May 22, 2014


Few can boast of offering a free service to members of their community for over four decades, and because Barb Garrison of Harrowsmith is not someone to boast, Brenda Taylor took it upon herself to recognize the fact that Barb has served as hall keeper for the Golden Links hall in Harrowsmith since it was constructed there 41 years ago.

At their monthly roast beef fundraiser, which took place on May 18, Brenda briefly interrupted the diners to announce the special presentation and recognition of Barb’s 41-year service to the community. She presented Barb with a plaque on which was mounted a large key and an inscription.

Both Barb and Brenda are long-time members of the Rebekahs in Harrowsmith and in fact it was Barb and her late husband Gerald, who was an Oddfellow, who donated the land to the Oddfellows and Rebekahs so they could build a new hall after their former hall burned down in 1972. After the new hall was built, both Barb and Gerald were elected to sit on the board. When the board needed someone to look after hall rentals Barb offered to do the job and has been doing it ever since.

Barb said during her term the hall was often rented for monthly dances, Jack & Jills, wedding receptions and other social events. Barb said that she has greatly enjoyed meeting people from in and around the community.

Barb decided to turn in her keys after she moved to Sydenham last November and would no longer be living in close proximity to the hall.

Brenda Taylor will taking over the role but said, “There is no way that I will be around for another 41 years to match Barb's term.”

Barb said that she will continue to make regular appearances at the hall both as a Rebekah and to attend the regular fundraising events there. She was pleasantly surprised by the recognition, and her family, who knew about the presentation in advance, were able to be present.

The Golden Links hall can be rented by groups and or individuals for any number of social events and functions. For more information contact Brenda Taylor, the new Keeper of the Key at 613-372-2410.

 

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