Chamber event received 74 nominations

The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce recognized outstanding businesses, organizations and people Nov. 8 at the 13th Rainy River District Business Awards Banquet.
The 12 awardees were selected from 74 nominees for outstanding business achievement and contributions to the economic growth and prosperity of the region.
There are two Business of the Year awards were presented for demonstrated passion and excellence as a role model for other businesses. The small Business of the Year award went to M.L. Caron Electric Ltd. The large Business of the Year award went to Canadian Tire.
The Employee of the Year is Debbie Hallikas of Domino’s Pizza. The award is presented to an employee of outstanding merit, along with a positive and supporting attitude in the performance in and outside the workplace.
The Entrepreneur of the Year is Pat and Kim Cornell of Cornell Farms. The award is presented for demonstrated innovation, vision, and business growth.
The Business Woman of the Year is Deb Cornell of Rainy River Elk Company. The award is presented for growth and self development of a business or profession in the Rainy River District.
The Tony Beyak Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award went to Lyle Dolph. It is presented for volunteerism, leadership, innovation, and creativity.
The Customer Service awards were presented to a business and an individual that has raised standards of excellence of quality service and exceeding customer expectations.
The Business Customer Service awards was presented to Tompkin's Hardware. The Individual Customer Service award was presented to Debbie Hallikas of Domino’s Pizza.
The Safety Award for Business or Individual was presented to Family & Children's Services. It is presented to a business or an individual that has demonstrated noticeable safety standards and performance in the workplace or community.
The Small Business Trainer of the Year went to Ed Kaun & Sons Ltd. The award is presented to a small business that consistently hires and mentors under skilled workers with work education and training or apprenticeship opportunities.
The Accessibility Award went to Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board. It is presented for outstanding efforts to improve accessibility and reducing barriers for people with social and physical disabilities.