Verona’s new outdoor pavilion

Feb 04, 2010

The new Donna Clarke Pavilion in Verona was completed in January

A new structure now graces the grounds adjacent to the Verona Lions Club, which will soon get a lot community of use come the warmer weather. The open concept building named the Donna Clarke Pavilion originally began as a partnership between the Frontenac Farmers’ Market organization and the Verona Lions Club, and its design and location will serve both groups equally well. The building will function as a space for vendors at the Frontenac Farmers Market, and as the new bingo pavilion during the Lions’ annual jamboree and other annual events like the Garlic Festival. It will be also be available to rent to members of the community for family barbeques, weddings and other special occasions.

Years ago Wayne Conway, president of the Verona Lions, put forth the idea of building a permanent structure adjacent to their hall on Verona Sand Road where for years they have been renting a large tent to house many of their outdoor annual events.

Recently that dream became financially viable thanks to two key developments. The first was a generous bequest left to the Verona Lions Club by the late Donna Clarke, a long-time member of the Verona Lions Club and a much-missed member of the community. The second was a $10,000 grant received by the Frontenac Farmers’ Market through the Frontenac Community Futures Development Corporation, which Conway said, “really helped to seal the deal.”

Once the funding became a reality the Verona Lions set to work and organized a building committee. Conway, along with Lions Frank York and Ken Harper, designed the 30’ x 60’, steel-roofed, open concept wooden framed structure.

A group of Lions and community volunteers assisted with the construction, which began in November when sod was cleared and a gravel foundation laid. In early December the concrete foundation was poured and the wooden structure was assembled. In mid-January the structure was raised with the help of a crane.

The finishing touches to the pavilion will include an electrical system for lights and hook ups for a PA system. There are also plans for a permanent memorial plaque thanking those who made the project possible.

Conway said, "It’s a dream come true.” He wishes to thank the Verona Lions, the Frontenac Farmer's Market, the FCFDC and all of the community members who assisted with the project.

The new building is not only pleasing to the eye but will serve as a valuable community resource for all to enjoy for many years to come.