Two members of the Athabasca community have been recognized with Diamond Jubilee medals.
As part of the Diamond Jubilee year celebrating the Queenís 60-year reign, 60,000 medals are being distributed to individuals across Canada, including 663 Albertans, who have made a notable contribution to their community or society.
Jim Woodward, former Athabasca County manager, and Sylvia Christiansen, president and co-founder of Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS), were both honoured with medals, awarded by the Honourable Col. Donald S. Ethell.
Athabasca-Sturgeon-Redwater Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and Minister of Education Jeff Johnson was also in attendance.
The medals were presented last Wednesday in Lac La Biche.
Six recipients from Fort McMurray were reportedly unable to attend due to the weather, as well as one from Athabasca, according to the Office of the Lieutenant Governor.
Asked who she thought nominated her, Christiansen said, ìI have no idea. I didnít believe it was real so I didnít tell anybody about it, but itís a privilege.î
Col. Ethell made a number of remarks prior to presenting the medals, after which God Save The Queen was sung. A reception was held after the ceremony.
Woodward was unable to attend, but his former executive assistant, Arlene Milot, accepted the medal on his behalf.
Woodward has actively participated in municipal government work since 1980 and has previously been honoured with the Order of Athabasca University and the R. W. Hay Award for excellence in municipal administration.
A member of the Athabasca Rotary Club, Woodward was honoured with the Paul Harris Fellowship, which was awarded to him by the club.
Master of Ceremonies Tim Marriott described Christiansen as having been, ìa tireless advocate for abandoned and abused dogs her entire life.î
ìWe have a great team, so as far as Iím concerned itís for all of the volunteers at SCARS. Itís nice to be recognized. Weíve put a lot of work into it, and weíre one of the largest rescue organizations of its kind,î said Christiansen.
SCARS currently has 200 dogs in its care, according to Christiansen, but also houses many cats.
ìItís a lot of work, but itís worthwhile,î she said, making note of the 100 volunteers that are regularly helping out at her facility.
ìThereís always a need for an animal shelter.î
Woodward could not be reached for comment before press time, but Marriott described him as ìa well respected individual within the area of governance and municipal administration.î
According to ceremonial literature, ìthe medal is a symbolic statement of the enduring relationship between Canada and The Crown.î
In a written statement, Premier Alison Redford thanked the medal recipients ìfor stepping forward with courage, passion and leadership to help strengthen our provinceî.
ìIn your own special ways, you have made Alberta better for today and tomorrow,î stated the Premier.
ìThe Diamond Jubilee Medal is a way to recognize those among us who have made a lasting contribution to the quality of life we are fortunate to enjoy as Albertans and Canadians,î said Lieutenant Governor Ethell in a press statement from the Alberta Government. ìThese recipients share the same dedication to duty and commitment to service that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has demonstrated throughout her reign. They have truly earned the thanks of their fellow Canadians for all that they have done on our behalf.î
