To the Editor,

The recent Canton Canoe Weekend was a splendid event. As part of the festivities, the Grasse River Heritage Area Development Corp. (GRH) hosted a Community Reception in Heritage Park on Friday, May 13.

Over 200 people were in attendance to witness local music, food and drink, the unveiling of the new J. Henry Rushton statue and the introduction of the Rushton family members visiting for the Rushton Memorial canoe races, the naming of the Heritage Park trail system for Peter Van de Water, the introduction of a number of participants in the original Rushton Canoe race 50 years ago, recognition of the Children’s Rushton Poster Project, acknowledgement of landowners along the area waterways, and the presentation of commemorative paddles made by artist John Miller.

Making all of this happen required a lot of effort and requires a lot of thanks.

Everett Smith, Francis Robinson and Levis Kazee provided the music and our community is fortunate to have such talented and community-minded members.

Pizza was donated by Josie’s and by Sergi’s, and its excellence was demonstrated by the rate of its disappearance. Cindy’s Cakes made the enormous cupcakes for everyone’s enjoyment.

Terry McKendree carved the J. Henry Rushton statue now on display at the entry to the Heritage Park “Peter Van de Water Trail.”

Thanks go also to Chuck Bolesh, the Chairperson of the Canton Canoe Weekend, as well as to Town and Village officials for efforts and support in bringing the events of the weekend to fruition.

I would also like to recognize Rodger Bailey who composed and prepared the framed photos on exhibit in the GRH Community Room in the Rushton Place building.

I’d like to express thanks to all the members of the GRH Board of Directors for support and hard work to make the events successful, noting especially Linda Fay, who orchestrated so many parts despite having to be out of town at the time of the reception, Ann Sullivan and Kate Newell. Finally, thank you to all of the community who came out to support the weekend events.

Bill Trumble, President

Grasse River Heritage