The rink at Bill Barber Complex may have looked more like a swimming pool which cut short part of the evening’s planned events Saturday, but that didn’t stop the residents in Callander from reveling as the municipality officially kicked off a yearlon
The rink at Bill Barber Complex may have looked more like a swimming pool which cut short part of the evening’s planned events Saturday, but that didn’t stop the residents in Callander from reveling as the municipality officially kicked off a yearlong celebration to mark the town’s 125th birthday.
The evening featured speeches by dignitaries, a celebratory cake and fireworks and Celebration Committee Chair Tom Fletcher says there are plenty events planned for the entire year including; old fashioned teas, talent contests, wrestling competitions, to ecumenical services and even an attempt to make it into the Guinness World Records.
Callander’s 125th Year Ambassador contest winner Mackenzie VanHorne, 14, says being the ambassador gives her a venue to demonstrate her pride in the community and inspire other kids to become involved in their community by volunteering.
“Because I love Callander,” she tells the crowd while showing the Ambassador sash made from the town's tartan.
“In Callander everyone is so nice and welcoming and when riding my bike in the morning I’ve never come across one person who hasn’t waived and said good morning with a big smile on their face.”
“Everyone knows each other in Callander so it’s kind of like one big happy family. Callander is the kind of town if you run out of sugar or flour you can go to ask your neighbour for some and guaranteed they will give it to you. I love that about Callander.”
Evelyn Masson, who has lived in Callander for 60 years, couldn't agree more with VanHorne noting that while the town has had its ups and downs, but in the end it is just the best place on earth.
Mayor Hec Lavigne and council are marking the event with Mayor’s Gala which will be held in February. Lavigne says the town’s history is strong and vibrant and moving into the future they have a strategic plan to create a great place to live and play.
The committee has also produced a heritage calendar of Callander to raise funds that will support all the events throughout the year. The calendar showcases the town from 1886 to date and it is available for purchase for only $10 and are available for sale at the Royal Bank, the Callander Municipal Office, the Callander Library and other retail outlets in Callander.
Anyone interested in more information about the events, opportunities to volunteer or to be a sponsor can visit www.callander125.ca.
