KIPLING - Each year, the Town of Kipling recognizes volunteers who work to make the community a better place.
The recipients are nominated throughout the year by various individuals and organizations, and adjudicated by a committee made up of one Lions Club member, the leisure services manager and three members from the community.
Nominations are accepted all year long with a deadline of Dec. 31. Forms are available on the Town of Kipling’s website as well as at the town office.
These awards are normally presented at the Kipling Young Centre’s Hearts for Youth banquet, but due to COVID-19, they were presented by Mayor Pat Jackson at the Kipling Community Centre with a small gathering on hand on March 1.
Sharon Cowley received the award in the senior category. Cowley has entertained, with her vocal selections, the residents of Kipling Long-Term Care Home and formerly at Willowdale Lodge for almost 20 years. She has always encouraged her audience to sing along by carefully choosing songs that are familiar to them. Cowley’s mission is to spread cheer among the residents to enliven their days.
Aaron Borja received the award in the youth category. Borja has volunteered to play the keyboard for the St. Anne’s Catholic Church choir in Kipling since August 2017. He is the only person who plays the keyboard in the parish and plays weekly. As well as playing at regular services, Borja volunteers to play at extra services and funerals. He has a very respectful attitude and is a role model for the younger congregation.
Susan Long received the award in sport and recreation. Long has devoted many years to the development of volleyball for Kipling and area players of various ages. As well as coaching high school teams for more than 30 years, she coached teams in the youth division of Saskatchewan Volleyball for many years. Long assisted with Kipling School’s recent hosting of the 3A Boys regional tournament, stepping in to assist with the development of minor officials throughout the two days. She has also been an active volunteer on the Kipling Swimming Pool board and fundraising group for many years.
Florence Poirier received the award in culture and heritage. Poirier has been involved in the Kipling Music Festival for many years. She values the role that musical education plays in the lives of children and youth, and has been a huge source of encouragement for all participants through the years. In particular, Poirier has assisted with the annual sponsorship acquisitions of the Kipling Music Festival.
Robert Balogh received the award in the senior category. Balogh has been involved with baseball as an umpire for many years. He works diligently to keep the sidewalks clear of snow and ice at various locations around the downtown area. Balogh has been very involved with ensuring that Santa is able to visit from the North Pole and attend many December events in Kipling. (He was not in attendance but will receive his award at the end of March.)
