“The sky is blue and the grass is green.”

The phrase was among a handful of memorized words Erika Neher would bring to Canada from Germany at age 11.

She would use it whenever possible, regardless of whether it fit the circumstances.

Then, she met a memorable teacher who would guide the newly landed immigrant through the intricacies of the English language, aided by books featuring a pair of fictional children named Dick and Jane.

Neher, who was named the Nelle Carter Woman of the Year on Wednesday evening, recalled with fondness her teacher’s long-lasting impact on a career path that recognized early on the vital importance of communication.  

“He convinced me into knowing that English and grammar were the most important thing to have, of the power of the word,” she said. “He also influenced me in giving back all the way down the line, whenever I could.”

Neher’s career would include a lengthy stint in the newspaper business, after which she would self-publish a newsletter serving residents of her area.

A councillor with Ramara Township, she was instrumental in bringing together businesses to create the Ramara Chamber of Commerce.

She remains a tireless volunteer.

The Nelle Carter award is presented annually by the Orillia Business Women’s Association, and acknowledges individuals respected for their outstanding work in the community and workplace.

Fellow nominees Judith Rapson, Debbie Sammit, Eleanor Shaw, and Mary Silverthorn were named as women of distinction.

“It is really exhilarating to be among these honoured women,” Neher said of the win. “It is just marvelous.”

The local business association also presented the Lisa Brooking Young Woman of the Year Award to Aren Marshall, a student at Orillia District Collegiate and Vocational Institute.

Marshall has scored a 90-per-cent average every year and claimed prizes for her skills in mathematics and accounting.

As president of the school’s music council, she oversaw planning for a Santa Claus parade float, fundraised, and organized an annual evening of the arts.

She intends to study medical science at the University of Western Ontario.

Farrah Amikons, of Park Street Collegiate Institute, and Emma Quirt, of Patrick Fogarty Catholic Secondary School were also nominated for the Lisa Brooking award.