17 minute read
CRE welcomes changes to board
Send your LETTER TO THE EDITOR to:
The Camrose Booster 4925-48 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1L7 or email it to:
news@camrosebooster.com
THE FINE PRINT: We welcome letters that are of public interest, are fact based and represent logical attempts to make a constructive contribution to public discourse. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, legality, good taste and to fit available space. Letters that contain personal attacks or abuse and insults will be edited or rejected entirely. Letters to third parties are not accepted. Please limit your letters to 400 words and sign with your first name, initial, surname, address and phone number; only the name of the writer and city or town will be published. We thank you for your interest in this feature and encourage your comments.
Freedom for security
I believe it was it was Benjamin Franklin who said, “Those who would give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.”
I’m not sure I totally agree with the last part of his quote, but I do agree that it is extremely unwise to trade our freedom for security.
In “Just Sayin’”, in the Dec. 29th issue of The Camrose Booster, I appreciated what Bryan Hookenson had to say in his letter, “Stole Christmas”, and I encourage everyone to read it.
I agree 100 per cent with him. I applaud him for speaking the truth. And I hear countless people, including myself, voicing the same opinions as this man.
So now I ask everyone, what are we going to do about this? Are we going to stand together and say “enough”, or are we going to silently let these restrictions and lockdowns continue?
It causes me to constantly read our Charter of Rights and Freedoms. That is what we stand on, and no one can take that away from us, no matter how intimidating they try to be.
To back us up and reinforce our knowledge of our rights and freedoms, Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms (jccf.ca) out of Calgary, work tirelessly and pro bono for our rights and freedoms. Thank God for those amazing men and women.
One thing they encourage us to do is to email our government officials constantly, overwhelming them with our emails, telling them we want these restrictions and lockdowns to stop.
We now have an obligation to fight for our freedoms within our own country, for those who fought for our freedoms in another country.
Let us all stand together as Albertans to help make Canada the True North, Strong and Free we are supposed to be.
We are Alberta. We are the West. We are Free. Amie N. Kozmeniuk, Camrose
Drama continues
The COVID-19 drama continues on and on, flowing right into 2021. The numbers in Quebec and Ontario are climbing higher and higher. Now there seems to be a complete lockdown, with people required to be at home at a certain time. Here in our community, our numbers are at an acceptable rate. For most of us who have been obeying all of recommendations by our government, there is only one question on most of our minds. When will this all end?
This seems to be the nightmare which never has an ending. Most of us did not have a normal Christmas. We were all looking forward to Jan. 11 when the restaurants were all going to reopen for indoor dining. Now this will not happen until Jan. 21. Now, please do not get me wrong; this is a very serious disease. We all need to do our part to stop this virus from spreading. I just wonder, will there be an end to this nightmare or will this be the new norm? Lorne Vanderwoude, Camrose
Right thing
Thank you to our friends and family and all residents who showed a conscience and did the right thing by staying home this Christmas. We were supposed to have 12 at our place, but scaled it back to just the two of us. Our parents, brother and family, and daughter all cancelled flights from BC. They stayed home to flatten the curve. Same with our kids who live in Edmonton. We missed being together this year, but we did this because it was the right thing to do.
For all of us, it meant we couldn’t be close to many of our loved ones during a special time of the year. You showed a conscience and did your part to flatten the curve. You also showed more leadership than many of our Elected Officials, who chose to ignore the advice to avoid nonessential travel, advice from Dr. Hinshaw and the provincial government.
Albertans deserve and expect better from those in leadership roles. Thank you for doing your part during this pandemic. Kevin Smook, Beaver County
Many changes
What a difference a year makes. A little while ago, I was at a local bank and noted how much things have changed in a year. A year ago, if I had worn a mask and walked into that same bank, all the tellers would have been hiding under their desks and pushing silent alarms, and police cars would be arriving in droves. Now, no mask gets a police response.
After having been the victim in an armed bank robbery, I look at it completely different than most. When I see masks on people in a bank, it gives me the complete opposite feeling to that of security.
A year ago, if you approached a playground with a mask on, you would have been on your way to jail. Now, if you show up without a mask, you are the criminal.
