The success stories of five small businesses, three of them from Chester County, were celebrated during last week’s luncheon held by the Chester and Delaware County chapter of SCORE at the Concord Country Club, writes Brian McCullough for Daily Local News.

The founder of Gemelli Artisanal Gelato and Dessert Cafe, Vincenzo Tettamanti, received the award for successfully transforming a vacant building on Market Street in West Chester into a favorite spot for residents and visitors who enjoy a quality dessert.

Angela Colasanti was recognized for her Uwchlan based jewelry store Viela, founded on the idea of creating pieces that are in tune with nature.

Ann Hughes received the award for her Nottingham based Pro-Active Muscle Therapy LLC, massage therapy and physical therapy practice which helps clients maintain and improve body conditioning.

“To all of the winners, your stories are inspiring,” commented Theresa Stringer of Citadel, which sponsored the event.

Steve Records from the national SCORE, the organization which helps startups and young businesses by giving business advice, said the volunteers “epitomize what is best in America.” He added that close to 500 jobs were created by newly formed companies that were advised by the Chester and Delaware County chapter.

Read more about the winners at Daily Local News here, and check out previous VISTA Today coverage of SCORE here.