Nominations for the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce’s Business Awards closed last night at midnight, and Executive Director Heather Johnson is preparing for an evening of cheer, celebration and good food as next Wednesday’s award event night approaches.
The Business Awards are an annual event that the Chamber has stayed committed to for nearly three decades, with this year’s being the 29th anniversary. Nominations are accepted from patrons of organizations throughout the district, spanning from Atikokan west to the Manitoba border.
“We have 12 categories right now,” Johnson said. “We just want to recognize that we do have outstanding service and commitment to our town and to the growth and prosperity of the Rainy River District. It’s always a really nice night out, and we have little games, silent auctions and 50-50 draws.”
Last year, the Chamber added three new award categories to better highlight the individuals behind the scenes who don’t always necessarily get the focus when a business is nominated. These are the Tourism and Hospitality, the Business Owner/Manager of the Year and the Youth Entrepreneur Awards.
“Sometimes we recognize the business, but we don’t recognize the person behind it,” Johnson said. “It’s a way to recognize those people that go into a business and make it much better.”
Nominees do not need to be members of the Chamber of Commerce; any individual or business in the district can be nominated for applicable awards.
“It is strictly based on who you feel is doing a wonderful job in the Rainy River District; it’s completely open for everybody,” Johnson said.
The theme of this year’s award night is Northern Lights.
“Our theme is northern lights because we’re celebrating the people, businesses and organizations that make our district shine,” Johnson said. “It’s going to be fun. It’s going to be gorgeous, and hopefully, we’ll even get to see the northern lights this year once we leave.”
The awards night is being held at Lowey’s Greenhouse and Market Garden on Oct. 28, starting at 5 p.m., and is open to anyone who wishes to attend. Prices are $60 for Chamber members and $65 for non- members.
Purchasing a ticket also entitles attendees to a meal catered by Eat Best Charcuterie and dessert from Batter & Cream Baking Co.
The Chamber of Commerce is also accepting any additional volunteers who would like to assist in staffing the award night ceremony.
To buy a ticket or inquire about volunteering, contact the Chamber office by calling (807) 274-5773 or by emailing thefort@fortfranceschamber.com.
A full list of categories and details surrounding the awards can be viewed by following the “events” link on the Chamber’s website, www.fortfranceschamber.com.
