2019 Chamber Awards

2019 22nd Annual

Business
& Community
Excellence Awards

November 7th, 2019

The CBD Club

6pm – 10pm

Message from Our Chair

Karen Debergh

It is with great pleasure that
on behalf of the 2018/2019 Board of
Directors and the Business Excellence
Committee, that we welcome everyone to the
22nd Annual Business and Community

Excellence Awards.

Tonight, is not only about the award recipients and nominees, but also about
the quality and commitment of business and volunteerism that exists within
our wonderful community. We have a strong history of coming together to
assist each other through good and bad times and it is only fitting that we

take the opportunity annually to recognize those outstanding members.

Preparing for this year’s event has been an exciting endeavour! Each year this
event grows, we see more exceptional qualities and nominees that are very
deserving of recognition. I am positive that it was not an easy job making a

selection.

The nomination committee spends hours discussing potential candidates
deserving of these awards and it is not an easy task.

As you watch this evening’s event unfold, I am sure that you will also see the
fine qualities of the nominees. Please take the time to congratulate each of
them.

On behalf of the Wallaceburg & District Chamber of Commerce,
congratulations to each of our nominees and recipients of the 22nd Annual
Business and Community Excellence Awards. Have an enjoyable evening!

Message from Councillor

Carmen McGregor

It is with honour and pride that I
congratulate all the nominees this evening.

It is this annual gala event under the
leadership of the Wallaceburg & District
Chamber of Commerce that allows each of us
the opportunity to recognise the hard work of our
businesses, community members and volunteers.

All nominees demonstrate leadership in our community and play a major part
in what makes this a wonderful place to live, work and raise our families.
This evening marks the 22nd Annual Business and Community Excellence
Awards. Over the past years, we have had the opportunity to see many of

our friends and neighbours recognised. Some of the nominees that are being
honoured tonight have received the same recognition in the past, this is due
to all of their long-term commitments in Wallaceburg and the surrounding

area.

Excellence in Business and Community means something different to each of
us. It is a challenging job for the judges to determine the award recipients
based on a brief biography. There are no winners or losers, only committed

community members. The fact that someone in the community has taken the
time to nominate speaks louder of the quality of the community more than

the individual award.

I would also like to congratulate the Chamber’s Business Excellence
Committee for their hard work in keeping this an annual night of
recognition as a focal point of the high quality that exists in Wallaceburg and
area and a special thanks to the sponsors that have made it all possible!

Message from Councillor

Aaron Hall

Greetings from Aaron Hall, Chatham-Kent Councillor
representing Ward 5 – Wallaceburg

Often times in the spirit of competition, there are winners
and there are losers.

Only one sports team lifts the championship trophy at the end of the season, only one
academic score’s the top grade in their graduating class or only a single individual can
walk away with a first-place ribbon or gold medal. However, tonight this is not the

case. Tonight, there are only winners.
Congratulations to each and every nominee for the Wallaceburg and District Chamber

for Commerce Business and Community Excellence Awards.
Every single person listed in the program and mentioned this evening have been
selected and chosen for a reason. You are business leaders, entrepreneurs, employers,
volunteers, mentors and event organizers. You dedicate countless hours to your craft or
your passion for the community and tonight is an opportunity for the spotlight to be

shone on all of you.
Your service to the community of Wallaceburg and area is appreciated and this

recognition for all of you is deserving.
Wallaceburg is truly an amazing community and it takes the dedication, sacrifice and

commitment from everyone in this room to keep that spirit alive.
Let's stick together, support each other, remain positive advocates for our great
community and keep striving, whether through business or volunteering, to make our

community an even better place to live, work and play.

Enjoy the evening and cheers to everyone.

With Thanks…

Special Thanks to the Judges &
Nominee Committee Members

Judges are asked to provide objective decisions based
upon the criteria and the information provided. Each

submission is assessed independently, and a score is
determined.

The work of the judges is not easy and it is with
appreciation that we thank this year’s panel!

The Business and Community Excellence Awards
Committee is the be congratulated for their dedication
and collective expertise in the preparation for this special

evening.

Evening

Program Schedule

Emcee: Jay Smith

Greetings from Dignitaries

• Agricultural Achievement Award
• Environmental Award

• Business of the Year Award
• Entrepreneur of the Year Award

• Young Professional Award
• Technology Award

• Chip Gordon Community Builder Award
• Volunteer of the Year Award
• Community Inclusion Award
Silent Auction will close

• Citizen of the Year Award
• Wallaceburg BIA Award
• Chamber Choice Award
Jill Misselbrook -Thank you
Mayor Darren Canniff- Closing Remarks

Program Sponsors

Aarkel Tool & Die
Subway

pASHion Salon and Spa
Wallaceburg Retirement Residence

Oaks Retirement Village
Canadian Tire

Russolo Therapy Centre
St. Clair College Employment Centre

Far End Travel
Cascade Casino Chatham

Award Sponsors

Mares Insurance
CKSY

Community Living Wallaceburg
Cascade Casino Chatham

Community Futures of Development Corporation of Chatham Kent
North Kent Mutual Insurance
Rotary Club of Wallaceburg
United Way
UCB Canada
CKXS 99.1FM
Wallaceburg BIA
Rulmeca Canada

pAashions Salon & Spa Silent Auction
Wallaceburg Retirement Sponsors

Residence The Clubhouse at Baldoon
UCB Canada The Stubby Goat
Ds Walker Jewelers Glasses & Grapes
Dresden BIA Tom & AL’s
Mark & Sarah’s No Frill Duchene Paints
Westbrooks Sensations
Progressive Ford
Goldcoast Fashions Riverview Automobile
Karyon Travel Wallaceburg wellness centre
McDonalds
Dover Duds Little Caesars
Dresden Meat Packers The Black Goose
Tim Hortons Southwest Credit Union
New Vision
Rexall
Pita Pit DPM Insurance Group
Patterson Motors
Tropical Tanning Whytes Foods Inc
Shoppers Drug Mart Screen Art
Southside Fitness
Riversite Realty Sydenham Curling Club
Hidden Hills Golf Club
( COUNTRY VIEW)
Nature's Health Shop
Enbridge Inc ( Dresden)