Other changes include:
The professional sports heroes now feel that they have been so badly done by their countries that they no longer wish to stand for the National Anthem, they would rather kneel. I find it hard to sympathize with a person making millions of dollars playing a game that kids play for nothing, objecting to honouring the flag and nation that has allowed them the privilege of making stacks of money for playing a game.
Let us be perfectly clear here, your feelings about a government or its leaders have nothing to do with your love of country. If it did, I would not be standing for our national anthem either, but it’s not about the drama coach and lifeguard leading Canada, it is about our country.
It was so nice to watch the junior hockey players stand and face their countries’ flags, shed tears of joy and those of sorrow without taking a knee or being paid a cent, just for the love of country and the sport. I will not be buying tickets, hats, and other team paraphernalia, and I am disconnecting my sports packages; these professional prima donnas deserve nothing in the way of respect. In fact, why don’t they move to China or some third world county and see how much their skills are appreciated and paid for there?
In conclusion, let’s try and remember that although we feel that government is our savior financially, it is not. Governments do not create wealth; they only spend it. Someone must create the wealth, and we are going to have a heck of a time creating wealth hiding in our homes with masks on forever. Bryan Hookenson, Kingman CRE welcomes changes to board By Lori Larsen became a member of and
The Camrose Regional remained with for the next Exhibition (CRE) recent- 26 years.” ly announced changes to Of those 26 years Byers the positions CRE Execu- was chairman for seven, so tive Committee (board of there is no doubt where his directors) beginning with passion lies. the newly appointed presi- “My involvement with dent Brent Byers who the CRE has been lifelong was currently serving as and over that time I realvice-president. ized the great importance
Past president Mark of an agricultural society Schneider will be stepping and the CRE as a cominto the position of vice- munity hub where people president. can get together and share
Other positions con- experiences,” he said notsist of secretary, Sandy ing that long before the Scott and treasurer, Jake days of social media, the Vermeer. events occurring at the
Schneider commented CRE were the social aspect on his time as president in many peoples lives. with the CRE. “It was my “A chance to gather honour to serve as presi- with like minded neighdent for the past three bours and enjoy not only years at CRE. “CRE went through a great deal of transition during this period and many challenges and I believe we have the solid foundation for growth forward. I look forward to being involved in some level with CRE for many years.” New president Brent Byers remarked. “I am excited for the opportunity to serve the Board as it’s president and thank the board for this opportunity.” the event but the public interaction as well.” This strong connection Byers shares with the CRE and the agriculture industry fuels his belief that the CRE needs to continue to fill this important niche in the communities it serves and keep people connected, informed and entertained. “Going forward, the goal of the board is to keep the CRE viable and accessible to any and all who need a place to gather and share,” remarked Byers. “This includes not only physical events and experiences on site but also virtual sharing of information with podcasts, video and other platforms to reach target groups. The spectrum is broad, from gardening enthusiasts, livestock shows and sales, tourism aspects and conferences and more. The only limit is the imagination.” Brent Byers Like many organizations waiting in limbo durByers is no stranger to the workings of the CRE, as a member of the board in his fourth year. “I have been involved with the CRE since the mid eighties with the team roping club and I belonged to holding jackpots out at the CRE. “In the early days, Gord Porteous and Larry Werner were the heart of what would become the CRE. While the building was present, their office was still in the Drill Hall at the old Fairgrounds ing the COVID-19 pandemic the CRE is currently closed due to COVID regulations. “The longer this hold persists the more difficult things become with going forward and being viable. That said, we do have a fantastic team ready to be turned loose once the restrictions are lifted. I for one am very enthusiastic to see what this team can do going forward. We have the team, we need the season to start.” Byers went on to say that he believes the CRE in Camrose.” has the right people, in
Byers attended the the right chairs to really University of Alberta in capitalize and return to the the fall of 1986, cutting hub of activity for Camrose his academic career short when allowed to do so. when he started riding When restrictions are bulls with the University changed or removed the Rodeo Club. CRE board and staff will
“In the spring of 1987, I be ready to get things humwas involved with bringing ming again and continue the Edmonton Intercolle- offering the many services giate Rodeo Association to and events it has come to the CRE for two consecu- be recognized for in and tive years. around Camrose.
