The Meaford and District Chamber of Commerce 12th Annual Community Awards was combined Saturday with the Rotary Club’s Citizen of the Year.
It was given out for the 28th time!
Sheila Carmichael is probably Meaford’s best known volunteer, active in community gardens, Meaford Hall, her church and many charitable organizations.
The award exemplifies Rotary’s motto, “Service above Self.”
Two businesses shared honours for Most Improved Business — Jenean and Brian Doucette of “Solitudes Spa” and Christine Collins of “The Kitchen.”
“Margo’s Shade Shop” captured this year’s Customer Service Award.
Steven Vance of “the Meaford Independent” received the Tourism Award for commitment to the community by a service or hospitality business.
Brian Gilroy of “Nighthawk Orchards” was named Agribusiness of the Year for its support of the apple business in Meaford.
David Richardson of “Cliff Richardson Boat Works” was named Business Owner of the Year.
Richardson’s is the only full-service marina in the Southern Georgian Bay area and plays an important role in Meaford Harbour.
David and Norma Collis, owners of “Holly Cottage Bed and Breakfast” at Woodford received the Peter Francis Memorial Award for community leadership in the rejuvenation and maintenance of Woodford Hall.
The Meaford Fire Department was recognized with the Special Merit Award for exceptional service to the community.
Volunteers on the force devote many hours to training for the types of emergencies that lead to about 70 calls a year.