Gail has shown remarkable vision, leadership, and dedication in bringing the Commemorative Forest initiative to life. Through her passion and forward-thinking approach, this unique program has flourished, becoming a meaningful and lasting part of the City of Brooks and County of Newell communities. 

Thanks to Gail’s efforts, residents have the opportunity to sponsor trees in the urban forest to honour loved ones, celebrate special milestones, and create lasting tributes that will be enjoyed for generations. Her work has not only enriched our community today but has also created a living legacy that will continue to grow and inspire for years to come. Congratulations, Gail! 

Photo by: Kristy Pomrenke -Our Village Creative 

For more than a decade, Gordon has been a dedicated leader in Bow Island, serving as Mayor and supporting numerous community initiatives. In 2025, when the community faced a critical physician shortage, he led the creation of a Municipally Controlled Corporation to operate the local medical clinic. His vision and leadership helped strengthen healthcare services, improve physician recruitment, and create a sustainable solution that continues to benefit Bow Island residents. Gordon has demonstrated what true community leadership looks like: recognizing a need, acting, bringing people together, and creating solutions that will benefit generations to come. Congratulations Gordon! 

Photo by: Kristy Pomrenke -Our Village Creative 

Les has spent a lifetime inspiring others through education and aviation. After beginning his career as a teacher in Medicine Hat, he turned his passion for flying into a lasting legacy through Bar XH and later Super-T Aviation, which continues to train more than 120 students each year. 

Even after the age of 70, Les continued to look toward the future. In 2010, Les helped establish the South Alberta Flight Academy, giving high school students a unique opportunity to earn their pilot’s licence and pursue careers in aviation. Through more than 50 years of teaching, mentoring, and leadership, Les has created opportunities for countless young people and leaves a lasting impact on his community and the aviation industry. Congratulations Les! 

Photo by: Kristy Pomrenke -Our Village Creative 

Ron’s impact on the Medicine Hat community and area is a testament to a lifetime of leadership, service, and generosity. In his later years, he created the Cypress Hills Children’s Make-A-Wish Trail Ride, combining his passion for horses with his exceptional fundraising talents to raise more than $30,000 for children and families. He continues to give back through his leadership with the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede, demonstrating that dedication, vision, and community spirit only grow stronger with age. Congratulations Ron! 

Photo by: Kristy Pomrenke -Our Village Creative 

Terry’s exceptional volunteer leadership has transformed Team Freewheel into a powerful force for good in our community. Through his vision, dedication, and countless hours of service, abandoned and donated bicycles are restored and provided to individuals and families in need, giving them greater independence, mobility, and access to opportunity. Terry’s commitment to helping others exemplifies the true spirit of volunteerism, and his ability to inspire those around him has created a lasting impact that extends far beyond the bicycles he refurbishes. He is a shining example of service above self and demonstrates how one person’s passion can make a lasting difference in the community. Congratulations Terry! 

Photo by: Kristy Pomrenke -Our Village Creative 

For more than two decades, Uwe has devoted himself to helping people rediscover their family histories. His research and development of a unique database documenting more than 110,000 locations across Central and Eastern Europe have enabled countless individuals to reconnect with their ancestral roots. Through his dedication and perseverance, Uwe has created a lasting legacy that preserves history and strengthens connections across generations. Congratulations Uwe!

Photo by: Kristy Pomrenke -Our Village Creative