Contributed
The Ararat Ruritan Club has had a tremendous first quarter continuing on into the second quarter this year.
In January, a donation was made to the Blue Ridge Elementary School for second semester school supplies. “As the school year progresses, the students need more supplies, and our club is always happy to help the youngsters in our community,” said board member Mary Slate, who also is a teacher at BRES, noted the teachers are appreciative of this gesture. The club will accept donations of school supplies at the July bingo to donate to the school, just in time for the next school year.
In February, the club members assisted with a fundraiser held to help with medical expenses for 18-month old Willow Guynn. This BBQ fundraiser was successful in helping Willow’s family to the tune of nearly $5,000! “It is no secret that our club has the best BBQ in town, and we were honored to be asked to help this family,” said Claude Smith, the club’s resident cooking king.
During the March meeting, Gary Arrington and Bryan Young presented information on the Virginia Hunter’s for the Hungry Program. The Ararat Ruritan Club is pleased to announce a partnership, starting this fall, with this organization. Legally harvested deer in Patrick County can be brought to the club building, as it will be the ONLY collection site in the county. The meat will then be processed and distributed locally to help feed those who are in need.
Speaking of food, the club has also partnered with the Patrick County Disaster Relief Food Ministry. Members are helping with the distribution on the last Saturday of each month held in the parking lot. Jimmy Willard, who is the founder of this food ministry said, “Members of the community can just pull up, provide general household information, and let us load their vehicle for them. They don’t even have to get out of their car.”
Pamela Smith, past president, said she is glad to see the formations of these partnerships. “This year, we decided to partner with Dan River Park for a community Easter Egg Hunt, and it was very successful.” Noting the club just started the egg hunt back up about three years ago after being absent for the community for a few years, the participation was low at the building. “The park was the perfect place, because we could split the age groups and have lots of room. I think the popcorn was a big hit not only for the kids, but also for the parents/grandparents,” continued Smith.
The club voted to assist with purchasing equipment for the spring/summer league baseball teams in the area.
After hearing a very informative spiel from Sally Smith and Debbie Tatum, the club made a donation to their Patrick County Alzheimer’s Group organization. Sally said money donated to them goes right back to help folks in Patrick County.
Local Author Tom Perry is scheduled for his series “Tom Talks History” to start back up this month. Sunday, May 19 at 2:00 his topic will be the White Sulphur Springs and how it ties into local history. This series of programs is free to attend, but donations are accepted to help fund scholarships Perry has started in memory of his parents.
The club will host a breakfast on Saturday, June 1, from 7:30-10:30 a.m. Plates are only $8 ($5 for kids) and will include ham, sausage, eggs, gravy, biscuits, apples, pancakes, and a beverage. The club is offering a free meal to local first responders (fire, rescue, and law enforcement) to show our appreciation to them for all they do!
If you would like to know more about the Ararat Ruritan Club, you are welcomed to come to one of our meetings – 1st Thursdays of each month, 7 p.m., at 4711 Ararat Highway.
