In recognition of its community service in Orillia, Davenport Subaru has been nominated for the 2006 Laureate Award by the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA) and Industrial Alliance Pacific.

"I was walking three feet off the ground when I received the letter (stating) I had been nominated. It tickled me to see that," said dealership owner Mike Davenport, speaking with Business Times.

In the automobile industry, Davenport said being nominated for a Laureate Award is comparable to being nominated for an Academy Award in the motion picture world.

It's one of the highest accolades a dealership can receive.

Davenport Subaru has been nominated by the CADA in the 'Ambassador' category, recognizing the contributions that the dealership has made within Orillia and area.

"We've always been a big community supporter," said Davenport.

He's been an automobile dealer for 11 years and the franchise owner of Davenport Subaru for the past eight years.

He also serves as head of the local chamber of commerce.

Davenport Subaru is one of three dealers that has been nominated for the Laureate Award by the CADA and Industrial Alliance Pacific.