Staff
While the number of nominations are not as high as some past years, judging soon will begin to decide the winners at the 14th-annual Bell Business Awards coming up here on Saturday, Feb. 13.
Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce manager Anthony Mason said roughly 35 nominations came in by yesterday afternoon’s deadline yesterday afternoon.
And while he may accept some last-minute nominations if they are turned in as soon as possible, Mason admitted “it’s crunch time” and he has to focus on getting together a team of “secret judges” to review all the nominees.
“Thirteen days is gonna fly by,” he chuckled.
Mason said there are at least three nominees for each of the 11 award categories, which include:
•Business of the Year (1-15 employees);
•Business of the Year (16+ employees);
•Entrepreneur of the Year;
•Small Business Trainer of the Year;
•Business Woman of the Year;
•Customer Service (business);
•Customer Service (individual);
•Employee of the Year;
•Tony Beyak Memorial Volunteer of the Year;
•Safety Award (business/individual); and
•Accessibility Award.
A complete list of nominees will be advertised in the Times prior to the awards dinner.
Meanwhile, plans are well underway for the Feb. 13 gala, which this year will take place at the Adventure Inn.
Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce president Harold Wilson will emcee the evening, with Diane Maxey and the Fort Harmonies slated to entertain.
Mason said there also will be a silent auction featuring items donated by local businesses.
Anyone who has not donated an item, but wishes to do so, should give him a call at 274-5773.
Tickets for the gala, which cost $45 each, are on sale now at the Chamber office (474 Scott St.)
Parties can reserve tables of eight.
