Lest We Forget

Each year on November 11, Canadians pause to remember the men and women who served our country in times of war, conflict, and peacekeeping missions. 

It is a day to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice, to recognize the service of our veterans, and to reflect on the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy today because of their courage and commitment.

Here in Prince Edward County, Remembrance Day holds special significance. Within our community are veterans who answered their nation’s call, as well as families whose loved ones served overseas, and, in many cases, never returned home. Their sacrifices are woven into the history of our County and our country.

November 11 is a time for all of us to pause and consider what those sacrifices truly mean. The peace, security, and quality of life we enjoy today were not freely given. They were earned through the service, dedication, and sacrifice of generations who believed in a better future for those who would follow.

Residents are encouraged to take part in one of the Remembrance Day services to be held across Prince Edward County in Picton, Wellington, and Consecon. These ceremonies provide an opportunity to gather as a community, reflect together, and demonstrate our gratitude to those who served and continue to serve.

As we observe a moment of silence at the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, let us remember those who gave their lives, as well as those who served unselfishly and courageously, some forever changed physically and psychologically by the trauma of wartime experience, so that we might enjoy a better life and a place we are proud to call home. Their sacrifice must never be forgotten.

Steve Ferguson, Mayor and Ernie Margetson, Mayor-Elect

Weak voter turnout means minority rule

Re: Election Night (News, October 26). Looking at the results of our recent County election, most of which, I must say, greatly pleased me, l would point out that the only person who can actually be said to have won a “traditional democratic mandate” was Mayor-elect Ernie Margetson, who earned 62 percent of the “popular vote.” 

Yet even that majority was drawn from a disappointing 50 percent turnout of eligible voters.

All of the other councillors — who deserve our congratulations, splendid as they are — received less than 40 percent of the popular vote, or, one could say, based on the 50 percent turnout, just under 20 percent of the total “eligible votes.”

So, once again, as with our Provincial and Federal governments and our First Past the Post voting system, we have an influential minority of eligible voters, 20 percent. Thank you for getting off your bums and voting!  This strong minority elects, in a sort of democratic way, the people charged with administering local government for every County resident,  including all 26,723 eligible voters, even if only 50 percent of them turned out to vote. 

And yet we are startled to read about the growth of illiberal, non-democratic governments around the world.  

What irks me is that I suspect it’s often people from the large, non-voting group of eligible voters who have the nerve to complain about how County matters are being handled — when they didn’t bother to get off their bums to vote.  If you don’t contribute to making the stew, you shouldn’t complain about its taste! One of the first items I would like to place before our new Council for adoption is a rule stating: Only residents who actually voted are allowed to complain about council, councillors, and their decisions. 

Edward Hildreth, Picton

Trans Day of Remembrance

A Trans Day of Remembrance will be commemorated at the studio pec on November 20 at 7pm. It will be an evening of mindful movement, remembrance, and discussion. 

The studio is at 173 Picton Main Street. This free community event will start with a guided movement session led by Billie Smith. A name reading ceremony will follow. A moderated conversation will then be led by James Woo and Becky Lamb so attendees can learn and reflect on supporting trans loved ones. Mats generously provided by the studio pec, but you are welcome to bring your own. No shoes inside, please; socks recommended. Elevator available. With thanks to Bay of Quinte Pride and Bay of Quinte PFLAG for their support. To register, go to the studio pec’s website and select the November 20 at 7pm class. 

Madeline Smolarz and Vi Woo, Picton