Two residents were acknowledged for their contributions to Jasper’s community well-being by Mayor and Council on April 16.

During National Volunteer Week, Jasperites Marie-Pierre Flipo-Bergeron and Kiara Davis were presented with Mayor’s Recognition Awards for their volunteer efforts.

“We’re a small community in need of volunteers,” Mayor Richard Ireland said in Jasper Municipal Council’s Quorum Room, where Flipo-Bergeron and Davis were presented with their awards on Tuesday. “Your fine example helps spur others to volunteer.”

Flipo-Bergeron was presented the Distinguished Volunteer Service award. She was nominated in large part for her efforts in organizing the Sundays Outdoor Live Music in the Park initiative, Ireland explained, but Flipo-Bergeron is well-known for bringing music to Jasper daycare and seniors’ facilities, too. 

The concert series debuted last June 18 and ran all summer, bringing free, all-ages, primarily-acoustic sets to the CN Place/Jim Vena Stage at Commemoration Park. The line-up for the 2024 concerts is currently being assembled.

“Marie is the epitome of passion,” Ireland said, quoting her nominator. “Her love of music is infectious. These events provide a sense of belonging, inclusion and diversity to the community.”

Kiara Davis was also presented a Mayor’s Recognition Award—for Athletics. 

Davis, 17-years-old, was nominated for her years of service and ongoing achievements with the Jasper Gymnastics Club. 

“She has worked tirelessly to help keep the Jasper Gymnastics Club running,” Ireland said. 

Davis has been with the club since she was an infant, and now works with a range of gymnasts, from three-year-olds to competitive athletes. Her nominators said she is an ambassador for Jasper at competitions and enjoys sharing her talents with the next generation.

“And she does all of this with a quiet determination and a smile on her face,” Ireland said.

 Davis said she enjoys sharing her passion with her fellow gymnasts.

“It’s great to see their expressions when they come with a smile,” she said. 

Bob Covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com