Front of Yonge Announces 2026 Business Awards Winners

Mallorytown – The Economic Development Committee of the Township of Front of Yonge is pleased to announce this year’s winners of the Business Recognition Awards. Award nominees and winners were honoured at a breakfast held Friday morning at the Mallorytown Legion.

The award for Business of the Year went to Flowers Buds Professional Gardeners, owner Alison Whitlock. Spicy Riffs Hot Sauce, owner Mike Piovesan, received the New Business of the Year Award.

Flower Buds is celebrating its 30th year of providing exceptional landscaping and gardening services. Alison Whitlock has built Flower Buds with a genuine passion for helping people create beautiful outdoor spaces. Alison has a strong belief in giving back to community, most notably as a tireless volunteer for Yonge in Bloom, and by showcasing her garden as part of the 1000 Islands, Rideau Canal Garden Tour. Alison is an accomplished artist who donates many hours in support of the arts community.

Founded in 2023 New Business of the Year, Spicy Riffs Hot Sauce, is a small batch, craft hot sauce company started and built in Front of Yonge by owner Mike Piovesan. Mike makes his sauces one batch at a time using real ingredients. Spicy Riffs has built a loyal following at farmers markets and festivals, sees a growing retail presence in area stores and continues to expand its e-commerce market; all a testament to Mike’s entrepreneurship as he looks to expansion.

Both winners received stunning clay tile installations crafted by local artist and resident Diana Earle, as well as certificates from MPP Steve Clark and MP Michael Barrett.

Dr. Alan Redekopp was recognized for his dedication to the Mallorytown Clinic with service medals from MP Michael Barrett and MPP Steve Clark; and a certificate from Mayor Roger Haley.

Guest speaker Jackson Wyatt, CEO and founder of CABN shared his approach to home building and what it means for the future of housing in terms of affordability and sustainability.

Other Business of the Year nominees included: Artfully Recycled, deTails Dog Grooming, Drawbridge Family Hair Design, Mallorytown Pharmacy, McQuaid Honey Farm, Skyward Active Health Centre and VB Bookkeeping.

Other nominees for New Business of the Year included: A Thousand Ways, Arbru Solar Brewery, Blackwood Guitar Co., Grand Metal Inc., Meowtown, Spanright Truss Inc., Tidy Trees, Tire Changers and Trio Kuntry Services.

Mayor Roger Haley thanked the Planning Committee (Mike Purcell, Elaine Covey and Councillor Margaret Fancy) and congratulated all the nominees and winners. He also expressed appreciation to the many businesses that donated to the event.