Jasperites gathered together to recognize outstanding businesses and individuals who enhance Jasper as a destination and a home during the annual Business and Ambassador Awards Gala Oct. 17.
This year’s event—which like every other year was a sold out affair—saw the Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce hand out eight awards, including the inaugural Non-Profit Organization of the Year Award.
Below are the award winners, along with a brief description of why they were selected.
Business of the Year
Jasper Park Stables/Stables at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
“Both Jasper Park Stables and the Stables at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge are owned and operated by Dale and Mary Fullerton. From day one they have dedicated themselves and their business to delivering ‘Jasper’. As active members of the Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Jasper, both Dale and Mary realize and work toward an ideal for Jasper; that it be 100 per cent and more for each and every visitor. With the acquisition of their second location this spring, Mary and Dale required more of everything. And everything translated to 97 head of horses, 400 bales of hay, 25 guides, 128 saddles and a whole bunch of horse shoes. I don’t even want to think of the number of shovels and wheel barrows required.”
- Presented by Wayne Hnatyshin, President of the Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce
Ambassador of the Year
Janet Barker
“Janet Barker has been a champion of causes too numerous to recount, but each and every one has left its impression on our community. From advocating on behalf of seniors in Jasper, to making sure we have the equipment we need to effectively treat residents and visitors, Janet is ‘on it’. Specifically, Jasper now boasts a new piece of highly effective medical equipment as a direct result of Janet’s tireless contribution to the fundraising endeavour.”
- Presented by Mary Darling, CEO of Tourism Jasper
Non-Profit Organization of the Year
Community Futures West Yellowhead
“Community Futures West Yellowhead was nominated by an entrepreneur in Jasper who saw they were taking the needs of business to a different place. An in-depth survey of business owners put words to paper and as such, will move that paper from a theoretical to practical approach to sustain and create a thriving economy.”
- Presented by Joe Couture, Vice President of the Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce
Individual Award of Distinction
Ken Kuzminski
“Ken is a business owner known for his ability to swing a hammer, but tonight he is being recognized as a dedicated volunteer who, in his spare time, is the president of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 31 in Jasper, the past president of the Jasper Park Chamber of Commerce and a tireless can-do guy who never seems to miss an opportunity to assist wherever and whenever.”
- Presented by Nancy Robbins, General Manager of Community Futures West Yellowhead
Outstanding Community Ambassador
Marta Rode
“There is hardly a Jasperite who isn’t aware of PJ Day! Marta has embraced the challenge of raising awareness of autoimmune diseases on a personal level for a very public reason; her quest to contribute to finding a cure has put the cause and Jasper on the map. Attracting hundreds of residents and Edmonton’s Breakfast Television, Marta remains a humble resident with a huge place in her heart for all of Jasper and all who struggle with the many and varied autoimmune diseases.”
- Presented by Mayor Richard Ireland, Municipality of Jasper
Outstanding Visitor Experience Ambassador(s)
Shelley and Sam Koebel
“Dedication to one’s business is one thing, dedication to make that business an eclectic, one of a kind art gallery, music venue and coffee shop with a great brew is another story. Always willing to help and at the same time making ‘doing the laundry’ a whole new experience for visitors, Shelley and Sam have created a visitor experience unique to our community. We are lucky to have them put Jasper’s relaxed, unhurried and happy vibe on the map. I suppose being No. 1 on Trip Advisor doesn’t hurt either!”
- Presented by Matt Figeuira, Publisher of the Fitzhugh
Outstanding Activity/Attraction Ambassador
Nick Hinde
“As a ski instructor, Nick takes his work to the next level—a caring and compassionate man who dedicates his knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm to work with individuals with special needs to ensure they fully enjoy a day on the hill. Nick makes sure that each person who wants to can indeed do what they want. He has made making the mountain accessible to one and all his No. 1 priority. Having been nominated by two Marmot Basin supervisors would be a sure indicator that he is succeeding at what he does.”
- Presented by Greg Fenton, Superintendent of Jasper National Park
Communities in Bloom Award
L&W Restaurant
“L&W—Joanna and Gus Vlahos—have been nominated for their outstanding attention to the flora inside and out. L&W is an establishment to behold! Further, kudos to L&W for their attention to the sidewalks and general tidiness in and around their premises.”
- Presented by Gloria Kongrud, Member of the Communities in Bloom Committee
Award winners Nick Hinde and Joanna and Gus Vlahos were absent. Their awards were accepted on their behalf.
