Colin Mayes, MP -- Okanagan - Shuswap - MP Colin Mayes Recognizes Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Recipients in Vernon

July 24, 2012

VERNON: MP Colin Mayes was pleased to host a reception at the Schubert Centre to recognize thirteen deserving recipients of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal. Special guest, MP Richard Harris and his wife Anne from the riding of Cariboo-Prince George also joined the ceremony to recognize the local recipients. 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.

Colin awarded medals to:

Don Raffan of Armstrong

Don dedicates his free time selflessly to charity auctions and events throughout the area. In 2010 he was named Armstrong Citizen of the Year.

Master Warrant Officer Sean David Parker of Vernon

Sean Parker's service with the BC Dragoons began in May 1986. Since that time, he has seen more operational overseas service than any other Primary Reservist and even most members of the Regular force.

Kenneth Waldon of Vernon

Ken’s volunteer Service includes: Crimestoppers, Friends of Fintry, All Saints Anglican Church, Vernon Prostate Support Group, Mackie Lake House, and BC Winter Games. Received the 2012 Vernon Good Citizen Award.

Janet Waldon of Vernon

Janet’s volunteer Service includes: Crimestoppers, Friends of Fintry, All Saints Anglican Church, Vernon Prostate Support Group, Mackie Lake House, and BC Winter Games. Received the 2012 Vernon Good Citizen Award.

William(Bill) Inglis of Vernon

William is a veteran of the Second World War. William is an active, dedicated Legionnaire who works at least 36 hours a week for the Vernon branch.

Frederick William Musselwhite of Vernon

Bill has been an active volunteer member of St John Ambulance in the North Okanagan/Shuswap for over 13 years. Bill will again serve as a Branch Committee member this year at 71.

Henry Sundquist of Coldstream

Henry is a dedicated leader at Kindale Development Association in Armstrong. For 28 years he has been dedicated to bettering the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Christopher Shewchuk of Vernon

Chris has spent the past fifteen years involved in the Air Cadet Program. Chris commits his holidays to Cadet Summer Training Centers where he provides leadership and direction to youth.

Mervin Churchill of Falkland

Mervin has been involved as a volunteer with the Falkland Stampede since 1961. In 1982 Mervin was chosen "Committee Man of the Year" at the Canadian Rodeo Finals in Edmonton.

David Burge of Vernon

Dave is currently finishing his 49th year of volunteering as a leader with Scouts Canada. He is involved with Provincial and National jamborees.

Helen Sidney of Vernon

A retired teacher, Helen is currently the dessert and pastry chef at the Schubert Centre. She has contributed over 35,000 hours in this volunteer position.

James Allan Thorlakson of Coldstream

Al is a true icon of Canada's business community. Few people have achieved his success, or made equivalent contributions to Western Canada, while attracting less attention. He has been a generous, but quiet, supporter of community and charitable activities, primarily children and health care.

Sarah McLean of Vernon

Sarah has made the Vernon Powerhouse Theatre her second home and has dedicated countless volunteer hours there since 1964. She has been involved in over 100 community productions at Powerhouse. Sarah has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to community theatre in British Columbia.

Our Government is proud to support and celebrate important milestones for Canada, like the Diamond Jubilee. The Diamond Jubilee is an opportunity to celebrate our traditions, history, symbols, values and institutions, particularly the role of the Crown in Canada. Congratulations to these deserving recipients.