CLEARLAKE OAKS ? United Methodist Church in Clearlake Oaks celebrated the groundbreaking on the construction of its new community center on Thursday. The new center, to be named the Thornton-Canady Community Center, brings to fruitation the dream of Pastor Bill Thornton, who passed away before his vision could be realized.
About 25 supporters braved the chilling wind to partake in the outdoor event including several members of the church, Dist. 3 Supervisor Denise Rushing, Deputy Redevelopment Director Eric Seely and co-pastors Rick Schlosser and Ruth Canady. Following many years of fundraising and planning, the church is excited to be on the threshold of a new era for the community. “This facility, along with the reconstruction of The Plaza and the new Nylander Park, will make Clearlake Oaks a model for other communities in Lake County,” county Administrative Officer Kelly Cox wrote in a letter relayed at the event by Rushing. “These projects represent just the beginning of what is to come for Clearlake Oaks in the months and years ahead!”
The Thornton-Canady Community Center will provide a venue for a multitude of activities. The 4,350-square-foot facility will include a commercial kitchen, a 20×20 reading room that will double as a place for senior respite care; and a 50×54 recreation room will provide for sports activities, plays, dances, weddings and other events.
“This is a real honor. When we first came here Bill had a vision,” said Associate Pastor Canady, adding what a pleasure it is to see her late husband”s dream become a reality.”
The support of the community was continually commended during the ceremony. “None of this would be possible without the community involvement and support and the United Methodist Church has been exemplary in demonstrating an extraordinary ability to make the community”s dreams become realities,” Cox wrote.
“I cannot give enough praise to the church leaders and church members who have made this project possible. The renaissance that Clearlake Oaks is undergoing is a direct result of this community”s resolve. I am confident that Pastor Bill Thornton is looking down upon those gathered at The Plaza today with a smile on his face.”
Supervisor Rushing added her own sentiment. “I am continually awed by the power of the heart and when people decide to come together, what can happen,” she commended.
Senior Pastor Rick Schlosser, who opened and closed the ceremony in prayer, highlighted the will of his church members. “One of the things that amazing me about this church is their commitment to make this place a better place,” he said.
The total cost of the project is estimated at $300,000 excluding the state-of-the-art commercial kitchen. Funds were raised through community and volunteer efforts as well as a loan from the California/Nevada Conference of the United Methodist Church in West Sacramento.
Plans are to begin construction as soon as possible as weather permits. The pre-constructed building is expected to be in place sometime in January after which volunteers will work on the interior and install the commercial kitchen.
Fund-raising efforts continue and the church welcomes donations as well as volunteer laborers.
Those who would like to assist in the project may contact church treasurer Margaret Medeiros at 998-9563; or Associate Pastor Ruth Canady at 928-4453.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
