Editor: The fierce storm Saturday took the Lower Mainland by surprise with its power outages, downed trees and extreme wind.
But tucked away from the blustering elements there was a celebration going on at 鈥淭he Paddington,鈥� at 5650 201A St., in the City of 91原创.
About 50 people were in attendance for the first annual block party, hosted by owners Donna Francis and Donna Moore.
Save On Foods manager Chris Whymark and assistant manager, Dean, were there, bright and early, with their tent, barbecue and hot dogs to help residents enjoy the day.
Homelife Titus Realty was also in attendance, with their contribution of delicious desserts, pop and chips. Homelife Mascot Gerome the Gnome gave out free hugs, and suckers to all.
The auxiliary police also attended the event, supplying safety tips and fun tattoos and stickers.
Several items were also brought for the food bank.
Two amazing 10-year-old girls did face painting and the colouring contest was won by two-year-old Khloe Newell.
The smell of fresh popcorn, supplied by Nolan Francis, filled the air.
The block party wouldn鈥檛 have been complete without music and dancing in the streets, hosted by resident Candis Newell.
Deborah Lee, also an owner, showed up with goodie bags for all the kids.
Partiers noticed a couple of strong gusts of wind and a bit of rain, but somehow remained unscathed by the elements.
The silver lining to this story is the many friendship that were kindled and the outcry of gratitude from people being brought together.
One resident donated a 50-inch TV to the amenities room and talk was already in session about having a kids movie and popcorn event.
It wasn鈥檛 till people were leaving at 5:30 p.m. that they realized the amount of destruction that had happened outside.
Looks like the Paddington may be the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Donna Moore,
91原创
