FEBRUARY 2004 ISSUE

Well brothers and sisters, what a busy month it has been. Our Committee was active with the Santa Claus parades. The first one was in Thorold and it was cold but very well attended. Next came the first St. Catharines parade. What a surprise for us when we went to the marshalling area and found out we were number four in the parade. Ron was worried that this will cost the Local big time (I hope not). That was a first for us in any parade and it was a great feeling that we got the recognition that we deserve. Niagara-on-the-Lake was our last parade and as in the past, the bus was full. We would like to thank all the members who took time out of their busy schedules to show how committed the Local is to the communities. A very special thanks needs to go to Pat and Stan Sammy, Mary Ann Iker and Gary Bradnam for all their support at this busy time.

The food drive for Community Care was a big success. We donated 986 pounds of food to this agency when they needed it most. The response to our plant gate collection was very overwhelming to say the least. The Local delivered a cheque to Betty Lou Souter for over $19,000. This was their largest single donation for the year. A big thanks to all who donated and to the Santas and elves.

The dinner for the impoverished, which was sponsored by the Locals of the Niagara Region, served over 650 dinners. Thanks to the many volunteers who took time to help out. A big thanks to Bro. Mark Roy for his contribution and efforts to make this event a big success.

We are in the process of organizing another Blues Night on March 13th to support a local charity. Watch for more information to follow.

The elections for the Local’s Standing Committee will be this Spring. Getting involved with a committee can be a very rewarding experience, so consider putting your name forward to help out on the various committees.