The Valley East Heritage Committee which has evolved from the Centennial Committee formed in 1997 is busy putting together a bilingual tabletop book containing the history of Valley East from 1904 to 2004 and including settlers before 1904 who contributed to its history. The group will also be working to co-ordinate the historical, cultural, educational, social and sport activities of all community organizations during the centennial year in order to facilitate a year of celebration which will instill in local citizens a sense of pride in the development of the City of Valley East.

Wayne LeBelle, a well-known Northern Ontario historian from Field, has been commissioned to write the history book. The first 3000 copies of the 300 page book, which will be sold for $29.95 each, are expected to be ready for sale by the end of next summer. The proceeds from the sale of the book will be used to expand the public library in order to house an Historical Archive & Artifact exposition.

The Blezard Valley Centennial Committee has recently joined forces with the Heritage Committee and both are working together to help achieve their goals. While Valley East celebrates its Centennial in the year 2004, Blezard Valley celebrates in 2002.

Over 18 volunteer members of the Committee recently took part in a one day workshop conducted by Wayne Labelle to develop their research skills in uncovering some of the history of the community. The participants were shown how to develop strategies which would enable them to make the best use of their time and energies in finding the hidden treasures of this community.

The Heritage Committee is calling on residents and former residents of Valley East to search through their old photo albums and their attic to uncover other significant contributions which may help ensure that future generations can explore their past. If you have anything to contribute, even something you feel may not be that important, please drop it off at the Valley East Public Library, or call Ron at 969-5431.