MINTO – Four local organizations will split $14,000 from the proceeds of the 2022 Minto Mayor’s Charity Golf Tournament.
Representatives of Minto Pride and town’s three downtown revitalization organizations, Clifford Connects, Harriston Rising and All Aboard Palmerston, were on hand for the announcement at the Sept. 20 council meeting.
Minto revenue co-ordinator Tawyna Robertson pointed out the tournament originated during Mayor George Bridge’s first year on the job, when he approached former Minto treasury department employee Janet Klemp with an idea for an annual charity golf tournament to raise money for various community groups.
Sharing the wealth – Proceeds from the Minto Mayor’s Golf Tournament were presented to four community groups, which will split $14,000, at the Sept. 20 council meeting. From left: Terry Cormack of All Aboard Palmerston, Samantha Greer of Minto Pride, Mayor George Bridge, Kathie Butcher of Harriston Rising and Alexis Rock, Alicia Becker and Courtney Dowling of Clifford Connects. Submitted photo
Bridge did not stand for reelection in 2022.
“Together, you and Janet have run 12 very successful tournaments and have built a loyal following of golfers, donors and volunteers,” said Robertson.
“The tournament is always full, sometimes even over-full, which is a testament to the time and effort that you put in each and every year to make the tournament, the best it can be,” Robertson added.
Since its inception, the tournament has raised over $130,000 for 42 community groups “to aid them in projects that have helped to make our community a wonderful place to live and work,” Robertson pointed out.
“Proceeds from this tournament have funded murals in downtown Harriston, equipment upgrades for various minor sports organizations, education and awareness initiatives for Minto Mental Health, the Canada Packers and Clifford Homecoming reunions, just to name a few.
“Everywhere you look in our towns you can see you the impact that you and this event have made,” Roberston told Bridge and Klemp.
“It’s great that we’ve been able to do this over my 12 years as mayor,” said Bridge, adding “I’m sure our new mayor will keep it going.”
After jokingly offering, “I think so,” deputy mayor Dave Turton, who has been acclaimed mayor for next term of council, confirmed plans to continue with the event.
“Mayor Bridge we certainly would like to thank you as well. Twelve years, and you’ve had different councils, but I know the council has supported you right from day one – so thanks a lot,” said Turton.
‘Biggest advocate’
“I just want to say thank you so much. You have been our biggest advocate for Minto Pride and you’re always in our corner,” Minto Pride committee member Samantha Greer told Bridge.
“And to the town council members, thank you for voting for our inclusivity crosswalk … I just can’t tell you what a wonderful sense of community it’s brought.”
