Mark Leiren-Young picks up his Leacock
Posted June 14, 2009 by Terry Fallis
Last night I was back in Orillia, Ontario, for the annual Leacock Dinner at which the 2009 Leacock Medal was presented and I guess you could say I officially surrendered my sash as the 2008 winner. Mark Leiren-Young was as wide-eyed as I was a year ago as he signed his winning book, Never Shoot A Stampede Queen, and humbly received the good wishes of the few hundred guests at the gala dinner.
Mark is an accomplished artist. He’s a filmmaker, screenwriter, comic, and writer. His acceptance speech at the dinner last night was wonderful. Funny, thoughtful, self-deprecating, and warm. I hope he sells a ton of books.
We’re going to meet when he’s next in Toronto and I’ve promised to show him the secret Leacock handshake. Mark, enjoy every moment of this ride…
I met Mark when he was first touring the stage version of what would beome “Stampede Queen”.
I am SO happy for him. This is one of the coolest things ever to happen to a friend of mine.
Terry,
I’m pleased that you and Mark are planning a get-together – you should get along like a house on fire. Odd expression, that…supposed to be a positive – sounds like a negative. I mean, a house on fire? Seriously? It was great meeting you, and your turning over of the sash to Mark couldn’t be more gracious. Congratulations to you both – well-deserved winners and welcome additions to the rather impressive list of past Leacock Medal winners.
Cheers, Ian (me)
Just had lunch with him today. Great guy blessed with great humility after such wonderful recognition. A man after my own heart. Hope you’re well…