Hanna is getting ready to celebrate and welcome home its former residents. In a few short weeks, August 3 to 5, the town will be holding it’s 100th anniversary celebrations.
The tagline for the celebrations is “worth the drive home,” with the hope the town’s former residents will return to Hanna. That hope is being realized, with over 1000 people registered so far for the celebrations.
“We’ve been meeting for well over two years with committee and heads of various departments. It’s been in the works for quite some time. It’s really nice to see people excited about the homecoming,” said Hanna’s Director of Community Services, Gwen Snell.
The centennial is not only bringing residents and former residents, quite a few dignitaries are making the trip to honour the town’s milestone during the opening ceremonies on Saturday, August 4.
“The Queen sent her regrets, but her representative Donald Ethell, the Lieutenant Governor, will be here. Our MP Kevin Sorensen and MLA Rick Strankman will be coming as well,” said Snell. “Mayor Tadanori Omori of our sister city in Japan, Wake, is coming. Travelling with him will be Akinobu Tokunaga, who has been here before and will be translating. Our Mayor will meet them and will show them the sites. We’ve got a full slate of dignitaries and the past and present residents who will all be special guests.”
The goal of the weekend is to bring people back to Hanna and give them the opportunity to reminisce and see old friends. There are a few class reunions scheduled, a Hanna Seals reunion fun swim, and more. There is also a full slate of fun activities for all ages and interests during the weekend.
“We really tried to make sure there were events for all ages and all interests, but leave time for people to revisit and reconnect with friends,” said Snell. “Centennial’s are a wonderful time to take a look back at our successes and what brought us to where we are now.”
As part of the centennial, the committee put together the “Centennial Cookbook” and a history book.
There is still more to do before the celebrations begin. Volunteers are desperately needed to help in all areas of the celebrations, from providing security to moving chairs. Volunteer hours are flexible and those interested can choose what times they work.
The committee is also asking attendees to register for the celebrations. Registration ensures there will be enough food and welcome packages for everyone and some events have attendance limitations and must therefore be registered for.
The celebration of 100 years is not limited to the weekend of August 3 to 5, events throughout the year are being encouraged to have an anniversary theme.
“A lot of people are doing things outside of the centennial weekend. The 100 theme was encouraged and we encourage any event to have the 100 theme. If you have a reunion or get together, just let us know,” said Snell.
For more information about the centennial celebrations or to register visit www.hanna2012.com. Those interested in volunteering can call 403-854-2099.
““There will be a lot of reminiscing, visiting, and catching up,” said Snell. “It’s going to be a busy three days, but people will leave happy they made the trip home.”
