Business Excellence Awards presented

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The Healthcare Professional of the Year award went to Dr. Sean Sinasac from River Towne Dental. He said he believes if one invests in the community, the community “will invest back into you.”

“Keep investing in the town, big or small,” said Sinasac.

The Tourism/Hospitality Award was won by Burger 67 owner Dave Bshouty.

“The community supported us during the hardest times,” said Bshouty.

Bshouty said they opened in November 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and were only open 20 weeks in their first year.

“I wouldn’t be here without you guys,” he told the audience.

The Non-Profit/Charitable Award was earned by Wings Rehabilitation Centre. Owner Nancy Phillips was unable to attend but wildlife co-ordinator Jennifer Dalley offered Wings’ thanks for the award and the support they were shown.

The Employer of the Year award went to Sobeys Amherstburg, with newly-retired franchisee Rennie Rota accepting. He acknowledged new franchisees Rick and Krista Truant and said he was “truly excited for Sobeys future” in Amherstburg. He said the store will celebrate its 20th anniversary in July. Rota added nothing made him happier than the staff the store employs.

The Business Legacy Award was presented to Peter Leardi from 67 Richmond. Leardi recalled turning down an employment offer in 1985 and instead signing a lease to open his own business at age 22. He said the business has grown over the last 37 years to where it has a new location in Amherstburg and a second location in Tecumseh.

That Cheese Place, represented by owners Gina VanDerGroef and Terry Wiley, won New Business of the Year. Wiley indicated they have attracted customers from across the area and were thankful for the support they’ve received.

The Farm House Market captured the Small Business of the Year Award. Owner

Elisa Quaggiotto thanked her parents and customers, stating “you hope people see what you see,” she said.

Business has grown, Quaggiotto added, citing an example of preparing 20 soups when she started to 250 now. “

Joe Meloche Ford earned the Large Business of the Year award. Michelle Ropac, Lisa Jones and Joe Meloche accepted the award and thanked the community for its support over the years.

Mayor Michael Prue told the audience that he is optimistic about the future.

“Everything is happening in Amherstburg these days,” said Prue.

Prue said there are new homes and new development happening in town.

“We have a region that is just on fire,” said Prue, citing the battery plant announcements in Windsor and St. Thomas. “We are poised to make huge inroads in the coming years. This is Amherstburg’s chance.”

In the days following the meeting, it was learned Stellantis is making “contingency plans” regarding the proposed Windsor battery plant with the company stating the federal government has yet to deliver on what was agreed upon.

According to Prue, there are interested parties “seriously looking” at the Amherstburg Land Holdings property. Town council approved a Community Improvement Plan (CIP), which could lead to the ability to offer incentives if needed to potential developers, he added.

Prue encouraged area businesses to pull together, stating people will come and stay in Amherstburg.