"Burns Way" honours local icon Wayne Burns
by Brandon Mayer
The latest Winchester street to get an alternative name in someone’s honour is Burns Way – the newly designated ceremonial name of St. Lawrence Street between Main Street and Clarence Street. The new designation honours Wayne Burns, a local entrepreneur and pharmacist who has done an immeasurable amount of good for the North Dundas community.
“The Township of North Dundas is proud to recognize Wayne Burns for his unwavering dedication, generosity, and support of our community,” the Township said on social media. “As the founder of Seaway Valley Pharmacies, Wayne has supported the health of many residents, improved local programs, supported minor sports and the arts, uplifted families, and inspired future generations. He has also been a major supporter of community fundraising initiatives.
“In honour of his contributions, the Township will present Wayne with a ceremonial street sign for ‘Burns Way’ – the ceremonial name of St. Lawrence Street from Main Street to Clarence Street, where his first pharmacy was located. Burns has been serving the community in many capacities for well over 50 years.
“Wayne’s dedication, generosity, and support have touched countless lives in our community – from improving local programs to supporting minor sports, the arts, and numerous fundraising initiatives. The celebration was a testament to the lasting impact he has made on North Dundas.”
The ceremony to commemorate Burns and the new street signs – which have been installed at intersections along the section of St. Lawrence Street in question – took place on August 13 at Sweet Corner Park. Mayor Tony Fraser opened the ceremony with kind words about Burns, emphasizing his generosity, and the fact that he has always tried to remain out of the spotlight. All four of the other members of council were in attendance as well. Burns’ brother also made the trip from Edmonton, Alberta to attend the ceremony.
Burns’ son Philip was called upon to unveil the street sign at Main at St. Lawrence, leading to enthusiastic applause from those in attendance.
Burns gave a speech following the unveiling. Mayor Fraser introduced him as “Mr. Burns”, to which Burns answered in a light hearted way with a story that from day one, he has always preferred to be called Wayne. “This means so much to us,” said Burns, referring to himself and his wife Huguette, who was also in attendance. “It’s so nice to see you all, and I’ll be seeing you as much as possible in the future... it’s been a privilege to serve this village.” More applause erupted as Burns declared “I can beat cancer”, holding up a bandage wrapped around his right arm.
Burns Way is the second ceremonial street name to be dedicated in Winchester, the first being Ault Way (Main Street), honouring the Ault family legacy.