Valley East

The settlement in this area goes all the way back to 1904 when the Hanmer Township was incorporated. In 1906, the Blezard Township was incorporated and the area we now know as Valley East began developing on two fronts. Over time, the settlements grew into the villages known as Hanmer, Val Therese, Val Caron, Blezard Valley, Guietteville, and McCre... a Heights. These villages were were amalgamated in 1968 and became the Township of Valley Eas...t. With the advent of Regional Government in 1973, we became known as the Town of Valley East. In 1998 we were officially incorporated as the City of Valley East. That distinction was short-lived as in 2001 we were amalgamated with the municipalities of Walden, Rayside-Balfour, Nickel Centre, Capreol, Sudbury, and Onaping and became the City of Greater Sudbury. Many people will tell you that the opening of the Centennial Arena in 1971 basically threw the Township of Valley East into a bitter battle with the residents of Val Caron and Blezard Valley upset that the new arena was built in Hanmer. Regional Government brought us back together on January 1, 1973 when we became known as the Town of Valley East, and then Mayor Raymond Plourde helped ease the rivalry when he convinced Council in 1974 to build the Confederation Arena, which is now named the Ray Plourde Arena. Bev McIver, the Town Recreation Director, was also instrumental in creating a feeling of unity between the various segments of the community when he created a united minor hockey system with players being drawn from Hanmer, Val Caron and Blezard Valley. That was the beginning of a community that has grown together ever since. In 1975 the first Valley East Days was held to celebrate the community that was known as the Town of Valley East and to recognize the spirit that had been created at that time. Every year since we have come together at the beginning of September to remember our past and celebrate our community. The Valley East Today Community Web Site was founded in 2003 and is a collection of stories, ...Read More