The Great Northern Chamber of Commerce recognized the achievements of its business community during the 3rd Annual Business Awards held at the Royal Canadian Legion, St. Anthony on March 21, 2025. These awards are presented annually during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting.
“Small businesses create jobs and drive economic development in our communities. We established the Business Awards as an opportunity to thank our business community for all their contributions and hard work. Recognizing and supporting our local businesses helps create and sustain thriving communities in rural Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Christopher Mitchelmore, President of Great Northern Chamber of Commerce.
The 3rd Annual Business Awards were sponsored by the CBDC Nortip, Scotiabank, Atlantic Edge Credit Union, Town of St. Anthony, Town of St. Lunaire-Griquet and PAL Airlines.
The 2025 winners are as follows:
- New Business of the Year Award – Rose’s Concrete and Construction Ltd., St. Anthony
- Outstanding Employee Award – Tyler Parrill of Shopper’s Choice Pharmacy, St. Anthony
- The Big Dreamer Award – The Dark Tickle Company, St. Lunaire-Griquet
- The Community Impact Award – St. Anthony Basin Resources Inc. (SABRI),
- Business Excellence Award – Breen’s Store Inc., Englee
- Chamber’s Choice Award – Maurice Simmonds of Maurice’s Service Centre, St. Anthony
New Business of the Year Award (Sponsor: Town of St. Anthony)
▪ New to the scene, this business knows what it takes to make it work.
▪ Has proven success in its relationship with community, customers, or clients.
▪ Building a solid foundation to succeed and sustain.
This business owner has a wealth of experience in the construction world. He was involved in the building of St. Anthony Cold Storage and was an employee for a number of years. Building on his knowledge of concrete work, Robin Rose established Rose’s Concrete and Construction Inc. and offers a wide variety of construction services including cement placement, finishing and landscaping. His work can be seen around town with sideways, signage place and numerous other projects. Robin continues to focus on growth and new ventures as he looks to operate his new business venture focused on the construction of sheds and other property development. Robin is a true professional, offers quality craftsmanship and showcases a high level of customer service. Robin Rose, please come forward and accept your award of New Business of the Year.
Mayor Brad Johannessen presents award to Robin Rose of Rose’s Concrete and Construction Ltd.
Outstanding Employee Award (Sponsor: Atlantic Edge Credit Union)
Presented to an individual, nominated by an employer or customer who may or may not be in a customer-facing position but:
- demonstrates company values and supports the company’s mission and other members of the team.
- continually strives to deliver quality work which will enhance the company’s success.
- is a positive company ambassador on and off the job.
The winner of Outstanding Employee has gone above and beyond the normal call of duty and plays a vital role in our community as one of the most accessible healthcare professionals. This healthcare professional dispenses medication and provides exceptional patient education and counseling. He serves an important role in public health by ensuring the safe and effective use of medications. He provides immunizations and screenings, as well as health and wellness advice. Tyler Parrill owner and employee of Shopper’s Choice Pharmacy is a trusted pharmacist that works in community and based on the nominations from customers, he is a valuable resource for health information and advice. Tyler gives back to the community and is a positive ambassador no only for the health care profession, but a positive ambassador for business and our region. He is certainly deserving of being named Outstanding Employee in 2025!
Susan Pearce and Samantha Humby of Atlantic Edge Credit Union presented the award. Christopher Mitchelmore, President accepted the award on behalf of Tyler Parrill.
The Big Dreamer Award (Sponsor: Town of St. Lunaire-Griquet)
- Whether it’s in technology, innovation, or commerce this business has a dream and it’s made a difference.
- From the coffee shop next door to innovations in industry. We want to hear about a business on the Great Northern Peninsula that started with a dream.
- Addressing challenges or doing something new this business sees the GNP as a place of opportunity.
A family of entrepreneurs that even with downturns in the fishery, they manage to see opportunity and engage in innovation. This family business has diversified from being a general shop to focusing on our natural assets – wild berries. The Dark Tickle Company of St. Lunaire-Griquet was founded by Steve and Gwendolyn Knudson as they focus on jams, jellies and other berry products. Their economusee and their focus on eco-tourism, culture and history established a company that truly has become a household name. With the inclusion of son, Keir and his wife Stacey Knudsen, the business has experienced significant shifts in e-commerce, berry chocolates, a sculpin cone and ice-cream, the Café Nymphe is a historical café with a no deep fry zone, to their expansion of Dark Tickle Expeditions to the recent expansion by purchasing Northland Discovery Boat Tours. This company with generations of entrepreneurs know what it takes to diversify and create unique products and experiences. We are so proud of the owners and all involved n this operation, that you are doing big things and continuing to dream big things into reality here on the Great Northern Peninsula.
Joy Collins, Councillor with Town of St. Lunaire-Griquet presents Steve, Gwendolyn and Stacey Knudsen with their award.