“This ultimately led to Currently the CRE is the organization of the Pro offering MeatNanza Draw Rodeo Committee in the tickets. To purchase tickets summer of 1988 which I telephone 780-672-3640.
Talk to us today about the benefits of pre-planning funeral arrangements
The idea of advance funeral planning is one which many people would rather not think about. However, planning your own funeral is one of the kindest things you can do for your loved ones. At a time of grief, your family members will be spared the stress of making important, emotionally draining decisions. Pre-planning also ensures your final arrangements will be carried out according to your exact wishes, in a cost-sensitive manner. Call us today for more information about advance funeral planning or to arrange a no-obligation consultation with one of our directors.
Bart Orr Derek Robertson Colin Yuha
4817-51 Avenue, Camrose Phone 780-672-2121 RECORDED OBITUARY LINE: 780-679-2400 www.burgarfuneralhome.com
Serving your community for 110 years
Virtual meetings keep history alive
By Lori Larsen
The Camrose Branch of the Alberta Genealogy Society continues to keep the hands of history ticking every third Wednesday of the month, from 6 until 8 p.m. through Zoom meetings.
“We miss face-to-face meetings, but we figure this is going to continue for at least a few more months,” noted Camrose Genealogy Branch co-president Janine Carroll. “When the weather is better and when the guidelines change to allow it, we’ll try some out-of-doors meetings where we can distance.”
Aside from the monthly meetings where members share ideas, the Branch also has two Special Interest Groups (SIGs) that include: Writing Family History which runs every Monday morning at 10 a.m. via Zoom; and Organizing your Research, which is in the midst of a time change to run every first Wednesday at 10 a.m. via Zoom, with the next meeting scheduled for Feb. 3.
“Attending the SIGs is a benefit of membership, but we are very happy to welcome nonmembers so they can see if it is a fit for them,” explained Carroll.
In this particularly challenging time in history, many groups and clubs have been forced to think outside the box, and genealogists, specifically the Camrose Branch, have found this to be a great time to explore this very interesting hobby, which is conducive to online research.
“There is so much information available online.”
The Branch is also going to be hosting an upcoming event, Why Family Historians Should Be Members of the Alberta Genealogical Society.
The event will be held through a Zoom meeting, and is open to all community members to register and attend.
“We will be talking about the benefits of membership in the AGS and what we have to offer people at our Branch level,” said Carroll.
“We are also going to roll out a peer mentorship program. We’ve always wanted to do this at the Library, but it never got out of the planning stage. What we now propose is that members of the community can book a 30-minute one-on-one session with one of our more experienced
Plan Now For Their Future Needs
You’ve worked your entire life to build your assets. Sound estate planning can ensure these hard-earned assets are passed on to your family according to your wishes, without interference. Talk to us today about developing a plan that makes sense for you and your loved ones.
Estate Planning
• Wills • Enduring Power of Attorney • Personal Directives
Estate Administration
• Legal services associated with probate of the will members to either help get them started, point them in a direction which could help them, or help them get past a brick wall.”
The mentorship program is not intended to do other’s research for them, but provide them with the assistance to get them started, and interest them in joining the Genealogy Society.
“The 30-minute sessions we offer are a one-time thing, with no obligation to join,” said Carroll.
For more information on the Camrose Genealogy Society Branch, visit the website at https://camrose genealogy.weebly.com, Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/Camrose Genealogy or email: camrose geneo@gmail.com.
Natural Appearance
Before SUPERIOR BEAUTY
“For Dentures That Really Fit You”
Financial assistance for seniors. After Call for details…
780-672-0128
Tom Borelli, DD Sam Borelli, DD
CAMROSE DENTURE CLINIC 4867-51 Street, Camrose
LICENSES and REGISTRIES
Camrose Registry Ltd. 5613-48 Avenue, Camrose Phone (780)672-1671, Fax (780)672-1982
Alberta Registry Services Corporate Services
• Vehicle Registration • Corporate Registries – Level 3 • Operator Services • File Annual Returns • Pro-Rate and Fleet Registrations • Register Trade Names/ • Out of Province Inspection Partnerships
Requests • Incorporate Companies • Learners exams Vital Statistics
Personal Property Services • Lien Searches • Register Finance Statements • Register Writs of Enforcement • Register Garage Keepers Liens • Birth/Marriages/Death Certifi cates • Marriage Licences Other Services Include • Land Title Searches • Raffl e Licences • Traffi c Fine Payments Practice social distancing, only 4 customers inside on weekdays, 2 on weekends. Road tests are now conducted by a qualifi ed Government or licensed driver examiner. To book a road test, you can go online to the Alberta road test scheduler at MyAlberta eservices.
