Plans are now in the works for people who have made a significant contribution to communities in the Banff - Airdrie riding to be recognized during Canada's 150th anniversary.

Conservative MP Blake Richards says he's planning on presenting the medals to outstanding volunteers and community builders.  Richards says he's taken up the cause after the Liberal government decided not to give out medals.

"It was really unfortunate that the government chose not to have official medals produced for this purpose to celebrate the community volunteers and others that give so much to our communities.  It's something we pressed the government to do and it's unfortunate that they chose not to do that."

According to Richards, he's putting a panel of people together to select worthy applicants.  "We're going to be asking for nominations from people.  We'll be getting information out very soon on how people can nominate someone."

Although plans haven't been fully formulated yet, Richards says his goal is to recognize people who have contributed significantly to their communities through their volunteer time or in other ways.

Richards says ceremonies will likely be held at various locations throughout his constituency, but they won't likely be held on Canada Day, a holiday he feels is already busy enough.  "We'll set some dates for ceremonies.  I would think sometime this summer or this fall we'll plan the ceremonies to be a nice celebration of the contributions these people have made to their communities."

 

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