Community Volunteers recognized with service awards at 2026 Levee
MLA Michelle Conroy joined Mayor Adam Lordon and City Council in recognizing those who received the Community Service Awards for Volunteers.
Mayor Adam Lordon and City Council recognized and honoured eight community volunteers with Community Service Awards for Volunteers at the 2026 Levee.
Nominees must have a minimum of 15 years of dedicated voluntary service in one or more of the following categories:
Education and Learning
Business and Commercial
Politics
Community Service for the Sick, Elderly, or Disabled
Religion
Recreation and Athletics
Heritage and Culture
Communication and Media
Community Development
Candidates should also have made a notable impact in at least one additional category. Their efforts must have clearly benefited the community as a whole.
Those honoured are:
Mayor Adam Lordon and Anne Bracken.
Anne Bracken
Anne Bracken is a lifelong champion of Miramichi’s downtown and a true pillar of the Historic Chatham Business District. For years, she has poured her energy into building a stronger, more connected community both as a dedicated entrepreneur and as one of the district’s most reliable volunteers. Anne has served on numerous boards and committees, always showing up with steady leadership, practical wisdom, and a “let’s get it done” spirit.
What sets Anne apart is how naturally she gives back. She’s consistently the first to lend a hand, the person who notices what needs doing before anyone asks, and someone who makes others feel welcomed and supported. Her contributions have helped shape the heart of downtown Chatham not just through her business presence, but through the countless hours she has invested behind the scenes to keep local initiatives moving forward.
As Anne begins to slow down and step back from the pace she has carried for so long, this nomination is a meaningful way to recognize the legacy she has built. Her impact is lasting, her service has been selfless, and her love for downtown has made the community better for everyone who lives, works, and gathers here.
Nominated by Kim Harris
Mayor Adam Lordon and Marilyn Briggs
Marilyn Briggs
She has vounteered for over 20 years doing a breakfast program at the Nelson School. For over 30 years she has been involved with Miramichi Girl Guides and presently holding the leader role and serves as the Area Commissioner as well as Ember Leader.
Marilyn has also been a member of Catholic Women’s League for years and continues as treasurer and helps with lunches at funeral receptions and works as well.
She is always ready to help the homeless and support causes.
Nominated by Maureen LeBlanc
Mayor Adam Lordon and Bernard (Bunny) Dempsey
Bernard (Bunny) Dempsey
Bernard (Bunny) Dempsey has devoted decades of his life to the service of his community, consistently giving his time, energy, and leadership to initiatives that supported children, families, and civic life. His volunteer contributions span education, youth development, health and wellness, faith-based service, and community remembrance.
One of Bunny’s most meaningful contributions was being the founder of Camp Sheldrake, where he helped create local employment opportunities while fostering an environment filled with positive, lasting memories for generations of children. His commitment ensured the camp was not only a place of recreation, but also a cornerstone of community pride and opportunity.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Bunny implemented the Jack Rabbit Program in partnership with the CCSC, promoting physical fitness and healthy lifestyles for both children and adults. At a time when structured community wellness programs were less common, this initiative encouraged participation, inclusion, and confidence across age groups.
His dedication to youth extended further through his service as a Big Brother in the early 1990s, where he provided mentorship, stability, and guidance during formative years. In parallel, Bunny served for many years as a religion teacher, educating hundreds of Grade 5 students and helping instill values of compassion, responsibility, and respect. Through this role, he shaped not only religious understanding but also character and community awareness.
A long-standing and active member of the Knights of Columbus, Bunny consistently supported charitable initiatives and community outreach efforts, embodying the organization’s commitment to service, faith, and fraternity.
From the early 2000s onward, Bunny also took on an important role in civic remembrance, visiting local schools each year on Remembrance Day to read poems and engage students in reflection. Through these visits, he helped preserve historical awareness, honor those who served, and instill respect and gratitude in younger generations.
In addition, Bunny has been an active participant in civic life as a long-standing member of the Liberal Party, reflecting his belief in community engagement, public service, and democratic participation.
Across decades, Bernard (Bunny) Dempsey has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to service. His contributions have strengthened community bonds, supported youth development, preserved shared history, and modeled the values of generosity, responsibility, and leadership. His legacy is defined not by a single act, but by a lifetime of meaningful and sustained volunteerism.
Nominated by Kim Gorman
Jeff Morris
Jeff Morris was recognized for his dedication and commitment to minor hockey, baseball and softball for youth in Miramichi. His list of involvement includes:
BOARDS:
Miramichi Minor Hockey, Greater Miramichi Panthers Association, Miramichi Minor Baseball
• Current Tournament Director for Miramichi Minor Hockey
• Past vice-president.
• Hockey New Brunswick Volunteer of the Year recipient 2020-2021.
• Runs Ivan Matchett, Salmon tournament, 2 panthers cups and Timbit tournaments.
• Current Tournament Director for Greater Miramichi Panthers Hockey
• Has volunteered to run the 1st ever female hockey tournament in Miramichi in addition to other minor hockey tournament commitments.
COACHING (Baseball):
• Has volunteered coaching with Miramichi Minor Baseball for past 10 years (at times multiple teams in the same season)
• Coaches Team New Brunswick boys baseball. Was U15 Development assistant coach in 2024-2025 season. U15 assistant coach in 2025-2026 season
• Assistant coach to U15AAA baseball this year, has won 2 provincial championships and one elimination with this group
• Helps coaches U9 and U14 Girls as time permits outside board duties and AAA coaching
• School: Coaches Gretna Green School Softball
• Current Treasurer for Minor Baseball, also as a volunteer takes on running canteens and summer students
COACHING (Hockey):
• Numerous coaching positions in girls and boy’s hockey programs in the past 9 consecutive years.
