December 20, 2022 Camrose Booster

Photo by Ron Pilger

Fish and Game Association donates snowshoes

By Lori Larsen

One way to stay warm while enjoying the great outdoors is to strap on a pair of snowshoes and go for a little hike on some trails.

If you don’t own a pair of snowshoes, no problem, Camrose Public Library has you covered with the Camrose Public Library’s Library of Things lending program; and now thanks to Camrose and District Fish and Game Association, they have five additional pairs of snowshoes to lend out to the community.

en days at a time.”

And the Camrose and District Fish and Game Association has just the place to go for a snowshoe adventure.

Recently, the Fish and Game Association built some trails out at Pleasure Island Camrose Fish and Game Trout Pond, located six kilometres east of Camrose just off Highway 13 on RR195.

The Fish and Game Association volunteers will be maintaining two kilometres of trails, including one around the pond, in an ef-

bers ask that anyone using the trails do so with respect and show consideration for other users.

The Camrose and District Fish and Game Association is a not-for-profit affiliate of the Alberta Fish and Game Association comprised of volunteers. The Association advocates the common interests of ethical hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

For anyone who would like to help fund the maintenance of the walking trails located at Pleasure

“Camrose Public Library was very lucky to receive a donation of five new pairs of snowshoes from the Camrose and District Fish and Game Association, said CPL director Alyssa Martin. “Camrose Public Library loans child and adult snowshoes in the winter months to anyone with a library card. You can reserve them for specific dates, and they are loaned out for sev-

fort to encourage residents to come out and enjoy being part of nature while reaping the health benefits of some physical exercise.

“The trailhead for snowshoeing starts just north of the picnic shelter,” explained Camrose and District Fish and Game Association president Glen Hand.

Fish and Game mem-

Island, donations can be made to the Camrose and District Fish and Game Association via e-transfer at camrosefishandgame@ hotmail.com For anyone who would like to support the Camrose Public Library’s Library of Things, donations can be made in person or at: https:// www.canadahelps.org/en/ dn/4560?v1=true.

STUFF AMBULANCE

Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster

On December 10, members of Camrose EMS (under the umbrella of Alberta Health Services), braved the chillier winds to accept donations for the Camrose Neighbor Aid Center, Food Bank during the annual Stuff an Ambulance event. Pictured left to right are Safeway employees, assistant manager Al Paquette, James Macki, Teresa Kuefler and Justin Sitler, handing over prepackaged food bags donated by Safeway customers to EMS members, left to right are Devon Havinga, Karissa Burnstad and Laura Rinas.

Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster

Camrose Public Library director Alyssa Martin gets a little demonstration of how the snowshoes donated by the Camrose and District Fish and Game Association fit, by Fish and Game member Alex Frank.

Holiday preferences

In the past few days, I’ve been appreciating the amazing number of ways that friends and family members are celebrating this holiday season.

Perhaps like you, I’m keenly aware of not having to accommodate lockdown measures, as we did in the past two years.

Some are doing traditional things–precious time with family and friends, special holiday food, parties, gift exchanges, Christmas music both live and recorded.

Some friends are travelling to exotic locations and spending Christmas in the tropics. Some are going to a ski or golf resort.

A Jewish friend is celebrating Hanukkah (which this year begins December 18 and ends December 26) with traditional rituals of lighting the menorah and reading blessings each evening. Her family’s three-generation celebrations will include four menorahs. Much light indeed! ***

Traditions change as families change.

One friend is–for the first time in her life – not having Christmas day with her children and now grandchildren. Her family’s gathering was last weekend. She is delighted that all her children and grandchildren could be together, no matter what the day. She’s curious how Christmas morning is going to feel without children or grandchildren.

I know people who have lost family members during the past year. They feel the loss more keenly during this season. One family, whose husband/father/grandfather died during the past year, decided to change all the family’s Christmas customs. They are going to the mountains for a few days. ***

Not everyone enjoys traditional ways of celebrating the holiday. One friend is “getting the family stuff out of the way on Christmas Eve.” Then she’s looking forward to several days alone with a stack of books and a fridge full of wonderful grazing food.

Another friend, who lives in New York and has no close family, is spending Christmas Day with a colleague. They intend to create a brand new revenue stream. She and her colleague think that will be much more fun than traditional Christmas activities! ***

I am most treasuring time with my children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. This year I get to connect with all of them–not all on the same day, but it doesn’t matter. I also intend to spend at least one entire day grazing on leftovers and reading fiction.

I’m remembering cherished moments from the past. I have fond memories of live Christmas trees too big for the space but nobody cared. I’m enjoying memories of sneaking around to keep gifts a secret, and memories of laughter and whimsy.

I’m even cherishing memories of 2 a.m. on a Christmas morning. I was wrapping gifts to be tucked under the Christmas tree before the kids woke up early on Christmas morning. Then I encountered the dreaded words, “Some assembly required.” (It’s funny now.)

Over the years, as families and circumstances have changed, I notice that I’ve changed too. There was a time when I couldn’t imagine not having a Christmas tree. I couldn’t imagine not exchanging Christmas gifts with every family member. I couldn’t imagine not spending Christmas Day with family.

Now I’ve had all three of those experiences and realize that rituals and traditions can mean whatever we want them to mean. What really matters is the essence of the tradition. We can create new ways to honour the intention of our traditions.

***

My wish for you is that whatever your holiday beliefs and traditions are, and whatever form your holiday season takes, the next week intensifies the love, joy, generosity and gratitude in your life. ***

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 one business day.

THRIFT SHOP DONATIONS

HOLIDAY SANTA

Murray Green, Camrose Booster

Porter Cave and his sister Lyra stopped at the Recreation Centre prior to the Kodiaks game to visit with Santa when he visited with the Holiday Truck.

CANE COUNTRY

Murray Green, Camrose Booster Coldwell Banker Battle River Realty agents, from left, Angeline Rolf, Steven Falk, Magda Bates and Taylor Mitchell hang 600 candy canes and treat bags from trees and bushes. Children were encouraged to stop by and grab a bag of holiday treats.

Murray Green, Camrose Booster

Camrose Neighbor Aid Center program director Jo-Anne Tweed, left, received $1,000 from Camrose and District Family Thrift Shop board member Adele Gunderson, while Merry Christmas Fund co-chair Morris Henderson received $1,000 from Thrift Shop president Horst Schreiber on December 13.

through the pages of e Booster

• A total of $19,524 was raised by Wildrose District Beavers, Scouts and Ventures from this year’s popcor n sales campaign. Proceeds will go towards field trips, craft supplies and special outings. Top district sales person was Joel Graumann of Fourth Camrose Cubs, who had popcor n sales of $1,049.

• The Camrose Kinettes Silent Santa Project received generous support from a host of local businesses and organizations. Kinette Colleen Lindholm accepted donations including $100 from Karen Davis on behalf of the staff of the Camrose Association For Community Living; Karen Glidden representing the staff at Battle River Regional Division, who collected a box of toys; $150 from the Battle River Credit Union, represented by Debbie McTavish and Nicole Gour. The staff of the Market Garden IGA showed tremendous generosity at their annual Christmas party, collecting $1,000 for the campaign.

• Mary Durand, a member of the Board of the Alberta Council on Aging, is putting finishing touches on a senior friendly infor mation guide, a directory of resources for seniors, which will be published early in the new year Durand said the idea for the directory was bor n out of comments she heard from seniors and others regarding the difficulty they have had in accessing the services they require.

• The Camrose Rotary Club hosted a jolly Christmas party for thirty-four girls and boys from Bethany Children’s Home at Gwynne. The visitors arrived by private bus at the Legion Hall, where they were received by Rotarians and their families. The program opened with a sing-song led by Rotarian Gus Mireault. Several cartoon films were shown and then Santa Claus arrived with gifts for every child and for staff members of the Home. The party ended after lunch was served.

• An area for the extension of the public parking and aircraft tie-down facilities has been leveled at the airport. This work was very kindly done by the County of Camrose. The contribution was in appreciation of the existence of the airport with paved runway and lights which came in for constant use during the war on the Bertha Ar my Worms last summer. It is another example of the splendid community spirit that exists in Camrose and District.

• Just a quick update on an item we included last week on the 3-minute Kinette Club Grocery Spree won by Marilyn McLeod of Ohaton. In her three minutes, Marilyn picked up $23.77 in meat and $80.41 in groceries for a grand total of $104.18. This was the highest total value in the history of the Kinette Shopping Spree Project. Most interested observer of the spree was husband, Bill McLeod

Winter Holiday Safety

Winter holidays are a time for families and friends to get together. But that also means a greater risk for fire. Following a few simple tips will ensure a happy and fire-safe holiday season.

HOLIDAY DECORATING

Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.

Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.

Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.

Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.

Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.

Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING

Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan.

Keep children and pets away from lit candles.

Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet. Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop. Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.

Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding.

Before Heading Out or to Bed

Blow out lit candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

! !

FACTS

More than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles. More than two of every five decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

CITY OF CAMROSE FIRE DEPARTMENT

’Tis the season for tradition

By Lori Larsen

Tradition, as defined, means an inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior and this time of year tradition is very prevalent in people’s lives.

Whether it’s because it occurs at the end of a calendar year, or because it is rooted deep in tradition, the holiday Christmas season, more often than not, is a time to reflect on a time when age old traditions are practiced and appreciated and ultimately handed down to become an important part of other’s lives.

For our family, a 37-plus year tradition occurs around the second week of December when we hunt for, put up and decorate our real Christ mas tree. When young, and perhaps a bit more ambitious, we always purchased a tree-cutting permit and headed to the mountains for a day of adventure finding that perfect tree. However, in the past 15 years or so, due mostly to tight schedules, we have settled for picking out the perfect tree from a local tree lot.

This year was no exception. What I thought to be the per fect tree was purchased, loaded, taken home, bottom cut, stand affixed, strings cut and ready for the inevitable falling of the branches. Much to my disappointment, the branches descended only slightly, revealing what I exclaimed to be the ugliest tree we had ever had.

Daughter to the rescue, and nothing a little garland, lights and a lot of decorations couldn’t fix, the tree, albeit skinny, is magical. And as I sat the other night in a darkened room, lit only by the colourful lights of the tree, I slowly looked at every ornament, remembering who gave them to us, what they represented and when in our lives they came to be. The tree was no longer ugly, it was a beautiful reminder of the tradition that provides a sense of who we are, a true sense of being, believing, belonging and benevolence.

Other Camrosians shared their own take on Christmas traditions.

Lou Henderson said, with their family, the season is all about gathering and celebrating over food and drinks. “Our favorite family Christmas tradition is our annual Christmas Eve fondue. We do an oil fondue with beef, ham, chicken, battered cheese and cauliflower. A few years ago, we added a hot stone to grill shrimp, prosciutto-wrapped asparagus

(yum) and pineapple. And of course, no fondue is complete without lots of wine.

Food is quite often a theme that marks the holidays, but more importantly brings loved ones and friends to the table.

“We started having the fondue when our three children were teenagers, and now they are 30-plus,” commented Lou. “It is just for our immediate family members. We eat and laugh and usually hear a lot of ‘Remember than time when…’.

In our busy lives, it has been such a blessing to have one 24hour period that our family always takes time to spend together. From Christmas Eve

tradition.

Ron (Pilger) said it wouldn’t be Christmas without mincemeat tarts. “My mom always made them for Christmas, and then she taught my wife Marnie to make them,” said Ron, adding that there is just something about them and how they embody the Christmas season for him.

Kirby (Fowler) still loads the family in the SUV, dogs included, on Christmas Eve and takes in a City light tour.

Murray (Green) and family (now including four grandchildren) settle in after Christmas dinner with fun family games. “We even pull out the classics, such as Monopoly and Stockticker.”

Becky’s (Bolding) longstanding family traditions include bonfires and sometimes fireworks, but most importantly singing Christmas carols. “We are pretty professional,” she laughed. “We have all the songs printed out in blue folders.”

Andrea (Uglem) can’t remember a family Christmas without National Lampoons Christmas Vacation and the hilarity that keeps Christmas real. “We also bake shortbread cookies, and this year, I am anxiously waiting for the girls (three daughters now living away from home) to come home to help.” A few years back, Andrea and family began a new Christmas tradition with the “Travelling Christmas Dinner.” Instead of one family member hosting the Christmas dinner, the show has been taken on the road –appetizers at one house, dinner at another, then dessert at Mom and Dad’s. For Jeff (Fowler), seeing his children (two daughters, now 13 and 15) still come down the stairs Christmas morning, excited about the gifts that appear under the tree from Santa will always be special. “I remember when I was a child getting up so early and waiting for our parents to get up before we could open that special gift. Even now, as a parent myself, I am still one of the first ones up in the morning.”

afternoon until after turkey dinner on Christmas Day, we just hang out together and enjoy the special love that is shared with family.”

