by Steve Dills
Sylvan Lake News

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Celebrating the accomplishments of youth in Sylvan Lake, the Leaders of Tomorrow Awards were presented at a gala black and white affair, Thursday night.
More than 120 youngsters from 6 to 18 years of age were recognized during the ceremonies emceed by councillor Richard Backs. Four were chosen from their peers for the awards which are “designed to recognize those individuals whose contributions are especially noticed and appreciated by their peers, parents, teachers and co-workers.”
“Every one of the nominees has already displayed teamwork and leadership traits that will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives,” said Backs.
“The youth of Sylvan Lake make many formal and informal contributions to our schools, sport teams, churches, businesses and to the community itself. These youth exemplify our continuing hope for our future leadership. They are kind, compassionate, skillful, talented and vital members of our community.”
He said, “In narrowing the selection criteria, the selection committee was looking for individuals who are leaders today and who have demonstrated the ability, initiative and commitment to become leaders of tomorrow … right here in Sylvan Lake.”
Elementary (ages 6-9)
The winner of the elementary award (for 6-9 year olds) was Brynn Goacher.
“This individual is a very caring and giving person who continually exhibits leadership in the classroom and always does so in a gentle manner. (Brynn) sets personal goals an achieves them daily through sheer persistence! She’s always willing to help others while displaying a kind manner as an amazing role model,” read Backs.
Others nominated were Deni Brauer, Kelsey Brauer, Paige Ohman, Rayden Thomas, Maria Nast, Briana Furlong, Blake Chmil, Dawson Hilla-Hartt, Bobbi Cerin, Kennedi Snelgrove, Lane Walsh, Colby Walsh, Haleigh Stokes, Kage Chittenden, Alicia Davies, Sierra Giles, Cole Adekat, Owen Adekat, Kaden Lentz, Jordan Wild, Aden VanRiper, Grady Behrens, Larissa Robins, Devin Ciurre, Dax Foulton, Josh Swain, Corbin Grueter, Jared Underwood, Eva Anderson, CJ Wilson, Amber Mackinnon, Kadie Wolf and Kennedy Wolf.
Junior (ages 10-12)
In the junior category (ages 10-12), Jennifer Spode was the award winner.
“This leader is outgoing, energetic and always strives to do her best in everything, going out of her way to make people happy and to lend a hand. I believe this individual will continue to be an extraordinary leader for our community and for our school,” said the submission from her teacher.
Others nominated were Molly Rumohr, Katherine Henderson, James Neal, Chance Ashcroft, Michael Davison, Destiny Anderson, Jaden Giles, Kassidy Alasgow, Brandon Tweed, Jennifer Meier, Taylor Starkevich, Kane Fraser, Brandon Pambrum, Jaycee Milgate, Coleby Behrens, Dwight Akkermans, Jonathan Hanz, Steven Lagrange, Joel Jackson, Charyna Pico, Morgan Grueter, Cassandra Neal, Faith Chmil, Dustin Finley, Mikala Gunderson, Donny Hoover, Jad Rachid, Destiny Hilla-Hartt, Caitlyn Rumbolt, Chase Thomas, Brad Tows, Justice Lentz, Lily Walroth, Elizabeth McJlravey, Jacquline Starcheski, Phoenix Schultz, Olivia Barnes, Dustin Cressey, Marcus Ornella, Joshua Davey, Sheldon Therriault, and Jaxon Lynn.
Senior (ages 13-15)
Cassidy Keens was the winner in the senior category (13-15 year olds). “This individual is an all-round citizen with an amazing personality that is respected by all. By coming to school each day with a positive attitude she makes a difference in the lives of others — encouraging group participation in an energetic and supportive manner,” Backs read.
Others nominated were Ashley McLean, Alexandra Gyori, Josh Dumont, Cole Hook, Kevin Welch, Dustin Pico, Ashley Hoover, Darlene Tows, Bryce Boulanger, Clayton
McCrostie, Stephanie Lajeunesse, Nicole Ireland, Cydnee Plotnikoff, Chance Mclelland, Kyle Manion, Zac Lloyd, Ashley Akkerman and Ashley Meier.
Senior (ages 16-18)
The winner of the senior category (16-18 years old) was Cindy Popp. “In order to be an outstanding leader you must display kindness, reliability, honesty and intelligence. These are just a few of the qualities our next recipient displays. This person is very much involved in bettering the lives of Sylvan Lake youth, an acknowledged ring leader who constantly inspires others to stay involved,” Backs read.
Others nominated were Tamara Marchesi, Teagan McTaggart, Brittany Boulanger, Fiona Rumohr, Jordan Gariepy, Hayley Faucet, Kimberly Smith, Kelsey Plante, Jenna Thirbet, Cassandra Augart, Connor Sisson, Ashley Hanz, Sara Vandergagg, Megan Beckley, Jamie Southwell, Randi McCrostie, Jessica Ornella, Jaquin Law, Taylor Johnson, Kylie Trombley, Kyle Barkley, Ashley Neilson, Ted Knight, Brittany George, and Danielle Breton.
Business of the Year
Following the awards to youth, Cindy Popp and Randi McCrostie of the Youth Council and Youth Advisory Board, announced the business of the year — Tim Hortons, Sylvan Lake.
“The recipient of this award is chosen by the youth in Sylvan Lake. This decision is based on the business’s dedication to supporting local youth and by their generous contributions to youth programs in Sylvan Lake.
“… the staff at Tim Hortons has always been very supportive of the youth of this community. We can always count on them to donate to any youth program; they provide us with awesome employment opportunities and generally make us feel important to this community.”
The award was accepted, on their behalf, by Ashley Hanz.
During the evening, Mayor Susan Samson congratulated the young people and shared the five best practices for leadership.
“If you follow these five best practices of leadership in your life, everyday, you will succeed and the rewards will follow,” she said.
Backs also introduced and thanked the selection committee which included Karen Miller, councillor Lynda Sills Fiedler and Samson.