October 22nd, 2007

Small Business Month and Langley Business Awards

MLA Statements

M. Polak: October is Small Business Month, and in B.C. there's an awful lot to celebrate about small business in this province.

           In Langley we're celebrating business excellence. This past Saturday night I was privileged to attend the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards. Hosted by Gloria Macarenko, members from Langley city and the township of Langley gathered to honour the best and brightest of small business in our community.

           Congratulations are in order for Sarah Vandekerkhove of Feminine Form, who was the winner of the New Entrepreneur Award; Langley Toyotatown, winner of the Customer Service Award; Harbour Air seaplanes, winner of the Small Business of the Year Award; Super 8 Hotel Langley, winner of the Medium Business of the Year Award; and Otter Co-op, winner of the Large Business of the Year Award.

           But the Greater Langley Chamber recognizes that business excellence is not just evident in the financial success of an enterprise. True success includes dedication to the community and a dedication to outstanding business excellence. The George Preston Memorial Businessperson of the Year Award recognizes an individual who has displayed these exceptional qualities. This year Brian Bury of Brian Bury Photography was recognized for a seemingly endless list of contributions and innovative programs that benefit our community.

           I ask the House to join me in recognizing these outstanding Langley businesses and indeed all small business owners as we celebrate Small Business Month in B.C. and remember that in B.C., small business is big business.