Shoveling a modest task for snow warriors

“Our neighbours are such good people, and we all get along so good. Quite often when I’m doing other work, and it’s just a matter of a few minutes, I go and do a little bit for the others to,” said Sevigny, who is retired and now works part time.

Sevigny said it was nice to be recognized for what he does.

“I didn’t expect it, I mean, I’d still do it whether I got nominated or not,” said Sevigny. “Ever since I was younger I’ve always thought if you have something you should share it with others and so I have things that I can do in order to help neighbours out too.”

He said he encourages anyone that is able to do the same. In addition to a golden shovel key chain, Sevigny and Wiens got to choose from four prize options.

A $100 gift certificate to the Alfred Jenkins Fieldhouse, a $100 gift certificate for the E.A. Rawlinson Centre, vouchers for six Raider Hockey Games or two adult green fees at the Cooke Municipal Golf Course were up for grabs. Sevigny went with the Fieldhouse certificate, while Wiens went with the E.A. Rawlinson Centre.
Wiens said he likes having the walkways clean in his neighbourhood.

“I just retired, not quite two years ago, so I have more time and I don’t mind shoveling, I’m still healthy that way,” he said.

According to Wiens he wasn’t expecting to be nominated at all, but his neighbours seem to think he deserves the recognition.

“I was surprised, I didn’t think I did that much but I don’t know, they appreciate it. They’re really nice neighbours,” he said.

In total 83 nominations were received. Each person nominated was given a golden shovel keychain from the city.

Kiley Bear is the communications manager for the city and said the award shows how important this small act of kindness is.

“The award is to recognize and encourage people to get out and shovel sidewalks for their neighbors,” she said.

With the 83 nominations they receive explanations, and she said some people are very grateful for the service.

“Some people really have mobility issues and can’t do it themselves and they have no other way to express their thanks. And we get a lot of that where people are writing in and saying, ‘this person wont accept payment and I don’t know another way to thank them so I’d like to do it through this program,’” said Bear.

The City’s policy is that residence shovel the sidewalk in front of their property within 48 hours of a snowfall, but that recognize that everyone isn’t always able to, due to health, work schedule, or age. Bear said this is why they appreciate neighbours pitching in to help out. This is especially important for the safety of pedestrians and mail carriers.

Nominations will resume in November.

asoloducha@panow.com

On Twitter: @alex_soloducha

by paNOW

Shoveling a modest task for snow warriors

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