Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal Celebrates Annual Awards Ceremony

Spencerville – The Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal held its Annual Awards Ceremony on Monday, December 16, at 6 PM at the Town Hall in Spencerville.

The event was attended by numerous community members, local leaders, and special guests who gathered to celebrate exceptional contributions to the Township.

Mayor Tory Deschamps opened the ceremony with a special presentation recognizing Ann Shorey, a firefighter with the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal Fire Department. Earlier this year, Ann was honoured at the Brockville Young Professionals Network 40 Under 40 celebration. Ann, who also serves as Deputy Treasurer for Augusta Township, is a champion for women’s initiatives in the firefighting field, making significant strides to encourage and support women in the profession.

New Awards Introduced in 2024

This year, the Township introduced three new award categories to recognize excellence within the community:

Small Business of the Year: The Rustic Spoon

Deputy Mayor Dillabough and Councillor Martelle presented the award for Small Business of the Year to The Rustic Spoon. Deputy Mayor Dillabough highlighted the business’s notable growth “We have witnessed a remarkable transformation of this establishment. Chad Dyke and his team have excelled in providing exceptional service and delicious food.” The Rustic Spoon has become a true gathering spot for residents. Since its inception, the business has been participating in local events and supporting our community in many ways. Although Chad Dyke was unable to attend, the recognition resonated with the audience.

Large Business of the Year: Giant Tiger Distribution Centre

The award for Large Business of the Year was presented to the Giant Tiger Distribution Centre. Representatives John Hubbard, Head of Distribution, and Tara Migneault, Head of Supply Chain Integration, were on hand to accept the award. Mayor Deschamps praised Giant Tiger for their kindness and consistent support of local initiatives: “Giant Tiger’s generosity knows no bounds as they have consistently supported our local food bank, ensuring that those in need have access to essential resources. From donating an accessible play structure at Legion Way in Cardinal to contributing to Earth Day clean-ups and Trunk or Treat events, Giant Tiger continues to be an active partner in improving our community.”

Community/Volunteer Group of the Year: South Edwardsburgh Public School Breakfast Club

Councillors Ward and Smail presented the Community/Volunteer Group of the Year award to the South Edwardsburgh Public School Breakfast Club. Councillor Ward commended the group’s unwavering dedication: “For the past four years, this group of retired community members has come together every Tuesday and Thursday, without fail, to prepare and serve breakfast to our students. These volunteers have removed a significant barrier – hunger – allowing students to focus on what truly matters: their education.”

Youth Citizen of the Year: Heidi Garswood

Mayor Deschamps presented the Youth Citizen of the Year award to Heidi Garswood, a resident of Johnstown and a student at Queen’s University studying Applied Science – Engineering. Mayor Deschamps praised Heidi for her commitment to community, sport, and education: “Heidi’s ability to balance the aspects of teenage life with her passion for sports and academic success is truly inspiring. When not focusing on her studies, Heidi can be seen in the local pool as a competitor and coach, on the ice at the rink as a referee, on the ball field as the umpire, or at a local venue playing music.”

Citizen of the Year: Lori Lurges

Deputy Mayor Dillabough presented the Citizen of the Year award to Lori Lurges. Lori’s dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment have profoundly impacted the community, especially in the lives of young readers. Lori founded the READ Program (Reading, Enjoyment, and Development Program), which offers personalized lessons tailored to each child’s needs at the Edwardsburgh Cardinal Public Libraries. Mayor Deschamps emphasized the program’s importance: “Lori’s heart and passion are evident in every aspect of her work. She has touched the lives of countless children, fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder that extends far beyond the classroom.”

A Night of Recognition and Gratitude

The Annual Awards Ceremony served as an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made a lasting impact in the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal. At the close of the event, guests were encouraged to enjoy refreshments and celebrate the night’s award recipients. Mayor Deschamps concluded: “It’s the collective effort of each and every one of you that makes our community special.”