As we delve into 2012, the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce is asking us to look back at the past year and recall the people, businesses and organizations that have made an impact in our lives.
The Chamber is calling for nominations for the 2011 Spirit of Ladysmith Community Awards, which will be handed out in February. It’s time to start thinking about the people and businesses you think deserve to be recognized.
Eight awards will be presented, and there are categories for Business of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Not-for-Profit Organization, Customer Service, Volunteer of the Year and Youth of the Year. The awards are meant to recognize achievement and leadership and to honour those who make an impact in and around Ladysmith.
Past winners include Ladysmith Health Food Store (Business of the Year), Lena Birtwistle (Youth of the Year), Ladysmith and District Credit Union (Large Business of the Year) and Val Duckworth (Volunteer of the Year).
We’re sure there are lots of people out there who go about their day-to-day business and make a difference in your lives without even knowing it. They never expect any recognition, but this is the perfect opportunity to let them know how much you appreciate them.
It’s fitting that the awards have the words “spirit” and “community” in their name, because peer-nominated awards like these sure help build a sense of community. The awards ceremony — which is changing this year to a more affordable night of awards, appetizers and dancing in an effort to attract more people and bring in more of the community — sounds like it will be another of those great events that brings everyone together and makes you feel lucky you call this community your home.
Nomination forms are available at the Chamber office at 411B First Ave. The deadline for nominations is Jan. 20, so start filling out those forms.