HOURS: Mon. - Fri., 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. We accept Cash, Cheque, and Debit for payment
AUTOMOTIVE PLUMBING
Leaks Fixed Fast! – – Glen Glen n Mandrusiak Mand drusi iak ––Plumbing • Heating Gas Fitting • Hot Water Tanks
JORGENSEN Plumbing & Heating Ltd. 5503-52 Avenue Camrose, AB T4V 0X7 780-672-2604
VACUUMS
Over 30 years’ experience 5218-46 St. 780-672-5203 elautobody@hotmail.com
FLAGS
HIGH QUALITY FLAGS
780-672-3142
VACUUMS Drive one today!
780.672.1780 5011-46 St., Camrose
Please phone 780.672.3142 to get your business in this handy directory. Looking Back through the pages of The Booster
• Premier Ralph Klein visits the Bull Congress at the
CRE during his Alberta tour. • Garry Himschoot wins raf e put on by Camrose
Golf Club and Camrose Auto Dealers Association, giving him the keys to a brand new Ford Contour. • Ardis Granger was named “Nurse of the Month” by the Alberta Association of Registered Nurses. • Guardian Drugs had a Kodak ad for their new product, Kodak Gold Film, which gave a bonus 12 exposures per roll of lm. • The Spouse of the Year contest was taking place.
You could nominate your partner with a short writeup of why they deserve the title. The winner would receive the title, a candelight dinner, and overnight stay courtesy of the Norsemen Inn. 50 Years Ago This Week –from Jan. 26, 1971 edition
• To celebrate their rst anniversary, Texaco was giving away free tanks of gas to anyone who’s pump clicked off in identical even numbers (eg. $4.44). • The North Am International Race and Shrine
International North Am Race were called the world’s richest snowmobile races with prize money of up to $70,000 and were being held in
Wetaskiwin, Alberta. • Simpson Sears Camrose was holding a big 3-day pre-inventory sale. • Newly elected Camrose Toastmaster’s President
Les Brager, accepted the Camrose Club gavel from retiring president Ralph Rud. • SAAN’s Sale of Sales included dress shirts, cardigans, and jackets. Each item was under $3.49.
Alberta Rat Control rids province of these pests
By Murray Green Alberta is famously No one likes a dirty and proudly rat free, one HIGH QUALITY FLAGS rat. This year marks 70 years of Alberta’s Rat of the few jurisdictions in the world that can make that claim. It means the Long-lasting, non-fading. Our line meets and exceeds Control Program. Started in 1950, the program ensures Albertans are rats are unable to establish a permanent population within the borders. government durability safe from the environ- of the Province. If rats specifications. mental and economic are found in Alberta, destruction rats cause they are immediately (chewing through crops, dealt with through prov780-672-3142food storage and property) and the diseases they en control methods. Alberta owes its ratcarry with them (like free status not only to hantavirus). the hard work and dedication of Agriculture and Forestry’s rat control staff, but also the vigilance of farmers, municipalities and counties.
Alberta established a Rat Control Zone (RCZ)–a 29-km wide region of land running along the eastern border from Cold Lake in the north to the Montana border in the south. The seven municipalities in the zone take the most responsibility for rat control.
The Rat Control Program is a success story to a worldwide problem, a model for other provinces, states and countries facing the threat of these destructive pests.
In 2019, Alberta’s rat control team launched 230 investigations, finding and eliminating six confirmed infestations with five in the RCZ and one in an urban setting. Nine solo rats were found in urban settings–these were most likely hitchhikers who jumped off a vehicle that travelled from outside Alberta.
In 2020, they’ve conducted 411 investigations, with eight confirmed infestations with three in the RCZ and five in towns or cities. They also found 16 rat hitchhikers.
