Seniors are mentors, volunteers and role models, but they’re rarely acknowledged for all they do. On October 5th, we celebrated some of the stand-out seniors in Medicine Hat and area at the AgeCare Valleyview Seniors of Distinction awards! Since they began in 2014, these awards have provided an opportunity to celebrate seniors who make significant contributions to select communities across Alberta and BC. Thanks to all the community members, dignitaries, local politicians, and friends and family members of the nominees that joined us.
Through the nomination process, we heard so many inspiring stories of amazing achievements and valuable community contributions. It was hard to pick just one winner in each category! Congratulations and thank you to all our nominees for everything you to do make Medicine Hat a better place to live.
With all of that said, we are excited to introduce our AgeCare Valleyview Seniors of Distinction Awards winners!
Linda Cleveland – Arts
Linda Cleveland has been a pillar of the arts community for over twenty years. Her unwavering dedication shines through as she spreads the gift of music and entertainment to care facilities in Medicine Hat. Linda’s musical shows, whether it’s a Tuesday afternoon or a Christmas celebration, bring positivity and a sense of community to those who may not have the opportunity to venture into the city. Beyond her musical talents, Linda’s coordinates the annual polka fest for Medicine Hat and the surrounding area, where her meticulous planning and organization bring joy to those who attend. She brings countless smiles to those that listen to her music and even inspires people to get up and dance.
Joyce Stuber – Leadership
Joyce Stuber has left a mark on her community through her lifelong dedication to education, compassion, and bringing joy to others. In the 29 years she spent teaching home economics, her commitment to her students extended beyond the classroom as she baked birthday cakes for them. Joyce’s leadership shines through the activities she provides at senior care facilities that have enriched resident lives, from the experience of hatching incubated chicken and quail eggs, to the enchanting butterfly program where residents can watch butterflies emerging from their cocoons. Joyce’s commitment to education is equally commendable, as she shares knowledge through information posters and engaging conversations about the hatching process and various breeds. In addition, she organizes mini ‘zoo’ visits that create memories and smiles, allowing residents to interact with animals including llamas, rabbits, and donkeys. Joyce’s boundless enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives of others make her a truly exceptional leader.
Dale Kerr – Community Service
Dale has a heart of gold and an unshakable commitment to making a difference. Since relocating to Medicine Hat in 2018, she has been an exemplary volunteer, dedicating two days a week to AJ’s Loan Cupboard, a non-profit organization that provides essential medical equipment to those in need. Beyond her invaluable assistance to clients, Dale’s thoughtful initiative of “cake day” for fellow volunteers, where she personally bakes delicious cakes to celebrate their birthdays, showcases her kindness and generosity. Joining the Medicine Hat and District Horticulture Association in 2019 allowed Dale to cultivate her passion for gardening and foster meaningful friendships. Her commitment deepened as she transitioned to a director on the board, actively promoting horticultural interests in the community. Dale’s love for nature led her to participate in the adopted a pond project, where she not only maintained the adopted pond but also went above and beyond by removing invasive weeds. Her dedication extended to volunteering at the SPCA and adopting a cat. Dale’s remarkable contributions to her community, the environment, and animal welfare make her the recipient of the 2023 AgeCare Seniors of Distinction Award in the Community Service category.
Anne Mugleston – Healthy Living
Anne Mugleston is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. Despite facing the challenges of being legally blind and living in a care facility for several years, Anne’s spirit remains active and engaged. She is a shining example of selflessness, consistently contributing her time to various committees, serving coffee to fellow residents, and extending a helping hand to the recreation team. Remarkably, at the age of 103, Anne continues to spread joy by distributing cookies to residents and assisting the recreation staff whenever needed. Her enduring passion for an active life and her commitment to enhancing the well-being of those around her is truly inspiring.
While this ceremony was all about our winners, we couldn’t have made it happen without our amazing sponsors. Thank you to all of these local business for supporting our event and making it possible for us to recognize these deserving folks.
Thanks again to everyone who attended and supported the 2023 AgeCare Valleyview Seniors of Distinction Awards! We were proud to be able to recognize and share the stories of our winners who truly make a difference in Medicine Hat and Area.
