Frances Kelsey Secondary graduate Robert McDermit has been named the recipient of the Governor General’s Award for 2014. The award is given to the Grade 12 student who achieves the highest grade point average. He is currently studying at the University of Victoria, working towards a medical degree.
Following a popular tradition for the force, on Dec. 17 some of the office staff, auxiliary constables, and regular members from the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP detachment helped spread Christmas cheer throughout the Valley by dressing up and spending the day visiting seniors facilities from Chemainus to Duncan to sing Christmas carols.
"Their appearance was well received and appreciated by the staff and residents of the facilities," reports Cpl. Jon Stuart, detachment media relations officer.
After each performance they greeted everyone and wished them a happy holiday.
"Even Santa made a special appearance to help with the festive spirit. Between these scheduled performances, when there was time, they also made several unscheduled stops. These flash mob locations included Mr. Mike’s, Duncan City Hall, Valley Seniors Organization, and Just Jake’s. They were also seen to be walking down the streets of Duncan singing carols. Some surprised patrons and citizens expressed their thanks, and most sang along with the group," Stuart said.
Carol Miller, administrative assistant and volunteer coordinator at the BC Forest Discovery Centre reported this week that the Christmas Express Train’s expanded run in 2014 attracted more than 12,700 visitors to the facility in December.
"These numbers are up significantly from last year and the feedback from the public has been extremely positive. Our visitors thoroughly enjoyed the event, many thanking us for a job well done," Miller said, offering a huge vote of thanks to "all the volunteers who came out last month to help out with the Christmas Express, the Christmas decorating, and our corporate events. Once again, we could not have done it without you."
Shirley McLeod is retiring from the Cowichan Valley Regional District after more than 40 years of service.
She started at the CVRD in May of 1974 and spent much of her early years mapping the regional district.
"We have really appreciated your work," said board chair Jon Lefebure, when McLeod was acknowledged at their meeting in December with a standing ovation.
