Robin McCormick
Ian Booth retired from the Fort Frances Jail earlier this summer, however, his retirement party was held just this past Saturday evening at La Place Rendez-Vous.
And what a celebration it was as about 120 people attended.
Many co-workers from the jail, past management, family members, and friends (even the Burriss Boys from public school) turned out to show their respect and admiration—and just to let Ian know they’re pleased that he’s at a new place in his life!
Ian’s sisters, Christine and Linda, along with their husbands, Monty and Tom, came from Thunder Bay while Neila’s sister, Bonnie, husband, Rob, and daughter, Liz, made the trip from Winnipeg to enjoy the night.
Doug McTavish was the emcee for the evening and shared some special moments regarding Ian’s 33 years employed at the jail.
Doug also was pleased to present the official certificate stating Ian had earned his degree of Jailology from the University of the Fort Frances Jail.
Congratulations and plaques were received from Premier Dalton McGuinty on behalf of the Ontario government and Steven F. Small, assistant deputy minister, Adult Institutional Services.
Jim Keddie, Ian’s superintendent when he started working at the jail, attended the party, as did Angus Hyatt, who had encouraged Ian to apply for a job at the jail.
Dr. Cam Moorhouse, the jail’s doctor, told me Ian was always approachable, but always doing his job with skill, tact, and professionalism.
Ian shared some of his fondest memories over his career, but spoke with special fondness of his fellow workers.
It was obvious to see that Ian enjoyed his work and has made many lasting friends and memories.
He is sure to enjoy some golfing, and is off to Las Vegas in November with family, but I’m sure his jail days will never be forgotten.
Perhaps his only regret is that for 14 years as a superintendent, he was able to give orders to roughly 30 people—and they listened.
Now that he’s at home, he still gives orders but no one listens.
• • •
Taking over Ian’s job as superintendent of the Fort Frances Jail is Doug McTavish.
Congratulations, Doug!
• • •
A reminder that the annual fall harvest supper goes this Sunday (Oct. 4) from 5-7 p.m. at the Devlin Hall.
The Guthrie United congregation once again will put on a delicious home-cooked meal featuring ham, turkey, veggies, desserts, and all the other goodies that make for a feast.
Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children aged six-12, with those five and under being free.
Come out and enjoy your Sunday with good food and company!
• • •
Anglers are invited to take part in the first-annual Northwest Bay Walleye Classic being held this Friday and Saturday (Oct. 2-3).
Boats launch at 8 a.m. both days, with the weigh-ins starting at 4 p.m.
A variety of food booths will be available.
For more info, e-mail nfnwalleyefallclassic@live.ca
Ralph Galusha and Tamara Robson will be fishing as a team for the first time, which puts a whole new meaning to “it could make or break a relationship.”
Speaking of Ralph, he and partner Bill Godin placed second in the annual Rainy River Walleye Tournament last weekend.
Congratulations to both of you!
• • •
Crossroads School urgently is in need of volunteers for the breakfast program. Call if you can help out with this worthwhile plan.
In other news, school photos be taken Oct. 6-7 so be sure to send in the forms with your child.
As well, Oct. 5 is the annual chess tournament at Crossroads. Students from across the district take part in this exciting day!
• • •
The next Bingo at the Emo Legion is set for Tuesday, Oct. 13 (not Oct. 6 as was printed last week).
• • •
Last week’s cribbage winners at the Emo Legion were Ross Brooks and Mary Gavin, with the low going to Agnes Waldeck and Adelia Guba.
Joan Buttazoni won the door prize.
• • •
Robin’s 2¢:
A woman listens as her husband complains.
“When we were married 25 years ago, we had a cheap apartment, cheap car, slept on a couch, and watched a 10-inch black-and-white TV.
“But I got to sleep with a 25-year-old blonde every night.
“Now we have a $500,000 home, a $45,000 car, nice big bed, and a plasma TV screen but I’m sleeping with a 50-year-old woman.
“It seems to me that you are not holding up your side of things.”
Well, the wife was a very reasonable woman.
She told him to go out and find a hot 25-year-old blonde and she would make sure that he once again would be living in a cheap apartment, driving a cheap car, sleeping on a sofa bed, and watching a 10-inch black-and-white TV.
Aren’t older women great. They really know how to solve a man’s mid-life crisis.
