Selz’s party of the century
They came to celebrate and when the sun set on Selz’s centennial celebration on July 11, there was much to remember.
“We received many nice comments from those who attended,’ said Brenda Weinmann, one of the organizers. “They were impressed with how the town looked and all the planned events. It was pretty much a perfect weekend.”
Indeed, the southern Pierce County town of 43 came alive as many former residents and relatives returned to see old friends and family members.
“I think that’s what was really nice to see, people coming together again,’ Weinmann said.
The centennial kicked off with a banquet at the Harvey Eagles on July 9 which was attended by 380 people. There, event organizers held the coronation of centennial king and queen which was Mike Schneider and Lana Fettig.
Following the meal, a one-of-a-kind commemorative quilt designed and pieced by Harriet Bjorke, and quilted by Harriet, Alice Fettig Volk and Pearl Bentz Swang raised nearly $1,700 through a raffle. The committee also received just over $4,000 for a specially-designed centennial rifle. Those funds went to cover expenses for the three-day bash.
On July 10, a parade kicked off the day’s event. It featured plenty of classic cards, unique floats, tractors, horses and other entries.
A classic car show was held in the town’s park on the east side and there was kids games and free stage events held throughout the afternoon.
The day ended with a street dance which drew about a 1,000, Weinmann estimates.
“Everyone was well behaved and had a good time,’ she added. “With the exception of a brief rain shower that came through, the weather was great.”
On July 11, there was a community breakfast which followed a service at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. The final event was a demolition derby which had 17 entries and drew about 500 spectators.
One of features centennial goers appreciated was a shuttle service back and forth between Selz and nearby Harvey. Hartley’s Busing and Charter Service of Rugby provided the bus. “That worked out well,’ she said.
Now that the partying is over, event planners can catch their breath after months of planning. “I know I need some R&R right now,’ quipped Weinmann.