CiB judges tour Clinton
National Communities in Bloom judges Claire Laberge of Montreal, QC and Gerry Teahen of St. Mary’s, ON spent most of the day on July 22 touring every aspect of the Village of Clinton.
After enjoying the museum and self-guided Historic Walking Tour, it was time to get down to business the next day. With the Public Works foreman explaining things along the way, the judges toured Kings Lake Cemetery, Reg Conn Centennial Park, and the Swage Lagoons.
Eco Depot attendant Iris Robinson outlined the features of the Eco Depot, and Yvette May showed off the Community Garden. Ted Pappas explained why he and his wife Jackie planted and maintain Robertson Square with plants from one of the Robertson’s homesteads.
Mike Dier of Gold Trail RV Park provided a delightful lunch including many vegetables from his own gardens. This was followed by a tour of the RV Park with all the trees, gardens, etc. that have been added, as well as the recycling area.
Councillor Wayne Marchant gave a tour of the Old Cemetery, explaining the challenges presented by not only the marmots but also the ongoing question of ownership of the property. He then led the way to the Village reservoir and chlorination plant to point out how the system works and what the recent federal grant of $2.45 million will provide. From there it was back to the Village Office to meet the staff and allow the judges time to write up their evaluations.
Everyone asks, “So, how did we do?” Unfortunately, the answer won’t be known until October, when it is announced at the National Symposium in Ottawa.
As a member of the Clinton Communities in Bloom Committee I want to say a big Thank You to everyone who helped make our community shine. The judges appeared to be impressed with all we have here. We will find out just how impressed in October.
Texas 4000
The Texas 4000 group stopped in Clinton on Thursday July 25 for the night. As in the past, the Clinton Lions Club provided them with a delicious meal in Reg Conn Centennial Park.
As part of their tour they give a presentation in every community in which they stop, to spread the word about cancer prevention. Although there was only a small group of locals to welcome them, these young people - who have given up their entire summer to do this ride from Texas to Alaska - were very appreciative.
They carry with them a large banner on which people are asked to write the names of anyone they know who has beaten cancer, or battled cancer and lost, or is currently battling the disease.
Before heading out in the morning they start the day with a prayer meeting, where they pray for the people named and anyone else who needs their prayers. They are an amazing group of young people, and I wish them well on their trip.
Medieval times
The hills above Clinton are once again the scene of a medieval village, complete with castle, knights in armour, damsels, and all that goes along with the annual Clinton War.
The August long weekend sees many costumed characters in the area, as these medieval enthusiasts come and enact simpler times without all the amenities of today. Although they mainly keep to the hills for their activities, it is not unusual to see folk in the garb of earlier times walking the streets of Clinton.
For more than 30 years they have been coming, and they are welcome. They bring a certain flair to the village that isn’t often seen elsewhere. If you see someone in medieval costume on the streets of Clinton, please stop and say hello and welcome them to our community.
Chainsaw Carving
The first chainsaw carving event resulted in a lovely bench that can be seen beside the Health Centre. The second chainsaw carving event is scheduled for Aug. 10, and will see Ken Sheen demonstrating his skill.
Music in the Park
The next entertainer to take to the stage in Reg Conn Centennial Park will be Ridley Bent. He is scheduled to entertain us on Saturday Aug. 10 beginning at 7:30 pm. Mark your calendar and plan to attend. Bring your own chairs (and blankets if it is cool).
Susan Swan