The North Country Cruisers dealt with a very difficult year in 2014, as they lost two of their active members, Tim McAtee and Kenny Smith.
McAtee, who served as the annual Show ‘n Shine coordinator, passed away unexpectedly prior to the Cruisers’ car show in August.
“Organizing the show at the last minute was tough,” said Sheila Murchie, secretary/treasurer of the Cruisers. “But the group members worked together to ensure the show would go on as planned. We never really knew just how much Tim did behind the scenes to prepare for the show.”
Murchie said the group was “enlightened” that week.
“We found out the amount of work that Tim was committed to and had always managed alone,” she said. “His efforts were truly amazing.”
The North Country Cruisers’ Show n’ Shine went off without a hitch.
“The car show was a huge success, as usual,” said Murchie.
To honor their longtime friend and group member, the President’s Award was presented to McAtee’s family in his memory.
A few months later, the Cruisers felt another blow, as another member, Smith, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer.
“Kenny was actively involved in the club and was one of the original ‘charter’ members,” Murchie said. “Both men will be sadly missed by friends and family.”
As the season changed, the North Country Cruisers club members were filled with mixed emotions.
“Though we were saddened by our loss of our friends, at the same time, we were excited about the opportunity before us,” said Murchie. “You see, Tim loved children and worked diligently each year to make sure that area children in need found something under the tree on Christmas morning.”
McAtee organized the Cruisin’ for Tots campaign each year for the North Country Cruisers, so club members rallied together again.
“We found ourselves scrambling to figure out how Tim did it all,” Murchie said. “Our members pulled together once again with a goal of making this the biggest year ever in memory of Tim. And, it clearly was.”
Murchie said that the results were overwhelming and “brought tears of joy” to club members, with well over 300 toys donated and approximately $1,500 in cash to spend on toys on top of the donations.
“It was truly amazing,” she said. “We wish to thank everyone who helped make the Cruisin’ For Kids toy drive a huge success.”
Not only do the North Country Cruisers appreciate everyone who donated money in memory of McAtee and Smith or put a toy in one of the drop boxes or money in their collection cans, but they also are thankful that each year area businesses support their cause.
“We are extremely grateful to those area businesses who allowed us to place our boxes and cans in their establishments,” Murchie said. “This event would not have been possible without the generosity of those in this wonderful community, which we call ‘home,’ and for that generosity, we thank you.”
