WBAY-TV Green Bay-Fox Cities-Northeast Wisconsin News: Community Celebrates New Civic Center

Community Celebrates New Civic Center

by Jeff Alexander

Thanks to a big donation from a Weyauwega dentist who passed away more than 20 years ago, a Waupaca County community has a new civic center.

Today marked the grand opening of the Manawa Masonic Center.

Hundreds of Manawa residents joined local masons this afternoon for the consecration ceremony. The new 12,000 square foot center is now a fixture in Manawa because of the generosity of the late Dr. Clifford Seelig, a mason himself.

Tom Squires, most whorshipful master lodge, says, "the masonic community will forever be in indebted for his contribution to the masonic fraternity."

Not only do masons have a new lodge, the community now has a place to gather for a variety of events throughout the year.

Rep. Kevin Petersen, a republican representing the 40th Assembly District, says, "if you look at Manawa, Waupaca County, state of Wisconsin on a map, it's just a flat geometric shape, but it truly is all of you here today that make this a wonderful community."

Elected officials attending the ceremony praised all that the masons stand for, and their positive impact in communities. Guided by moral principles, they strive to help the suffering and foster friendships among all people.

Sen. Luther Olsen, a republican representing the 14th Senate District, says, "you know it's too bad that everyone in the world does not really take those to heart and live by the principles of the masonic lodge, and the men in those lodges because our world would be a much better place."

Dr. Seelig's donation will also fund scholarships for students at every high school in Waupaca County.