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Ladysmith, BC — The Town of Ladysmith will celebrate the legacy of former Mayor Kathleen “Kay” Grouhel during a special public ceremony on Thursday, October 2 at 11:00 am at Transfer Beach (Upper Pavilion).
The ceremony will feature the unveiling of a historical interpretive sign that highlights Grouhel’s life and efforts in shaping some of Ladysmith’s defining amenities, including Transfer Beach. There will also be remarks from Mayor Deena Beeston and reading of a commemorative poem.
Grouhel became Ladysmith’s first female mayor in 1964 and was instrumental in making Transfer Beach a reality by negotiating land purchases that led to the park’s creation.
“Without Mayor Grouhel’s leadership and vision, Transfer Beach would not be the jewel that it is today. It is only fitting that we honour her legacy with an interpretive sign in the very place she envisioned years ago,” says Mayor Deena Beeston.
Earlier this year, the Town invited residents of Ladysmith and the Stz’uminus First Nation to submit poems recognizing Grouhel’s work. The winning poem, written by Shelley A. Leedahl, was chosen by the Town’s Selection Committee and is featured on the interpretive sign. A line from the poem is also stamped onto two nearby concrete planters.
“Leedahl’s poem was chosen for its remarkable ability to capture the full essence of Mayor Grouhel’s enduring contributions to the community and the waterfront,” says Don Stewart, the Town’s Arts, Culture & Events Coordinator.
During Grouhel’s 12-year tenure as mayor, she led other major projects, including the fire hall and public works buildings, the Town’s first new fire truck in years, Dogwood tree plantings, and downtown sidewalk improvements, which earned her the nickname “Concrete Kay.”
“This ceremony is an opportunity for the community to come together and recognize Grouhel’s lasting impact on Ladysmith. We encourage everyone to take part in the celebration,” says Nicholas Pescod, the Town’s Communications & Engagement Specialist.
About Kathleen ‘Kay’ Grouhel
Kathleen ‘Kay’ Grouhel was Ladysmith’s first female mayor after she was elected in 1964 following a brief stint as an alderman. She also became the first female president of the Union of BC Municipalities in 1974. During her time as mayor, Grouhel played an integral role in the vision of Transfer Beach by successfully negotiating land purchase agreements with Canadian Collieries and Canadian Pacific, which led to the acquisition and eventual creation of Transfer Beach Park.
About Shelley A. Leedahl
Shelley A. Leedahl is a professional writer with thirteen critically well-received books. Originally from Saskatchewan, Leedahl moved to Ladysmith in 2014. She’s a runner, hiker, and kayaker, and Holland Creek Trail and Transfer Beach Park are her touchstones.
Poem: Gratitude (For Kay Grouhel, Ladysmith Mayor 1964-1975)
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The Town of Ladysmith respectfully acknowledges that we gather and work on the unceded territory of the Stz'uminus First Nation, the traditional keepers of this land.
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Media Contact Nicholas Pescod Communications & Engagement Specialist npescod@ladysmith.ca 250-268-0606 Related Media: Former Mayor Kathleen ‘Kay’ Grouhel (Town of Ladysmith)