Members of the Booster team also appreciate the importance of tradition.

For Blain (Fowler), a trip to Edmonton to the Citadel Theatre, with wife Marlene, to enjoy the melodic sounds of the Symphony has become a seasonal tradition. Blain also finds great pleasure in sitting back and taking in some classic movies, some with obvious Christmas themes–A Christmas Story and the black and white version of A Christmas Carol, but the 1942 Casablanca has a big part of his seasonal

For Brenda (Campbell), the rush of organizing both family’s dinners and bringing it all together, despite the work that comes with it, is what makes Christmas special. “It’s all about the food,” she smiled. So many families use the holidays to gather around the table to enjoy good food, good company and reminisce about good times.

Sharon (Schwartz) said she has always made sure her children have an advent calendar to symbolize the importance of the lead up to Christmas. “The calendar includes special treats, but also includes days of doing something special as a family, and days of giving to or doing something for others.”

Whatever the tradition during the holiday season, baking cookies, light tours, sleeping under the tree, reading ’Twas the Night before Christmas, going to midnight mass, lighting the menorah, meeting at a favourite restaurant, hosting dances, exchanging gifts, candies or goodies, hanging stockings or hosting a huge family dinner, be sure to soak in the true meaning. Pass on to future generations not only the act of the tradition itself, but the stories behind what has kept them going. Or, create some new traditions that can be carried on for years to come that will act as the vessel of your own heritage and history.

And remember that even though those traditions may not be perfect every time, the beauty is not in the branches, but in the memories they hold for us.

From the entire Booster team, we wish you all the happiest and most joyous Christmas and holiday season and look forward to being part of your 2023.

City hosts swimming fun on Boxing Day to help Camrose’s Food Bank

By Lori Larsen

If you are looking for something to help amuse the children during the Christmas break, take them for a dip in the pool at

the Mayer Aquatic Centre.

On December 26, from 1 until 6 p.m. the City of Camrose Mayer Aquatic Centre is hosting a “toonie” swim. Bring the family

down for a swim; and on the way into the pool be sure to fill up the mini pool with donations for the Camrose Neighbor Aid Center Food Bank.

A healthy hear t is a happy hear t.

The Camrose Crush lost two games in a row to the Lacombe Generals, sending them to second place in the North Central Hockey League.

Lacombe won 4-3 in a shootout in Camrose on December 10. The Generals led 2-1 after 20 minutes as they opened and closed the scoring in the

first period. Cole Gibson netted the Crush tally.

In the middle frame, the teams exchanged goals with Lacombe scoring on the power play and Camrose fighting back on an unassisted Dillan McComble marker.

Eric Sonneberg tied the game late in the third period to force overtime and a shootout.

Dobberthien turned away 41 of the 44

Camrose heads to

The next home game for the Crush is on January 28 against Bonnyville at 8 p.m. in the Max McLean Arena.

DynaLIFE expands

By Murray Green

DynaLIFE is expanding its internationally recognized testing facilities and community lab services in urban and rural patient service centres (PSC) and mobile collection facilities across Alberta, including the Camrose location.

This expansion of community lab services across the province entails the transition of community labs currently operating under Alberta Precision Labs (APL) to DynaLIFE. For some labs, it will mean a simple name change on the door; other areas may encompass redirecting patients to another nearby location and for some communities, it will mean brand new lab clinics opening up in their community.

The systemic change to standardize and improve the delivery of diagnostic lab services is also by a centralized online appointment booking system.

Crush notes

RJ Reed leads the Crush in points with 21. He is followed by Ryley Bennefield with 19, including 11 goals.

-

The league will take three weeks off through Christmas and New Years with action resuming on January 7.

By Murray Green

Netminder Connor

shots he faced, while Camrose reported 26 shots on goal.

Westlock for a contest be

fore the holiday break.

County doesn’t support new landfill funding

By Murray Green

Camrose County council discussed items pertaining to the Camrose Regional Solid Waste Authority (CRSWA), on December 13.

The waste authority board governs the Camrose landfill and includes three municipal partners; the City of Camrose (the managing partner), Camrose County and the Village of Bittern Lake.

Over the past number of years, the CRSWA has been dealing with a shortfall of funds in the closure and post closure reserve for the landfill. The CRSWA agreement would dissolve when the landfill closes and change to a transfer site.

According to environmental regulations, any landfill must establish and fund a reserve account to cover the future costs of the site after it is no longer used as a landfill. In 2021, the CRSWA requested a one-time cash injection of $50,000 from Camrose County to cover it’s share of the unfunded liability (The City of Camrose portion was $1,955,652 and the Village of Bittern Lake was $6,000).

During this 2022 fiscal year, the Authority made

the decision to transition the landfill to a transfer site and proceed with closure of the landfill. The decision to transition from a landfill to a transfer site accelerated the final closure of the current landfill, which resulted in the need to fund the liability of $3,000,000 in 2023.

As there are insufficient funds in the reserve account, the CRSWA approached its member municipalities requesting a cash contribution. Camrose County’s portion is $75,000.

The City of Camrose will contribute $2,917,600 and the Village of Bittern Lake has been asked to contribute $7,400. This request was discussed openly at the County council meeting and they approved the unbudgeted expenditure to come from the 2022 budget year surplus. The determining factor in this issue was that as a member of this authority Camrose County is responsible to contribute a share of these costs arising from past use of the landfill.

The second item related to the Camrose Regional Landfill on the agenda was the request for funding of the construction of the proposed transfer site build-

ing. The cost estimate provided to the County by the CRSWA for the project is $3.355 million.

“I think the cost is too high. I’d like to see it down to about $1.7 million, half the amount. They don’t need a big fancy building at a transfer site that will be open only four days a week. I’m not comfortable with that amount,” said councillor Don Simpson, County’s representative on the authority.

The County’s share of this project would be $208,000 (the City of Camrose would contribute $2,376,400, and the Village of Bittern Lake would be asked to contribute $15,600). Council discussed this request at length, and although council agrees that a transfer site is the best option moving forward, the cost of the project was deemed excessive.

The $208,000 represents a one per cent increase in property taxes to each ratepayer in Camrose County (or a 14 per cent increase in the County taxpayer funded capital projects for 2023).

Council made a decision to deny the request to approve the proposed funding for the construction of a

transfer site building and has requested the CRSWA to review the project for a change in scope or cost savings which would then be considered at a future council meeting.

“What would happen if we pull out of the landfill agreement?” asked councillor Carl Bergstrom.

He was told by administration that the County has to give a year’s notice or the authority dissolves.

The next agenda item requested council approve the 2023-24 operational budget for the Camrose Regional Landfill. The proposed budget shows a deficit of approximately $320,000 in each year (County’s share would be more than $25,000), to be funded by a cash injection from the municipal partners.

“The City of Camrose wants us to increase our share of payments. I told the city’s manager of financial services Travis Bouck that these numbers don’t make sense to me at all. We operate at three transfer stations, pay employees and staff, haul all of our garbage to West Dried Meat Lake Landfill, pick up garbage in three communities, operate recycling facilities and our entire budget is $290,000,”

said administrator Paul King.

One of the objectives of the Camrose Regional Landfill is that it be fully funded by tipping fees and not require the use of municipal tax revenue to fund landfill operations. The Landfill Authority Agreement states (section 6e) that the authority shall not incur an annual operational deficit greater than $5,000. Consequently, council denied approval of the proposed budget and sent it back for review to meet the details of the agreement.

Council discussed the tipping fees for County residents. Historically, Camrose County residents have been able to take residential waste to the City Landfill and Camrose County pays the bill. In the last year, the tipping fees have increased from $70 to $100/ tonne (July 2022) and will rise to $150/tonne (January 2023) (in 2020 the fee was $40/tonne). A minimum charge was also instituted. As a result, the monthly bills for County residential garbage have increased from $22,000 in 2020

Willow Cash

Joshua

Coy Emmy

Shelby

Ella

Shelby

In this past year

The Bethany Group has marked its 100th anniversary as an organization

As this year draws to a close, we want to extend our thanks and appreciation for this support to the entire community. A big thank you to residents and their families, churches and community organizations, staff, and the various levels of government that fund our programs.

We also extend to all our hopes, prayers, and best wishes for this season. For those of you who celebrate Christmas, a "Merry Christmas" and to all "Happy Holidays" or warm seasonal greetings. May your hearts be cheered and may you find encouragement and joy in these, the challenging days of winter. Our hopes and prayers are that you may nd the resolve and strength to rise to the challenges of the time and be able to live with purpose and in peace. May God bless you all.

Warmly, The Bethany Group Governing Board and The Bethany Group Senior Leadership

County denies new landfill funding

Continued from page 13

The expected amount for 2023 at the increased tipping fee is approximately $60,000. As a result, Camrose County council passed a motion to cease covering tipping fees for residents at the City Landfill. Council recognizes that this is a change to service and

results in an out-of-pocket cost for residents who continue to choose to use the City Landfill.

Alternatives for residents are available, which include the Kelsey Transfer Site, Kingman Transfer Site, Meeting Creek Transfer Site and the West Dried Meat Lake Regional

Landfill (see the County website for hours and locations). Residential garbage disposal is free for County residents at all those sites, and the cost to the County (paid by the ratepayers as a whole) for residents to use these services is $15/tonne, compared to $150/tonne at the City Landfill.

Council feels it is not a justifiable use of ratepayer dollars to pay the City Landfill $150/tonne when the alternatives (although admittedly inconvenient for some ratepayers) would cost one 10th of that price. As a member of the CRSWA, the City Landfill remains available to Coun-

ty ratepayers who choose to use this service; however, the user will now pay at the landfill for this service. It is important to note that the City of Camrose is diverting City waste to the West Dried Meat Lake Regional Landfill.

DANCE VIBE Murray Green,

Ballet Camrose dancers Autumn Steinke, front,

Snow,

Skinner and Annabelle Day in the back, took part in the VIBE dance event held at the downtown studio on November 26. The students learned

Council remuneration

By Lori Larsen

City of Camrose council members voted to have the draft Council Support and Remuneration Policy, as presented by administration during the December 5 Committee of the Whole meeting, brought back to Regular council meeting on December 19 for approval.

To achieve the Target Compensation Level by 2026, a combination of actual CPI (Consumer Price Index) and a Catch-up Percentage for years 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026 will be applied, with the expectation that only a CPIrelated increment would be required for years 2027 onwards in order to remain at 7/8 of the median compensation value for Councillors.

Should Council approve the Council Support and Remuneration Policy, as presented, effective January 1, 2023 the base salary for Mayor would be as follows: 2023-$68,203.10; 2024-$74,043.64; 2025$80,384.33 and for 2026$87,268.00.

The base salary for councillors would be as follows: 2023-$34,101.55; 2024-$37,021.82; 2025$40,192.16 and for 2026$43,634.00.

“The City has a general practice of targeting the median when it comes to matters of compensation, benefits and service levels,” noted City of Camrose manager Malcolm Boyd.

The current base salary for mayor is $59,794.00 and for councillors is $29,897.00.

“It has been recognized that our Council compensation has been at a level that is the lowest in the region for many years, with the current amount set at $29,897 compared to a current median of $36,803,” added Boyd. “Our closest neighbors in Camrose County are currently receiving an average of over $44,000.

“Councillors have also often pointed out the fact that, by providing a more equitable salary, we (the City) might be able to attract Councillors who would otherwise not be able to afford the significant time commitment that’s required in this role.”

The draft policy also includes rates for conference/convention/seminar/ workshop participation expenses.

For full details on the draft Council Support and Remuneration Review Policy, visit the City of Camrose website at www.camrose.ca, click on Your Government/ Agendas/2022/Committee of the Whole Council/ 2022/12/05

2022 -2

SCHEDULE

FROM THE CITY OF CAMROSE MAYOR AND

CHRISTMAS FUND

ÉCCHS drama students present Newsies

By Murray Green

The Camrose Composite Playhouse presents Newsies on Friday, January 13, 2023 and Saturday, January 14 at 7 p.m., and a matinee on Sunday, January 15, 2023 at 1:30 p.m.

Stop the presses! Please note, due to an illness, the performance dates have changed.

This high school production was originally scheduled for December, but had to be moved to the new year at the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre.

Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right!

Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, Newsies features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken (Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act) and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein (Kinky Boots). Featuring the now classic songs “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize

the Day,” and “Santa Fe,” Newsies is packed with non-stop thrills and a timeless message, perfect for the whole family and every audience.

