Editor:
July 1 was another disappointing civic celebration in Canmore. The pancake breakfast started the day off well, followed by a fun parade, both well-attended events but for the remainder of the day there was absolutely nothing.
The breakfast was the work of our wonderful Rotary Club of Canmore and the amazing generosity of the Calgary Stampede.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada Day was a day of celebration, not just a morning. Centennial Park was a beehive of activity – a wonderful band competition, games for the kids, food booths, entertainment on the Stan Rogers stage and an oversized Canada birthday cake.
I am well aware that these activities were the work of a hard working Canada Day committee, which I was part of for several years, but as with all other organizations volunteers do burn out and it is more and more difficult to recruit replacements.
But I feel it is ultimately the duty of the Town to ensure such an important event be marked and celebrated appropriately. People come to Canmore from surrounding areas and there are many tourists in our town at this time of year who look forward to being part of the extraordinary experience of Canada Day celebrations in our small town.
I am not suggesting the Town council and/or staff take on this responsibility, but it is their duty to make sure that it is done and that it is an occasion we as citizens can be proud of.
I started my letter by saying another disappointing celebration – Remembrance Day 2022 was also a big let down.
Jean Samis,
Canmore
