The Elora Curling Club presented two long-time members of the club the prestigious award of honorary/lifetime member on Oct. 29.
Member Bruce MacEachern presented the award to Ken Gillespie on behalf of the members and executive of the club.
Gillespie has been a very active member of the Elora Curling club for almost 40 years, both curling regularly in league play, bonspiels and interclub competitions, as well as dedicating hundreds of hours over the years to volunteering and building the club’s community.
In addition to being heavily involved as an executive member including 12 years as bar chair, Gillespie was instrumental in the club’s involvement with the International Plowing Match, held in Elora in 2000. Additionally, Gillespie was instrumental in spear-heading the club’s initial application (and subsequent acceptance) of the Elora Curling Club’s liquor licence in 1975.
In a surprise turn of events, upon completion of MacEachern’s speech honoring Gillespie, current club president, Steve Adema, announced that an additional nomination for honorary member was received, and accepted for Bruce MacEachern.
A member since 1975, MacEachern’s passion for the Elora Curling Club and the sport of curling is infectious.
He has been a very strong part of building a community within the club, as well as emphasizing the importance of the club in the area.
MacEachern has been influential in the direction that the club takes, representing the membership on the executive for many year, including two terms as club president the several terms as games and rules chair, and other positions as the need has arisen.
MacEachern’s pride in the Elora Curling Club has greatly influenced other members’ involvement over the years. Adema made mention of the influence that MacEachern has had, including encouraging his daughter and granddaughters in the sport, who are also very active in the club.
Also in attendance at the awards presentation, were Doug and Wilma Schwint, honorary members from 2008.
The Schwints were thrilled to be a part of the presentation and current members were humbled by their presence and continued enthusiasm towards the club.
submitted by Laura MacEachern
