2022 Best of the Valley award ceremony highlights local accomplishments

PALMER — The Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman’s 2022 Best of the Valley Toast of the Town award ceremony continued the annual tradition of highlighting the finest local organizations the community has to offer.

This year’s ceremony was held at the Palmer Train Depot Wednesday, Dec. 1. it was a particularly notable occasion since this year marks the 75th anniversary of Mat-Su Valley’s sole community newspaper.

Establishments from across the community were represented in this year’s ceremony, showcasing the Valley’s diverse tapestry of successful public figures, influential decision-makers, and inspirational stewards of the community- all under the same roof sharing stories, laughs, and rounds of applause over food and drinks.

Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman General Manager Tawni Davis said this event continues to grow. She said that nearly 700,000 community members voted for their favorite establishments this year.

“You guys are great. You guys are what makes our community so special. I mean, it’s the Mat-Su Valley, we’re kind of the best of the state anyways,” Davis said.

This year’s celebration featured numerous special messages from notable groups and individuals, including the Grammy-award-winning band that was raised right here in the Mat-Su Valley, Portugal. The Man who told the crowd to hold their heads high and take pride in their home-grown accomplishments.

Current Senate Majority Leader Shelley Hughes attended the event and offered a speech.

“We have such a blessed place where we live,” Hughes said.

Senator David Wilson offered a video message congratulating all the 2022 winners and praised all the efforts from across the community.

“We live in the Mat-Su for many reasons. Whether its outdoor recreation activities, the freedoms, or the close-knit community, our people are the backbone of the Valley. The Mat-Su is one of the best places to live, work, and play. It gets better each and every year,” Wilson said.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com