The Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce awards return Nov. 19, with executive director Bob Gaudette saying it will be a time to “recognize and celebrate the quiet contributions of those in our community.”
Gaudette added when meeting people on the street, or at the grocery store, they have their “strong Haliburtonian” exteriors on.
“Strong people with strong work ethics living together in an environment that reflects that toughness back to us.” He said people don’t often show the “recovery or struggle” and downplay their contributions.
That’s why the awards, in-person for the first time since the pandemic, are so important, he said.
“The last years have challenged us all and it’s more important to gather again to recognize the contributions and achievements of everyone. An exceptional time where exceptional people did what they could to make a difference. In celebration of us all, we hold the most exceptional up as examples.”
He said the awards are about honouring, “those who go above and beyond to make our community better.”
The event is being held at the Bonnie View Inn from 6-9 p.m. Find out more at haliburtonchamber.ca/gala
And the nominees are:
Highlander of the Year:
Andria Cowan Molyneaux, Robin Carmount, Rick Lowes, Lindsay Meller, Marina Thomazo, Shay Hutchings and David Zilstra.
New business:
Delancey Sports, Minden River Cone, Northern HVAC, OG Cucina, Poquito Loco, Spot97, Sweat Social, The Noble Barber.
Tourism and hospitality:
Abbey Gardens Community Trust, Lakeview Motel and Resort, McKeck’s Tap and Grill.
Young professional:
Alyssa Kinghorn (Hali Custom Co), Fred Mayo (Petrini Construction), Nick Folco (The Noble Barber), Mackenzie Vasey (LV Threads).
Innovation and creativity:
Haliburton Clothing Co., Haliburton Forest Biochar.
Not-for-profit:
Abbey Gardens, Youth Wellness Hub, Skyline Dance Studio, CKHA CanoeFM, Haliburton County Snowmobile Association, Haliburton County Development Corporation, Haliburton Highlands Arts Centre Foundation.
Customer service – business:
Haliburton Clothing Co., REFORM with Sarah, Lakeview Motel and Resort, Wind in the Willows Spa.
Customer service – employee:
Rebel Grooms (Timber Mart) and Rita McCarty (Tekrider).
Industry and trades:
Northern HVAC, Minden Auto Care and JR Masonry.
Business achievement:
Linda Baumgartner and AJW Services.
Entrepreneur:
Linda Baumgartner, Megan Cox (Just Movement Fitness), Amy Joanu (Beauty Basics).
