1998 Volunteer of the Year
THE BRIGHTON INDEPENDENT July 21, 1998
Dr. Cole award presented
by NANCY POWERS The Independent
Brighton Township residents May and Bill Wilson received the first John Cole Award during the celebration of the 10th anniversary of Friends of Presqu’ile on July 18.
The award ceremony was just one part of “Canada’s Parks Day” festivities at Presqu’ile Provincial Park. The Park hosted several events in conjunction with ‘Take A Hike.’
Starting at 10 a.m., four consecutive guided walks were offered, and were designed with the whole family in mind. The hikes focused on the value of Presqu’ile and the role it plays in the system of parks across Canada.
Hikers were encouraged to collect any garbage spot-ted along the way, and prizes were awarded for those doing so.
Between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., volunteer chefs from the Brighton Rotary Club served up hot dogs and drinks, for just a toonie, at the Amphitheatre Campfire Field. Entertainment was provided by local volunteers.
Wildlife Mask Creations, under the direction of Martha Robinson, was an overwhelming success and kept children busy from 1-2 p.m.
The 10th anniversary of Friends of Presqu’ile was celebrated with a giant cake.
May and Bill Wilson were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the park through volunteerism, and accepted the John Cole Award on behalf of all the Park volunteers.
Both the Wilsons are long-time naturalists, with May being an avid bird watcher, as well as an enthusiastic supporter of all Park programs.
Bill is instrumental in acquiring the tangible items needed in the park. His lat-est project was a new boardwalk for Jacob’s Trail.
“If you’ve walked on it or sat on it, then it’s probably been built by Bill,” said Park Superintendent Tom Mates.
Dr. John Cole, who died earlier this year, was the founding Chairman of Friends of Presqu’ile back in 1988. This award was started in Dr. Cole’s name as a last-ing tribute to him.
Along with a framed certificate, the Wilsons received a Lighthouse sculpted at Hoselton Studio in Colborne.
