The Tumbler Ridge Chamber has announced its winners for its second annual Community Excellence Awards, and Lush Desserts has been named Tumbler Ridge’s Business of the Year.
The awards were broadcast online for the second year in a row. The plan for next year, says Chamber Manager Jerrilyn Kirk, is to have a gala banquet, but with covid restrictions still in place, it was decided a gala would be a hard sell this year.
Businesses, organizations and individuals were nominated by members of the public, and then voted on by a panel of judges from Chambers of Commerce around the province.
Each nominator was encouraged to write up a description of the person or company being nominated and why they deserved it. “Lush Desserts brings such a good vibe to the town of Tumbler,” writes one person. “Not many small towns are lucky enough to have half the amazing bakery we do. From people bringing their children in for a cupcake to celebrate their day or people away from home who can come in and get fresh bread.”
Another says “The bakery couldn’t have opened at a better time. It filled a void we didn’t know we needed. Great business in town and happy to see it running successfully!”
A third says “What this young lady has accomplished this year is amazing. Every scrumptious bit she delivers, is proof of her skill and love of baking. Very professional , beautiful setting and accommodating to all my requests! I don’t know where she finds the time to do it all!”
The runner up for Business of the Year was the Tumbler Ridge Inn. “The TR Inn made living through Covid more doable,” writes one person. “The restaurant had their patio, they delivered delicious food and the stayed open and provided services to the community and our visitors. Thank you to the staff, management and owners of the TR Inn and Kinuseo Cafe!”
Another says “Brenda and staff at Kinuseo Cafe always do such nice meals. It is a great place to go for coffee, desert or a wonderful meal. I have also been with groups who have used the upper area and that provides the community a very nice spot for groups to meet.”
Ronke Solomon was awarded Citizen of the Year.
“Ronke works tirelessly in our community to ensure our most vulnerable are fed and given the dignity they deserve,” wrote one person. “She has created a ‘shopping’ experience for those who need to access the food bank and I know many people who have appreciated her kindness over the years she has done this.”
Another wrote: “She goes over and beyond to help all. Running the food bank is a gigantic chore that takes much of her time and dedication. She does it with grace, kindness and joy.”
Still another said “Ronke does an outstanding job running the food bank for anyone that struggles in these covid times. She also spends her time running the Good Food Box to bring the people of Tumbler Ridge healthy affordable vegetables every other week. We appreciate all She does for the community. Thank you Ronke.”
Ronke was joined on the virtual winner’s podium by Terry Cosgrove, who was named 2021’s volunteer of the year. “Terry is a vibrant volunteer, she is well versed in the community and loves Tumbler Ridge with all her being,” wrote one nominator. “She is passionate, enthusiastic and a real go getter. She volunteers and spearheads most projects for the TR Days Society. She works nonstop to bring enjoyment and family friendly events to the community. She is truly a bright light and strives to make TR a great place to live!
“Terry has to be the most hard-working volunteers in our society, putting in absolutely the most hours of anyone,” writes another. “And I am not just talking about 2021, but in her entire time on and off as a member of our board of directors. In this last year she has been one of the main driving contributors to getting the new TR Days Society’s building in operations. She inspires me every time with her dedication to entertaining our community and its residence. Especially when she jokes and tells me she can’t wait to throw the reins over to me. I would like to nominate Terry Cosgrove as volunteer of the year!”
Another says: “Terry has put in countless hours over the many years she has been part of the society, there is so much work that goes unnoticed between contacting sponsors, planning and organizing future events and facilitating activities and events. Terry has volunteered in Tumbler Ridge for 12+ years without asking for anything in return and taking it upon herself to organize incredibly fun family events and activities, lifting the livelihood of our community and reenergizing our burnt out volunteers. She chairs our meetings and keeps things moving even during the unfortunate times of this global pandemic, it didn’t slow her down and she brings a fresh eye for detail and takes pride in what she does for the residents of Tumbler Ridge.”
The Tumbler Ridge Library was named employer of the year. “The reason I am nominating the library as employer of the year is because of the team that Paula has built and the joy each of the people who work there seem to share with those who use the library. I don’t think the library gets enough credit for all of the work it does. It is a place that is often taken for granted…it is there and available and people use it…but those who use it don’t always think of the work that it takes to create such a warm, inclusive, welcoming and useable space. I know the workers don’t make nearly as much as those who work for the town or for the mine but they always seem happy to work there. Thank you TR Public Library for all you bring to our community.”
