June 2015
“Having dealt with many real estate agents, we would have to say unequivocally that
Paul is one of the very best.”
– Bruce & Karen E.
Paul Cleary B.B.A., BROKER 705-327-6002 Direct 705-325-1373 Office paulcleary.com
Flowers in the forest. . . . . . . . page 5 Ward 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 14 Garage sales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 16 Community happenings . . . page 26
The hub of our community By Ellen Cohen The Washago Community Centre is described by many as the cornerstone of Washago, the hub of the community. The centre is what locals think about when someone mentions a parade, the seniors’ club, day camps, skating and hockey, community events, parties, weddings, political gatherings and more. How all of these activities occur without a hitch and how the community centre manages to keep the books balanced is a testament to our community and the volunteers who are so committed to the tasks at hand. The volunteers, of course, need to know what is scheduled and what is needed at each event and that’s where Rose Petit comes in. The only staff member, Rose officially works only 2½ days a week, although anyone familiar with her knows that she puts in far more time at the centre, time she considers volunteerism. Rose is the hall manager and she makes sure that the plans and expectations of the board of directors are brought to fruition, including the important revenue generating programs and rentals. Rose communicates with both those who are delivering programs and the registrants. Her meticulous scheduling – the big calendar on the wall of her office - ensures that there are no scheduling conflicts and that there’s always room for rental events,
Preparing a meal for a catered event, volunteers work together in the well-equipped kitchen at Washago Community Centre. Shown from left to right: Jerry Brown, Marianne Welbourn and Lorraine Brown. including catering. The end result is that the WCC books balance. Rose is the first person to say that none of this would happen without volunteers. “Some of our volunteers are often here several times a week and they’ll do anything that’s needed to get the job done.” This group of volunteers are asked to take on tasks that include preparing food for events, running the bar, helping to set up for rental events such as the recent Bruce Stanton/ Garfield Dunlop MPP meet and greet event, fundraising events, or assisting with community events such as the Canada Day or Christmas parades. The board of directors is another group
of volunteers that should be recognized. The current board consists of 6 community members and is led by Jim Ferry, currently in his second term as president. Each of the board members has a specific role and all board members will take on a leadership role in a major project at some point throughout their term. Jim says they also help with volunteer recruitment. One example of a major project is the upcoming Canada Day parade, a wellknown and well-attended Washago event and a good example of what happens when volunteers come together to enrich their community. A board member will lead the
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