April 24 was a very specialday for Greg Bowes, his wife, Darlene, and his sons, Scott and Marty.
Bowes, a long time Neilburg resident, was singled out to receive an award from the Rivers West District for Sport, Culture and Recreation as their Recreation Volunteer of the Year.Theawards banquet is held in a different location each year. This spring the annual event was scheduled to take place in Neilburg, so Bowes was especially pleased to receiverecognition in his home town.
The Neilburg Recreation Board nominated Bowes for the award. Bowes was born and raised in Macklin but came to Neilburg 40 years ago, in 1973. He enjoys all sports and, according to his nomination package"was active in hockey, slo-pitch, golf and curling. Even though he was busy participating, he still took time to volunteer his time to coaching, managing and organizing sports activities."
"Bowes was also a minor hockey coach and manager for 10 years. He was a minor hockey referee for many years and received the Andy Coulter Award, which is presented to someone who dedicates their time to the improvement of minor hockey. He was instrumental in starting minor league baseball and coached minor baseball teams for eight years. He is an avid golfer and volunteered his time to become a member of the Manitou Lake Regional Park Board for three years. This board is responsible for the care and maintenance of the local golf course."
Bowes has been an active member of the Neilburg Recreation Board for 15 years. He was a leader in creating the recreation board's livestock program. This involves the board purchasing bred heifers and then Bowes would find livestock producers who would agree to board the animals without charge. The calves produced from the animals are then sold with the proceeds going to help fund various board projects.
Bowes is always available to help with any project in the arena, curling rink or on the ball diamonds. He will readily volunteer his time to drive the Zamboni or to install the curling ice. He was a leader in creating a stick curling group.
In addition to all of the above, Bowes has also been a member of the Neilburg village council for the last four years. He was a volunteer firefighter for 29 years and was the fire chief for five of those years. He was also a volunteer ambulance attendant for 10 years.
By his actions, Bowes has demonstrated he understands the importance of volunteering in a small community to help create a comfortable and enjoyable environment, the nomination states. He is a leader and an organizer and he has had a big influence on the success of the community. A team player, Bowes is always willing to help out, no matter what the project is.
After his award was presented - a painting by St. Walburg artist, Susan Velder - he gave a heartfelt,emotional acceptance speech. Not one to brag about his accomplishments, Bowes was somewhat overwhelmed at the honour bestowed upon him by his peers, although he was jovial,as always. There is no doubt Bowes will continue to volunteer and, in so doing, will further endeavour to make the community of Neilburg a better place.
