LAC LA BICHE - The Lac La Biche District Chamber of Commerce 2024 Business Awards Gala is set to take place on Nov. 16 at the Plamondon Festival Center.
River McDonald, the executive director of the Lac La Biche and District Chamber of Commerce, which represents just over 100 businesses in the region, said the event is important as it recognizes and celebrates local businesses.
“Award Gala's are integral to business communities to draw the community together and celebrate the wins and successes of businesses,” she told Lakeland This Week.
For this year’s awards gala, businesses were eligible to win in eight distinct categories, including Community Leadership Award, Excellence in Customer Service Award, New Business Award, Indigenous Business Award of Distinction, Hospitality and Tourism Award, Outstanding Employer Award, along with Business of the Year – Under 20 years, and Business of the Year – Over 20 Years.
Nominations for the categories wrapped up on Nov. 8, with selected winners being announced at the gala. Businesses were allowed to self-nominate, while some were selected by others.
While there are no cash prizes, winning businesses are bestowed with awards and showcased with the chamber of commerce.
“Businesses will receive an award that can be displayed at their business, along with bragging rights and a spotlight on the Lac La Biche Chamber website,” she explained.
Judging was done out of the area by a judging committee comprised of two staff from other Chambers of Commerce across the province and staff from the Alberta Chambers of Commerce.
“Judging (took) place out of Lac La Biche to stay impartial and fair,” McDonald said, adding that officials with the Lac La Biche and District Chamber of Commerce are estimating at least 200 attendees for the 2024 Business Awards Gala.
Tickets for the gala are $80 each and can be purchased at the Chamber’s website or at Costa Café, Screenshot Computers, North Country Coop, and Love Eats Café in Plamondon.
More details about the event can be found in the Chamber’s advertisement in the Nov. 12 edition of the Lakeland This Week newspaper.
