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It was a cold stormy day outside but
inside the Four Seasons Lodge hearts were warm as members of
the community, politicians, and club members gathered to celebrate
the official opening of the 3,600 square foot recreational facility.
John Ezzy, project coordinator for the lodge construction, officiated
the ceremony attended by state government officials and Congressman
Michael Michaud of Maine’s 2nd District. With the seats
full and people standing throughout the main room of the facility
Ezzy stated, “Volunteerism sprang to life in this town
like never before and it was not only this project but our sister
project the Four Corners Park as well as the Mustangs Football
Team.” The crowd applauded as Ezzy continued, “These
are great examples of what the dedicated people of Madawaska
can do when we set our minds and muscles to it.”
After
an invocation by Pastor Brown of the Madawaska Gospel Church,
State Representative Ken Theriault of Madawaska presented
a declaration of support and sentiment from the Maine State
Legislature. The document, introduced by Theriault and co-sponsored
by Senator John Martin, was presented to Ross Dubois, Club
President and will be displayed in the lodge.
 Senator
Martin then graciously read a letter from Governor Baldacci
who could not attend because of the snowstorm. In the letter
the Governor stated, “With determination and Yankee
Ingenuity, this community came together to build a treasure
for this generation and future generations of Madawaskans
to enjoy.” After finishing, Martin then offered his
own sentiments about the nature of volunteerism and how important
it is for Valley towns and their viability.
Ezzy
went on to detail the sources of revenue for the building
that included: the Town of Madawaska, the Madawaska Water
District, the Maine Department of Conservation, an interest
free loan from Acadia Federal Credit Union and an astonishing
number of donations. He then handed the microphone over to
Madawaska town manager, Christine Therrien who recognized
the support of the Madawaska Board of Selectmen and town department
heads, including Yves Lizotte of public works who was instrumental
in coordinating ground work for the project. Therrien also
presented a congratulatory plaque from the town to Dubois
to recognize the efforts of the club. As with the first plaque,
the crowd and club members applauded proudly in support. |
 Next,
Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner,
John Richardson spoke of the remarkable amount volunteerism
in the Valley and recognized the volunteer names listed on a
permanent plaque located on the main floor of the lodge commenting
in jest, “I don’t think there are enough Franco
American names on the list!” The jovial crowd once again
broke out into laughter as the Commissioner entertained them
with stories about his positive experiences here in the County.
After
congratulatory comments from Congressman Michaud, Acadia Federal
Credit Union CEO, Dave Desjardin spoke of his organization’s
involvement with the Four Seasons Club and challenged club
members to keep their volunteers stating, “The hardest
part now begins, keep your volunteers and keep the momentum
going!”
A
fifty/fifty drawing organized by Yvon Levesque to support
the purchase of skis for the lodge was drawn by 6-year-old
Isabelle Jandreau, and won by Karen Dubois. Over $1,500 was
raised to place skis in the lodge for those wishing to try
out the trails. Levesque stated that there would be no charge
for using the equipment and that the Maine Winter Sports Center
was supporting and coordinating the purchase of the skis for
delivery next fall. Levesque thanked the many ticket sellers
along with Joe Deschaine for selling over 300 books.
In
Ezzy’s concluding remarks he stated, “The saying
‘the more you give, the more you get’ has certainly
been true in this case. I want to thank everyone who’s
been involved with this project for making it a pure pleasure.
I am proud to have been a part of Madawaska’s finest
volunteer project and you should be, too. Thank you.”
The ceremony concluded with tours of the lodge and refreshments
provided by Café De La Place, Bob’s Service Center,
Paradis Shop N’ Save and Coca Cola Bottling Company.
More information about the project and the upcoming Acadia
FCU Marathon can be found at the club’s website: www.fourseasonstrail.org.
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