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Groups bestow awards

Fiesta provides relaxed atmosphere for networking

Organizers of the third Chamber of Commoners fiesta have planned the first ever Commoners’ Choice Awards. The fiesta takes place at 7 pm on Wednesday May 4 at the French Club on Manson Avenue, and the awards will celebrate the achievements of community organizations and people who make this region such a wonderful and exciting place to be.

The previous two Chamber of Commoners events were developed to celebrate the non-profit and voluntary sector which does so much for the well-being of the entire community. Both events were well attended and brought together groups and individuals who don’t often get the chance to meet, talk about what they do, share ideas, and network in an informal atmosphere.

Due to the popularity of these events, a new team of organizers has been working on a third event where people and groups can mingle and have a good time celebrating the common work of building a strong and vibrant community.

“These events are the best way we can think of to celebrate the astonishing amount of commitment and hard work that it takes to create and sustain the arts, sports, environment, civic engagement, and other activities that these groups offer freely to everyone in the community,” said Pete Tebbutt, organizer. “This is what the commons means: what we all share without considerations of profit, because not to do so diminishes the society we live in.”

This time the organizers have planned an awards ceremony to honour the accomplishments of some of the people and groups whose efforts make a real difference in the community. Awards will be given out to the people’s choice in the categories “uncommon youth,” “uncommon elder,” “uncommon business,” “uncommon group/organization,” and “extraordinarily uncommon commoner.”

There are no fixed criteria for these awards. The organizers invite nominations by April 26, stating in 100 words or less why they wish to nominate that particular person or group. Members of the public may send their nominations by email to chamberofcommoners@gmail.com with the award category in the subject line.

As in the past, there will be light food, drinks, networking, information tables, spin-the-wheel for door prizes, and much more. Organizers are asking for a $3 donation at the door to defray costs, but no one will be turned away. For more information or to RSVP, readers can send a message to chamberofcommoners@gmail.com. Organizations that want to reserve tables should also contact the Chamber of Commoners by email. People without email can call Paul Schachter at 604.483.4282.