Business community members were decked out in their finery on Friday, April 25 for the Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce Mark of Excellence Awards. Awards were handed out in numerous categories to local businesses that met challenges and excelled in certain criteria.
Along with the awards came the induction of this year's Business Hall of Famers.
A 16-year-old Bill Brecht began his career with Modern Meat, eventually becoming a co-owner in 1978. A devotee of St. Augustine Church and active member of the Knights of Columbus, Kinsmen, Lions and Jaycees. Always generous with his time when it came to community endeavours, Bill was well remembered as an animated and judicious umpire in ball season and was a beloved figure in both business and in the community.
Judy Plag is remembered not only for her long-term commitment to the Bella Vista Inn, but also her caring and generous presence in the community. She served as a bookkeeper for various non-profit organizations. Under her stewardship, the Bella Vista Inn was known throughout the region as a beacon of hospitality to all. Judy and her team worked tirelessly to ensure that each catering event went smoothly with the same high standard of prepared meals and unwavering commitment to her clients and guests. Judy passed away last year, but her spirit continues to uplift the community.
Capping off the evening’s inductions was Henry Hauber, who established CIM Industries, an important regional employer and industrial steel manufacturer. Henry and Yvette Hauber farmed in the Cudworth area until 2005. His entrepreneurial career started with Hauber Paint and Glass and later the introduction of Cudworth Prairie Lumber. Always the savvy businessman, Henry’s search for other opportunities led him to open Commercial Industrial Manufacturing along with partner Mark Seidle. Other businesses spun off from the venture, like Coil Tech. Always gracious and humble, Henry took to the mic, expressing his gratitude for the communities who embraced him and his ventures.
The evening continued with awards presented to local businesses for their efforts.
Community Involvement Award – Olymel
Young Entrepreneur Award – Twins Treats
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion – Moon Rose Holistic
Entrepreneur Award – Gas Can Cafe
Growth and Expansion – Kirsch Construction
Marketing Award – Danish Oven
Service Excellence – Humboldt Pharmasave
Youth Involvement – Tremblay
Non-profit Impact – Futuristic Industries
Innovation Award – PAMI
New Venture Award – Rise Up Foot Care
Community Merit Award – Humboldt Soup Kitchen
Business of the Year – Hergott Farm Equipment Ltd.
Stay tuned for our upcoming article on keynote speaker Eddie Lemoine at the Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce Mark of Excellence Awards for 2025.