I recently found out that I have been nominated for the Architectural Conservatory of Ontario (ACO) Public Education and Engagement Award.
I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to everyone involved in the nomination process and the production of the documentaries that this nomination is based on. It is particularly rewarding to see the hard work of volunteer organizations like ACO and the Stratford & District Historical Society in promoting historical awareness for our community, both now and for future generations.
After decades of working in the film industry, I decided in the early 2000s to focus my skills on projects that hold personal significance. When I moved to Stratford in 2019, I attended the first meet-and-greet of the newly formed Stratford & District Historical Society and was encouraged by Rick Huband to join. It was inspiring to meet individuals who were passionate about the Society’s mission:
– To advance education by improving the public’s understanding and awareness of the history of Stratford and the surrounding district.
– To celebrate local history and honour the people who contributed to its richness and diversity.
– To work within the existing historic network that collects, preserves, exhibits, and publishes material related to Stratford and District’s heritage and history.
In those early years, we produced several short documentaries highlighting local characters and events that we felt were important to share. Although COVID-19 disrupted our initial momentum, we did manage to continue with a few productions.
First let me thank those that put together the nomination, they captured my personal objectives in creating these documentaries perfectly.
Thanks to Allan Tye, Carole Huband and Michele Bailey for their research and formulation of the submission.
To Dan Schneider and Cambria Ravenhil for their encouragement and advice on new documentary projects I have been considering.
A special acknowledgment goes to Nancy Musselman; without her efforts, none of these projects would have been completed. When I arrived in Stratford, I knew almost nothing about the city, but Nancy seemed to know its entire history. If she doesn’t know something, she knows how to find out. Her contributions have been invaluable, not only in production but also in organizing events that allowed us to screen our documentaries for various groups throughout the community.
I am grateful to all the executive members of the Society who have infused a historical perspective into our community: Jayne Trachsel, Rev Dr. Scott Boughner, Rick Huband, Carole Huband, Allan Tye, Pat and Lorne Bolton, Mary Walton, Nancy Musselman, Michele Bailey, Kathleen Freeman
When the story of Gerard Brender à Brandis, 77 Brunswick St., and James Anderson first came to mind, I saw a wonderful opportunity to weave their narratives together.
The production of Under This Roof took place during COVID-19, presenting its own set of challenges. However, I believe that this unique time allowed us to explore the story in greater depth. I am thankful for that opportunity and for the contributions of Gerard Brender à Brandis, Marianne Brandis, Lucinda Jones, Dean Robinson, Cambria Ravenhill, Norma Cardiff, Betty Jo Belton, and Michael Murphy. It truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Once again, thank you to the Architectural Conservancy Ontario for this nomination. The value of these documentaries extends far beyond the screen, enriching our community for years to come.
