Cranbrook and District Chamber of Commerce manager Karin Penner was honoured by about 130 chamber members and staff Feb. 20, who surprised her with a celebration of her recently receiving a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

While many of the 60,000 recipients of medals nation-wide have been feted with pomp and circumstance, Penner received her medal in the mail.

That prompted chamber staff and executive to honour Penner during the regular monthly luncheon meeting, held at St. Eugene Resort.

Treasurer Jeanette Sissons presented Penner with a bouquet and words of respect.

“Karin puts in countless volunteer hours every year. We are very proud of Karin,” she said, adding she’s respected around the nation for her efforts.

Sissons pointed at the fact that Penner nominated for the medal by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce board is a testament to that respect. “She’s a mentor to many,” she said.

Sissons noted that along with Penner’s tireless work with the chamber, she’s been the guiding light for the successful Cranbrook Ambassador’s Program.

“It’s an incredible commitment,” Sissons said.

Additionally, Penner launched the first Toastmasters group in Cranbrook, among other groups and committees.

“Cranbrook is definitely a better place because all she has done for the community,” Sissons said.

Famous for demanding of her presidents to “stick to the script” of luncheon programs, as president Mike Adams pointed out, Penner was surprised by the noon-hour honour.

“I really appreciate the support and the staff will deal with this later,” she told the gathering with a laugh.

Ian Cobb/e-KNOW

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