Bandstand Strikes Community Chord (Correction)

CORRECTION: To news release originally transmitted Sept. 10 -- event date should read Sunday, Sept. 13.

Community spirit has reached a new high in the village of Kingston. At 2 p.m. this Sunday, Sept. 13, the town crier will gather citizens and visitors in Centennial Park to celebrate the completion of the village bandstand. And what a party it promises to be.

After the traditional blessing and official speeches, the 14 Wing Greenwood Volunteer Band will fill the air with music, the Mary's Islanders Irish Dancers will kick up their heels, followed by the soulful voices of Pictou's rock gospel group Manna. The Kingston Lions Club and the Western Kings Arena Committee will provide refreshments.

After months of planning and volunteer labour, the people of Annapolis Valley's "Friendly Village" are ready to celebrate.

"Everybody got behind the project," said Tom Beardsley, chairman of the village commission. "The Kingston Lions Club, the Steer Barbecue Committee, the Centennial Park Committee, the Kings Community Economic Development Agency, and the labour of many skilled community volunteers made it happen.

"But without the financial support of Nova Scotia Economic Development and Tourism, the project couldn't have happened," he said. "Community contributions of funds and labour were terrific, but it wasn't enough."

Through the Community Opportunities Fund, the province provided $17,200 toward the $34,500 price-tag of the bandstand and landscaping.

"Staff at Economic Development and Tourism's head office in Halifax and their Kentville Business Service Centre couldn't have been more helpful with advice on getting this project approved and under way," said Mr. Beardsley

"It's truly a community project," said village commissioner Doug Beaman, who managed the site during planning and construction. "With a permanent outdoor village square' entertainment area, near the arena, Centennial Park now boasts a venue for exhibitions, concerts, hymn sings and shows that will boost tourism in the village, and that leads to economic growth for the village."

Added Mr. Beardsley: "This is just the beginning. The community is energized by the interest, energy and community spirit sparked by building the bandstand. There are some finishing touches we'd like to make to Centennial Park and some new ideas brewing to further the development of the Kingston."