Stéphane Sarrazin, current Warden of the United Counties of Prescott
and Russell (UCPR), was honoured by his colleagues, family, and friends
at the 2021 edition of the Warden's Banquet, held last evening at the
Knights of Columbus Hall in Alfred.
This annual event, which had to be called off last year due to the
pandemic, brought together many guests that came to recognize and
celebrate Mr. Sarrazin's significant achievements and contributions
during his year as Warden. Distinguished guests included Mr. Francis
Drouin, Member of Parliament for Glengarry-Prescott-Russell, Ms. Amanda
Simard, Member of Provincial Parliament for Glengarry-Prescott-Russell,
members of the UCPR Council, other elected officials from the Eastern
Ontario region, and various community and business leaders from Prescott
and Russell.
During the evening, a powerful tribute was paid to Mr. Guy
Desjardins, former Mayor of the City of Clarence-Rockland, who passed
away last July while still in office. The unusual year of the previous
Warden, Mr. Pierre Leroux, has also been acknowledged since no events
could be held during his mandate.
For the seventh consecutive year, the outstanding contributions of an
individual from UCPR were recognized with the JP St. Pierre Award. This
year, the award was conferred upon Mrs. Cindy Anthony in recognition of
her involvement with the Kin Club of Russell’s Catch the Ace Lottery
which raised $2.2 million for the community. Mrs. Jocelyn St. Pierre,
widow of former Mayor St. Pierre, who passed away prematurely in 2014,
was present to bestow this prestigious municipal award.
In the tradition of the Banquet, the Warden's Award is presented to a
municipal employee in recognition of his or her hard work, outstanding
contribution, and professionalism towards the community of Prescott and
Russell and his or her colleagues. This year, Warden Sarrazin presented
this high recognition to Ms. Mary Ann C. Tisdall, Executive Assistant at
the UCPR.
The funds raised at the Warden's Banquet and the Warden's Golf
Tournament held earlier in August will be given to non-profit
organizations in the region. The outgoing Warden will present the
donations to the organizations of his choice at the swearing-in ceremony
for the next Warden, which will be held in L'Orignal on Wednesday,
December 15, 2021.