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Wednesday, May 13, 2026
ACOC presents 21st annual Business Excellence Awards
The winners of the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce’s 21st annual Business Excellence Awards gather for a group photo after the ceremony at the Columbian Club in McGregor May 7.
By Ron Giofu
The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) has paid tribute to the business community and to service groups thanks to its 21st annual Business Excellence Awards (BEAs). The BEAs were presented last Thursday night at the Columbian Club in McGregor with 16 local businesses, individuals and non-profit organizations recognized. ACOC president Dan Gemus said chambers from as far as Grimsby, Oshawa, Sarnia and Barrie helped provide input into the judging process. Sponsors were thanked and all nominees were congratulated with Gemus stating the hall was sold out again this year. Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb brought greetings from town council and thanked all of the businesses for what they do for the community. He said business owners and staff put their time, energy and heart into what they do. “You are a huge part of what makes Amherstburg a special place to live,” Gibb told the crowd. Business owners show determination, creativity and resiliency, he added. “I believe Amherstburg has a bright future,” said Gibb. “Amherstburg is a wonderful place to work, live, visit and have a business.”
Ron DeYonge from title sponsor Everjonge Homes also cited the importance of what businesses give to a community. “They give strength, resilience and character to our town,” he said. The 16 award winners were featured in a video made by Digital Dragonfly, where winners gave their remarks. They were also allowed to address the crowd in person. Joe Meloche Ford was honoured with the Milestone Recognition Award for their 40 years of service. Founders Joe and Shirley Meloche started the dealership in 1986 and it expanded in 2014. They were recognized with numerous accolades from the Ford Motor Company during that time. They sold the business to their daughters Lisa Jones and Michelle Ropac in 2016 and they continue the family tradition. That award was sponsored by Community Living Essex County. The Youth Engagement/Leadership Award was presented to Sophie Rivait. Rivait was honoured for her leadership in school, when she was in the Anderdon Leadership Club and now at North Star High School. She is on student parliament, organizes events and promotes causes important to her, helps run toy drives, makes posters for events at the school and serves as a peer mentor.
(Above photo) Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157, represented by president Shawn Wilkie (left), won the Community Service/Charitable Award. Mike Scherer of award sponsor WFCU makes the presentation. (Below photo) The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission won the Believe Amherstburg Award. Mission president Tim McAllister accepts the award from Amy Bailey, who represented award sponsor Team Brad Bondy.
Continued on Page 9
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