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The Coronation of King Charles III was celebrated at the Drumheller Legion on Thursday, June 5, as seven community-minded residents of the Battle River-Crowfoot Riding were presented with the Coronation medal.
MP for Battle River-Crowfoot Damien Kurek made a special trip to his riding to present the medals.
“It is an absolute honour to be able to recognize the extraordinary citizens in our region and truly the seven people awarded here in Drumheller today, the dozen in Camrose yesterday and the ones that were in Wainwright on Tuesday, they show the best of not only what this region is, but the best of what Alberta and Canada is; the exemplary values of citizenship, leadership, self sacrifice and putting their community first,” said Kurek.
Recipients included Barbara Ann Campbell. She has dedicated long hours to support the community through her long-time commitment to the Drumheller Rotary Club and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 22. She is also a decades-long member of the Salvation Army, "embodying the spirit of service through her tireless volunteerism."
Drumheller Mayor Heather Colberg also received the medal, honouring her dedication to the community.
“Her entrepreneurial mindset and strong business sense, shaped by years of experience in both family and independent ventures, have seamlessly translated into forward-thinking and effective municipal leadership,” notes her citation.
Also honoured was Jamie Collins of Linden. She was recognized for her contributions to community development and newcomer integration in Rural Alberta.
“Her leadership in advancing the Rural Renewal Stream has enhanced the region’s ability to attract and retain newcomers, fostering inclusion and growth,” states her citation.
Larry Craige Coney was also honoured with the Coronation Medal. A 25-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, he has continued to serve as a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, taking part in many community initiatives.
His citation reads, “Through Decades of service– mounting medals for veterans, preserving local history and promoting public safety, Larry has embodied the values of duty, respect and remembrance.”
James Lawrence Fisher, better known as Jim, is a recipient of the medal, and his service spans decades and organizations. He received the Paul Harris award for his outstanding contributions to the community through the Rotary Club. He also served as Mayor of Drumheller and led the Chamber of Commerce.
Sports have been at the heart of much of his service. He managed the 1966 Drumheller Miners championship team and coached championship baseball teams. He has championed many local efforts, including the founding of the Drumheller Exhibition and Stampede Society, the Spray Park, Newcastle Diamonds and the senior Gazebo. He continues to work with the Salvation Army, 4-H and the Indigenous Culture Centre.
Linda Fisher is also a well-deserving recipient. She is a long-time Rotarian and has contributed her time and skills to countless efforts.
“Her leadership has been instrumental in projects benefiting youth, seniors and Indigenous communities, including efforts to establish an Indigenous Cultural Centre in the Drumheller Valley,” notes her citation.
Mark Maxwell was also honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal. He has served as president of Prairie College in Three Hills since 2010. Is family legacy traces back to the college’s founding, and under his leadership, it has thrived.
“Mark’s passion for mentoring young adults, his integrity in leadership and his unwavering commitment to Christian Education embody the values of services, character and community that the King’s Medal seeks to recognize."
Kurek explained that each MP was given the honour to disburse 20 medals. He went to the community for nominations for the awards. He was even able to get six more medals for those serving in the community.
“I think it speaks to how incredible this region is and as a Member of Parliament, having the opportunity to represent them, it truly makes me proud.”