École Camrose Composite High School is hosting their annual performance with the Camrose Composite Playhouse actors showcasing Disney’s Newsies Drama student Anika Carrier shares her viewpoints of the play.

“I play Katherine Plumber. She writes for the New York Sun and her father is mister Pulitzer. She’s a feminist. She is like, wake up to the new century, I want to write for different papers and be famous. She was stuck writing reviews on ballets and performances and was never able to do something difficult,” explained Anika.

“She heard about the strike with some newspapers and decided this is what she’s going to do, get the exclusive and write everything and become famous for this. She works with Jack a lot. And then later on, she ends up standing up to her father and ends up starting her own newspaper and becomes famous and it’s the front page for her,” she added.

“I am very sassy and outside of my generation, so she’s a lot like me, it’s

great,” laughed Anika.

“I love performing and singing dancing, acting. This is a future for me. In February, I’m going to be doing my audition for McEwan University for their theatre program,” revealed Anika.

“The show is helping people figure out how lucky they are for what they have now. The struggles that other people have to go through, it helps us understand and be empathetic for them. And just from watching this now we realize we all have a voice and are able to speak up for things. So we can usually stand up for more injustice than what most people would usually see who don’t watch this show,” Anika said.

“The highlight is the moment the characters saw themselves on the front cover, it made them realize they really do have a voice,” said the Grade 12 student.

“This is my last show at high school, and I’m hoping that I can at least leave one mark here because I received the female lead in this show. I want to be remembered for something really cool here and impress people,” Anika said.

“I was also in The Sound of Music in Grade 9.”

Submitted

The Camrose branch of the Royal Canadian Legion Comrade Pete Steinman, right, presented funds to Dale Debnam of the Merry Christmas Fund to help pay for groceries for less fortunate residents this holiday season.

NEWSIES PLAY

Murray Green, Camrose Booster École Camrose Composite High School drama students Kaitlyn Huska (as Davey), Cara Stone (as Les) and Anika Carrier (as Katherine Plumber) check the newspaper for strike and labour laws information. The play will have three shows at the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre on January 13, 14 and 15.

Johnson named to Hall of Fame

By Murray Green

Alberta

Sports

Hall of Fame awards Queen’s Plat inum Jubilee Medal Win ners for sport.

Camrose Viking Cup founder LeRoy Johnson was honoured on December 16 in Edmonton.

A new commemorative medal has been created to mark the 70th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada. The Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal will be awarded to 7,000 Albertans throughout 2022 in recognition of significant contributions to the province.

Alberta Sports Hall of Fame awarded Johnson for his work in hockey at Augustana and for launching the Viking Cup international hockey tournament.

He also wrote a book about Viking Cup International Hockey from A Small College Town Scores Big Time

“The book does an excellent job of promoting the City of Camrose and Augustana Vikings hockey. It highlights the importance of relationships and community during difficult times and how athletics, and competition can bring those with differences together. This book is an important part of Camrose history,” said Dean Prpick, Augustana Vikings Hockey Alumni Association president.

“In the book, I had to introduce Camrose. It is a story of bigness and littleness. It is a story of international hockey and various countries in the world and the story of this little town on the prairies that brought these countries together,” LeRoy said.

The Viking Cup was a world ice hockey tournament in Camrose from 1981 to 2006.

Notable NHL players to have appeared in the tournament include Dominik Hašek, Petr Klíma, Sergei Zubov, Tuukka Rask, Henrik Zetterberg, Milan Hejduk, David Krejci, Kari Lehtonen and Darius Kasparaitis.

Donnalyn Froese (Pastor of Care), Wiedrick (Mentoring Pastor), Evan Whitman (Lead

Preparing for any emergency

Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster Camrose Fire Department, comprised of four fulltime staff and approximately 30 volunteers from the community, spend every Tuesday night training, educating and preparing to face any emergency situation. On Tuesday, November 15, crews took turns training by moving hose through a crowded and dark building, using fire extinguishers and rappelling.

Rose City hosts top curlers

By Murray Green

The 2023 Canadian Open Grand Slam of Curling will be in Camrose on January 10 to 15, 2023 for a major event at the Recreation Centre.

You can start filling out the brackets, the triple knockout format has been set for the Canadian Open, kicking off the second half of the Pinty’s Grand Slam of Curling season.

The major tournament will feature 16 of the top men’s teams and 16 of the top women’s teams from around the world.

Canada’s Team Homan, winners of the HearingLife Tour Challenge and runners-up in the WFG Masters, are the top seed on the women’s side.

Team Ladouceur, Canada; Team Constantini, Italy and Team Ackland, Canada; in the women’s division will be making their Camrose debuts. Other teams include Team Tirinzoni, Switzerland; Team Einarson, Canada; Team Gim, South Korea; Team Jones, Canada; Team Lawes, Canada; Team Fujisawa, Japan; Team Scheidegger, Canada; Team Hasselborg, Sweden; Team Keiser, Switzerland; Team Wrana, Sweden; Team Jaeggi, Switzerland and Team

Peterson, United States.

Sweden’s Team Edin, who were runners-up in the BOOST National and winners of the HearingLife Tour Challenge, enter as the number one club in the men’s division.

Grand Slam of Curling top-tier debuts are Team Gosgens, Netherlands in the men’s division. Other clubs qualifying are team Dunstone, Canada; Team Retornaz, Italy; Team Gushue, Canada; Team Schwaller, Switzerland; Team Bottcher, Canada; Team Koe, Canada; Team Mouat, Scotland; Team Ramsfjell, Norway; Team Dropkin, United States; Team Carruthers, Canada; Team Whyte, Scotland; Team Epping, Canada; Team Flasch, Canada and Team Horgan, Canada.

Teams must win three games before they lose three games in order to advance to the playoffs.

The opening draw at 8 a.m. on January 10 will be Gim against Constantini, Jones verses Wrana, Einarson battling Ackland and Lawes facing Ladouceur.

“We are very excited to see the field of teams that will be coming to Camrose, it should be a great event,” said Ken Duggan, co-chair of

the event.

All 16 teams start in the A Event. Winners remain in A, while losers drop to B. Winners in B stay in B, while losers fall to C. Once in C, teams must win their remaining games in order to qualify. Any loss in C results in elimination.

Two A teams (3-0 records), three B teams (3-1 records) and three C teams (3-2 records) will compete in the quarter-finals.

The Co-op Canadian Open preliminary round consists of a modified triple knockout format where teams must win three games before they lose three games in order to qualify for the playoffs. Once teams lose three times, they are out of the tournament.

Camrose has been home to seven major curling events since the Recreation Centre was built, and this will be the second Pinty’s Grand Slam.

The Grand Slam of Curling will feature teams competing for a combined $250,000 prize purse.

Full-event, weekend and day passes plus single draw tickets are now available, visit camrosegsoc.goigniter. com to purchase yours online.

Fire chiefs received compensation increase

By Murray Green

The Regional Fire Services Fire Department submitted a letter to Camrose County senior administration and the Fire Services Committee, requesting a compensation/wage in-

crease.

“I move that Camrose County council approve the amendments to Policy 14.05 Camrose County Fire Brigade Honorariums. Honorariums have been amended to increase

the annual honorariums by $250 for each of the fire chiefs and deputy fire chiefs,” said councilor Carlene Wetthuhn.

“I met with regional chief and he requested I forward this letter to the

Me y Chri mas & Ha y New Year

From a of us at

Fire Services Committee for your review,” said Protective Services manager Mike Kuzio.

“However, a question arose; I understand it is not a large amount, but currently the fire chief receives a $1,750 honorarium per annum for the tasks they may need to complete, for administration, phone calls, etc...and each deputy chief also receives a $1,500 honorarium per annum, also for tasks that may be required of them,” Kuzio said.

The RFS is still considered a volunteer fire department. The honorariums are for taking care of paper work and administration duties.

Discussions at the administration level agreed to propose to council that consideration be given to the request by increasing the honorariums by $250, rather than switching to an hourly rate for administration activities, which administration did not recommend.

Rose Country Realty Ltd. INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED 6223-48

Bud James, Heather Ryan, Nikki Dewey, Andy Zetsen, Kim Meyer, Jennifer Shields, Trisha Muirhead, Nancy Snook, Otto Selin, Karin Vassberg. Missing from photo: Corey Jacobsen and Wendy Gra

Chamber hosts not-for-profit presentations

By Lori Larsen

Camrose and District Chamber of Commerce welcomed 11 Camrose and area not-for-profit organizations to make presentations at the monthly Chamber luncheon held on December 7 at Retro.

Camrose and District Victim Services past interm program manager Rachel Coventry presented on behalf of CDVS.

“Funded through the provincial government CDVS provides support and information to people who have been victims of trauma and crime.”

CDVS works closely with Camrose Police Service and the RCMP. Trained volunteer members provide 24 hour service, 365 days of the year.

Presenting on behalf of the ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) Society of Alberta was Camrose Walk Together for ALS co-organizer Cheryl Feth. “The ALS Society is dedicated to making each day the best possible day for people living with ALS.” Services provided include: home visits, support groups, information, referrals and equipment.

Feth said that the Camrose Walk Together for ALS over the past three years has raised more than $35,000 each year. She related personal stories of family members and good friend, Camrosian, Lori Huolt, who have

been living with ALS. Feth mentioned the Lori’s Lanyard, handmade and sold in support of ALS fundraising, are available at Safeway (Cornerstone) pharmacy and The Sweeterie.

Representing for the Bailey Theatre was Bailey Theatre Society vice-president Colleen Nelson. “The Bailey Society has over 70 volunteers. Last year our volunteers worked over 4,000 hours.” Nelson said that the past year the Bailey has seen a substantial increase in the events being held at the theatre. “We so appreciate the community support,” said Nelson. “Camrose is a community where businesses and organizations support each other.”

Changing Ways, under the Umbrella of Camrose and District Support Services, older adult Support worker Kari Cameron shared information about the programs and services offered through Changing Ways. “Changing Ways offers services for children and adults throughout the City and County of Camrose.” Cameron spoke briefly about the one year pilot program focusing on elder abuse and providing services and programs to help ensure older adults feel safe.

Downtown Camrose, manager Jennifer Filip spoke about the initiatives and services of Downtown Camrose. “Downtown

Camrose is a Business Improvement Area which she described as a geographic area within Camrose where businesses pool resources to work together, through a formal association, to improve and promote their area.”

Speaking on behalf of the Camrose and Area Grateful Grannies was delegate Agnes Hoveland. “The Grateful Grannies was established in 2010 is a group of grandmothers and grandmothers, part of a national organization of Grandmothers to Grandmothers campaign of the Stephen Lewis Foundation.”

Hoveland said that Camrose branch is connected to about 100 women in Camrose who come together with creative ideas for fundraising, including the recent Grateful Grannies Christmas Market. “For the last 12 years the Grateful Grannies have sent over $200,000 to support our sister grandmothers in Africa.”

On behalf of the Camrose and District Neighbor Aid Center, assistant program director Holly Field said, “Neighbor Aid has about six different organizations that they look after. The Food Bank is the biggest and we service all of Camrose and County of Camrose and we give away 25 hampers a day.” Other initiatives of Camrose Neighbor Aid Center include: Marthas Table,

emergency drives to Edmonton for special medical appointments, Christmas Hampers, breakfast program for six schools in Camrose and the emergency fund program for families in dire need.

Hospice Society of Camrose and District board director Diana Nelson Findlay presented an overview of the Hospice. “We have a variety of programs that support individuals and families and a number of support groups.” Some of the programs include: Mens Cooking Circle, Grief Support Walking Group, groups for parents and children and teen grief, suicide loss, Nav-Care, and palliative care support.

Ronald MacDonald House delegate Crystal Decosta reported on the continued work the organization is doing to provide a home-away-from-home for people (families) who need to travel to access medical care. “We have four houses across the province, Edmonton, Red Deer, Calgary and Medicine Hat with a total of 87 suites.” The organization provides services to about 1,200 families a year in Alberta from 275 communities. “For Camrose we serve, on average, about 15-20 families.”

Darrell Kosakewich informed attendees on the work being done by KaSAW for Impact which was established to act as a vehicle

for the sustainable conservation of soil, water, air and wildlife habitat. “Our operations are funded by IP (Intellectual Properties) royalties and donations from charities that use our technologies.”

Association for Communities Against Abuse program manager Jenny Ofrim explained, “We have been serving central Alberta for 35 years and over the last five years have established an office in Camrose.” The organization provides counselling for anybody impacted by sexual violence. “Last year we provided 172 clients with counselling. We also provide education for Kindergarten to Grade 12, post-secondary and professional education.” Ofrim added, they began offering training programs providing awareness and education on Workplace Sexual Harassment for professionals for anybody in any industry.

