R Clay introduced President Stewart Sharp of the Brighton Legion 100. Stewart worked at GM's Truck Plant until he retired and spent a few years at the cottage north of Bancroft before coming to Brighton about 10 years ago. Stewart joined the Legion executive about 5 years ago and this year became the President.
Stewart loves Brighton, the people and volunteers at the Legion.
When he took the role of President in May, it felt like he was given the keys to the Titanic. The Legion has mounting issues, particularly with the roof. This past winter ice build up caused substantial leaks through their flat roof. They are investigating options and getting quotes, but the fix will be about $50,000.
The Legion's main fund raising cannot be used for building maintenance. For the first time, they have reached out to the public for help. Already they have through many small donations raised about $10,000. They need the full $50,000 before starting as the work will not take long to complete and payment will be do.
Brian shared that the Legion gets many of the same requests for support as Rotary. Their lottery fund has specific rules how the money can be spent. Not on building maintenance. He noted that expenses have gone way up over the years for heat and hydro .
Paul shared that he was new to the executive. He was impressed by what the Legion does for the community and for veterans. All poppy funds go to veterans.
A Cheque for $10,000 was presented from Rotary to the Legion to help with their roof fund.
R Dan thanked Stewart with an apple.