On Feb. 18, the Pontiac County Women’s Institute held its annual information day at the Shawville United Church Hall.
The WI is a longstanding organization that works to support the local community, foster the exchange of information and advocate for improvements to benefit the general public.
At their annual information days, the group invites speakers focused around four themes: Education and personal development, agriculture and environment, health and community living, as well as publicity and awareness.
Susanne Gardiner, president of the Starks Corners WI, which makes up part of the Pontiac County group, explained that they’re constantly brainstorming possible speakers.
“We brainstorm all year,” she said. “At our next meeting we’ll discuss how it went today, and we’ll say, keep in mind for the next year, who would be a good topic for here?”
First up was Katharine Summerfield who spoke about her work with the CAP foundation, which fundraises for the long-term care facility in Shawville. She spoke about the ways they make life more enjoyable and comfortable for the residents.
Next, Pontiac High School principal Luke McLaren and outdoor education teacher Jordan Kent spoke about the goings-on at the school, with a particular focus on the evolution of its outdoor education program.
Lindsay Hamilton of Mountainview Turf spoke about women in business and the sod farming industry.
“Before I talk about grass and flowers, I want to talk about something else, I want to talk about women, because I truly believe that women are often the forgotten heroes of business,” she said, discussing the unpaid and underappreciated roles many women take on at work that are essential.
Chutes Coulonge director general Cameron Montgomery gave a presentation on the organization and its plans for the future. She spoke about the site’s historical significance, and highlighted the contributions of Pontiac County WI President Helen Routliffe, who had just stepped down as president of the Chutes board.
After feeding their brains for the morning, attendees were invited to fill up at the sizable luncheon spread.
