Nominations are in for the 2016 Community and Business Awards.
The annual awards will be presented at a gala on Oct. 14 at the Innisfail Royal Canadian Legion, and will recognize local community groups, sports organizations, individuals and businesses who have contributed in a variety of ways to the local community.
The deadline for nominations was last Friday, Aug. 26.
Kane Williams, recreation program coordinator with the Town of Innisfail, said that submissions received this year were impressive.
“Every day it seems like we're having someone come in and submit something to make sure that somebody really deserving is being recognized,” said Williams. “There's been great write-ups for people, newspaper clippings submitted, and people nominated for multiple awards. They've put a lot of care and attention into each (application).”
The annual awards highlight the work and dedication of many local citizens noted Henry Wong, the town's director of community services.
“(The awards) recognize people who have made a difference in the community, for the community,” said Wong. “Whether it is in sports, arts and culture or from local businesses.”
The event is held every year to show appreciation to those community members, businesses, sports teams and local organizations that have contributed to the Innisfail community.
Wong said the Town of Innisfail and the Innisfail and District Chamber of Commerce partner to present the annual event, each coordinating corresponding community and business aspects of the event.
“If there's somebody within a non-profit organization, sports team or community group where somebody feels that an individual is worthy of recognition they can nominate them,” said Wong.
Nominations will be accepted past the Aug. 26 deadline, noted Kane, but it will be up to the planning committee to decide whether they will be considered or not.
Carla Gabert, manager of the chamber, said there are several businesses in town that residents could nominate for recognition and an award.
“Innisfail has many businesses, business owners and employees who endeavour to help our community and offer exceptional customer service,” said Gabert. “We look forward to receiving nominations for the community and business awards.”
This year there are 11 categories available for nomination, seven for the community and four for local businesses. Community award categories include leaders of tomorrow, community cultural, community builder, mayor's fitness award, coach recognition, sports team or male or female athlete, and Citizen of the Year. Business award categories include Customer Service of the Year, Business Contribution, Farm Family of the Year and Business of the Year.
For more information visit www.innisfaillive.ca or www.innisfail.ca/awards-nomination
Henry Wong, director of community services.
"(The awards) recognize people who have made a difference in the community, for the community."