Links of Kent

Agricultural

Sponsored by Award

CRITERIA

❖ Business achievements demonstrate a relationship of cooperation and dependability
❖ Promotes business and service excellence

❖ Contributes to the development of new markets
❖ Environmentally responsible while enhancing community commitment with business growth

❖ Innovative and redefines the industry

AWARD NOMINEES

Jacks Tire Craft Wallaceburg

Jack’s Tirecraft is a relatively new store in the Tirecraft world. It was officially opened at it’s
current location 2 years ago. We specialize in all sizes of tires from wheel barrows all the way up to
earthmover and everything in between. We currently employ 5 local staff members at this location
with lots of room to grow.

We are open to serve our clients from 8am to 5pm through the week and also 8am to noon on
Saturdays. We also offer after hours emergency road service for our clients who are always on the
go.

Automotive repair is not currently offered at Jack’s but it is something we are hoping to move into
in the future.

Feel free to drop by our store for a no charge estimate for replacement tires or to schedule some on
farm service work. We are ready to go anytime with our 2 fully outfitted service trucks and our
knowledgeable staff.

Rulmeca Canada

Rulmeca Canada Limited is a world class OEM whose locally produced products are shipped to
markets around the world.

Since relocating our Canadian head office and manufacturing operations to Wallaceburg in
2010 we have worked hard to establish our community roots. Our mandate is to hire and
source locally where possible. Supporting organizations like the CCE, Community Living, local
trades and businesses have helped to secure our place in the community.

Outside of our work initiatives Rulmeca has actively supported WAMBO, Santa Claus Parade,
W.D.S.S and Chatham Kent sports teams through donations, partnerships and coop
opportunities.

It is an honor to be recognized for our efforts in the community and be considered for the
“Agricultural/Industrial“ Chamber award.

Thank you,

Mark Long

President and CEO

Rulmeca Canada Limited

Whyte’s Foods Inc.

It began simply in 1892, with a small family business and a goal to import authentic fine foods
to serve the community of Montreal. More than a century later, we’re proud to say we’re still
a family-owned, Canadian business passionate about bringing our customers authentic, fresh
flavours that reflect our rich history. As a leading Canadian-owned prepared food manufacturer
and importer, we offer a diverse food portfolio unmatched in our industry. From pickles and
olives, to sauces, salad dressings and more, we’re proud to be the partner of choice for your
favorite restaurants, fine foods suppliers and neighborhood supermarkets.

Canada’s largest producer of pickles, relish and maraschino cherries.

450,000 sq. ft. of processing, packaging, warehousing and distribution space in 3 provinces.

Inventors of the green Envira Care™ pouch, a food service standard.

Now proud to be part of the Wallaceburg and area community.

Environmental

Sponsored by Award

CRITERIA

❖ Enhances or protects the environment while meeting commercial standards
❖ Better use of energy, water, minimizes waste through reduction and recycling

❖ Outcomes can include cost savings and increased operational efficiency
❖ Commitment by staff, innovation, evidence of benefits on environment and ability for future

development

AWARD NOMINEES

CK Tree Care

CK Tree Care is proud to be an industry leader in the arboriculture trade. Greg Pilecki owner of
CK Tree Care has built and nurtured this professional business over the past 12 years. CK Tree
Care provides full tree care services in Chatham-Kent and South Lambton areas. They have built a
positive reputation in our local communities with their great customer service, excellent business
ethics and strong integrity.

CK Tree Care is continuously focused on keeping up to date with the Ontario Health and Safety
Act, the Arborist Safe Work Practises and other industry standards. Ck Tree Care is dedicated to
providing formal training through government programs, apprenticeships and other arboriculture
courses for CK Tree Care employees.

It is the goal is our goal at CK Tree Care to continue to improve our business and community
through learning, leadership and giving. CK Tree Care is committed to reducing our carbon
footprint, educating those around us in our work practices and being good stewards of our
community.

Dresden Horticultural Society

The goals of the Dresden Horticultural Society are to beautify and promote pride in our community,
while encouraging better horticultural practices thru workshops and seminars.

Caring for the environment is practiced with our involvement in several initiatives.

Earth Week is coordinated by our volunteers. The yellow pitch in bags are distributed to the local
schools, groups and individuals. Horticulture members also take an active role in picking up garbage
in assigned areas.

Memorial tree planting is an annual event which sees new trees planted. Families are invited to have
the Horticultural Society purchase, dig the hole, help plant, water and take care of the planted trees.
On average about 10-15 new trees are planted in our arboretum and other garden areas each year.

In the spring we have a free plant exchange. We welcome new gardeners as well as experienced
gardeners to bring some plants and take some plants to start a new garden or embellish an existing
garden.

We sponsor a flower show for the grade one and two children at the Dresden Area Public School.
We encourage the students to identify the flowers that they bring to the show and they receive plant
prizes and all children leave with flowers to take home to plant in their own gardens.

The horticultural society volunteers also are very active in maintaining gardens and planters
throughout town, including a very interesting Medieval Garden.

