The Macleod Gazette received the Small Business Award. From left: Jo Lyke of award sponsor Crazy Stitch, Frank McTighe, Emily McTighe and Sharon Monical of The Macleod Gazette, and Mayor Brent Feyter.
Fort Macleod and District Chamber of Commerce staged its annual Business Awards Gala on Thursday at the community hall.
In addition to honouring Citizen of the Year David Hughes and Junior Citizen of the Year Cordelia Yip, the Chamber presented seven other awards to local businesses and individuals.
Jon’s Independent Grocer, Bernadette Mariano, Blackstone Coffee, The Macleod Gazette, Weston Manufacturing, My Oma always and Crocus Coulee Ranch received awards.
The Chamber also recognized the Town of Fort Macleod on its 150th anniversary, and the Fort Macleod Curling Club on its 125th year.
Community Enhancement
Jon’s Independent Grocer received the Community Enhancement Award for exemplary community spirit.
“This business is a beacon of generosity in our community, consistently contributing through donations and supporting various local events and organizations,” sid Mayor Brent Feyter, representing award sponsor Town of Fort Macleod.
“They stand as a positive force not only for their employees but also as a catalyst for positive change within the community.”
Fort Macleod Elks Club, Fort Macleod Lions Club, Grassroots Realty, Kids First Family Centre and the Vandervalk Family rounded out the list of Community Enhancement Award nominees.
Employee Service
Bernadette Mariano’s work at the front counter of the G.R. Davis Administration Building was recognized with the Employee Service Award.
The award recognizes outstanding and consistent demonstration of customer service.
“This outstanding employee embodies positivity and kindness, always ready to lend a helping hand,” said Brian Anderson of award sponsor Huckvale Law Office. “Their unwavering dedication to their work makes a significant impact to the workplace and overall morale of the team.”
Employee Service Award nominees included Cassie Ducharme, Mike Klaassen, Mark Meech, Robert Rippin and Lucinda Williamson.
New Business
Blackwood Coffee received the New Business Award.
“This business consistently goes the extra mile, exemplifying kindness, courtesy and exceptional service,” said Stephen Vandervalk of award sponsor Falcan Industries and Alberta Hardware and Firearms.
“Their willingness to assist and engage with customers creates an outstanding experience every time. In their commitment to service they prove a new business can quickly become a community staple.”
New Business Award nominees also included Country Creek Market, Fulcrum Outdoors, HR Advantage, and MA Catering Co.
“These businesses were nominated because they showed outstanding qualities. showcasing notable achievements within the past two years,” said John Guliker of the Chamber of Commerce.
“These businesses also showed resilience and made a positive impact on the community, standing apart as a noteworthy newcomer.”
Small Business
The Macleod Gazette received the Small Business Award.
“This business goes above and beyond, consistently radiating positivity and cheerfulness whenever they make an appearance,” said Jo Lyke of award sponsor Crazy Stitch.
“Their unwavering dedication to our community is evident in their hard work, and the team is truly the heart of it all. They not only celebrate the achievements of our town but also ensure that our youth are prominently featured and heard in the paper each week.”
Also nominated for the Small Business Award nominees were Buffalo Pawn, Edgewater Companion Animal Clinic, Fort Macleod Glass, Lloyd Dietrich Contracting Ltd., Little Leaders, and Little Red Quilt Shack.
“These businesses were nominated because of their exemplary demonstration of community spirit, unwavering support of local initiatives and stellar record of community service,” Guliker said the nominees.
Large Business
The fast-growing Weston Manufacturing was honoured with the Large Business Award.
“This business stands out as an exemplary employer, having doubled the staffing levels while steadfastly adhering to core values in all aspects of hiring and promotion,” said Brian Nelson of award sponsor Avail CPA.
“Even amidst impressive growth they are being true to their roots, consistently seeking the best talent and upholding a commitment to delivering exceptional work in the industry.”
Other Large Business Award nominees were Structural Truss, Delcan Building Materials, Scougall Motors and David Dodge.
“These businesses were nominated because they showcase exemplary community spirit, unwaving support for local causes and a commitment to exceptional customer service,” Guliker said.
Home-Based Business
My Oma Always received the Home-Based Business Award for the second year in a row.
“This quaint shop in town has earned its reputation as the best thanks to its cheery employees, and an owner who is consistently going above and beyond to keep the shop running smoothly,” Guliker said.
“Their product that they offer is truly a treat for the senses.”
Additional Home-Based Business Award nominees were Perfect Touch Massage, Stephanie Grisnich and Vintage Eclectic.
“These businesses were nominated based on their successful and sustained operation from residences, showcasing how their business has added something beneficial to the community,” Guliker added.
“They showed how they have a positive impact, innovation and contributions that set them apart as exceptional home-based businesses.”
Agricultural Business
The final award of the night for Agricultural Business went to Crocus Coulee Ranch.
“This business consistently gives back to our community, working diligently to deliver high-quality products,” said Guliker on behalf of award sponsor Fort Macleod Chamber of Commerce. “Their dedication is evident in their efforts to contribute to the betterment of our community, making them a valuable asset to the local area.”
Other Agricultural Business Award nominees were Fort Macleod Agricultural Society, Magnum Swine, Pure Pasture Hay, and Vandervalk Farms.
“These businesses were nominated based on their promotion of local and natural resources in a sustainable manner,” Guliker said. “They highlight how the business contribute to positive change in agricultural practices and expertise within the district, demonstrating a commitment of both environmental stewardship and community advancement.”
