The City of Duncan recognized three of its outstanding citizens and the work they did in 2016 at a special meeting of city council on Dec. 5.
Music teacher Gia Jane, who has spent countless hours helping local artists during her career, was presented with the 2016 Perpetual Arts Trophy at the standing-room only event in council chambers.
Long-time volunteer Marina Stanko, who includes 10 years as president of the Clements Centre Society as part of her long list of volunteer activities, won the 2016 Scroll of Honour Award.
Glen Martin, a local sports figure who has had a long career in both golf and soccer, received the 2016 Perpetual Trophy for Excellence and Sportsmanship.
Jane was on the verge of tears after her name was called as an award winner.
She said she was “honoured” to be chosen for the work she has done in the community.
“I’m so happy my friends and colleagues are here tonight to share this with me,” she said as her voice filled with emotion.
Jane was born into a musical family in Regina and studied music and teaching at the University of Regina.
In 1989, Jane moved to Duncan and began teaching music in the French immersion program, and has worked in that role since.
“Throughout her years as a teacher, she has shown drive, devotion and dedication to children’s development,” according to a release from the city.
“Jane has worked tirelessly to inspire thousands of students to excel in amazing musical performances and helped them realize outstanding achievements in the arts.”
Stanko said Duncan has been a “wonderful place” to live since her family moved here from Revelstoke in 1964.
“I’ve always found that volunteering is a wonderful way to get to know people and the real wealth in the community,” she said when she received her award.
Stanko worked as a teacher in Duncan until she retired in 1995 and began to focus more on volunteerism in the community.
Among her many activities in the community, Stanko has volunteered on the executive of the Cowichan Valley Special Olympics.
Stanko has also worked to successfully initiate a number of joint projects between the CCS and the Kinsmen and Kinette Clubs of Duncan.
“Stanko’s colleagues describe her as a humble person who does not speak of her own contributions, and as someone that can be counted upon when problems arise to be a calm voice of reason during difficult times,” said a release from the city.
Martin thanked his family and friends for being present at his award presentation.
He has won many junior and men’s club championships in golf over the years and has a long career as a soccer coach.
He has been coach of the Cowichan Dynamo Gold Team, the Cowichan Dynamo U16 which won the provincial championships in 2002-03 and the Cowichan Dynamo U16 that won the provincial championships in 2004-05.
In 2005, Martin began coaching the Division 1 Men’s Team, which won the Jackson Cup four times in the last six years, qualified for the provincials every year for the last seven and won the league the last two years in a row.
“Martin is truly dedicated to his team and on Nov. 24, he participated in his 1,100th straight practice and game, even though he had experienced two heart attacks and pneumonia during that time,” a city release said.