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Mayor Trasolini kicks off the Old Mill Boat House construction, showing off his Rowing, Sailing and Paddling Centre shirt !

After 30 years of efforts by various clubs, organizations and individuals, Mayor Joe Trasolini today formally pronounced the commencement of construction of the Old Mill Boathouse at Rocky Point Park !

    With a large crowd of members, dignitaries and supporters, Ron Reichelt kicked off the days events introducing the project, and welcoming everyone to the official ground breaking ceremony. Ron provided some background on the project and the people involved, and thanked everyone for their support, in particular, the corporate sponsors, for making this dream a reality.
    The podium was then turned over to Mayor Trasolini, who proudly showed off his Port Moody Rowing, Sailing and Paddling Centre / Old Mill Boathouse T-Shirt - with the crowd showing their appreciation of the mayors support, and sense of humour ! The Mayor remarked on the history of the Old Mill Boathouse project, dating back to 1971 (yes, 30 years ago), and the remarkable perserverance and dedication of those involved in the project to bring it to fruition. Mayor Trasolini also thanked the corporate sponsors, individually, and the others involved in the development of the project from idea to reality. A special mention was made of the Port Moody City Council, without whom this project would never have been possible, naming those in attendance (Counc. Bob Brown, Counc. Art Wilkinson and Counc. Rick Nelson) and also thanking those who were not able to attend.

    Mayor Trasolini then turned the podium over to Gordon Clay, President of the Port Moody Rowing, Sailing and Paddling Association. Gordon re-iterated Mayor Trasolini's comments about the gratification of seeing a 30 year project finally coming to be, and thanked all of the supporters of the project for their dedication.
   
Gordon pointed out that this site and building had the potential to be truly world class facility, and could really help to put Port Moody on the map for Olympic training and hosting of international events. He also pointed out that this facility, while being 'driven' by the rowing, sailing and paddling centre, was being built with the intention of being used by all members of the community, and will be a central showpiece for Rocky Point Park.
  Gordon then individually introduced and thanked the directors of the PMRSPC, and acknowledged the tremendous amount of support the group has received from the city, and in particular, Ron Reichelt.
    Mayor Trasolini then introduced the dignitaries that would be involved in the official ground breaking ceremony, who then proceed to turn the official 'first shovels':

Pictured, from left: Ron Simpson
Counc. Rick Nelson
Counc. Bob Brown
Gordon Clay
Laura Tiddal (Royal Bank)
Mayor Trasolini
Counc. Art Wilkinson
Craig Lockhead (Carrera Barkley Dev)
A brief tour of the site was then conducted. The preparation work for the footings and foundations are currently underway, and the contractor is busy installing drainage tiles and plumbing in preparation for the pouring of the concrete. Mayor Trasolini indicated the city is hopeful for completion of the project late winter, early 2002.