The Tumbler Ridge Lions were named nonprofit of the year. “The Lion’s Club goes above and beyond and will volunteer for events to ensure people are fed well,” reads the nomination. “They also run the Flatbed Campground in the summer months. This gives people from all over a great opportunity to camp in our area for a reasonable cost. The volunteers are an aging group, but they are very active in the community. The provide bingo, a concession, funds for people in dire need. If it wasn’t for the Lion’s, community events wouldn’t be as well attended.”
Winner of the Home Based Business of the year was Amanda Rimes and her business, Monkman Creations. “Monkman Rustic Creations is a two year old business that has worked hard to make all its customers happy. Amanda Rimes is a pleasure to work with and always willing to make sure everyone is 100% happy with every piece she creates. This business is a wonderful business.” A second nominator writes that “Amanda Rimes runs this business out of her garage creating the most beautiful pieces. I have purchased a few pieces from her and they are stunning. Monkman Rustic Creations is my first choice for gifts or even just personal wooden pieces. She always has a smile on her face and is willing to go above and beyond to make her customers happy.”
There were two awards given to Outstanding Sportsperson or organization. “Kevin has some kind of allergy to sitting on a couch,” writes one person of runner-up Kevin Pittman. “His job often requires him to work all hours, he is a volunteer firefighter and president of the Tumbler Ridge Firefighters Asscioation, yet despite all this, compromises absolutely nothing when it comes to coaching kids hockey. Kevin is hugely intertwined with junior sports development in the community and is a huge asset to Tumbler Ridge.”
The winner of the category was the Tumbler Ridge Mountain Bike Association (TRMBA). “The TRMBA is a relatively new association who has been working hard for the past ten months to build relationships, set direction and build capacity. We came into existence when we noticed that our community, which is known for its outdoor activities and trails, (hiking, running, cross country ski, snowshoeing, boating, ATV, snowmobile, equestrian) had one glaring omission, that being bike trails. As we considered this further, we realized that we knew of no biking trails north of Prince George, representing over half of the land in BC. We decided to work towards making Tumbler Ridge a world class mountain biking area, and give Northeast BC a place that would encourage mountain biking tourism, as this location provides the perfect geology and location to become the hub for Northern BC and Northern Alberta. We have consulted with the community and are ready to move forward. One of the primary motivations for founding the TRMBA was to provide Tumbler Ridge with a means of economic diversification through increased tourism, and the subsequent businesses that are developed to serve tourists (e.g. restaurants, specialty shops, hotels), as well as to provide our regional residents with another amazing recreational opportunity, all within a short ride from their front door.”
The runner-up for Outstanding Customer Service Award went to Kaila’s Hair studio. “What is there to say about someone who is so dedicated to her community and business other than thank you so much for all you do? Kaila does such amazing work. She is fantastic with the children and she always, always makes sure the customer is happy. She is lovely to chat with and makes people feel good about themselves through her words and skills. She goes above and beyond to make sure people are happy.”
Another person nominated Kaila for “Great prices, great work, great atmosphere, and an awesome person! We appreciate having you in TR and are happy to support you however we can.”
A third says “Thanks for cutting my son’s hair, he won’t sit still for anyone else.”
The winner for Outstanding Customer Service Award was Home Hardware. “Jan and Dean go above and beyond when we need something ordered in to the store. They are also excellent in helping with school orders. We appreciate their willingness to find great deals and offer assistance all the time,” writes one person.
Another says: “I might have nominated them already, but the fact that I was able to order a new snowblower on the weekend has renewed my desire to nominate them. There are so many things they have done for us personally: ordered things we needed, researched products for us, offered us an alternative, being willing to deliver appliances (for no extra costs), assemble products that would have me tearing my hair out etc. but they also help the school and have played a big part in sourcing materials for the fish farm and kitchen.”
The runner up in the Up and Coming Business Award category was Rob Duhaime of Rockin’ Rob’s Dollar Store. “I have never had a negative experience with Robert. He has always given excellent customer service and goes above and beyond for his customers,” writes one person.
The winner of the Up and Coming Business category was Bryce Kirby and 242-Brew/Western Steakhouse. “Running any restaurant through a pandemic has extreme challenges, but opening one right at the onset of one and staying afloat throughout is something else entirely. Over the past year I have watched Bryce face just about every business and restaurant challenge the world could have thrown at her: delayed ingredients deliveries, new computer systems, staff changes, internet issues, TV issues, event planning and many more. Yet every single time she took it in her stride, came back with a wide smile, a humble belief in herself, amazing food, drinks and excellent customer service. I hope she’s as proud of herself as I am of her!!! You’re a star Bryce!!!”
