by
May 25, 2023
HAGERSVILLE—The Hagersville Chamber of Commerce (HCC) held its 11th annual Volunteer Recognition and Awards night on May 18, 2023 at the Hagersville Legion.
Volunteer and community organizations were recognized for their ongoing contributions to Hagersville including churches, youth and minor sports associations, community service organizations, and health service organizations. Chamber President Rob Phillips says, “There’s a lot of great groups that are doing things for our community.”
Appreciation certificates were presented to the Twinkle Lights and Flower committees. Phillips noted that Simplicity Air Ltd. which opened in Hagersville in 2022, has taken on the Twinkle Lights committee. He shares, “We looked for a business that wanted to partner with the community and give back.”
Hagersville is also becoming well known as a summer destination for music fans thanks to the Hagersville Rocks Music Festival. Phillips commends the organizers and says, “We have gained recognition from the Canadian Country Music Association and artists are actually reaching out to us to be a part of Hagersville Rocks.”
Special recognition was made to individuals who have added to Hagersville’s holiday spirit every December: Tim Otterman, Santa Claus Parade Chairperson; Bonnie McKinnon and Barb Gee, Evening with Santa Co-Chairs; and Charlie and Barbara Jean Garvie, who have made and donated ornaments for the Evening with Santa gift bags for many years. They were also the Co-Chairs of the Community Centre.
Commemorative plaques were presented to the Hagersville Lions, Hagersville Rocks, and the Hagersville Legion for the success of Catch the Ace which ran from May 26, 2022 to March 30, 2023. Phillips says, “It’s amazing what happened in this town. This has left a huge legacy in our community.”
Speaking on behalf of the Legion, Jack Esselment says, “It was a fantastic thing for the community. We have got to be so proud. We were known for the tire fire; then for Hagersville Rocks. Now we’re known for Catch the Ace!” Both Phillips and Esselment extended appreciation to the neighbours of the Legion and to the Hagersville businesses for their patience and understanding during the 45 week run of Catch the Ace.
Haldimand Mayor Shelley Ann Bentley offered her appreciation to the volunteers assembled noting, “This is one community that has 42 groups of volunteers… thank you to everyone who makes Haldimand Countly a great place to live, work, and play.”
Haldimand Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady describes those volunteers and small businesses as, “The backbone of our community. Without them small towns like Hagersville would grind to a halt.” Jeremy McIntee, representing MP Leslyn Lewis, adds, “The work you do is what makes Hagersville an amazing place… you’re the beating heart of the place we call home.”
The Oliver and Bernice Sayer Memorial Junior Citizen of the Year award was presented to Hagersville Seccondary School (HSS) student Eliza McNeice. As a member of the HSS student Crime Stoppers, McNeice is known for her commitment and perseverance. She often takes on more than her share of tasks and her leadership shows in the organization of activities.
McNeice demonstrates quiet leadership and fierce determination which is exemplified with more than 250 community service hours. She balances her volunteer activities with an outstanding academic record and two jobs.
The John Hamilton Almas Memorial Business of the Year is Heaslip Ford which, according to presenter Ed McCarthy, is the second oldest continuous Ford dealership in Canada. Heaslip Ford is a long-time supporter of youth sports, the West Haldimand General Hospital and West Haldimand Hospital and Healthcare Foundation, the Hagersville Food Bank, Hagersville Rocks, and the Hagersville Legion.
Heaslip Ford President Rob Phillips says, “It is truly an honour to be recognized by the Chamber and by the community… To join the list of businesses recognized in the past and in particular with the award now named in memory of John Almas whose company RF Almas Company was the first-ever recipient is truly special. Our team… is proud to build upon the legacy of the Head and Heaslip families and carry on the privilege of representing the Ford Blue Oval in Hagersville since 1910.”
The Bill Courtnage Memorial Citizen of the Year award for 2022 honours Lindsay Swick, a paramedic in Haldimand and Oxford and president of the Hagersville Fire Department. Swick is also a member of the Hagersville Legion. Phillips says, “While volunteering her time she can be seen ‘putting out fires’. She’s always willing to help.” Swick is also the first and only female Captain on the Haldimand County Fire Department.
Swick’s gratitude was felt as she spoke of her role as a first responder, both as a paramedic and volunteer firefighter. She says, “To be able to represent that group means so much to me.” Her esteem for the Legion is evident as she says, “You make me feel like a part of that family.” She has equal regard for her community saying, “Hagersville, you mean the world to me and I will keep doing everything I can because this is my home.”
That sentiment resonated throughout the evening as volunteers and businesses were credited with making Hagersville a thriving community. Their commitment and contributions create the foundation upon which the town continues to grow and every day they epitomize the new motto of the Hagersville Chamber: “In the Community, By the Community, For the Community.”
