2 transit pass

Province assists with transit costs

From left to right, MLA Jackie Lovely, Camrose Mayor PJ Stasko and Seniors, Community and Alberta Social Services Minister Jason Nixon talk about transit at the University of Alberta Augustana Campus.

By Murray Green

The province is providing $1.7 million in funding to expand low-income transit programs in six more communities across the province.

Low-income residents and students in Lethbridge, Camrose, Hinton, Leduc, Red Deer and Spruce Grove are now able to apply for the pass.

Jason Nixon, Alberta Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services made the announcement at the University of Alberta Augustana Campus on September 26.

“Many Albertans rely on public transit on a daily basis to get them to where they need to go. Students are faced with rising tuition costs, seniors who no longer drive anymore and many other Albertans. These new agreements to expand low-income transit passes will help individuals and families move through their communities with ease. Funding will cover the municipality’s cost of subsidizing the low-income transit program, as well as an additional 10 per cent for administration costs,” said Nixon.

“Keeping transportation affordable is critical. Anything like this where you can eliminate a monthly expense–that can be very significant and we need to do more. Lower transit costs is just one way to help,” Nixon said.

He also pointed out the government has eliminated the provincial fuel tax.

“One of the things that I have heard is affordability. Students, families and business owners are concerned. This is just one more step to make life affordable,” said Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely.

Camrose Mayor PJ Stasko said, “The city has been providing transit options to the community for the past eight years. This makes transit more affordable to our citizens. We look forward to working with our neighbours and the province in the future on potentially facilitating a regional transit system,” Stasko said.

Camrose previously piloted a route to Edmonton called the Camrose Connector, but funding for the project ended after two years.

Nixon said Alberta’s transportation minister would soon be talking to municipalities about their intercity transit needs.

“I’m excited to see what comes from it. And I can assure you the premier has heard that need. We’ll see what happens after consultation, what will be the permanent solution to that. But clearly we need to address it,” responded Nixon.
In late 2022, Edmonton abandoned a plan for a regional transit system with about 10 other capital-region partners, with some councillors expressing concerns about cost and inefficiency. Camrose was not a part of the project.

The government provided low-income passes in Edmonton and Calgary previously.

Orange shirt day held

By Murray Green

The Battle River School Division (BRSD) will honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to acknowledge its significance on September 30 and throughout the year.

In September, BRSD joined communities across Canada in recognizing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. They are dedicated to a journey of understanding, reflection and commemoration.

Last Friday, staff and students culminated the month of learning by wearing orange shirts in honour of Orange Shirt Day. This day serves as a symbol of our commitment to reconciliation and a reminder that every child matters.

Throughout September, classrooms and schools have been actively engaging in meaningful activities aimed at deepening students’ understanding of the history and lasting impacts of residential schools on Indigenous communities. These activities encompass fostering empathy, promoting reconciliation and encouraging critical thinking among our students. They believe that this extended period of learning allows for a thoughtful process of exploration, and a comprehensive approach to learning about residential schools, their impact, and their historical significance.

BRSD superintendent, Rhae-Ann Holoien emphasized the importance of this learning, which is a significant observance with a much broader commitment.

“National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Days are not just one-day events for us,” said Holoien. “This learning is part of our commitment to reconciliation and understanding that takes place throughout the month of September and beyond. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of empathy, inclusivity, and mutual respect.”

BRSD acknowledges that the process of learning and reconciliation is ongoing and extends well beyond a single month. Therefore, BRSD is committed to maintaining our efforts throughout the year.

BRSD encourages parents, guardians and community members to engage in conversations about reconciliation at home and to support the educational activities taking place within our schools and communities.
3 brcf to centra cam

BRCF grants to Centra Cam

Battle River Community Foundation director Leon Lohner, left, presented the grants to Roxanna Skjonsberg, recently retired executive director of Centra Cam.


The Battle River Community Foundation awarded $5,700 in grants to Centra Cam Vocational Training Association.

The grants supported the purchase of equipment used by Centra Cam clients in the Centre’s Odd Jobs program and the purchase of scanners that have reduced the need for paper in Centra Cam’s operations.

The grants are from investment income earned by the Gordon French Fund which was established to assist individuals with disabilities to participate in meaningful employment opportunities.

The Battle River Community Foundation exists to support organizations in East Central Alberta, which benefit the local communities and have a positive impact on the future.

Grants from the Battle River Community Foundation are primarily made possible through the generosity of individual donors and organizations that have created endowment funds. The principal of these endowment funds are kept intact and the income is made available annually to support local projects and organizations.

Since it was founded in 1995, the Battle River Community Foundation has granted over $8,216,000 to support charitable activities in the Battle River Region.

 

Council approves Camrose Police expansion to include Victim Services

By Lori Larsen

City of Camrose Council approved the Camrose Police Commission’s recommendation to include the expansion of the organizational structure of the Camrose Police Services (CPS) to include the Victim Services Unit (VSU) and personnel.

In a report to council by CPS Chief Dean LaGrange and Inspector Rene Brisson on September 26 during the Committee of the Whole meeting, council was advised of how and why the expansion to include the VSU as part of CPS services came about and that, most importantly, if approved, the expansion would not interrupt or change the level of service provided by the VSU.
Inspector Brisson began by sharing the background and current state of Victim Services.

“Back in 1997, the VSU started with Camrose RCMP and in 1999 Victim Services included the Camrose Police Service Victim Service Support Unit in the community and into CPS station,” explained Brisson. “In fact back in 1999 when the Police Service moved into the building it is in today, it allocated some space for the Victim Services Unit to work out of the Police Service building.”

Brisson explained that the prior model of Victim Services, funded through the Government of Alberta (GoA), involved the Victim Services employee and advocates reporting directly to a Victim Services Board.

“Back at the beginning of this year we were told by the Province that they are looking to change the format. As opposed to dealing with 67 different Victim Services Units across the province they felt it better to deal with four major regions and consolidate everything, primarily dealing with RCMP jurisdiction.”

Brisson said that Camrose, Taber and Lacombe were unique in that they are the only municipal police services that were in partnership with an RCMP model of Victim Services support.

“The province said that we had an option, we could do much like the town of  Taber has done, and make an application and business plan to adopt the Victim Services within our own police service or we could join the regional model. However, they indicated, we would likely be the only municipal police service in that model.”

Considering the options CPS explored the funding model and then developed a business plan in consultation with the Government of Alberta and presented it to GoA and the Camrose Police Commission in April.

