Gord Armstrong named volunteer of the year

By Heather Latter Staff writer Several district businesses and individuals were recognized for their outstanding business achievement on Saturday night at La Place Rendez-Vous during the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce’s 12th-annual business awards. Canada Safeway won the Business of the Year Award (16+ employees), while Domino’s Pizza was honoured as Business of the Year (1-15 employees). Kevin Nielson, owner of Shopper’s Drug Mart, was named Entrepreneur of the Year, with Sherry Kaun of Share Bears Place winning Business Woman of the Year. Gordon Armstrong captured the Tony Beyak Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award, while Joe Hendrikx of Northland Basics was named Employee of the Year. The Accessibility Award was given to Kevin Busch of the Fort Frances Curling Club, while the Safety Award (business or individual) was presented to Kayne Shaw of Daryl’s Custom Landscapes. Super 8 Motel was honoured with the Customer Service Award (business), with Lori Pochailo of Howarth’s Home Centre winning the Customer Service Award (individual). A brand new award was added to the mix this year with Revco Carpet Centre Ltd. earning the title of Small Business Trainer of the Year. Nominations for the awards were sought in September and October, and any business in Rainy River District was eligible to be nominated. A total of 93 nominations, listing 84 different nominees, were received for this year’s business awards—a 12 percent increase from last year. The awards were presented by representatives from the respective award sponsors. The ceremony was emceed by Chamber president Christine Denby and second vice president Nancy Daley. The Borderland Orchestra Ensemble provided music for the event and there was a silent auction with many great prizes up for grabs.