Paradise to chronicle stories and memories from its seniors

By Mark Squibb | May 27, 2021

The Town of Paradise is a step closer to finalizing some of its 50th anniversary plans.

At its May 18 meeting, council awarded tenders for a mobile mural and video project to coincide with the celebrations.

“Plans are in motion for several events and activities throughout the year to engage the community to celebrate the town’s history,” said Deputy Mayor Elizabeth Laurie.

The mobile mural will be displayed throughout the community.

“The purpose of the project is to invoke a sense of pride and community spirit through art,” said Laurie. “The artist will create design options in collaboration with the subcommittee, while maintaining their own artistic style. There was one submission received.”

Council awarded the tender to the lone bidder, Heather Coughlan for $16,100, HST included.

The town also awarded a tender to WaterWerks Agency for a video project, Stories of Paradise Past.

“As the history of the town is an important part of the community, council, and the committee members will be engaging seniors in a structured storytelling initiative that will facilitate the recording of interesting stories,” said Laurie.

There were two quotes received.

“Both quotes were over the budgeted allotment for this event of the 50th anniversary, however there are funds in the anniversary budget to cover these costs,” said Laurie.

The cost for the video project is $13,800, HST included.

Councilor Sterling Willis took a moment to thank staff for their behind-the-scenes work planning the 50th anniversary celebrations.

“I’d like to throw a bouquet out to staff,” said Willis. “The amount of work staff is putting into this that we don’t see, because they’re working behind the scenes, is unbelievable… This is going to be a fantastic video, listening to older people tell their stories of Paradise.”

The Town of Paradise was officially incorporated on July 13, 1971.