SASKATCHEWAN WELCOMES SECOND CENTURY WITH SPECTACULAR DISPLAY

Break out the noisemakers and put on your dancing shoes. Provincial pride will reach new heights throughout Saskatchewan this long weekend as residents and visitors welcome the beginning of the province's second century.

"Our province, built by the strength, creativity and heart of our people, has played a defining role in shaping the great nation of Canada," Premier Lorne Calvert said. "Our centennial celebrations are a tribute to all of our residents whose energy and vitality is evident in every corner of Saskatchewan."

Over 3,500 events have been registered on the Saskatchewan Centennial 2005 website signaling the celebration has been in full swing since the start of the year.

"Big birthday bashes are planned throughout the province as Saskatchewan people show the world why ours is a province with 100 years of heart," Saskatchewan Centennial 2005 Chair and Moose Jaw North MLA Glenn Hagel said. "Throughout the province, residents and visitors will come together to show how much we love this place – Saskatchewan!"

Prime Minister Paul Martin kicked off the centennial celebrations on Friday with visits to Saskatoon, Flying Dust First Nation near Meadow Lake and Regina. Governor General Adrienne Clarkson joins the celebrations on Saturday and remains in Saskatchewan until Monday.

While celebrations are planned throughout the long weekend, the party that's been a century in the making begins on September 4th, 2005, when Saskatchewan officially celebrates its 100th birthday. Fifteen centennial host communities are rolling out the welcome mat and inviting family, neighbours and friends to join them in no-cost or low-cost activities that provide opportunity for everyone to participate in the fun. A vast majority of Saskatchewan residents are under a two-hour drive to one of the 15 host centres, which include the province's 13 cities as well as Meadow Lake and La Ronge.

Just as it did 100 years ago, the September 4th celebrations will end with a bang. At 9:39 in the evening, an awesome display of fireworks will be launched and run for 30 minutes simultaneously in the 15 host communities. Over 100,000 fireworks effects will dance their way across the night sky in time with music and special narration that captures the spirit of Saskatchewan people and our diverse culture.

"When Saskatchewan entered Confederation 100 years ago, a lifetime of memories was created for those who were able to participate in the many festivities," Hagel said. "I think it's quite safe to say that our weekend celebration will prove to the world why it could use a little more Saskatchewan."

Additional information on Saskatchewan Centennial 2005 is available online at www.sask2005.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

Chris Shauf Saskatchewan Centennial 2005 Regina Phone: (306) 787-1254 Cell: (306) 530-5775