It was during the annual Warden’s Banquet, held on November 18, 2023, at the Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute, that Mr. Normand Riopel, the 2023 Council Warden of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (the “UCPR”) and Mayor of the Township of Champlain, was recognized by his colleagues, his family, and members of the community.
Presented by the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital, the sold-out annual charity event brought together 205 guests to celebrate Mr. Riopel’s accomplishments during his year as Warden. Among the distinguished guests were Mr. Francis Drouin, MP for Glengarry-Prescott-Russell, Mr. Stéphane Sarrazin, MPP for Glengarry-Prescott-Russell, former and current Members of the UCPR Council, several elected officials from the Eastern Ontario region, as well as various community representatives from Prescott and Russell.
LOCAL ENGAGEMENT
For the first time this year, a commemorative medal was awarded to a community hero. This award was presented posthumously to Sergeant Eric Mueller, who tragically passed away in the line of duty while ensuring the safety of the community. A minute of silence were observed during the Banquet to pay tribute to both him and his colleagues. Sergeant Eric Mueller’s family received the medal on his behalf.
The UCPR are proud to have among their citizens committed volunteers who work, often behind the scenes, to make their communities better places to live. These volunteers have a great impact on the well-being of their neighbours. For the ninth consecutive year, these outstanding contributions were celebrated with the presentation of the JP St. Pierre Award. This year, this award was bestowed upon Ms. Louise Bédard in recognition of her community involvement. Chair of Patrimoine L’Orignal-Longueil Héritage, Ms. Bédard works with the L’Orignal Food Bank, the MacDonnell-Williamson House, and the L’Orignal Old Jail, among others. Mrs. Jocelyn St. Pierre, the widow of former Mayor St. Pierre, who passed away prematurely in 2014, presented this prestigious municipal award to the recipient.
The Warden’s Award, a highlight of the event, is given annually to one or two municipal employees in recognition of their exceptional work, outstanding contributions, and professionalism towards the community of Prescott and Russell and their colleagues. This year, Warden Riopel presented this high distinction to Mr. Jérémie Bouchard, Director of Public Works, and Ms. Sylvie Millette, Director of Social Services.
FOR A GOOD CAUSE
Funds raised at the Warden’s Banquet as well as the Warden’s Golf Tournament held earlier in June will be distributed to local non-profit organizations at the Inauguration Ceremony of the next Warden, which will take place in L'Orignal on Wednesday, December 20th.