My how the years have flown by.
It seems only a few days ago that we began reading and researching the history of Sylvan Lake beginning primarily with the history of our Legion branch and then as interesting items popped up adding them to our files.
All this effort was primarily in recognition that the town’s Centennial — 100 years since it became an incorporated municipality — was in 2013 and the feeling that there are always interesting stories to rediscover.
Watch for the results of some of our work throughout the coming 12 months.
Now we’re on the doorstep of 2013 and the celebrations which have been planned over the past two years by a dedicated group of volunteers.
Next Tuesday, January 1st, marks the opening of the year and the first of those celebrations.
The town is going to officially unveil the historic designation of the town’s main street (50th Street) as Centennial Street at a 3 p.m. ceremony on the corner of Lakeshore Drive and 50th Street.
Then there’s the first bonfire in the new fire pit at Centennial Park and fireworks at the pier.
In the midst of that, from 1-5 p.m. the Royal Canadian Legion branch is hosting a President’s Levée to greet the new year during an afternoon of food, drink and camaraderie.
Some of the other significant events planned for the year will sure bring back memories or instill new knowledge.
History boards are being created by various organizations to tell stories of their evolution and involvement in Sylvan Lake.
Sylvan Lake and District Archives Society has created an historic 18 month calendar which has been on sale since June.
A Centennial legacy art project is underway with Grade 7 students — about 275 of them — contributing to the unique creation which will hang in the new town hall.
The Dance of the Century is taking place June 15 with each hour representing a different decade. The same day a quilt show will feature Centennial Quilts thanks to our local quilting group.
And a Sylvan Lake Centennial Cookbook is being created.
Of course there will be civic ceremonies and a very special 1913 days parade.
These are just a few of the events which are sure to make 2013 an interesting year in our community.
We encourage everyone to get involved, learn more about our community and enjoy the variety of celebrations and activities planned to make 2013 special in our community.