It is a well-known tradition for Islanders to return to Prince Edward Island during Old Home Week. It is a time to catch up with old friends and enjoy Island hospitality, which always includes Island fare, the Gold Cup and Saucer Parade, and the "Big Race."

Holland College recognizes, celebrates, and is gearing up to extend that "down home feeling" by hosting Holland College Alumni and Friends events in Calgary and Toronto during the week of October 18, 2010. This is the second annual gathering in Calgary, once again to take place at the Fairmont Palliser Hotel, and because of last year's enthusiastic response in Calgary, a similar event will be premiered in Toronto at the Toronto Hilton.

Holland College President Brian McMillan will be on hand at both events.

"Reconnecting with our alumni and other friends of the College is a priority for us. We were pleased with the reunion in Calgary last year and we look forward to updating everyone on the recent successes of the College," says Dr. McMillan.

Jonas Deacon, a Holland College alumnus employed with Hoover Mechanical in Calgary, is on the planning committee and encourages all Holland College alumni and Islanders living in Calgary or Toronto to consider attending this year.

"Holland College is the cornerstone on which I have built my career. The Holland College Alumni and Friends event is a great opportunity to connect with others with ties to both the College and home," explains Deacon.

Barry Sheen, Senior Vice President of Operations of Westmont Hospitality Group agrees.

"As a Holland College alumnus, it is with great expectation that I look forward to an evening with others whose lives have been positively influenced by the instructors and staff at Holland College." Sheen and other alumni in Toronto and Calgary are helping to coordinate this year's events.