Our latest adventure, as is the case at this time of year, was our participation in the Newcastle Santa Claus Parade on November 19. Unlike many other area parades, ours is held just after dark, so that all can enjoy the fireworks which kick off the event! Our float was “created” by several dedicated members of the Society and our overall participation was coordinated by member, Shellie Jackson, as she has done in past years, as well.
With the generous support of the proprietors of Foodland Supermarket and our own Dollar Plus store, we had over 1,500 candy canes to distribute to the kids along the Parade route. With my wife, Rosemary, and Shellie, we valiantly tried to keep up with a fast-moving parade while keeping the kids happy. It took some doing and, early on, I lost sight of our Float altogether as I was mobbed by the kids!
Recently, your Society hosted a group of ladies from the Ebenezer United Church in Courtice. They had expressed an interest in what we do and in our Historical Room on the ground floor of the Newcastle Community Hall. The event went very well and I believe the group enjoyed their visit. Present on behalf of the Society were Directors Erla Jose and Myno Van Dyke and the three of us spoke to the ladies. Also present were two other Directors, Greg Forget and Sher Leetooze, and a past President, Leslie Wilson, so no questions went unanswered. Our presentation was followed by a brief tour of parts of the Community Hall itself.
The success of this event spawned an idea! In 2018, why not plan a series of similar visits by interested groups or individuals to our Historical Room and, with the consent of Building Management, follow our presentation with a tour of parts of the Building. These events on selected dates would be advertised in local papers, periodicals and, by arrangement, promoted by local organizations. In addition to this idea, we are currently mapping out those activities your Society will participate in or offer during 2018, including two General Meetings with speakers.
At our Annual General Meeting scheduled for March 27, 2018, our financial report for the calendar year 2017 will be presented for approval of the membership. As a businessman, I can say that your Board of Directors has exercised a commendable degree of fiscal responsibility during the year. We remain grateful for member support with annual dues and for donations. And, the annual operating cost grant from the Municipality is most appreciated.
Finally, as I have mentioned in past reports such as this, we do have a vacancy on our Board. I would be more than happy to meet with any interested member who might wish to serve on the Board. We are not particularly seeking someone steeped in local history; rather, a dedicated and interested person willing to participate in Society activities would be most welcome.
Compliments of the Season. Hope Santa is good to you!!
Regards,
Bob Malone, President