By Chris Hornby
The Cariboo-Chilcotin’s best kept secrets and resources are its people and their talents.
It was with great honour and pleasure that I watched Mary Forbes and Dave Dickson of Williams Lake receive their First Nation’s designed medals for B.C. Achievement at the beautiful Government House overlooking the ocean at Rockland Avenue in Victoria, March 14.
Friends, family, dignitaries, teachers, had all gathered there to witness the 32 recipients of the awards.
Recipients were of all ages, from high school students to a lady in her ninth decade, and from all religions, cultures, ethnic backgrounds.
Recipients came from Williams Lake, Dease Lake, Prince George, Fruitvale, Lady Smith, Salt Spring Island to name a few.
Awards were presented for people working in many different areas of community service from helping the National Institute for the Blind, autism, heritage, theatre, First Nations, language, KidSport, children’s cancer volunteers, community spirit and more.
The Hon. Judith Guichon, B.C. Lieutenant Governor B.C. said the number of volunteer hours provided by the award recipients could not be counted, but is valued in millions of dollars saved.
Tea was served after the awards were presented. It was delightful to mix with the recipients from all over the province of B.C.
Proud we are as citizens of Williams Lake to have Mary Forbes and Dave Dickson bring recognition and honour to our city and region for tireless hours of work and to their families who support them in their community efforts.