On Saturday evening, the Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce held its inaugural ambassador and small-business awards gala, recognizing a variety of groups and individuals who have gone above and beyond in their contributions to the tourism industry, local economy and community in general.

This is the second year for the small business awards and first for the ambassador awards, said Chamber of Commerce general manager Pattie Pavlov, but it’s the first time a dedicated event has been held for the purpose of recognizing community members in this way.

Previously, the small business awards were part of the chamber’s annual Christmas party but Pavlov said the gala was a way of providing broader recognition.

Here are the award winners, along with some brief descriptions of why they were selected.  

Outstanding Activity or Attraction Ambassador

Daniel Travis, Glacier View Inn

“Daniel’s quick smile and willingness to please prompted a visitor to comment: ‘It seems to me, more often than not, that people only talk about bad things, never good. I hope that Jasper has the mechanisms for recognizing when someone does a good job and genuinely enjoys seeing yet another tourist in front of them.’”

Greg Fenton, superintendent of Jasper National Park

Outstanding Visitor Experience Ambassador

Marie Golka, Creekside Accommodations

“Marie’s nomination came via a selfless desire to be there for a guest in need. While visiting Jasper at Marie’s accommodation, a guest fell ill and required not only hospital treatment, but transportation to Hinton initially and Edmonton, as well. Marie simply did what she had to do. She drove the couple’s other half to Edmonton, installed her in a hotel, stayed overnight in Edmonton with the family members and returned the next morning to care for her other guests. She refused to accept any form of payment for her time or her expense.”

Mike Day, town councillor

Outstanding Community Ambassador

Cliff Brown, Municipality of Jasper

“We all know Cliff Brown. Cliff is employed by the municipality. He works hard to ensure the downtown business area is spanking clean, and always with a smile.”

Joe Couture, Jasper Chamber of Commerce board member

2011 Ambassador of the Year

Arvon Hilworth

“His nomination comes because of his historical knowledge of Jasper and, most importantly, Arvon is willing to pass that knowledge on.”

Joe Couture, Jasper Chamber of Commerce board member

Individual Award of Distinction 

Dennis Zaffino

“An individual who embraces all of the principles of entrepreneurship.”

Tammy Vathje, Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce treasurer

Outstanding Jasper Ambassador Program Support

Friends of Jasper National Park

“Their ‘Walk in the Past’ presentation was so informative and engaging that visitors frequently commented about their newfound knowledge of Jasper’s unique history. As a not-for-profit society, the Friends’ willingness to participate in the Ambassador Program was another example of community coming together for a common goal.”

Maggie Davison, CEO of Tourism Jasper

Small Business Award of Distinction

Jasper Tire and Auto

“Just like the old commercial says, ‘No job is too big and no job is too small.’ Rob Block and Jim Richards have built a business on excellence in customer service. Without a doubt, Jim and Rob and their well dedicated staff have worked to meet the needs of Jasperites, as well as stranded motorists over the years.”

Ken Kuzminski, Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce president