The Best Business and Volunteer Awards gala last Friday announced Citizen of the Year to be Lynne Parker, of Recreation Opportunities for Kids in Portage la Prairie. Parker describes her reaction to the award.

"Surprised," says Parker. "There are a lot of people, I think, who could have easily won this award, too, who put a lot of time and effort into the organizations and into our community. I couldn't ask for a better job. I love my job, so it's easy to just keep pushing forward and working with the kids."

(L-R) Portage Mayor Irvine Ferris, Lynne Parker, Chamber President Preston Meier, Portage MLA Ian Wishart

She says knowing she won the award makes her aware the community agrees with the efforts she's making. Parker adds she wants to move forward and do more, and with a staff member onboard now, she feels they will accomplish that over the next few years, noting some plans are already in the books.