CPS determined that  the plan to adopt the VSU within CPS would enable them to maintain Victim Services support to victims and people suffering from trauma, and provide the same services and level of services currently being provided, maintained within the City of Camrose and not join the regional model.

“We could have it fully funded by the Government of Alberta,” added Brisson. “We did get approval from the minister for funding for the fiscal year of 2023/24 and just recently we received communication from the ministry indicating that funding is sustainable starting after this year, if we were to proceed, for three to five years at a time.”

Brisson stated that CPS does not foresee this funding model falling apart in that Victim Services is something that has been a staple in communities across Alberta and Canada for some time, supported through the government.

Brisson presented the proposed model which included an organizational chart, topping with the Chief of Police then branching out in two directions, including Inspector of Operations and Inspector of Operations Support. The Victim Service Unit including the Program manager (paid position) and two part time caseworkers (paid positions) and all volunteer advocates would come under the direction of the Inspector of Operations Support.
Brisson said that the two part time case workers will be an increase in service delivery.

“The proposal for the  change in the organization would be to have those two part time caseworkers and continue with our volunteer advocacy program.

“Volunteer advocates are key to Victim Services. These are people within the community that have taken training on how to be Victim Services workers. They have been vetted and they get called out 24/7 essentially to help support victims of trauma, and that is something that we will continue to include in our program.”
The total proposed budget of $187,950 for 2024 includes all expenses of: salaries; professional development; travel and subsistence; communication (mobile phone); psych services/CISM; office supplies, clothing, rental/lease of vehicle; vehicle expenses, maintenance and repairs; and victim funding (clothing, food, shelter).

The entire amount to be expensed would be fully funded by a provincial grant and no funds would be required from the City of Camrose taxpayer.

Brisson said that there is a transition period in place and that the Alberta Government is not yet fully prepared to run with their regional model.

“We offered that we would like to maintain continuity of service within not only in the city, which is what we are speaking of here, but also the county. As the government looks to get this into place we would like to maintain carriage and support of our victims in the county and not necessarily have any issues transferring those types of files to other people. Our advocates will take carriage of those files all the way through to completion.”

Camrose Police Service Inspector Rene Brisson spoke of the potential risks including the risk of the GoA changing course impacting funding.

“There are no guarantees within provincial funding, so there is a risk there, although we have been provided assurances that it is not going to change, but there is always that risk.  We would have to adjust on the fly if that was to change to determine what the next option would be for victims’ support in this community.”
Brisson said the other risks accompanies the hiring of employees, including any issues with WCB or absences that would need to be filled and those would fall within the responsibility of Camrose Police Service similar to any other CPS employees.

“We would like to continue providing VSU space, in kind, within our Camrose Police Service building there is no budget line for a cost for that, and the reason it is not there is because the government essentially told us they would not be paying for that. We felt if we had put it in there it would not have been approved.”

Regarding the timeline, Brisson said CPS would like to have this in place in November and have somebody fill the program manager position, head of the VSU, and then look to fill part time positions.
“We have also communicated with the current Camrose Victim Services Board and they are well aware the government was changing the models and their funding is going to end. We worked with them and let them know this was something we wanted to do, incorporate the VSU within our own organizational structure.
“The Board has been great. The many years the Board has been in operation has been truly a benefit to the community and the work done by the volunteer men and women on that Board has been very much appreciated.”
 
Council inquiries

Councillor Agnes Hoveland inquired about the current board’s assets as well as the current society’s charitable status.

Brisson replied. “That Society will dissolve. They do have some assets, by way of a vehicle and that type of thing, and they have some rules on what they can do with that money. I don’t know specifically what they are going to do because they have one more meeting left to make some decisions.”

With regards to Hoveland’s inquiry about the Charitable status of the current VSU, Chief LaGrange responded.

“The Charity Checkstop we have every year on 48th Avenue that Victim Services is involved in, as is the Police Service, will not change. Even though Victim Services Unit (will become) part of the Camrose Police Service, which does not have not-for-profit status, they can still lobby for charitable donations, like police officers in uniform do at the Charity Checkstop.”

Councillor Don Rosland asked how many volunteer advocates are involved with Victim Services.

Brisson responded, currently between four and six and that they plan on maintaining similar numbers as well as the one full time and two part time employees.

“So it would be a better service delivery at the end, for the same cost,” added LaGrange, noting also that the transition of VSU to CPS will not cause any interruption in service.

Mayor PJ Stasko stated that it would be Council’s role to advocate to the Province to keep the funding sustainable for future.
4 seed cleaning plant cut

King retires after 33 years of dedicated service to County

Paul King, fifth from left, was the driving force behind Camrose County getting a new seed cleaning plant.

By Murray Green

After 33 years of working for Camrose County, CAO (chief administration officer) Paul King retired at the end of August.

“Camrose County councils have been fortunate to have an employee the calibre of Paul. His work ethic and integrity have been valued and relied upon. His work within the Agriculture Services department, assistant CAO and over 10 years as CAO have brought 33 years of legacies. Most recently, the completion of the Camrose County Seed Cleaning Plant, the Camrose County Regional Firehall #2, and from his early days in Ag Services, the vision for what now is West Dried Meat Lake Regional Landfill have all been his legacies,” said Reeve Cindy Trautman.

“We will miss working with Paul; however, his leadership and mentorship of Teresa Gratrix and his team of managers have left Camrose County well prepared for its future,” the Reeve added.

Paul started at the County on February 1, 1990, in the fieldman’s office working for the Agricultural Services Board. Paul was hired as the assistant fieldman, but Brian Olson, who was the fieldman at the time, left after about six months.

“I was fortunate to be offered the fieldman’s job, which I worked at for the next 23 years. Over the years, we were able to grow that job from killing weeds, hunting gophers and chasing beavers to a full-service ag department. As we increased our agricultural services, the provincial government was cutting back on agricultural services. The County ag services and the provincial district agriculturalists had an awesome relationship over the years, but one by one the D.A.s left or retired. During the time when I was still in the fieldman’s office, we took over the parks department. Then I was asked to look after the recreation things, such as Pelican Point,” recalled Paul.

