On November 23, 2024, the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (the “UCPR”) held their annual Warden’s Banquet at Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute. Mr. Normand Riopel, Mayor of Champlain Township, celebrated his second mandate as Warden in front of a full house.
Presented by the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital, the Banquet brought together Warden Riopel’s family and friends, politicians from various levels of government, and numerous community leaders from the Prescott and Russell area. A resounding success, this year’s event not only highlighted Mr. Riopel’s tremendous dedication but also that of many other UCPR residents.
“I am proud to have been able to share the stage with so many fellow citizens at the Banquet. It is by collaborating with the UCPR Council and staff, the community partners, and the regional leaders that a Warden can move so many projects forward and achieve his goals. I would like to thank all those who have supported me over the past year and believed in my vision for Prescott and Russell,” said Warden Riopel.
Mr. Pierre Leroux’s political career was commemorated first. Mayor of the Township of Russell from 2014 to 2024, he held the role of UCPR Warden in 2020 and in the early months of 2024. Mr. Robert Kirby was also recognized for his 20 years and counting as Mayor of the Township of East Hawkesbury. Mr. Kirby was UCPR Warden in 2009, 2015, and 2019.
Guests then attended the 10th edition of the JP St. Pierre Award. The ceremony began with a tribute to Mr. Jean-Paul St. Pierre, Mayor of the Township of Russell at the time of his untimely death in 2014. The JP St. Pierre Award is presented annually to one or more deserving residents who have made a positive impact in their community. The first recipient for 2024, Mr. Marcel Belle-Isle, has volunteered with several organizations over the past 60 years, working particularly with youth. The second recipient for 2024, Mrs. Connie Johnston, is greatly involved in several organizations in the Russell area and coordinates several fundraising events.
Finally, the Warden’s Award was presented to Mrs. Julie Delorme, Nursing Supervisor at the Prescott and Russell Residence. Mrs. Delorme has been a pillar of the UCPR for the past 15 years and an important asset to the Residence thanks to her dedication, creativity, and passion. In addition, for the second time in its history, an Honorary Warden’s Award was presented to a member of the community who is not a municipal employee. Mr. François Bellemare, community volunteer and volunteer firefighter emeritus, received this award for his dedication to the well-being of his fellow citizens.
Once again this year, funds raised at the Warden’s Golf Tournament and Banquet will be distributed to non-profit and community organizations at the Inaugural Meeting on December 18, 2024. Since 2018, more than $167,000 has been donated to the community.