Wayne Aelick chosen as Billings Senior of the Year
KAGAWONG—Volunteers enhance the quality of life of Island communities without measure. With June being Volunteer Month, the Township of Billings has announced its selection of Volunteer of the Year and Senior of the Year.
Brad McKay was selected as Volunteer of the Year, while Wayne Aelick was chosen as Senior of the Year. Mayor Bryan Barker presented the awards during the June 6 meeting of council.
“His most vital role as a volunteer has been with the Billings Fire Department,” reads the citation from his nominator. “I think we can all appreciate the importance and dedication it is to take on such a responsibility, even when that responsibility may come with risks. Brad has also served as a volunteer on the Billings Museum Committee for the Old Mill Heritage Centre and the Post Office Museum ever since 2007. In that capacity, he’s devoted his time and personal resources to their regular upgrades. During Canada 150, Brad recreated former Prime Minister Lester Pearson’s office for a display inside the Old Mill Heritage Centre. He participated in the development of Mariners’ Park, built a barn and a replica blacksmith shop to display exhibits, renovated half the museum to give space for the Empress of Ireland and for this season has renovated space to make way for a new camera and photo exhibition.”
“Brad can always be counted on to offer help, advice and labour for public events such as the Remembrance Day ceremonies, while at other events he’ll provide his own sound system or flip burgers for a barbecue event,” reads the municipal citation for Mr. McKay. “Brad was also instrumental in helping with the revamping of the Church on the Hill for public events. When Christmas time comes around, you can count on Brad to display thousands of Christmas lights and decorations on his home and property and mammoth display for the community to drive by and enjoy. Brad has also been involved with the Manitoulin Navy League and Sea Cadets.”
Mr. Aelick’s citation notes: “Wayne is a long-time resident of Kagawong who has dedicated his life to raising funds to support many wonderful causes. At present, he is focused on raising monies and promoting awareness for organ transplants, specifically for the Liver Foundation. He has tirelessly worked creating rustic wood products such as bat and bird houses, all proceeds go to support his cause. For many years he has organized and led the ‘Stroll for Liver’ here in Kagawong. Wayne is living proof that organ donations work. And we strongly recommend he should be recognized for all his efforts as Senior of the Year.”
