By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
The Ponoka and District Chamber Commerce is holding its annual business awards presentation on Oct. 28 at the Kinsmen Community Centre and nominations from the community are welcome until Sept. 20.
Lana Johnson, executive manager at the chamber since November 2009, says the purpose is “to recognize businesses for what they do for the community and a motivation for businesses to grow and provide great customer service to the community.”
A committee of chamber members will decide the winners.
Nomination forms can be picked up at the chamber and online at www.ponokalive.com.
There are six categories this year:
Business of the year (three sub categories)
• Small Business (up to 4 employees)
• Medium Business (five to 10 employees)
• Large Business (more than 11 employees)
This category is for businesses that demonstrate excellence, growth and are a role model to other businesses.
The large business must also show active involvement in the community.
Industrial business of the year
For businesses in the manufacturing, oilfield and production service that demonstrate excellence, growth and are a role model to other businesses in the industry.
Businessperson of the year
For a businessperson who demonstrates vision and growth and is active in the community. Also helps develop Ponoka and district.
Agricultural business of the year
For agriculture related business that demonstrates excellence, growth and has an active role in the agricultural industry.
Customer serviceperson of the year (new category)
Voting is open to the public for this category. Employees of chamber members are eligible for nominations. This customer service representative consistently provides outstanding customer service, is professional and innovative and is skilled in conflict resolution.
Non-profit group of the year
Registered non-profit societies are eligible for this category and must demonstrate efforts to better Ponoka and district.