The couple moved from Metairie to relocate in Washington Parish in 1987. Claire taught at Thomas Junior High the 1988-1989 school year and was then eligible to retire.
As a teacher, she found herself in charge of the school
 Claire and Larry McGuire 2009 Mile Branch Honorees Courtesy photo Advertisement |
In the next two years she found herself as a “porch lady” when she was asked by Marguerite Lapani, who was the chairman of that committee. Claire then volunteered at the Bankston Store and baked breads to sell in the store.
She got her husband, Larry, to join her at the monthly Mile Branch Settlement meetings. Larry volunteered in the store and in the Fleming Barn. He served as treasurer for three years, became vice-president in 2003 and chairman in 2004. Today he is now a co-chairman of the syrup mill.
The couple continued to get more involved with the Mile Branch Settlement. Claire was chairman of the Christmas ornaments and later moved on to the Bankston Store where she has been chairman since 1996. She manages to bake at least 36 breads, including her famous strawberry bread, just before the fair.
In 2003 she found time away from the store to enter the Senior Ladies Promenade and came in second in the 60-74 year old category.
Though at the end of the Fair they are tired, the McGuires enjoy the Mile Branch Settlement because it gives them time to meet old friends and greet many visitors who attend the fair during the four days in October.
The Mile Branch Settlement Committee appreciates their effort and this is their way of saying thank you to the McGuires for their tireless effort in volunteering during the year.
The Claire and Larry McGuire were also honored as the 2008 Franklinton Citizens of the Year, a program sponsored by The Daily News.
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