Mayor Brent Feyter presented the Community Enhancement Award on behalf of sponsor Town of Fort Macleod to Darlene Hofer and Joan Van Waardhuizen of Fort Macleod Library.
Fort Macleod Chamber of Commerce honoured some of the community’s best and brightest on feb. 26.
The Chamber held its annual awards gala at the Fort Macleod and District Community Hall, presenting Niesje Vanden Dool with the Citizen of the Year Award.
Also honoured were Nevayah Fox, Bob Gunn, Cecilie Fleming, Scougall Motors, MA Catering Company Ltd., Fort Macleod Library, Hilltop Dairy, The Penalty Box, Wildcraft Kids, Marian Beusekom and Curbside Salon.
“We received so many outstanding nominations this year, and every nominee deserves recognition,” said Shayla Farough, a Chamber director who was master of ceremonies.
Junior Citizen
Nevayah Fox, a student-athlete at F.P. Walshe school, was named Junior Citizen of the Year.
The nomination explained Nevayah is involved in many activities and is ready to step up when needed.
“She volunteers her time willingly and consistently, showing a genuine desire to support others and make a difference,” the nomination read.
Nevayah was praised for her strong leadership and for setting a positive example for her peers, carrying herself with kindness and enthusiasm.
“She is a truly positive young women who represents the very best of our community’s youth,” Farough said.
Also nominated were Miles Poytress, Avery Rippin and Tessa Van Hierden.
Senior Citizen
New this year to the awards program was Senior Citizen of the Year, which went to Bob Gunn.
The award recognizes a Fort Macleod resident aged 65 years or over who continues to make a meaningful impact in the community.
The award recognizes leadership, volunteerism, mentorship and community spirit.
“This recipient exemplifies dedication, generosity and a life-long commitment to strengthening Fort Macleod and district through their time, talents and experiences.
Gunn was nominated for more than 20 years of volunteer work in Fort Macleod, with the Legion board of directors, the economic development committee, and Fort Museum.
Gunn, noted for always being ready to lend a hand at events and fund-raisers, recently retired from Pioneer Lodge where his commitment and service were appreciated by residents.
Other Senior Citizen of the Year nominees were Don McLean and Dan Burger.
Large Business
One of Fort Macleod’s oldest businesses received the Large Business Award.
Scougall Motors was honoured with the award, which recognizes an outstanding large business of 10 or more employees that consistently exceeds customer expectations and makes a meaningful impact on the local business community.
“In the words of those who nominated them, Scougall motors is more than a business,” Farough said. “They are a pillar of Fort Macleod.”
Farough said nominators highlighted the company’s 100-year legacy and longstanding commitment to supporting local initiatives, organizations and community ideas.
“Many were especially moved by the generosity shown during their centennial year,” Farough said.
“They were described as a true asset for our little town, a business that continues to invest in Fort Macleod, not just economically, but wholeheartedly.”
Other nominees were Hurlburt Rock Products and Westco Construction.
Agricultural Business
Hilltop Dairy was named 2025 recipient of the Agricultural Business Award, which is presented to an agricultural business that exemplifies stewardship of local natural resources and advances positive innovative change in agricultural practices and expertise throughout the district.
Hilltop Dairy was nominated for its understanding and deep respect for sustainability and for being good stewards of the land and animals.
“They aren’t afraid to seek additional knowledge and to ask for help when needed, and they remain open minded about modernizing their business practices,” Farough said. “Their thoughtful, forward thinking approach to agriculture truly reflects the value of our community.”
Also nominated were Vandervalk Farms and Larson Custom Feeders.
Community Enhancement
The Community Enhancement Award presented to a non-profit group or organization that is making a meaningful difference to the community through leadership, social responsibility and a strong commitment to community investment went to the Town of Fort Macleod Library.
“In the words of those who nominated them, the Town of Fort Macleod Library is much more than a place to borrow books,” Farough said. “It’s a welcoming hub at the heart of our community.”
The library was praised for its friendly and helpful staff who create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The nominators highlighted the library’s many programs that serve to bring people together, encourage life-long learning and strengthen community connection.
The other nominees were the Empress Theatre Society and Fort Macleod Elks Club.
New Business
The Penalty Box received the New Business Award, which is presented to a business that is less than two years old and which has shown early success, innovation and made a positive contribution to the business community.
“The Penalty Box is a true hidden gem in Fort Macleod,” Farough read from the nomination.
The business located in the arena was praised for its authentic Mexican food, and the “love and commitment” the staff pours into the business.
“Many believe The Penalty Box is just getting started and are proud to see them growing right here in Fort Macleod,” Farough said.
Other nominees were Newton Neuropsychology and Taran Van Hierden and the Real Estate Centre.
Young Entrepreneur
A team of brothers were the inaugural recipients of the new Young Entrepreneur Award.
Logan and Caleb Vanden Broek of Wildcraft Kids received the award, which recognizes an ambitious and innovative young business leader in Fort Macleod.
The award recognizes vision, initiative and strong business leadership, along with positive contributions to the business community.
Caleb, 12, and Logan, nine, turned their hobby of creating handcrafted leather goods and wood-burned pieces into a business.
“Wildcraft Kids is an inspiring young business led by two creative and hard-working brothers whose talents in wood-burning and leather-work shines through every piece,” Farough said of the nomination.
Employee Service
Marian Beusekom was the 2025 choice for the Employee Service Award, which recognizes an outstanding individual, team or employee who consistently delivers exceptional customer service.
“Marian Beusekom of Scougall Motors is the welcoming face that greets you the moment you walk through the door, known for her warmth, professionalism and genuine willingness to help,” Farough said.
“Marion consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every customer feels acknowledged and supported,” Farough added. “Whether answering questions, guiding visitors to the right department, or simply offering a friendly smile, she plays an essential role in creating a positive and welcoming experience for everyone who enters the building.”
Also nominated were Mary Braconnier of MA Catering Co. Ltd. and Petula Dyck of Fort Macleod Agencies.
Home-Based Business
Jackie Nelson and Curbside Salon received the 2025 Home-Based Business Award, which recognizes a home-based business operating from a residence that has demonstrated sustained success and makes a positive contribution to the community.
Jackie Nelson and Curbside Salon were cited as a true reflection of community pride and dedication to Fort Macleod.
Nelson was praised for her talent as a stylist and commitment to educating clients about proper hair care and individual needs.
The nominators also cited Nelson for her volunteer work with the Empress Theatre Society and other activities.
“Jackie is an inspiring, hard-working business owner and community member who leads by both example in her salon and in her everyday life,” Farough said.
Also nominated were Nomi Faulkner Yoga and Paige Knauf and Paige’s Web Pages.
Small Business
MA Catering Co. Ltd. was the Chamber’s choice as 2025 Small Business Award recipient.
The award goes to an exceptional small business with 10 or fewer employees that demonstrates a strong commitment to customer excellence and contributes positively to the vitality of the business community.
“MA Catering Company is a small business that makes a big impact in Fort Macleod,” Farough said. “Nominators highlighted their pride in being one of the largest employers of young women in our community, fostering confidence, growth and opportunity.”
“They were praised for championing collaboration, supporting local initiatives and charities, and demonstrating a strong belief in lifting others up while building a successful business.”
