by Kevin McIsaac

On Thursday, February 20th a dinner at the Best Western saw local businessman John Douglas of Hillbillytrout honoured with the Business Excellence in Customer Service award for 2002 and Evelyn Cutts honoured as Fernie’s Citizen of Year. Chamber of Commerce VP Judith Johhannsson MC’ed the event, greeting all and welcoming new members to the Chamber.

First to be introduced was John Douglas, known best locally as JD, of Hillbillytrout. A litany of praise from JD’s fishing customers was read aloud to rousing applause. It was obvious from the letters that people that had fished with JD were impressed not just with his skill as a fisher, but also as a professional representative of our community:

“Exemplifies the true spirit of Fernie – such a unique, fun and energetic town.”

“A truly professional guide, while making my party feel like we were part of the Fernie family. His devotion for his clients and the environment was truly first class.”

Up next was Evelyn Cutts the 2002 Fernie Citizen of the Year. Introduced by Mayor Randal Macnair, Mrs. Cutts obviously needed no introduction to the crowd attending. For anyone that’s been living up in the cave with the Griz for the past 20 years, Mrs. Cutts is a third generation Fernie-ite. And while those of us newer to Fernie are familiar with Mrs. Cutts as our former Mayor, I was taken aback at the list of organizations and causes to which she has devoted herself tirelessly: Girl Guides; Figure Skating; Minor Hockey; Isabella Dicken PAC; Chamber of Commerce; Ghostriders; School Board; Rotary; Victims Services; United Church; and Fernie’s first woman mayor. All this done while operating two businesses and raising four children.

Here a just a couple of the many testimonials that were submitted on her behalf. All of them evidence of how deeply Mrs. Cutts’ drive, patience and integrity have affected so many in the community:

“Her contributions to the School Board and the City of Fernie Council have helped to sustain or position in the Elk Valley and East Kootenay’s over the past several years.”

“She has liaised at all levels to make the voice of the people in Fernie heard in our province on so many important issues such as [the] School District Amalgamation, Boundary Expansion, Health Care, [and] Tourism to mention a few.”

“With her humble smile and caring way, I really don’t think she knows how special she is to everyone she touches.”
The list of testimonials was followed by a standing ovation for a woman who’s energy and spirit of giving has affected so many in our community. Congratulations Evelyn.

“I can think of no one more deserving.”