Housing sales bounce back

By Murray Green

The Camrose residential market appears to have bounced back in 2021 despite the ongoing COVID-19 conditions.

The average sale price for residential properties in Camrose increased by 10.51 per cent in 2021, which is the biggest average sale price increase since 2007, which had a record-breaking increase of 44.33 per cent.

“The median sale price, which is a more accurate measure of the overall market change, increased 4.46 per cent in 2021, which is up from the 0.95 per cent increase reported in 2020,” said HarrisonBowker Valuation Group senior appraiser Jacobus Slabbert.

“There were a total of 406 reported residential MLS sales in the City of Camrose in 2021, which is up from the 286 sales reported in 2020, and up from the 293 sales reported in 2019,” said the Camrose appraiser.

“In fact, the 406 reported sales in 2021 is the highest number of reported residential sales in the City of Camrose since this reporting started in 2003, even surpassing the 382 sales reported in the 2014 boom,” he added.

The average sale price in 2021 quarter four was up 3.66 per cent from last quarter, and up 9.25 per cent compared to the same time last year. The rolling 12-month average increased by 2.20 per cent.

The median sale price in 2021 quarter four is up 2.46 per cent per cent from last quarter, and up 0.34 per cent compared to the same time last year. The rolling 12-month median increased marginally by 0.09 per cent.

There were 81 MLS reported residential sales in the City of Camrose in 2021 quarter four, which is 24 less sales than the previous quarter, but 19 more sales than 2020 quarter four.

There were 16 MLS reported sales in the City of Camrose over $400,000 in 2021 quarter four, which is three less than last quarter, but seven more than 2020 quarter four.

The average days on market in 2021 quarter four was 87 days, which is up 15 days from last quarter and up five days from 2020 quarter four.

In Camrose County, there was a total of 88 MLS-reported country residential and/or recreational property sales in 2021, which is 39 more sales than what was recorded in 2020. The average days on market in 2021 was 87 days, which down 29 days from 2020.

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Coal Creek Golf Resort is a unique black sand 18-hole golf course located just 30 minutes NE of Camrose and 15 minutes SE of Tofi eld. Our property offers a full clubhouse with Pro-Shop and Restaurant, tournament facility, driving range and a 75 lot RV park.

We currently have an opening for an

Office Manager/Bookkeeper

This is a year-round position with fl exible work hours, increasing during the open season May-October, and reduced hours from November-March.

Job Description

• Provide general bookkeeping services including, but not limited to, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll transactions, and account reconciliations. • Record daily sales, reconcile daily cash-outs from point-ofsale system, and perform deposits. • Prepare government remittances regarding payroll and GST; prepare ROEs as needed, and annual T4s. • Track employee hours using Makeshift and perform biweekly and monthly payroll runs. • Work closely with General Manager and Department managers and prepare up-to-date reports as requested. • Assist management team with budget preparation and tracking. • Order and manage office supplies for all departments.

Requirements

• Administrative Assistant or Accounting Technician diploma would be an asset. Previous experience may be considered. • Profi cient with Sage 50 Premium Accounting program. • Compensation will be commensurate with qualifi cations and experience. If this opportunity interests you, please submit a cover letter and resumé to info@coalcreek.ca. We appreciate all applications; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Looking for Class 1 Drivers to haul crude oil and produced water in east central Alberta. Multiple positions available. Tri-axle trailer work, minimum 3 years’ experience required. Above average wages, long term steady work. Health and dental benefits. $1500 signing bonus *some conditions apply. Contact via phone 780-385-8206 or email happysoilfield@gmail.com

FOOD &

BEVERAGE RFP

The City of Camrose is seeking proposals to lease the any one or multiple of the following spaces / services: Food Kiosk, Food Kiosk and Beverage Carts, Event Catering, and/or Restaurant

For more information and/or to receive an info sheet, contact Ryan Poole, General Manager of Community Services at rpoole@camrose.ca or stop by the Community Services Office in the Recreation Centre.

