Presentation of the Alberta Historical Resources Foundation Heritage Awards (November 30, 2012)
“It’s very important to remember that heritage preservation is much more than paying tribute to our past, it is about building strong communities for our future …” This was one of the key messages of Honourable Heather Klimchuk, Minister of Culture, as she paid tribute to the accomplishments of eight recipients of the 2012 Alberta Historical Resources Foundation (AHRF) Heritage Awards.
On the evening of November 30th, the historic McKay Avenue School in Edmonton was bustling with excitement, pride and nostalgia as Minister Klimchuk joined AHRF board, staff and guests in celebrating the achievements of heritage community members.
In keeping with the theme of honouring excellence, the Minister first presented a plaque to Dr. Carolee Pollock in recognition of her nine years of service with AHRF as board member (since 2004) and Chair (since 2009). As the night unfolded, Dr. Pollock then proceeded with the presentations of the AHRF heritage awards. Board member Joe Friedel graciously handed out the plaques.
Delegates from the communities of High River and St. Albert gathered to celebrate their successful conservation efforts, which earned them Heritage Conservation awards. These were presented to the Town of High River for excellence in the conservation of the Canadian Pacific Railway Station and the Arts and Heritage Foundation of St. Albert for outstanding achievement in the conservation of their two grain elevators (the Alberta Grain Company Grain Elevator and the Alberta Wheat Pool Grain Elevator).
The community of Lacombe was beaming with pride as they took home two plaques this year: a Heritage Conservation award went to the Lacombe and District Historical Society for their commitment to the conservation of the Lacombe Blacksmith Shop and the Municipal Heritage Preservation award went to the City of Lacombe for their successful multi-phased Heritage Management Program.
AHRF was also honored to recognize Catherine Cole with a Heritage Awareness award for her excellent work on Piece by Piece: the GWG Story.
Last but not the least, the stories of Outstanding Achievement award recipients filled the evening with fond memories of family life and dedication to conserving their community’s heritage. The Outstanding Achievement awards were presented to Kermith Anderson of Scandia, Judith Ann Carleton of Blackfalds and Jack Manson of the Mulhurst area.
It is through the tireless efforts of these heritage community members that we and others continue to enjoy Alberta’s rich heritage.
On behalf of the AHRF board and staff of Alberta Culture, congratulations to all award recipients!
Additional information on award recipients as well as photographs, audio clips and videos of the awards ceremony are available at Alberta Culture’s newsroom.
Written by: Carina Naranjilla, Grant Program Coordinator
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