Citizens honoured at Stephen Awards banquet

Highlighting the efforts of local volunteers and the achievements of local youth, the annual Stephen Awards were handed out April 17 at a banquet in Stephenville.

Local dignitaries joined with citizens of Stephenville and Kippens in thanking those members of both towns who work to give back to their communities in some way.

Town of Stephenville Councillor Don Gibbons toasted volunteers.

"When you look around this room tonight and you see those volunteers honoured for their work it makes one proud to be among them," he said.

Town of Kippens Councillor John Dawson shared this sentiment in bringing greetings from the Town of Kippens.

"Our town and our region are better places in which to live because of the special individuals who either for their achievements or their volunteer efforts we are saluting this evening," he said.

"Remember, you are the lifeblood which energizes our area and makes our area a special place in which to live."

Youth of the Year 2007 recipient Hillary Stacey was the evening's guest speaker. She talked about her volunteering experiences through Girl Guides of Canada, why it is important for youth to be involved in their communities, and also noted events like the annual Relay for Life and Duke of Edinburgh Awards programs couldn't happen without volunteers.

Among the awards handed out was the Citizen of the Year Award. Terry Smith, nominated by the Stephenville Rotary Club, was chosen to receive this honour.

"It's great to get this award for volunteering in the community," he said in receiving the award. "You don't' do it for yourself, you do it for the community."

Mr. Smith chairs the annual Rotary Music Festival for schoolchildren and is involved with a number of other charitable initiatives through the Rotary Club.

Robert Miller, treasurer of the Bay St. George Sick Children's Foundation, was the award's other nominee.

Stephenville High School Level II student Jennifer O'Quinn was chosen as the year's Youth of the Year.

Ms. O'Quinn volunteer experience includes the liturgy program at her church, the local wish maker parade and Children's Wish Foundation. She has also volunteered at Silverwood Manor.

Jennifer was nominated for her award by the Stephenville High School Duke of Edinburgh Award group, of which she is a member.

Kippens resident and Stephenville High student Jillian Forsey was recognized with the Junior Female Athlete of the Year Award.

Ms. Forsey is active in track and field, cross country skiing and badminton. She is also a member of her school's soccer, volleyball and softball teams.

Ms. Forsey has numerous provincial, national and international achievements, finishing 2nd in the 1600m distance for under 14 at the Hershey North American Finals in Pennsylvania and breaking a 30-year standing record in Newfoundland and Labrador with her personal new best time.

Jillian was nominated for the award by the Whaleback Nordic Ski Club, of which she is a member.

Patric Alexander was recognized as the Junior Male Athlete of the Year. He has represented Stephenville High School at numerous hockey, soccer, softball, volleyball and ball hockey events.

Patric has been a member of the Newfoundland and Labrador National Aboriginal Hockey Championship team and has also completed his coaching certification, working as an Atom team coach with Stephenville Minor Hockey and also coaching and referring with minor soccer.

Patric was nominated for his award by Stephenville Minor Hockey.