Inaugural civic awards honour those whose efforts enrich lives

Story and photos by Sue Capon
More than 90 humans and one canine were honoured for their contributions in making a meaningful difference in the lives of others, and in the community.

Prince Edward County’s inaugural Civic Recognition Ceremony was held Thursday night at Picton’s Regent Theatre, before recipients, friends, family members and fans.

“Tonight is a special occasion for our County,” said mayor Steve Ferguson. “One of the greatest strengths of the County has always been its people.”

He noted volunteers “are found in neighbours who lend a helping hand, community groups that bring people together, coaches and organizers who inspire others, caregivers who offer support, and the many committee members, fundraisers and quiet contributors whose efforts enrich our lives. Through their generosity of time, energy and spirit, they help build a County that is caring, connected and resilient.”

He opened with presenting Ben Thornton with the Governor General’s Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers.

“While this national honour is separate from the Civic Recognition Awards, Ben has chosen to have the medal presented here in Prince Edward County.”

Mayor Ferguson presents Ben Thornton with the national Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers, noting he has devoted more than two decades of volunteer support to the arts, culture, heritage and community life, including with the Mississauga Arts Council, the Regent Theatre and Glenwood Cemetery.

Seven recipients of the Mayor’s Special Achievement Award were selected by the mayor to honour exemplary contributions of distinction.

For many years, Lee Tremblay and Lillee, a certified St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog, have dedicated themselves to supporting others through regular visits to the PEC Memorial Hospital, VON clients and local schools. “Their service reminds us that kindness, compassion and human connection can have a profound impact, and that some of the most meaningful contributions are made one person at a time,” said Ferguson, presenting the honour with Joy McLeod, the awards project lead. The two also received an Outstanding Volunteer Award. Lillee received an Outstanding Volunteer badge, a special Bone design on her award and a bag of liver treats.

Myrna Woods was honoured posthumously with her award being accepted by peer Amy Bodman. Woods died in September of last year, leaving a legacy of work protecting the natural heritage that defines Prince Edward County. “She was a founding force behind the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory, the Spring Birding Festival, the Prince Edward County Field Naturalists and the South Shore Joint Initiative – organizations that continue to play a vital role in conservation, education, research and community engagement,” said Ferguson. “Her legacy lives on through the many causes she supported and the organizations she helped create.”

The Honourable Lyle Vanclief has devoted much of his life serving this community, supporting agriculture and advocating for rural communities as a Member of Parliament. He served as Canada’s Minister of Agriculture from 1997 to 2003. “His contributions to agriculture, rural life and community well-being have continued well beyond his formal role in public service, and as a mentor,” said Ferguson.

Wearing his signature hat, naturalist Terry Sprague was honoured for life-long dedication to education, conservation and community service. “For more than 60 years he has shared his knowledge, passion and deep appreciation for the natural world with generations of residents and visitors.”

David Hepburn founded “Many Happy Returns” bottle recycling collection in 2015 and in 2020 Max Mee joined in the effort to turn recyclable containers into meaningful financial support for local organizations, community programs and residents facing difficult circumstances. Mayor Ferguson, and nominator councillor Sam Branderhorst, presented the award to Mee, and David’s family Noreen Vader and Dave MacKay.

For four decades, Peter Lockyer has been a champion of local history heritage. “His presentations, publications, videos and storytelling have helped generations of residents, visitors and academics develop a deeper appreciation for the people, places and events that have shaped Prince Edward County,” said Ferguson.

Sandra Latchford was honoured foe exceptional contributions through her leadership, volunteerism and commitment to preserving the community’s history, character and well-being. “Her impact spans heritage preservation, community organizations, seniors’ advocacy and civic engagement.”

Seven Outstanding Volunteer Awards were presented to individuals whose extensive volunteer efforts have contributed to the quality of life in Prince Edward County. (Including Lee Tremblay and Lillee as noted above)

Nancy Woods has been a devoted volunteer at Macaulay Heritage Museum for 36 years. Her knowledge and enthusiasm have helped generations of residents and visitors to connect with heritage in memorable ways.

For more than 20 years, Carole Thimidis has been a volunteer at The Regent Theatre. She also volunteers at a local thrift shop continuing a life-long commitment to giving back to the community.

Pamela Stagg, for the past 11 years, has been the driving force behind The County, Naturally, on 99.3 County FM. In June of this year she was honoured by Minister of Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho, and Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont, with an Ontario Senior Achievement Award.

Honouring more than 35 years of compassion for others, the mayor presented Susan Rose’s children Mark and Erin with an award recognizing her work to establish and build the Prince Edward County Christmas Angel Campaign. “While the Angel Tree’s program impact can be measured in the thousands of families it has supported over the years, its true legacy lies in the kindness, generosity and sense of community that Susan has inspired in others.”

Beverley Marr was honoured for her volunteer work as an archivist with the Quinte Educational Museum and Archives, as a leader within the Women’s Institute and a dedicated supporter of local libraries and community projects.

Under the leadership of Brian Beiles, The County Foundation evolved from a small group of committed residents into a community institution. He was noted for his community partnerships, fostering a culture of giving and strengthening community connections.

Further Civic Recognition Awards were presented in several categories. While some larger groups were represented, all members are to receive certificates, delivered by the mayor.

The Youth Volunteer Award for exceptional volunteerism was presented to Audrey Maracle, a Grade 11 student at Prince Edward Collegiate Institute (PECI), who supports fellow students, promotes indigenous awareness and strengthens community connections by bringing people together through education, understanding and respect.

Thomas Rice was presented the Youth Leadership Award for demonstrated exceptional leadership skills. He has served as PECI Student Council President, co-led the County Youth Leadership Team, represented his peers as a student trustee and played an active role in arts, youth engagement and community programs.

The Climate Action Working Group’s Chair Angus Ross, received the Environment and Sustainability Award on behalf of the group for the members’ contributions to environmental awareness and conservation efforts. Group members include Don Wilford, Cathie Coultis, Eva Czerny, John Hirsch, Jonathan Lake and Dan Leeming. It was established in 2023 by council and produced the County’s first Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report, providing a baseline to guide future climate action planning.

One representative from each of seven schools in the County with Food for Learning programs received the Community/Service Groups Recognition Award on behalf of their many teams which consist of volunteers, school staff, students, parents, grandparents, retirees and community supporters bringing breakfast and snack programs to students. Schools included Athol-South Marysburgh, C.M.L. Snider, Kente Public School, Massassauga-Rednersville Public School, PECI, Sophiasburgh Central School and St. Gregory Catholic School.

Don Creighton received the Community/Service Groups Recognition Award on behalf of the many Friends of the PEC Libraries who help sustain branches as a driving force behind fundraising, programming, advocacy and community engagement as well as literacy initiatives, events and activities.

Spencer Henshaw was at post secondary school, but mom Katrina was pleased to accept the Bravery and Heroism award on his behalf. On April 1, 2026, 17-year-old Spencer encountered a life-threatening situation on County Road 3 involving an elderly woman who had become entangled in her car. His calm, decisive action prevented a much more serious outcome.

At just 14-years old, Jessica Davis identified the need to create more opportunities for girls to play basketball and took the initiative to organize free clinics and programs that have since provided young girls with a welcoming place o develop skills, build confidence and form friendships while enjoying the game.

The evening wrapped with thank you messages expressed by Joy McLeod, Project Lead for the program, who was presented with a bouquet for her work on the inaugural event. She in turn thanked pianist Howard Lopez for the evening’s accompanying piano music, and others, including PECI student volunteers for their assistance.