By George Danio
The club was started by a very determined woman Joan Clark. She was deeply dedicated to forming the club and sought advice from anyone and anywhere she could. we owe a tremendous debt of gratitude-without her vision and determination; we might not be here today.
Joan was supported by many early members, Mert Burrows, Shirley Caron, Rita McBride, Danielle Boulianne, who are still members today. Others who served on the first board of directors included Marge Roberts, Peter Monks, Sylvie Stortini.
The club began with about 50 members and has grown to over 250 plus. Over the years, many others have contributed to its success, including Eleanor and Mike Gould, Carol Hansen, Myrna Burrows, Anna McKie, Jack and Gail Moore, Lorraine Weaver, Deanna Stachiw, Shirley and George Caron, and Ingrid Fournier.
From what I’ve learned speaking with longtime members; the club first met at the legion. It was officially incorporated on June 4 2001. In those days, meals were sometimes held at the community hall or local churches, with members bringing their own dishes, silverware, and decorations for themed events.
And they certainly new how to have fun. If you through the photo albums, you’ll see members dressed up and enjoying themselves-whether it was a western night with cowboy outfits or a Hawaiian night with costumes made using toilet paper, tape and newspaper.
In 2008, when the township acquired St Martin School, the club formed a building and maintenance committee to redevelop it into a adult centre. Doug Roberts chaired the committee, and a dedicated group led by Warren Pearen worked through the winter and spring to transform the space. They created a drop-in area, games room, craft room, and wellness and reception areas.
Rita McBride led a cleaning crew that tackled the aftermath of construction, while Danielle Gagna and Mary Pat Santerre spent a weekend washing and waxing floors throughout the building. Howard Elliot installed signage, set up pool tables, which was generously donated by Jamie Robinson.
All these efforts helped create what we can proudly say is one of the finest in the province. These same volunteers gave their time at the local drag races-parking cars, selling tickets, and garbage pick up. For 25 years, our members have supported this event, and in return, the car club has generously supported us with annual donations that help fund our Christmas dinner.
In the early days in this building, the club had very few supplies. Members even held a “kitchen shower”, where everyone brought items to get started-many of which we still use today. Fund raising efforts included sharpening knives, hosting car washes, and selling crafts. Today, we are fortunate to receive grants that help meet our needs.
Over the years, the club has been guided by several dedicated presidents; Joan Clark (2001-2012), Shelly Long (2017-2018), and Gail Dakin (2018-present).
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Township of Terrace Bay for their ongoing support. They have always worked closely with us and continue to assist with both operating and special grants.
Finally, I think it’s only fitting that we give a well-deserved round of applause to everyone-past and present-who has helped build and sustain this wonderful club.
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