Paterson given heart-felt send-off
By MARK PAVILONS Editor

Sgt. Bob Paterson received this print, entitled 10-7 Notes, thanks to the efforts of Constable Linda Kennedy and Bolton office administrative assistant Karen Luyben.

Caledon OPP officials, members of the public and volunteers who work closely with local law enforcement, all shared some kind words for a special officer Thursday afternoon.

Sergeant Bob Paterson, who spent roughly 15 years with Caledon OPP, primarily as their community services officer, has moved to corporate communications out of the Orillia headquarters. Well-wishers gathered at the Royal Ambassador for his sendoff and it was apparent he has left his mark on the community at large.

Inspector Andy Karski, Caledon detachment commander, said Paterson was their media face and became a force with local groups such as DARE, Road Watch and many youth programs. He noted Paterson always displayed professionalism, dedication and compassion and gave every project a personal touch. Another gem has been plucked out of Caledon, he stressed.

Karski presented Paterson with a commendation from OPP commissioner Gwen Boniface. In early 2006, there was an extensive search in Bolton for a missing man. The despondent individual, armed with a box cutter, became holed up and OPP responded in force. Paterson knew the man and resolved the crisis, putting himself in harm's way.

Councillor Nick deBoer read a letter from Mayor Marolyn Morrison, which described the long professional relationship between council and Paterson. The mayor said she developed quite a friendship with Paterson during many of their trips and meetings to set up and discuss the made-in-Caledon Road Watch program. She described Paterson as a "quality human being."

DeBoer said he and the Albion Bolton Agricultural Society had many dealings with OPP and Paterson was always a person they could count on. The Orillia headquarters is getting "a top-notch person," he said.

Colleagues pitched in and presented Paterson with a framed print entitled 10-7 Notes, It had long been his favourite piece of art and he was quite touched by the gesture.