The County of Stettler held its community service awards night at the end of February to recognize residents who have given back to their respective towns.
“I think it’s just a good way for the community to show their thanks for all the hard work that goes on. It just creates better community spirit,” said Phil Holton, the night’s MC and retired director of recreation for the county.
Community service awards were given by representatives from Endiang/Byemoor, Stettler, Donalda, Botha, and Big Valley.
The awards are decided by the respective towns, while the two big awards – the Stettler Dodge Community Service Award and the ATCO Electric Arts, Culture, and Heritage Award – are decided by a sub-committee of the county regional recreation board.
“I think it’s important that people are acknowledged, especially when they put in a lot of work,” Holton said.
Each presenter talked about the merits of the award winner and why they were nominated. Some of the winners sounded very surprised when they won.
“If there’s an award for sneaky family and friends, there are two tables back there that won it,” said Joan Hennel after she won the Stettler Dodge Community Service Award.
The evening was rounded out by a roast beef dinner and entertainment by Alex Salmon and friends.
See more one photo of the event in this week’s paper.