Camrose and District Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting and induction of board of directors will be held on February 1 at the Norsemen Inn and the “Meet Us at the Mardi Gras” (post Christmas Business Party) will be held on February 10 at the Camrose Regional Exhibition.

For more information on the Camrose and District Chamber of Commerce, visit the website at camrose chamber.ca.

Chase the Ace

ROYAL FOOD

Murray Green, Camrose Booster Members of the Camrose Royal Purple collected food to present to Camrose and District Neighbor Aid Center’s Food Bank program director Jo-Anne Tweed (centre). The Food Bank still needs food and personal items to pass on this holiday season.

Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster

The decorated and lit Christmas tree at the north end of Main Street sets the stage for a joyous holiday season.

Murray Green, Camrose Booster

Camrose Royal Purple Chase the Ace chair Irene Gartner, left, and Linda Stevenson present John Pushak with $650 for winning the 33rd raffle of Chase the Ace.

Queen Jubilee medals

By Lori Larsen

The City of Camrose played host to a large contingency of recipients of the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal, December 10.

They were congratulated and presented with their medals by Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Salama Lakhani during a ceremony held at the Jeanne & Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre.

The commemorative medals were created by the Government of Alberta to mark the 70th anniversary

of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada.

The medals were awarded to Albertans in recognition of their outstanding service.

The ceremony recognized recipients awarded the commemorative medals by the Alberta Parks and Recreation Association for their contribution to Recreation and Parks in Alberta. Award recipients, including those from the Camrose area.

Local University of Al-

berta Augustana student Kacey Yellowbird was also recognized for his work in his community of Samson Cree Nation and as an advocate for projects and programs to promote health and wellness among community members.

Jubilee medals

Submitted

Recipients of the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal were recognized during a ceremony held at the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre on December 10.

The automotive

section

of Paul scales back ’30s gangster look

By Murray Green Brian Paul of Bawlf owns a 1930 Model A Ford Coupe.

“It’s a 1930 Model A Ford. It’s on top of a ’29 Chevy Tudor frame with a Chevy 350 engine with flat top pistons and it is a performance car. The best part about it is that it has the original newspaper prints from the inside from the ’30s up to the ’70s,” said Brian.

The Ford Model A (also colloquially called the AModel Ford or the A, and A-bone among hot rodders and customizers) was the Ford Motor Company’s second market success, replacing the venerable Model T which had been produced for 18 years.

“The police took away some pieces from me when I bought it. The gear shift used to have brass knuckles on it. The car had a Tommy gun cemented in the back like gangster style. They took it because it looked too realistic,” explained Brian.

“It’s a fun ride. I first saw it in a magazine, it won a car show out east in Nova Scotia. So that’s how it caught my attention. I got hold of the guy there and we met up. It still had the Nova Scotia plate there,” he showed.

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 colors.

“I left all of the sayings and stickers on it. The

FUN FACTS

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 rearview 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.

Although ultimately successful, the development of the Model A included many problems that had to be resolved. For example, the die stamping of parts from sheet steel, which the Ford company had led to new heights of development with the Model T production system, was something Henry had always been ambivalent about; it had brought success, but he felt that it was not the best choice for durability.

He was determined that the Model A would rely more on drop forgings than the Model T, but his ideas to improve the DFM of forging did not prove practical.

GANGSTER LOOK

hood ornament has a bomb, I’m looking to change that style. In the war they added circles or teeth on them. I’m looking to do something like that,” added Brian.

“I didn’t really do a lot of modifications to it. I’m not a mechanic myself so I hired other people that knew what they were doing and we got it done together. She’s a beaut. I put in a different carburetor,” Brian continued.

By February 4, 1929, one million Model A’s had been sold and by July 24, two million.

“It’s got the airbag suspension at the back. I think I’m done changing things for now. After I purchased it, I got three offers from people to buy it from me when I was on the way home with a trailer. People were offering me whatever I paid for plus 10 per cent,” he shared.

“When I stopped at the gas station people would just crowd around it. It’s such a unique piece you don’t see a lot of them

around like this,” said Brian.

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.

“It is neat, the back windows come out.”

In March 1930, Model A sales hit three million, and there were nine body styles available.

Murray Green, Camrose Booster

Brian Paul wanted to keep some of the gangster features on this 1930 Ford coupe, but scaled it back to suit the police authorities. It draws attention to the history of North American life in that time period.

County proposes three and a half per cent tax increase

By Murray Green

At the regular council meeting on December 13, Teresa Gratrix, Corporate Services manager presented the 2023 operating and capital budgets for council’s approval.

“I move that Camrose County council approves the 2023 Operating Interim Budget with a total operat-

ing revenue of $21,694,437 and total operating expenses of $36,858,573 and a total estimated Tax Levy (operating) of $15,164,136,” said councillor Tina Sroka.

Administration’s goal for the 2023 budget was to maintain a high level of municipal service to our ratepayers, given the current social and economic

climate, based on Council’s strategic direction and priority based budgeting principles.

At the budget meetings, department managers recommended to the budget committee several changes or alternatives to services delivery and identified areas where efficiencies could be implemented.

Funding requests received from external organizations and community groups by the County, throughout 2022, were also reviewed by the budget committee during the budget meetings.

During March 2023 administration will prepare the final budget for council approval following the release of the final 2022 assessment data and the inclusion of any adjustments to provincial requisitions for Alberta School Foundation.

Passing of an interim operations budget will allow operations to continue for the portion of the year up until the final budget has been passed by council.

New services or initiatives included in the 2023 budget were expenditures related to economic development initiatives.

Budget stressors affecting Camrose County in 2023 will be the police requisition increase of $213,760 to $644,352, fuel increase estimated at $263,550 across all cost centres, utilities increase estimated at $82,000 across all cost centers, chemical increase of $20,000 and increased benefit costs for staff.

“That Camrose County council approve the 2023 Capital Budget total capital and project expenses at $7,342,353 to be funded by internal (grants, debentures or reserves) of $6,029,153 and a total capital levy of $1,313,200,” said councillor Doug Lyseng.

The Camrose County interim budget presented by administration and reviewed by council, has a proposed three and a half per cent increase in the property tax rate.

Starbucks robbery

By Lori Larsen

On December 9 at approximately 8:45 p.m. a lone male suspect wearing a mask entered the Starbucks in Camrose brandishing a handgun to staff and demanded money from the cash register. The male then exited the store with a quantity of money.

The male suspect is described as 5’10”–6’ feet tall, thin and wearing a gray winter coat with a hoodie underneath, white disposable mask and black gloves.

Report crime in your neighbourhood

Police educate public on impaired driving

By Lori Larsen

For more than the past decade, the objective of law enforcement agencies across the country has been on educating the public on the risks of impaired driving and subsequently lowering the statistics of death and injury occurring as a result of impaired driving.

“The primary goal is to

ensure safe roads for everyone,” said Camrose Police Service Constable Matt Rolfe. “This time of year is especially crucial. Around the holidays there are more people travelling and there is a higher likelihood of people consuming alcohol. Couple that with inclement weather and poor road conditions, the risk of motor vehicle collisions can rise.”

By keeping the public informed and by conducting checkstops the police are making every effort to reduce that risk and ultimately ensure all users of Alberta roadways are kept safer.

“On December 1, 2020 the Alberta Government introduced the Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) under the Traffic Safety Act,” explained Rolfe. “It applies to drivers when law enforcement has reasonable grounds to believe the following exists.”

Continued on page 33

May

Educating on impaired driving

Continued from page 32

• Within two hours after ceasing to operate a motor vehicle, the driver had a blood drug concen tration that is equal to or exceeds any blood drug concentration for the drug that is prescribed by regulation under the Criminal Code (Canada).

• Within two hours after ceasing to operate a motor vehicle, the driver had a blood alcohol con centration and a blood drug concentration that is equal to or exceeds the blood alcohol concentra tion and the blood drug concentration for the drug that is prescribed by regulation under the Criminal Code (Canada) for instances where alco hol and that drug are combined.

• Knowing a demand had been made, the driver failed or refused, without a reasonable excuse, to comply with a demand made under the Criminal Code (Canada).

“It’s just not worth the risk,” said Rolfe, of driving while impaired. “It’s not only very dangerous but can be very costly and can result in licence suspension, vehicle seizure and fines and indirect costs such as loss of income or employment and increased insurance rates.

Recognizing that there will be a lot of people who will be consuming alcohol and or drugs over the holiday season Rolfe strongly suggested some of the following to ensure roadways are safe for all users.

• Have a designated driver who has not consumed alcohol or drugs drive.

• Use one of the taxi services available in Camrose.

• Consider staying the night.

• Telephone a friend or family member to come pick you up.

• Where and when possible use public transportation.

• Opt for walking, but only if your ability to do so safely is not impaired and you are prepared for the weather conditions.

• Always know your limit and stay within it.

“Impaired driving is always something that can be prevented,” said Rolfe.

“The police can’t be everywhere at once, so we also rely on citizens to report suspected impaired driving.

Telephone 911 immediately and safely. Provide the 911 operator with the location and description and license

the vehicle.”

Rolfe said the best advice the police can offer any time with regards to drinking and driving, is just don’t.

“Just avoid consuming alcohol or drugs entirely if you intend on operating any motor vehicle. Never drive impaired and never get into a vehicle with someone you suspect is impaired. Everybody deserves to get home safely.”

Ask the CHIEF A

Question:

When Santa enters a house surreptitiously, does he face any legal jeopardy?

Answer:

Technically, there is no forced entry, as well as an implied consent for the jolly fella to “come on in” with cookies and milk.

Coupled with the difficulty of tracking him down to lay charges, as well as the likelihood of witnesses not co-operating, you can see that this is not an open and shut case.

That said, rest assured members of the Camrose Police Service will be out on patrol, 24/7 over the holidays to help keep everyone safe.

On behalf of our members, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year…and remember to plan ahead if you are drinking. Please don’t drink and drive.

Have a question for the Chief? Email it to The Camrose Booster at news@camrosebooster.com

Dean LaGrange Chief of Police Camrose Police Ser vice

Hope, perspective during the holidays

By Damien C. Kurek, MP, Battle River-Crowfoot

The story of Jesus’s birth reminds us of the hope, peace, and joy which can restore our faith amid even the most difficult of circumstances. This year, this message is even more important as many face challenges.

Canada’s economic and inflationary situation has left a lot of folks struggling financially; the illegal invasion of Ukraine has brought war closer to home for the first time in many of our lifetimes; the famine in many places; political division about any number of subjects; and instability around the world have all been significant challenges this past year.

Yet in the midst of these challenges, the message of hope still rings true. We have persevered throughout our history as a nation because we stood together, driving a path forward toward a better tomorrow. Crises of different varieties, from war to political division to recession have come and gone, but Canada and its people have persevered. The story of Christmas and the legacy of faith in Canada’s story is significant and lays a strong foundation for our nation’s future.

As your Member of Parliament, I have seen firsthand the generosity and charitable nature of those in east-central Alberta. I rose in the House of Commons a few weeks ago to address the need for anyone who can, to support local food banks or other charitable initiatives that aim to help the most vulnerable among us.

This is more important as many folks are feeling the effects of our economic challenges, and in many cases are unable to be as generous as in years past. I would encourage anyone who can to donate even the smallest amount. For someone less fortunate, down the street or across the world, it can mean the difference between having a Merry Christmas or going hungry.

Regardless of where someone is at, whether they enter the holidays with high prospects or they are facing challenges, it is the story of Jesus’ birth and resurrection that provides the hope needed in the midst of every circumstance. In the Gospel of John, Chapter 14, verse 27, Jesus says: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” Christmas is the perfect occasion to be reminded that there is hope.

And finally, I pass along my best Christmas wishes to those who face challenging circumstances around Christmas, like the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces who won’t be with their families due to deployment, as well as our front-line workers whose work doesn’t stop, and those who have faced loss and may be alone over the holidays.

From Danielle, my boys, and myself, and on behalf of the Parliament of Canada and all the people of Battle River—Crowfoot, I wish you and your loved ones a merry Christmas and blessings in the new year.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column, you are encouraged to write Damien at 4945-50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780-608-4600, text 403-575-5625, or email damien. kurek@parl.gc.ca. You can also stay up to date with Damien by following him on social media @dckurek

a federal

Kurek’s

Royal

Murray

Camrose Booster

Royal LePage Rose

Jennifer Schields,

Wendy Graff, agent Otto Selin,

Nancy

and son Sebastian Snook collected food for the Camrose Neighbor Aid Center’s Food Bank so everyone

food for the holidays.

