The 2020 Matthew Claus Award has been awarded to Bob Bezushko. While most years see recipients join Administration for an evening of celebration, the Town of Stony Plain Long Service Awards and Recognition Banquet has been postponed until next year due to COVID-19.

With the Town for 38 years, Bob – better known to some as “the Arena Guy” – has gained a reputation for his commitment to maintaining Glenn Hall Centennial Arena, outdoor rinks, and sport fields around Stony Plain. Bob is known for his positive attitude and respect for his team. Described as a “steward of the community” by coworkers, Bob works around the clock to ensure residents have access to high quality facilities. Whether he is skipping coffee breaks to get work done on school grounds or spending his nights flooding outdoor rinks in -25 degree weather, Bob is always looking for ways to improve services.

“I am reminded of Matt when I see Bob and his always smiling face… I don’t think any of us can say that we have ever seen Bob in a foul mood. Whether he’s cruising on the Zamboni keeping the arena ice perfectly slick or out on a garden tractor cleaning up a sports field, Bob is smiling. Much like how Matt was, Bob has a positive attitude with any job he tackles and never lets any situation change this,” a co-worker shares.

In addition to providing residents with meticulously cared for facilities, Bob is actively involved in the community. Bob’s family has hosted 11 Shikaoi students since 2007 and both Bob and his wife Melissa joined the 2018 trip as chaperones. The family skate night hosted for the Shikaoi Exchange can be attributed to Bob, along with the free hot chocolate handed out from the concession. While Bob continues to go above and beyond for the Town, he is not one to boast about his accomplishments.

As shared by a co-worker, Bob is “a wholesome man with a giant heart that believes in family, community, and has a strong work ethic… he leads by example and demonstrates to his staff that the reason we do what we do is to make Stony Plain a great community to live in, not to seek out recognition for our actions.”

“It is our greatest pleasure to honour Bob with this year’s Matthew Claus Award,” says Town Manager Tom Goulden. “When you speak to members of his team, you will hear stories of leadership and a commitment to providing residents with the highest quality service. We are incredibly proud to work alongside Bob and are grateful for his dedication to public service and the respect he shows everyone he meets.” 

Matthew Claus, former Manager of Planning for the Town of Stony Plain, passed away on April 19, 2016. Matthew took pride in his work, treated his co-workers with respect, and believed in public service. The Town of Stony Plain founded the Matthew Claus Award to honour his legacy. The award is presented annually to an employee who demonstrates the qualities Matthew Claus was known and respected for.

Bob