The paper’s 40th Anniversary Gala on March 9 was notable for a number of reasons.

Over 200 people were brought together from different cultures and walks of life. In many ways, it was like a mini-version of Boyle Street and McCauley, right there in one room.

We were all there to celebrate one main thing: four decades of Boyle McCauley News. The paper’s impact on the community was evident in the response from organizations and businesses which sponsored tables, allowing many of our past and present volunteers to attend.

Representatives from all levels of government, including two Ministers (the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Natural Resources and the Honourable Brian Mason, who is now retired) and Mayor Don Iveson, as well as the new Chief of Police were there to show support.

The paper is recognized not only in the area, but throughout the city as being an integral part of the community. Looking at the diverse group that filled the room at the Santa Maria Goretti Centre, I was again reminded about how Boyle McCauley News is more than a newspaper – it’s a community builder. It creates connection, by giving people in the area a voice in the media. It is a source of important information about community news and programs. It presents the inner city in a positive and unique way to the rest of the city.

Most of all, it brings together our volunteers, who are the backbone of the paper. I am so glad that we could all celebrate together.