Vancouver Island writer and longtime TWUC member, Shelley A. Leedahl, won a $500 poetry award celebrating former Ladysmith, BC mayor (1964-1975), Kay Grouhel. A public unveiling and reading of the commemorative poem was held at Transfer Beach Park in Ladysmith on October 2nd, with Leedahl's complete poem, "Gratitude," etched into an interpretive sign, and an excerpt stamped onto a concrete planter.  

The award was sponsored by the Town of Ladysmith. At the unveiling ceremony, Leedahl congratulated the Town of Ladysmith for recognizing the value of poetry in our lives, and for installing this work in a spot where it will be read by many.