CORNWALL, Ontario – For years, Chuck Charlebois had a vision for what Cornwall’s waterfront could be, with that vision coming close to fruition, Charlebois is being honoured for his dedication.
Part of the Cornwall recreational path that runs along the waterfront and past the Cornwall Cotton Mills will be renamed the Chuck Charlebois Recreational Path and will be marked by an archway at either end.
The announcement was made at the Stomping Grounds Bistro in the Cotton Mills on Wednesday, Oct. 18.
Many of Chuck’s family and friends packed into the bistro to hear the announcement and say some kind words to their friend.
“Chuck was known to fight for his community especially in the East End and Le Village,” said Todd Lihou, Centretown Coordinator for Heart of the City.
The Mayor and current members of Cornwall City Council expressed their gratitude for Chuck’s efforts to help develop the community.
“I can think of no person more worthy than you,” said Mayor Leslie O’Shaughnessy. “You are certainly a real champion for the City of Cornwall. On behalf of the City of Cornwall I thank you.”
Former Cornwall Mayor Bob Kilger was also present at Wednesday’s announcement and had kind words to say to the former councillor in both English and in Chuck’s native French.
“I also want to thank his wife Suzanne,” said Kilger in French. “She is always at his side. Thank you for sharing Churck with us for so long.”
Chuck himself had a few words of thanks to the gathered crowd and explained the history of how the Cotton Mills became what it is today.
“To know where you’re going, you must know where you’ve been,” said Chuck, quoting Anthony Robbins.
He said that in 1987, without a plan drawn up to show his vision to stakeholders, he managed to raise $50, 000 for the future waterfront project.
Ultimately, Chuck said that the recognition he was receiving would not have been possible without the support he received from the community. He thanked many people who had helped him throughout the years, many of whom were present in the Stomping Grounds for the announcement.
“I accept this honour you’ve bestowed on me today, but I accept it on all of your behalf,” he said. “That’s why it worked, thank you very much.”
