Members of Quinte West council at the annual New Year’s levee in council chambers. (Photo: John Spitters/Quinte News)
The Mayor of Quinte West again stressed health care in an address to guests at the city’s annual New Year’s Day Levee.
Mayor Jim Harrison had high praise for the volunteer health care advocacy group OurTMH as he welcomed Mike Cowan, Sharon Urquhart and
other members of the organization.
“These folks at OurTMH have worked tirelessly and diligently for a few years now and because of these volunteers’ efforts we’ve managed to keep
and expand medical services at Trenton Memorial Hospital. They’ve worked for thousands of hours gathering real data, actual facts about what we have
and future patient needs in our city and in Brighton. Without their work and lobbying I’m not sure we’d be in as good a shape as we are when it comes
to health care. Please, keep up the good work.”
The mayor also spoke highly of the contributions made by personnel at 8 Wing Trenton. “Thank you so much for the work you do, not only here but all
around the world. When I look up into the sky and see our military in action I feel so very grateful. Keep doing what you’re doing.”
The man who organized the push to reopen the Trenton VIA Rail junction, Erik Camolese, was also recognized for his efforts over the past many years.
“Erik has quietly kept Trenton on the map as far as passenger train service goes for Quinte West and just recently VIA added more stops and we hope the
service keeps growing. We need it,” said Mayor Harrison.
About 100 people enjoyed a light lunch in Quinte West council chambers. Among the many dignitaries on hand were Bay of Quinte riding MP Neil Ellis, Hastings
County Warden and Reeve of Tyendinaga Township Rick Phillips, 8 Wing Base Commander Colonel Mark Goulden, 8 Wing Honorary Colonel John Smylie, Honorary Colonel of 2 Air Movements John Cairns, Trenton Salvation Army Captain Rod Hardy, and the very first mayor of Quinte West Jack Arthur.
Entertainment was provided by the Air Force City Pipe Band.