For nearly three decades, Bill and Betty jo Werthmann have been at the heart of Edmonton’s folk music community through the Northern Lights Folk Club, which they co-founded in the late 1990s. Together, they have built a welcoming and dedicated listening community while providing opportunities for artists at every stage of their careers.
Over the years, Northern Lights has presented artists including Maria Dunn, Stephen Fearing, John Wort Hannam, Penny Lang, Ron Hynes and Dave Gunning, among many others. From the beginning, Bill and Betty jo have placed particular importance on treating musicians well and creating an environment where artists, volunteers and audiences all feel welcome, comfortable and valued.
Their commitment to community extends well beyond the folk club. For ten years, they co-presented Home Fest with the Edmonton Coalition on Housing and Homelessness, bringing together Edmonton-area songwriters and musicians to raise awareness and funds for programs supporting people experiencing homelessness. In 2013, Bill undertook Hillary’s Ride, a cross-Canada bicycle journey supported by Betty jo in memory of their daughter Hillary, raising funds and awareness for mental health, wellness and suicide prevention.
Bill and Betty jo have created much more than a successful concert series. Through decades of generosity, compassion and behind-the-scenes work, they have nurtured music through community and community through music, embodying the spirit of the Unsung Hero Award.