More North Okanagan residents have been recognized for their community contributions.
Colin Mayes, Okanagan-Shuswap MP, recently presented 13 individuals with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal during a reception at Vernon’s Schubert Centre.
“The medals are awarded to recognize and celebrate significant achievements and extraordinary contributions Canadians have made for the benefit of their fellow citizens and their country,” said Mayes.
The recipients are:
Don Raffan, of Armstrong, is with Valley Auction and a supporter of many community organizations.
B.C. Dragoons member Sean Parker, of Vernon, has seen more operational overseas service than any other primary reservist and even most members of the regular force.
Ken Waldon, of Vernon, has been involved in Crime Stoppers, Friends of Fintry, All Saints Anglican Church, the Vernon Prostate Support Group and Mackie Lake House.
Jan Waldon, of Vernon, has volunteered with Crime Stoppers, Friends of Fintry, All Saints Anglican Church, the Vernon Prostate Support Group and Mackie Lake House.
Bill Inglis, of Vernon, is a veteran of the Second World War. He works at least 36 hours a week for the Vernon Royal Canadian Legion branch.
Frederick Musselwhite, of Vernon, has been an active volunteer with St. John Ambulance for more than 13 years.
Henry Sundquist, of Coldstream, is executive director of the Kindale Development Association in Armstrong.
Chris Shewchuk, of Vernon, has spent the past 15 years involved in the air cadet program. He commits his holidays to cadet summer training centres.
Merv Churchill, of Falkland, has been involved as a volunteer with the Falkland Stampede since 1961.
Dave Burge, of Vernon, is currently finishing his 49th year of volunteering as a leader with Scouts Canada.
Helen Sidney, of Vernon, is a retired teacher and the dessert and pastry chef at the Schubert Centre. She has contributed 35,000 hours in this volunteer position.
Al Thorlakson, of Coldstream, is the owner of Tolko Industries and a supporter of community activities.
Sarah McLean, of Vernon, has made Powerhouse Theatre her second home and has dedicated countless volunteer hours there since 1964.
“The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee is an opportunity to celebrate our traditions, history, symbols, values and institutions, particularly the role of the Crown in Canada,” said Mayes.
