The Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce Mark of Excellence Awards once again took to the digital world for the 2021 edition. Co-hosted by Chamber Director Brent Fitzpatrick and Carlton Trail College CEO Shelley Romanyshyn-Cross, the hour long presentation celebrated the accomplishments of Humboldt and area business in what has been the most challenging environment imaginable. 

The Awards’ major sponsor, Nutrien, was represented by CEO Rob Jackson, who explained Nutrien’s involvement as one of connection with community values and local businesses. The online presentation was punctuated with wonderful logo drawings of category sponsors done by children from the Humboldt Daycare Centre. 

Mayor Michael Behiel brought greetings on behalf of the City of Humboldt and informed the award recipients that each would receive a “Heart of It All” commemorative coin. Humboldt Watrous MLA Donna Harpauer joined the evening remotely as did MP Kelly Block, both of whom applauded the work of local businesses in persevering through the pandemic trials and lockdowns. 

The Business Hall of Fame induction kicked off the awards portion. Dave and Darlene Eberle, well known for various business ventures, notably owners of the Dairy Queen restaurant in Humboldt were this year’s entrants. The Eberles moved to Humboldt in 1984 when Darlene took on the role of manager at the Dairy Queen and Dave began a law practice. Both Dave and Darlene have served on countless local and provincial boards and agencies. 

Saskatchewan’s own bearded pundit from Tufnell, Quick Dick McDick, made a guest appearance, reflecting on the year that was in the business community. The conversation ranged from Quick Dick McDick (aka QDM) campaigning with the support of former Premier Brad Wall for Governor General to the burgeoning popularity of QDM branded clothing. The YouTube personality talked about his sourcing Canadian materials and manufacturers and the importance of supporting local providers through his process.

“My mom would be so proud that I now know what an 80/20 cotton-poly bunny hug is all about,” he quipped. 

McDick also provided his perspective on the availability of goods and the ease of dealing with local business people.

“Instead of clicking away, why not just stroll on down to a local business, your local Home Hardware or your local Co-op. I promise that if you go and talk to somebody, not only do you get to catch up on the local gossip, but you also get to make sure a business is getting the revenue instead of Amazon. Amazon is going to be just fine.”

One of the talented classes from A-List Dance Studios redubbed themselves the Quick Dick McDick dancers and performed a hip-hop number to a parody honouring Saskatchewan’s recent cold snap. The pre-recorded and social distanced “Soul Train” brought the troupe's youthful energy to the evening’s proceedings.

Award winners were announced through the remainder of the evening. They included:

Adaptive Business Award – Sponsored by Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce - Winner: Haus of Stitches

Community Merit Award – Sponsored by Conexus Credit Union - Winner: Humboldt Community Services

Safety Leadership Award – Sponsored by Worksafe Saskatchewan - Winner: Humboldt Co-op Agro

Youth Involvement Award—sponsored by the Humboldt Bronco’s Memorial Golf Tournament - Winner: 1st Westminster Scout Group

Community Involvement Award – Sponsored by the City of Humboldt - Winner: Terry’s No Frills

Marketing Award – sponsored by CJVR/Beach Radio - Winner: Aspen Floors

Growth and Expansion Award – Sponsored by The Wireless Age - Winner: Viking Benefit Solutions

Service Award – sponsored by Terry’s No Frills - Winner: Elite Salon and Spa / Weber & Gasper Law Office

Entrepreneur of the Year Award – Sponsored by Sagehill Community Futures - Winner: A-List Dance & Acrobatics

New Business Award – The Humboldt Journal - Winner: Lindsey Ortman, RMT

Business of the Year – sponsored by BHP - Winner: Viking Benefits Solutions

The evening combined the technical and clerical talents of numerous contributors and thanks went out to the Chamber of Commerce Board for their ongoing support of the awards and the business community at large.

The Awards can be viewed on the Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.