Community Cultural Organizations
Heritage Committee
Committee Chair: Lorna English
The Branch Cultural Historic Association works with the residents, community groups and provincial organizations to ensure that the traditions and heritage of Branch are not forgotten. They have contributed a noteworthy collection to memorial University and continue to work on initiatives focusing on both tangible and intangible culture and heritage. Each year, the committee hosts a fabulous festival, bringing together talented musicians and artists. In 2011, the festival will be held in Branch on July 29, 30 and 31.
Recreation Committee
Committee Chair: Kelly Power
The Branch Recreation Committee is responsible for the coordination of activities in Branch that provide opportunities for residents of all ages to interact in fun and innovative ways. They have hosted events such as the Well Teen Club, Books for babies and sports activities. Each year, they recognize special events such as the Santa Claus parade and Halloween with parties for children in the community. The committee recently organized a series of events for older adults and are now working to revitalize the community playground.
Singing Kitchen
Committee Chair and Chef Extraordinaire: Laura Nash
The Singing Kitchen is just what the name implies! Each winter, the community gathers biweekly for a big feed and a good chat. A team of volunteer cooks and servers prepare a home-cooked meal that is served to, on average, 130 residents form Branch and surrounding communities. The singing takes many forms a song offered, a slide show depicting memories of years past or a chat with a neighbor they haven't seen in a while.
Fire Department
Fire Chief: Alfred Mooney
The Branch Volunteer Fire Department is a key component of community safety. Comprised of approximately 20 volunteers, the fire department responds to fires in the community when necessary. In recent years, great strides have been made in acquiring new and necessary fire equipment. At present, the department is exploring the possibility of acquiring equipment to respond to fires on boats of the community.
War Memorial Committee
Committee Chair: Kelly Power
Branch is proud to say that many of the men and women who fought in both world wars and the Korean Conflict made their home in our community. To honour this, the War Memorial Committee maintains the local war memorial and associated flags. In addition, they host a meaningful service each year on November 11th.
Harbour Authority
Committee Chair: Roy Careen
The Branch Harbour Authority works with local fisherman to ensure that the Harbour (also known as The Gut) is suitable and safe for mariners. They advocate on behalf of fishermen when necessary, and provide general direction when it comes to fishery related matters in Branch.
Grievance Committee
The Branch Bereavement Team responds to the death of a loved one in the community in a way that can only be described as beautiful. They organize and prepare a large-scale meal and reception for family members and the community following the funeral of a loved one. This gesture is recognized by families, who are so thankful and happy to gather and remember.
Branch Hall Walkers Club
Committee Chair: Laura Nash
The Hall Walkers gather together twice per week during the cold winter evening and walk, skip, jump to get in their physical activity. They do all of this while listening to some toe-tapping music and checking their pedometers!
Branch Roundtable
Four times each year, these groups, who bring vitality and ideas to Branch, gather together to share and learn from one another in the Branch Roundtable (an idea brought to us by the wonderful John McKnight).