The United Counties of Prescott and Russell (the “UCPR”) hosted their annual Warden’s Banquet in honour of Mr. Mario Zanth, Mayor of the City of Clarence-Rockland and 2026 UCPR Warden. The prestigious event, presented by the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital, was held at the Bourget Community Centre. Over 235 guests were in attendance, including regional elected officials, community leaders, as well as representatives from numerous community organizations and the business community.
The Warden’s Banquet is an important fundraising dinner that contributes to the UCPR Warden’s Fund. These funds support important social and community organizations throughout the Prescott and Russell region each year. Last year alone, $46,000 were divided amongst eleven different regional not-for-profit organizations. This brings the grand total to $241,000 that has been donated to the community since 2018, thanks to the UCPR Warden’s Fund! The amount raised this year will be announced and distributed during the UCPR’s Inaugural Meeting on December 2nd.
Throughout the evening, community members paid tribute to Mr. Mario Zanth to commend his successful year as UCPR Warden. During his term, Warden Zanth also acted as Vice-Chair of the Eastern Ontario Wardens' Caucus (the “EOWC”), an organization that advocates for 103 municipalities across Eastern Ontario.
“What an honour it has been for me to assume the role of UCPR Warden this year. It has been very rewarding to work together with the other mayors and the UCPR staff for the common good of our greater regional community. I am proud of the work we have accomplished, and I am so grateful for the support of the community, including for tonight’s fundraiser,” said Warden Mario Zanth.
During the evening’s festivities, deserving members of the community were also honoured. The JP St. Pierre Award is bestowed annually to a deserving resident who has had a positive impact in the community. This year, it was presented to Nicole Gaul, a dedicated volunteer at the Rockland Help Centre for the past 20 years, as well as for many other charitable causes.
The Warden’s Award is given each year to honour the hard work, the exceptional contributions, and the professionalism of a municipal employee toward his/her/their community and colleagues. This year, it was presented to Charles Beaulne, Master Electrician with the Engineering Services of the UCPR’s Public Works Department. On top of all his regular work duties, Mr. Beaulne played a large role in shaping the largest capital project ever undertaken by the UCPR: the Prescott and Russell Residence Redevelopment Project.
A second Warden’s Award was also presented to Olivier Berthiaume, Chief of Staff and Director of Communications at the UCPR. Mr. Berthiaume has been working at the UCPR for more than 11 years. He is a hard-working leader who continuously goes above and beyond and who is always there when you need him. His dedication, professionalism, and thoughtfulness shine through in everything he does.
Finally, the Banquet provided an opportunity to present an honorary Warden’s Award to Steve and Daphne Love, two residents of the City of Clarence-Rockland with big hearts and a genuine desire to help those in need. For many years, they have been involved with the Rockland Food Bank, as well as with the charitable organization: Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada.
The evening was memorable and a great success!