Taber’s best and brightest were honoured Friday night at the Taber and District Chamber of Commerce’s annual banquet.
Three business awards were handed out, and Rod Yokoyama was recognized as the 2011 Citizen of the Year. Chamber president Bruce Warkentin, said Yokoyama was more than deserving.
“This is given to an individual who has made Taber and area a better place to live,” he said. “Rod Yokoyama has been a vibrant member of our community for many years, and he’s impacted many organizations in Taber. If there’s an event in Taber, you’re sure to see Rod there volunteering.”
But as obvious a selection Yokoyama was for many, the man himself said he was definitely surprised to learn about his award.
“When I received that phone call from Bruce, I wasn’t expecting it at all,” said Yokoyama, who added the response from the community since the announcement has been overwhelming. “I’ve had so many people come and congratulate me and thank me for what I’ve done.”
Yokoyama exclaimed he was proud to share the stage with such worthy businesses as the three honoured Friday night, as he added Taber has a great business community and great people in general, who come together during times of need.
“I love Taber. It’s been a great community for my family.”
Honoured in part for his contributions to local youth, Yokoyama added he loves working with young people, and mentioned that is how Taber will grow in the future — through our youth. Yokoyama’s involvement with youth over the years has centred around events like the Easter egg hunt, the APEX Youth Awards and many church activities and KidSport.
“I think it’s really important we do these things, and make those things a success,” he said of local activities for youth.
Yokoyama also gave credit to many other in town who he often works alongside.
“I volunteer with a lot of great people, and they’ve been friends ever since. Connecting and getting to know people makes a difference in this community.”
And whether it is volunteer work with local youth, contributions to the foodbank or time spent on Cornfest, Yokoyama’s efforts can all be traced back to one source, he said — his family, as he spoke of the example his father set for him.
“My dad was a Kiwanian,” said Yokoyama, as he recalled touring around with his father selling apples for the club. “I think that’s what makes a difference — people giving back all the time.”
And with that, Yokoyama gave one last inspiring message to the audience.
“This community is awesome, and I just want to challenge everyone. There are a lot of organizations out there and there are a lot of volunteer opportunities.”
Speaking of volunteer opportunities, Warkentin also praised the work of Communities in Bloom, 2011’s winner of the Spirit of Taber Award.
“They have taken the responsibility to make sure our community looks attractive,” he said in his speech, as he talked about the Japanese garden and the Christmas light displays as just a couple examples. “The committee spends countless hours doing this hard work.”
Jean Holmen accepted the award on behalf of the committee, and praised the work of the many who make up Communities in Bloom.
“Our members have a habit of doing for others,” said Holmen, as she also gave credit to local businesses and citizens who donate to many Communities in Bloom projects. “We have been the recipient of many goods and services, and we extend out heartfelt gratitude to everyone who is at our beck and call.”
Warkentin, in his introduction of Bob Bullock and his Pharmasave team, who won the Customer Service Award, read a excerpt from the nomination letter, which credited Pharmasave for its 20 years of service.
“Each and every time I feel like I’m being waited on by friends,” said Warkentin.
As Bullock accepted the award, he too mentioned the surprise he felt when word first came of the honour.
“I was a little overwhelmed when I first heard,” he said, as he gave all the praise to his staff. “The only credit I can take is I hired them all, except for one.”
Bullock was appreciative of all the well wishes extended to Pharmasave since the award was announced.
“It’s been a fun last month. I’ve just been overwhelmed by the response we’ve had from a number of people.”
Last but not least, Warkentin handed out the Small Business of the Year Award to Gouw Quality Onions, as he lauded the company as an example of how economic development can take place in Taber and district.
“Gouw Quality Onions has been part of our community for 25 years. It is a true local success story.”
Warkentin also mentioned the company’s community contributions, donations to many causes and its environmental farm practices as examples of why the business was deserving of the award.
“Taber and area is a better place because of Gouw Quality Onions.”
Kyle Gouw spoke on behalf of the family business, and looked back on the humble beginnings for the onion business in Taber.
“It was back in 1982 when our dad decided to grow onions on his own with the help and support of his wife,” said Gouw who added many from the community stepped up to help Casey Gouw Sr. in his venture.
After picking up some of the knowledge from their father, Kyle and Casey Gouw Jr. took over the operation, which has nw spanned two-and-a-half decades.
“We recognized the business opportunity that was there are here we are 25 years later being recognized by the community,” said Gouw, who added the company is always happy to help out where it can in Taber. “It seems natural to help our community, as they were they to help us out when we first started.”
All four award winners were honoured not only by the chamber, but also with a special certificate from Medicine Hat MP LaVar Payne, who spoke to help open the evening’s festivities.
“I’m a small believer in small business — after all, I operated a small business myself,” said Payne, who added running a small business takes dedication and hard work. “We’re celebrating businesses that are proven to be leaders.”
He concluded by saying while agriculture is the driver of the local economy, there is potential for other levels of commerce to develop here.
“Taber and surrounding areas are open for business.”