YORKTON – The Civic Recognition Awards for 2023 were officially announced at the regular meeting of Yorkton Council Dec. 18.
"The CRA’s recognize recipients in three categories, ‘Adult,’ ‘Youth’ and ‘Group’, who have given selfless support, and made contributions for the betterment of the City of Yorkton, explained Jessica Matsalla, City Clerk, with the city.
Nominated in the Adult Category is Kristin Weber.
“Weber has been a dance teacher for over 25 years and business owner for 15 years, running her Dance business, Extravadance Studio, with locations in Yorkton, Canora and Preeceville over the years. Kristin has worked hard to provide a wide range of experiences for all dancers who are a part of her studio, from running workshops within her building, bringing in experienced dance instructors and choreographers to share their expertise with the youth, to trips to Disneyland, Disney World, and an upcoming 2024 trip to New York, giving those dancers experiences to last a lifetime,” detailed a nomination letter for Weber from Jodi Bjornerud.
"I am truly honoured and humbled to receive the nominations and the award," Weber told Yorkton This Week, adding, "I graciously accept the award and just to share the importance of giving back to people and the community."
"I don't do it for the recognition rather because I feel it's the right thing to do," said Weber, "I was born and raised in Yorkton and I love living here and will continue to make it an even better place to live."
The Boys and Girls Club of Yorkton were the group category recipient announced at the meeting of Council.
The BGC was nominated by Carly O’Donnell, who wrote, “BGC Yorkton has been a pillar in this community for a long time. Many businesses and organizations have donated and sponsored this club over the years. They have programs such as Clothes For Bros which gives clothes to those in need, The Outlet; a place for teens to come spend their time, get proper meals/snacks, learn how to cook and do art, etc. Halloween shop where kids who can’t get a costume can have one, day camps which are vital for some youth during the summer, a leadership group teaching kids how to be responsible and effective leaders and gym nights promoting all kids to be active and giving them a chance to do so. They do endless fundraisers to support the kids. BGC is most times a first place to sponsor. They’ve spent so much of their time giving back to the community I truly believe it should be recognized all that they do. Every day the club makes a difference in children’s lives and sometimes is the only safe place they can go. Many children who attend also end up becoming employees and furthering the impact of the club. That is something to be commended.”
Lorraine Oranchuk, Executive Director/CEO at BGC Yorkton said they are very happy to be recognized.
“It’s just such an honour that somebody took the time to nominate us,” she said.
Oranchuck said even the nomination is wonderful because it meant the organization was “recognized for what we do in the community . . . that we’re doing the right things.”
The award is also maybe just a bit more special for Oranchuk as she has been with the organization 22 of its nearly 30 years in the city. She said the award provides a sense “of validation” to all the work through the years for herself “because I’ve been here as long as I have. I’ve seen the club grow . . . I’ve been along for the ride.
In the Youth Category, Yorkton Regional High School student Avery Bond will be recognized after being nominated by YRHS teacher Roby Sharpe.
“Bond is not just one of the nicest individuals you will ever meet; she is also an inspirational leader who has had a profound impact on her peers and the school community," wrote Sharpe in his nomination application, adding, "as the elected president of the Yorkton Regional High School, Avery's passion for student government is evident in her dedication and tireless efforts to make a difference. Her leadership skills have not only earned her the trust and respect of her fellow students but have also made her an exemplary role model in our school."
"“Avery's true strength, however, lies in her ability to spread positivity and kindness throughout the halls of the Yorkton Regional High School. Her innate ability to treat all students with respect and empathy has created an atmosphere of inclusivity and acceptance, which is truly remarkable and invaluable," added Sharpe.
The Award Recipients for 2023 are set to be be formally celebrated and given their awards at a ceremony prior to the Jan. 29 Council meeting.
