Offering a terrific time to get together with old friends and make some new ones along the way, the 68th Rimbey and District Old Timers Association's Rimbey Annual Reunion marked another very successful run on June 21.
The festivities were held at the Peter Lougheed Community Centre, with a luncheon provided plus a roast beef and chicken supper.
The following morning, a pancake breakfast was held at PasKaPoo Park. The museum was open for folks to check out as well.
Altogether, 161 people came out for the program, and 138 stayed for supper on Saturday, said Kathy Jaffray, chair of the organizing committee, adding that each year the reunion committee also recognizes a pioneer family, and this year it was the Hayden family.
Representatives from the family gave an excellent presentation, telling the audience about their family's history, said Jaffray.
Meanwhile, the program on June 21 also included the introduction of the 50-year high school class from 1975, and the 60-year class from 1965. There was also a moment of silence to honour past reunion attendees who have since passed away.
Ultimately, the weekend really provides just a wonderful setting for conversation and re-connecting, Jaffray said.
"The hall was just buzzing. When we opened the door at noon (on Saturday), people started coming in. And we maybe had one little break for about five minutes," she added with a laugh, referring to how busy the day was.
"It's so exciting - I just think it's great."
Jaffray, who has been on the planning committee since 2018, noted being part of such a strong community tradition is a joy. The reunion event stretches back to 1955.
She said it was launched back when the government was giving grants to honour the pioneers of families, because at the time it was the province's 50th anniversary.
Each year, planning begins in March, and then the committee - which number about a dozen - meets again for a follow-up after the event wraps up. And the search is on pretty soon after that for next year's pioneer family as well.
