Each week, the Gazette looks back on stories from the past. Here is what happened this week, by year…
1938
– Limitations on parking in Picton’s downtown were eased when the town gained permission for about 200 vehicles to park in large lots behind the Regent Theatre and Picton Armouries. There was no charge to motorists and an attendant would keep order in the evening hours.
– Ontario Department of Agriculture reports suggested increased acreage of oats, corn, and potatoes in Prince Edward County, with slight decreases for other types of field crops. The reports also predicted higher yields of fall wheat over 1937.
– After an electrical storm knocked out power in Picton, residents questioned whether upgrades should be made to provide more reliable hydro service.
1948
– The Prince Edward Yacht Club was collecting money — possibly as much as $1,000 — to create the Pops Cooper Sportsmanship Trophy to be awarded to the driver collecting the most points in any class at its annual regatta. The popular Kansas City driver died that week due to injuries sustained in a race in Picton.
– After interviewing 12 couples, County council named Mr and Mrs. Owen Jones the superintendent and matron of the Prince Edward County Home, replacing Mr. and Mrs. Cockburn, who resigned after Mr. Cockburn suffered a heart attack.
– Harold Wilson would race in Detroit’s Gold Cup boat races with Miss Canada III, under Prince Edward Yacht Club colours.
1978
– Rudy Scheidthaur, the owner of the Picton Bay Hotel, offered to make a deal that would allow the Town of Picton or the Prince Edward Yacht Club an opportunity to take over his marina on the harbour to run as a public service. He indicated he couldn’t run the marina himself at a loss.
– Just 30 people attended a meeting to announce a revitalization plan for Picton’s downtown core. Those in attendance learned the Picton Business Improvement Area would increased tax levies on businesses from $50-$300 to pay for beautification and promotion of the shopping area.
– A $700,000 construction permit issued to A&P for a Main Street department store was thought to set a record for Picton.
1998
– County councillors faced the potential of raising residential tax levies by 6.5 per cent due to legislative changes. The municipality would be losing $400,000 in farmland tax revenues and an additional $300,000 from a decrease in occupied commercial and industrial land taxation.
– The organizers of the popular Athol Day celebration were undecided if the activity would continue in Cherry Valley without an infusion of new volunteers for 1999.
– After public protest surrounding animal control services, the Count struck a committee to study options for 1999, including a opening a County-operated shelter, the continuation of private contracting, or a solution that combines both approaches.