Published: November 05, 2009 10:44 pm      

Two non-profits, New Albany business honored by BBB

Torch Awards handed out to LifeSpring, Interfaith and Conner’s Jeweler’s School

In an era when shady business practices seem to take precedent over those who follow the rules and put customers first, Charles Conner said being honest and doing the right thing should always be the first rule of a successful business.

Conner knows what he is talking about. The owner of Conner Jeweler’s School at 129 E. Sprint St. in New Albany, was named a runner-up in the Very Small Business category for the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Awards Thursday.

“I heard we received more nominations than any place ever. This is quite an honor,” said Conner, who said his school has held an A-plus rating from the BBB for many years. “There was quite a bit of competition. It’s just terrific.”

The BBB, which serves Louisville, Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky, honors businesses and non-profits each year. The Torch Award program helps provide recognition for businesses and non-profits that maintain a solid commitment to conducting their business practices in an ethical fashion.

Two non-profits were also honored at Thursday’s luncheon. LifeSpring in Jeffersonville won the non-profit division with revenue more than $1 million while Interfaith Community Council in New Albany was second in the non-profit division under $1 million.

Terry L. Stawar, president and CEO at LifeSpring, said he was “delighted” with the award.

“Being able to demonstrate ethical business is especially important for organizations such as LifeSpring since we depend on contributions and public confidence is paramount,” Stawar said in an e-mail response.

Christine Harbeson, executive director of Interfaith, was also honored by the recognition. She said it’s important for non-profits to practice good business ethics, something she said Interfaith always strives to exceed.

“I didn’t realize we were up against that many non-profits. It’s awesome,” she said of the runner-up finish. “When you are sitting in a room with other businesses and non-profits who practice good ethics and strive to put customers first, it makes you feel good.”

Award winners received a glass statue with the names of the organizations or business engraved on the front. The luncheon Thursday was held at The Olmsted in Louisville.