JASON SETNYK
The Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2025 Business Excellence Awards Gala on Saturday, October 4 at the Ramada Inn, bringing together business owners, civic leaders, and volunteers for an elegant evening of celebration and recognition.
The highly anticipated event, presented with title sponsorship from Cogeco Ontario, honoured the achievements of local entrepreneurs and community champions across a range of sectors.
The cocktail reception buzzed with conversation and anticipation as guests arrived for the sold-out evening. A formal sit-down dinner was served, featuring Montreal Seared Chicken, Asian stir-fry, fresh salad, and a choice of warm apple blossom with brandy custard or a decadent chocolate truffle royale for dessert.
The night was filled with laughter, with emcee Simon McLinden, heartfelt speeches, and a strong sense of civic pride.
One of the evening’s most emotional moments came when Mike Turcotte was named Citizen of the Year. A widely respected community leader, Turcotte has quietly and consistently given his time and energy to Cornwall for decades. Beyond his career as a foot specialist, he has served on the Cornwall Community Hospital Board for more than ten years, including terms as chair and vice-chair. His dedication to local sports is equally impressive, with over 30 years of coaching and leadership in Cornwall Girls Softball and Girls Hockey. He currently serves as the chair of the Ghost Walk for Charity, an annual fundraising initiative that supports a wide array of local causes.
“To be honest, I was thinking a lot about my sister, who I just recently lost to cancer, because I know she was my biggest champion,” Turcotte said, reflecting on the moment his name was called. “Reading the nominations and support letters was really heartwarming. I’ve got a good circle of friends, a good family, and a strong support network.”
He spoke with humility about the importance of teamwork in every organization he’s been involved in. “It’s a massive group of volunteers who make these things happen. I’m just really grateful,” he said. “This is recognition for all of us.”
Emard Bros Lumber received the Lifetime Achievement Award as the family-run business celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2025. The company was founded by Joe and George Emard in 1925 on Hazel Street and has since grown into a trusted regional supplier of building materials with locations in Cornwall, Ingleside, and Morrisburg.
“They’d probably be saying, ‘Jesus, about time you guys came home with a little bit of hardware,'” joked co-owner Chris Emard, imagining how the founding generation might react. “There were 50 years before me of really hard work and developing relationships. We’ve just continued it.”
Emard attributed their success to consistently meeting customer needs, investing in staff, and embracing new opportunities. “With the fifth generation-Casey and Hannah-now actively involved, the business continues to evolve. As part of their centennial celebrations, Emard Bros launched the Strong Foundations Fund, donating $5,000 to support the construction program at St. Matthew’s Catholic Secondary School.
Dr. Peter Tropea received the President’s Award for his exceptional 46-year career in veterinary medicine. After taking over the St. Lawrence Valley Animal Hospital in 1984, he became known throughout the region for his surgical skill and dedication to animal care. He developed a strong reputation for orthopedic procedures, performing TPLO surgeries, complex fracture repairs, and other challenging operations that once required travel to distant specialists.
“I was really surprised, actually totally honoured,” said Tropea. “I’ve tried to provide compassionate, excellent quality care to all my patients. I try as hard as I can every time.”
Even in retirement, Tropea continues to assist with difficult surgeries. His legacy extends beyond the operating table-he has mentored many young veterinarians, fostering a collaborative and positive environment. “What would Peter do?” is a common refrain among those he trained.
Other award recipients included On a le choix, named New Business of the Year for its innovative French-language digital journalism that gives a voice to the Francophone community. The Akwesasne Powwow won the Tourism Excellence Award for its cultural impact and successful relocation to Lamoureux Park. Kayla Montpetit of Peace Machine Tattoo earned the Diversity & Inclusion Award for building an inclusive and charitable business, raising over $15,000 for local causes.
Robert Martin of Tight Lines Tackle was named Entrepreneur of the Year for successfully launching a niche retail business after two decades with Flowers Cornwall. Bud’s Records and Kool Things was named Small Business of the Year for transforming a local music store into a vibrant community hub under the ownership of Jason Lavoie and Emily.
Debbie Poirier Burns received the Community Impact Award for raising over $300,000 for local charities through the Annual Trunk Sale. Kelsey Lee of Love and Lee Apparel earned Young Professional of the Year for cultivating a downtown brand that empowers and connects local shoppers. The St. Lawrence River Institute received the Environmental Impact Award for its world-class scientific research and youth education. Cornwall McDonald’s won Large Business of the Year for its employee support programs and philanthropic contributions.
Chamber Board President Cristian Urroz thanked the event’s many sponsors, including Cogeco, ACC Futures, Ramada by Wyndham, Kawartha Credit Union, and Mini Mall Storage. He said to businesses in attendance, “you create jobs, foster innovation, and build the vibrant community we are all proud to call home,” he said.
The prestigious awards ceremony highlighted the people and businesses shaping Cornwall and area.
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