A crowd of approximately 120 people packed the banquet hall at the Pomeroy Inn Hotel in Vermilion to capacity at this year’s Small Business Awards Gala on October 19.
“Tonight demonstrates that great things can happen in small towns,” said Chamber President Robert Ernst, as he welcomed everyone.
The 2016 Small Business Award Winners
(From left) Tim Horton’s employee David Rein, Christina’s Home Furnishings owner Kirby Whitlock, Shelly’s Window Coverings owner Shelly Corbiere, Lakeland Funeral Home employer Candice Anderson, Icycle Bicycle Junior Entrepreneurs Nathan and Laura James, Crave Sandwich Shoppe owner Toni Teasdale, Vermilion Chrysler General Sales Manager Mike Matthews and Vermilion Chrysler Owner Wes Campbell.
Grace was said by Jim Storch before everyone enjoyed the roast beef dinner served by Red Feather Ridge. NewCap Radio DJs entertained as MCs for the evening.
Dignitaries in attendance included County of Vermilion River Reeve Daryl Watt, RCMP representative Corey Buckingham, Mayor Bruce MacDuff and Mike Christie from Lakeland College.
Mayor Bruce MacDuff congratulated all the winners and presented trophies to the chosen individuals from the 39 nominees.
Vermilion Chrysler took home the Business of the Year award.
“I would think to thank our team who has done a great job. You couldn’t ask for better people,” said Vermilion Chrysler Owner Wes Campbell, as he collected the award.
The Rookie Business of the Year award went to Crave Sandwich Shoppe.
Employee of the Year was awarded to Tim Horton’s employee David Rein, who was recognized for 'always having a friendly face and being positive to every customer.'
Employer of the Year was awarded to Candice Anderson from Lakeland Funeral Home.
Anderson, who was the organizer of the Chamber awards event, said she was very tired in the lead up to the night.
“We have a great time together at Lakeland Funeral Home, we are like a family and to be nominated and win is to be like your mom,” said Anderson upon collecting her award.
The Spirit of Vermilion award went to Christina’s Home Furnishings; it was said Kirby Whitlock has 'a lot of personality, generosity and is always serving the community with a smile on his face.'
The Junior Entrepreneur award went to Icycle Bicycle. Icycle Bicycle is a new business which sells frozen treats. Eleven-year-old Nathan and 8-year-old Laura James said they were both grateful for all the support and that they look forward to starting the business up again next year.
The President’s Choice Award winner was Shelly Corbiere.
“I am honoured with this award. I love my job and love being a mom. I also love being a part of Vermilion that encourages small businesses to help each other out,” said Corbiere, as she accepted her award.