Two locals will be joining them. Connie Blixhavn of Killarney is a former Killarney-Turtle Mountain councillor and deputy mayor. She said in her questionnaire the Peace Garden has been a part of her life since she moved to the area 50 years ago, and has been interested in serving on the board since they hosted the Communities in Bloom conference.
Don Engbrecht of Boissevain will also be coming on board. A native of the community, he said he had been visiting the Peace Garden since the 1950’s with family, and has donated metal art to the attraction. He was one of the board members who started Cherry Creek Place, and spent many years as the executive director of the organization now known as Prairie Partners, which aids in the lives of individuals with additional support needs. This experience, Chapman said, fits in well with the Peace Garden.
“It’s exciting to have someone with his background, running a non-profit. That background will help all of us.”
This leaves one seat open. Chapman said the board could appoint someone after the election is completed. If it does not happen at the AGM on April 25, he expects it to occur by the summer. He added there has been some interest shown.
Peace Garden members can vote in the board elections, including for those on the other side of the border. Even when there are only enough people to fill the seats, they like to publicize the elections, and post bios and answers to questionnaires, Chapman said.
“Even when they are not contested, it is good for people to know who is running and what they are about,” he stated. “People can see who is there, what skills they have, and then see if they are interested. Or someone else might see it and think of someone who is a good asset. They can step up and show interest.”
The vote is open until April 18. Paper ballots are available on request, but there is more of a focus on the online voting, as it is more cost effective. Chapman said they do not have a huge percentage of members vote, but it seems higher this year, possibly because of the online balloting.
He said he looks forward to working with the new board, including new members.
“It is not so much about new blood, just folks engaged with new ideas, unique careers and backgrounds.”
To find about the candidates visit: peacegarden.com.
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff