Harper's Condolences

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:

“It is with great regret that I extend my condolences, and those of all Canadians, to the family and friends of Private Patrick Lormand. Private Lormand was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near the vehicle in which he was travelling, on patrol in an area west of Kandahar.

“Our support and prayers also go to the four brave soldiers who were wounded during this same incident, and to their loved ones.

“The thoughts and prayers of all Canadians are with you during this difficult period.

“The military objective of this mission is to secure an environment that will foster development and aid to better the quality of life of the Afghan people.

“This tragic loss will be remembered. The men and women of our Canadian Forces are dedicated to make a positive impact in this world. Their actions protect Canadians, our interests and our values.”

130th Fatality

One Canadian soldier was killed and four injured when an improvised explosive device detonated near their armoured vehicle on a road in Panwjai District. The incident occurred approximately 10 kilometres South-West of Kandahar City at around 1:00 p.m., Kandahar time, on 13th September, 2009.
Killed in action was Private Patrick Lormand from the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment based in Valcartier, Quebec. Private Lormand was serving as a member of the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment Battle Group, Quebec.
Four other Canadian Forces members were injured during the incident. They were evacuated by helicopter to the Multi-National Medical Facility at the Kandahar Airfield. They have all since been released. Their identities will not be made public.
Our thoughts and condolences go to the family and friends of our fallen comrade.
Members of Task Force Kandahar work with Afghan security forces for the greater good of Afghanistan. We remain focused and determined to bringing peace, stability and good governance despite the challenge imposed on us by the insurgents. We remain committed to Afghanistan.

Queens Build Starting

The money is in the bank. And now they're getting ready to start swinging hammers for the Habitat for Humanity project in Queens. Organizers exceeded their goal of raising 60-thousand dollars to help build the house that will become a home for a Liverpool family of four. Spokesperson Bobbi Jo Goulden says this week will be the build kickoff groundbreaking ceremony. The event will run this Friday afternoon from two until four at the build site on Amherst Street in Liverpool. Habitat for Humanity uses donated labour and materials to build homes for people who otherwise couldn't afford them. The money the families pay back, goes into the fund to help build additional homes for other families in need.

Bathroom Plans

A public washroom for the Village of Chester is one step closer. The Village Commission recently unveiled plans for a new washroom at the Lido Pool at a cost of about 70 thousand dollars. Chester Warden Alan Webber says Municipal Council has indicated they might be able to offer some assistance but hasn't had any recent communication with the Commission. The Village Commission had previously made a request to Council for assistance with the washroom, and upgrades to the changehouses.

Old Town Accident

Lunenburg RCMP are investigating a hit and run accident that took place in the town over the weekend. The Mounties are requesting the public's help in identifying a vehicle involved in the hit and run which happened Saturday September 12th around 6 p.m. at the intersection of Falkland Street and Victoria Road. A male driving a Green Ford Ranger pickup was seen fleeing the scene. Anyone who can identify the driver of the vehicle is asked to contact the Lunenburg RCMP at 634-8674.