“We (the County) built the nature centre on the old Blatz gravel pit site, The Agricultural Services worked on that project for several years. We planted a lot of trees and grass, built trails and picnic sites and playgrounds, and that has turned into a real jewel for the County.
“In 1992, I was given the opportunity to take over the management of municipal waste which included three transfer sites and the West Dried Meat Regional Landfill. I was used to doing one budget, then three, which grew to five. I had three or four people working for/with me and all of a sudden, I had 15 people,” explained Paul.

“The increased responsibility was a really good opportunity for me to increase my understanding of the County. Fortunately, the County was awesome to work for, if you wanted to take any kind of continuing education, they really supported and encouraged it. That is one thing that I continued to push after I took over as the CAO–lifelong learning. As you know, if you stop for 10 seconds, life and change keep going. You have to continually read and train with governments, technology and legislation changing so fast.

“When Al Radke, who was the assistant CAO, moved on, I thought it was time to consider making a change and applied for and was given the assistant CAO position. I did that for a little over a year when Steve Gerlitz left. I was fortunate to be selected to be CAO and continued in that position for just over nine years,” said Paul, about his most recent post.

“I never thought I would be in that position. When I first came to the County, I thought I would be there a few years and move on. We (family) got established in Camrose, where my three boys were raised. The County allowed me to grow and that is what you want in a job. They offered the ability to move up the ladder and to grow your knowledge and skill base. It was a steep learning curve for me when I became the CAO, even for me after being with the County for 25 years. The learning curve from even the assistant CAO to CAO was a straight up spike,” added Paul.

“All the relationships and dealings with the provincial government were different. As CAO, you have to make budget decisions, review and undertake strategic planning, deal with human resources and all of the countless things you deal with as a CAO. I was pretty fortunate over my career in that I worked for 10 different councils, but those councils were only 28 councillors. The council had some real longevity so there was always that continuity. It was great to have mentors who you have the ability to talk to as people and are never scared to give you free advice,” laughed Paul.

“Some of the biggest challenges that I faced over my career were probably just making the team work cohesively. That is what I would say is the biggest accomplishment at the County, the team of good people we have recruited and grown over the years.”

“As I retire, I have absolutely no qualms about that team doing a great job. They made me look good for 33 years. That is what employees are supposed to do if you have the right ones,” said Paul.

Having coached in Camrose Minor Hockey and with the Augustana Vikings for several years, he learned the team approach.

“That was my approach, I was the coach, and the staff were the players. I just made sure they had the right resources. The provincial funding (and ongoing reduction of) has been a big challenge because it dropped significantly, which put a lot of pressure on municipal governments. The County has had to raise taxes or find money elsewhere to overcome those reductions. I don’t see that trend changing (lack of funding),” said Paul.

“To combat major swings in service levels and budgets, about three years ago, we got into priority-based budgeting because the County capacity box is only so big. If you want new programs or services, then you have to add more money, or drop some programs from that box, that is what priority-based budgeting sets up Council to do. Here in the County, the ratepayers want to know where their money is going,” he added.

“We have done this, at the same time as tucking some money away in reserves for those rainy days. Teresa will have challenges, but she will do a great job because we have a good team. Building networks is critical.”

Paul is especially proud of the consolidation of County services to one site, the new Camrose County Seed Cleaning Plant, the Camrose County Regional Firehall #2 and canola plant projects in the last few years. “The thing I am most proud of is–the team.

“What the future holds no one knows, but for now, for me, golf, ranching, grandkids, gardening and a little travel.”

Soccer Vikings shut out

By Murray Green

A new season of sports is under way at the University of Alberta, Augustana for the 2023-24 Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference season.
Soccer
 
The lady Vikings were crushed by the Lethbridge Kodiaks 8-0 in the single game on the weekend, September 23. Goalkeeper Hanna Orge made 14 saves on 22 shots directed her way. The Vikings are now 2-3 after five games.

After two games in Calgary against Ambrose on October 7 and SAIT October 8, the next home game is on October 14 when the Olds Broncos visit the city for a noon start. The next day October 15, the Vikings are in Medicine Hat for a contest.

Augustana hosts Lethbridge on October 20 at 1 p.m. to close out the regular season.
Cross-country

The Vikings cross-country running team will be hosting the fourth event at Augustana (Stoney Creek Centre) on October 14, beginning at noon.

The ACAC championships will be held on October 28 at Lethbridge.
 
Hockey

The Vikings host the Red Deer Kings on October 14 at 6 p.m. in the home opener.
Volleyball

The Vikings open in Grande Prairie (NorthWest) on October 13 and 14. The home opener is on October 20 against Keyano.

 
10 andrew and anne

Curls for a cause

Andrew Lang gets a sneak preview of what awaits him at the end of the Wildfire Perm Drive as Solo Salon Designs owner and stylist Anne Prytullack test runs the perm rods. Anne got the “rod” rolling on the fundraiser with a $250 donation.

By Lori Larsen

Despite being a nuisance, the smoke that lingered in the air throughout the summer acts as a reminder to us all the impact these wildfires have on everyone. However, having to put up with poor air quality seems like a small discomfort compared to those who have lost their homes, businesses, possessions and communities.

For new Camrosian Andrew Lang, the impact has hit a little closer to home.

“A month after I moved from Fox Creek and started working in Camrose, Fox Creek was evacuated,” said Andrew concerned about the people he knew, worked with and did business with.  “And my cousin who lives in Hay River, NWT has been evacuated from her home a few times over the last year and is still under an evacuation order.”

New to the community, Andrew was not entirely sure what avenues he wanted to take to achieve a goal of $5,000, so he reached out to the Canadian Red Cross for assistance and subsequent development of the Wildfire Perm Drive initiative.

 “Once we have reached a $5,000 goal, I have pledged to change my hairstyle, to a perm (donated by local hair stylist Anne Prytullack),” said Andrew, which would be a radical change but something Andrew is willing to do to show not only his support, but his seriousness about the devastation fellow Canadians are experiencing.

“Every day you want to grow and be a better person than you were yesterday,” said Andrew, adding that he has received a great deal of encouragement to get involved in community by his family and direct supervisor and has been supported incredibly by the Camrose community in this initiative.

With the guidance of the Canadian Red Cross, Andrew had posters made and distributed them around the community to encourage anyone to make a donation, but also bring about awareness of the plight of our neighbours to the north.
Donations to the Canadian Red Cross will be used for immediate and ongoing relief, recovery and resilience efforts in response to the fires in NWT.

Donations may also support communities assisting those impacted, as well as preparedness and risk reduction for future all-hazard disaster events within NWT and the region.

