Tonight was the 13th Annual Awards Gala for the Quinte Business Achievement Awards at the National Airforce Museum of Canada in Trenton. I had a feeling of nostalgia… I won the Horizon Award for new business in 2005 at the same ceremony.

What an awesome venue, we were practically eating under the Halifax Bomber! Both Scout Design and Volunteer and Information Quinte were nominated for awards.

Yay Scout – we were nominated for business of the year, heavy competition… we lost, at least the food was good and we had some good company at our table, the Satisfied Soul and Road Rats. We were in good County company as well for the awards, in the room were other County friends including Buddha Dog, Batawa Ski Hill, Merrill Inn, Bluemen Bistro and Milford Bistro. Milford Bistro won for Tourism and Hospitality – great job!

As the evening progressed the not-for-profit award for the area came up and VIQ won!

I have have seem this organization overcome incredible odds in the last few years and done wonderful things. It is so rewarding to see them recognized for their efforts in the community. In the five years I have sat on their board and ultimately as chair, I have seen them grow from a grassroots relatively unknown organization to a house hold name in Quinte. I am so proud of their win – I could hardly let go of the trophy. But in the humble fashion of the last 2 posts, it’s really not about me but about the hundreds of volunteers and what they do to make a difference that won this award.

Congratulations to all of the volunteers in Prince Edward County, Belleville, Trenton, Tweed, Batawa, Sterling and beyond. You just proved that volunteerism is needed and more than, that the community recognizes your efforts. Good show Quinte.