Newspaper article titled Orrie Collins, Innisfil's Citizen of the Year 1977 by Judi Shields. The Citizen of the Year award was selected by the Innisfil Chamber of Commerce. A founding member of the Innisfil Lions Club, Collins moved to Alcona in 1972. He was a strong advocate for sports and activities aimed at the youth of Innisfil. Full Text: Orrie Collins - Innisfil\u2019s Citizen of the Year\nby Judi Shields\nOrrie Collins was selected Monday night as Innisfil\u2019s Citizen of the Year. Collins, an Alcona resident since 1972, was selected from among nine nominees for the annual award of the Innisfil Chamber of Commerce.\nIn making the selection, members of the chamber pointed out many contributions Collins has made to the township through his affiliation in the Innisfil Lions Club. They noted he was the founder of the five-year old club and its president.\nThe Chamber also noted Collins had been instrumental in initiating a successful roller skating program at the Stroud - Innisfil Recreation Complex throughout the summer months. In addition it was observed that as a result of the work of the Innisfil Lions Club, Bingo is held every Saturday night in the Alcona Hall, through the summer.\nThe chamber considered Collins\u201d continual contribution to fund raising events sponsored by the Lions, in particular the regular performance of the Carleton Showband at the Stroud complex.\nCollins has also been a member of the executive of the Stroud Minor Hockey Association and was a coach for one season.\nWhen contacted in his home in Stroud, Collins was surprised at his selection. He expressed concern that he was selected from a group of other contributors whom he felt were likely more deserving of such an honor. \nCollins gave credit too, to the many members of the Innisfil Lions Club who have worked as hard on the many club projects. \n\u201cI work to keep the kids off the streets and help young people,\u201d he said, drawing attention to the fact that every reason outlined by the Chamber for his selection, was in aid of the youth of the township. \nCollins' wife, Lorraine, noted he has always been extremely involved in sports and youth work prior to moving here from Islington five years ago. She explained that he could have joined the Barrie Lions Club, but when he saw how few activities there were in Innisfil for youth, he decided to form an Innisfil Lions Club, himself.\nThe move to Innisfil was well-planned by the Collins family. Tired of the pace he had kept with a 25-year position with a Toronto type engraving company, Collins purchased a large piece of land in Alcona and on it built his own home. He took quite a cut in salary with his move here but also escaped the deadlines he had come to know so well. He is presently happily employed as a custodian with the Simcoe County Board of Education at Eastview Secondary School.
