As the saying goes, many hands make light work.
A small army of volunteers have come together over the past 18 months to organize Mitchell Homecoming 150.
Doug Feltz and Phil O’Donnell are co-chairs of the 150th anniversary committee – leading about 50 volunteers through a full week of activities.
O’Donnell was driving a skid steer, helping set up a trailer on a side street, when Feltz took a quick break from helping set-up to chat with MyStratfordNow.
“It takes a lot of people to do this event, and of course there are cancellations and changes, people get sick…we had to put a few fires out here and there, replan and regroup.”
A big opening ceremony was held on Wednesday along with a golf tournament and a downtown party. There is a beach volleyball tournament, a soap box derby, and musical guests through Sunday, amongst a long list of events.
West Perth Mayor Walter McKenzie praised the efforts of Feltz and O’Donnell, who also represent Mitchell at West Perth Council, adding that many others have taken time out of their busy scheduled to lend a hand.
“There is a pile of volunteers that have helped put this together, so we are just hoping and praying that the weather cooperates.”
McKenzie said there are also a number of class reunions happening, bringing many former town residents back to Mitchell.
He has received a bunch of texts from old classmates.
Many are looking forward to seeing some familiar faces, the mayor said.
“It’s an event that’s been a 150 years in the planning.”
A full list of events for Mitchell Homecoming 150 can be found at westperth.com.
