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Habla recognized by the City

Local patriot Karl Habla was honoured by the City of Timmins at Monday evening's council meeting.

Local patriot Karl Habla was honoured by the City of Timmins at Monday evening's council meeting.  

Habla is best known for his annual Canada Day flag walk from city hall to the international flag park in Schumacher, an event that he has organized for the last 20 years.

“I don't think I've seen or met a more patriotic individual in my life, and he definitely does our community and our country proud,” said Mayor Steve Black.

Habla immigrated to Canada from Germany in 1957.

He worked in the area for over 40 years, both in mining as well as for St. John Ambulance.

The award reads as follows:

The City of Timmins congratulates Mr. Canada, Karl Habla for your loyalty and devotion to Canada, especially in the promotion of national consciousness and placing primary emphasis on the promotion of its culture and interests on the 20th anniversary of the Karl Habla Canada Day Walk.

Black explained that they initially wanted to present Habla with the award on Canada Day itself, however scheduling conflicts didn't permit it.

Habla told those in attendance why he is so in love with this country.

“I'd just like to say I've lived 54 years here in Timmins. Timmins is the greatest city there is. Not only to live in and raise a family, but also to retire in. That's why I'm still here,” he said.

“I've been in many cities and countries, and every time when I get off the plane here in Timmins at the airport, I feel at home, safe, relaxed and secure.”