Bonnechere Valley council recognized local volunteer Brian Weckwerth at its April 22 meeting for receiving the Ontario Medal of Good Citizenship. He is one of 11 from the province who won the prestigious award for his outstanding contributions to the community. Mr. Weckworth, left, is pictured with BV Mayor Jennifer Murphy.

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Eganville – Bonnechere Valley (BV) Township council recently recognized a man whose selflessness and volunteerism have been a pillar of the local community for over 40 years.

Township CAO Annette Gilchrist nominated Brian Weckwerth for the Ontario Medal of Good Citizenship on behalf of council. While the award represented the 2023 calendar year, submissions undergo a lengthy review process to determine if candidates meet the criteria. He said he was totally surprised to hear he was one of 11 recipients chosen by Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor, Edith Dumont, for serving his community in a myriad of ways.

Recognizing Mr. Weckwerth was the first order of business at BV council’s April 22nd committee meeting. Mayor Jennifer Murphy highlighted his unwavering dedication and tireless volunteerism, adding he never expected anything in return. She said his service spans countless initiatives and is always rooted in helping the lives of others.

“With the Rotary Club, Brian has held numerous fundraising efforts, including vital support for the Eganville and District Food Bank, ensuring no family in the area has to face hunger alone. His work has helped sustain and grow resources for the most vulnerable among us,” she said.

Mayor Murphy explained Mr. Weckwerth’s contributions to Camp Lutherlyn on Golden Lake have been instrumental in allowing the cherished camp to flourish. She said in doing so, they’re able to continue nurturing growth, connection and community values.

“Thanks to his vision and hands-on involvement, the camp continues to offer affordable and accessible programming to families and children,” she continued.

The mayor went on to say his leadership continues as treasurer of the Eganville Area Community Development Group, where he helped guide projects, transformed public spaces and brought people together. She added the construction of McRae Park, the Fishing Dock and the Downtown Improvement Projects all bear the signature of his dedication and care.

“Brian, your legacy is written not just in parks or programs, but in the countless lives you’ve impacted, including my own, through your kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the common good.

“What makes Brian truly remarkable is not just the number of projects he’s touched, but the spirit in which he serves: humble, consistent, and always putting the community first,” Mayor Murphy said.

Mr. Weckwerth thanked council, emphasizing that any recognition he received reflected the entire community’s efforts, not just his own.

“First of all, I don’t see myself as a leader,” he remarked. “People like Mayor Murphy and Gerald Tracey, they’re leaders. It was tough accepting this award because I see people here that are probably more deserving of it than me. Like (Rev.) Gail Edmonson, who has devoted many hours of time to her community.”

Mr. Weckwerth said he moved home to Eganville in 1985, where he would go on to spend the next 40 years giving back.

“This is the reward I received,” he said, removing his medal from its case. “It is humbly, humbly accepted. I feel like a servant. I should be a faithful servant but I don’t know how faithful I am,” he remarked.

“But I am a servant to the community, and I gladly serve because I love my community and all the people in it,” Mr. Weckwerth continued. “You’re only as good as the people you work with. It’s the Gerald Traceys, Dave Krugers and Jennifer Murphys, etc., that make projects worthwhile and succeed. So, on behalf of everyone that took part in this, thank you so much.”

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‘Lifelines and community builders’: BV council celebrates food bank volunteers

Eganville – A group of dedicated volunteers were honoured for their behind-the-scenes efforts fighting food insecurity during Bonnechere Valley (BV) Township council’s April 22nd meeting.

The second delegation on the agenda saw council presenting volunteers from the Eganville and District Food Bank with certificates of appreciation for their ongoing commitment to serving local families with consistency and compassion. Of those recognized were Doug Davies, Gail Livitsantis, Madeline Moreau, Mary-Anne Essex, Herminio and Thais Vega de Cordido, Paul Gillis and Geri McPhail.

Mayor Jennifer Murphy spoke to the need for the local service. She said in times like these when so many are facing uncertainty, rising costs and difficult choices, the importance of food banks cannot be overstated.

“They are more than just places where food is distributed. They are lifelines, community builders and symbols of hope. They are about dignity, compassion without judgement and community resilience — neighbours helping neighbours, hand in hand.”

She thanked attendees for taking the moment to shine a spotlight on some of the incredible people who make the community stronger everyday.

“Bonnechere Valley Township is proud to recognize the outstanding volunteers of the Eganville and District Foodbank, individuals whose selfless work has uplifted countless lives,” she said. “Let’s begin by honouring someone who was more than just a volunteer, he was the heart of the food bank.”

She first called on Doug Davies, who she said has given his time, energy and spirit to the food bank for over 15 years. Mayor Murphy added Mr. Davies has a special gift: his warmth, humour and ability to make everyone feel welcome.

“Whether it was making deliveries, serving the board or dancing in the aisles to bring a smile to your face—Doug did it all. Though now retired, his legacy remains in the joy he brought and the lives he touched.”

The mayor then recognized Gail Livitsantis, saying she quite literally brought a voice of kindness to the food bank.

“As the first point of contact for many clients, her voice was often the first welcome they received. She’s also a passionate advocate for animal welfare and started a program to ensure clients’ pets are fed and taken care of,” she remarked. “Gail’s versatility and compassion have made her a vital part of daily operations.”

She went on to celebrate Mary-Anne Essex, adding many consider her as the food bank’s conscience. Highlighting her “remarkable empathy,” Mayor Murphy said she builds lasting relationships with her clients and never stops advocating for them.

“She mentors others, personally delivers food and helped mainstream how we serve people, making the process more efficient and respectful. Mary-Anne, your insight, innovation and heart have shaped the food bank into what it is today.”

Mayor Murphy then introduced the only group of two being recognized, “a true power couple.” She presented Herminio and Thais Vega de Cordido with their certificate before elaborating on both of their contributions locally.

“Thais is a constant presence. She not only volunteers weekly but also dives into research to help us better understand and support our clients. Herminio is always right there too, ready for deliveries or anything else that needs doing,” she said. “Together, their positivity, teamwork and unwavering commitment — even commuting from out of town — are inspiring.”

The mayor continued to call up Paul Gillis to accept his certificate. She called him the food bank’s ray of sunshine and clarified that she meant it sincerely.

“Paul goes above and beyond, making regular trips from Ottawa with groceries and supplies, all while offering a calm, can-do presence. He’s stepped up to fill big shoes and does so with humility and dedication,” she said, adding that despite being a part-time resident, Mr. Gillis’ heart belongs to this community on a full-time basis.

Mayor Murphy recognized Geri McPhail, who, while a newer volunteer, jumped in headfirst and quickly took on major roles like managing the food inventory, placing orders and coordinating distribution.

“She even began (offering) a birthday program for clients — a beautiful gesture of dignity and joy. Now vice-chair of the board, Geri has shown exceptional leadership and heart.”

Last but not least, the mayor then turned to Nevill Carney. He accepted the award on behalf of Madeline Moreau, who Mayor Murphy said has become synonymous with dependability.

“For more than two decades, she’s been a steady presence, always ready to take on whatever role is needed. Madeline has deep ties in the community, connecting the food bank to the Catholic Church and Credit Union,” she said. “Her quiet strength and reliability have helped build trust with clients and volunteers alike.”

BV council’s tribute served as a reminder that while food banks rely on donations and infrastructure, it’s the people who show up week after week who keep them running.