We have also had workshops with the children at the library to make fairy gardens, , flower design
seminar with seniors and planted flowers at the retirement homes with the residents and garden
tours.

Sydenham Field Naturalists

We are a registered, non-profit organization whose members aim to enjoy, as well as preserve
wildlife and natural history, primarily in the Chatham-Kent area. We are the nature group for all of
Chatham-Kent and we provide the opportunity for nature interested people to gather and share
experiences together. Our club provides financial support to partner groups and our own club
projects. We offer a winning package - education, physical activity, habitat preservation and
restoration while having fun all at the same time.

Sydenham Field Naturalists has a record of ecological protection going back its entire thirty-four
years, conserving significant natural areas in the region. We are stewards of three local nature
properties for all to enjoy. These properties are areas we continue to improve with tree planting,
creating pollinator habitat, invasive species removal and trail work to improve public accessibility to
these diverse properties.

The Crappie Store

In August 31, 2016 we incorporated our company and purchased the historical commercial property
in Dresden formerly known for the last 100 years as "Clark's Hardware". We purchased the property
from the third-generation owner Bill Clark who remembers when his grandfather was dealing coal
and building supplies when a railroad used to run directly in front of the store.

Before becoming entrepreneurs, we both worked in other professions, Tyler as a Journeyman
Ironworker, and Bria as a Program Manager at the VON and an occasional teacher for the LKDSB.
The work/life balance was a struggle and the driving force behind taking this step was to keep our
family closer together and to teach our children skills that will help them succeed in their own future
endeavors.

We purchased with the intention to create "The Crappie Store - Hunting & Fishing Outfitters", and
luckily for us due to the large size of the property we were able to also expand our hobby
beekeeping business as well. The Crappie Store is ideally located on Highway 21 along the
Sydenham River directly adjacent to the public boat launch in the heart of Dresden, Ontario.

We have live bait, tackle, guns & ammunition, and hunting supplies.

BLB Honey & Beekeeping Supplies is our sister store providing all things beekeeping from live bees
to equipment, to education and more! We are proud to offer the purest local honey and beeswax
products in Chatham-Kent.

Along with introducing the new businesses and offering these new products and services to our
community of Chatham-Kent, we are also working very hard to transform the property into a
tourist destination and hub of Dresden, hopefully attracting new people and business to all of our
fellow business owners in town. We have had an extremely busy summer down on the Sydenham
River with our Canoe/Kayak/SUP Board Rentals, and we were excited to introduce Sydenham
Fishing Charters/Nature Tours in the summer of 2019.

We have just completed our 3rd year and are in the very beginning of year 4. We are so proud to
be constantly striving to improve our business and serve our customers for many, many years to
come!

Business of the
Year Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ Honours small and large businesses
❖ Demonstrates innovation and unique concepts in product marketing
❖ Directly involved in the stability and improvement of the community
❖ Contributes to a community destination point for value, service and hospitality

AWARD NOMINEES

Anderson Law Group

Anderson Law Group was formed on Jan 1, 2019 from the predecessor law firm Carscallen Reinhart
Mathany Maslak Anderson. Founded by former partner, Lindsey Anderson, the firm employs two
lawyers, being Lindsey and her father Jeff Wesley, and eight full-time staff in Wallaceburg and
Chatham. With extensive renovations to the Wallaceburg office and a new office in Chatham in
2019, Anderson Law Group is looking forward to serving Wallaceburg and the surrounding
communities for many years to come.

Days Inn Wallaceburg

Mann Patel moved to Toronto in 2000 where he worked for a plastic company as a laborer. Mann
first dipped his toe in the hotel business when he purchased his first small hotel in Sudbury, Ontario
called Alta Vista from 2012 -2016 he sold it to a friend. Man purchased DAYS INN,
WALLACEBURG August 2016, he moved his wife and 3 children plus parents to Wallaceburg,
Family members help run the business. Days Inn employs 3-4 employees depending on the season of
their business.

During the last 4 years there have been a lot of money put into renovations starting with the roof
and canopy on both front and back, a place for customers to relax. Everything from top to bottom a-
z new flooring, furniture, televisions, beds, mattresses, bathroom vanity, microwave, you name it
everything but the walls. There are 47 rooms including 6 king, 1 single queen, double queen rooms.
Days Inn is the only hotel in town Mann and his family try to give everyone the best experience, so
that they want to come back. Always thinking about the customer and is always asking themselves
“What do customers want”?

Days Inn have hosted sports team’s hockey, Soccer and Lacrosse during tournaments. Other
customers are hunters in Michigan, Ohio and Kentucky.

Mann and his family are very proud to be part of the Wallaceburg Community and thank full for
their success for their business in Wallaceburg.

DPM Insurance

The DPM Insurance Group became a formal entity in 1990 when Dillon Insurance from Tilbury,
Pudwell Insurance from Chatham and Pegg-McNeill Insurance from Blenheim formed a partnership
known as Dillon Pudwell McNeill. Prior to this, each office had insurance ties to their respective
communities dating back to the 1940s. Together, our offices have been able to offer enhanced
choices to our clients when it comes to the variety of insurance products available.

Four years later, Pollard Insurance in Harrow joined the group and was followed by Brown &
Barnett Insurance from Essex in 2005. With the addition of these offices the Dillon Pudwell McNeill
name was changed to DPM Insurance Group.

DPM Insurance Group is dedicated to providing insurance products that deliver quality protection
and financial security from our team of trusted insurance advisors. Together, we are committed to
establishing a successful partnership between our clients, staff members and our insurance companies
that respect the interests and goals of each party. "Your Security is Our Responsibility".

