Event recognizes area business

The Better Business Bureau announces its 18th annual Torch Awards for Shreveport-Bossier City and surrounding areas.

The Torch Awards were created to recognize businesses and non-profit organizations who have gained the respect of the communities they serve, using integrity and ethical business practices, said Robin Guenard, vice president/director of operations.

The featured speaker is Byron Dawson, head football coach for Centenary College.

This year’s nominees are:

Integrity Category

• Johnson’s Furniture

• Elite Business Resources

• Rice and Kendig Law Firm

• Gemco Building Systems

• Town & Country Electric

• Pioneer Comfort Systems

• Fastsigns

Customer Commitment

• Crockett Street Trading

• On Time Fashion

• Shouse Collision Repair and Frame Center

• Jump! Swim School

• Power & Grace School of Performing Arts

• TeamLogic IT

• Jolley Services

• North Market Venue

• Always Best Care Senior Services

Non-Profit Category

• Northwest Louisiana Fellowship of Christian Athletes

• The Strand Theatre

• Providence House

• United Way of Northwest Louisiana

• Northwest Louisiana St. Jude Classic

• Gingerbread House

• Volunteers for Youth Justice

The Torch Award Luncheon is Oct. 31 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at East Ridge Country Club. Call the BBB office at 797-1330, ext. 102, to make reservations. Sponsor tables are also available. Deadline for reservations is Oct. 18.

Proceeds go toward student scholarships at local universities and colleges.