Murray Green, Camrose Booster

Royal LePage Rose Country Realty real estate agent Karin Vassberg, second from left, launched a food bank drive in front of her home with assistance from her colleague real estate agents, from left, Otto Selin, Kim Meyer, Andy Zetsen, Jennifer Schields, relative Randy Vassberg and Nancy Snook. Avenlee Vassberg and Sebastian Snook are holding signs. Community members were encouraged to drop off items for the food bank.

From Bah humbug to fa-la-la

I have a confession to make. So far this Christmas season, I have been feeling a bit more Bah Humbug than Fa-la-la. I even looked up the dictionary description of Bah Humbug and it is “curmudgeonly displeasure,” which is maybe an exaggeration of my feelings.

Christmas songs proclaim this to be the annual time when we must feel sunny and joyous. Lyrics say, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year. It’s the happiest season of all.” If I’m telling the truth, the older I get, the more that preparing for Christmas feels (prepare to gasp in shock) like a chore. It is a lot of work to complete the decorating, shopping, baking, wrapping, Christmas letters, and shop for a feast. I’ve spoken with moms in the last few weeks who have lost long-time pets, and a woman who recently lost her mother, who was her best friend, to cancer. For a lot of people, this can be a sad time of year.

An ongoing health problem has left me feeling less than ho-ho-ho and I resolved to do something about it. First, I started playing Christmas carols. All the time. I even found a radio station that plays non-stop Christmas. I have tried to wrap up my shopping so that I have more time to relax. I have hummed Christmas songs loudly while out and about, which has sometimes startled other shoppers when I come around a corner. I have volunteered my time to help others. We have made donations to help others. Still, no real Fa-la-la.

I hashed it out with a friend who expressed that I am not alone in feeling this way. She suggested that in the last two years due to Covid, parents were less busy without all of the kid activities. This is the first year that people have returned to activities, and now are maybe running out of time to relax and truly get into the spirit of the season. She suggested going to shows like the Nutcracker, Christmas plays, Disney on Ice, or driving around at night looking at Christmas decorations to get more into the spirit.

At home as I pondered this, my eyes spied a sign in my kitchen in bright letters that proclaims “Jesus is the reason for the season.” The Christmas story is such a story of hope, and can encourage us to treat each person we encounter with God’s love.

I was shopping one day and ran into a mom that I know. We stopped and chatted for several minutes, then discovered that we were both there to find the same item of clothing, and even the same size. I was looking for my son and she was looking for her nephew. We both started looking at opposite ends of the rack while we kept visiting. Then she found something that she thought her nephew would like–which also happened to be perfect for my son, with the sport he is passionate about on the front. We looked for a second one together with no luck. Without hesitating for even a second, she handed the clothing to me. She said that son trumps nephew and she had until Boxing Day, when she would be seeing him, to find something else.

I was floored. I don’t know that I have ever experienced something that was so completely the essence of the Christmas spirit before. Giving when it is easier not to, and putting someone before yourself–that is Christmas. I left that store feeling so humbled by this mom’s kindness in the midst of such a busy season.

The next day, our family attended my youngest son’s elementary Christmas concert. I went to both the afternoon and evening shows just so that I could see him perform twice. I felt such Christmas spirit in that room, with so many children dressed their best, trying their hardest, and proudly showing off what they had learned. At the evening show, I smiled so hard that I could feel my eye twinkling, if such a thing is possible.

Merry Christmas from my home to yours–may you have more Fa-la-la days than not this holiday season!

Murray Green, Camrose Booster Santa hitched a ride with the Holiday Truck when it visited the Recreation Centre before a Kodiaks game. Raven Kading and her brother Rapheal told the big fellow what they wanted for Christmas.

Powered by The Camrose Booster

ed

CAMROSE

Tormod Arthur “Art” Reiten

September 20, 1943 ~ December 12, 2022

Art Reiten was born on September 20, 1943 in Camrose, Alberta. He grew up in Camrose and, upon completion of high school, he embarked on an epic road trip that took a couple of friends and him all the way to Costa Rica and Panama in a Volkswagen bus. A year after working for the Alberta Forest Service, he enrolled at SAIT in the electronic technician program. He apprenticed under Cliff MacLeod and Hal Kjelland, both men having an impact on his professional and personal life. After completion of his apprenticeship, he worked for Campbell and Brasco. After a year of working there, Art bought the business and Reiten’s Radio and TV Centre was born. Art was known for his customer service, ensuring his customers were always well taken care of, and he was well respected within the profession. During the years that the shop was open, Art apprenticed a number of technicians.

In his youth, Art enjoyed racing stock cars and riding his motorcycles. In later years, his hobbies included fishing, camping, woodworking, chip carving, figure carving and vehicle restoration.

In 1968, Art met the love of his life, Ann, and they married in 1969, sharing 53 wonderful years together. In 1977, Art and Ann bought a piece of bare land outside of the Camrose City limits and turned that pasture into their “acreage oasis”, where they spent the rest of their married life together. He enjoyed all the yard work tasks that made the home and yard welcoming to all who came to visit.

On the acreage, Art’s love and care of animals, domestic and not quite domestic, was apparent. The farm boasted dogs, cats, rabbits, exotic chickens and ducks. His love of the animals led him to build and name special homes for some of the farm residents. He also cared for injured and the “not so smart” wild animals that came to call the acreage their home.

Travel was another enjoyment for Art. He especially enjoyed travel to visit his family and friends in Norway and Denmark, as well as visiting Ann’s family in the Netherlands.

Art was an unselfish husband, father and grandfather. He became a certified official/coach in both biathlon and ski jumping, sports in which Greta and Kristian competed. He cherished the time spent with family, especially his grandchildren Robert, Katrina and Geir. He thoroughly enjoyed picking saskatoon berries with the grandchildren, as well as teaching them other useful skills.

It has been said by many that there was nothing mechanical that he could not fix. Art was also known as a patient teacher, and there are many who have had the benefit of learning a skill or two from him.

Dad was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church for all of his 79 years, and was a man of quiet but devout faith. Throughout his cancer journey, he never lost faith that God would be with him and guide him throughout the difficult diagnosis. He was blessed to be cared for at home by Mom with the assistance of home care for most of his journey, and only spent the last few weeks under hospital care.

Art was very proud of his Scandinavian heritage and was a proud member of Sons of Norway and Torske Klubben. He was active at the Camrose Museum, the Railway Station, and the Wednesday Workers at Messiah Lutheran Church, until his health precluded his ability to join in and help at the Railway Station and at church on Wednesdays. When his health did not allow him to undertake tasks, he continued to enjoy coffee and fellowship with his friends at the church.

Art was known for his mischievous sense of humour, quick wit and his good-natured teasing – or “ribbing” as he called it –something that he was still doing right up until his passing.

Left to cherish Art’s memory are his wife Ann; children Greta (Geoff) and Kristian (Jill); and his three grandchildren. He will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace and joy with God.

A Funeral Service was held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, December 19, 2022 at Messiah Lutheran Church with Rev. Bev Swanson officiating.

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Art’s memory may be made to Messiah Lutheran Church, the Camrose Food Bank, or to a charity of one’s choice.

To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com

Antje (Ann) Verbaas (nee Poelstra)

August 6, 1936 ~ December 14, 2022

Antje was born in Winsum, Friesland, The Netherlands and immigrated to Canada in 1951 at the age of 15, along with her parents and siblings. Her early life was adventurous with trips abroad, a brief stint at modelling and her own sports car. She attended nursing college, and while working in Brockville, Ontario, met and married George Verbaas in 1967, and became mother to Wendy, Alice and John. Isaac completed the family in 1973. While busy raising her family, she continued to work, and to produce amazing works of embroidery, knitting, sewing: her fabric talents were many. After being widowed in 1989, she remarried to Harold Westendorp in 1998. She was widowed again in 2010.

In 2013, she made the courageous decision to move across the country to be closer to her grandchildren, and made a new home in Camrose, Alberta. She became an active member in her church, The Church of God in Camrose, and brought her amazing quilting talents to the Battle River Quilters’ Guild. Many were blessed to receive her works of art.

She was fiercely independent and lived on her own until the age of 84. After a short stay in care, Antje passed peacefully with her children at her side.

Antje is survived by her four children Alice Verbaas (Myron Zurawsky), John Verbaas (Lori Rees), Wendy Verbaas (Phil Hunt) and Isaac Verbaas; and her three grandchildren Ethan, Nolan and Sage Verbaas. She is also survived by her two siblings John (Jan) Poelstra (Rina) and Nelly Poelstra.

Antje is predeceased by her parents Jochem and Hipkjen Poelstra; and siblings Fred, Betty, Jane, Pieter, Shirley and Liz; and her husbands George and Harold.

Eternal thanks to the loving care she received from the staff at Rosehaven. A memorial service is being planned for the new year.

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS M FAMILY

As we reflect on the past year, we are truly grateful for the trust and confidence you have placed in us, and for the gift of your friendship. May faith and love light your heart, home and spirit during the holiday season and throughout the new year

Lloyd Paul Badry

November 13, 1937 ~ December 6, 2022

Lloyd Paul Badry of Camrose, Alberta, passed away on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at the age of 85 years.

Lloyd was born in Galahad, Alberta, to Frank and Mary Badry. He was known to joke and make people laugh, as he liked to make people happy. He was very talented and liked to carve and paint lawn ornaments and give them away as gifts. He loved hunting, fishing, being outdoors, and helping out on his sister’s family farm/ ranch. He was a hard worker and worked for AGT/Telus for 25-plus years. After that, he ran his own trenching and Bobcat business.

McTavish; and in-laws Ross Heck, Janet Zimmer and Carol Zimmer.

Donnie was predeceased by his parents George and Theresa Zimmer; granddaughter Sarah Dawn Reinhart; sister Eileen Heck; brothers Lorne and Jack Zimmer; and sister-in-law Donna Zimmer.

A Funeral Mass was held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 19, 2022, at Our Lady of the Prairies Roman Catholic Church, Daysland, AB, with Father Danial D’Souza as the celebrant.

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Don’s memory may be made to the Stollery Children’s Hospital, Canadian Blind Hockey, or Providence Place, Daysland.

To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com Phone 780-672-2121

February 16, 1961 ~ October 14, 2022

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our dear sister, mother and grandmother Vera.

Vera is survived by her son Gunnar Leiren; daughter-inlaw Jen; grandchildren Emerson and Freya; brothers Ed and Robert and families; and sisters Catherine, Sharon, Angela, Penny, Jeanne and their families; and many beloved nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Vera is now in the loving arms of her parents Leo and Jean Freindorf; and her sister Cynthia Kemp.

Vera had a gift for life and a talent for making people feel welcome and part of the family. We will truly miss her joyous spirit and laughter.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

“Dance with the angels, Lynski” Love your brothers and sisters

Left to cherish his memory are his children Kevin Badry of Edmonton, Rory Badry of Edmonton, Brad (Lori) Badry of Edmonton, Lasqua Badry of Camrose, and Brandy Badry of Edmonton; and numerous grand- and great-grandchildren.

Lloyd was predeceased by his parents Frank and Mary Badry; his wife Ellen Paulsen; and siblings Phyllis Phillips, Audrey Kroetch, Marvin Badry, Victor Badry, Hildred Badry, Roger Badry, Allan Badry, and Les Badry.

A Funeral Mass was held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, from St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church, 3605-50 Street, Camrose with Father Kris Schmidt as celebrant.

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Lloyd’s memory may be made to The Open Doors or to St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church.

To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com

Phone 780-672-2121

“Dedicated service since 1906”

The Family of Einar Fossen

…would like to extend a big thank you to everyone for their kind messages of sympathy, cards, flowers and food brought to the house; for the doctors, nurses and staff of Daysland Hospital; and everyone who attended the funeral. Thanks to Bart and Burgar Funeral Home for their help, to Rev. Brian Hunter, and to the pallbearers and honourary pallbearers. Your kindness is greatly appreciated.

The Jeanne Campbell Family

…would like to thank all of their friends, neighbours and extended family for their kind words and support on Jeanne’s passing. Thank you for the donations, both monetary and floral, given in her memory. Special thanks to Pastor Gary Aiken, CityLights Church, Bart and staff of Burgar Funeral Home, and those involved with making the funeral service the nice tribute it was.

Donald Mathias Zimmer

Vera Lynne Andersson (nee Freindorf)

In loving memory of Lawrence John Vioncek

January 23, 1945 ~ December 24, 2001

Dad and Papa It’s been 20 years since you were taken away In our hearts, you will always stay.

