Sylvan Lake

The 2025 Citizen of the Year Awards were handed out at the May 26 Regular Meeting of Council.

In total, seven awards were handed out to eight deserving Lakers who have made significant contributions to our community and demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of those around them.

This year’s award winners can be found on the Town’s Citizen of the Year Awards page, including a description of each award and an image of each recipient.

Below is an excerpt from Mayor Megan Hanson's presentation of the award ceremony:

"One of the best parts of this role is taking the time to recognize the amazing people who make Sylvan Lake such a remarkable place to call home. Tonight, I have the honor of sharing stories of some truly outstanding individuals. These are people who don’t just live in our community—they make it better in ways big and small, seen and unseen.

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Let’s begin with the Long-Time Service Volunteer Award.

This couple has been giving back to Sylvan Lake since the 1960s—yes, you heard that right. From curling and figure skating to Meals on Wheels and the Food Bank, their legacy of service spans generations. Dale’s long-time role with the Lions Club and Shirley’s quiet commitment to feeding neighbours in need remind us that dedication doesn’t always wear a spotlight—but it always makes a difference. It’s great folks like Shirley and Dale who remind us that small acts of kindness over many years build a community strong enough to last generations.

Congratulations to this year’s Long-Time Service Volunteer Award winners, Shirley and Dale Mannix.

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Our Music, Art, Culture, and Heritage Award goes to a remarkable young woman who is sharing Sylvan Lake’s spirit with the world. Brianna is a gifted Métis fiddler whose talent has taken her across the world—even to Rome! But no matter where she plays, her roots are here in Sylvan Lake. She carries the culture and spirit of her heritage into every note she plays. And with a Juno nomination under her belt, I think it’s safe to say… Brianna, you’re putting Sylvan Lake on the map in the most beautiful way.

Congratulations to this year’s Music, Art, Culture, and Heritage Award winner, Brianna Lizotte.

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Next is the Environmental Stewardship Award, where we honor those working to keep Sylvan Lake green and growing.

Lindsay is a local gardening guru with a quarter-acre homestead, a heart for bees, and a deep love of nature. She’s out here replacing her lawn with clover and encouraging others to live a little greener. Through seed swaps, planting challenges, and an incredible Instagram presence, she’s making sustainability not only accessible—but fun.

Congratulations to this year’s Environmental Stewardship Award winner, Lindsay Kowalchuk.

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The Sports Involvement Award recognizes someone who's shaping our athletes of tomorrow. Ryan Lucas has devoted countless hours to youth baseball in Sylvan Lake. Whether it’s player development, umpire mentorship, or coaching leadership, Ryan is building a sports culture rooted in growth, grit, and teamwork. His commitment to youth baseball is nothing short of home-run worthy and our athletes are stronger because of him.

Congratulations to this year’s Sports Involvement Award winner, Ryan Lucas.

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Now let’s celebrate a shining young leader with the Youth Award of Excellence.

This award is selected from the winners of our Youth Spark Awards—so just being in the running means you’re already exceptional.

If resilience and compassion had a superhero, her name would be Minno. From volunteering in -40 degree weather to leading major fundraising campaigns, Minno never backs down from a challenge. She mentors with heart, leads with strength, and reminds us that true leadership isn’t always the loudest voice in the room—it’s the one that listens, uplifts, and consistently shows up.

And Minno doesn’t just show up—she inspires others to believe in what’s possible when you lead with love and grit. Minno, thank you for being the kind of role model this world needs more of.

Congratulations to this year’s Youth Award of Excellence winner, Minno Letwin.

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Our Mayor’s Distinguished Award goes to someone small in size but absolutely gigantic in impact.

At just 6 years old, Preston is already a local hero. Living with CdLS, Preston has shown this community what strength, inclusion, and kindness really look like. He’s raised awareness, spread joy, and inspired everyone who’s met him.

One thing that really stands out about Preston is that while he does an incredible job raising awareness for his own condition, he also uses his voice to support so many other causes—ones that don’t directly impact him. He’s not just advocating for himself—he’s showing us what it means to care about making the world better for everyone.

And behind this amazing little leader is a family that encourages and supports his positive spirit every step of the way. Preston, your courage lights up Sylvan Lake.

Congratulations to this year’s Mayor’s Distinguished Award winner, Preston Boyko.

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And now, it’s time for our Citizenship Award—the one that honors those whose everyday actions make extraordinary ripples. This year’s recipient, Khristie Looy, is one of those rare people who seems to be everywhere—volunteering at events, cheering on local businesses, building community connections, and lifting others up through her faith, fashion sense, and infectious positivity. Whether she's Cindy Lou Who in the Christmas parade or a helping hand at Cobbs Clothing, Khristie leads with heart, humility, and humor. Sylvan Lake is better because she’s part of it.

Congratulations to this year’s Citizenship Award winner, Khristie Looy.

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To all our award winners tonight—thank you. Your time, talents, and compassion are what make Sylvan Lake an extraordinary place to call home. Congratulations."