“Sidney is my hometown now and I love it.”
With those words, Saanich-Gulf Islands MP Elizabeth May began the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the incorportation of the Village of Sidney on Sunday, Sept. 23.
Sidney, now a town, held a party in Beacon Park, inviting the community to join in and have some anniversary cake.
“I know a lot of us have come from different parts of Canada,” May said, “and I can’t imagine anywhere that has as wonderful a quality of life and wonderful neighbours.”
After some history of the community provided by Graham Debling of the Sidney Museum and Archives, town councillor Steve Price (acting on behalf of an ill mayor Larry Cross) praised the community and its people, then announced the 2012 Community Builder award — whch went to John Bell.
Bell was honoured for his tireless work, fundraising and helping build the Mary Winspear Centre, with which he remains active.
The 60th anniversary party ended with the singing of Happy Birthday, and cake.