TREENA MIELKE/Rimbey Review
Remembering the good old days, sharing laughter and even a few tears and sharing plans for the future is what is happening at this year’s Rimbey and District Old Timers’ Association’s 56th annual get-together.
Anyone who wants to meet old friends, relive memories, make some new friends and share new experiences is welcome to attend, said Gladys Johnson, president of Rimbey’s Old Timers Association.
“Everyone is welcome,” said Johnson. “I especially want to encourage locals to come. It is a wonderful time and it is open to everyone. A cordial invitation is extended to all to come meet your old friends, make new friends, share stories and enjoy.”
Johnson, whose parents Roy and Martha (neé Odenbach) Allison were raised in the area, said she especially enjoys the reunion because of her strong family roots here. “My grandpa was one of the pioneers and my parents were very faithful attendees,” she said.
She noted that last year’s attendance of 222 people had representation from the United States, British Columbia as well as Alberta.
The reunion is to be held June 11 with registration to begin at noon at the Rimbey Community Centre.
Lunch, catered by the Springdale Ladies Club, will follow from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Door prizes and a short program will be part of the afternoon’s agenda.
This year the Rimbey graduating class of 1961 will be honored.
Following the get-together, the Rimbey Drop-In Society will host an evening of entertainment including supper and an old-time dance featuring Elmer & Friends.
On June 12 a pancake breakfast will be held at Pas-Ka-Poo Park Park from 7:30 to 11 a.m.
The Rimbey and District Old Timer’s Association was formed during Alberta’s Golden Jubilee in 1955.
“The foresight of those who pioneered this organization has helped us to maintain strong ties with our past,” said Johnson. “These annual events have been treasured by many and hopefully will continue to do so in years to come.