Local entrepreneurs honoured during business week gala

Two Sackville business owners were honoured last week for their entrepreneurial spirit and success.

Several awards were presented at a gala evening held on Thursday evening, sponsored by Enterprise South East and Westmorland Albert CBDC, and held at the Memramcook Resort and Learning Centre.

The Greater Sackville Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Award for 2007 was presented to Colleen Allen, owner of the Mane Attraction beauty salon. The award was presented by chamber president Lisa Smith.

Allen was honoured for her entrepreneurial spirit, having been in business for the past 28 years in downtown Sackville. In her introduction, Smith noted that the Mane Attraction has always been a place that serves it customers both professionally and successfully.

Colleen takes prides in her business. Her shop is always attractively decorated; she takes pride in the appearance of her business and is an asset to the town of Sackville, Smith said.

In addition to providing top quality, friendly service, Allen is a supporter of many charities and local community events, she said

Drew Fraser, president of Can-Tech Construction, Sackville Carwash Inc. and Can-Tech Construction-Rentals received the Raymond LeBlanc Excellence award as entrepreneur of the year for 2007.

In business since 1986, Frasers Can-Tech Construction designs and builds homes in the area and has also completed high-end renovations. He was also recently honoured by the Greater Moncton Home Builders Association for his excellent work.

In his brief acceptance speech, Fraser attributed his success to his team of workers.

No person has the talent to do it alone, this is about networking and teamwork. Its every members effort that make our projects happen and why Im standing here tonight. The light that shines on me tonight shines on my whole team and I say thank you on their behalf, he said.

The Southeast New Brunswick award for Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2007 was given to Conrad LeBlanc of Techiche-BMR hardware outlet in Cap Pelé, who has been its co-owner and manager since 2005.

A special Excellence Award for Community Leadership and Economic Development tribute was given to former Senator Joseph P. Landry, owner of Cape Bald Packers and Downeast Plastics in Cap Pelé. He was honoured for his leadership, economic contribution and commitment to his community over the past 60 years.

Guest speaker for the gala was Victor Boudreau, N.B. Minister of Finance.

The entrepreneurial spirit is a way of life and a way of looking at life. When we think of entrepreneursall of these people create something of great value, Boudreau noted.