Awards were presented to seven Sault area businesses at the 2023 Sault Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet at DreamMakers Theatre of Kewadin Casinos yesterday evening, but that was not the only surprise at this year's business appreciation event.
The night's guest speaker was Pure Michigan Vice President David Lorenz.
The VP gave approximately 250 attendees a sneak peak at its upcoming 2023 advertisement, centered around the freshness of Michigan air, land, and water. And, yes, Tim Allen's voice will still be heard.
“A breath of fresh air will do you a world of good,” said Lorenz, dedicated to revving up tourism throughout the mitten state and its Upper Peninsula.
Next, members of the Sault Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program's graduating class received recognitions of completion. Some came prepared with a few words of their own.
"This program is undoubtedly a gem in our community that I am fortunate to say I have participated in," Natalie LaCoursiere said, having recently moved from Canada in 2020. "This group has been an integral resource for me, for community, for friendship, for overall growth, and for understanding the pillars that make up our community – my new community."
A few of those pillars were then called up to the main stage.
The 2022 Donna Bergfalk Ambassador of the Year Award winner was Anna Piche for her commitment to the city and its businesses. The award was presented to Piche by Ambassador President Terri Parker.
The City of Sault Ste Marie Economic Preservation Award was presented to Soo Theatre and J&C Development by Mayor Don Gerrie, City Manager Brian Chapman, and Downtown Development Authority Director Stephanie Sprecker.
Soo Theatre Board President Colleen Arbic accepted the award on behalf of the historic theatre. Justin and Caryn Knepper of J&C Development accepted their business award for working diligently to find contractors and secure funding.
Sprecker commended the Kneppers and theatre board for collaborating to make “extensive progress” over 2022 in restoration efforts, especially on the structure’s exterior.
“The city also recognizes the economic impact created by the project, which has resulted in local and regional contractors hired for work in the amount of $200,000,” Sprecker added.
The Sault Ste Marie Economic Development Commission (EDC) Industry Achievement Award was given to the JETA Corporation team. The award was presented by EDC Executive Director Jeff Holt.
The Sault Ste Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) Hospitality Industry Leadership Award winner was Dr. Tom Robinson. CVB Executive Director Linda Hoath presented the award via Zoom.
“I just want everyone to know how much time he puts into community projects,” Hoath said. “He gives all he can even though he is retired. He is an amazing man.”
The 2022 F.M. Mansfield Philanthropic Business Award was given to Michael Lynn of Lynn Auto Parts, and presented by Chamber President Tony Haller. Haller thanked Lynn for financially contributing to youth sports.
“There are many underprivileged kids in this area who can't afford cleats,” Lynn said. “They can't afford equipment. I just see myself in a lot of those kids, and try to help model as much as I can.”
Finally, Haller presented the 2022 Overall Business of the Year Award to Central Savings Bank (CVB). CVB has extended its resources to multiple community fundraising efforts over 2022.
Follow and read Soo Leader to learn more about the winners of this year's Sault Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet.
