The Ridge Meadows Chamber of Commerce recognized some of the best from the commercial community with its 2025 Business Excellence Awards on Saturday night, March 8.
The winner of the prestigious Business Leader of the Year was Lindsay Kok of Amsterdam Garden Centre.
"She has proven to be an amazing leader in the City of Pitt Meadows," said Chamber CEO Kristi Maier, noting Kok treats her staff well, runs a great business, and supports her community.
"She's a real leader."
Lindsay is no relation to Jerry Kok, who is the chamber president.
Ernie Daykin also got huge ovations, as the former mayor and 2024 BC Summer Games vice-president, took the podium as winner of the Ridge Meadows Community Spirit Award.
"Ernie is the epitome of a community champion," said Maier.
Daykin gave thanks to his wife Judy.
"Behind every successful man is a proud, supportive wife, and a surprised mother-in-law," he quipped.
The former mayor and business leader in Maple Ridge tried to rally the business community.
"Buy local or bye local," he said. "More than ever, we need to buy local, and we need to support each other in whatever way we can."
There were several references to the uncertain economy, and the looming tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump. In fact, given the current state of relations between Canada and the U.S., the head of the chamber board Jerry Kok got some laughs as he changed his title to prime minister of the chamber, saying he no longer wanted to be called president.
Kok gave props to Maier and the rest of the Chamber staff for organizing the biggest event on the Chamber calendar.
"I walked in and once again wow... look at this place... it is awesome," he said.
The gala was held at a sold-out Sky Helicopters, that was decorated to an Alice in Wonderland theme.
"I notice some of you really leaned into the theme... Mayor Ruimy," said Maier, highlighting the mayor's Mad Hatter costume that won him a best costume award.
The banquet was catered by Humble Roots Cafe and Deli, and a long dessert table of wonderland-themed treats was presented by the Vanilla Bean Bake Shop.
"We worked hard to create an experience for everyone," said Maier. "We want people to come to the event, even if they're not nominated, because they know it will be a fun time."
Other award winners include:
Home-Based Business of the Year: Maple Washing Inc.
Micro Business of the Year: K&K Custom Creations
Small Business of the Year: Vanilla Bean Bake Shop
Medium Business of the Year: Dewdney Animal Hospital
Large Business of the Year: Johnston Meier Insurance
New Business of the Year: The Patch Brewery
Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Kaylesha Penner, Markayting
Non-Profit of the Year: Ridge Meadows Hospice Society
Ridge Meadows Community Spirit Award: Ernie Daykin
Business Leader of the Year: Lindsay Kok, Amsterdam Garden Centre
Environmental Leadership Award: Molecular Tech Coatings
The Chamber's next big event is the third annual Celebrating Women in Business, on June 12, featuring an empowerment seminar with author Michelle Cederberg. For information see ridgemeadowschamber.com
