“Successful” is probably the most suitable word to use in relation to Botwood’s celebrations of its milestone anniversary and Come Home Year events.
But that’s not the only word that people have been using to describe the town’s collaborative efforts to pull off such a major celebration.
“It’s overwhelming, how many people have taken part, and volunteering. It’s a community effort and everyone is putting every effort into it.”
Those were the words of one volunteer, Botwood resident Bill Chaytor, who was driving a decked-out pickup truck sporting Royal Canadian Legion banners – as used in presentations for their colour party – to help out the Botwood branch of the Legion during the Botwood Day parade on Monday.
“It’s overwhelming, how many people have taken part, and volunteering. It’s a community effort and everyone is putting every effort into it.” - Bill Chaytor
Mr. Chaytor is not a veteran, but he wanted to give the organization a hand anyway.
The parade was among the highlights of the 10-day stretch of festivities combining Botwood’s regular civic celebrations, marking Come Home Year events, the town’s 150th anniversary and 50 years of incorporation.
That’s a lot to celebrate, but the combination of volunteers from all walks of life, from church and service groups to government employees, schools and committed individuals – and the talents all of these people brought along – made for a heady celebration of civic pride, culture and history.
The politicians representing the region had no hesitation in sharing Botwood’s moment in the sun.
