Canuck spirit

A year ago, Quesnelites didn’t have much to cheer about.

Those who couldn’t get out to Barkerville for the fabulous Dominion Day celebrations were left empty-handed.

They didn’t blow out candles, nor sing O’ Canada – at least with hundreds of others at LeBourdais Park.

No one proudly claimed I am Canadian. No one banded together and wore red and white. No one belted out any tunes by fabulous Canadian singers and songwriters.

We believe Quesnel was the only community in the entire country who didn’t host Canada Day celebrations.

And we gave the city a big thumbs down for not doing anything for the nation’s 140th birthday.

After we heard from angry residents who voiced their concerns to city councillors, the Observer took on the cause for this year.

After all, it is our 100th birthday and we wanted to say thanks to the community. It’s also the CRD’s 40th birthday and B.C. turns 150 years old.

In February, we presented the idea to both city councillors and Cariboo Regional District directors who each gave us $5,000 to organize it.

Immediately CRD Director Ronda Wilkins and City Coun. Mary Sjostrom volunteered for the organizing committee.

When we put the word out, the community came together.

People immediately stepped up. From the Lions Club serving free hot dogs and juice to the Seniors Advocacy Service for renewing the annual seniors tea. Both tea sittings are sold out.

We have representatives from College of New Caledonia, First Nations, the Museum, Rotary and the private sector.

Tuesday at LeBourdais Park, youth service groups will be in full force – Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, Air Cadets and 4-H members.

Entertainers are volunteering their time.

In planning this event, everyone gave up a lot of their free time. They’re giving up their free time Tuesday to make it a success. We know it wouldn’t or couldn’t happen without volunteers. It’s an amazing group.

They realize Canada Day needs to stay in Quesnel.

We encourage everyone to proudly wave the Maple Leaf Tuesday at LeBourdais Park. Show your support for the city, the province and the nation.

Events get underway at 11 a.m. and continue to 3 p.m.

Show your true spirit.