High River, AB: In late June’s floods which ravaged parts of Southern Alberta, High River was one of the hardest hit. The Guy Weadick Rodeo was even set to being the day the floods were on their way in. At that time it was cancelled as the town, and much of the province was under a state of emergency.
An event like this brings a ton of money into a town. We all saw the impact of what having the Calgary Stampede did for the community those ten days in July. Having Weadick Days in High River will help symbolize things being back to normal. It won’t be for a while yet.
Originally the event was to be re-scheduled for the second weekend in September however that isn’t going to happen this year now.
“We’re not sure when we can do it yet. We’re not capable right now of putting on a show right now.” Wade Neslon, President of the High River Ag Society said.
For those who don’t know, the High River Rodeo Grounds is still being used by a number of different groups. The grounds is the main point of entry in and out of town for all those displaced or affected by the flood. All of the disabled vehicles were taken there from town also.
“As the welcome center we are hosting different groups from the the town, the province, various NGO (Red Cross, Samaritans purse), Tervita, and Mission Possible (they are coordinating the volunteers going into the town to clean up). Basically the grounds is the place to come to for any questions regarding peoples homes or businesses in the town and the surrounding area.” Wade told. “Our grounds is also the main distribution point for the Red Cross. Our indoor arena and warm up arena are full of supplies.”
Tonight, a town hall meeting is being held in the grandstand. It’s not the first one either.
“We’re glad to be a part of that.” Wade added. “As far as how we’re going to figure out operations, it’s still day to day. If the town needs us for a year, we’re going to say yes.”
With things moving this far into the fall, the first ever High River PBR which was on tap for September 7th at 7:00pm has been postponed.
“We might do something inside later in the year.” Nelson told.
It’s an event that’s been a huge part in doing by event producer, Nate Gardner. With things this far into it, there is going to be an event, it’s a matter of finding a new date now.
“Nate has been great and very accommodating in helping find solutions.” Wade commended.
$10,000 in prize money is up for grabs when it does go through, it’s also a part of a Saddle Series in conjunction with the 10th Annual Glen Keeley Memorial Bull Riding in Stavley on August 31st. With luck, the High River Event will take place before this year’s PBR Canadian Finals which take place October 17th and 18th in Saskatoon, SK.
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