Al is able to inspire others while always being prepared to do the hard work.  He makes others want to follow the example he sets. He is a man generous with his time.  He has always made himself available to anyone in need, in a “behind the scenes” kind of way. Although Al spearheaded many projects, he contributed silently to countless others.  He is always one of the first people to show up, sleeves rolled up, and ready to get to work.  He is humble, and not looking for accolades or kind words.  He simply wants to make his community a better place to live. 

He was instrumental in helping to build the facilities and programs that have allowed thousands of people to participate in sport.  He is able to envision opportunity, not obstacles, and bring people together to achieve common goals.

A great leader can make important decisions about an issue in the time it takes others to understand the question.  While helping to organize the 1967 Voyageurs Relay, no one could have anticipated the rain that would fall that day.  Being ten miles out of town with more than a thousand people parked in a small area, it was no surprise that most vehicles got stuck. Al helped to organize a number of tow trucks - no small feat considering the location and the year.  By late that night, the last vehicle was able to get out. 

Many have spoken about his propensity for the barbeque.  Al can barbeque a mean steak as he’s had decades of practice.  Not only did he barbeque for the opening of the Alder Flats Community Center on July 1st, 1967, he did it again on its 50th anniversary last year as well as every rodeo in between.  A feat not easily placed on everyone’s resume. 

Al is innovative.  He can always create a way to repair whatever is broken or has stopped working.  Because of Al, Alder Flats will have generations of people who use a local verb…”Clemmer”.  As in, “Hey Joe, the boards came apart at the rink.  Can you fix it?” And Joe says, “Well, I can order in a part, but for now, we’ll just have to Clemmer it.”  You can tell the amount of involvement he has in his community as it mirrors the size of his key ring.  If Al doesn’t have the key for it, give him an hour or so and he’ll find one. 

All leaders leave a trail but great leaders leave a legacy, because they leave people better than they were when they found them. 

On behalf of the Wetaskiwin and County Sports Hall of Fame and the countless people your actions have helped to improve, I’d like to thank you, Mr. Al Clemmer, for leaving your legacy.