It was a night to celebrate local businesses for all that they do in the community.
From small to large, not for profit to community involvement, local business owners and staff members were recognized for their contribution to Cold Lake and beyond during the fourth annual Business of the Year Awards.
On Friday, Oct. 13, businesses such as RBC Royal Bank in Cold Lake, the Lakeland Humane Society, Muse Inspired, and more, walked across the stage to accept their awards in their categories.
“It was absolutely fabulous. We felt very honoured. The power of community is very important to all of us at RBC. To be able to contribute, and be recognized for that, we really do feel grateful and proud to be a part of this community,” said Wendy Coats, branch manager at RBC in Cold Lake about receiving the Community Involvement Award.
The event is hosted by the Cold Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce, and celebrates small and large businesses across the Lakeland.
Accepting the hardware for the Outstanding Not for Profit Award in Cold Lake was the Lakeland Humane Society (LHS).
“We are just completely humbled by the honour. Everything that we achieve at the LHS is only achievable because of the strong support that we get through the community,” said Kyla Hunter, shelter manager for LHS. “I think it shows that we are supported in our community and people appreciate the essential service that's provided here,”
Jacknife Oilfield Services also crossed the stage to accept their award for Cold Lake's Outstanding Large Business.
Co-owner Tracy Jacknife said the over 20-year business was excited to be this year's recipients.
“I think it's great to know that you're appreciated, and noticed. We can support each other to help be successful, and the more business we can generate in our area and support our local families, the better.”
Jacknife believes it was their commitment to the community that truly made them stand out as a business.
“I think we do really strive for customer satisfaction. We really believe in giving back to the community. We like supporting local fundraisers and we help donate to various causes,” she said. “We try to be involved in the community because we live here and work here, and we want to support our local community.”
It was Nourish the Soul Wellness Centre who won this year's Most Promising New Business in Cold Lake.
Michele Huszar said it just confirmed that the small business is on the right track.
“Being a new business, you always wonder if you are meeting your clients needs, are you there for your customers, are you doing the right thing in the right market, and are you providing a service that they are looking for. This is a great way… to see that we are meeting our customers needs as being part of this nomination and being an award recipient,” she expressed.
By treating all of their clients like family, Huszar feels she has created a business that stands out and helps clients on their journey to a healthier lifestyle.
“When everybody walks through our doors, everybody has a story and we are willing to help listen to that story and make you feel like a part of our family. We are here to help you on your health and wellness path and to be a part of that process,” noted Huszar. “We really like to get to know our customers and clients beyond just selling them something.”
The Cold Lake chamber was pleased with the turnout, with businesses from both communities coming out to network and celebrate.
“It was great. We love seeing that many people come out. This was our fourth annual and we really have got it together now,” emphasized Cold Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce president Ben Fadeyiw.
He noted the event not only celebrates the businesses, but also how they have persevered through tough economic times.
“Small businesses bust their butt every day, especially with the times that we have had over the last few years,” he said. “To see these businesses come out with new ideas and to flourish, it's amazing. It's something that we should celebrate, and something that we want to keep in town.
If we don't keep them here, we're going to lose them, and a few years down the road we are going to be asking ‘what happened to that little shop that was around the corner.' That's the importance, is these people have to be at the forefront and we have to celebrate as a community with them.”
