Walldogs Receive Breakthrough Award

An extraordinary event took place in 2001 that not only had an immediate impact on Cornwall but a long lasting one as well. 150 Letterheads, better known as sign, graphics and sculptor professionals, came to spend a weekend in Cornwall, to attend the Walldog Jam conference organized by Nancy Beaudette and Noella Cotnam of Sign-It Signs. When they left, nine outdoor wall murals celebrating Cornwall's history were left behind for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.

The Chamber recognized this outstanding event with the awarding of the Breakthrough Award at the 2001 Business Excellence Awards.

Taking the podium to accept the award with Noella Cotnam, Nancy Beaudette was quick to recognize the efforts and contributions of local companies and organizations. "I am sure that at least one person at each table here tonight helped out in some way, either as a sponsor or volunteer", she said. "The painters were amazed at the hospitality and friendliness of Cornwall, and many were sad to leave."

Spearheaded by Sign-It, and in conjunction with the Chamber's Image Enhancement Committee, the four day conference featured a number of workshops and other seminars. It was the first such conference to be held in Canada. A key part of the conference was the public display of the attendees' talent, as the "walldogs" worked on nine giant outdoor murals that remain on buildings throughout Cornwall.