Local business owner Laurie Olshefski was recently honored by the Florida Retail Federation as the 2011 Retailer of the Year for Leadership. Olshefski is the owner of Shimmering Seas Jewelry and Gifts and Jake at the Beach–Life Is Good Shoppe, in Pier Park; and The Fitness Fetish–Sport and Beach Shoppe and Shimmering Seas Jewelry and Gifts, in Seaside. Her outstanding achievements were acknowledged at several events held throughout the area, including a banquet at which she accepted a personalized award. “Laurie exemplifies true leadership, not only in the community, but in her profession, her church and her family,” says Beth Oltman, president and CEO of the Panama City Beach Chamber, who encouraged Olshefski to enter the competition. Oltman describes Olshefski as a positive force with a positive attitude.

 

In addition to her four retail businesses, Olshefski serves the health and wellness needs of her community. She has been a fitness instructor for more than 15 years and currently teaches yoga classes at a gym and her church. “Yoga promotes kindness and makes you want to be a better person,” she says. “I try to run my businesses that way, too.”

 

For more information, visit FRF.org. To view a video of Olshefski receiving her award, visit tinyurl.com/4y9mqbk. See ad on page XX.