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Community Center |
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The McDonald Community Center came about in November 1996. Nearly two years before, McDonald had an elementary school until the school board decided it was time to close the school, midyear. McDonald Elementary School was the "heart of the community" with the Ruritan, then known as the McDonald Ruritan Club, standing behind the school and devoting a lot of time and funding. The club did not want to see the school building go to waste and negotiated with the county to obtain a lease and create a community center. Over the years the club has devoted a lot of time and funding into the school building. In 2011 the club made the decision to allow the county to permanently board the old school up and prepare it for demolition. This decision was not an easy one. The county did not want to put any funds into repairing the roof of the school which was in dire need. But not all is lost as the McDonald-Black Fox Ruritan Club will be gaining the former school's gymnasium and two portable buildings located next door. As a tribute to the school, the club has decided to hold a fundraiser by selling bricks from the school once it is demolished. The proceeds from the sale of the bricks will go towards the upkeep of the gymnasium as well as the idea of a park and walkway. Any alumni, teachers, staff and others interested in getting their name on the list can contact a club member or send an email to secretary@mcdonaldblackfoxruritan.org Alumni, Teachers, Staff and citizens of the community are encouraged to become a part of this positive transition with their input, ideas, suggestions, & other contributions. This is a community effort that cannot be completed with the support of the McDonald-Black Fox Ruritan alone. The club would like to see the community take advantage of the wonderful opportunities the gymnasium holds such as an annual flea market/indoor yard sale, after school program, community festival, etc.
A special Thank You goes out to Jim & Doris Armour, members of the club who have devoted 13 years of their time to maintaining the school building and gymnasium.
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