Feature Article January 22, 2004
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Honouring Bernice
Probably for the first time ever, Bernice Gunsingers friends and family managed to pull the wool over her eyes.
The community threw a party on Friday January 16, to honour their beloved Bernice, who has been president of the Volunteer Ladies Fire Auxiliary since it was founded in 1987 to support the then fledgling fire department. Around 90 people attended the potluck feast at Clar-Mill Hall in Plevna, which was put on by the Auxiliary and the North Frontenac Fire Dept, largely organized by Vi Martin and Vietta McInnes. Even with all the organizing necessary for such a big event, they managed to keep it a total surprise I didnt suspect a thing! said Bernice. My grandson told me they were taking me to the Swiss Inn for dinner.
Now, 83, Bernice retired from the Auxiliary last month, having has given countless hours of time to the organization over the years. At one time the Auxiliary was the only source of funding for the volunteer fire department.
When asked how she felt being at the centre of so much attention, Bernice said, with the quietness of one whose work has been well done, It feels really, really good. Ive loved working with these girls and Ive never had anybody sass me back in 20 years!
Brenda Maguire, one of the members of the Auxiliary (who did once almost sass Bernice by asking what side of the bed she had gotten up on), spoke for the community when she said, We all love Bernice. Indeed, it was difficult to tell who in the hall was family and who wasnt, as everyone seemed to claim Bernice as their Mom or sister.
Long-time friend Norm Martin had the enjoyable job of roasting Bernice, much to the audiences delight. His description of her as bull-headed and determined drew big applause, as did his version of activities at her house: Its no use visiting her in the mornings, he said. Shes either at the sewing machine, or on the phone, or doing a quilt block, or the quilting frames in the middle of the floor. Bernice has been the organizer of all the fundraisers, and has kept the fire department hopping to keep up with all her brainwaves. On a serious note, Norm said, If it werent for Bernice, there would be no fire department here. Everybody knows that. He added that their Auxiliary is the envy of the surrounding communities.
Mayor Maguire spoke of Bernices strong community spirit, of how she commands the loyalty of about 20 women her girls, the members of the Auxiliary. He said the organization is a credit to her leadership.
Bernice was presented with many gifts, among them a gold watch and a plaque from the township, and she received a standing ovation during the presentations. She said to new president Gertie MacDonald, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did, and she assured everyone that Ill still be with you all the way.
