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Dan Poole (centre) of Whitewater Region was honoured with a 2024 Warden’s Community Service Award in the in the individual category. Also taking part in the presentation (from left) were Councillor James Brose, chair of the Development and Property Committee; Kathy Black, who nominated Mr. Poole for the award; Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon and County Councillor Neil Nicholson at the November session of County Council on November 27.
RELEASE DATE:
November 28, 2024
The County of Renfrew presented the 2024 Warden’s Community Service Awards, honouring an individual, not-for-profit organization and business, at the November 27, 2024 session of County Council. These awards are a meaningful way to recognize and thank the recipients for their numerous community contributions.
The recipient of the individual award was Dan Poole of Whitewater Region, nominated by Kathy Black; Paddle Co-op of Palmer Rapids, nominated by Nikola Neskovic received the not-for-profit award and The Valley Gazette, nominated by Allison Layman, was recognized in the for-profit business category.
Mr. Poole has volunteered tirelessly for many years to promote awareness and education about the flows and levels along the Ottawa River watershed, helping Renfrew County residents broaden their knowledge about water management, making timely water management information available to residents in his home municipalities of Whitewater Region and to the greater community at large along the entire Ottawa River Watershed.
He has been a passionate advocate for better communication and transparency when it comes to managing water levels along the Ottawa River. His creation of the Northern Reservoirs Facebook group in 2020, which provides real-time updates on water conditions, is a testament to his dedication to helping river communities stay informed and prepared.
The Paddler Co-op in Palmer Rapids was honoured with a 2024 Warden’s Community Service Award in the not-for-profit category. Ryan O’Connor (centre) accepted the award from County Councillor James Brose, chair of the Development and Property Committee and Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon at the November session of County Council on November 27.
After two decades of operating Paddler Co-op on rented property nestled into the bank of the Lower Madawaska River near Palmer Rapids, when the property became available for purchase, Ryan O’Connor inspired a grassroots community fundraising effort which saw 800 people come together to save this slice of heaven and preserve the favourite place for many in the paddling community. They raised enough to secure a mortgage and the Paddle Co-op is a non-profit, member-owned organization in business to build a better paddling community for everyone.
The Paddler Co-op values inclusivity, accessibility, sustainability, responsibility, integrity and quality, and believes in a “people first” culture and strives to offer some of the most affordable youth whitewater programs in Ontario.
The Valley Gazette newspaper received a 2024 Warden’s Community Service Award in the in the for-profit business category. Publisher Michel Lavigne accepted the award from County Councillor James Brose, chair of the Development and Property Committee; Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon and County Councillor David Mayville at the November session of County Council on November 27.
As The Valley Gazette approaches its 15th anniversary of operation, under the direction of Publisher Michel Lavigne, the local newspaper continues to provide oversight on government, connecting residents, and highlighting local achievements. The Valley Gazette remains a vital resource, fostering connection, trust, and a sense of belonging among its readers.
Over the years, The Valley Gazette has been a steadfast supporter of numerous non-profit organizations and community groups, offering both feature stories and free advertising to those with limited budgets. The paper has also sponsored a hockey pool for twelve years, with all proceeds benefiting the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation. Additionally, the publisher Michel Lavigne was a founding supporter of the Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care facility.
Following the presentation of the awards, Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon congratulated the recipients and thanked them for the passion displayed through various initiatives.
“It is an honour and a privilege to recognize the outstanding contributions of individuals, not-for-profit organizations, and businesses in our community through the Warden’s Community Service Awards,” said Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon. “Their dedication and service exemplify the spirit of Renfrew County, making it a better place for all. These awards celebrate their commitment to excellence and the positive impact they have on the lives of our residents."
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Craig Kelley Chief Administrative Officer 613-735-7288
Tina Peplinskie Media Relations Coordinator 613-735-7288
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