Dad, so many images come to mind Whenever we speak your name, It seems without you in our lives, things have never been the same. Dad, some days we hear your voice and turn to see your face, Yet in our turning, it seems the sound has been erased.

Oh Dad, if we could turn back time and once more hear your voice, We’d tell you that out of all dads, You’d still be our first choice. Please always know we love you and no one can take your place, Years may come and go, but your memory will never be erased.

We love you and miss you, Dad/Papa. Til we meet again.

Love always, Mary Jane, Mark, Cody, Tia Michael, Kim, Justin, Nicholas

In loving memory of Vernon Campbell who passed away on December 16, 2014

Today recalls the memory Of a loved one gone to rest, And those who think of him today

Are those who loved him best. The flowers we lay upon his grave May wither and decay, But the love for him who lives beneath Will never fade away.

Dearly missed by Dianne, Pam, Steve, Benjamin, Madalyn, Glen, Roxane, Cody and Nikolas

Lambert “Bert” Abel

May 10,

1924 ~ December 7, 2022

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Lambert Abel of Camrose, Alberta, on December 7, 2022, at the age of 98 years.

Lambert was born on his family’s homestead near Compeer, Alberta, and married Anna in 1959. They raised a family in Saskatchewan before finally settling in Camrose after his retirement.

He remained connected to his farming roots throughout his career as a grain buyer and cattle and farmland owner. Lambert was an outgoing and hard-working man, who was known for his kindness, generosity, sense of humour, and calm temperament.

He was greatly loved, and will be missed by his wife of 63 years, Anna; children Lydia (Leonard), Miriam (Ron), Tim, and Naomi; sister Regina; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Wendline and Katherine; children Esther and James; sisters Johanna, Sibbald, Mary, Katie, Rose, and Min; and brothers John, Bill, Joe, and George.

A private family Memorial Service will be held.

If you wish, donations can be made to the Camrose Food Bank, Canadian Cancer Society, or Canadian Red Cross.

To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com

Phone 780-672-2121 “Dedicated service since 1906”

Kathleen Rose Henry

March 31,

1972 ~ December 7, 2022

It is with profound sadness that the family of Kathy Henry announces her passing on December 7, 2022 at the age of 50.

Kathy is now at peace after a hardfought battle with cancer. She will always be remembered for her smile and kind heart. She was devoted to her children and helping others in any way she was able. Her greatest joys were her children and she cherished spending time with them. She also loved the fun that life had to offer and was always up for an adventure. She loved her career as a health care aid; she was loved by all those for whom she cared.

Kathy was predeceased by her father Ernie Mitchell.

Kathy will be lovingly missed by her children Tylor (Jessica) and Kalyn; her mother Betty; her sister MaryAnne; as well as numerous other family members and friends.

A Funeral Service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at Burgar Memorial Chapel, with Rev. Colin Millang officiating.

Contributions for Kalyn in memory of Kathy can be made by e-transfer to thenry@ualberta.ca

To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com

Phone 780-672-2121

“Dedicated service since 1906”

Camrose ringing in the New Year

By Lori Larsen

With the end of 2022 comes the welcoming of 2023 and Camrose is ready to celebrate with a variety of family fun events to ring in the New Year.

Camrose Kodiaks in partnership with the City of Camrose are hosting a fun New Years Afternoon and Eve event on December 31.

As well as cheering on the hometown team at the 7 p.m. game, enjoy some horse drawn sleigh rides, let the kiddos partake in a variety of fun games, marvel in the works of ice carvers, then after the Kodiaks do their own take on “carving up the ice” enjoy the music of The River Jacks.

“This will be the “Party of the Year”,” said Camrose Kodiaks general manager Boris Rybalka.

Wagon rides will take place between 2 and 4 p.m. and attendees are advised to dress according to the weather, warm clothing and footwear.

Then move inside to the arena where the young ones can enjoy a variety of games located around the concourse from 2:30 until 4:30 p.m.

At 3 p.m. take your seat in the arena to watch some fast-paced Junior A hockey as the hometown team takes on the Calgary Canucks.

At 4:30 p.m., get ready to kick up your heels and

dance around the concourse to the live music of The River Jacks.

Munchies, hot chocolate and drinks on the concourse will keep your energy level high.

A very low ticket price (children under seven are free) includes everything: wagon rides, games, the Kodiaks game and kicking it up with The River Jacks.

Tickets are available at: https://www.showpass. com/o/camrose-kodiaks/.

Kodiaks torn apart by Bulldogs

After

Goalie Robert Andreakos stopped 29 of 34 shots. Camrose recorded 35 shots on goal.

The Kodiaks are at home on New Year’s Eve on December 31 at 3 p.m., when Calgary returns for a game.

Wildcats capture silver medals at WickFest

By Murray Green

The Camrose U13 Wildcats competed in WickFest hockey tournament in Calgary on December 1 to 4 and came home with silver medals. WickFest is the dream come-to-life of sixtime Canadian Olympian Hayley Wickenheiser.

The Wildcats played close round robin games against Grande Prairie, Prince George, BC, West Central Alberta and Calgary. They finished the round robin with a 3-0-1 record and faced off against Prince George in the final.

“The girls had battled to a 1-1 tie against them earlier in the weekend and were evenly matched with the gritty and fast team from northern BC. Unfortunately, the girls came up short in the final and lost a closely contested game 2-0,” said coach Chris Zarski. “Wickfest attracts female hockey teams from across Canada and combines a traditional hockey tournament with a girl empowerment festival.”

The event attracted 25 teams in the U13 age division and was kicked off with a welcome dance par-

ty on Thursday night with over 400 players and coaches attending.

The girls danced and cheered with their teammates and opposing players–the highlight of the night was their assistant coach Lana Ilg winning the dance off competition against coaches from across western Canada.

The Wildcats team was then recognized for helping to clean up at the party and were rewarded with an opportunity to have a meet and greet with Hayley herself later in the weekend.

The entire weekend focused on empowering girls in not only hockey, but in life. The girls were able to attend workshops on athlete health and performance, mental health and stress management and were lucky enough to attend a movie premier of a new documentary that was released on the life of Hayley Wickenheiser.

The documentary highlighted the challenging road Hayley faced in her hockey career. Growing up in the 1980s, and playing boys hockey without an option to play female hockey,

exposed her to years of discrimination and misogynistic experiences.

“The girls are so grateful that they now have so many opportunities to play hockey in a safe and positive environment both at

the tournament and back home in Camrose,” said Zarski.

“While the medal around their necks was silver, all participants couldn’t help but feel that they left the festival feeling

empowered, confident and full of positive experiences that will last a lifetime,” added coach Zarski.

Other coaches on the team are Cal Zimmer, Lowell Befus, Chris Reinhart and Lana Ilg.

SILVER WILDCATS

Submitted

The Camrose U13 Wildcats recently collected silver medals at the WickFest hockey tournament in Calgary on December 1 to 4. Back row left to right, Kenzington Reinhart, Molly Zarski, Aaliyah Riopel, Kaia Nelson, Avery Webster, Scarlett Pearson, Carleigh Young, Hadley Ilg, Rayah Bergen, Danica Bjorge and Hayley Wickenheiser. Front row left to right, Alexa Lundstrom, Brynn Befus, Oakley Siemens, Karis Bjorge and Ayla Masse. Missing from picture are Peyton Zimmer and Amelia Smith. Coaches are Chris Zarski, Cal Zimmer, Lowell Befus, Chris Reinhart and Lana Ilg.

Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster Camrose Kodiaks players dig in around the back of the net during the December 3 game against the Okotoks Oilers.

By Murray Green

The Camrose Kodiaks have gone into hybernation with a seven game losing streak and are without a point this month. They dropped a 5-1 contest to the Blackfalds Bulldogs in Alberta Junior Hockey League action on December 10.

a scoreless opening period, Blackfalds netted three goals in the middle frame and added another in the third, before Ryan Sullivan garnered a power play marker to put the Kodiaks on the board. The Bulldogs added a shorthanded tally later in the period.

Contes

As usual, this

etition was stif f. Camrose

s clearly adore this cherishe d holiday season and accept the challenge of Christmas decorating in very serious fashion. Just some of the homes judged are shown on this page Several dozen proper ties were evaluated as the judging crew wound their way around Camrose in the darkness of the evening on Wednesday, De cemb er 14

The 10 0 kilometre-plus urban drive to ever y corner of the City revealed countless proper ties that inco rpor ated symb ols of keeping Christ in Christmas. Others tastefully feature decorating which shines brightly thanks to thousands of sparkling lights carefully arranged. Inflatables, again, feature prominently on a significant numb er of proper ties Marler Drive resident s continue to do a commendable job of mak ing Christmas merrier for many One thing is for sure, Camrose resident s are very good at their desire to enhance others’ enjoyment of the holiday season No matter the age, from toddler to senior citizen, it is worth going for a winter ’s night drive for a tour of our town ll done folk s, well done!

Photos by Ron Pilger Camrose Booster

Central Agencies Light- Up

t comp

resident

CH RI STMAS LI GHT- UP

Th h f Ch i t h d J i

The home of Christophe r and Jaymie Reinhart and family, 508 Park ridge Close, Camros e

When you drive into the crescent where the Reinhar t family resides, you will most cer tainly be in awe. The propert y is instantly spell-binding with the glow of over 150 di erent decorative components. The colour coordination, per fection in arranging displays, and the incorporation of symbols that re ec t keeping Christ in Chris tmas are brilliantl y achieved. The backyard is just as captivating and bright. A snow-groomed and decorated pathway starts at Santa’s mailbox and leads to a never-ending display of Chris tmas delights. Thank you to the Reinhar t family for sharing your talent for seasonal decorating with friends and neighbours.

Making Alberta affordable again Seek support for holiday grief

By Jackie Lovely, MLA Camrose Constituency

Fall session has just wrapped up at the Legislature and we have accomplished some great strides in helping Albertan’s deal with affordability.

Alberta’s economy has made a strong recovery, but many Albertans are still struggling to heat their homes as we have been blasted with winter through our area. But that is not the only struggle right now, families are having a hard time putting food on the table and these are falling under the increasing costs and record levels of inflation.

Some of the areas of relief that Albertans would see first is for seniors and families with dependent children under 18 years of age with a household income below $180,000 per year.

The target for this would see January 2023, the eligible families who have an income under $180,000 per year would receive six monthly payments of $100 for a total of $600 per dependent child under the age of 18 years old. For seniors we’d see the same income of less than $180,000 per year which would also see the same pay outs of $100 a month for six months totalling $600.

However, if you make more than the $180,000 threshold required for this benefit, those households are still eligible for other reliefs like the electricity rebate, fuel tax, family and child benefit due to inflation.

The Inflation Relief act is also going to see the indexing of AISH and income support for vulnerable Albertans which they can see $600 for six months.

The government is going to look at pausing the 13-cent fuel tax on gasoline and diesel at the pumps starting January 1 until June 30, 2023, regardless of what the price of oil is at during that time. June 2023, Albertans will continue to benefit from fuel tax relief whenever the average price of oil prices during each quarter’s determination period are above $80 per barrel, according to the current staged approach.

The expansion of electrical rebates and a natural gas price protections for homes. About 1.9 million homes, farms and businesses in the province will receive a $75 credit on their February bills followed by $25 credits in March and April of 2023.

The edibility requires are going to remain the same for the electricity rebates. The regulation amendments will be tabled in early 2023 enhancing the natural gas rebate program beyond its current March 30, 2023 end date to provide a permanent natural gas price protection for Albertans.

The Alberta Medical Association has also ratified a new agreement with the government of Alberta this week which is going to help stabilize the health system, target areas of concern and support Albertan’s health care needs.

About $252 million in targeted funding over four years will be broken into $59 million annually, and $16 million in one-time investments at communities and specialties facing recruitment and retention issues so more Albertans can access family doctors and more support for practice viability.

Our UCP government is looking forward to making more progress on working on the affordability crisis in our province, creating more jobs for Albertans, working with our healthcare professionals to support Albertans in medical need and standing up for Albertans’ rights.

Merry Christmas everyone!

These recent announcements address the many recent concerns expressed by the Camrose Constituency residents. As always, contact my office if you require my assistance. A reminder that I am a commissioner of oaths and a notary public and provide the service free for constituents.

You can contact Jackie Lovely, Camrose MLA, at Constituency Office, 104, 4870-51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1. Tel: 780-672-0000, camrose@assembly. ab.ca or at Legislature Office, 6th Floor, 9820-107 Street, Edmonton, AB T5K 1E7.

By Murray Green

Take care of yourself during the holiday season.

