WESTLOCK – The community’s best was celebrated at the inaugural Westlock and District Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Gala at the Westlock and District Community Hall April 23.
The sold-out event welcomed 400 people for an evening that honoured both individual and business contributions to the community — about 150 nominations were received for the 11 awards that were presented.
“Sometimes we all have an interesting story — whether you’re here as a business owner, employee, family member or invited guest, you play an integral part somewhere in that story,” said Westlock and District Chamber of Commerce vice-president Paul Olsen, whose business Westlock Ford claimed the 11-29 employee business of the year award.
Chamber president Graeme Harrington said they were thrilled to see so many out to show their support and appreciation for the business community and thank them for their contributions, many of which are done behind the scenes, during long hours.
“It’s so great to recognize them and celebrate everyone,” said Harrington.
Westlock mayor Ralph Leriger presented the first two awards; the community ambassador award and the pioneer award. The latter was presented to an individual or a business whose contributions have had a substantial, positive impact on the community for over 20 years, while the Pioneer Award was given to Albert Miller, who passed away in March 2020.
“Albert and Florence left our community an incredible gift with which we have formed the Westlock Community Foundation,” said Leriger. “We’re doing our best to ensure it becomes a lasting legacy. It’s a gift that’s a game changer for our community.”
Miller’s sister-in-law Gale was pleased to accept the award on behalf of Albert and the family.
“He believed in supporting the community and always wanted us to buy local,” said Miller. “He just loved all the people that were here and wanted to do what he could to help the community. He’d be so honoured and thankful.”
The new business award was presented to Kerri’s Café and Bakery. Manager Myrna Van de Ligt said the business, now open for about two-and-a-half years, was honoured and thanked the community for their continued support.
“It’s exciting … the people have been really good through the pandemic,” said Van de Ligt. “We’ve been open the whole time and people have supported Kerri’s. It’s nice to see in a small town.”
Also included in the evening was a catered dinner followed by a dance. The chamber also unveiled a new website, www.westlockchamber.com which features upcoming events and a local business directory.
Awards Winners
Community Ambassador: Brandi Wolff – Royal LePage
Pioneer Award: Albert Miller
Exceptional Customer Service (Individual Category): Russell Stephens – Bumper to Bumper
Exceptional Customer Service (Business Category): Westlock Veterinary Centre
Renovation/Restoration: Westlock Terminals
Innovation: Tawatinaw Valley Ski Club
Digital Marketing: Soul Sisters Memorial Foundation
New Business: Kerri’s Café and Bakery
Business of the Year (30+ employees): Sobeys Westlock
Business of the Year (11-29 employees): Westlock Ford
Business of the Year (1-10 employees): Windsor Plywood