In 2018 our sixth location was opened in the community of Wallaceburg. As a brokerage we have
been fortunate to bring two individuals with extensive experience in the insurance industry and ties
to the community to the DPM team.

Marielaine Douglas and Carrie Rose were both born and raised in Wallaceburg and have a passion to
assist clients with their insurance needs. DPM Insurance Group is confident we will be an engaged
and responsive member of the Wallaceburg business community for many years to come.

Entrepreneur of
the Year Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ Honours an individual who is self-employed or employed by a firm
❖ Demonstrates excellence in their field of expertise

❖ Makes a positive contribution to their profession and community

AWARD NOMINEES

Ballistic Fitness

My name is Rodney Langstaff and together with my wife Joanna we own and operate Ballistic
Fitness in Wallaceburg. We have been in business since 2010.
We work with children, teens and adults. Some different programs we focus on are elementary and
high school gym classes, team training, hockey camps, strength & conditioning classes, and one on
one training. We have had the pleasure of working with professional athletes, collegiate athletes and
hometown athletes.
Our focus is to always see our members reach their fitness and wellness goals.
We train our every day people such as mom’s, dad‘s, grandmas and grandpas to feel better inside and
outside the gym. We train them to be best prepared for functional movements that they use in
everyday life.
Our main goal has always been to make an impact on our community both physically and mentally
and we look forward to many more years of impacting our community.

J&E Meats – Josh & Emma Butler

We are a husband and wife duo based in Chatham-Kent, Ontario. We offer ethically raised,
antibiotic & hormone free, farm fresh, Ontario grown beef & lamb meat for sale in our on-farm
store in Croton. We know you'll taste the difference of knowing where your food comes from.

Union Block Bakery

Union Block Bakery, established in November 2018 in the heart of downtown Dresden, has quickly
become a destination for visitors from throughout Chatham-Kent and Lambton Counties. Rooted in
the core of Dresden, Union Block Bakery is a full-service bakery, offering sweet and savory items,
with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Baked Goods are produced in small batches using
quality ingredients. Lunch, catering and on-site special events are available. Owner Katherine Kiar is
following in the footsteps of her entrepreneurial grandmother, who established a Scottish Bakery in
Windsor, Ontario in the 1920s following immigrating to Canada from Scotland.

Young
Professional Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ 35 years of age or younger
❖ Is from, or resides in Wallaceburg
❖ Is well respected or has achieved something of note in their chosen field
❖ Is actively involved in promoting youth retention/young professional growth in the

community
❖ Engages in volunteer or community activities outside of the professional role

❖ Serves as a role model for other young professionals

AWARD NOMINEES

Chris & Kyle Wesley

Back in 2012 Legacy Composites began as a hobby that was born from a passion for working with
carbon fiber and experimenting with new manufacturing processes. Fast forward to 2019, we now
manufacture and sell a wide variety of products including the Worlds First & Only CSA compliant
hard hat manufactured from carbon fiber, welding helmets, motorcycle components and a line of
carbon fiber guitars and ukuleles. Our products are sold Worldwide and proudly made here in our
facility in Wallaceburg!

Legacy Guitars began with two brothers who had a passion for designing and building unique
instruments.

Back in 2018 Kyle and Chris decided to join forces by combining Kyle's expertise in crafting one of
kind guitars with Chris' skill with manufacturing items from carbon fiber. Together they have been
able to craft unique guitars and ukuleles which are impervious to temperature changes or humidity.

Currently we offer a line of guitars and ukuleles made from carbon fiber as well as
full wood models. Everything we make is proudly made in our facility in
Wallaceburg and we look forward to 2020 as we prepare for the release of a host of
new products.

Eric Vandamme

Eric Van Damme is currently the Chief Information Officer of Eternity’s Touch, Inc., the premier
fingerprint keepsake company, where he focuses his time in ensuring the highest standards of security
is maintained while leveraging the latest technologies in mobile app development, e-commerce, and
machine learning.

Additionally, he works with other businesses in the community to develop their Information
Technology requirements to fit their business model and leverage their competitive advantage. Van
Damme started his involvement in the community in 2004 with the “Made in Wallaceburg” project
to bring awareness to the community’s contribution to the economy when he realized his own gap
in knowledge about the community and that gap was widely shared.

Van Damme continued his community involvement volunteering at the annual Sydenham
Challenge Dragon Boat Festival, sitting on the board of directors for Victim Services of Sarnia-
Lambton, the board of directors of the Wallaceburg & District Chamber of Commerce, and the
Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s newly formed CK^y Advisory Committee dedicated to showcasing
the community’s many reasons for youth to call it home.

Technology
Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ Integrates physical and online business
❖ Commitment to community

❖ Progressing in a direction above and beyond competitors
❖ Utilizes advancements in technology with positive results

AWARD NOMINEES

Internet Kent

Internet Kent started providing internet services back in 1995. In the early days, we offered dialup
access from our office in downtown Wallaceburg. Back then, we were the only provider to reach
areas like Port Lambton. As the popularity of the internet increased, we expanded to meet the needs.
By 2000 we were able to offer DSL. Eventually we added high speed cable internet access to our list
of packages. In 2005 we began construction of our wireless network to offer high speed to our rural
customers. Over the years, we developed nearly 30 sites in our network to cover the many nooks
and crannies in our area. Our staff has remained very consistent over the years with half of us
employed for over twenty years. Internet Kent is proud of our connection with the community.

Lambton Conveyor

ONE SOURCE. ONE SOLUTION.

