The floor was leveled and supports installed, the roof was shingled, the kitchen remodeled, equipped and an electric stove purchased, curtains were acquired for the stage and stage sides, new wall paneling was installed, the floor was carpeted, blinds and curtain hung 75 stacking chairs were purchased and in 1995, the hall was repainted The cost of maintaining the school and the hall proved to be a serious financial drain on the W.I. In 1980, the decision was made to sell the school to Mrs. Joanne (Maynard) Schurman for use as a craft shop. In the 1980's, Sterling Women 's Institute had less than twenty active members. Where did the money come from? Card parties, bake sales and donations raised some of the necessary funds, but always there was the need for additional money. On September 2, 1978 the community of Stanley Bridge celebrated the opening of the newly constructed Stanley Bridge . A parade, regatta, and fine speeches were the order of the day. A community barbecue on the grounds of the newly acquired Women 's Institute Hall completed the festivities. To coincide with these celebrations a new tradition was started. With help from surrounding communities and local talent a variety concert, which ran for two nights, was staged in the hall. The concert was a great success and with these proceeds and each year thereafter, the profits from these concerts secured the funding for the necessary repairs to the W.I. Hall . More impor¬ tantly, from an historic point of view, the Women 's Institute has preserved for posterity a land¬ mark that is part of our community identity. STERLING W.I. INVOLVEMENT IN EDUCATION School districts with active Institute involvement greatly advanced the quality of education in the rural schools. The commitment of Sterling Women 's Institute was notable in this regard. The well-being and education of children was of paramount consideration, and accordingly the necessary funds were always made available to meet the request of the teacher or complete a project. Stanley Bridge School was visited by W.I. Members from 1913 to the school closure in 1976, for a period of sixty-three years. The members, usually two or three, were invited to observe the class being taught and took note of any requirements needed by the teacher. Over this peri¬ od of time the Institute played a major supportive role in a variety of ways that aided both stu¬ dents and teachers. The close association between the teachers and W.I . members provided valuable communica¬ tion about events and happenings in the school. The cooperation of the W.I . members, usually parents, was much appreciated. Teachers could count on help with costumes and singing prac¬ tice for the Christmas concert, as well as Santa Claus treats of candy and fruit. On Valentine's Day heart-shaped cookies or a beautifully decorated cake would help to make the day special for the students. On cold winter days the students appreciated the hot cocoa or soup supplied by the W.I. Over the years the W.I . would take responsibility for much needed school supplies, teaching aids and renovations for their district school. School supplies such as chalk, board erasers, maps, globes, drinking fountain, pencil sharpener, clock, sandtable, science lab, radios, window blinds, cocoa mats, swings for playground, book care and work books accounted for the smaller items. New student desks, a teacher's desk, new floor tiles, redecorating (which included paint- 173