The “Power of Yes” was the motto of the night at the Athabasca District Chamber of Commerce business awards gala Oct. 19.
About 250 citizens, business owners and dignitaries were at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex for the fifth annual dinner and awards night, which also included a corporate improv presentation from Graham Neil on the “Power of Yes.”
Chamber president Laurie Bonell said the night was beyond her expectations.
“The turnout was very good, the food was exceptional, and I was very, very happy with Graham Neil and Cory for the presentation that they gave,” she said. “The message that they were giving was very valuable. The power of yes, of no idea’s a bad idea. It’s awesome.”
She said the numbers were not quite as high as last year’s, but it was consistent with the previous galas.
Bonell said the theme of the night was Canada 150. Centrepieces at tables were jars with candles and maple leaves, which also decorated the stage.
“Actually, Jackie [Shank] and the decorating crew took care of all that,” she said.
She also said that as this was the fifth time the event had run, the organization was smooth.
“The organization has been building over time,” she said, adding that it was the work of other executive members that made it so easy. “The past experience is what really helps it. It makes the flow go.
Bonell pointed out that presentation of the night – the “Power of Yes” – did not bring forward a new idea. The idea is to switch the negative to the positive, she said.
“Take the word can’t out of everything, and find a way that we can make it work,” she said. “And keep working until you can come up with a solution to whatever problem there might be.”
As for the winners?
“All good choices,” Bonell said. “Everybody’s a winner. All nominees.”
Employer of Youth: Athabasca A&W
Business of the year: Penny’s Headquarters
New business of the Year: Hawkey Studios
Manager of the year: Darlene Reimer/Servus Credit Union
Award of Achievement: Van Hout Bakery
Community Spirit Award: Canadian Tire
Green Business Award: Lolly Pop Thrift Store
Marketer of the Year: Value Drug Mart
Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Michelle Bishop/Elle’s Closet Boutique and Beauty
Business Integrity Award: Michelle Bishop/Elle’s Closet Boutique and Beauty
