More than a dozen Nipawin and area businesses were recognized at the Chamber of Commerce ABEX Awards and Business Recognitions.
Sheldon and Greg Peifer and family received the agriculture award. Their farm was established in 1909. While the business focuses on grain, at one time, the family also ran a hog operation and a dairy herd.
The service award was presented to Nipawin Chrysler Dodge Yamaha Lund.
“My uncle started the dealership in 1972,” said Ivan Stankowski. He remembered his uncle’s words of wisdom: “Take care of your customer, and your customer will take care of you.”
Gypsy Moon Herbal Shoppe, owned by Tracy Collison, won the retail award.
“Tracy had a dream, a vision, for many years, before she actually made it a reality. On December 21, 2010, she opened her store on Main Street,” said Marlon Zacharias, first vice president of the Chamber.
Finally, the heritage award was won by Davis Rexall Drugs. In a prepared statement read by Zacharias, the manager, Rick Gaertner, recalled the early days of the business.
“Rumours had it that the business existed at the old Nipawin town site and moved in 1924 when the town moved.”
The pharmacy has expanded from one computer to 15 and survived doctor shortages, pharmacist shortages and serious vandalism.
Two other Chamber businesses were honoured on Feb. 11. Nipawin Florist & Twisted Tree received the retailer of distinction award from the Canadian Gift Association, while Heritage Funeral Home was inducted into the National Funeral Directors Association hall of excellence.
The Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors was introduced. Mark Knox is continuing on as president and Melissa Taylor is second vice president. Directors are Jason McFall, Tammy Runn, Rebecca Funk, Rhonda Teichreb, Lewis Robin, Shauna Lariviere, Karla Bernesky, Bonnie Breadner, Bryan Baranski, Kelvin Burton, Cristen Walker, Kevin LeCuyer and Clayton Derbowka.
The evening included various Chamber of Commerce recognitions. Murray Dunn GM - Chegus RV Parts Outlet received the Business Recognition.
KT Family Clothing was recognized for a new location and business expansion. Diamond North Credit Union underwent building renovations, as did Credential Financial Strategies. CFS also has a new manager.
Gar Williams Agencies is under new ownership. Nipawin Agencies/H&R Block underwent a business expansion. The Nipawin & District Living Forestry Museum received two new paintings.
New Chamber of Commerce members included CMC Services, Cooney’s Tap & Grill, LeCuyer Welding & Machine, Tisdale Rentals, Nipawin Computer Solutions and Ultimate Marine Solutions.
Gieni’s Fine Family Restaurant celebrated a 20th anniversary. Fabmar Communications was recognized for its 50th anniversary. Andres Cleaners celebrated its 70th anniversary.
