A number of guests including local dignitaries as well as communications and representatives from/of provincial and federal politicians were on hand on Wednesday, May 29 for Nick Chernoff's induction as Castlegar's 2012 Citizen of the Year.
A broadly smiling Mr. Chernoff (longtime operator of Trowelex Rentals) was the centre of attention and accepted the honour with grace and humility.
Speaker after speaker, including friends, colleagues, and employees made reference to Nick's big heart and willingness to help others.
Brian Bogle, emcee for the evening and member of the Knights of Columbus which orchestrates the choosing of the Citizen of the Year, mentioned Nick's reaction when notified of his selection for the 2012 distinction, "You couldn't find someone better than me?"
Above photos: Chernoff family, and Nick accepting congratulations from constituency assistant Gail Hunnisett on behalf of MP Alex Atamanenko.
When Mr. Chernoff stepped up to the microphone, after expressing heartfelt gratitude, he related a story from his youth. At the age of 18 he had been in a situation where he was able to save man's life. Cool under pressure, he did just that. As with so many of Nick's good works over the years, he had acted with no thought of potential accolades, only because he saw a pressing need.
"This," he said of the honour bestowed that evening, "is my reward."