Olney Chamber of Commerce Announces 2024 Award Recipients
Olney, MD – March 24, 2025 – The Olney Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes outstanding local businesses, professionals, and public safety officials with the 2024 Chamber of Commerce Awards. These annual honors celebrate individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership, community service, and dedication to making Olney a thriving place to live and work.
2024 Award Recipients:
Young Professionals of the Year – Walter Giusti & Sofia Taramona, Pegasus General Contractors
Business of the Year – Christopher’s Hardware & Garden Center
Business Leader of the Year – Sean Stanfield, What’s Up Promotions
Olney Public Safety Award – Chief George W. Brown, Jr., SSVFD Chief Emeritus & Life Member
Olney Public Safety Award – Officer Sean McKinney, Montgomery County Police Department
Honoring Excellence in Business & Leadership
The Young Professionals of the Year Award celebrates Walter Giusti & Sofia Taramona, both raised in Olney and deeply committed to their community. Walter, the founder of Pegasus General Contractors, and Sofia, a successful esthetician and Chamber volunteer, have supported numerous local initiatives, sponsored Chamber events, and contributed to community organizations, making them well-deserving recipients of this recognition.
The Business of the Year Award goes to Christopher’s Hardware & Garden Center, a family-owned business that has become a cornerstone of the Olney community. Their recent expansion, combined with their exceptional service, customer care, and local involvement, showcases their dedication to the region’s growth and well-being.
Sean Stanfield, owner of What’s Up Promotions, is recognized as Business Leader of the Year for his unwavering support of the Chamber and the local business community. Through sponsorships, committee involvement, and direct contributions, Sean has helped strengthen business connections, recruit new Chamber members, and ensure the success of key community events such as Olney Community Day and National Night Out.
Recognizing Our Public Safety Heroes
The Olney Public Safety Award honors Officer Sean McKinney for his exemplary courage and investigative skills in a high-risk law enforcement operation that resulted in the successful arrest of a dangerous suspect and the removal of illegal firearms from the community. His leadership, quick decision-making, and commitment to justice embody the highest standards of law enforcement.
Also receiving the Olney Public Safety Award is Chief George W. Brown, Jr., who has dedicated over six decades to fire and rescue services. As a Chief Emeritus and Life Member of Sandy Spring Volunteer Fire Department (SSVFD), his unmatched leadership, mentorship, and lifelong service have shaped the local fire and rescue community, leaving a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of Olney residents.
Join Us in Celebrating Our Award Winners!
The Olney Chamber of Commerce congratulates all of this year’s award recipients for their dedication to the community. Their hard work, leadership, and commitment make Olney a better place for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.
For more information about the Olney Chamber of Commerce, membership opportunities, or upcoming events, visit www.olneymd.org.
Stay connected! Follow us on social media for updates, networking events, and community initiatives. @olneychamber (Ig) or @olneychambermd (FB)
Media Inquiries: For interviews or additional details, please contact Terri Hogan, Executive Director, at Chamber@olneymd.org or call 301-774-7117.
