On a few occasions, the annual MJBEX awards were compared to the Oscars on Wednesday night at the event due to its elegance, production value and excitement. 

Just like in past years the 18th annual awards ceremony did not disappoint as it brought together some of the best and brightest in the business community to celebrate their diverse accomplishments. 

With each passing year more awards are added to the list, and Wednesday night saw 15 pieces of artwork and trophies handed over to the successful nominees. 

The crowd was filled with laughter, brought to tears, and shared in each other's accomplishments during the annual event that gathers leaders in the community at the Heritage Inn in Moose Jaw. 

One of the businesses that took to the podium after hearing their name called was Mark Hansen of Ultimate Auto Detailing who took home the top spot in the Business Innovation category. Hansen took this opportunity to share a story and some wise advice to his fellow business owners and attendees. 

"Individual success is great, but when you share with your teammates and make them success you'll be successful. To everyone in the room when we share with each other, when we share with our neighbours and our neighbours become successful, and when our fellow business owners are successful, we all work together and you can see the momentum we're building right here right now," detailed Hansen. 

Also taking home more than just a full belly was the Oliv Tasting Room Moose Jaw, who finally won the Customer Service Category after being nominated for the past four years. 

"It has been wonderful to see this community grow in customer service. Like I said I think we've got it in Moose Jaw because just looking at the videos now tonight and putting it forward, that's quite a tough category. Well done guys, really well done to everybody because if it's customer service we have it," said Owner Charmaine Franken. 

Being known for their presence in the Notorious city and the service they have provided to their customers over years, Hub Meats Market was handed the Pillar of the Community Award. In a tearful and heartfelt thank you, Co-Owner Bryce Downey explained that their business has been around since 1904 and stayed in his family for the last 40 years. 

"With an award like this (thanks) to past owners and I guess it kind of puts a little bit of pressure on you because you've got to keep it going. Thank you guys, thank you, everybody," said Downey. 

Blown away by the support of the community, the Chamber of Commerce and the MJBEX awards, co-owners of Centaurus Construction Brodie Evans and Cody Dixon were almost left speechless after hearing their names called through the speakers to receive their award for Young Entrepreneurs. 

"I never thought we would ever be in a situation where we could potentially get an award, its cool it's kind of a reminder that maybe what we're doing is the right thing and it's working," said Dixon. Adding to that noting that they just go to work each day and do what they know best hoping to do precise and quality work for their clientele. "Hard work pays off, dedication, time, patience... it all pays off," said Evans.  

Getting the honour of receiving the brand new People's Choice award was Rosie's on River Street. Owner Chris Schubert said that it meant something special to him to be the first accepting it, but also to be getting the award that was chosen by the voters and the people in the community who continuously support his business. 

"It's awesome and like I said in my speech it's definitely a humbling an experience that people choose to come to Rosie's over any of the other places. You have a multitude of options when it comes to your entertainment dollars," Schubert noted.

Taking home not one, but two awards was Penna's Welding Ltd. who was honoured with the Job Creation and Business of the Year awards. Owner of the family business is Travis Penna, who accepted the award. Penna said they were shocked and humbled by being chosen twice and saying that he believes he and his family have built a long lasting business by treating their employees with respect and giving them an appreciation for a hard day's work, which was the advice he had to pass on to those who may be starting up their own operation.

"Focus on your employees and create a place that's good for them and in turn, the quality of work will be above average and I think that's what has led us to our success."

 

The full list of winners is as follows from the 2019 MJBEX awards:

Community Involvement: Dance Fitness by Kyra

Customer Service: Oliv Tasting Room Moose Jaw

Young Entrepreneur: Centaurus Construction

Business Innovation: Ultimate Auto Detailing

Marketing: Hawke Masonry Services

Newcomer Entrepreneur: Coral Ethnic Market

New Business: 4 Plants Indoor Gardening Supply 

Job Creation: Penna's Welding Ltd.

Pillar in the Community: Hub Meat Market

Impact: Church of God Born 2 Dance

#Trending: Bellany Harrison Animal Hospital

MJ & District Farm of the Year: McDougall Acres Ltd.

Business Leader of the Year: Mike Walz (In Memoriam)

Business of the Year: Penna's Welding Ltd.