Lambton Conveyor Ltd. was founded in 1965 as a small family owned farmstead dealership selling
farm bins and dryers to the local farm community. Soon the founders realized the void for premium
quality storage solutions around the region. As a result, they started innovating and creating a

formidable line of grain storage, material handling and conditioning equipment. Today, we boast an
impressive +200,000 sq. ft. facility in Wallaceburg, Ontario along with other international offices
and manufacturing facilities. Our roots can be traced to the rich Southwestern Ontario farmlands
where we’ve invariably assisted farmers for more than 50 years in providing quality storage solutions
to fulfill their storage needs.

Our strong and constantly expanding global dealer network has enabled us to install projects in more
than 40 countries worldwide. At Lambton, we highly value our customers’ requirements and ensure
that our engineering and support team is committed to providing the most productive and cost-
effective solutions to them. We are one of the very few companies to offer a complete package of
Storage, Handling and Conditioning equipment. Our ‘built to last’ solutions and advanced
manufacturing processes guarantees your products’ long service life, low maintenance and the best
total value in the industry.

We provide design consultations and custom services to many markets: Feed, Seed, Food, Fertilizer,
Grain (Farm & Commercial), Processing, and Industrial. Our global network of trained professionals
work with you on all the stages of your site development concept to completion.

Our range of products includes: Grain Elevators, Grain Bins, Unload Augers, En-Masse Conveyors,
Divided Pan Conveyors, Round Bottom Conveyors, Tube Conveyors, Hopper Bins, Bulk Feed
Bins, Flow Accessories, Valves, Distributors, Feed Milling Equipment, Loop Systems, Grain
Cleaners, Catwalks, Structural Support Systems, Custom Design and Fabrication Services. We
provide storage capacities up to 20,000 Metric Tonnes and Equipment Capacities up to 1,500 Metric
Tonnes/Hour.

Thru Flow

“Many years ago, ThruFlow developed a design that revolutionized an industry, an outdoor panel
made of a composite material with openings to allow for light penetration and precipitation
passthrough. This unique design allows for rough waters to simply pass through the panel, rather
than impact upon it, saving costly damages from ever occurring. Additionally, the light penetration
allows for the eco-system below the dock to continue to thrive, despite the new structure.

With a primarily marine based application, ThruFlow has continued this spirit of innovation and
industry disruptive, introducing new products in January 2019 and again in April 2019.

Most notably, the SOL Series panel, a first of its kind, fully walkable and UV resistant design offers
unique space saving capabilities by integrating solar panel technology right into the top surface of the
panel.

Designed right here in Wallaceburg, and made in Canada, ThruFlow has grown to become a global
brand, with dealers across North America and as far as Australia and Greece. Continuing to focus on
international growth, ThruFlow will represent Chatham-Kent in Amsterdam this November, at the
World’s largest business to business marine tradeshow, METS.”

Chip Gordon

Community Builder

Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ Honours a business leader who has a pioneering business spirit
❖ A positive impact on neighbouring businesses and the well being of the community

❖ Contributes for the benefit of the community
❖ Recognition of contributions above and beyond professional business, activities of elected office

and service club mandates are considered

AWARD NOMINEES

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is a 200-bed community hospital, serving the residents of
Chatham and rural Kent including Walpole Island and Delaware Frist Nations. Formed in 2017,
CKHA is committed to delivering quality and safe care at its two sites in Chatham and Wallaceburg.
CKHA collaborates with other partners to deliver care across its community. CKHA’s dedicated
team is comprised of approximately 1,400 staff, 200 physicians and 300 volunteers.

CKHA provides a full range of programs, services and specialties from internal medicine and surgery
to women & children’s and critical care; it is designated a schedule one facility under the Ministry of
Health and cares for tens of thousands of inpatients, outpatients and emergency patients annually.
CKHA is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostics and technology to support its varied programs.
CKHA’s vision: Together, growing a healthier community, underscores a movement to improving
the population’s health. Grounded by its values “CKHA CARES” (Collaboration, Accountability,
Respect, Excellence, Safety), CKHA commits to continuously improve the patient experience in
partnership with patients, families and caregivers.

Defiance Running Group

The Defiance Running Club was formed in April of 2013. The club's goal from the onset was to
create a youth running program to coincide with its adult program. Since Defiance's inception, the
club has averaged 100 adult members each year and at one time reach nearly 200 members.
The youth program, which is the main focus of the club began in September of 2013 with 9 schools
and over 500 students participating. The students, in that inaugural year, managed to achieve over
11,000 kilometers in our eight-week program .In 2014, the program expanded, becoming county-
wide, with 17 schools participating, including over 3000 students that ran and walked to reach a total
of over 33,000 kilometers. In 2016, the program was revamped into a pilot project, dubbed,
“Running for Reading” where the students were paid .15 per kilometer to run. This test project was
limited to just three Wallaceburg schools. During the 2017-2018 school year, the youth program,
once again, expanded, this time to 11 schools. Students achieved nearly 30,000 kilometers that year,
raising almost $5,000.00 for new books.

These numbers were eclipsed in 2019, involving 18 schools with almost 4000 students participating,
reaching 83,400 kilometres, raising over $12,000.00 for books and playground equipment. Schools
from Blenheim, Chatham, Wallaceburg, Petrolia, Brigden, Port Lambton and Sarnia participated.

Our youth program is an 8 week program that currently runs every year from April 1 to May 31.
Every student that participates receives a Defiance Diploma with their name and distance on it. The
top two students at each school receive an Oustanding Achievement Award as well as a $50.00 cash
prize. Our program serves as a stepping stone, to help students become active, a goal that we hope
stays with the students for life.

