The Farmer’s Daughters provided directions with just the right amount of twang in their voices as they steered guests to the Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce’s ninth annual Awards of Excellence celebration banquet.
Visitors passed a lively group of square dancers on their way.
Some guests wore stylish evening wear, and others wore stylish theme clothing, with the theme being a salute to agriculture with Centre Wellington – Outstanding in Our Field. That meant straw hats, coveralls, and farm boots for many.
There were videos of the winners as they made their way to the stage for their awards.
John Wheatley was saluted at the Centre Wellington Citizen of the Year.
Amanda Shore was named the Youth Citizen of the Year.
The Elora Centre for the Arts won the Cultural Arts award of merit for promotion of the arts in the community.
Coneybeare Honey was named the Agricultural/Agri Business of the Year.
There were several businesses honoured for their longevity.
The 40 year old businesses that were presented awards included Gibson’s Welding, Lloyd Scott Enterprises, Shoppers Drug Mart, Fergus, Harrcroft Acres Ltd., Centre Wellington Welcome Wagon, and Zehr’s.
Those businesses presented with the 25 year award included Bert’s Service Centre, Gorge Karate Dojo, and Hilltop Variety.
The Wellington Advertiser won the Large Business of the Year for businesses with over 15 employees.
Frabert’s Fresh Food won for the Small Business of the Year.
Elora Racquets and Fitness won the Customer Service Excellence award, and owner Jake Doering had hardly returned from having his picture taken for that when he was called to accept the Corporate Citizen of the Year award.
Scotia Bank won the Community Award of Merit for all of its work on causes in the community.
The Elora Environment Centre received the Environmental Excellence award.
Wellington North Tire was named the recipient of the Business Beautification award.
Drew House and Roget Dufau won the Tourism Impact award.
Imke Hanscomb, who has been running her own design, fabrication and retail outlet for her fashions since she was 15, was named the Youth Entrepreneur of the Year.
The Fergus Curling Club is celebrating its 175th anniversary, and it received the Sports Achievement award.
Finally, Michael Weinstein presented the President’s award to figure skating coach Sue Hosking.