The Community Impact Award (Sponsor: CBDC Nortip)
- An employee or employer or organization that is making a difference in its community.
- Inspires community, drives change on the Great Northern Peninsula.
- Makes a difference, not just to the economy but the future of people living in the region.
This year’s award recipient delivers a big impact to community and its mandate is not just about the economy but also to focus on the future of the people in the region. For nearly 28 years this company has been a game changer for the St. Anthony Basin region. It started with ensuring the fish plant re-opened in 1999 to building a multi-million state of the art cold storage, to investing in tourism infrastructure and trails, supporting cellular towers in St. Lunaire-Griquet and Raleigh, to building 26 properties for retires. St. Anthony Basin Resources Inc. (SABRI)’s impact is felt in every corner of the communities on the GNP, with new initiatives in 2024 including SABRI Farms, SABRI Transit, St. Anthony Hop On Hop Off Bus Service, Sabri Suites (10 more rental properties), SABRI Innovation – a new social enterprise exchange. It has delivered more than $25 million in infrastructure, millions in community development and employed hundreds of employees. Through their strong partnerships, they exemplify how to be transformative at the community and regional level. We thank their staff and volunteer board members past and present for their valuable contribution that continues to make a tremendous difference. Sponsor CBDC Nortip: Anne Pilgrim, Vice-President and Margaret Caines, Client Services Officer presented Wayne Noel, SABRI Chair with the award.
Business Excellence Award (Sponsor: CBDC Nortip)
- Recognized for its dedication, and contribution to the economy.
- Leadership, in community and in the workplace.
- A good employer, who delivers an outstanding product or service.
- Encourages growth in its community and works with others to see economic growth.
This is an entrepreneur who has collaborated with others to see economic growth. Whether serving as a councillor or on a former economic development board, this business owner truly cares about serving his customer and his community. A business that started with humble beginnings, opted to take a risk and purchase a competitor when the business owners were retiring. Chris Breen, owner and operator of Breen’s Value Grocer moved into the former John Reeves Ltd. expanding significantly the amount of groceries, giftware and also being able to include hardware. This small business nestled around the wharf is a vital service to the residents. Chris and his employees know their customers, he offers Manager specials, was an early user of posting his store flyers electronically and engaging with the customer this way. When the bank closed in Roddickton, Chris went above and beyond by ensure he could help his customers and help a number of them access cash through this business. Chris continues to go above and beyond for those in the community and attracts a number of people from the region, which supports more economic activity on the Northern Peninsula East. Its with a regional focus a small business with a community oriented owner is this years winner of Business Excellence! Lynn Way, Executive Director and Maggie Chambers Secretary/Treasurer of CBDC Nortip presented Chris Breen his award.
6.Chamber’s Choice Award (presented to a business or employee) (Sponsor: Scotiabank)
- Delivers a high-quality product or service in St.Anthony and Area
- Builds momentum, encourages growth, while adapting to the GNP.
- Supports the Chamber of Commerce’s vision for growth and thriving communities.
This year’s Chamber Choice winner is no stranger to anyone in the room and he likely employed some of you over the years with the sheer number and diversity of businesses created. Maurice Simmonds is a serial entrepreneur, risk take and a builder. He started his business 50 years ago with a service station, he’s almost done it all, from vehicle repair, to heavy equipment service, selling cars, snowmobiles, snowclearing, fuel delivery to owning multiple gas stations to developing subdivisions to owning a flower/décor shop to food franchises and so much more.
Maurice Simmonds has employed hundreds of people in his lifetime, contributing to the growth and development of St. Anthony and Area. He has been an advocate and has a strong desire to see big things happen. He is a former President of our Chamber of Commerce, attends regularly our meetings, and is ever so willing to share his opinions and concerns. Maurice Simmonds is synonymous with business and a focus on growth for the Great Northern Peninsula. Maurice Simmonds has spent a lifetime building and is this year’s recipient of our Chamber’s Choice Award. Congratulations for 50 years in business. On behalf of the Chamber, we appreciate your significant contributions. Tara Troy of Scotiabank presents Maurice Simmonds his award.
Nominations Details!
The Great Northern Chamber of Commerce is excited to open the call for nominations for our 2025 Business Excellence Awards. Help us celebrate businesses on the Great Northern Peninsula. The hard-work, leadership, and success. We encourage everyone to tap into this opportunity to learn about businesses here at home, success stories and new opportunities.
The nomination process is simple – fill out the form below to nominate a business (remember this could also be an employee! And about businesses that are going above and beyond). ****The nominee must be a member of the Great Northern Chamber of Commerce. But nominations can be made by the public, excluding the Chamber’s Choice award.
DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS: Nominees open Monday, February 3, 2025 and close Friday, Feb 21, 2025
Award Categories
1.Business Excellence Award (Sponsor: CBDC Nortip)
- Recognized for its dedication, and contribution to the economy.
