The Basilica Recreation Centre — Befbre and Afi‘er

Another headline read: “FOUR-POINT PROGRAM PLANNED FOR CENTRE’S YOUTH ACTIVITIES”

“Youth activities at St. Dunstan’s Recreation Centre will follow a general four- point program. Jack Ready, Center director hopes to put into operation a program divided into physical, cultural, intellectual, and spiritual aspects.

“The clergy will look after the spiritual activities, but Mr. Ready was able to outline several projects under the other three aspects that he hopes will be put into operation.

Physical or athletic activities will of course include basketball and volleyball in the auditorium that is also suited for gym classes. Dances will be held in the auditorium with the BYC group on Friday nights and the college age group on Saturday nights. Record hops will be held in the afternoon.

“In addition to social dancing, it is hoped that dancing classes will be held. A glee club will probably be formed and there is a great potential for a drama club. Later in the season it is expected that classes will be held in handcrafts, public speaking, and parliamentary procedure.

“Recreation is not the only activity to which the center is suited. When the centennial year 1964 * arrives the ample facilities of the building will be

well suited as a location for the many conventions slated for the City. At

this time the building will be able to serve both as a meeting place and as a caterer for large groups. Smaller groups such as wedding banquets will also be accommodated. ”

As the planning committee’s responsibilities ended, Eugene Cullen took over from Matt Hagen as board chair to oversee the operations and administration of the Rec Centre, as it was frequently called. A director for the center was selected by open competition. When the candidates were narrowed down to the final two, we realized that we needed both. Jack Ready, who later became Mayor of Charlottetown, was appointed executive director because of his

* This refers to the 100th anniversary of the first meeting of the Fathers of Confederation. Canada’s centennial celebrations followed in 1967.

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