Any business owner will tell you that having a business in a “small town” in today’s economy presents unique challenges. But it doesn’t mean that business can’t be booming — especially in Akwesasne, where the small business community seems to be thriving.
So it’s no surprise that it was a packed house at the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino’s Winter Ballroom last Friday, October 2nd, as the first annual Akwesasne Business Excellence Awards made its debut. Community members came out, arriving on the red carpet dressed to impress, in support of those business members nominated for an award.
The $80 a plate –Â black tie affair was sold out just a few days prior. The event strived to recognize Akwesasne’s business community and future leaders.
The evening was emceed by none other than Akwesasne Mohawk Casino’s own Buck Cook, who cracked jokes and kept the crowed engaged for the duration of 3+ hour event. ABEA attendees had a chance to win door prizes including Casino Spa Packages, Casino free-play, and $50 cash prizes. At one point, there was a special contribution to the prizes from none other than Buck Cook, who offered $5 Canadian to one lucky winner.
Video vignettes that were produced by Akwesasne TV, played as each winner accepted their award, which added a sentimental feel to the event. The videos conveyed a story about the trials and success that each business owner had endured, and also what their business offered.
Local artist Natasha Smoke-Santiago designed the unique cast turtle shell awards in a different color for each category. This artistic format will also be used for future ABEA awards as well.
ABEA was conceived by the Akwesasne Chamber of Commerce says Casey Swamp, Chamber Assistant Business Director, “I think the event went as smoothly as it could go for being a first event, and I think the committee did an awesome job on everything! Back in May we didn’t know what to expect from an event of this magnitude, but I think the whole thing went off well.â€
ABEA Committee members, all from local agencies, helped to make the event a success. Chris Thompson – St. Regis Mohawk Tribe Economic Development, Kylie Tarbell – MCA Economic Development, Beatrice Johnson – Area Management Board, and Coleen Nolan – Akwesasne Employment Resource Center.
The ceremony presented awards to businesses that were nominated and voted on by the community. The winners of those awards are as follows:
Business Recognition award – Truck Stop Number 9
Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Ann Mitchell, Dream Weaver Basketry
Businesswoman of the Year – Doreen Mitchell, Akwesasne Sports
Good Citizen Award – Casey Swamp, Swamps Performance
Entrepreneur of the Year – Carey Terrance, CAA Management
Arts and business award – Jordan Thompson, Mohawk art & Design
Community Choice – Lynn Thompson, Akwesasne Mini Mart
Customer Service award – Val Grey, Three Feathers Internet Café
Written BY: Ian Oakes
