Olympic and royal medals

Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett, in her column, invites residents to nominate someone for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

“Six decades ago, a young Queen began her reign, one focused on service to others. Her Majesty has experienced and seen many hardships, but also many joys. Through it all, she has remained dedicated to serving the Crown and the people of the Commonwealth.” — Governor General David Johnston.

As MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin, I have the honour and privilege of nominating four members of our riding to receive a commemorative medal for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. The medals will be presented to approximately 60,000 Canadians, of which 762 will be awarded to British Columbians.

Do you know an individual who has helped build up our community? Someone highly respected, who has distinguished his or herself through sustained contribution? I want to hear from you!

Please send me your nominations and I will carefully go through the applications to select four exceptional members of the Cariboo-Chilcotin to be considered for a Diamond Jubilee medal. Send your nominations to my office via mail or e-mail and visit www.gg.ca/diamondjubilee for a full outline of eligibility criteria. Please have your nominations in by Sept. 15. Mailing addresses are as follows:

• 100 Mile House Office: 7-530 Horse Lake Rd., P.O. Box 95, 100 Mile House, B.C., V0K 2E0 or phone 250-395-3916.

• Williams Lake Office: #301-383 Oliver St., Williams Lake, B.C., V2G 1M4, phone 250-305-3800 or toll free 1-866-305-3804, or e-mail Donna.Barnett.MLA@leg.bc.ca.

In the spirit of awarding much deserved recognition to exceptional members of my riding, I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Gabriel Bergen of 100 Mile House for bringing home a silver Olympic medal in men’s rowing. As part of an eight-man team, this was Bergen’s first Olympics with the men’s eight crew. Bergen has rowed for Canada in five different world competitions, as well as running in the 2010 Olympic Winter Games Torch Relay. Way to go, Gabe! And thank you for representing 100 Mile House in London!

Donna Barnett is the Liberal MLA for the Cariboo-Chilcotin.

Williams Lake Tribune