Annual Grande Prairie DownTown Association award winners

Feb 27, 2025 | 6:00 AM

The DownTown Association handed out its two annual awards during a ceremony yesterday. (Wednesday, February 26)

This year Sam Sushi was recognized with the Art Oullette Award, as according to the Downtown Association, they “created an inviting and vibrant atmosphere that brilliantly showcases the unique character of our City Centre.”

Photo Courtesy DownTown Association

For the Downtowner of the Year; PARK Property was celebrated for its work filling “the gap left by the Park Hotel, removing the asbestos-laden Professional Building at Nordic Court, upgrading vital systems,” and ensuring parking for local businesses remained available for residents.

Photo Courtesy DownTown Association

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According to the DownTown Association, both businesses demonstrated traits of the award’s namesake and past winners; Sam Sushi exemplified “meticulous attention to detail, great product, and exemplary customer service.” Which was something Mr. Oullette was known for when running Curry’s Jewelers.

PARK Property, much like local business leaders Al Side, Pat Garrett, and Jim Wald did in 1980 for 214 Place; Was selected for reimaging spaces to “ensure a bright future” for City Centre.

Both of these awards have been handed out annually since the 2000s, as the Art Ouellette Memorial Award has been given out since 1997, and the Downtowner of the Year since 1984.

by Tanner Smith