Covenant Health St. Mary’s Hospital Camrose psychiatry nurse Shelly Dalueg offers support for those who are grieving over the holidays.

“We’re going to go back to in-person classes here at the hospital and at the Hospice Society of Camrose,” Shelly said.

A lot of people have a hard time at Christmas.

“The sessions are free. They are two hours each. The reason that people have to come to all eight is because whatever topic we talk about one night, we build upon it the next night. To make the program work best it’s best if people commit to coming to all eight sessions. If they don’t show up, we are talking about grief and loss already, and then it ends up being a trigger maybe,” Shelly said.

The sessions are once a week for eight weeks and they will be able to have them at the hospital again.

“Some people are just wired differently and ready to do this kind of support sooner. It all depends on each person. It’s not like you have to bare your soul and that kind of stuff.

“There is homework to do. We ask things like what are some things you wish you could have done with this person, but now you can’t? We also try to avoid having two people from the same family in the group

because sometimes people will hold back and they don’t want to break down in front of someone they love in the family. We don’t want that for people. This is a safe place to kind of do a lot of that stuff for people,” added Shelly.

“We have people who have lost a spouse. Sometimes that’s to illness, to suicide or it’s to crime. Sometimes we have people who have lost a child and we have people who have lost parents. There’s quite a mix of types of grief that come to the sessions. When I have psychiatric nursing students who are learning about group therapy, this is the place to do that,” she said.

“When people have different kinds of grief, sometimes the bottom sadness is what binds them together. It’s a wonderful thing to watch. What they say to each other makes a ton more impact than what us facilitators say,” Shelly said.

“This time of the year, the commercials on TV the movies on TV, you see these intact families spending all this time together. Christmas is hard for all kinds of people who are in different kinds of crisis not just grief. So some of this stuff would be applicable to someone who has just gone through a marriage breakup or moved to Canada from afar. At this time of year the expectations are higher than at any time of the year. In our culture, when expectations aren’t met there is a sense of fail-

ure, or loneliness,” Shelly explained.

“We always tell people to make a plan. Make new memories, talk about the old ones, start a new tradition. This leads to the healing process,” Shelly added.

Other tips include change traditions, balance solitude with sociability, re-live happy moments, set time to grieve, find a creative outlet, don’t forget family and use available resources such as grief sessions.

Need facilitators

“We usually have four or five facilitators that take turns leading sessions and usually have two facilitators with each set. Right now we are kind of low on numbers,” said Shelly.

“If people want to volunteer to become a facilitator, what we do is we have two facilitators and get the person who wants to learn become an observer and take in all eight sessions. And after they are done eight sessions they can become a facilitator,” she explained.

“That takes some commitment, but it helps us see who is committed and able to do the whole program anyway. The facilitators and the participants are expected to come to all eight sessions.”

For more information on grief and bereavement sessions, email shelly.dalueg@ covenanthealth.ca or call Shelly at 780-679-6139 or 780-679-2793.

A new series of grief and bereavement sessions will be held in February.

SANTA VISIT

Murray Green, Camrose Booster

Little Wyatt Egert visited Santa for the first time with his dog Mazie, a three-year-old golden doodle. Santa welcomed pictures with pets as a fundraiser for animal shelters at Global Pet Foods on December 10.

Helpful Tips for Writing Classified Ads Which Get Results!

Be Thorough

Sure you want your ad to stand out from the rest, but don’t skimp on the sort of information that sells. The item’s condition, size, age, brand name, and colour are some of the basics readers want to know. Without them, your ad may be overlooked.

Steer Clear of Abbreviations

Okay, so you want to include all the important basics. Don’t use strange abbreviations because our ads are designed to spell all the important details. Besides, you are not paying by the line, but by the word, so there is really no need to abbreviate.

Be Honest

Exaggerating your item’s finer points may bring in a lot of responses, but a buyer who’s misled won’t appreciate it and will take his business somewhere else.

State Your Price

The cost of an item is one of the most important concerns of want ad readers. Ads showing prices are ones which get results. Giving a price also serves to “weed out” those buyers not in your price range.

Be Accessible

Including a telephone number or address puts you in touch with potential buyers. Be sure to state the hours you can be reached: a caller who can’t get through the first time often won’t call again.

Don’t hesitate to call us with any questions or problems you may have regarding advertising. Our professionally trained sales staff know the ropes, and would be happy to pass their know-how on to you. That’s why we’re here to help you get the results you deserve.

TWO KITTENS – 31 weeks old. One fluffy grey, other one tiger grey. Tame and litter trained. Great gifts for Christmas. Call 780-608-6189.

WANTED

WILL ACCEPT OLD VEHICLES, machinery, scrap iron, etc. Car batteries (will pay for). Call 780-686-5211.

HELP WANTED

HOUSEKEEPER

Part-time (More than 25 hours/week)

$16/hour or negotiable Send resumé: motel6camrose@gmail.com

MOTEL 6 CAMROSE 6216-48 Avenue, Camrose

PART TIME RESPITE WORKER – for adult male in wheelchair. Home is in Round Hill area. Valid driver’s license. Will train. Wage to be discussed. Send resumé to broblin.br@ gmail.com.

EXPERIENCED LIVE-IN CAREGIVER – for disabled female senior. Duties include medical procedures, administration and documentation of meds, personal hygiene, wheelchair transfers, physical therapy, meal preparation and companionship. Weekdays. 44 hours/week at $18 per hour. Room and board included. Please submit resumé to liveincaregiver64@gmail.com

SELF-INKING STAMPS –

Every shape, size, and colour. We deliver, right to your office. Camrose Booster Ltd., 4925-48 St., Camrose. Call us at 780-672-3142.

DSS CONSTRUCTION

Don’t put off those projects any longer! Give me a call and we can plan together. Devin Meakins, Ph. 780-853-1080

McTAVISH DELIVERIES LTD.

Local and long distance moving Storage Insured and bonded Where your business is appreciated 780- 672-5242, Camrose

THE SHIRT OFF MY BACK TAILORING in Camrose

Tues. - Fri., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thurs. Evening and Sat.: By Appointment Closed: Sun., Mon. and Holidays Please call 780- 672-4793

LaCRIA TRUCKING

Potable Water Hauling Residential, Commercial, Oilfield Gerald and Marla Steinwand, Owners PHONE 780-679-9134

NEED CHRISTMAS CLEANING DONE? Give us two ladies a call for reliable, honest service. 587-982-3341.

STORAGE SPACE – in Downtown Camrose. Secure, clean, dry, heated storage space on main floor in office building. Easy access. 124 sq. ft. $200/mo. Available immediately. Call Blain or Don at 780-672-3142, the fairest, most reasonable people in the business.

SUPER LARGE, SUPER QUIET – Second floor office in downtown Camrose! 340 sq. ft., former broadcast studio. $464.95/mo., all inclusive except communications and GST. Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, 780-672-3142 days, two of the fairest, most reasonable fellows in the business!

ROOMS FOR RENT in the Scotney and Jacqueline character homes. Both are 2.5 blocks from university in Camrose. Clean, quiet and bright. Rent is $495 - $600 monthly plus DD and includes WiFi, utilities, recycle pick-up, yard care and snow removal. Partially furnished w/ shared laundry. (Some rooms are fully furnished for international students.) This is an affordable, quality accommodation that fills quickly. (Some rooms still available.) No partiers, smokers or pets allowed. Reduced rate over the summer for students. Please call Dave P., 780678-6163.

GENEROUS OFFICE

MAIN STREET CAMROSE

193 sq. ft. on second floor. Quiet considerate neighbours. Paved occupant parking in rear. $263.93/mo., all inclusive, except communications and GST. Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson 780-672-3142 days, two of the fairest, most reasonable fellows in the business!

ESPECIALLY NICE OFFICE SUITE

Generous 794 sq. ft. suite, suitable for two, three or more staff. Includes two private offices. Located in Downtown Camrose. Main floor, easily accessible, bright, quiet. $1,668.06/mo. Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, 780-672-3142 days, two of the fairest, most reasonable fellows in the business.

Call 780-672-3142 4925-48 Street, Camrose ads@camrosebooster.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHRISTMAS GIFTS – POTTERY FOR SALE –

Monday to Saturday, 9 to 5 p.m. until Christmas. West Side Meats Country Store, 1.5 miles west of Edberg. 780-877-2140.

BITTERN LAKE-SIFTON Historical Society Volume 2 of the Bitter & Sweet History Book. $50. Call Bittern Lake Village Office 780-672-7373 or 780672-4146.

IF YOU ENJOY HOCKEY – and a good workout, the Camrose Old Timers Hockey Club is looking for players 60 and over. We play Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at Camrose arenas. $10 per ice time. Our goal is exercise, sportsmanship, fun and camaraderie. If interested, call Les at 780781-5675.

PERSONAL

LOST THAT LOVING FEELING? Find it with a personal ad in The Camrose Booster classifieds. Ph. 780-672-3142.

TO GIVE AWAY

TWO CUTE ANGORA RABBITS – to give away. About 12 weeks old. Phone 780672-9739.

Registered Dental Assistant required for a busy dental office in Camrose, AB; 4-5 days per week. No weekends. Current RDA registration is mandatory. Please include references along with your resume to rg4cdhc@telus.net

Camrose Dental Health Centre is accepting applications for a permanent Registered Dental Hygienist. This position is 4 days per week in a busy family oriented practice where gentle, thorough care and recall based treatment are our goals. No weekends.

Please forward your resumé with references in confidence to Roxanne at rg4cdhc@telus.net

EMPLOYMENT WANTED

2ND BEST PAINTER IN TOWN – 30 years’ experience for all your painting needs. Call Rick the Painter, 780-672-0391.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

WELDING SHOP – in Killam. 780-385-2342.

SERVICES

J.D.’s SMALL ENGINE REPAIR, SALES & SERVICE

– Ph. 780-672-7649.

FOR RENT

FOR RENT ADS NOW UPLOADED TO The Camrose Booster Website DAILY!

MAIN STREET RETAIL SPACE – located in high traffic, southerly area of Main Street, Camrose. Generous 1,664 sq. ft. of prime space at 4868-50 Street. Nicely decorated, air conditioned. $14.34/sq. ft./year, plus share of property taxes, utilities, waste removal and insurance, boils out to $2,812.16 all-in monthly. Available immediately. Call Blain or Don at 780-672-3142, the fairest, most reasonable people in the business.

BRAND NEW 2-BEDROOM – one bath bi-level units available. Located close to hospital and downtown. Rent plus utilities with water included. No smokers, partiers or pets. 780608-8315 to enquire.

2-BEDROOM APARTMENT – In excellent condition! Perfect for seniors. The suite has stove, fridge, dishwasher, washer and dryer, blinds and one parking stall. Heat, water, garbage pick up, Telus TV and internet included. Building has an elevator and social room. No smoking building. Call 780-678-2621 for more info or to set up a viewing.

CHOOSE YOUR NEW OFFICE

Selection of very nice street level offices in newer airconditioned building in Downtown Camrose

* Single offices from $237.51 per month

* Two consecutive 137 sq. ft. offices. Take one or take both of them. $313.16 each monthly, all in. Come and have a look!

* Quiet, considerate neighbours

* Easy access

* Lots of parking for customers

* Energized parking for tenants

* Immediate occupancy Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, 780-672-3142 days, the fairest, most reasonable fellows in the business!

MAIN STREET RETAIL

SPACE – for lease. Ground floor plus basement. Prime location on busy corner, 5001-50 Street. 2950 sq. ft., plus +/– 1500 sq. ft. in basement. Nicely decorated, a/c, new roof. $2700 plus triple net. 780-608-5222 for details. Our thanks to Fringe Benefits for being a wonderful tenant. We wish them great success.

HAY LAKES RENTAL –

Sunny and clean bi-level duplex available for rent immediately. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 5 appliances, finished basement, single car garage with plenty of parking available. Rent plus utilities. Pets may be considered. Please contact Karen 780-288-5178 for viewing.

2-BEDROOM SUITE –Recently updated, bright and spacious. Private balcony. Convenient University area location, on a purely residential street, just a few blocks from downtown amenities. Exceptionally clean, quiet, non-smoking building, local owner managed. No pets. In keeping with our existing tenant profile, we are inviting inquiries from mature, responsible adults. Snow shovelling and yard care provided free of charge. $1075 per month rent includes heat and water. $800 damage deposit. Phone 780679-7090.

DOWNTOWN RETAIL SPACE – 2400 sq. ft., self-contained, two washrooms, kitchen, lots of windows. New tenant may sublet to others. $1,995/mo. 780608-5032.

