Colborne's 150th keeps getting better

Plans for Colborne's 150th anniversary celebration continue to grow.

At its meeting last week the committee advanced several new ideas for the August 1-2 weekend.

Norm Hawley is working on a committee to celebrate the 225th anniversary of the landing of the Loyalists at Adolphustown. Mr. Hawley presented some possibilities for Colborne's 150th. A Fife and Drum Corps, a re-enactment, settlers, and an encampment of Loyalists and Yanks were mentioned. Norm will follow up these possibilities.

All supported the presence of these historical events as part of the Colborne weekend celebration. The emphasis would be for Saturday events, but if some could stay and be part of the Gospel Hour and bell dedication on Sunday, that would be welcomed.

Diane Patterson reported on a number of old-fashioned children’s events such as hoola hoop contests,3 legged races, egg-on-a-spoon etc. The preferred location is the south end of Victoria Square. Help from high school students and other volunteers is needed. Prizes will need to be purchased or donated.

The three area United churches are proceeding with ahistoric tea, and Cathy Galt is adding a quiltshow, bot to be located at Colborne United with the Salem and Eden churchesassisting.

A 4x8 sign worth $200 will be produced.

Community Services Director Dan O'Brien reported that a larger gazebo had been ordered. The new 14x24 model will be completed by July 17. It will cost $3000 more than the original model because of the increased size but is still within the budgeted amount. A landscape architect will advise the location and landscaping of the new additions to the park including the bell.

Janice McKnight advised that the geocaching event is Saturday only from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. An end-of-day gathering for all geocachers will take place at the Legion.

Brochures for the golf tournament have been prepared.

The town crier will be invited to attend the 150th weekend and announce the kick-off of the weekend events.

The Eagle band from Trenton has been booked for the Gospel Hour on Sun. 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Permission has been granted to use the corner of King and Elgin for the Friday night movie. “Transformers” will start at 8:30 p.m.. Cramahe Minor Hockey has been contacted to provide “munchies.” Liability insurance will be provided by the township. One portable toilet will be ordered.

The Legion is having a BBQ at 6 the same evening.

The parade route was discussed. It will start at the Keeler Centre, going north to North St., up Victoria St to King, then west to Victoria Square. After it reaches the Square it will run along
Church St. West, down Toronto Rd. east along King to Division and back to the Keeler Centre.

Tim Post has agreed to be the commentator for the parade.

Rose Sheldrick has formed a sub-committee to choose the Colborne Ambassador. Posters will be made and specific criteria will be developed. Males and females are eligible. Fred Drehlich will design a medallion for the winner and other prizes may be considered.

Committee Chair, Pat Westrope, reported that the afternoon entertainment may include : Mitzi Barth, the Fetching Wenches, Mandy Inglis, Cheryl Casselman, The Fife and Drum band, and Alderville First Nations Drummers. and Ernie Stoneman’s group. Diane Patterson will host.

Next meeting :Monday, June 8. at the Keeler Centre. 7 p.m.