Defiance has hosted a Jingle All the Way Run each year since its inception. Jingle All the Way was a
race created by Karen Eddleston and group known as the Squirrels. Karen and her group were kind
enough to allows us to make the Jingle run part of the Defiance program. The Jingle All the Way is
a fun run created to collect food for St. Vincent de Paul. This food is used in Christmas baskets for
those less fortunate. Other races hosted by Defiance include the WAMBO River Run and
Shamrocks and Shenanigans. The proceeds from both races are used in our youth program.

Each spring, Defiance hosts a 12 week, Couch to 5k program, designed to help walkers and inactive
folks complete their first 5k race. The program is designed to conclude the week of the St. Clair
River Run so graduates of the program may participate in their first 5k.

Our current executive consists of: Mark Childs, Joe Perry, Dana Haggith, Lee Foster, Teena Hubert,
Kevin O'Connor, Karen Matak Eddleston, Wendy VerCauteren, Jason Walter, Ron Ameloot,
Bryan Cowden, Leon Roegiest, Anne Fournier, and last , but certainly not lest, Jorge Cunha, our
supervisor from Heaven

519 Events & Promotions

Founded by Morena McDonald in 2018, 519 Events & Promotions has brought several community
events to Chatham-Kent such as Etsy: Made in Canada and the Dresden Night Market. The 519
Team now works with organizations and companies across the region on their corporate and
community events and projects.

Volunteer of the
Year Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ Honours a service club, individual or volunteer
❖ Actively works towards making our community a friendly, responsible and safer place

❖ Goes above and beyond the call of duty to support the community

AWARD NOMINEES

Karen Moran

Downtown Wallaceburg has been a part of Karen Moran’s life for as long as she can remember.
From spending her teenage years working at the local record store, to publishing the weekly
newspaper from her James St. office, to opening her current place of business, the well-known
Glasses & Grapes, on Nelson St. nearly 15 years ago, Karen has always taken great pride in
contributing to the success of local businesses.
As a member of the Downtown Wallaceburg BIA, Karen has worked hard to help accomplish the
organization’s vision of creating a welcoming, successful downtown business area that rivals those of
larger cities. When not busy running her own store, Karen has worked tirelessly to elevate the image
of the downtown business corridor. She successfully submitted grant proposals to receive funding for
summer students to help achieve the goals of the BIA and helps lead the organization of the annual
Christmas holiday open house.

Currently, Karen is working with a small group of Wallaceburg business owners who continue to
work on and implement ideas to help revitalize the downtown and promote the products and
services of local businesses.

Karen grew up in Wallaceburg, but now resides in Port Lambton on the shores of the St. Clair
River where she enjoys gardening, painting, cooking and spending time with her husband John, and
their seven children and six grandchildren.

Sherri Wills

Sherri-Anne Wills was born and raised in Petrolia. She moved to Wallaceburg 12 years ago with her
husband since his ancestral roots are here. She has many passions which guides her down the path of
life. Her love of bicycling led her 3 years ago to create the Biking community. An all inclusive free
activity open to all that enjoy biking and socializing in unique way. While traveling through town
she noticed a need for a children’s bike safety course and organized this year’s Bike Rodeo with
community involvement, which saw over 60 children attended.

Her love of gardening and her organizational skills led her to be approached by the Downtown
Wallaceburg BIA, who asked her to be Chair of their Gardening Club, in pursuit to restore the
horticultural society in Wallaceburg. She was instrumental in maintaining the beauty of downtowns
gardens and containers into October.

She is an active member and volunteer of the Wallaceburg Adult Activity Centre as well as the
Neighbourhood Watch.

As a loving Wife, Mother, and Grandmother, Sherri enjoys life to the fullest by living out her motto,
an Etienne De Grellet quote

“I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human
being; let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again”

The Wills Family (Dresden)

Christal and Darren Wills were born and raised in Dresden and are both active members of the
community.

During their teen years they both worked together at McKellar’s Flowers and Gifts as delivery
drivers. After college Christal returned to work at McKellar’s full time as a florist, before purchasing
the business from long-time owner Paul McKellar in July of 2004. Since that time she has expanded
the business to include event decorating, linen rental and dry cleaning.

Christal and Darren both come from strong community-oriented families and have spent numerous
hours volunteering over the years in many capacities, for several different local service clubs, events
and fundraisers.

Today Christal is the chair person for the BIA and has been for the past 13 years. She looks after the
Explore Dresden Facebook page, the dresden.ca website and maintains the community
announcement boards located at each end of town, promoting Dresden businesses and events that
happen though out the year. Christal was honored with the Paul Harris award through the Dresden
Rotary. This is award is given to an individual or organization in recognition for all their volunteer
hours to better their community.

She has been nick-named the ticket master of Dresden, offering up a central location for
organizations to have tickets for events readily available for purchase.

Christal is also the current Dresden Legion Branch 113 Ladies Aux. Vice President and long-time
member of the Dresden Agricultural Society along with her Husband Darren. They were honored
this past July to be the Parade Marshalls for the 144th Dresden Ex.

Darren is currently the Kinsmen Zone 6 District Secretary. He has been a member of the Dresden
Kinsmen Club since 2004, serving as president, treasurer, secretary and chair of several club events.
Including the Kinstock Music Festival, Annual Pet & Hobby parade and Easter Egg hunt. He is the
long-time chair of the Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade and the Annual Kinsmen fish fry in January.

