STONY PLAIN, AB: The Town of Stony Plain is delighted to announce the Parkland Poets’ Society as the recipient of the sixth annual Award of Creative Excellence for 2023. This prestigious award celebrates individuals, organizations, non-profits, and businesses that significantly contribute to social and cultural cohesion, community identity, creative economic sustainability, and local tourism.

The Award of Creative Excellence was presented to the Parkland Poets’ Society at the Greater Parkland Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Awards of Distinction on October 19. Each year, nominations for the Award of Creative Excellence are open to the community, and the selection process is carried out by the Cultural Roundtable. This year’s nominees included James Mackay, Al Dixon, and winner Parkland Poets’ Society.

Founded in January 2018, the Parkland Poets’ Society is a non-profit organization that provides a safe and welcoming space for community members to share their words and creative expressions. They believe in the power of poetry to offer an outlet for self-expression and to create a sense of unity within the community. The organization hosts regular poetry reading series, workshops, and community events, fostering a vibrant literacy culture in Stony Plain.

With its volunteer board of nine members, the Parkland Poets’ Society has showcased remarkable dedication to enhancing cultural experiences within Stony Plain. During the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, they swiftly adapted to an online format, attracting members and poets from around the world. The organization’s commitment to promoting arts and culture is evident through their participation in Alberta Culture Days and their various collaborations with community organizations.

“Parkland Poets’ Society has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the arts, bringing people together through the power of words and creativity,” says Mayor William Choy. “Their dedication to nurturing local talent and fostering a sense of togetherness has enriched our shared experiences, making Stony Plain a more vibrant and closely-knit community.

“Emphasizing local engagement by partnering with community organizations and hosting workshops, the Parkland Poets’ Society contributes to economic development by supporting local artists and businesses,” says Culture and Tourism Development Officer Chantelle Laberge. “They actively engage with the community and are an important contributor to Stony Plain.”

More information about Parkland Poets’ Society, visit www.parklandpoets.com. Visit the Greater Parkland Regional Chamber of Commerce website to learn more about the Business Awards of Distinction and view this year’s finalists.