After 38 years of hard work for the Portage la Prairie Water Department, Mike Sandney was recognized with a life membership award at the Manitoba Water and Wastewater Association's Annual Conference and Trade Show.

Sandney, who has been retired since early last year headed down highway #1 in February to Winnipeg's Victoria Inn for the award presentation.

"It was unexpected, especially after retiring there for the last 14 months, and I was really surprised," he says with a smile.

Sandney adds that he wouldn't have been in a position to receive an award without the help of many fantastic co-workers.

"Going into work was a good environment, and I enjoyed treating the water and learning the different technologies for treatment," the Portager continues. "Just knowing that you are sending safe potable water out to everybody was an award all by itself."

Sandney notes that in retirement, he has been enjoying life by spending time with his grandkids and doing odd jobs for his children at their homes.