Camrose Women’s Shelter Society (CWSS) operates a 22 bed facility that offers services in support of women and children requiring emergency shelter due to domestic violence, crisis situations or homelessness. We are currently recruiting for the following position:

CASUAL CRISIS INTERVENTION WORKER (CIW)

Classifi cation: Union position under CUPE Local 1425

Salary: $21.92 per hour

Hiring Date: As soon as possible Required Qualifi cations Preference will be given to candidates with a degree or diploma in Human Services or related disciplines, and/or related experience working in a shelter or crisis oriented field. Preferred applicants have compassion and have previous work experience with clients who are victims of domestic violence, have worked with families, women’s programs or have experience with residential programs. Description Reporting to the Program Coordinator, the Casual CIW is a compassionate and understanding candidate who has professional values, with a firm understanding and knowledge of the impacts of domestic violence and homelessness on women and children. The successful candidate will be required to work various shifts, including weekends and overnights; also required to complete meal preparation, house cleaning and light maintenance on each shift. Candidates are equipped with skills used to assess crisis calls, provide referrals and advocacy, basic empowerment counseling, promote life skills, and group facilitation. Additional Required Qualifi cations Current First Aid, CPR, criminal record and child welfare checks are required to start. Our Shelter maintains a policy of Trauma Informed Practice (TIP), which means having an awareness of trauma and its impacts, including speaking, acting and existing in ways that are least likely to trigger or further harm those who have experienced trauma. A trauma informed stance means applying the “universal caution” or approaching every individual as though they have experienced trauma. The Camrose Women’s Shelter follows current Alberta Health Services COVID-19 safety protocols and will provide appropriate PPE for the candidate. Applicants will not be considered if they have travelled internationally within the past 14 days or if they present with COVID-19 related symptoms. Please forward resumé and cover letter to:

Email: programs@camrosewomenshelter.org

Fax: 780-679-4999

Mail: Box 1405, Camrose, AB T4V 1X3

We thank all who apply; however only those selected for consideration will be contacted.

WE ARE HIRING!

Junior Financial Analyst

Position Summary: Working as an integral part of the financial services team, the successful individual will provide fullcycle accounting expertise in a highly automated processing environment including, but not limited to, accounts receivable, accounts payable and financial analytics. Qualifications: • Excellent problem-solving capabilities, with a thirst for learning and continuous process improvement • Possess a strong attention to detail, ability to work in a fast-paced environment as well as excellent time management and organization skills • Currently enrolled in CPA program or desire to obtain designation, consideration will also be made for similar education such as a diploma/ certificate in business administration with a focus on accounting Requirements: • Accounts receivable functions such as rent processing, bank reconciliations and invoicing • Accounts payable functions such as review and processing of invoices, purchase order follow up, vendor communications and payment runs to ensure all payables are collated and processed in a confidential, accurate and timely manner • Assist with financial analytics on a case by case basis to help ensure accuracy and process integrity • Apply knowledge of professional accounting standards, including revenue recognition, accruals, internal controls and identifying risk factors Who We Are: The Bethany Group is a leader in creating safe and supportive work environments for our staff while fostering a culture of diversity, inclusivity, and respect. What We Do: Our mission is to provide person-centered service that builds a caring community, connects people and makes a positive difference in each person’s life through the provision of Health, Housing and Supportive Living Services. Join Us Our valuable employees are at the core of our mission, providing empathetic and compassionate care for our clients. Visit our website at www.thebethanygroup. ca/careers to see the many career opportunities available, and see why we have been one of our community’s top-rated employers for almost a century. We have numerous positions available with guaranteed hours and competitive wages. • Registered Nurses • LPNs • Health Care Aides • Accommodations Apply today for one of our full time, part time, or casual positions at resumes@bethanygrp.ca. We’d love to meet you! All positions to remain open until suitable candidates found. *The Bethany Group is committed to providing a healthy and safe environment for our residents, staff, visitors and volunteers. In order to continue to protect our staff and those we serve, all employees within The Bethany Group will be required to be fully immunized against COVID-19 as well as provide a clear Criminal Record Check.

CARING COMMUNITIES SUMMER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Camrose County is looking for seasonal employees to work May to August 2022 in the following positions: • Agriculture Services o Parks Crew Labourer o Vegetation Control Labourer o Agricultural Labourer o Weed Inspectors • Public Works o Labour Crew o Utility Crew o Data Management • West Dried Meat Lake Regional Landfill (Ferintosh) o Landfill Seasonal Staff Please see the website (www.county.camrose.ab.ca) for more information. Applications can be emailed to payroll@county.camrose.ab.ca.

