O CANADA

STELLARTON - Patriotism and enthusiasm were front and centre at Flag Day ceremonies at the G.R. Saunders Elementary School on Monday.
There was a spontaneous flurry of flag waving and chants of 'Canada, Canada' prior to the actual event getting underway.
Stellarton Mayor Joe Gennoe said the annual ceremony is a hit with the kids.
"I think it's a good idea to educate them. It creates pride in their country and the flag. It shows what it stands for and what the legion stands for."
During an address to the school assembly, Gennoe called the Maple Leaf a "beautiful flag."
"It's a symbol of Canadian identity that represents us all… We love our flag and we love our country."
National Flag of Canada Day was declared in 1996 to mark the anniversary of the day in 1965 that the red and white Maple Leaf was first flown over Parliament Hill.
Each student in the school received a small flag, flag pin and bookmark courtesy of the Town of Stellarton and Stellarton Royal Canadian Legion Branch 28.
Legion president Bill White said he still gets a thrill of pride when he sees a Canadian flag waving in the breeze.
"When I see the flag it puts a chill up my spine, really. I'm so proud of it," White said. "It brings a tear to my eyes to hear O Canada. The flag, it's ours, people should remember that."
The president said he sees students becoming more aware and involved in such events.
"Kids today are better educated…The kids seem to be more interested than they were a few years ago, especially on Remembrance Day."
White touched on Canada's reputation worldwide and how it ties in with recognition of the flag.
"The world knows the Canadian flag and knows us as a peaceful nation…Look at Canada in Afghanistan. We've lost 140 people there trying to return peace. We're always known for peace and freedom. Always be proud of the Canadian flag."
Both Gennoe and White said pride in the flag may be even a bit higher this week with the Olympics taking place in our country the first gold medal won by a Canadian at home on Sunday.