Municipality of Port Hope Honours Community Members at Annual Civic Awards Ceremony

For Immediate Release
Friday, May 3, 2024 - Port Hope, ON

The Capitol Theatre in Port Hope was the scene of profound community appreciation last night as the Municipality celebrated its 36th Civic Awards ceremony. The event spotlighted the dedication and contributions of local citizens.

Mayor Olena Hankivsky expressed her pride, stating, “The Civic Awards program reflects our community's spirit and the exceptional individuals who dedicate themselves to improving Port Hope. Our community’s deep roots in volunteerism and mutual support are what make it truly special, and it’s an honour to recognize this alongside my fellow Council members.”

The awards, determined through nominations, recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the community in various fields such as Agriculture, Arts and Culture, Athletics, Community Services, Environment, Inspiration, and Philanthropy, along with special categories for Outstanding Youth and Citizen.

This year, Owen Cahill received the Outstanding Youth Award, and Jennifer Mercer was honoured with the Outstanding Citizen Award, both exemplifying a commitment to volunteerism that inspires the entire community.

It was a packed house, with awards distributed across nine categories. The evening also featured performances by local talents including Soul Shakers Union, Ladybird and the performance teams from 3M Dance Works and Jennifer’s Jazz It Up Studio of Dance, with York Bell Smith serving as the master of ceremonies.

Post-ceremony, attendees enjoyed refreshments in the Capitol Theatre lobby, from a selection of local businesses that included Milly’s Market, Haute Goat, Jim's Pizzeria, Prep Food Co., Frosted Flour Co., Olympus Burger, and the Beamish House Pub.

The Civic Awards Advisory Committee, consisting of Council and community members, oversees the annual recognition program. Members for this year include Dave Kroeger, Lou Pamenter, Leah Wall, Kim Jaye, Kendra Simmons, Siobhan Kloosterhof, Councillor Adam Pearson, Recording Secretary Emma McKerroll, Staff Representative Jeannie Maidens.

The committee extends its gratitude to all who submitted nominations. The nomination process for the next Civic Awards will open in December. For more details, visit the Civic Awards web page.