John Ward, owner of Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric ( www.applewoodfixit.com), claimed the title of "Businessperson of the Year" on Thursday night, September 18, 2008 at the Belmar Center in Lakewood, Colo.

The Businessperson of the Year Award, presented by the Colorado Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). "We annually recognize an outstanding businessperson who has energy and dedication within the field of public relations," Amy Johnson, PRSA Colorado Chapter president. "These award winners realize the importance of public relations programs and components and incorporate the practices within their business."

In accepting his honor, Ward said, "We must always demonstrate to the community that we can meet our customer's needs, that we strive to provide the best service and that we are an ethical business that operates with honesty and integrity."

For nearly 35 years, Applewood Plumbing, Heating & Electric has been one of Denver's esteemed businesses. It is the largest family-owned plumbing, heating and electrical service company in the metro area and state of Colorado. The success of the business can be easily traced to its owner and their business philosophy: Better. Cleaner. Faster.

These basic business principles and philosophies are modeled from the top leadership in every way. Ward's interactions with employees, fellow peers, customers, vendors and the general community exemplify the genuine sense of commitment he brings to all endeavors. Ward sets a high standard of ethical practice in his business and requires his employees to do the same. Applewood was named the 2007 Golden Rotary's "Ethics in Business Award winner".

Ward's business approach is fulfilled daily in a number of ways, but the company's "Caring Community 12 in 12 Giveaway" program exemplifies their giving community spirit. "We give away $1,000 to a small, local nonprofit monthly," he said. "No strings attached and everyone has the same chance of winning." Ward is also a long-time supporter of the Wheat Ridge Farmer 5000 and Belmar Elementary's Science Fair; and this year support of the Northwest Denver Old Home Fair.

"I know there are a lot of great organizations in our community that need help and I strongly believe that my success means nothing if I don't use it to help others," said Ward.

Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric has served the Denver/Boulder Metro area for more than 35 years. The company has consistently been rated one of the nation's top 10 service companies by their customers and has achieved the Nexstar Network Select Service designation and the 2007 City of Golden Rotary Club's Ethics in Business Award.

For more information or to nominate a local nonprofit for the "Caring Community 12 in 12 Giveaway," call 720-249-5145 or go to www.applewoodfixit.com.