Housing sales going up

Continued from page 27

In Flagstaff County, there was a total of 17 MLS reported country residential and/or recreational property sales in 2021, which is four more sales than what was recorded in 2020. The average days on the market in 2021 was 146 days, which is down 73 days from 2020.

The demand for country residential and/or recreational properties noticeably increased in 2021.

“This overall shift appears to be in part a result of the pandemic, which has forced many people to work from home and limit their travel abroad. As such, many people have decided to use their capital to either purchase a recreational property in lieu of traveling abroad, or to permanently move outside of a major urban centre, where housing is generally more affordable and typically provides more yard and livable floor space,” said Jacobus.

Know risks of vaping

By Lori Larsen

In an effort to educate people on the risks of vaping, Alberta Health Services (AHS) provides the following information.

A vape is an electronic

BIRTHS

To Tara Lynn Brady and Shawn Dupuis, of Edberg, a daughter on January 10.

To Josie-Ann and Brian Romero, of Camrose, a son on January 11. DEATHS

Mildred Ruth (nee Stephens) Stefiszyn of Deville, on January 13, at 87 years of age.

Sylvia Louise Soucy on January 16, at 86 years of age.

Margaret Koop of Tofield, on January 17, at 94 years of age.

Alice Evelyn (nee Swanlund) Lee of Edmonton, formerly of Sherwood Park, on January 18, at 84 years of age.

Robert Leo Benoit of Camrose, formerly of Pomquet, NS, on January 18, at 62 years of age.

Mildred Ludwina Leibel of Camrose, on January 19, at 86 years of age. smoking device that contains a cartridge of liquid (e-juice) or other forms of nicotine (or cannabis) that are heated into a vapour and inhaled by the user.

According to AHS, vaping can increase exposure to harmful chemicals and can lead to nicotine addiction.

The short- and longterm health effects are unknown, but recent reports are showing significant respiratory and health effects such as lung failure, seizures and even death.

As well, AHS reports that, although rare, some vaping devices may catch fire or explode, leading to burns or injuries.

Alberta Health Services recommends parents or guardians talk to teens about electronic cigarettes (vape) early, even as young as age 10, and warns parents/guardians to pay attention to an unusual attachment to a USB stick, sharpie, pen, lipstick, key fob, etc. These items may be electronic cigarettes disguised as everyday items.

To learn more about vaping, search “electronic cigarettes” at albertaquits.ca.

Camrose Women’s Shelter Society operates a 22 bed facility that offers services in support of women and children requiring emergency shelter due to domestic violence, crisis situations or homelessness. We are currently recruiting for the following position:

CHILD CARE WORKER

Classifi cation: Temporary, Part-Time, Union

Salary: $20.29/hour

Posted: January 25, 2022

Hire Date: As soon as possible

This is a temporary position commencing January 2022 to June 30, 2022. The position is 20 hours per week with occasional Wednesday evening and Saturday shifts, with the possibility of additional hours in February and March. Required Qualifi cations: Must have a minimum of Child Development Assistant certification (formerly ECD Level 1) to qualify. Description: Reporting to the Family Support Coordinator, the Child Care Worker provides support to children in Shelter through coordination and implementation of in-house and community activities, and encourages and promotes healthy parent-child interaction through example and support. Must be aware of the symptoms of child abuse. Preferred applicants plan and implement age-appropriate play and supportive programming for children. Activities may include crafts, outings, sports, exercise, games and learning opportunities. The Worker provides care and maintenance of children’s equipment, including cleaning duties. Ongoing file documentation is required. The applicant must be prepared to provide childcare for a variety of ages, have compassion, and have experience working with families. Our Shelter maintains a policy of Trauma Informed Practice. This means having an awareness of trauma and its impacts, and speaking, acting and existing in ways that are least likely to trigger or further harm those who have experienced trauma. A trauma informed stance means applying the “universal caution” or approaching every individual as though they have experienced trauma. Additional Required Qualifi cations: Current First Aid, CPR, criminal record and child welfare checks are required. The Camrose Women’s Shelter follows current Alberta Health Services COVID-19 safety protocols and will provide appropriate PPE for the candidate. Applicants will not be considered if they have travelled internationally within the past 14 days or if they present with COVID-19 related symptoms. Please submit resumé and cover letter to:

Email: family@camrosewomenshelter.org

Fax: 780-679-4999

Mailing: Box 1405, Camrose, AB T4V 1X3

We thank all who apply; however, only those selected for consideration will be contacted.

