Cape Breton Post

Father knows mess

Victoria Park officers mess hosts Father’s Day event

- BY NIKKI SULLIVAN

The Victoria Park officers mess hosted a Father’s Day social Sunday.

It included snacks, music and a message that the mess isn’t just for officers.

Capt. John Boudreau, a serving member of the Cape Breton Highlander­s, was the host of the Father’s Day event. He says it’s important for people in the community to know their military family.

“We wanted to let people know that the messes are here,” he said. “We are an active part of the community.

“A lot of people in Sydney don’t realize there is a military community here.”

The event was one of many that members or associate members host at the venue and it’s a popular place for weddings and receptions. During the training year, which runs from September until May, the mess is open to the public on Thursday nights and there are special events non-members can attend as well. You can find these events by becoming an associate member or on their Facebook page.

People who aren’t in the military can become associate members by filling out a form and paying an annual fee.

Boudreau and others associated with the Victoria Park officers mess hope by opening it up to the public, they encourage people to get to know their local military personnel and show them support and perhaps give thanks for their service while sharing a drink with them. They believe this helps boost officer morale and helps the community connect with the men and women serving them.

“We wanted to let people know that the messes are here,” he said. “We are an active part of the community.”

Capt. John Boudreau

 ?? NIKKI SULLIVAN/CAPE BRETON POST ?? Baille Ferguson and her partner Michael Arseneau celebrate Father’s Day at the Victoria Park officers mess with their son Simon.
NIKKI SULLIVAN/CAPE BRETON POST Baille Ferguson and her partner Michael Arseneau celebrate Father’s Day at the Victoria Park officers mess with their son Simon.
 ?? NIKKI SULLIVAN/CAPE BRETON POST ?? Singer Mary Beth Carty entertains the crowd during the Father’s Day social at the Victoria Park officers mess.
NIKKI SULLIVAN/CAPE BRETON POST Singer Mary Beth Carty entertains the crowd during the Father’s Day social at the Victoria Park officers mess.
 ?? NIKKI SULLIVAN/CAPE BRETON POST ?? Colin Rankin and Capt. John Boudreau stand behind the bar at the Victoria Park officers mess during a Father’s Day social.
NIKKI SULLIVAN/CAPE BRETON POST Colin Rankin and Capt. John Boudreau stand behind the bar at the Victoria Park officers mess during a Father’s Day social.

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