The Wildfire Perm Drive launched on September 21 with an end date on October 21.

“Your compassion will help provide vital humanitarian assistance to people in NWT who have been impacted by this disaster,” commented Andrew.

For more information on the Wildfire Perm Drive fundraiser or to make a donation to the Relief Fund, visit the Canadian Red Cross at  redcross.ca/NWTFiresAppeal/WildfirePermDrive.

For more information or continual updates on the Wildfire Perm Drive visit the Facebook page facebook.com/wildfirepermdrive.

Tina Turner tribute held at Bailey

By Murray Green

The Strathcona Royales present the music of Tina Turner on October 7 at 8 p.m.

Edmonton vocalists Riwo Egor and Ariana Witlow will be singing her music along with the Strathcona Royales.

Musical director and guitarist Alex Moxon backs up the powerful voices.

“The Strathcona Royales ran a concert series in Edmonton at the iconic venue Blues on Whyte this past summer where we performed monthly tributes to favourite R&B acts of years past. Tina was the first artist that came to my mind to feature. I’ve always admired her as a performer, her stage presence is legendary and her recordings helped to define the sound of several eras in music. We enjoyed the Tina program so much that we decided to take it to bigger stages in other parts of the country,” said Alex.

“I think it’s mainly that I really believe her when she’s singing. She is of course counted among the greatest lead singers in popular music, but when she is performing it’s more than just showbiz—she makes you feel that the song is coming from a real place. Tina also stood out from other acts of her day by putting out material that had subject matter that was more raw than most anyone else at the time. It isn’t all gumdrops and rainbows, which I think has contributed to her longevity because it all still feels relevant today. The songs themselves are also very gratifying to play as a performer broadly speaking they are pop tunes, but they are chock full of tricks and turns that keep you on your toes, which is exciting,” explained Alex.

“Our two leading ladies on the show have impeccable style and I’m sure they will be bringing their A game to the stage, but I’m afraid I can’t speak to their specific wardrobe choices. It will have to be a surprise. That said, the The Bailey Theatre will be running a Tina Turner lookalike competition at the show, so the audience is invited to attend wearing their finest Tina attire. Yes, there will be prizes,” shared Alex.

“I combed through her catalogue while weighing a few questions: was this a big hit? Does it have a danceable tempo? Does it sound extremely good? Is it extremely fun to play? So all of the songs we are bringing with us have a varying, but high degree of all of these things,” he continued.

He was asked what his favourite Tina song to play was.
“That is a tough one! If you ask me tomorrow, I may have a different answer. But right now, I’d have to say it’s a tie between ‘Nutbush City Limits’ (the ‘70s version) and ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It.’ They were both ahead of their time and the parts for every band member are very hooky and fun to dig in to,” Alex added.

“As a recent ex-pat from Ontario (as of 2022), I feel that I am literally sight-seeing in Alberta every day. It’s all brand new to me. It has been nice to see Canada in the context of a broader musical culture and to see how every city is distinct and also a bit the same. Any theatre with a history like the Bailey has/should be treated like a national treasure. In the post pandemic chapter of live music in Canada (and probably the world at large), we owe our support to these beautiful venues and stages that had to go dark for months and months (or even years). They don’t make them like they used to! And, in my books, nothing compares to seeing a killer show in its intended setting,” he concluded.
11 probus month

Probus celebrates 26 years in Camrose

City of Camrose Mayor PJ Stasko and Probus Club of Camrose president Alex Oliver declared October as Probus month, with witnesses archive director Bonnie Oliver, back left,  past president Kathy Stables, Jack Stoddart and vice-president Dave Kotyk looking on. Camrose launched a Probus Club on September 25, 1995, joining 255 clubs and 38,000 Probians in celebrating 26 years in Camrose and 33 years in Canada.

By Murray Green

Probus Club of Camrose is celebrating 26 years of service in this community.

The goal of the Probus organization is to provide fellowship, friendship and fun for all men and women in their retirement and semi-retirement years.

“We are a volunteer based, non-profit, non-political, non-sectarian fellowship organization with more than 4,000 clubs worldwide, about 250 Canadian clubs made up of more than 35,000 members. Our clubs are all about encouraging healthy minds and bodies and socializing with other retirees in the community,” said president Alex Oliver.

Camrose Probus Club has men and women members and began in 1995. They meet every third Tuesday of the month at the Norsemen Inn at 9:30 a.m. to listen to an awesome guest speaker and to ask questions. On special occasions they may meet at other venues. They meet every month except July and August.

“In Probus, you’ll find a wealth of new experiences and a much-expanded social network, a chance to explore your community, Canada and the world with new friends,” explained Alex.

The emphasis is that the club be simple in structure, be free of the constraints, obligations of service clubs and involve members in a minimal cost. The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other, and the opportunity for development of acquaintance.
12 tipi raising jazmine seth

Tipi raising in Round Hill evokes cultural awareness

Round Hill School Grade 8 students left to right Seth Ewald and Jazmine Keusch stood at the “gateway” door to the tipi ready to go in and experience the tradition behind the amazing structure.

By Lori Larsen

On September 19, Round Hill School had the distinct honour of taking part in the raising of a tipi purchased by the Round Hill Renaissance Agricultural Foundation, on the grassy field just south of the school adjacent to the Renaissance gardens.

Elder and Knowledge Keeper Brad Rabbit, assisted by other community volunteers, raised the tipi in the presence of the entire school body, members of the Round Hill Renaissance Agriculture Foundation, guests from Battle River School Division (BRSD), including Superintendent Rhae-Ann Holoien, and members of the community.

“Indigenous tradition, history and ways of knowing are an important piece of Round Hill’s past,” noted Round Hill School teacher Taren Lindstrand. “Incorporating Indigenous values not only makes education meaningful and relevant to Indigenous students but allows non-Indigenous students to experience important Canadian history in an Indigenous perspective first hand.”
The entire process took approximately one and a half hours from the staking out of the site to the fully upright traditional 18-foot canvas tipi.

Throughout the entire process, Elder Rabbit shared a moving commentary with an explanation of the symbolism of the tipi and its parts, and the important value Indigenous people place on mother and Mother Earth.

“First Nations people are spiritual people,” said Elder Rabbit, “And we acknowledge our connection to all of creation through our way of life, ceremony and even through the way we set up our lodge (tipi).”

The process of setting up the tipi lodge began with lifting into place the three most significant poles.

The poles were placed 17 feet apart, stretching toward the sky, symbolic of connecting to the Creator and were firmly planted on the ground as a connection to Mother Earth.

 “Every part of the tipi has symbolism and a meaning behind it,” explained Rabbit. “Our forefathers told us stories of the time of creation when the Creator, our Father, made mankind. He asked all of creation–the animals, the grass the trees, the bugs–‘Who wants to help me to create mankind?’ and all of them got up and said, “Pick me, Father, pick me,’” said Rabbit, raising his arms in the air creating a triangle with his arms and body.

“He chose Mother Earth. He took a piece of Mother Earth and molded it into our bodies, took a piece of the sun and put it into our heart. That’s why our bodies are warm, we have a fire inside of us, then He took water and put it inside and a breath of the wind and blew it into our lungs so we could breathe.

“The three poles symbolize our Creator acknowledging all wanting to be part of that process.”

Rabbit went on to explain the significant role women, specifically mothers, play in Indigenous culture and tradition.

“The female gender–woman–is so powerful in first nations spirituality. Women are powerful–they give life and we respect that and acknowledge that in our lodge.”

Rabbit made many references to the importance of mother in the family as well as the symbolism of the tipi to mother and Mother Earth.

“Mom is the foundation of the home, she protects, she is the backbone. The last pole represents the spine and the spine is the overall foundation of our body,” said Rabbit, pointing out the shape of the tipi and how it resembles a dress (once wrapped in the canvas), acknowledging the dress of Mother Earth and how it envelopes all those inside in safety.
The three main poles were then tied off in a spiral formation.

“The spiral formation symbolizes our synchronicity, relationship and connection with all of creation.”

As the process continued, Rabbit explained the placing of the door poles.
“Traditionally, the gateway to the tipi faces the rising sun–east. It acknowledges the rising sun.

“As First Nations people, we believe that the spirit world is to the south, so we are going to put the tipi (gateway door) facing south.”

Once the poles were in place, the canvas was wrapped and pins (pegs) were used to tie down and stabilize the tipi.

“The pins symbolize the different holds of Mother Earth’s apron, unified by family. They symbolize family and kinship–brothers, sisters, aunties, uncles, grandparents. In order for a home to be complete, we need family,” commented Rabbit, adding that the pegs also symbolize kinship of human race. “How we need to see eye to eye with one another, we are all part of our Mother Earth.”

Once the tipi was fully and safely set up, all of the students, individual grades at a time, were invited to enter the tipi, walk the inside perimeter (clockwise) to get a feel of the incredible feat of engineering, but more importantly the powerful sense of connection to Indigenous culture.
The tipi will be used by the staff and students of the Round Hill School as a valuable tool in the students’ learning experience. In speaking with teachers and students, they were overjoyed at the gift of the tipi, fascinated by the teachings of Elder Rabbit and excited to be able to use the tipi for future classroom lessons.

“The tipi will serve as an excellent location for students of Round Hill School, the BRSD, and community to use for everything from quiet time, education, Indigenous teachings, reading and writing,” said Lindstrand. “It is a very special and unique opportunity for our community.”

The tipi stands tall on the grassy field just south of the modern Round Hill School,  depicting an era of tradition and culture and offering a meaningful place for sharing, learning and connecting.

BRSD schedule attendance boundary reviews

By Murray Green

Battle River School Division (BRSD) rescheduled postponed boundary review dates that focus on the improvement of student and family satisfaction within division boundaries.

The BRSD board of trustees are going ahead with review discussions. After 28 years of population shifts, school closures, shifting ride lengths, this review will assist in determining where boundaries may be adjusted to best accommodate BRSD families and ever-changing student demographics.

Initially scheduled for spring 2023, meetings were postponed due to changes to government guidelines for school transportation processes and budget restrictions.

Four October public meeting dates have been scheduled. These community sessions will be held in October from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Registration is not required and everyone is welcome. Your feedback will assist to make any changes to existing division boundaries.

The four dates are October 12 at École Camrose Composite High School; October 16 at New Norway School; October 17 at Ryley School and October 18 at Daysland School.

Parents unable to attend a meeting in person will be encouraged to provide feedback through an online survey. The survey link will be available on BRSD district website from October 19 to 28.

A consultant will assist in steering this project. Through this attendance boundary review and update, it is the goal to support schools in providing quality educational opportunities, while ensuring that boundaries aren’t influenced by artificial factors, notably municipal lines. Updated boundaries should reflect changing demographics, ensuring that they are logical and efficient.

BRSD wants your input to effectively evaluate how specific changes could improve experience of families and students within the division.
13 ron fischer 28 ford bawlf

Fischer rebuilds ’28 Ford from scratch

Ron Fischer modernized his 1928 Ford Model A to drive like a new car, but still have some old-car charm. He found the car in several pieces and restored it to honour the past.

By Murray Green

Ron Fischer of Camrose owns a 1928 Ford Model A car.

“A friend of mine started building it and it was in parts. I added new fenders and running gear in it. I fixed everything in it and it could be a daily driver,” said Ron.

“I like the older street rods, today we have new cars, but I still like the old stuff. I was in the autobody trade when I was younger, so I like to fix things. This car rides like a dream. I modernized everything for comfort,” Ron said.

The Ford Model A was the Ford Motor Company’s second market success, replacing the venerable Model T, which had been produced for 18 years. It was first produced on October 20, 1927, but not introduced until December 2. This new Model A (a previous model had used the name in 1903–04) was designated a 1928 model and was available in four standard colours.

“I added new brakes (discs in the front, drums in the back), air conditioning and a V8 engine. Any little object that you can think of, I replaced it. I have a Chevy engine and a four speed overdrive transmission in this car. It is also a chopped car. The top roof has been chopped and filled in, lowered. It is two and a half to three inches lower,” added Ron.

“It was painted a General Motors colour. It is a midnight blue and I like that colour and it has tinted glass too. I built this car right from scratch. The fenders in the back are not as big as the originals,” said Ron.
He brought the car out this spring to the car show in Bawlf. The Ford made its debut in Round Hill last fall.

“The wiring was a mess, so that was the hardest thing to straighten out and fix. We had to untangle all of the wiring before we could figure out how to replace it. The old wiring was thrown in and was out of an old ‘80s truck. The doors are original, but the car was in a lot of pieces when I took it over,” shared Ron.

By February 4, 1929, one million Model A’s had been sold, and by July 24, two million. The range of body styles ran from the Tudor at US$500 (in grey, green, or black) to the town car with a dual cowl at US$1,200, In March 1930, Model A sales hit three million and there were nine body styles available.

“We finished the car last year, but we recently changed the shocks and suspension. I’m always tinkering with them to make them better. I did everything except Paul’s Upholstery in Wetaskiwin helped with the seats and interior,” said Ron.

Model A production ended in March 1932, after 4,858,644 had been made in all body styles.
FUN FACTS

The engine was a water-cooled L-head inline four with a displacement of 201 cubic inches. This engine provided 40 horsepower. Top speed was around 65 mph and had a 103.5 in (2,630 mm) wheelbase with a final drive ratio of 3.77:1. The transmission was a conventional unsynchronized three-speed sliding-gear manual with a single speed reverse. The Model A had four-wheel mechanical drum brakes. The 1930 and 1931 models were available with stainless steel radiator cowlings and headlamp housings.

The Model A was the first Ford to use the standard set of driver controls with conventional clutch and brake pedals, throttle, and gearshift. Previous Fords used controls that had become uncommon to drivers of other makes. The Model A’s fuel tank was situated in the cowl, between the engine compartment’s fire wall and the dash panel. It had a visual fuel gauge, and the fuel flowed to the carburetor by gravity. A rear-view mirror was optional.

In cooler climates, owners could purchase an aftermarket cast iron unit to place over the exhaust manifold to provide heat to the cab. A small door provided adjustment of the amount of hot air entering the cab. The Model A was the first car to have safety glass in the windshield.

Junior Kodiaks split weekend league games

By Murray Green

Camrose Kodiaks of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) split a pair of games on September 22 and 23.

The Kodiaks beat the Bonnyville Pontiacs 5-3 on the strength of three tallies in the middle frame. Bonnyville led 1-0 after the first period.

Camrose came out hard in the second with Lynden Donald-Gorman connecting in the first minute. After a Pontiacs’ marker, Odin George and Garret Thom notched goals for the Kodiaks.
In the third, Levi Carter and Lucas Lemieux added to the lead with goals.

Goalie Liam Bechthold stopped 19 of 22 shots directed his way, while his teammates fired 41 shots at the Bonnyville cage.
A lack of a power play cost the Kodiaks a 3-1 game at the hands of the Calgary Canucks on September 23. They were zero for six with a man advantage.

Calgary built up a 3-0 lead before captain Myles Gauld netted his third goal of the season.

Goalie Charlie Zolin turned away 40 of 43 shots to record the win. Camrose fired 23 shots at the Whitecourt cage.

The Crusaders scored two more in the third before Alexander Bryson closed the gap to 6-3.

Goalie Charlie Zolin  turned away 23 of 26 shots he faced. Camrose fired 36 shots at the Canucks’ net.

The next home game for the Kodiaks is on October 3 when Whitecourt is in the city for a 7 p.m. game time. Camrose also hosts Canmore Eagles on October 8 and Blackfalds on October 20.
15 trojans football

Football Trojans battle for first place

It’s a bit of a stretch to say Kale Rempel made a fantastic tackle, but he got the job done against Nate Soanes and the Wetaskiwin Sabres, winning 27-12 on September 28.

By Murray Green

The École Camrose Composite High School Trojans football team put its unbeaten record on the line against their rival Wetaskiwin Sabres winning 27-12, September 28.

The Trojans defeated Peace River 17-0 in Camrose and then blanked Coaldale 25-0 in its second contest.

“Peace River competed in the league last year and lost in the cross-over game of the playoffs. We had a close game with them, with a fight all the way through. We went into the heart of football in Alberta and played Coaldale and had another good showing,” said head coach Josh Millang.

The game against Wetaskiwin was not only a battle for first place, but for the Highway 13 Cup as well.

“We have to give credit to all of the boys on this team. We play tough defence, doing what we gotta do to play well. We put in extra hard work in every day. Our D-backs are strong, but our line and linebackers are our strong point by stopping the run. They have good gap control, stopping the flow of the run,” said Layne McNalley, a defensive back.

“We are looking at new formations, using a lot more communication and using different defensive strategies to prepare for the offensive set we are going to get,” added Layne.

The Camrose Buffaloes program has strengthened high school football. “We have had an excellent group of players come up and that is credit to the minor programs. They had a good year, last year, and you can see the development of the players. It makes it easier for them to transition to the high school level. Twelve of the 18 starters we have are rookies at the high school level,” explained Josh.

“Some are rookie Grade 11 or 12 players, but the majority are Grade 10. It has been an exciting year.”

Adam Belanger coached the team last year with Josh assisting. This year, Josh is the head coach and defensive coach and Adam heads up the offence. “We wanted a little less on his plate and I was ready to assume more duties so it has worked out well. I have to thank the parents who helped me with the transition,” said Josh.

“The team is hoping to move back to 12-man football next year. “It is exciting to have more players and more parent support as well.” 

The Trojans football season wraps up with a game in Ponoka on October 12.

Ferguson reaps two gold medals

By Murray Green

“Our athletes have been running extremely well and we have got some great results including both Top School awards for high school boys and girls at the Vikings Race. A special congratulations goes out to these athletes: Dawson Ferguson–gold medal at both the Viking Race and the Brownfield Race; Ava Heie–gold medal at the Viking Race and silver medal at the Brownfield Race; Justus Sveinborjnson–bronze medal at the Viking Race; Lauryn Woodford–bronze medal at the Brownfield Race.”

There are two races left in the Battle River Race Series and the zones meet which is just for Grade 10 to 12 students. The last two races in the Battle River Race Series are the Hardisty Race October 5 and the Bashaw Race October 12. The zones meet takes place in Red Deer on October 11.
 
Volleyball

“September is a busy month for volleyball, ÉCCHS has seven teams competing.  Our two Grade 9 girls’ teams and one boys’, junior volleyball and senior volleyball teams have all had their first regular season games and each team has competed in at least one tournament,” said Graeme Thain, athletic director.

Some of the September highlights include Grade 9 boys winning their home tournament, while the girls were runners up as well as the junior girls finishing second at their own home tournament.

Bruins host Lacombe in hockey battle

By Murray Green

The Camrose Bruins launched its first North Central Hockey League season.

The Bruins edged the Westlock Warriors 5-4 in exhibition play on September 24. Camrose outscored the visitors 2-1 in each of the first two periods to record the victory.

Home games will be at the Max McLean Arena beginning at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

Home North Central Senior Hockey League games are on Saturday, October 21 versus Morinville; Saturday, November 4 against Red Deer; Saturday, November 11 versus Lacombe; Saturday, November 18 against Wetaskiwin; Friday, December 8 versus Bonnyville; Saturday, January 6 against Lacombe and Saturday, February 3 against Red Deer.

Buffaloes contain Ravens

By Murray Green

The Camrose Buffaloes bantam team play in the 12A side Mills Division in the Capital District Minor Football Association.

The Buffaloes hammered the Fort McMurray Ravens 41-6 to improve its record to 2-1 on September 23.

Camrose take on the Edmonton Wolverines on October 8 in an away contest.

The Buffaloes finally have a home game on October 14 against the Spruce Grove Cougars in Kin Park. Camrose is back in St. Albert on October 21.

The peewee squad play in the peewee nine-side division in the Capital District. Camrose ambushed the Fort Saskatchewan Falcons 35-6 to improve to 3-0 on the season.
 
22 vicky barclay and student

Students recognize truth and reconciliation

École Sifton School teacher Vicky Barclay and Grade 5 student Oliver Gurrola show their rocks of support.

By Lori Larsen

Camrosians may have noticed a spattering of orange throughout the City on September 30 as organizations and members showed support for Truth and Reconciliation Day (Orange Shirt Day) with a variety of displays all featuring the colour orange.

The day honours the children who never returned home and survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities.

Orange Shirt Day, as it was originally coined,  is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters”.

The orange shirt is a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.

In Camrose, as was the case in many communities across Canada, symbolic gestures of displaying orange items ranged from hundreds of orange flags placed on the boulevard leading up to the University of Alberta Augustana Campus and around the tipi that stands at the north entrance to Augustana, to École Sifton School Vicky Barclay’s Grade 5 class painting rocks orange, all done in commemoration of Truth and Reconciliation Day.

“The students bring in rocks, which we paint bright orange,” said Vicky. “Then they write a word on their rock–like ‘reconciliation’, ‘hope’ or ‘truth’.”

On September 30, Vicky and husband Greg (a teacher at École Camrose Composite High School) went on the valley walking trails placing the rocks along the trails as a reminder to all visiting the trails to take a moment and reflect on the significance of Truth and Reconciliation Day.

“I take photos of the rocks and post the photos on social media,” said Vicky. “Many of my students walk on the trails after the rocks are placed and are happy to see their work displayed.”

In speaking on the importance of recognizing Orange Shirt Day, students commented:

 “Orange Shirt Day is important to me because we acknowledge survivors of Residential Schools.  The Orange Rock Project is important so we can contribute to Orange Shirt Day and reconciliation.”

“I think Orange Shirt Day is a wonderful way to acknowledge the things that happened to the Indigenous kids, but not only that, to bring hope.”

“It means to me for us to honour the kids who passed, and to tell the people who survived–we love you.”

With younger generations being taught and older generations reminded, the hope is that one day the spirit of truth and reconciliation will be the organic consequence.

New family doctor in Daysland

By Murray Green

The Daysland community welcomed a new family physician to Daysland.

Originally from Nigeria, Dr. Adetola Lawal has started a full-time family medicine practice at the Daysland Medical Clinic.
Dr. Lawal will join three physicians already practicing in the community.

“This is great news for the community of Daysland. Family physicians are vital to the health of rural Albertans and Dr. Lawal’s desire to practice in this region is greatly valued,” said Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely.

Students experience health care profession

By Lori Larsen

With growing concern over a gap in healthcare professionals, the importance of providing opportunities to young students to experience what a career in healthcare could look like is vital in helping fill that gap and opening the field of options for students.
In an effort to expose students to various healthcare professions and encourage students to pursue careers in healthcare, the Young Medical Minds program, a highly interactive learning experience targeting students from grade 8 in the Camrose and surrounding area, was created.

Young Medical Minds is a joint initiative between Alberta Health Services, Covenant Health, University of Alberta, Augustana Campus and Camrose local medical community, and is sponsored by various local and provincial individuals and organizations.

“The program follows a Grade 8 student, STAN, who gets a recreational injury,” explained Young Medical Minds co-founder and Camrose family physician Dr. Christopher Nichol.

“Over his journey to recovery, the grade 8 participants complete hands-on workshops over six sessions, consisting of: emergency medical services, a hospital emergency room, diagnostic imaging, nursing, rehabilitation and mental health, as well as graduation from the program.”

There are several underlying themes that are emphasized throughout the program, the first of which  is an emphasis on hands-on learning.

“Didactic learning is kept to less than 30 minutes in each session,” explained Nichol. “The next theme is teamwork, emphasizing how healthcare is delivered in teams. The third theme is recruitment, which is important because rural areas face challenges with getting more healthcare workers.”

Some of the activities the students participate in include: learning how to cast, putting on a Philadelphia neck collar, intraosseous injection and suturing a wound, all of which are taught by healthcare professionals from the community of Camrose.

“The program allows professionals to show and explain why they appreciate their occupations and working in rural areas,” noted Nichol. “The last and most important theme is fun–we want students to ask questions and enjoy their time learning.”

Young Medical Minds runs twice a year, beginning in September and in January and takes place over approximately six weeks.

If you, or anyone you know, is interested in enrolling their child into the program contact youth.careers@ahs.ca.
1 bonnieapr2021

Reflections

By Bonnie Hutchinson

Underwhelmed
 
I’m glad to be Canadian. I cannot think of another country where I’d rather live. I love Canada’s natural beauty. I’m grateful for our freedom and our relative safety, compared to many other places. I appreciate Canadians’ ability to disagree without violence. Besides that, most of my favourite people live in Canada.

But–right now I’m decidedly not impressed with our Canadian government.

People outside of Canada don’t think about us much. I like being unobtrusive! Lower risk of enemies. On the other hand, lately nations who have been our allies could be forgiven for losing patience or even respect for our country.
 
***
 
Example 1. The Canadian government has never contributed what Canada promised to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Along with other NATO allies, the Canadian government pledged to commit two per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) to the military. However, NATO’s latest annual report shows that last year Canada spent just 1.3 per cent of its GDP on the military.

