"The judges were unanimous,. Glenn Cochrane is the 2002 Citizen of the Year", affirmed Bob Murdoch, Executive Director of Community Centre 55. "A number of excellent people were nominated this year, but ultimately, Glenn was everyone's choice...not only for all of his volunteer work in the community, but because he is a genuinely good man".

Because Cochrane is always willing to help out organizations like the Beaches Lions Club, he has become the unofficial MC of the Beach. A former CFTO television personality and journalist, he lends his talents to such events as the Christmas Tree lighting and the JazzFest Winegarden fundraiser for the Kew Beach Boat House. Cochrane was a guiding light for the SOS (Save Our Station) and for the SOB (Save Our Boathouse). He also serves on the board of Community Centre 55, and was active in the fight to prevent the expansion of gambling in the community. "He should be a member of 'Save Our Everything,' said Murdoch, "He's always there."

Last year's Citizen of the Year Gene Domagala said, "Glenn has devoted more of his time as a professional journalist to this community than anyone else...He has given his heart and soul to the Beach." Domagala is proud to count Glenn as a friend. "He never says no to anything ...and he is always a gentleman."

When Cochrane was informed of the award, he said he was overwhelmed, "I am never at a loss for words, but I'm speechless now."

Carole Stimmell- Beach Metro News. Drawing by Bill Suddick.