BUSINESS KEEPS BUILDING AT HAUSER HOME HARDWARE WE’RE HIRING!

Delivery Truck Driver

We’ve expanded our delivery fleet. We need an experienced delivery driver, minimum Class 3. Air certification is required. Capable of heavy lifting and excellence in customer service is a must. If you have at least 3 years’ commercial driving history and a clean driver abstract, you may be right for us and us for you. We take all COVID-19 precautions seriously, are highly safety-conscious and offer attractive benefits package.

Benefits of working at B fi f ki

Hauser Home Hardware Building Centre

• an exciting retail work environment • competitive wages • opportunities for advancement • opportunity to learn about the thousands of products Home carries

• a clean, safe working environment • opportunity to help customers live better lives • company benefits • staff discount Apply with resumé and references to Jill… 6809-48 Avenue, Camrose Phone 780-672-8818 Fax 780-672-8809

Email jill@hhbccamrose.ca

SUPPORT.INFORM.REFER

Opportunity is calling Change a life, Ch a n g e y our ow n

We are looking for a Program Manager responsible for the operations of the Camrose and District Victim Services Society Program. We are a nonprofit organization working in partnership with the Camrose Police Services and RCMP. Our mandate is to provide support to victims of crime and tragedy. We offer a benefits plan and competitive salary. Full job description is posted at www.camrosevictimservices.ca

The perfect job is waiting for you www.camrosevictimservices.ca

Humidity levels benefit your health

By Murray Green

The ideal relative humidity level in your house or business of 45 to 55 per cent in the summer and 25 to 35 per cent in the winter can fight off sickness and even COVID-19.

If you are not achieving those levels, then improve the building’s airtightness or thermal insulation to counter infiltrations and air leakage and, in turn, ensure easier temperature control indoors.

In the winter, the air in Canada is dryer. Dryer air offers a better chance of spreading colds and other airborne viruses. A more humid environment can help reduce the spread of airborne diseases, prevent snoring, help keep your skin soft and extend the life of your furniture.

It’s very difficult to say what the perfect temperature for a home is, because it varies from one person to the next. You feel comfortable when the environmental conditions allow our bodies to maintain their normal temperature of about 37°C. If you don’t feel hot or cold, it is probably the ideal temperature.

Most people set the thermostat between 20 to 22°C, but up to 24 degrees for older people. However, lowering the temperature to 19°C will not harm a person in normal health. It could even save you money on heating bills.

You can control the temperature of the air in a house with ease.

Controlling relative humidity is harder. It is based on whether there are cold-air drafts, the number of showers and items steamed into the air during cooking or heating water, and the level of physical activity within your home or business.

The relative humidity plays a determining role in the quality of your indoor air. Health Canada recommends keeping the humidity above 30 per cent in winter and making sure it doesn’t exceed 55 per cent in summer. Ideally, it should be somewhere between those per cent values at all times.

Excessively high humidity in the home creates a favourable environment for mould and dust mites–powerful allergens and irritants that can lead to respiratory problems like asthma.

However, if the relative humidity is below 30 per cent, the air is too dry, which can cause irritation of the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Dry air is also harmful to people with skin or eye conditions.

There are many ways to control the temperature and humidity in a house. Always use your range hood and bathroom fan every day. That is why they were installed in your home.

If the humidity gets too high during the winter, you need to ensure better air circulation. To achieve this without cooling the rooms too much, you may want to use an air exchanger, such as a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy recovery ventilator (ERV).

When the air in our homes is too dry, it can allow viruses and other airborne toxins to thrive. Individuals who live in homes without adequate humidity tend to experience more sore throats, dry skin and illnesses.

If the humidity is too low, a portable humidifier or one connected to a central forced-air heating system could be an effective solution.

Alberta has a continental climate, with more sunshine than any other Canadian province. Winters are dry, sunny, and cold, though in the south, there are chinook winds which occur when warm, dry air of Pacific origin, descends over the eastern slopes of the Rockies.