DIDSBURY - The Didsbury and District Chamber of Commerce held its annual business awards on Oct. 20 at the Didsbury Elks Hall. Just over 60 people came out to the event, which featured live music from Walkin' on Sunshine, featured speaker Franki Kelly, a catered meal, and, of course, the presentation of awards.
Kelly, the past-president of the Didsbury Museum, gave a touching presentation on her story of how she and her husband came to Didsbury and got involved with the museum. She also spoke about the history book the museum is now working on during their 40th anniversary and how they are looking for local stories for the book.
Chamber president Brian Chita said the evening went very well and it was a great opportunity to honour the many wonderful businesses in town.
"Overall the evening was a success with about 60 in attendance," said Chita. "It is always a great thing to take time to honour our businesses and employees that make Didsbury 'the place to grow.' More than anything, it is my view that people make the town. People, like all our business award winners and nominees, who care and honour their customers, and have an insatiable appetite for success."
In all, there were eight categories ranging from business ethics to business of the year (11 and more employees). Chita said the winning businesses and runners-up were all great assets to the town.
"They're filled with people with the courage, drive and ambition to solve real business problems and serve," he said. "People who are putting Didsbury on the map as a place where community and creativity come together to stand out from the crowd."
Chita said that employment is at the heart of any town's economic, social and community well-being.
"In the competitive world we live in we must focus on economic growth, and continue to support our businesses, creating opportunities for employment, and financial growth in all sectors," he said. "As with all businesses in Didsbury, regardless of size, you are making a difference."