Another person writes that “Bryce has proven herself as a business woman this year with her startup of 242 Brew. Covid has thrown several hurdles to all businesses, and Bryce has adapted.”
Still another person writes: “What impresses me most is the positive outlook she has, she is still trying to provide the community with dining out experiences that are unique and affordable. 242 Brew has a special dine in day for seniors, she provides bagged lunches for hotel guests, she caters events, and has partnered with the Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark to host events. This year in particular 242 Brew hosted a clothing drive, the Fishing Derby wrap up, and the Christmas Light Up. Bryce has shown resiliency, perseverance and determination in business through a very tough time, and is doing it with excitement and a will to succeed.”
The People’s Choice Award for 2021 was the Emperor’s Challenge, which was a testament to the organizers of the race, which didn’t actually run in 2021 due to Covid restrictions. Still, “This event deserves a first place medal,” says one person. “It is run so well. It brings people into our community and it recognizes elite athletes as well as people such as local mothers, youth, miners and children. It puts them all on equal footing for a day of fun, laughter, sweat, tears, scratches, bumps and bruises and complete exhaustion and satisfaction. What other sports event has brought so much attention to Tumbler Ridge and so many visitors to our community? This event is amazing. Although there is an element of competitiveness, it is mainly competing with yourself. The other amazing thing about this race is that people help each other. Hats off to the planning committee and those who donate so much of their time and energy to putting on this event and hats off to WNMS who maintains and builds many of our amazing trails in TR. I really hope the race can take place in 2022.”
Finally, Mark Deeley was named Educator of the Year. He received plenty of nominations, which will be quoted at length, here: “There should be more teachers like Mark. A truly selfless individual. TR is very lucky to have him.”
“Mark Deeley has always gone above and beyond with his students. Not only does he have structure in his classroom he also makes all his classes fun and informative. Mark provides many opportunities in the school that are not available in many other schools and volunteers his time to help others whenever possible as a teacher sponsor.”
“Mark has always been a mentor to me, as a teacher and later in life as a friend. He has a passion for teaching and a genuine connection to his students where he always expresses respect and unique understanding to each person he comes into contact with. During my time at TRSS I felt that Mark was a safe person to talk to on a educational and personal level. He deserves the recognition and award of Educator of the Year because it is evident he puts pride into his work and takes an interest in his students being the best they can be. Please consider Mr. Deeley when reviewing your nominations, there is no educator better suited for this award in Tumbler Ridge. Thank you.”
“Mark Deeley gives students the possibility to succeed at whatever level they are at. He provides opportunities for students to excel and realize their potential. He is fair and respectful of his student’s needs, even the most challenging needs. Mr Deeley is open to new ideas and is inclusive to all ages, with a passion for invoking interest in science for everyone. He even collaborated his high school students with the StrongStart program children for some fun scientific experiences. Mark Deeley perfectly combines a personal sense of wonder and experience in his field and a zest for passing this knowledge on to his students.”
“Goes over and above to ensure his students get the education they need and deserve. Has helped both of my sons immensely both educationally and personally.”
“Mark Deeley is a very caring teacher, who goes above and beyond for his students including lots of extra help sessions and personal help if needed. He puts his students first and would do anything for them. He works hard and is a very good teacher who makes learning fun.”
“I would like to Nominate Mark Deeley for Educator of the Year. I have known Mr. Deeley for 9 years as he has taught both my sons. Mr Deeley is not an ordinary teacher. This man goes above and beyond when it comes to teaching. He truly cares about his students both in class and out of class. He is always thinking of new courses which he could provide to our kids which gives them real time life skills, which they need. He created the Fish Farm course which has been a huge success and every year there is a waiting list for kids who want to take this course. He has also created the broadcasting course. Both of these courses give our teens new skills which they can take with them once they leave high school. As well both courses have involved the community. The fish farm welcomes members of the community to not only live stream what is going on in the class, but he also welcomes members of the community to come and tour the fish farm. This year they had a tour of the fish farm as well as trick or treating for our community while there. The radio station has contests which involves our community. My sons never had a teacher like him before. He believes in every student and does everything he can do to make sure they succeed. Mr Deeley is a humble man who truly deserves this honour.”
“Mr. Deeley has always been there for the kids. He has helped so many children including one of mine with bullying issues. He has taught all four of my kids and all of them look up to him. He is a teacher who made learning fun and captured the attention of his students. He makes these kids want to learn. He stands up for them when they need it most. He makes me want to learn science again! I can’t think of a teacher more deserving then Mr. Deeley.”
Trent is the publisher of Tumbler RidgeLines.
