It was a sweet treat as Southampton Rotary Club hosted a celebration on Wednesday, June 10th in appreciation to donors for the new playground facility that was installed at G.C. Huston Public School, Home of the Hawks, in Southampton (Saugeen Shores).
Among the guests in attendance were Saugeen Shores Mayor Luke Charbonneau, Deputy Mayor Diane Huber, Councilor John Divinski, School Trustee Katie Lutz, former Principal Hugh Morrison, Southampton Rotary Club members and several donors to the project.
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The school long needed new equipment and that’s when the community stepped in and Southampton Rotary Club adopted the project and initiated a community FUNdrasing campaign. Rotarian Dave Bertrand said that Rotary decided to try and raise $85,000, “…the Club celebrated its 85th anniversary and so we thought we would try to raise $1,000 for each year.”
Rotary President Cathy Janveau said, “Not only did we raise $85,000, we far exceeded it and raised more than $130,000 thanks to local businesses and individuals who jumped on board. This project would not have been possible without the many sponsors.”
Former Principal, Hugh Morrison, in an emotional presentation told everyone how he had been a student at the school, then a teacher and, finally, as Principal. “Deputy Mayor Diane Huber and I were students here at the school and we know what a magical place it was.”
“When I think about this project, I think of three words,” he added. “Friendship, fun and gratitude.
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“This kind of thing is not funded by the province so the community came together and made it happen,” said Morrison, “We are so grateful to our many donors that include:
National Bank – $10,000
Doug Johnston of Johnston Realty and partner Jill Roote – $5,000
Jeff Carver of 3 Sheets Brewery – $5,000
Southampton Legion $5,000
Home Hardware -$5,000
Square Deal Neil’s – $5,000
Root’s Gas Bar family – $10,000
The school also raised $30,000 through many activities
Donors present
“There is no doubt that Rotary was the conduit for this project and many more,” added Morrison (also a Rotarian), “but we couldn’t do them without the generosity of our residents and businesses.”
Mayor Luke Charbonneau also praised the community for coming together.
“This is a celebration of this structure and the joy and laughter it brings to our students,”
said Principal Eric Frampton. “Everyday, when I am out here, there are kids playing, no matter what the age. None of this happens without the strong connection we have with the Rotary Club and we are tremendously happy with the leadership and the generous donors we have had and who want to see this place continue to grow. This is an important piece of this community and we look forward to kids playing on this for decades to come.”