They have passed that desire onto their two daughters Jacklyn, 19 and Jordan, 16 and are eager to
continue giving back as Dresden ambassadors. Because of their love for their family, friends and
community, Christal and Darren both work hard and go above and beyond to make their
community a much better place to live and work. This has made Dresden and the surrounding
communities thrive

Community
Inclusion Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ Honours a Chatham-Kent business or individual
❖ Demonstrates their commitment to provide employment opportunities for people with

significant barriers or disabilities
❖ Their innovative approach as an employer creates an inclusive workforce and in turn a healthier

community

AWARD NOMINEES

Oaks Retirement Village

The Oaks Retirement Village welcomed its first resident in November of 2014. In those five years
we have strived to offer a truly amazing living experience in every aspect of our resident’s lives.
Whether that be their daily dining experience, their health and wellness, or by providing an
enriching social and safe lifestyle. In those five years we have increased our workforce greatly, built
an addition, opened the first private memory care secure unit for the Chatham-Kent area, and
brought our community of 112 suites to a 100 % occupancy. We are proud of this achievement and
understand it is a direct result of commitment to our residents, and idea that is greatly believed and
held dear by our local owners, Dave Van Segbrook & Jean Laprise.
Our goal for is to give every residents a home that is optimally balanced between a high focus on
residents physical care while also ensuring a high focus on a residents independence.
We believe that our retirement community offers an amazing solutions for seniors that face social
isolation, barriers to their everyday independence in their home, as well as complex medical issues
associated with aging. We provide the solutions for all those things while maintaining a person’s
independence and identity.

Our goal is to make residents feel like they are on cruise ship and not a hospital, and to have our
residents feel like they are loved and important for each and every day of their lives.

Along with employing over 70 employees, the Oaks also does work with many local contractors.
We were happy to employ local companies for almost all aspects of our initial renovation as well as
our addition in its construction. We strive to be a great community partner in many areas including
our advertising and sponsorships whenever possible. We also partner with different organization for
not only the health and wellness of our buildings community but our local municipal community as
well.

Little Caesars Pizza

We are honoured to have been nominated for this award and would like to congratulate fellow
nominees. I have dedicated myself and my company to providing inclusive employment
opportunities for everyone who arises to rise to their potential and be the best they can be.

This reward is particularly important to me because there is a personal history of discrimination and
exclusive in my family. My mother contracted Polio as a young child and her inability to walk
without a limp caused discrimination and verbal abuse her entire life. It didn’t matter that she was
smart and educated, all people could see was her disability.

When I had the opportunity to shape the corporate culture of my own company, it was solely based
on my morals and intentions of inclusivity. I soon discovered that If I wanted my company to be
exclusive. I had to teach all team members what it was that motivated me and why I was intent on
including those differences.

Little Caesars started in Sarnia -Lambton in 2003 with one store and grew to 5 stores in 5 years. We
have always been committed to fair and accessible employment practises and the diversity of our
employees reflect that commitment. At Little Caesars, we believe it is intrinsically set an example,
not just by meeting Accessibility Standards. The majority of all our employees are under 25 years of
age. Since 2012, Little Caesars in Sarnia-Lambton/Kent area has partnered with different agencies to
provide opportunities for those who are discriminated against and having trouble getting
employment. Together with these agencies, we are dedicated to employing people who may not
otherwise find employment. These partnerships are an invaluable resource for our inclusive
recruitment Goodwill Career Centre, Lambton College Summer Job Services, Community Living
St. Clair College-Ontario works and Strathroy Community Employment.

Crabby Joes

Crabby Joes Bar and Grill has been managed by Charlie Kridiotis for almost 10 years providing a
variety of meals ranging from healthy salads to Steaks, to pasta and Fajitas. Crabby Joes employs 35
part time and full-time staff and is always an active contributor to the Wallaceburg and Chatham
Kent community. Crabby Joes has endeavored to work with Job Match to benefit both the
community and Crabby Joes, A win, win condition.

Wallaceburg

BIA Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ Honours a person or a group, BIA or non-BIA Member
❖ Contributes to the betterment of the Wallaceburg Downtown BIA District
❖ Contributes through selfless donations of time, labor, knowledge, funds, abilities and caring to

make our downtown a better place to be

AWARD NOMINEES

Sherri Wills

Sherri-Anne Wills was born and raised in Petrolia. She moved to Wallaceburg 12 years ago with her
husband since his ancestral roots are here. She has many passions which guides her down the path of
life. Her love of bicycling led her 3 years ago to create the Biking community. An all inclusive free
activity open to all that enjoy biking and socializing in unique way. While traveling through town
she noticed a need for a children’s bike safety course and organized this year’s Bike Rodeo with
community involvement, which saw over 60 children attended.
Her love of gardening and her organizational skills led her to be approached by the Downtown
Wallaceburg BIA, who asked her to be Chair of their Gardening Club, in pursuit to restore the
horticultural society in Wallaceburg. She was instrumental in maintaining the beauty of downtowns
gardens and containers into October.
She is an active member and volunteer of the Wallaceburg Adult Activity Centre as well as the
Neighbourhood Watch. As a loving Wife, Mother, and Grandmother, Sherri enjoys life to the fullest
by living out her motto, an Etienne De Grellet quote
“I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human
being; let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again”

Citizen of the
Year Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ Honours a citizen who is a resident of North Kent
❖ Contributes to the benefit of the community and not restricted to any special interest group

❖ Contributions over the last five years are considered
❖ Recognition of contributions above and beyond professional business, activities of elected office

and service club mandates are considered

AWARD NOMINEES

Kim O’Neil

At the age of 17 Kim started working in the tire business. In 1993 opened own building O’Neil Tire
& Battery at 69 McNaughton Ave in Wallaceburg. The year Kim 2000 started to redo barn with
vintage items such as old farm tools, sickle’s, tools for model a cars, model a tractors (14 of his own),
washing machines , old model butter churns.
Friends started donating to Kim all kinds of vintage items,60 pieces farm implements displayed
around farmyard Including antique pedal tractors and cars. One day a year friends come to display
their antiques such as firetrucks, tractors, pedal cars and tractors, homemade items, food donations
are made to salvation army.

