2024 Municipal Award Recipients

Felix Sheppard is a dedicated and accomplished swimmer, who boasts impressive achievements in the pool, solidifying his status as a leader and mentor. Throughout the 2023 swim season, Felix dominated competitions, earning numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals at various meets. Beyond his athletic abilities, his passion for swimming is evident in his coaching role with the Marlins Swim Team. His positive attitude, integrity, and dedication makes Felix a role model both in and out of the pool. 

Emily Power is an ambassador for her sport, province, and country. She currently holds a first-degree black belt in Kenpo Karate and trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. With an impressive record of accomplishments, including 2-time Canadian Champion and 5-time World Champion, Emily has proudly represented Paradise and Canada on numerous occasions. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond the mat, as she generously mentors’ young athletes in the Paradise Soccer Club program. 

Gleb Evstigneev is a high-performance athlete who trains 20 hours a week at Campia Gymnastics. His achievements in the realm of trampoline gymnastics have elevated the sport within our province and on the national and international stages. In 2023 Gleb made history for Team NL at the 2023 Canada Winter Games by securing the first medal of the games for the province with a gold medal performance in the Individual Trampoline competition. Currently studying at Memorial University, Gleb values professional development and leadership and is now a certified coach who strives to help youth have a safe sporting experience. 

Kieth Glynn is a dedicated long-distance runner, who co-founded the Paradise Running Club. He has consistent performances, and his community involvement is vital to Paradise’s running scene. In 2023, Keith showcased his running completing 10 NLAA-sanctioned road races, securing podium placements in eight races within his age group. He has completed numerous Tely 10 Races, was inducted into the Newfoundland and Labrador Athletics Association Hall of Fame and received the Dr. John Williams Award for encouraging others to participate in the Tely 10.  

Steve Nolan has tirelessly devoted himself to the success and well-being of his athletes year after year, guiding them to remarkable achievements at provincial, national, and international levels. Just this year his athletes have claimed victories and gold medals at the Canada Winter Games and the Pan American Championships. Recognized as a respected figure within the trampoline community, Steve generously shares expertise with fellow coaches, contributing to the advancement of coaching practices and nurturing the development of future talents.

Grace Norris is a remarkable student leader. As the Student Council President of Mount Pearl Senior High, they orchestrate impactful events that engaged schools across the region. They coach basketball, choreograph award winning musicals, and organize community fundraisers. Despite their busy schedule, they balance working while excelling in academics and volunteering. A commitment to community service shines through in their involvement with the Stuff the Bus foundation, which raised over $1600 for families in need. Grace's academic achievements, including consistent placement on the Principal's List, and winning scholarships reflect their dedication to excellence. They remain a shining example of determination, leadership, and compassion. 

As a dedicated volunteer in Paradise, Frank Witherall pours his heart and soul into every event and initiative. Whether it's organizing a float for a Christmas parade, hosting a dinner, or spearheading a fundraiser, he goes above and beyond, giving his all. As the secretary of the Paradise Centennial Lion’s Club, Frank's not just a member, his unwavering support and commitment to fostering community spirit are truly inspiring. 

Adele Burton embodies an unwavering commitment to making Paradise a better place. She was a voice for change, championing discussions with government to support a new high school for Paradise. As a Lions Club member, she leads fundraisers and lends a helping hand at Ronald McDonald House, ensuring families in need receive support. From fundraising for the food bank to serving BBQ on Canada Day, her dedication knows no bounds. Even amidst her busy schedule, she coaches bowling and assists the Salvation Army in their Christmas Kettle fundraiser. 

The Kin Club of Paradise is an organization with a motto, "Serving the Community's Greatest Need". They are dedicated to enriching communities through service, leadership, and partnership. They lead major fundraising initiatives, clean-ups, and drives for food and school supplies, among other efforts. This year for their special month of Founders February, they gave donations to several community groups including the Avalon Dragons, the 905 Viking Air Cadets, and the Paradise/CBS Food Bank, among others.  It has been a great year of community spirit, and their community presence was felt throughout Paradise.

Banished Brewing is a business that has become a hub for our town, bringing people together and fostering a spirit of inclusivity. Within its first 20-months of operations, Banished Brewing had the second largest volume craft brewery in the province, established a large-scale distribution network, and exported to five Canadian provinces. It has been recognized for excellence with 10 Canadian Brewing Awards nominations. The business is focused on being an inclusive community space and giving back to the community whenever possible. They also supported over 20 minor sports teams, and each year, they brew Paddles Up with the Avalon Dragons where $0.50 from every can sold is donated to the organization.  

Avalon Karate is a company with a dedication to excellence that extends beyond its role as a martial arts institution—it is a trailblazer in promoting inclusivity and advancing the sport of karate on both local and national levels. The club is pioneering a Para-Karate program, the only one of its kind in the province. From its commitment to inclusivity and community engagement to its dedication to employee development and service quality, the business sets a shining example of what can be achieved through passion, perseverance, and a deep-seated commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

CE23 is a business that exemplifies innovation and resilience. Its location is one of its most innovative aspects as they transformed a former fabrication shop into a 14,000 sq ft modern sports facility. It offers a full-size NBA court, smaller courts, training areas and more. Providing a fun and positive yet challenging environment they give athletes opportunities to thrive and succeed. They are committed to fostering youth development and basketball excellence with a goal to teach essential basketball skills while instilling a true love for the game.