The RPSC Philatelic Research Foundation is launching awards this year at all national-level stamp shows in Canada for youth exhibiting in memory of philatelist Ken Lemke who gave tirelessly to the hobby.
Lemke, who died in December 2022, was a vice-president of the Royal Philatelic Society of Canada and a president of the British North America Philatelic Society. He was an active member of many other groups including the Postal History Society of Canada and the Philatelic Specialists Society of Canada.
The Emma Award, named for Lemke’s faithful springer spaniel, will be offered at each age level (under 12, 12-13, 14-15, 16-18 and 19-21) at the discretion of the jury. Single-frame and multi-frame exhibits in any class will be eligible. According to a news release, the award criteria specifies that it does not have to be awarded to the “best” exhibit, but may recognize an exhibit that shows extra effort being made in the areas of creativity, treatment, knowledge, or research. Exhibitors may win the award only once at each age level.
A cash prize of $250 and a medal will be awarded to the winners. The purpose of the RPSC Foundation is to encourage youth involvement in philately as a means to learn about history, geography, art, sociology, and other related subjects.