Strathcona County presented the 2018 Pride of Strathcona awards to the following groups and individuals at an awards ceremony held at Festival Place on June 11. Congratulations to all!

Mayor's Award

Daniel O'Neill
Daniel O'Neill is an athlete, coach, author, devoted husband and father. Through all he does, he is an inspiration to others and a positive influence in the community. His personal initiative, the annual 24-Hour Ride for Kids with Cancer, has provided tremendous support for the Kids with Cancer Society. Peddling 24 straight hours on a stationary bike, he logged 532 kilometres and raised almost $10,000 this year. He also rides in the Society’s annual 900-kilometre Tour of Hope cycling adventure.

Arts, Culture and Heritage

Keltie Monaghan
Keltie Monaghan is a 16-year-old singer/songwriter whose music industry nominations and awards already extend far beyond Strathcona County. She began appearing on local stages a few years ago and has shared her singing talents at many of the County’s top public events. Her debut EP charted No. 1 on iTunes Canada, with her debut single taking the No. 2 spot. Keltie was nominated twice for the Canadian Folk Music Awards, and was a finalist in the Canadian Songwriting Competition.

Community Service

Mark and Janet Hamley
In 2016, Mark and Janet Hamley assured the continuation of the annual Terry Fox Run in Sherwood Park, threatened with cancellation for the first time since 1983. Under their leadership, successful Terry Fox Runs were held in 2016 and 2017, bringing the community together to raise funds and awareness for the Terry Fox Foundation. In two years, the events raised more than $48,000 for cancer research.

Christie Peregrym
Christie Peregrym has a neighbourly, outgoing personality and ability to motivate people. She and her group of hard working volunteers were instrumental in the Gilmore Park revitalization project and the creation of the Gilmore Park Community League. She helped build a better community, both here in Sherwood Park and as far away as Honduras, where Gilmore Park’s previous play equipment was rebuilt and other supplies donated.

Economic Diversification

Buddy Winder
Winder Inclusive Community Services (WICS) opened its doors in 2010 as a new service delivery alternative for adults with developmental disabilities. Founder Buddy Winder’s innovative approach has mobile staff teams supporting clients in their own homes and communities. Working with community partners, WICS helps clients maximize self-determination and self-confidence so they can find meaningful employment where they live.

Heroism and Leadership

World's Longest Hockey Game Volunteers
Since 2003, six World’s Longest Hockey Game events have taken place at Saiker's Acres in Strathcona County. The events have raised more than $4 million for cancer research. In 2018, the Game was a success thanks to the time and dedication of more than 800 volunteers. They worked and played together in harsh winter conditions, recording more than 250 hours of hockey for a great cause.

Outstanding Group

Community Action on Residential Traffic Safety
CARTS was formed when a small group of residents came together to help solve traffic safety concerns. The lively organization has joined with the RCMP and Strathcona County Enforcement Services to engage the community. The group initiated a series of community-based programs that include lawn sign campaigns, creating awareness through social media, and participating in the RCMP Bike Rodeo event. Through these efforts, they have succeeded in improving traffic safety in our neighbourhoods.

Sherwood Park Elks
Over the course of 55 years, the Sherwood Park Elks have supported and helped build our community in countless ways. With a focus on helping youth, they have raised more than $1 million and made a difference in the lives of many. Among those benefiting from their hard work are local sports and health programs, high school students, families in need and support agencies.

Youth

Simranjit Grewal
Since the age of 12, Simranjit Grewal has regularly volunteered in his community. A member of Strathcona County Youth Council since 2011, his enthusiasm and creativity have supported many local events. He has assisted organizations like the Strathcona Food Bank and spearheaded new initiatives, namely a Youth Popup event and Project Pantry. Simranjit demonstrates excellent leadership and is a positive mentor to other youth.