The celebration of a century

BARRHEAD - In 1922, the Neerlandia Cooperative Association Ltd. was formed, and a store was built in the village to serve the young community.  

That was 100 years ago, and much has changed since that time.  

From a small cooperative, it has grown to a large complex on the east side of Neerlandia, which includes a large grocery store, hardware, restaurant, liquor store and across the road to the south, a service centre, fuel and fertilizer sales and more. And it no longer just serves the local community, it now serves a very large area of members and customers with one of, if not the largest, cooperative complexes in rural Alberta.  

This coming weekend, Neerlandia Co-op is holding a weekend to celebrate a century of service to the community and the surrounding area. A big tent has been set up in the parking lot at the complex.  

On Friday evening, July 29, a dinner will kick off the event, and will include a variety show with Richard and Deborah Popovich, featuring a mix of classic rock and roll and country music, plus some comedy time as well by this popular duo.  

Doors open at 5 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m. and entertainment to follow. Tickets for the Friday evening event are available at the Co-op Home and Farm Centre at a cost of $40 each (cash or cheque) for persons age 16 and up. 

On Saturday, July 30, there will be activities all day, starting with a free breakfast at 7:30 a.m.  

At 10:30 a.m., a parade will be held (including the Edmonton Police Service Band), and during the day, there will be a Show and Shine of some classic vehicles, a Tractor Pull, Flea and Artisan Market, Farmer’s Olympics, Bench Show, food trucks, souvenirs and more - a great day of fun and entertainment for the whole family! 

The whole celebration recognizing the 100 years of the co-op wraps up with fireworks at 10 p.m.  

As the members and staff suggest, “Come Celebrate With Us!”