THE COUNTIES, Ontario – Two elements, each with their own unique story, were officially recognized Friday at the eastern-most roundabout in Long Sault, Ont.

The items include a massive ship’s anchor, pulled from the St. Lawrence River years ago and refurbished by local resident and diver Andre Lafleche. Also, a canoe, recently donated by resident Andre Pommier and painted by Long Sault native and Ottawa artist Robbie Lariviere, was installed as a piece of seasonal public art.

“I love to help improve our community and I love the amazing work that our local artists produce,” said Pommier. “I had a canoe and with the help of Robbie’s artwork, we created a great new addition to the roundabout.”Andre Pommier

While the anchor will remain housed at the roundabout year-round, the canoe will act as a piece of seasonal public art that will be displayed during the warmer months of the year.

“The roundabouts in Long Sault are part of the Counties’ transportation infrastructure and these amenities will add to the beauty and overall aesthetic of this hub in South Stormont,” said SDG Warden Allan Armstrong. “On behalf of the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry I would like to extend our thanks to Mr. Lafleche and Mr. Pommier for their kind donations. As well, many thanks to Mr. Lariviere for his artistry.”

The anchor was pulled from the river downstream of the R.H. Saunders Generating Station in Cornwall. It is unknown how it got there, or from which ship it may have come from.

“Relics, like the anchor, are part of our local history,” said Andre Lafleche. “South Stormont’s connection with the St. Lawrence River, the seaway and the Lost Villages have been cemented over the decades, and I think adding the anchor to the roundabout helps illustrate those ties.

The elements pay tribute to the history of our region and the philanthropy of local residents.