WILKIE-- In front of an outstanding turnout for the Wilkie Farmers Days pancake breakfast March 1, Clarke Jackson was named Wilkie’s Citizen of the Year. Odin Kent was recognized as Junior Citizen of the Year but was not present to accept his award as he was in Carrot River competing in regional wrestling.
Lori Fenrich, Wilkie recreation director, described Jackson as a “deserving, upstanding and respected volunteer in our community,” before naming him and calling him up to accept the plaque from councillor Les Henderson.
Jackson has been a member of town council for years, contributing to many initiatives. Fenrich said, “He has been involved in several major projects in town that have benefited everyone.”
Jackson is also an active and involved member of the Wilkie Elks and has served as Exalted Ruler for many years. Fenrich pointed out, “He is always striving to find new ways to raise funds for our community and spends countless hours organizing and working at fundraising events.”
Fenrich concluded by saying, “He is an all-around great person and would give you the shirt off his back if someone needed it. He’s always just a phone call away when help is needed and his deep sense of community makes him a perfect candidate for this award.”
Jackson appeared visibly moved when coming up to accept the award.
After his regional wrestling competition over the weekend, Grade 12 student Odin Kent had an exciting Monday morning when Mayor David Zeigler and Fenrich showed up at McLurg High School to present him with his Junior Citizen of the Year award.
In speaking about Kent at the pancake breakfast, Fenrich said “This young man is the embodiment of all that makes Wilkie the most amazing place to live.” She cited his many accomplishments in the sport of wrestling, including provincial wins, adding “He has a positive attitude and supports his teammates on and off the mat.”
Kent is a dedicated member of Charity in Action. In addition, Fenrich said, “He goes out of his way to include his friends and his kindness shines making sure everyone feels valued and accepted. His big heart has had a huge impact and he truly cares about everyone around him.”
In addition to the Citizen of the Year awards being announced at the pancake breakfast, Fenrich recognized members of the community who had made significant achievements in 2024 in the areas of sport, culture and recreation at a provincial or national level. Recipients ranged from members of the 2024 provincial champion Senior Outlaws to the youngsters on the U11 Brewers baseball team to high school wrestlers. In total, an astounding 97 people – not all present at the breakfast – each received a special certificate commemorating their achievements from the Town of Wilkie.
