It’s been 100 years since the end of the First World War, and to mark this significant anniversary, a series of weekend events and tributes are planned throughout the city from Nov. 2 – 4.

“We are honoured to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the end of WW1 in the ‘City of the Poppy’, where the poppy was officially adopted as Canada’s national symbol of remembrance,” said Acting Mayor Iain Angus. “We encourage the community to come out to the various events this weekend and join us in remembering our collective past.”

Starting Friday, a free stand-up reception is scheduled at the O’Kelly VC Armoury featuring the book launch of Thunder Bay & The First World War, 1914 – 1919, co-authored by Michel S. Beaulieu, David K. Ratz, Thorold J. Tronrud, and Jenna L. Kirker. Saturday will see a special ticketed Gala Ball at Victoria Inn with the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Superior North, and Acting Mayor Iain Angus in attendance. Events will conclude on Sunday with a parade to and from the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium where the closing ceremony will commence. The free closing ceremony will premiere the 30-minute film, Where the Poppies Grow: The Lakehead at War, as well as the unveiling of exciting plans underway for a scenic Commemorative Walking Trail and lookout.

The 35-member Royal Canadian Air Force Band, based out of Winnipeg, will play at all scheduled events. For more information, visit www.thunderbay.ca/ww1

 

- 30 -

 

Contact:       Gordon Stover, Committee Coordinator – Office of the City Clerk, 625-2897