Ladysmith resident Kathy Holmes (centre) receives her 2013 BC Community Achievement Award from Lieut.-Gov. Judith Guichon (right) and Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Ida Chong March 14 during a ceremony in Victoria. When Holmes received her award, the citation read: “Kathy Holmes is known as a tower of strength in Ladysmith for her volunteer support of the community, the arts and business. As president of the Ladysmith Waterfront Arts Centre Gallery, she has helped the gallery achieve greater recognition and community support, and she also works with the local Arts Council. Kathy is dedicated to the initiatives of the Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce, including its events Oktoberfest, Spirit Awards and the annual Ladysmith Market. She inspires others to help on community events such as Arts on the Avenue, Paddle Fest and Ladysmith Days, to name a few. Kathy makes things happen and always places her community ahead of herself.”