The members of the Optimist Club of West Lorne marked their 50th anniversary milestone with a gala evening

Fifty years ago, on June 11, 1975, the West Lorne Optimist Club was formed, sponsored by the Wallacetown Optimist Club.

On Saturday, June 7, members celebrated 50 years in the community by having a gala. Local youth were a huge part of this event, as is usual for the Optimists, from preparing the meal to entertaining us to even acting as our photographer.

Recognition was given to Doug Staddon, who was an original charter member, as well as his wife, Dorothy, who was the first female Optimist member. Several other members with more than 10 years of service to the Optimist Club and this community were also feted.

Earlier in the day, our club also celebrated by putting on its Summer Carnival in Miller Park. The weather was perfect, and it was well attended. Many Optimist members came together to make this all happen. Thank you to our community for coming to celebrate with us! Here’s to another 50 years!

Here are some facts and details from the club’s rich history of serving our community!

Doug Staddon was an original charter member since June 11, 1975.

Dorothy Staddon has been a member since they let women join in 1990. Ken Neil has been a member since 1979. Brad Reive joined the club in 1980. Sadly, we recently........

© Sarnia Observer