Citizen Recognition Awards and First Ever Key to Township

March 25, 2025 – The Township of Russell is proud to announce that 12 dedicated community members have received Citizen Recognition Awards for their exceptional volunteerism and contributions through the Catch the Ace (CTA) initiative. In addition, the Township has awarded its first-ever Key to the Township to Doug and Cindy Anthony in recognition of their outstanding leadership and commitment to our community and beyond.

The recipients of the Citizen Recognition Awards have demonstrated unwavering dedication to the Catch the Ace initiative, a project spearheaded by the Kin Club of Russell. Since its inception in 2017, the CTA team has worked in collaboration with the Township and organizations across Eastern Ontario, supporting over 30 vital charities. Their efforts have resulted in more than $5 million in prizes awarded and, more importantly, $4.6 million in funds raised for local charities, benefiting the entire community.

“These individuals have selflessly devoted countless hours—far beyond a typical volunteer commitment—to ensure the success of this initiative,” said Mike Tarnowski, Mayor of Russell Township. “Their work not only provides critical funding for local organizations but also raises awareness for deserving charities, strengthening our community in immeasurable ways.”

• Karine Boucher
• Dan Carbonnell
• Luis Da Silva
• Cherie Gambell
• Jim Gray
• Libo Habets
• Diane Hayes
• Valorie McCowan
• Bill McInnis
• Sheila Peckford
• Reuben Tait
• Len Trembley

Key to The Township Award

In addition to recognizing these 12 remarkable volunteers, the Township is honoured to present the first-ever Key to the Township to Doug and Cindy Anthony. Their leadership within the Kin Club of Russell has had a transformative impact on the community. Under their guidance, the Catch the Ace initiative has become the second largest in Ontario, bringing positive attention to Russell Township while generating crucial support for local charities.

Beyond Catch the Ace, Doug and Cindy have been instrumental in leading numerous community projects, including:

• The Russell Sports Dome: which they helped fundraise $380,000 in just over a year to support the development of this fantastic recreational facility.
• Poutmasters Fishing Derby: Their annual participation since 2014 fosters community spirit, family values, and promotes our local natural resources.
• Fort Mac We’ve Got Your Back: They rallied support for those affected by the Fort McMurray, Alberta fires, showcasing our community's compassion and solidarity.
• The Russell Signs Project: Added beautiful signage, amounting $130,000.00, welcoming people to our community.
• Marchons Pour Jonathan Butterfly Mile: Helped raise awareness and funds, amounting over $60,000 for EB (Epidermolysis Bullosa) research, uniting our community behind a poignant cause.
• Jonathan Pitre Park: Raised over $6,000 for the creation of our only fully accessible park.
• Supporting the Recreation Complex with almost $67,000 raised so far.
• Currently working with the Township to develop a community storage project for over 1/2 million dollars.

Each of these contributions fosters a strong sense of community and bring people together.

“Doug and Cindy Anthony exemplify the spirit of community service,” said Mayor Mike Tarnowski. “They are tireless advocates for our Township, always putting others before themselves. Their humility, generosity, and leadership have left a lasting legacy, and we are proud to honour them with the first-ever Key to the Township.” 

The Citizen Recognition Awards and the Key to the Township were presented at the Council Meeting on March 24, 2025. The Township invites all residents to join in congratulating these outstanding individuals who have made a profound difference in our community.

King Charles III’s Coronation Medal 

On Wednesday March 26, 2025, Doug Anthony will also be receiving the King Charles III’s Coronation Medal from MPP Stéphane Sarrazin. Canada awards this medal to individuals who have made a significant contribution to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region or community of Canada.

For more information on citizen recognition program, visit our Awards and Recognition page.