Nola Ward didn’t want her retirement to be about nothing but playing golf and sitting on the couch flipping channels.
So, she decided to step out of her comfort zone and open up Balzac Craft Brewing Company in July 2019.
“This is what retirement looks like for me,” says 73-year-old Ward.
“If I’m not running the taproom, I’m planning functions or talking to those who stop by. The legacy I want to create is being someone who brings the community together. Our brewery is a place for the people; they can bring their friends, children and even dogs. It’s a place to meet old and new friends.”
Every year, Ward helps brew a special blend with Airdrie Dads and donates a portion of the proceeds to the Airdrie Food Bank. Ward has also championed various fundraisers and bottle drives for local sports teams.
Nominator Michael Ward says his mother is leaving a lasting legacy on Airdrie through the brewery by doing so much for the community.
“Nola is an incredible woman entrepreneur and a continued steward for our community,” says Michael.
“She works hard to be present in everything this community does with a constant ‘support local’ mentality. She is the first to smile when customers come in and knows every one of them by name.”