Thanks to EDC, local businesses honored

And the winner is...

Manatee County's Economic Development Council for its solid belief in this community. Each year, the EDC honors companies with its "Excellence in Industry" awards. OK, so times are tough. That only prompted the EDC to champion this recognition even more, culminating in today's luncheon.

Each year, I'm reminded how much business is generated within Manatee County that has global impact. The lunch crowd was smaller this year, but it still filled the Bradenton city auditorium. And the most notable thread through all the acceptance speeches was "family." Whether by blood or community, each winner talked of family and promise.

Mixon Fruit Farms has been here for 70 years, founded by the Mixons' grandfather. Their loyal employees' average age: 65.

MyUS.com has grown to reach 30,000 customers in all corners of the world in just 10 years.

Robrady Design helps create products from people's dreams. How cool is that?

Galati Yacht Sales, founded in 1970, has five siblings running the company. They've been in Manatee County all their lives, and love it.

Gould & Lamb, a medical bill processor, is one of the fastest-growing companies in the country. And they're based right here.

The Bradenton Herald's business staff produced a special section on the winners -- kept under tight security, of course -- that we handed out at the luncheon. You'll find it in Thursday's editions, and here online. Key in producing the sections were Business Editor Jennifer Rich and Night/Sports Editor Kamon Simpson. It's our way of paying tribute to stellar local companies.

Joan