Now is your chance to help the community to recognize the people who make Golden what it is.
Nominations are open for the Bowle-Evans Award, which honours community volunteers in the mould and memory of Peter Bowle-Evans. Bowle-Evans provided leadership and vision in the creation of the road up Mount 7, and the development of the launch site. He was tireless in fundraising and building community support for this project, attracting volunteers ranging from hang gliders and road builders to local and provincial political leaders.
Without the development of this initial infrastructure, there would be no bike trails on Mount 7, and no viewpoint for those of us who are not brave enough to fly from the launch, which has made Golden a global destination for paragliding.
This award, which started in 2008 and is from Golden Area Initiatives, is presented at the Kicking Horse Country Chamber of Commerce Community Excellence Awards each year. Eligible nominees include volunteers with not-for-profit organizations of Kicking Horse Country (both Golden and Area A), who serve the community through the implementation of innovative ideas and approaches in response to community challenges and opportunities.
This award is intended to honour social innovators who are developing new ideas in order to address complex social and community issues that help the community continue to be a great place to live.
Examples of innovative approaches to community development activities may include: developing creative approaches to programs and activities, fostering community engagement and community spirit, or developing community resources and infrastructure.
Previous recipients of the award include: Roger Ross for his contributions to the Golden and District Golf Club; Merle and Mike McKnight for their contributions to the development of the Whitetooth Ski Area; Evelyn Keenleyside for her ongoing work in the social service sector; and Bill Usher for his ongoing work for arts and culture.
Nomination forms can be found online at www.goldenbritishcolumbia.com, or in print at the Golden Star office. Please submit completed forms with a “reason for nomination” paragraph by Sept. 16 to the Golden Area Initiatives office or to dwheelhouse@goldenbritishcolumbia.com.
