Chair Bill Smith welcomed Minto Mayor George Bridge, 27 members and five guests to the Canada’s 150th Anniversary and 2017 Clifford Homecoming meeting on March 11 at the community hall in Clifford.
Thirty months have now passed since the beginning of meetings to organize a Homecoming weekend for Aug. 4 to 7.
Reports confirmed chocolate bar sales are going well, a dozen vendors have signed up for the craft show, orders for the meat fundraiser are due April 21, benches are being sold, and Homecoming placemats are being printed for local restaurants.
Ray Schaus’ book on the history of Clifford, the history of Wightman Telecom, and two children’s book by Connie Murray were added to the list of items available for sale through the homecoming souvenir committee. Quilt tickets are also available.
Decorations are being created for sale to help beautify homes and businesses. The three cash prizes in three categories are being offered for a beautification contest to involve the whole community. The form is included in the Clifford Horticultural Society booklet and available on request.
Bridge assured everyone the village entrance signs, hanging baskets and planter flower boxes will feature flowers in the theme colours.
Business and economic manager Belinda Wick-Graham was glad to see such a big crowd continuing to organize the homecoming. Don Senek explained Wick-Graham was instrumental in the committee securing a federal grant.
Weekend passes are ready for sale and the schedule of events is being designed to include as many events as possible. A mural is being painted and will be revealed at the Canada Day celebration to be held at the former grist mill site. Plaques will be revealed and there will be a replica mill, a photo display, a visit from past owners, treats and Canada flags.
Entertainment in the children’s tent will include clown Val E. Joy, singer Dickie Bird, a bouncy castle and the obstacle course. Adults can enjoy the 5/10 km walks and a paint ball workout.
Another gem of Clifford history being revealed is the little-known fact Tackaberry skates were first developed in Clifford. John Kruspe tracked down all the information and a display was created to showcase this notable piece of Clifford history. These skates were the forerunner to the CCM Tack skate worn by hockey greats Bobby Orr, Wayne Gretzky, and Sidney Crosby.
Camping spots are being prepared and a block of hotel rooms was set aside for those needing accommodations for the homecoming. Bands will be arriving from near and far and Clifford’s own Juanita Wilkins will be featured in the country and western Saturday night concert.
Unique automobiles will be on display for the homecoming weekend. A Smokey and the Bandit run will also be held as a tribute to the 40th anniversary of the movie starring Burt Reynolds and Sally Field. There will be more than a few Trans Ams to feast your eyes on as well, maybe even a 1977 Firebird Trans Am, police cruiser, and big rig.
More information is available at www.clifford2017.ca or on Facebook or at 519-327-8091.
