September 26, 2001

St. Mary School Recycling Program Is Example Of Student’s Contribution To Community Life

Now that we are well into another school year, students and teachers will once again become a major focus of attention in the community. It is a reminder to us that schools play an integral role in developing attitudes among our youth. St. Mary School in Capreol is one school which feels it is important to show students that helping others can bring them a sense of purpose and satisfaction that is hard to find elsewhere. The school is continuing its fundraising recycling program of collecting used inkjet cartridges and toner cartridges. This program is good for the environment and helps the school raise much needed funds for special projects. You can get more information on this program by calling Kelly at 858-1841.

Earlier this spring, Natalie Morin, Exercise Events Coordinator with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, shown on the far left in the photo, was presented with a cheque in the amount of $3583.31 which was raised through the Jump Rope For Heart event held at St. Mary School. Ms. Mary Peterson, shown on the far right, was the school coordinator for the campaign. The ten children in the photo each raised over $100 in pledges, with Grade 3 student, Rob Peterson, bringing in $257 himself.

This was yet another example of how the school is contributing to the quality of life of the community.

“We would all like to thank the families and people of Capreol for their support in our Jump Rope for Heart event,” explained Peterson. “This is our best campaign ever and the children should be very proud of what they have done.”

In fact, St. Mary School has raised close to $12,000 in the past five years. This year, Mrs. Oven’s Grade 4/5 class brought in the highest total reaching $856.21. She was closely followed by Mrs. Adler’s Grade 3/4 students who raised $851.39.

For Mary Peterson, the cause has a very real personal impact. “Three years ago in October, I had to have emergency open heart surgery. And if it wasn’t for the research done by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, I wouldn’t be here today. So for me, this is more than just another fund-raiser.”

Several contests were held during the event. Winners of these events included:

Fastest Skippers: Mercedes Derkacz (Sk to Gr. 2); Kendra Speedie (Gr. 3-5); and Angie DiCarlantonio (Gr. 6-8).

Longest Skippers: Tabatha Bourguignon (SK - Gr 2); Kristen Bolduc (Gr. 3-5); and Jessica Venne (Gr. 6-8).

Skipper with the Most Complicated Routine: Justin Byrnes (SK - Gr. 2); Samantha Gaudette (Gr. 3-5); and Phalen Iserhoff (Gr. 6-8).

A total of 150 children participated in Jump Rope For Heart at St. Mary School.

The students have done more than just raise money over the past five years. They have participated in a special cause for which they can feel a great sense of pride. The money may not be significant in the large picture. However, when you put all of the $12,000 bundles together, it makes for a very large pot. The students are now part of the fight to control heart disease. They have taken up the battle and are doing their part. They are also a fine example for the rest of us - including their parents.

      Congratulations St. Mary School. May you continue to show leadership in community involvement well into the future.

 United Way/Centraide Campaign Kicks Off In Valley East Targets $10,000 From Community Donations

Ron Dupuis, Ward 3 Councillor and the Chair of the Valley East Division of the United Way/Centraide Campaign, is shown on the left along with Campaign Co-Chair, Collin Bourgeois, in front of the campaign thermometer, which is located at the entrance to the Clearview Golf Club on Hwy 69N. The highly visible United Way Thermometer will aim towards the goal of $10,000 which has been established for this community.

“I am confident that Valley East businesses and residents are behind me in supporting the United Way/Centraide Sudbury and District,” stated Dupuis. “Last year the United Way funded 50 community programs that helped 7,508 residents within Valley East. These numbers show a significant impact to building a healthier and stronger community.”

Through the campaign, all companies within Valley East will be asked to participate in a workplace payroll deduction program. Employees will pledge a small amount per pay. In addition, several special events will be organized to raise additional funds.

Bruno Gobeil, owner of the Clearview Golf Club announced that on October 5, 25% of all green fee revenue for the day will be donated to the campaign. As well, members who play that day will be asked for a $5 donation. Finally, a spaghetti dinner will be held that evening, with $1.00 from every plate going into the pot. Gobeil expects to raise $2000 on October 5.

On September 29, from 11:00 to 2:00, the Parthenon Restaurant will host a barbecue for United Way.

All events will add to the creation of awareness and visibility of the campaign and bring the community together for a good cause.

Dupuis was one of the original participants when the United Way first formed in 1982. Today, there are over 25 organizations in the United Way.

Residents Invited To Show Community Spirit By Attending Community Trail Day Ceremony

The first ever “Community Trail Day” will take place around the region on Sunday, September 30. This event will encompass the entire area of Greater Sudbury, including Capreol, Valley East, Sudbury and Walden. The purpose of the event is to highlight the accomplishments of the Rainbow Routes Association and unveil the new Trans Canada Trail signage program. In addition, organizers will be working with the Trans Canada Trail Foundation to plant 40 mature trees along the trail.

The day will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the Centennial Field Gazebo in Capreol. It will then move to Valley East at 11:00 a.m. at the Howard Armstrong Recreation Centre. The festivities will take place in Sudbury at Junction Creek (corner of McLeod and Norman Street) at 1:00 p.m. and wind up at Walden’s Simon Lake Park at 3:00 p.m. At each location there will be the unveiling of an interpretive sign and the planting of ten mature trees. People will also be given an opportunity to walk completed portions of the trail and learn more about the future development and completion of the remaining trail system. The Sudbury and District Health Unit will be contributing dollars to help with the installation of the signs.

It is hoped that this year’s “Community Trail Day” will become an annual event by raising awareness of this impressive project that will eventually link Canadians on a trail from coast to coast. This event and all Rainbow Routes activities are made possible by Fed Nor.