Pictou West residents receive jubilee medals

Residents of Pictou and surrounding areas received Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee medals during Pictou West presentations at Branch 16 of the Royal Canadian Legion last Friday.

Pictou West MLA and Community Services Minister Karla MacFarlane praised the work done by the recipients to receive the medals.

“This recognition is something you should be very proud of,” she told the recipients. “We know many others who can also be recognized. There is no greater honor than being a volunteer…giving back to the community. You keep the spirit of making your community better.”

MacFarlane presented the medals in alphabetical order.

Caribou River resident Donna Blanchard received a medal for work with various groups, including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pictou County and her talent as a children’s author.

Kent Corbett was cited for volunteering for groups including the Pictou Lobster Carnival, Pictou North Colchester Exhibition and Northumberland Fisheries Museum.

Anne Emmett and Sheree Fitch received medals in absentia. Emmett has been honored as a leader and mentor in tourism, heritage and community organizations that include the Ship Hector, Pictou Visitor Information Center and Pictou Chapter of the cat rescue group CARMA. Fitch has been recognized as an innovative writer, literary artist and inspirational speaker. She actively promotes literacy through her writing and acting with children.

Beth Henderson received a medal for her dedication to community organizations that include the Pictou County Historical Photograph Society and Pictou Academy Education Foundation.

Murray Hill has received a medal for his volunteer work in the community since his retirement in 2000. Organizations he has championed include the Rotary Club of Pictou.

Brian Kellock received a medal for his contributions to the community which include the Kinsmen Club, a number of museums, historical groups and coaching youth in sports.

Eric LeBlanc was praised for his work in the church community in the town and Pictou West supporting the Pictou West Food Bank and the St. include Vincent de Paul Society.

St Francis Xavier University student Luke MacDonald received a medal for his volunteer work on a variety of committees, while setting high standards of excellence in academics and athletics.

Lynn MacKay received a medal for her volunteer work, particularly her “exemplary” services related to the COVID-19 pandemic by making masks for fundraisers and her work with the Caribou District Fire Department.

Ruby MacKenzie earned a medal for her more than 15 years of dedication to Pictou County 4-H and a mentor to many 4-H families throughout Nova Scotia. She is also an active worker in her church in Scotsburn.

Lynn MacLean was awarded a medal for her many years as a school teacher and administrator, and her continued community volunteer work, sharing her “time, intelligence and dedication.”

Alena Martin was honored as “an active member of her community, working to support and implement recreational activities for youth, families and seniors.”

Helen Scammell was praised for her generous support and donations to the future of many people and organizations in Pictou. They include several groups and many graduates of Pictou Academy to help with graduates’ secondary education.

Betty Lou Scott was awarded a medal as she was called “the driving force behind the Salt Springs 4-H Club” for more than 40 years, and whose leadership helps keep the club alive.

Sharon Stewart, a dedicated volunteer and successful businessperson, previously received her medal personally from Premier Tim Houston.