KAWARTHA LAKES-The Burnt River Somerville Community Centre celebrated its 40th anniversary on Sunday.
A number of local residents took part in the celebration. Mayor Doug Elmslie and councillors Pat Warren, Ron Ashmore, and Charlie McDonald were on hand for the event.
MP Jamie Schmale presented the community with a certificate congratulating them on the milestone.
The community centre was made possible by the hard work of the people of Burnt River who raised the money to buy the land and erect the building.
Reg Sheehey was the original President of the Burnt River And District Community Centre Association and played an integral role in getting the community centre off the ground. Members of the original board had to co-sign for the loans required to get the construction started.
One of the most popular events held at the centre was a Wintario broadcast hosted by Faye Dance. Wintario was Ontario’s flagship lottery and began in 1975. Tickets were $1 each, the draws were held every week and the Lottery held live draws in towns around the province. It was broadcast every week from someplace in Ontario. The host community received a grant from Wintario.
The residents of Burnt River have continued to manage the centre over its 40 years hosting an average of 1,000 people per month for things such as quilting groups, play groups, weddings, showers, church dinners etc. As the community lost its elementary school, post office and convenience stores the community centre remains an important anchor for area residents.
Congratulations!
For bookings you can email: [email protected]
