The Pennington School and a local family, the Czvornyeks.
Flutter Boutique was named “Pennington Business of the Year” by the Economic Development Commission (EDC). In presenting the award to Flutter owner Linda Martin, EDC chair Eric Kollevoll shared Martin’s business fashion experience, offered inspirational snippets about her personal life, and expressed gratitude for her meaningful participation as a Pennington business owner and the president of the Pennington Business & Professional Association.
“Everyday Linda brings to her business and the community a level of energy and we want to thank her for all her contributions,” said Kollevoll.
Martin expressed many thanks to the EDC, her team, her family and the community.
“I had this dream all my life and when I was finally able to pursue it, I had a clear vision of what it could be. I wanted to create a place where women could find beautiful, affordable clothing — women of any size, age, color — and where mothers and daughters could shop in one store together. We also wanted a store that was inviting — without any pressure. We want to celebrate and lift women up,'” said Martin.
Former councilman, Edwin “Weed” Tucker was also recognized for his service to the community including serving as mayor in 1976.
“I have learned a lot of things from Weed and he is one of the best citizens on council. I can’t say enough good things about him,” said Pennington mayor Tony Persichilli.
In accepting the award, Tucker humbly shared, “I am only one person on a team of many people and want to acknowledge the service of those who worked with me to do great things including the HPC and EDC and so many volunteers.”
The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) also presented two awards last night — the very first awards for the HPC.
HPC chair and local architect, Eric Holtermann shared the mission of the HPC before presenting awards.
“Some of the goals are to discourage demolition of buildings of significance, retain the historic character of Pennington and collect historic information regarding the historic homes in Pennington,” said Holtermann.
The honorable mention, “Spirit of Historic Preservation” Award, was given to local residents, the Czvornyeks, who were the first applicants before the HPC two years ago. They were recognized for recreating their historic entrance with the guidance of the Commission.
In receiving the award, Chris Czvornyek shared that he was originally skeptical about the Historic Commission when it was established however feels that they not only execute the rules but also operate under the spirit of the reason why it was established, to preserve the character of Pennington and offer guidance to its residence.
And lastly, The Pennington School was offered the annual Historic Commission award for their preservation of the Wesley Alumni House. The school relocated and restored the historic building on West Delaware and while accommodating space for the new building currently being built on the campus. Members of The Pennington School talked about the significance of the Wesley Alumni House and its part in The Pennington School history.
Congratulations to all recognized for their hard work and dedication to Pennington!
