This time around, Goulbourne admitted his brief address was more timely than ever.

That's because the city is still reeling from the announcement that John Deere is closing its Welland plant, eliminating 800 decent-paying jobs, and from news mere days later that Henniges Automotive -- formerly known as GDX and GenCorp -- was also eliminating 235 jobs.

"It was one of the most difficult days this city has probably seen," said Goulbourne.

That, he said, highlights the vital importance small business ventures started by local people play in keeping the city's economy going.

The chamber awards have a new name this year, because the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences threatened legal action because of the use of the venerable Oscar name and statuette in the chamber's old Oscars, Eh?! awards gala.

Mel Groom, a member of the awards committee, said the new name -- the Ruby Awards -- is in honour of Ruby Emily Quaker, who in the 1800s had a successful farm with her husband on Quaker Road. Quaker established a general store and was instrumental in the creating of the local board of trade -- the forerunner of today's chamber.

Groom said Quaker epitomized what chamber members strive for: she was successful, customer-focused and not afraid of a challenge. She was the only woman on the board of trade and wasn't afraid to lock horns with her male counterparts, said Groom.

This year's awards gala, which regularly sells out, will take place at Lookout Point Country Club in Pelham on Friday, Oct. 17. Tickets are $40 for the evening, which includes a wine and cheese reception, the awards, the post parties and cab ride home. A party pass is available for $10 and includes food, a drink and cab ride home. Tickets are available online at www.rubyawards.ca or by calling 905-732-7515.

Nominees this year are: