Message from Executive Director, Sonia Dantu ADMIRATION AND APPRECIATION The message this summer is about ‘Admiration and Appreciation.’ Admiration for those who make significant contributions in the community, in others’ lives, giving their gift of time, and truly making a difference. Appreciation for those who often go unrecognized. With admiration and appreciation we recognize provincial achievements, volunteers, and staff members behind the scene. Inside this issue, we are extremely proud to highlight a little about each of our 2021 Annual AEF Provincial Award winners. These awards recognize and honour outstanding achievements and those who stood out to make a positive impact within the Alberta Equestrian Community. Peers nominate each recipient; there were over 100 nominations! Thank you to those who took the time to nominate a deserving individual and a special thank you to our Annual Awards partner, CapriCMW for making these awards possible. On the cover of this issue is Norm Spencer, our 2021 recipient of the first ever President’s Award. He has dedicated much of his time to the equine community and continues to do so. Over the years, Norm has held volunteer positions assisting on many advisory boards to enhance and benefit the equine community. He has worked with the Alberta Government on master trail plans and, most recently, on the Castle Provincial Park. Norm is a long-term supporter and volunteer, and he serves on the AEF Recreation Committee. He led the work of the committee on the South Syncline Equestrian Campground in Castle Provincial Park (more on this project in this issue). This new facility will open in June 2022 and will be available to benefit all Alberta equestrians. Sandy Bell, AEF President tells us Norm was selected by the AEF President’s Suite because of his outstanding contributions in service of Alberta’s equestrians and equines. She
With admiration and appreciation we recognize provincial achievements, volunteers, and staff members behind the AEF scene.
notes he truly is an unsung hero of our equestrian community. Volunteers are extremely important to our community and to our organization. AEF sends a very special thank you to those who volunteered at our recent casino fundraising event. We could not do these events without your contribution and we are forever grateful for your selfless gift of time. On the topic of volunteers, when is the last time you thanked a volunteer within your community? Volunteers are vital in the equestrian world and if you look around, there are many working hard at shows, events, club meetings, clinics, etc.; take a minute or two to express your appreciation. The valuable work volunteers do truly makes a difference and your acknowledgement will set an excellent example for others. Long-term employees contribute to an organization’s positive culture, environment, progressive growth, and knowledge base. They help reflect a stable work environment and improve morale.
On behalf of the operations team, board of directors, and membership, I express my sincerest appreciation and admiration of finance team member, Rita Bernard. Rita recently marked her 15-year anniversary of employment with AEF. We are all impressed with how well Rita manages her workload, helps others, and has grown professionally over the years. Rita’s ingenuity and dedication is a great inspiration and motivation to the entire team. On that note, now is the time of year we all appreciate, where everyone looks forward to their summer adventures. Whether you are heading out to the mountains for a packing trip, a day ride, a competition, or planning a BBQ and spending time with friends, family, and your equine pals, take the time to make the most out of this season. AB
ALBERTA BITS I SUMMER 2022
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