Strong communities are made up of of many things and the most important is volunteers with a strong belief in the community where they live. For decades now Ladysmith has been known for it’s heritage revitalization, moved forward by dedicated volunteers, businesses and town.
On Saturday, Feb. 22 the Ladysmith and District Historical Society (LDHS) will be acknowledging four groups or organizations that are doing their part in keeping the area’s vibrant history alive. The event will be held at the Eagles Hall, on First Avenue beginning at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited and admission is by donation, with all funds going to help continue the work of the society.
The society has been hosting the annual Heritage Awards event since 2019.
“The awards are a community show of appreciation for efforts made over the past year by individuals or organizations to promote and preserve the heritage of our district,” said society chair Quinten Goodbody. “There are no set number of awards per year. The number depends on the number of worthy nominations received from the community. This year there will be four well deserved presentations.”
The LDHS accepts nominations from the community through their Heritage Awards Committee.
“That group studies for hours and hours studying the submissions, comparing notes, before they determine the final awardees,” the chair said.
Along with the prestigious awards the event will also outline the society’s programs planned for 2025.
“Instead of a guest speaker, we are introducing a 'theatrical twist' to the awards this year, which should prove entertaining. We will have 'special guests' whose presence will be acknowledged,” Goodbody said. “There will be an opportunity to mix and mingle over nibblies after the awards and everyone will have opportunity to chat with the volunteers and the award recipients.”