Dr. Robert Mayo

I have been a family doctor in Wallaceburg since moving here from Newfoundland with my wife
Evelyne and 2 of our sons, Chris and Ian in 1989.Our 3rd son Jamie, was born in Wallaceburg
shortly after our arrival.

For 24 years, my practice included seeing patients in the office and in the hospital, both on the
impatient unit and in the emergency department. I experienced the excitement and the joy of
delivering babies until the Obstetrics Unit closed at the Sydenham Campus about 15 years ago. In
addition, I had the pleasure of seeing residents in both Fairfield Park Nursing Home and Sydenham
Residence (now called The Wallaceburg Retirement Residence.).

Over the past few years I have given up my office practice, my work in the Emergency Department
and my practice at Fairfield Park. I have focused mainly in palliative care, seeing patients in the
community as well as in the hospital. Since April 2016 I have had the privilege of being part of the
team at the Chatham Kent Hospice where I am the Lead Physician.

I graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) degree from the Royal Military College of
Canada in 1973 and then served for 5 years in the Canadian Armed Forces before returning to
university to study medicine at Queens’ University in Kingston, graduating in 1983. I spent the next
3 years doing a rotating internship at Western followed by a Family Medicine Residency at
Dalhousie University. I began my medical career in Newfoundland where practiced for three years
before coming to Wallaceburg.

I try to remain active through running, swimming and cycling. Evelyn and I enjoy hiking, canoeing
and traveling, usually in Canada. Since August 27, however, we both agree that topping our list of
things we like to do is spending time with our new granddaughter and first grandchild, Rosie.

Moving to Wallaceburg is a decision we have never regretted, and we are proud to call it home.

I am fully retired in June 30, 2019 and look forward to spending more time with Evelyn and our
family.

The Chamber
Choice Award

Sponsored by

CRITERIA

❖ The Chamber Choice Award recognises the best of the best when it comes to an individual
who is dedicated to the Wallaceburg and District area. These individuals help us to make this
community a better place to work and live. Nominees exemplify excellence through
dedication, community leadership and achievements.

AWARD NOMINEES

Sherri Wills

Sherri-Anne Wills was born and raised in Petrolia. She moved to Wallaceburg 12 years ago with her
husband since his ancestral roots are here. She has many passions which guides her down the path of
life. Her love of bicycling led her 3 years ago to create the Biking community. An all inclusive free
activity open to all that enjoy biking and socializing in unique way. While traveling through town
she noticed a need for a children’s bike safety course and organized this year’s Bike Rodeo with
community involvement, which saw over 60 children attended.
Her love of gardening and her organizational skills led her to be approached by the Downtown
Wallaceburg BIA, who asked her to be Chair of their Gardening Club, in pursuit to restore the
horticultural society in Wallaceburg. She was instrumental in maintaining the beauty of downtowns
gardens and containers into October.
She is an active member and volunteer of the Wallaceburg Adult Activity Centre as well as the
Neighborhood Watch.

As a loving Wife, Mother, and Grandmother, Sherri enjoys life to the fullest by living out her motto,
an Etienne De Grellet quote

“I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human
being; let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again”

Stephen Bilodeau

The 4 Companies Steve Bilodeau owns and operates are all housed in Wallaceburg, surrounded by
amazing staff and family, Bilodeau has had the privilege of investing in Wallaceburg and has played
an integral part in the resurrection of our Industrial Area, and employe’s multiple dedicated people.

These 4 companies believe firmly that business isn’t just about the financial gain, we believe it is
about the people. We actively look at ways to participate in multiple events that make a positive
impact within our community, we invest our time and resources by partnering with other amazing
volunteers that support Wallaceburg to make it everyone’s choice to be the community people want
to live, work and play.

Wallaceburg Concert Band

The Wallaceburg Concert Band is a local success story with few equals. Barely three-years old, the
band has already firmly entrenched itself into the cultural fabric of the community and will soon be
spreading its wings beyond our local borders. Born out of the termination of the long-established
Music Program at WDSS, organizers recognized a need, and jumped on the opportunity to re-
establish a community band, the likes of which had vanished decades ago. The band found a willing
partner in the Wallaceburg Arts Council, the call went out to find musicians, and the call was
answered resoundingly! In addition to many local members, the group has also attracted members
from Chatham, Sarnia, London, Windsor, Rodney, Blenheim and parts between making it the
largest band in the region. In recognizing the need to establish a feeder-system to ensure long-term
stability, the group has also established a free learn-to-play program for beginners.

The band has won over huge public support and has helped raise in excess of $100,000 in its short
lifetime, enabling the group to purchase the much-needed, expensive instruments and supplies that
have helped propel it forward. Concentrating on establishing music excellence first, public concerts
to date have been limited in number but will no-doubt increase in the coming years. Far more than
just a band, the group has also become engaged in other areas of the community including the local
Dragon Boat races where this year, their entry was awarded the Spirit Award. Look for many great
things to happen in future as the group reaches into the community even further.

152 Duncan Street, Wallaceburg, ON, N8A 4E2
5193627.1443 | [email protected]

www.wallaceburgchamber.com