The Abbotsford Arts Council has announced that its president, Charles D. Wiebe, has been selected by city council as a recipient of the Order of Abbotsford.
The commercial real estate agent will be among those receiving the honour during a ceremony on June 23 at 7 p.m. at Matsqui Centennial Auditorium.
The Order of Abbotsford annually recognizes outstanding community leaders who have been involved in community service and demonstrated a sustained commitment to the betterment of Abbotsford’s residents.
Wiebe has more than 24 years' experience in real estate, working almost exclusively in the investment, commercial and industrial marketplace.
Wiebe became licensed as a realtor in 1989 and a member of the commercial division of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board in 1991.
He was born, raised and educated in Abbotsford, and earned a diploma in technology in chemical and metallurgical engineering from BCIT.
Wiebe hired from BCIT by Shell Canada Resources Ltd. in Calgary, Alta., where he worked in the materials engineering department.
In addition to being the president of the Abbotsford Arts Council, Wiebe is currently a commissioner of parks, recreation and culture for the City of Abbotsford; director of The Reach; vice-president of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board; and past chair of the BC Commercial Council.
Wiebe also often performs on local stages as an actor/singer and emcee.
In 2006, he won Best Supporting Actor for the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival in Buxton, England for his portrayal of Florian in Princess Ida.
“Charles is a world-class emcee, and every time I see him perform or give a public presentation, I am reminded of how lucky we are to have him as a spokesperson and advocate for the advancement of the arts in our community,” said Gail Gromaski, executive director of the Abbotsford Arts Council.
She said Wiebe has given many presentations to city council and other audiences on the importance of the arts and has attended hundreds of meetings to work towards helping arts organizations better serve Abbotsford’s artists and engage the community in the arts.
"City council nailed it when they chose Charles for this honour," she said.