Don and Sylvia Holloway. (City of Red Deer)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Finding A Way To Celebrate

Mayor’s Garden Party goes on tour amidst COVID-19

Jul 29, 2020 | 11:03 AM

Like everywhere else in the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the cancellation or modification of many celebrated summertime events and traditions in central Alberta, including the Mayor’s Garden Party in Red Deer.

The popular event normally sees hundreds of seniors gather for fellowship, refreshments and musical entertainment in City Hall Park in recognition of Alberta Senior’s Month. However, to minimize the risk of virus transmission and to adhere to public health orders, this year instead of seniors coming to City Hall to see the Mayor, she travelled to them.

“Although we were unable to host the annual Mayor’s Garden Party, we would still like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our seniors for sharing your skills, knowledge and experience through the years,” said Mayor Tara Veer, in a news release. “You all have contributed to the strength of our community, province and country, and we honour you for the legacies you’ve built.”

Earlier this month, Mayor Veer and members of city council travelled to 13 local senior’s residences and care facilities to bring greetings on behalf of The City and deliver personalized cards and flowers. All the greetings took place outdoors, allowing seniors and council to maintain physical distancing and follow all Alberta Health guidelines.

“We are thrilled to be able to make these special visits to our seniors. We want to celebrate them and make sure they know just how important they are to our community,” added Veer.

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Don Holloway is this year’s Honourary Senior, as selected by Mayor Veer. Holloway is a native Newfoundlander who has called central Alberta home since 1977. He’s also believed to be one of the city’s last living veterans of the Korean War. You can read more about Don Holloway in the We Are Red Deer story.