- Leadership, in community and in the workplace.
- A good employer, who delivers an outstanding product or service.
- Encourages growth in its community and works with others to see economic growth.
2.The Community Impact Award (Sponsor: CBDC Nortip)
- An employee or employer or organization that is making a difference in its community.
- Inspires community, drives change on the Great Northern Peninsula.
- Makes a difference, not just to the economy but the future of people living in the region.
3.New Business of the Year Award (in operation less than five years) (Sponsor: Town of St. Anthony)
- New to the scene, this business knows what it takes to make it work.
- Has proven success in its relationship with community, customers, or clients.
- Building a solid foundation to succeed and sustain.
4.The Big Dreamer Award (Sponsor: Town of St. Lunaire-Griquet)
- Whether it’s in technology, innovation, or commerce this business has a dream and it’s made a difference.
- From the coffee shop next door to innovations in industry. We want to hear about a business on the Great Northern Peninsula that started with a dream.
- Addressing challenges or doing something new this business sees the GNP as a place of opportunity.
5.Outstanding Employee Award (Sponsor: Atlantic Edge Credit Union)
Presented to an individual, nominated by an employer or customer who may or may not be in a customer-facing position but:
- demonstrates company values and supports the company’s mission and other members of the team.
- continually strives to deliver quality work which will enhance the company’s success.
- is a positive company ambassador on and off the job.
6.Chamber’s Choice Award (presented to a business or employee) (Sponsor: Scotiabank)
- Delivers a high-quality product or service in St.Anthony and Area
- Builds momentum, encourages growth, while adapting to the GNP.
- Supports the Chamber of Commerce’s vision for growth and thriving communities.
Also eligible – Clearwater Seafood and Kimberly Maiche for nomination.
The St. Anthony and Area Chamber of Commerce recognized the achievements of its business community during the 2nd Annual Business Awards held at the Royal Canadian Legion, St. Anthony on March 15, 2024. These awards are presented annually during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting.
“Small businesses create jobs and drive economic development in our communities. We established the Business Awards as an opportunity to thank our business community for all their contributions and hard work. Recognizing and supporting our local businesses helps create and sustain thriving communities in rural Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Christopher Mitchelmore, President of Great Northern Chamber of Commerce.
The 2nd Annual Business Awards were sponsored by the CBDC Nortip, Scotiabank, Atlantic Edge Credit Union, Town of St. Anthony, Town of St. Lunaire-Griquet, Tract Consulting and PAL Airlines.
The 2024 winners are as follows:
- The Big Dreamer Award – Lightkeeper’s Café and Great Viking Feast, St. Anthony
- The Community Impact Award – Barb Genge of Tuckamore Lodge, Main Brook
- Outstanding Employee Award – Gloria Lawless of St. Barbe Consumer’s Co-op Society Ltd., Flower’s Cove
- New Business of the Year Award – Rebel Coffee House, St. Anthony
- Business Excellence Award – Burden’s General Store/Castle Building Supplies, St. Lunaire-Griquet
- Chamber’s Choice Award – Paul Dunphy, formerly of Anthony Insurance, St. Anthony
The Big Dreamer Award (Sponsor: Town of St. Lunaire-Griquet)
▪ Whether it’s in technology, innovation, or commerce this business has a dream and it’s made a difference.
▪ From the coffee shop next door to innovations in industry. We want to hear about a business on the Great Northern Peninsula that started with a dream.
▪ Addressing challenges or doing something new this business sees the GNP as a place of opportunity.
The owner of this business uses the line, this is “What I know” as this entrepreneur purchased a business she was an employee for 20 plus years. Patsy-Sinyard Pittman, took over the Lightkeepers Café and Great Viking Feast and did so as a “Big Dreamer”. She sees so much opportunity and collaborations on the Great Northern Peninsula that can lead to her success, from her picnics in the park concept, to hosting pitch n’ pints, a book launch, conferences, catering and supporting other entrepreneurs in the community through partnerships, Patsy wants to be involved, work with others and see her Big Dream into a reality. She’s quite humble, but truly proud and her story is inspiring. Patsy Sinyard Pittman of the Lightkeeper’s Café is this year’s recipient of the 2024 Big Dreamer Award.
Thank you Wanda Hedderson, Deputy Mayor for presenting the award to Patsy Sinyard-Pittman of Lightkeeper’s Cafe and Great Viking Feast.
The Community Impact Award (Sponsor: CBDC Nortip)
▪ An employee or employer or organization that is making a difference in its community.
▪ Inspires community, drives change on the Great Northern Peninsula.
▪ Makes a difference, not just to the economy but the future of people living in the region.
