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By Sheila Phibbs
The Haldimand Press
CALEDONIA—The Caledonia Regional Chamber of Commerce 2022 Business Awards dinner was held at the Caledonia Lions Hall on March 29, 2023. An impressive 107 nominations were made for 2022 with some businesses being nominated for multiple awards.
The winning businesses for 2022 are: Haldimand Insurance Brokers Ltd. – Business of the Year (sponsored by Grand River Wealth Management) and Best Place to Work (sponsored by Caledonia CIBC); Community Support Centre Haldimand-Norfolk – Outstanding Organization (sponsored by HDI Electrical); Oranje Son Brewing – Best New Business (sponsored by Caledonia Scotiabank); Wish Upon a Dream Slumber Party Rentals – Best Non-Brick-and-Mortar (sponsored by Haldimand Insurance Brokers Ltd.); Grand River Dinner Cruises – Carol Ritchie Scotch Thistle, Tourism (sponsored by the Caledonia Chamber of Commerce).
A highlight was the presentation of two Young Leader awards, sponsored by Wally Parr Sausages.
Sixteen-year-old Olivia Dinyer, an honour student at McKinnon Park Secondary School, began volunteering at Inclusions Developmental Services last year, where she worked with differently abled individuals in the day respite program.
Olivia showed a natural ability, hard work ethic, and willingness to learn that led to a job with the program. She is recognized for her compassion, commitment, and leadership in the community, school, sports, the workplace, and various volunteer activities such as movie night and the Santa Claus Parade.
Harper Hyslop proved success as a fundraiser for the community at just five years of age. Her efforts began when her kindergarten teacher explained what it means to donate to the food bank, which led to a conversation on giving back and helping others at home with her parents. Harper was inspired to sell items on buy and sell websites and collect empty bottles from family and friends to raise money for the Caledonia Food Bank.
Harper’s desire to give back continued, including raising money to support the Haldimand Library summer programming, the Lights Along the Grand (following vandalism in 2021), and the Caledonia Legion. Harper has also been able to purchase art supplies for Inclusions Developmental Services. Following the tragic death of OPP Constable Grzegorz Pierzchala, Harper created and collected artwork to give to Haldimand OPP members to show appreciation and support.
The newly re-named Barb Martindale Citizen of the Year award, sponsored by Desjardins Insurance, was presented by Desjardin Agent Suzanne Athanasiou. She describes Barb Martindale as “a pillar of our community…. She had a clear understanding of our business community and the Chamber’s role in it. Barb never wanted recognition. She only wanted to do what is right for Caledonia.”
Athanasiou announced Craig Peters as the Barb Martindale Citizen of the Year for his exemplary volunteerism. Peters can often be seen working for the community, from watering plants in town to collecting bottles to donate to a cause. He is present at events such as Santa visits and is very involved in the Santa Claus parade. Peters is also an active member of the Caledonia Lions Club.
Athanasiou says, “Craig demonstrates what it means to give your heart and soul to your community…. He is always the first person to offer a helping hand if someone needs it and he is an amazing role model…. No matter what, he always has a positive attitude and does the best he can to make Caledonia enjoyable for everyone else too!”
In accepting the award, Peters acknowledged many businesses and individuals for their contributions to the community. He even thanked Santa saying, “He has given me the opportunity to meet so many people in this town.” He adds, “I love this town so let’s all work together and make sure it’s a better place.”
At the conclusion of the program, master of ceremonies Warren Burger congratulated all the winners and nominees. He observed, “Caledonia has a spirit of taking care of one another and the community…. There’s a new hope as you look at the turnout tonight and the number of new businesses since 2019.”
