Despite a slight drizzle, the spirit of the Alnwick/Haldimand Township Canada Day celebrations wasn’t lost on those who attended on Sunday, June 24, 2018 in Grafton.
At 1 p.m. the annual parade lead by the Cobourg Legion Pipes and Drums marched down to the Grafton Arena along with local politicians including newly elected MPP David Piccini, a number of floats, tractors and emergency vehicles.
At the arena, as with every year drinks and hot dogs were free. It’s estimated that up to 500 hot dogs were eaten.
Inside the festivities took place with a number of booths inside.
Alnwick/Haldimand Mayor John Logel proudly showed the communities new Chain Of Office the mayor wears at official functions.
Sponsors for the even were TransCanada, Cobourg East Campground, Cameco, Alnwick/Haldimand Township, Turk Valley Aggerates, Cold Springs Cats, Forest View Percherons Carriage Services, Grafton Automotive, Grafton Co-op and We-Fix-U.
The 2017 Civic Awards were handed out by Alnwick/Haldimand Township Mayor John Logel
Citizen of the Year
Barry Sureus
Barry is an exemplary volunteer, committing countless hours to the community of Roseneath. He organizes an annual Soap Box Derby that takes place on County Road 24 in Roseneath, a fun event for attendees and participants. Barry also serves as a member of the Roseneath Revitalization Committee. Barry’s continued dedication to Roseneath is greatly appreciated by Council and the residents of Alnwick/Haldimand.
Province of Ontario 2018 Senior of the Year
Barbara Harnden
Barb is being recognized by both the Council of the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand for Outstanding Community Service and by the Province of Ontario as the 2018 Senior of the Year. She is a dedicated volunteer for many organizations including:
Christian Community Outreach – Heavenly Helpings
Vernonville Community Centre Committee
Secretary of the Vernonville Cemetery
St. Andrew’s United Church
Shelter Valley Folk Festival
Alnwick/Haldimand Public Library Board
Grafton Public School Breakfast Program.
As a long-standing community member, Barb has always put her community first. Congratulations on your well-deserved achievements.
Jr. Citizen of the Year
Mykee Umali
Mykee’s enthusiastic and friendly demeanor are evident as a volunteer of the Centreton Library and the Community Centre. She works well with all ages from her peers in the Youth Group to the seniors in the Friends of the Library group.
Outstanding Athletic Achievement
Jayden sparks
Jayden has excelled in wrestling, winning a gold medal at the Canada Summer Games in Winnipeg. Congratulations Jayden, Council wishes you all the best in achieving your athletic goals.
Outstanding Athletic Achievement
Kadan Johnson
Kadan is being recognized for his athletic achievements in kayaking. This year he earned the title of National Champion in the U17 Men’s K1 six kilometre race. He also qualified for Canada’s U17 National Regatta team, with the opportunity to compete in two international regattas for his country.
Outstanding Achievements in the Arts
Bill Irwin
Bill is being recognized for his woodworking skills creating mini libraries. Bill is currently building a mini library to be enjoyed at the Nawautin Sanctuary.
Tom Groot
Tom is a photographer for the Nawautin Sanctuary and also designs and produces the Nawautin Sanctuary newsletter.
Outstanding Community Service
Laurie Deviney
Laurie is an active community member with St. Andrew’s United Church, Vernonville Community Centre Committee and the Vernonville United Church and Cemetery Board. Laurie is committed to ensuring the communities of Grafton and Vernonville grow and prosper.
Adam Prentice
Adam has shown his support for Grafton Minor Hockey with over 10 years of service in a variety of positions. He has been a certified referee, certified coach, certified trainer, Vice President and President of Minor Hockey.
Kenneth Prentice
Ken is an active member of the local hockey community. This includes over 10 years of his time as a volunteer to Grafton Minor Hockey in the positions of certified coach, certified trainer, Vice President and President.
Allan Carruthers
Allan has served as the Past Chair of the Northumberland Federation of Agrictulture and as a member of the Northumberland County Agricultural working group. Allan is also a volunteer firefighter for Alnwick/Haldimand.
Suzanne Hogg
suzanne is active volunteer in the community as a member of the Roseneath Fair Board and the Roseneath Revitalization Committee. She also volunteers with the 4-H Club in Roseneath.
John Byers
John was a founding member of the Alnwick/Haldimand Community Policing Committee and continues to volunteer with the CPS. He has dedicated 40 years of service to the Committee.
Heather Brereton
Heather’s efforts have made a difference at the Centreton Community Centre with the increase of participation and bookings. She takes the lead and coordinates events such as Euchre Night and Pub Night.
Mary Catherine O’Neill
Mary Catherine volunteers her time as a Co-Chair of the Centreton Community Centre and with the 4-H Club. Mary Catherine is an active member, coordinating events and programs for all ages.
Naomi Higgins
Naomi is a member of both the Grafton Horticultural Society and the Nawautin Sanctuary Association. Naomi dedicates her time to the Township through planting gardens on Municipal properties.
Valerie MacIntosh
Valerie volunteers her time as a past Chair and member of the Grafton Horticultural Society as well as a member of the Nawautin Sanctuary Association. Valerie assists with the planting and maintenance of the Municipal gardens.
William and Sharon Boyko
William and Sharon are active community members through the Roseneath Fair Board, the Roseneath united Church and participating in Northumberland County’s Clean Up Challenge. Not only do they dedicate their time to Alnwick/Haldimand, but also outside of the Municiplaity as well.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
