The Canada Day celebration held July 1 at Pas Ka Poo Park did Rimbey proud.
In his speech Mayor Rick Pankiw, who was MC of the opening ceremonies, said the organizing committee spearheaded by Cindy Bowie, community services director deserved kudos for a job well done.
He mentioned Cheryl Jones, Pas Ka Poo Park administrator, Gayle Rondeel, Dawna Providenti and councillors Matthew Jaycox, Jack Webb and Brian Godlongton for their help in making the event the success it was.
Out-of-towners who came to Rimbey to enjoy the festiv ties were impressed with the event, enjoying many of the activities, eating birthday cake, and simply having a good time.
“It’s more kid friendly than Red Deer activities,” said Rieki Solberg.
“There is no shortage of activities for the kids,” added Jessi O’Reilley, who was at the park with her husband, Jesse and their three pre-school children, Saeber, Ranger and Drae.
Halina Pearce, who lives in the United Kingdom and was visiting her brother Michael Jarmoluk for a few days, also took part in the celebrations. A gracious lady with a lovely smile, Pearce held onto her brother’s arm as she mixed and mingled with the crowd. Jarmoluk, dressed in his Legion uniform, took great pride in introducing her to his many friends.
“I think this is lovely,” she said. “Everyone is very friendly. People are so nice here.”
Linda Kelly and her sister Donna McPhillamey came to celebrate Canada Day in Rimbey, a move certainly in keeping with their family roots.
The sisters are the great granddaughters of Ben Rimbey, who came with his brothers at the turn of the century to settle the area.
The ladies agreed coming to Rimbey for Canada Day celebrations is a great experience.
“I love the park. Rimbey is a nice town, very clean,” said McPhillamey.
“There is great community spirit,” added her sister.
The opening ceremonies began with the singing of ‘O Canada by local singer, Jesse O’Reilly.
During the opening ceremonies Shane Kreil, president of the Rimbey Branch 36 of the Royal Canadian Legion gave a short presentation, urging the crowd to take a few moments to remember the Canadian flag they had grown up with. The current flag is now 50 years old.
Ponoka County Reeve Paul McLauchlin and county councilor Nancy Hartford also spoke encouraging everyone to enjoy the day.
The mayor also read a short message from MLA Jason Nixon.