Nominated businesses and citizens filled the Village Inn Saturday as chamber president Joe Von Doellen announced the winners of the 2015 Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards. It was the first time in eight years the Vanderhoof Chamber of Commerce has done the awards.
“This event gives the community a chance to thank some of the people and businesses in Vanderhoof. It’s these people and businesses that make Vanderhoof a great place to live,” Von Doellen said at the event. “We had quality nominees all the way through and congratulations to all who were nominated and awarded.”
Junior citizen of the year had one nominee and went to Gordon Barefoot junior. It is presented to a student 21-and-under from Vanderhoof who has shown leadership in the community in academic, arts, sports, or civic activities.
Community booster of the year nominees were NeighbourLink and the Elks organization. This award is given to an individual or group that gives freely time and energy to enhance and support the area of Vanderhoof. NeighbourLink took home the win.
The Elks were the only ones nominated for Volunteer of the year and took home the award. This award goes to volunteers who have gone above and beyond to contribute to the development of the community of Vanderhoof by giving time to a number of organizations, groups or disciplines.
River Rock hair shop and Vanderhoof Registered Massage Therapy were nominated for Home Based Business of the year. Vanderhoof Registered Massage therapy took home the award, which is handed out to a well-run home based business that provides expertise in their field, is involved in the community and stands behind their product or service.
Citizen of the year had two nominees, Dan Carberry and Dave Funk, Mr. Funk took home the award. This award is given to an area resident who demonstrates excellence in community service and who has substantially enhanced the well-being of others.
New Business of the year nominees were Badgers Better Half and the Daily Perk Coffee House and Bistro. Linda Varley accepted the award on behalf of the Daily Perk. The criteria for this category was to be in business for one year.
Business of the year had four nominees. Badgers Movies and Games, CIBC, Fountain Tire and Northern Home Craft. The winners, Beau Jackson and Shay Bulmer accepted on behalf of Northern Home Craft. This award is handed to a well-run home based business that provides expertise in their field, is involved in the community and stands behind their product or service.