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The Township of Rideau Lakes Economic Development Committee is pleased to announce this year’s winners of the Business Recognition Awards. Thirty-one local businesses were nominated in recognition of their contributions to the community. Thank you to all of those who took the time to nominate these outstanding local businesses.
Congratulations to the 2024 Rideau Lakes Business Recognition Award Winners:
McMullan Appliance & Mattress was awarded the Rideau Lakes Business of the Year Award. Serving the region since 1990, McMullan Appliance and Mattress is family owned & operated. Swing by the showroom to see more than 100 display appliances and mattresses. McMullan offers delivery, installation, and disposal as part of their service to communities across Southeastern Ontario.
The recipient of the Small Business Award was Stoodley’s Kitchen and Beverage. Stoodley’s in Elgin has quickly become a community mainstay, specializing in delicious pizza with house-made dough and sauce, and everything from handmade burgers with fresh-cut fries to salads. At Stoodley’s, fresh local ingredients are always on the menu, and everything is prepared in house, daily. This eatery is also known for its friendly service and cozy spaces both inside, fireside or outside on the charming summer patio.
Clearly Auto Glass takes home the New Business Award in recognition of the convenient mobile service for auto glass needs such as windshield replacement, rear glass replacement, auto door glass, windshield repair and much more. Clearly Auto Glass is known for great customer service, coming to the customer at their convenience and working on any size vehicle – even transports, tractors and heavy equipment.
The Economic Development Committee also wishes to recognize all the deserving nominees for the awards.
Committee Chair, Councillor Marcia Maxwell remarked “Rideau Lakes is fortunate to have such a dedicated business community, willing to share their talents and expertise within our small villages. On behalf of the Township, we wish you continued success and thank you for your contributions to the community.”
Mayor Hoogenboom further noted, “Council greatly appreciates the outstanding work of business owners for their role in making the Rideau Lakes economy stronger. We are especially thankful for the support of the event’s corporate sponsors to help recognize the incredible people in our local business community.”
The Township of Rideau Lakes would like to extend special appreciation to the sponsors of this year’s program: G. Tackaberry & Sons Construction Ltd., KPMG MSLP, and RBC Royal Bank of Canada.
A dedicated Judges Panel reviewed 167 nominations this year – a big increase since introducing online nominations, which reflects the strong interest in celebrating our local business community. Judges include the former Mayor of Rideau Lakes, Ron Holman; Cindy James of the Small Business Advisory Centre; and Amber Coville of Valley Heartland Community Futures Development Corporation.
The Business Recognition Breakfast was held on April 16 at the Elgin Lions Community Hall. On behalf of M.P.P. Steve Clark, Michael Barrett presented congratulatory scrolls to the winners. Warden Corrina Smith-Gatcke and Economic Development staff representing the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville were in attendance.
The Economic Development Committee is proud to share that Rideau Lakes is home to 460 locally owned businesses and encourages residents and visitors to continue supporting local establishments.
