‘We were so proud’
Whitney Pier celebrates 50th anniversary of community rink
It’s been half a century since Whitney Pier’s community rink was built, but Mary Gallivan’s recollection of the community pride over the arena is as clear as ever.
“We were so proud, it was such a great thing for us here in the Pier, so many people worked so hard to get it done,” said the 83-year-old life-long resident of the working class Sydney community.
Gallivan may have hung up her blades two years ago, but there was no way she was going to miss the last public skate of the season, especially as it was a special 50th anniversary celebration of the rink that has served as a vibrant gathering place since its construction in 1967.
On Sunday, she once again made the familiar trip from her Victoria Road home to the nearby rink that been besieged with financial problems since losing its major tenant, Sydney Minor Hockey Association, prior to the 20162017 winter season. “We had a wonderful time here, it was cold, but we dressed for it. Oh yes, we had a wonderful time — the music was beautiful, the ice was always excellent, and we always socialized,” recalled Gallivan, who began skating at the age of four on the old Eastmount rink on Henry Street.
“So, I had to come out and see what was going on and support the rink in some way — we need this rink here so kids don’t have to go far, I never got my driver’s licence until I was 69 so I had lots of practice walking up the hill to the rink and then home again.”
While Gallivan chatted with friends by the glass, sevenyear-old Hanna Howell was among the many who took to the ice for the free skate that also featured hot chocolate, door prizes, and a special appearance by Cape Breton Screaming Eagles mascot Screech.
Hanna didn’t have a lot to say about either the history or the future of the rink, but her wide smile was evident as she skated around the ice with friend and fellow Pier resident Taylor Butler-MacLean.
Hanna’s mother, Natasha, grew up across the street from the rink and still lives within walking distance of the facility.
“For me it’s always been there and I think it’s important for it to stay open. It’s a part of our community, so hopefully they’ll be able to find ways to keep it going,” she said.