Founded by William Alexander Dempsey in 1949, the Centennial Community and Recreation Association (CCRA) is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary in grand style later this month.
The party's theme is Dancing through the Ages and guests can dance to the music of the last six decades with Brian Rose Little Big Band. As well, Canadian ballroom champions Lynda and John Trommelen will give lessons to first-time dancers, while seasoned ones can learn some new moves.
The party will take place Saturday, March 28, at West Rouge Community Centre, 270 Rouge Hills Dr., starting at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are by advance sale only and are $30 a person or $60 a couple, and include a complimentary cocktail reception, dance demonstrations and instructions. Wine and beer will be available for sale.
Although Dempsey died last year, he left behind a vision for the conservation of South East Scarborough, and the community organization is celebrating its achievements: it has organized and participated in events like Winterfest in January, Earth Day and Birdhouse building in April, Heritage Day in June, and free summer concerts in July.
The association has also contributed to a healthy environment for its residents by making use of land set aside for industrial that is now being used for home development, improving green spaces and developing parks. Currently, the CCRA is advocating for the Port Union Waterfront extension.
The CCRA represents 3,500 homes in the area between Highland Creek, Lake Ontario, Port Union Road and Hwy. 2A.
According to the CCRA, it is the city's oldest continuous association of its kind.
Those interested in attending the anniversary party can contact Heather Lemieux at 416-282-4751 or 416-282-0125 or by e-mail at HeatherLemieux@RoyalLepage.ca.