Sparkes lights up Paradise Citizen of the Year awards

By Tyler Waugh, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Paradise Citizen of the Year Judy Sparkes receives her award from Mayor Patrick Martin during the Paradise Municipal Awards ceremony. Tyler Waugh photo

The Town of Paradise honoured some of its shining stars at the 2026 Municipal Awards last month as part of Volunteer Week celebrations.

A packed house at the Paradise Double Ice Complex auditorium honoured winners for their excellence in volunteering, the arts, athletics and business.

“It gives us opportunity to pause and recognize the individuals and organizations who help make our town such a strong and connected community,” said Mayor Patrick Martin. “Hosting our municipal awards during national volunteer week, makes this event even more meaningful.”

Judy Sparkes was named Citizen of the Year. Sparked was recognized for her commitment to a variety of causes that include Healing Rhythms for Veterans, the Paradise Centennial Lions Club, as a volunteer for the 2025 Canada Games, and volunteer with the Avalon Dragons fundraiser for breast cancer.

Sparkes, who was born and raised in Paradise before leaving to serve in the military at age 17, has been making her mark on the community since returning in 2016.

“There are a lot of people doing a lot of great work here in Paradise,” Sparkes said. “We do the things we do to make a difference for others where we can.”

Sparkes said she doesn’t feel like deserved the award.

“But it’s nice to be nominated and an honour to win,” she admitted. “I think if you ask anybody who gives their time it’s not about the acknowledgement.”

Sparkes said one of the Lions’ initiatives dear to her heart is the Circle of Life, which connects babies and children with seniors through regular visits to local seniors homes.

“You really see the joy that the seniors get when seeing the babies and you get to know everybody,” Sparkes said.

The Paradise Centennial Lions Club, for which she serves as president, was named the Volunteer Group of the Year, while Reece Antle was named Youth of the Year and Susan Pennell was named Volunteer of the Year.

David Sturge was named Inspired Artist of the Year, and the Salt Beef Junkies were named the Performing Artist of the Year.

Male Athlete of the Year was Gavin Baggs, while Lisa Froude was accorded Female Athlete of the Year, Avery Durdle as Junior Female Athlete of the Year, Kieran Cutler as Junior Male Athlete of the Year, Pat Slaney as Coach of The Year, and Chantal McDonald as Official of The Year.

Banished Brewing earned the nod in two categories – one for Business Excellence for companies with more than 15 employees, and one for Innovation and Resiliency.

The award for Business Excellence for firms with fewer than 15 employees went to Advantage RV Repair and Sales.

Cutline: Paradise Citizen of the Year Judy Sparkes receives her award from Mayor Patrick Martin during the Paradise Municipal Awards ceremony.