This month Squamish organizations, event producers and schools will be invited to join the bash.
Led by the 100 Years Planning Committee, the District of Squamish is gearing up for a year-long birthday celebration. Next year represents 100 years since the name Squamish was adopted, downtown was established and the province passed legislation that paved the way for the town's incorporation, district spokesperson Christina Moore told District of Squamish officials at council on Tuesday (Oct. 1).
Twenty-fourteen will be a year to remember, she said, noting the district will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the amalgamation of the Village of Squamish with the Mamquam and Brackendale neighbourhoods.
The celebration committee, consisting of the Squamish Arts Council, Squamish Chamber of Commerce and other organizations, has been meeting since February. Officials are looking for ways to pursue low-cost, creative event and marketing opportunities by weaving Squamish's history into existing local events, Moore said. Formal invitations will be sent out to local event producers this month.
Our goal is to bring more organizations on board over the next few weeks now that we do have a plan to show, she said.
The committee is creating a 100 years logo and a website and online calendar to highlight local activities that are incorporating the theme.
We do welcome interest from any or all citizens to get involved, Moore noted.
A monthly e-newletter will share historical stories and photos. Officials from Shimizu, Squamish's Japanese sister city, will be invited to attend a special 100 years celebration of Squamish Days.
This year, $10,000 was allocated to aid planning for the centennial festivities. Additional money will be requested as part of the 2014 budget process, staff noted in a report to council.
