Haying in the 30's founders receive prestigious medals

Annual fundraising event attracts largest crowd yet

Aug 09, 2012 11:45 am | Janice Huser

This year’s edition of Haying in the 30’s started off on the right foot as the opening ceremonies included the presentation of a prestigious award to the organization’s founders, Edgar and Cecile Corbiere.

Westlock-St. Paul MP Brian Storseth was on hand to present Edgar and Cecile with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, in recognition of their contributions to the community.

A total of 60,000 Canadians will receive the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medals this year, in honour of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to the Throne. “It serves to honour significant contributions and achievements by Canadians,” according to the Governor General of Canada's website.

“You guys are a tremendous symbol of what this medal is all about,” said Storseth as he presented the medals on Aug. 4, at the Haying in the 30’s site near Mallaig.

Guidelines on selecting recipients include being “highly respected individuals within their community,” according to information from Storseth’s office.

A few days after the weekend wrapped up, Edgar Corbiere reflected on receiving the award, saying, “I feel it was quite a privilege, a great honour.” He admits he didn’t expect to receive such an award, and says he sometimes wonders if he’s really worthy of such recognition. Corbiere is also quick to pass on the credit to the many volunteers and “the community as a whole,” because without them, Haying in the 30’s wouldn’t be possible.

About $197,000 was raised over the two-day event, but the group keeps that number open for two weeks after the event, before finalizing the total amount raised. With late donations coming in from companies and individuals, organizers estimate that last year’s mark of just over $200,000 will be reached.