Old black and white photographs were passed from person to person. Flash bulbs cut through the room as excited former friends posed for pictures to create more photos to pass around at the next meeting of Jasper’s former and current residents. 

Jasper Daze was held over the Thanksgiving weekend at the Sawridge Inn. The more than 100 attendees travelled in from all over Canada and even the U.S., while some travelled only as far as down the street. 

The event kicked off with a Meet and Greet on Oct. 7, and continued the next afternoon. A photo display set up by former Jasper resident Norman Sliter, now of Edmonton, thrilled the crowd. 

The evening was hosted by local resident Bob Dowling with guest speakers including Reverend David Prowse, who delivered the invocation, Dean Paravantes of Kamloops, former Jasper resident Neil Butler of Kelowna and Harry Home, who became a Jasper resident in his 20s. 

Local artists Sandy Robinson and Bette Weir donated pieces of art to be drawn throughout the night, as did former Jasperite, Brenda Guild. MP Rob Merrifield and MLA Robin Campbell donated prizes as well. 

To commemorate Jasper’s former totem pole, Lori Dowling, manager of the Jasper Totem Pole Project, delivered pins and other memorabilia. 

At the end of the evening, organizer of the event Marj Cooper was presented with a bouquet of flowers and honoured with a standing ovation from the group. 

A hat was passed around to collect donations for the Jasper Yellowhead Museum, that totalled $745.

Throughout the weekend, Jasper Daze guests toured the town and enjoyed seeing old homes and hangout spots. The museum set up a Jasper Daze exhibit with photos and memorabilia from the 1940s and ‘50s that was visited by many. 

On Oct. 9, Jasper Daze ended with a breakfast where the 150 guests said good-bye once more. 

Cooper has already booked the next edition of Jasper Daze for Oct. 4 to 6, 2012 at the Sawridge Inn.