And now? The federal government has just told National Defence to cut $1 billion from its 2023-24 budget of $26.5 billion. How’s that going to get us to two per cent?
At a NATO summit, our government faced bad press and increased pressure to step up its financial commitment. Recently, a U.S. senator called us a bunch of freeloaders, which we are. It’s like we want to play with the big kids, but don’t want to pay the price of admission.
 
***

Example 2. Last week, our Canadian Parliament offering a standing ovation to visitors including a former Nazi commander who, during Second World War, was particularly brutal to people of the Ukraine.

Our elected Members of Parliament did this as the President of the Ukraine was visiting.

Yes, the Speaker of the House took full responsibility for the colossal error and resigned.

Our Prime Minister apologized. He said that just one person was responsible–the Speaker of the House.

Uh huh. Seriously?

As someone who has worked for government, I know it cannot be true that only one person is responsible.

Elected people have so many commitments that they don’t have time to research or read everything that’s presented to them. It’s likely that a staff person prepared words for the Speaker of the House to say, and the Speaker read what was handed to him.

I don’t expect the Speaker of the House to personally check the background of those being honoured by Parliament. However, it appears that the Speaker’s staff also didn’t check the background of visitors being honoured.

Not check the background of people who are going to be honoured?

“Oops, I apologize” doesn’t cut it. It was a terrible gaffe.
 
***
 
Example 3. Canada is now on the outs with both China and India.

Google reports that 8,045,311,447 people are alive on the planet today. Of those more than eight billion people, 1,431,805,506 live in India (about 19 per cent of the world’s people) and 1,425,671,350 people live in China (about 18% of the world’s people). Those two Asian countries make up 37 per cent–more than one third–of the world’s population.

Statistics Canada reports that in July, Canada’s population was 40,097,761–about 0.005 per cent, or 5/1000th of the world’s population.

No doubt Canada’s government has valid reasons to be cautious in relating to both countries. On the other hand, being at odds with more than a third of the world’s population may not be in Canada’s best interest.
 
***
 
For the record, I’m a political agnostic. I have in my lifetime voted Conservative, Liberal, NDP and Green. I have never not voted.

Back to our Prime Minister. For several years, it’s been my impression that if there’s a whiff of trouble, his typical response is simple. Find someone to throw under the bus and then offer a “heartfelt” apology in which he blames that person.

I deeply appreciate Canada. But our current federal government? I’m underwhelmed.
 
***


I’d love to hear from you. If you have comments about this column or suggestions for future topics, send an email to Bonnie@BonnieHutchinson.com. I’ll happily reply within two business days.
Laurel nadon 2019
Homespun By Laurel Nadon

Homespun

By Laurel Nadon

Reset in September
 
I used to love the month of September. Cozy sweaters, hot drinks at coffee shops, the burst of colour in the countryside with the changing leaves. As a teenager, I thought that fall would be the perfect season for a wedding too.

Now as an adult and a parent, September is, well, crazy, chaotic, an avalanche of emails about class photos, sports tryouts, permission forms to fill out. It can feel a bit overwhelming to get the school year off to a start and, to be perfectly honest, a bit emotional too. (I was cutting onions that first day of school, honest!) I’ve gotten over the initial shock of not having the kids nearby for adventuring, and it truly is a shock after spending so much time together in the summer.

Then in the first week of school came the radio ads talking about “returning to routine”. I kind of loathe the word routine. The routine of drop-offs and pick-ups, meals at specific times so we can get to certain places at a certain time, the routine of having less quality time with our kids? It can be a hard pill to swallow, especially while the weather remains nice and it feels like summer holidays could have lasted for at least another month… or two. An email came about school photo day, only it didn’t say which school. We thought all three kids might have to dress up just in case, but then a second clarifying email arrived. Sometimes when I’m driving I’ll forget who I am picking up from what activity, but luckily my van is like a trusty steed and usually guides me to the correct location.

On an afternoon walk with a friend, she helped me to see September in a new light when she said that she uses the month as her reset time instead of New Year’s. She thinks about what goals she has, what new things she wants to try, what she wants more or less of in her life. As we talked, I realized that I had already started a similar list in my head without realizing it. Why wait for January 1 to push the refresh button when we can do it right now?

For the first few weeks of school, my focus has been on harvesting the garden. I have been busy making pickles and applesauce, cooking and chopping up corn, harvesting the cucumbers, onions and potatoes. Pumpkins and tomatoes are next. Then the focus shifted to preparing the motorhome for winter and actually taking broken items/games we have outgrown out of the cupboards. It’s hard not to think of September as “almost winter” because the shift in focus is to prepare us for the cold ahead: washing outside windows, vacuuming the van, repainting the swing set. September, I love you and hate you at the same time!

I love the crisp mornings, especially when I head outside with my medium breed, fuzzy farm dog for a bike ride or run first thing before I settle into the day’s tasks. I love watching for the red dogwood leaves in the low bushes (but my kids aren’t surprised when I holler at a leaf to get back on the tree as it swirls to the ground). I love catching up with a friend over a steaming chai latte at a coffee shop. (I am the only adult I know who walks into a coffee shop and only wants something that doesn’t have…ugh…coffee in it.) I love that my kids have so many opportunities to learn new things: cross-country running, volleyball, music, woodworking, mechanics, food studies. Their brains are getting a workout.

As I slowly work my way through my “almost winter” projects, I’ll try to bring my focus again and again to the parts of September that I adore while muddling through the parts that I don’t. So, September…one thing at a time, we’ve got this.

My favourite on the list is number two, remembering the simple pleasures in life. Watching the clouds wasn’t the main point of the day; it wasn’t planned, it didn’t require any money and yet it had been deeply “satisfying.”

As summer (as sad as I am to say this) begins to draw to a close, life for many will get busier. There will be drop-offs and pick ups, more emails to send, after school activities to be prepared for, meals at specific times to get everyone where they need to be. But yet, in my mind, to make it all worthwhile, there needs to be at least one time slot in each day where we do something that makes us just feel so alive, so blessed to be on this earth, so in love with the people around us, that as we wrap up that day and reflect on it, we can pick out that one thing that was “so satisfying.”

Deaths

  • Amanda Dyer, of Camrose, on September 21, at 48 years of age.
  • Don “Hoe-Cat” Anger, of Rocky Mountain House, formerly of Camrose, on September 22, at 87 years of age.
  • Harriet “Isabel” Brace, of Camrose, on September 23, at 89 years of age.
  • Herman Julius Bauer, of Camrose, formerly of Vegreville, on September 28, at 84 years of age.