Through her long-term entrepreneurial pursuits and community involvement this employer has driven change on the Great Northern Peninsula. From her involvement as an Economic Development Officer, leading the Viking Trail Tourism Association to attracting millions of dollars in capital investment with the Viking 1000 campaign, her involvement in Norstead Viking Village and Port of Trade at L’anse aux Meadows, giving back as a Mayor and Councillor to her award winning Tuckamore Lodge that is a world class destination operating since the 1980s. Barb Genge has employed and given back to the Great Northern Peninsula, she is an inspiration and has made a difference not only to the economy but for the future of people living in the region. Barb Genge of Tuckamore Lodge is truly deserving of our 2024 Community Impact Award.
Award presented by Anne Pilgrim, Vice-President and Lynn Decker Ellsworth, Director of CBDC Nortip to Barb Genge of Tuckamore Lodge.
Outstanding Employee Award (Sponsor: Atlantic Edge Credit Union)
Presented to an individual, nominated by an employer or customer who may or may not be in a customer-facing position but:
▪ demonstrates company values and supports the company’s mission and other members of the team.
▪ continually strives to deliver quality work which will enhance the company’s success.
▪ is a positive company ambassador on and off the job.
She is known for being extremely hard-working and helpful. She is a team player and supports the mission of the organization. Whether it is stocking shelves, cleaning, in the back rooms, or serving a customer this employee goes above and beyond to help those in the store. She’s known her friendly manners, smile, and willingness to serve. This long-time employee at St. Barbe Consumer’s Coop received multiple nominations from customers – Gloria Lawless of Flower’s Cove is the recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Employee Award.
Award Presented by: Beverly Patey, Manager of AECU St. Anthony to Gloria Lawless of St. Barbe Consumer Coop Society Ltd.
New Business of the Year Award (in operation less than five years) (Sponsor: Town of St. Anthony)
▪ New to the scene, this business knows what it takes to make it work.
▪ Has proven success in its relationship with community, customers, or clients.
▪ Building a solid foundation to succeed and sustain.
Started in 2019, this business is bringing a boutique style craft store, paired with fresh coffee and specialty drinks to residents in St. Anthony. They are supporting locals and have hosted numerous events to bring out residents from trivia to nacho nights. They uniquely created Lyv’s Landing this past season to appeal to youth and have given back to the BG Club. This business capitalizes on its social media expertise of insta and Facebook and the employees have been held at the highest standard for having such great relationships with customers and community. Colleen and son Michael Loder have built a business in which we want to see them continue to succeed and sustain. Our 2024 New Business of the Year Award is Rebel Coffee House.
Award Presented by: St. Anthony Mayor Brad Johannessen to Colleen Loder of Rebel Coffee House.
Business Excellence Award (Sponsor: CBDC Nortip)
▪ Recognized for its dedication, and contribution to the economy.
▪ Leadership, in community and in the workplace.
▪ A good employer, who delivers an outstanding product or service.
▪ Encourages growth in its community and works with others to see economic growth.
This family business got its start in 1959 as a grocery and general store. They have expanded into many other lines of business to include Castle Building Supplies, Ice Plant, Trucking and more. Graham Burden’s General Store is filled with the next generation of family members and friendly service as they go above and beyond to carry products, offer competitive pricing and meet the changing needs of consumer demand. They are a fixture in St. Lunaire-Griquet that deliver outstanding products and services, as well as give back to their community. Their investments have created significant employment and stimulated economic growth in the region. Our 2024 Business Excellence Award Recipient is Burden’s General Store.
Award presented by: Jack Rowe, Secretary/Treasurer and Margaret Caines, Client Services Officer at CBDC Nortip to George Burden of Burden’s General Store and Castle Building Supplies.
Chamber’s Choice Award (nominated by Chamber Executive and presented to a business or employee/individual) (Sponsor: Scotiabank)
▪ Delivers a high-quality product or service in St.Anthony and Area
▪ Builds momentum, encourages growth, while adapting to the GNP.
▪ Supports the Chamber of Commerce’s vision for growth and thriving communities.
The recipient of this year’s Chamber’s Choice award goes to an individual who has been a champion of the Chamber of Commerce for decades. He has served on the Executive and established a successful business in the community for decades. He is one of our regular luncheon attendees, has been a major driver in ensuring the Chamber was on solid footing and would continue well into the future. He’s been a great volunteer with our Visitor Information Centre ensuring that signs are put up and removed each season. Paul Dunphy, formerly of Anthony Insurance has truly encourage growth and has been one of our most ardent supports of the Chamber’s vision for growth and thriving communities. Even after retirement from his insurance business, Paul continues to support the Chamber and its vision. Paul Dunphy has received unanimous endorsement from the Executive to be our 2024 Chamber’s Choice Award recipient.
Award Presenter: Nolan Pelley, Scotiabank Branch Manager to Paul Dunphy of St. Anthony.
Great Northern Chamber of Commerce 