Last Canada Day celebration in Cowansville?
Adedicated group of volunteers, for over three decades, have organized wonderful Canada Day celebrations at the beach area in Cowansville. Over the years Yvan Monast and Bob Pincott have lent their talents and time to the committee. Phil Leonard was the treasurer for 15 years and his wife, Dale Strange, followed in his footsteps for the last 15 years. Bruno Goyette is the president of the committee and he has been involved for over 30 years. Linda Baxter-clement has been involved as well for over thirty years. They are looking for new people to head up this event. They are very willing to pass on their knowledge but feel that it is time for a new committee to take on this task. Dale Strange can be contacted at 263-1231 and Bruno can be contacted at 263-1538.
The paperwork and plans have to be ready before Christmas. Even though the committee has been submitting for federal funds since 1985, this year, of all years, they were told that the paperwork was one day late. No federal money was given but many sponsors supported them this year, including Cowansville Toyota (Group St. Louis), CDEC, Duke and Associates, Louis Meunier (notary), Pete Persons Inc., Uniprix Mailly Nguyen, Eve Hauser, Toitures Choinard, Transforce Beltal, Walmart, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 99, Jessica Inkel, and Josianne Inkel. The Town of Cowansville filled in the gap left by the federal government and gave over $9,000. The day turned out very well and thanks goes out to all who volunteered and supported this special birthday of Canada’s. Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 99 raised the Canadian flag. MP Denis Paradis was in attendance.