Snow Road Snowmobile Club Open House

Alice Gilchrist | Jun 28, 2012

Photo: Front:  John Gemmell, Janet Gutowski, Betty Hunter, Ruth Wark, Gordon Monroe, Morley Wark, Jack Elzinga, Karen Lindop-Beckwith, Brian Stewart, Ken Sinclair with some of the many SRSC volunteers in the background. Photograph by Doug Syme.

It was a beautiful day and there was a marvellous turnout for the official opening and ribbon cutting for the newly renovated Snow Road Snowmobile Club clubhouse. Club executive and members were pleased to welcome Gordon Monroe representing the Ontario Trillium Foundation who had made a $60,000 grant in April 2011 to supplement the $24,000 the club had raised with various fundraising events over several years. Early preparation of paperwork by club treasurer Karen Beckwith with assistance from Lanark Highlands Councilor Tom Lalonde and Megan Sargeant in applying for the grant got the major project underway.

Club president, Ruth Wark, pointed out that even with these funds the renovations would not have been possible without the very generous support and donations from local businesses and the multitude of volunteers who turned up week after week, both male and female. Special thanks were given to Crains' Construction for donation and installation of the expanded septic system, which was required to meet new regulations, as well as for the loan of heavy equipment when needed.

Ontario Trillium Foundation representative Gordon Monroe spoke briefly on the Foundation and how it supports projects such as this across the province, and helping update and upgrade community spaces is a major part of their grant activity.

MC Alice Gilchrist, aided by Vice-President Phil Wark, introduced dignitaries from both Lanark and Frontenac Counties who attended the event. Frontenac Warden Janet Gutowski, wearing the full regalia of her office, voiced her support of the club. As a snowmobiler she is well aware of the continuous time and effort needed to maintain club operations. Frontenac County is working towards expanding their multi-use trail systems. North Frontenac Councilor Betty Hunter praised the club for its work and support of charitable organizations in the community. As a regular attendee at club events she noted that everyone is welcomed with a happy smile. Lanark County Warden John Gemmell complimented the club and expressed admiration for the strong volunteer spirit in the community. Deputy Mayor of Lanark Highlands, Brian Stewart, voiced his support for the club and its operations and saying the clubhouse is an excellent emergency shelter. Lanark Highlands Councilor Ken Sinclair was also present. It was gratifying to club members and volunteers to hear the praise and support from both townships and counties.

Current and past club executive, members and volunteers along with snowmobilers from BEAST and Athens were present to enjoy the refreshments and camaraderie. Visitors were impressed with the building upgrades and the extent of the renovations and commitment of the executive and volunteers to bring about the successful conclusion of this major project. The clubhouse now has a capacity of 100, and continues to be available to the community for celebration of life events ranging from baby showers to anniversaries, birthdays, family reunions, retirements, etc.

For those who missed this official opening, you have the opportunity to see the clubhouse this weekend at their first ever Canada Day breakfast on Saturday, June 30 as the club participates in the overall holiday celebrations in North Frontenac and Lanark Highlands.