On Sunday September 11, over 200 people gathered at the Crystal Palace in Perth to celebrate 20 years of community building with the PDCF. Here’s a snapshot in words and photos.

Guests were greeted on their arrival by bagpiper Casey Cerson.

Francine Desjardins, spokesperson for the Lanark Drum Circle, explained that the drum represents the universal heartbeat of Mother Earth and the lifelong connection with all living things in Creation. Members of the Circle drummed and sang the sacred welcome song The Ancestor Song, inviting the spirit of our ancestors to the gathering, to remember them and honour their gifts to us. 

The Drum Circle was followed by Kay Rogers who read the PDCF’s land acknowledgement and commitments to action toward Reconciliation.

There was sustained applause when Ron Heesen introduced and welcomed the Saeedi and Beekzada families to our community. Both families, who are sponsored by the Community Alliance for Refugee Resettlement (CARR2), recently arrived as refugees from Afghanistan. As newcomers to Canada they are settling in to our community and learning to adapt to the Canadian way of life.

Brent McLaren, Perth’s Town Crier, brought greetings and reminded us that the tradition of giving and supporting  our neighbours is long standing in our community.

Following the refreshment break, guests were treated to great music by talented local musicians: acclaimed fiddler Jess Wedden, accompanied by Chris Murphy, followed by Juno award winner singer-songwriter James Keelaghan. 

The PDCF wishes to thank to our special guests Casey Cerson, the Lanark Drum Circle, Brent McLaren, Jess Wedden, Chris Murphy, and James Keelaghan. 

Thanks to community members Brian Perkin, our MC, Adam Tennant, our Sound Manager, and our photographers, Evan Carsley–Jones and Christine Kilburn. A special shout out to Joel LeBlanc who booked Jess Wedden and James Keelaghan. This event would not have been possible without Joel. 

The PDCF appreciates the support of Maximillian Restaurant, the Perth Brewery and Pelee Island Winery. 

Last but not least, thanks to all the volunteers who pulled the event together and to everyone who came to celebrate the PDCF. Here’s to the next 20 years!