The City of Red Deer honoured 36 individuals and the Red Deer Royals last week at the annual Mayor’s Recognition Awards Presentation Ceremony.

“These awards embody the great community spirit that Red Deerians have,” said Mayor Morris Flewwelling. “The efforts and accomplishments of the recipients have enhanced the image of our community or have made a significant contribution to the City.”

The Mayor’s Recognition Awards were established in 1990 to recognize and celebrate achievements and volunteer service by individuals, teams or groups. Recipients were recognized in the following categories including Athletics, Citizenship, Fine and Performing Arts and the Mayor’s Special Award.

Lyle Keewatin Richards was honoured as this year’s recipient of the Mayor’s Special Award, the highest possible recognition from the City of Red Deer. Keewatin Richards was recognized for his enduring and visionary leadership in diversity and aboriginal affairs.

Twelve Red Deerians were honoured in the Athletics category including Sarah Jo Buffalo, Sheng-Chung (Michael) Huang, Wolfgang Janssen, Craig Johnston, Courtney Johnston, Monica Johnston, Jessica Kalyan, Devon Langelaar, Thomasina Payne, Birchmans Pereira, Tri (Terry) Tran and Conner Trepanier.

Fifteen Red Deerians were awarded the Citizenship award for continuous voluntary service. These recipients include Lynn Anderson, Tom Dawson, Jody Dunn, Ruth Eastman, Gordon Fenwick, Mary Francis, Leanne Goulet, Bradd Helling, Jean Johnson, Chris Kirbyson, John McDonald, Vern Oak, Rich Roberts, Ross Smith and Marlene Sveinson.

Awarded for Citizenship for distinguished voluntary service were Joyce Acciaroli, Pat Bowman, Lesley Caddy, Georgina Klaudt, Gordon McNaughton and Ethel Suarez.

Two individuals were awarded for Fine and Performing Arts including Patti Morris, Dr. Dale Wheeler as well as The Red Deer Royals.

– Fawcett