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Town of Two Hills Hosts Alberta Day Celebrations
Town of Two Hills Hosts Alberta Day Celebrations
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
The Two Hills Centennial Centre was the site of Alberta Day Celebrations on Sept. 1. It was the first-time municipalities hosted their own events to mark the province’s 118th birthday.
The Town of Two Hills was one of 33 municipalities throughout Alberta to receive provincial government funding to host events this year. Last July former Premier announced the creation of Alberta Day as a way for Albertans to demonstrate their pride, celebrate their history and showcase their cultural diversity.
Kenney stated that, “Alberta is exceptional in every way. We are the custodians of one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse natural environments. Indigenous people
of this place are an inspiration in how they have overcome great adversity to create an ever brighter future, rooted in their ancient cultures and customs.
The pioneer spirit and entrepreneurial culture of Alberta have driven our province to become one of the most prosperous and generous places on Earth. We must remember and learn from our history and acknowledge our shortcomings while proudly celebrating our heroes and achievements.”
Town of Two Hills Economic Development Officer Bob Ross welcomed attendees to the celebration. Ross said the program was put together on very short notice as the town received news it had been approved for funding to host the event on Monday.
Town of Two Hills Councillor Sonny Rajoo welcomed everyone on behalf of the town, council, staff and residents. He mentioned how he was invited to sit at a table before the start of the program and the beauty of that gesture. He encouraged attendees to focus on what unties, not separates; and makes us as people.
County of Two Hills Div. 3 Councillor Dianne Saskiw began by stating, “Welcome to Alberta’s 118th birthday party! I am honoured to be called an Albertan. I was called to ask to bring greetings on behalf of County of Two Hills council, administration and staff. I’d like to start off by commending Bob Ross and all his team for working so hard to bring this event together. I understand it was pretty short notice. I want to thank all the volunteers who took the time to be here to make this day a success.
Since becoming a province in 1905, Albertans have prospered and have contributed so much to this nation. We are known for our resourcefulness, our strong values and strong work ethics. Between agriculture, natural resources, innovations and inventions, we are considered one of the economic engines of Canada.
Our welcoming spirt, our strength and courage are known to all through floods, droughts, fires and storms we all just pull together and get ‘er done. To our seniors, thank you for working so hard and for your sacrifices making this province what it is today. To our working families, thank you for carrying on the vision of our forefathers making our communities stronger in all ways. And to those of our youth, for those of you that don’t know, our provincial motto is strong and free. Take a moment to look around use that freedom, the opportunities and the potential this province has to offer. Please continue to make Alberta your home.
So, today, be proud of your community, your province and most importantly, be proud of yourselves for contributing to the unique spirit of Alberta.”
Historian and Author Sheila Willis regaled the audience with a few real life tales from the early days and the colorful characters who carved out lives in the province. “You have to look at all sides of history,” said Willis, who has uncovered many untold stories during her research and travels.
Viper Nayawatatic and Terri Cardinal from Saddle Lake Cree Nation danced for the audience of around 40 people before Allen Christie and took the stage. He was accompanied by a longtime friend and cello player and performed some of his big hits like Alberta May, $5.27 and Full Moon Over Caroline.