• Currently: Assistant coaching with U15AA girls, U15AA boys, U9 Tier 2 girls.
OTHER
• On a year-round basis, Jeff contributes on average 35+ hours per week volunteering for these committees and organizations
• As a businessman he donates to these and other non-profit organizations yearly as well as community events
Nominated by Terry Doyle
Mayor Adam Lordon and Shaun O’Reilly
Shaun O’Reilly
For nearly two decades, my father Shaun O’Reilly has served as the President of the Miramichi Natural History museum, a volunteer position, which I view as an extraordinary and sustained commitment to community service, education, and historical preservation for the city of Miramichi. As a teacher, instead of spending his summer vacation taking trips or relaxing in the sun, he spends his days maintaining the museum, managing donations, securing funding, supporting summer student staff, and ensuring the museum remains a welcoming and relevant space for the public in the summer months, respecting and highlighting the vast history of Miramichi and surrounding areas. It’s also worth mentioning that he was instrumental in the tough decision of having to move from its original building, securing its current space and transforming it into the quaint, organized and well-maintained museum we see today. Due to his passion for preserving the history of Miramichi and long-standing volunteer service as president of the museum, I believe this reflects not only personal dedication, but a profound commitment to the cultural and educational wellbeing of the city. Because of this, I can’t think of anyone else more deserving of this community service award.
Nominated by – Allison O’Reilly
Mayor Adam Lordon and Janiska and Rudolphe Rousselle
Janiska and Rudolphe Rousselle
For more than four decades, Janiska and Rodolphe Rousselle have been two key figures in the community life of Miramichi. True pillars have helped build, support, and energize countless initiatives that have shaped our community as we know it today.
As early as 1982, they were part of the founding group that worked tirelessly to establish a school and a community center in the region, Carrefour Beausoliel. Since then, they have never stopped getting involved: organizing events, supporting cultural activities, participating in committees, assisting during major gatherings, creating projects for youth, and maintaining a constant presence in local activities.
Their commitment stands out for its unwavering generosity: for years, they have accompanied students, supported teachers, participated in fundraising efforts, and offered help to families. Even today, they remain invaluable supporters for seniors and vulnerable individuals, whom they visit or accompany as volunteers, always with the same dedication.
What makes them unique is that they are an inseparable duo. For over 40 years, they have worked side by side, never seeking recognition, driven by a deep desire to help and make a difference.
Nominating Janiska and Rodolphe Rousselle for the 2025 Community Service Award means recognizing two people who have left—and continue to leave—a lasting and essential mark at the heart of Miramichi. Two pillars. Two builders. Two hearts devoted to serving others.
Nominated by Line Thibodeau
Mayor Adam Lordon and Gena Skidd
Gena Skidd
Gena Skidd is a very active volunteer in our community. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Chatham where she has many responsibilities. She volunteers for Rotary Radio Bingo and distributes Bingo Cards.
Gena is also involved in the Rotary Trip Draws. She is a major ticket seller where the proceeds are contributed to many community groups.
Gena volunteers with the Rotary Community Kitchen where she helps to prepare a meal for the less fortunate once a month.
Gena volunteers with St. Michael the Archangel Parish by scheduling the weekend mass collection counters and is a counter herself.
Gena is a volunteer for Percy’s Place Hospice and Percy’s Place Boutique.
Gena volunteers with the Josee Foundation where she helps to organize social events to raise money for the cause.
As an active member of the Golf and Country Club, Gena manages a Ladies Group during the season and is very involved in organizing events for this group.
Gena is a retired schoolteacher and a very active member of the community.
I feel that Gena Skidd is a very deserving recipient of the Volunteer Award.
Nominated by Norma Turnbull
2025 Retirees
City retirees were also recognized for their service with the City at the event held Thursday, January 1st, 2026 at the Knights of Coumbus Hall in Chatham. They are:
Greg McLaughlin
The City of Miramichi proudly recognizes Greg McLaughlin for his dedicated service. Greg began his career in 1996 as a Caretaker with the City’s Recreation Department and later that year joined the Department of Public Works. In 2003, he advanced to the role of Machine Operator, and in 2015, he returned to the position of Caretaker, serving at the Miramichi Police Department until his retirement in February 2025. We thank Greg for his nearly three decades of commitment and contributions to our community.
Micheal Noel
The City of Miramichi proudly recognizes Micheal Noel for his exceptional dedication and leadership. Micheal served as City Solicitor from October 2007 to June 23, 2013, and began his journey as City Manager on June 24, 2013, a role he held with distinction until his retirement in August 2025. Your commitment and contributions have made a lasting impact on our city and community.
Lorri McEachern
The City of Miramichi proudly recognizes Lorri McEachern for her remarkable career in law enforcement and her dedication to our community. Lorri began her career with the Metropolitan Toronto Police Service in July 1990, serving in various sections including Drug Enforcement, Homicide, and as a Uniformed Patrol Officer. In July 1997, Lorri joined the Miramichi Police Force, where she was assigned to general patrol duties. In 2000, she became a K-9 Officer, a role she held for an impressive 17.5 years. Lorri was promoted to Corporal in 2007, and in 2019, advanced to Sergeant, leading a platoon in the Patrol Division. In 2021, she assumed the position of Chief Reader, serving with distinction until her retirement in September 2025. Your professionalism, leadership, and commitment have left a lasting impact on the Miramichi Police Force and the community you served.
Heidi Hardy
The City of Miramichi proudly recognizes Heidi Hardy for her dedication and service. Heidi joined the City in February 2024 as an Office Clerk, Front Desk in the Finance Department. She continued in this role for nearly two years, providing support and professionalism until her retirement in October 2025. We thank Heidi for her contributions and commitment to the City of Miramichi.