ROOMMATE WANTED –one bedroom available in half duplex. Newly painted and clean. Located just off ring road. Nearby parking. $750/mo., rent and utilities. Text 780-878-5153 for more info.

MACHINERY

SWATHER NO LONGER ‘CUTTING THE MUSTARD?’ Call The Camrose Booster Classifieds, 780-672-3142.

FOR SALE OR LEASE

HOUSE – 1100 sq. ft., 3-bdrm. bungalow, 1.5 baths; basement suite 2 bedrooms, 3/4 bath. Finance available. 780487-2786.

MISCELLANEOUS

FOUR 14” VOLKSWAGEN RIMS – 5-bolt, standard size. $15 each obo. 780-855-3023.

FULL 88 KEY ELECTRONIC PIANO – c/w stand, bench, sustain pedal, earphones. Like new condition. $400 obo. willwalk1@icloud.com.

CLASSIFIED ADS (Continued)

NEW LEXMARK E260A11A TONER CARTRIDGE – $50. 780-672-3142.

BRIAN’S GREENHOUSE U PICK FRUITS AND BERRIES FARM is taking orders for trees, shrubs and perennials until December 30. For more info contact Brian for appointments only 780-678-0053. All orders must have a down payment of 50% when ordering.

ALPACA YARN – 80/20. Four colours: white, grey, brown, caramel. $18/skein. 780-608-5032.

AUTO

DADS – LOOKING FOR A CAR WITHOUT A BACK SEAT? Count on our classifieds. We match up buyers and sellers. Phone the Camrose Booster, 780-672-3142.

BOATS, RVS and TRAILERS

LOVE CAMPING, BUT TIRED OF SHOVELLING SNOW OFF THE AWNING IN MAY? Say goodbye to your Gulfstream! Move it fast with a Camrose Booster classified. Phone 780-672-3142.

SELLING YOUR SEAWORTHY BOAT? Make a splash with an ad in the Booster classifieds! 780-672-3142.

Facility Operator – Ag Retail

Crop Management Network Inc. (CMN), is committed to the success of our farmers by selling high-quality crop inputs, being innovative in practice , providing agronomy services and suppor t , and delivering upon our commitments with best-inclass customer ser vice

We are looking to grow our team in Daysland, AB and hiring a Full Time Facilit y Operator. The Facilit y Operators at Crop Management Network Inc. deliver the highest qualit y of service to our customers, by ensuring our equipment , facilities, and warehouse are running as e iciently and safely as possible

The Facility Operators are responsible to :

• Provide regular updates/counts on inventor y levels

• Maintain equipment and conduct regular inspections on the facilit y and equipment

• Assist with the receipt of product to the warehouse

• Assist customer pick-up/internal transfers of product

• Blend dr y fer tilizer

• Operate a wheel loader / skid steer / forklift

• Ensure the facilit y is keep clean and free of hazards

• And follow Health, Safety & Environmental policies and procedures

The successful candidate will have :

• Demonstrated abilit y to work independently

• Abilit y to be resourceful and proactive when issues arise

• Must possess good interpersonal and communications skills with the abilit y to develop and maintain e ective working relationships

• Must be able to work in fast-paced environment

• Abilit y to do physical labour and other strenuous physical task

•

•

•

Senior Accoun tant

The Position

The Sr. Accountant is accountable for the day -to-day financial repor ting processes and procedures that ensures the timeliness and accuracy of bank repor ting, monthly financial and management repor ting. In addition, the Sr. Accountant is accountable for the financial and business processes to ensure compliance with accounting standards, sales tax requirements and corporate tax requirements.

This Sr. Accountant will repor t into the Camrose head office location on a regular basis however can work remotely outside of scheduled meetings.

Responsibilities

• Lead all financial repor ting processes and procedures to ensure timely and accurate financial monthly repor ting.

• Ensure all financial repor ting process and procedure documentation are reviewed regularly to ensure they are efficient and ef fective.

• Per form variance analysis on monthly financial statements to budget and investigate variances to proactively address any business and financial repor ting process issues.

• Suppor t regional and functional managers during annual budget and forecasting processes to ensure timely and accurate information for decision-making.

• Monitor and implement internal controls, processes and procedures to ensure internal policy, regulator y, and tax compliance.

• Manage external financial and non-financial audits.

• Assess internal controls, including risk assessments and review of risk areas.

• On-going cash flow planning.

Qualifications

• CPA designation or working towards accounting designation is strongly preferred.

• Degree in business and /or accounting.

• Minimum 3 years’ progressive experience within a finance depar tment with P&L and balance sheet responsibilit y.

• Strong computer literacy with advanced working skills in Microsof t Office Suite with the demonstrated abilit y to adapt to new systems and processes.

• Power BI experience an asset.

• Proficient in excel and analyzing data in excel.

• Excellent organization and time management skills; demonstrates abilit y to exercise professional judgement and gauge urgency of mat ters while managing multiple competing task and deadlines.

• Exceptional at tention to detail and accuracy

• Strong communication skills, both writ ten and verbal.

Website: www.cropmanagement.com Apply: hr@cropmanagement.com

Star t Date: ASAP

Full

Now Hiring

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

• strong work

(reliable and punctual), a team mindset and a positive at titude

• good time-management and multi-ta sking sk ills, and can work well with deadlines

• prof icienc y with technology

DEATHS

- Jeffrey Umpherville of Camrose, on December 3, at 25 years of age.

- Pastor Ralph Kassen of Camrose, on December 4, at 69 years of age.

- Adeline Hauber of Camrose, on December 6, at 81 years of age.

- Michael Olstad of Camrose, on December 6, at 77 years of age.

- Andrew “Andy” Clifford Helgeland of Ryley, at 75 years of age.

- Kathy Rose Henry of Camrose, on December 7, at 50 years of age.

- Edward William Fankhanel of Edmonton, formerly of Heisler, on Dec. 9, at 74 years of age.

- Elizabeth “Betty” Catherine Sauter of Camrose, formerly of Lethbridge, on December 11, at 79 years of age.

- Tormod Arthur “Art” Reiten of Camrose, on December 12, at 79 years of age.

- Donald “Don” Mathias Zimmer of Daysland, formerly of Spring Lake, on December 12, at 88 years of age.

BIRTHS

- To Christine Estanda and Eliezer Noay of Camrose, a daughter on December 8.

- Jeremy Allan Donaldson of Camrose, on December 11, at 41 years of age.

- Bertha Emily Sonnenberg of Camrose, on December 16, at 100 years of age.

Plea se apply with resumé to: Sharon Schwar tz, Camrose Booster Ltd. 4925-48 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1L7 Email: ads@camrosebooster.com

RV storage allowed off of Highway 21

By Murray Green

Camrose County council gave second and third reading to Bylaw 1521 to redistrict the N1/2 of NE 11-4721-W4 from A-Agricultural to RCI (Rural Commercial Industrial) at its regular meeting on December 13.

“After first reading was given, the application was forwarded directly to the neighbours, advertised on our website and in the Camrose Booster for two weeks prior to the public hearing,” said Anjah Howard, County Planning and Development manager.

Administration received three letters of objection to the proposed redistricting and a response from Alberta Transportation about the potential traffic.

“The objections relate to the site being visible from the existing acreages and concerns about the negative impact on the acreages caused by noise, traffic, light pollution and possible resale values,” said Howard.

“The increased traffic created by this development will not go past the acreages we received objections from, but will increase traffic turning onto TWP 472. There is turning lanes on Highway 21 at this intersection that start about 240 m south of the intersection and 300 metres north of the intersection. It is anticipated that all traffic in and out of the site will use TWP 472 to go to Highway 21 and that additional use of the local roads is unlikely other than from Highway 21 to the approaches into the site. There is one acreage that the traffic will pass on the north side of TWP 472,”

she reported.

The applicants did not supply a Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) with the proposed plan.

“We will need a TIA prior to development. Previously we discussed requiring the TIA as part of the rezoning process, with the understanding the applicants were proposing all of the units would be created at the same time, since their plan did not include phasing. Based on discussions with the applicant and feedback from Alberta Transportation we are comfortable requesting the Traffic Impact information at the development stage,” continued Howard.

The area is within the Growth Management Areas, which supports development along highways and where existing infrastructure is in place. The Municipal Development Plan supports protection of agriculture, and this property is rated 57.4 per cent for 55 acres and the remaining lands are rated 4.5 per cent.

The MDP does allow concessions in the growth management areas where the highest and best use of the land may not be agriculture to allow development of farmland that is rated above 40 per cent.

During the Public Hearing there was significant discussion about access from the highway which would be addressed through the TIA process.

There was also agreement from the developer that they would be willing to redistrict only a portion of the parcel of land, leaving

the lands around the existing acreage as agricultural, provided they could subdivide the lands from the remainder of the parcel.

There was also discussion about the proposed land use district and whether it would be better to be zoned Direct Control.

The developer also stated that the access closest to the acreage would be emergency access only, to provide a secondary access and that the proposed site would be fenced with a six foot fence and trees planted all the way around. The trees would be smaller than the fence, but will grow over time.

They also proposed guard dogs on site, key card access that is only available during daylight hours, security lighting that would be directed internally and be motion sensitive.

“In general there is support of the development concept, if the issues can be addressed. Administration was tasked to bring a recommendation on zoning and the area to be rezoned back to council.

This site is located on Highway 21, two miles north of the junction at Highway 13. The property is often referred to as Stokowski’s Barn.

The applicant has submitted a plan to convert the existing structure into indoor self storage and to develop approximately 800 outdoor RV storage spaces.

No new access is proposed onto Highway 21. The developer plans to use the existing approach on 472 and develop a new approach to create looped access.

ATTENTION County Residents

Ef

County Council made a budgetar y

JOIN THE ON TRACK KUNTZ &

COMPANY TEAM!

Parts Technician S er vice Shop

Extensive tech knowledge of HD diesel engines and trucks required e successful candidate will look a er the parts needs of our service shop (10 ser vice team members at present) to ensure Customer Satisfaction by Parts supplied and posted to jobs in a timely fashion. is will be accomplished by working together with our shop ser vice team and purchaser

Responsibi lities:

• Ensure that parts are procured accurately and in a timely fashion for our ser vice shop

• Ensure parts requested for job, cores, and shop supplies are monitored, and maintained

• Build and maintain strong relationships with those you work with

• Achieve success through applying On Track’s Goals, Values, and Company Mission

Quali cations:

• Knowledge of medium and/or heavy duty diesel engines and trucks

• Experience in the heavy duty truck and diesel engine industry

• Parts C ounter and/or Parts Sales ability

• Customer ser vice oriented

• Ability to communicate e ectively with others

• Ability to build and maintain relationships

• Organized, sets priorities, meets deadlines

• Make timely and accurate decisions

• Strong understanding of your duties and show attention to detail

• Pro cient in MS Word/Excel, email, internet, keyboarding

• Preferred experience with Karmak Legend and/or Fusion

Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 5:00 pm

Immediate start date will be o ered to best quali ed candidate.

Resumés welcome – to apply for either position

Email: ontrack@ontrackinc.net

Location: Junction of Hwy 21 and 13 – across from the tra c circle!

Approximately 5 minutes west of Camrose

JCT. OF HW YS 13 & 21

4 miles west of Camrose, AB

INVITATION TO TENDER FARMLAND (Camrose County)

in tipping

effective Januar y 1 at the Camrose Regional Landfill. County Residents can continue to use the Camrose Regional Landfill to dispose of garbage; however, residents will now be required to pay for the service.

County residents can dispose their household garbage at the West Dried Meat Lake Regional Landfill, or any of the County transfer sites at no charge

For more information on this, please see the article on the Camrose Solid Waste Authority in this issue of the Booster, or visit the County website, and find the article under News.

The land is located approximately 1 mile west and 1 mile north of Cornerstone Camrose and borders, on the east side, the City of Camrose boundar y. There are approximately 68 +/- cultivated acres and 46 +/- pasture acres for a total of 114 +/- arable acres. There are two steel bins (1650 bu and 3900 bu), on skids, on the property and there is no surface lease revenue.

Tenders are to be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “ROSEVIEW Tender”, to Andreassen Borth, Barristers and Solicitors, #200, 4870 – 51 Street, Camrose, Alberta T4V 1S1, on or before 12:00 noon on Januar y 17, 2023, and shall be accompanied with GST number and a cheque for $5,000 payable to Andreassen Borth in trust.

Tenders will not be opened in public. The highest, or any tender, not necessarily accepted.

Unsuccessful tenderers will be notified by mail, and their cheques returned. Successful tenderer will be obligated to complete the purchase on or before Februar y 17, 2023 and their cheque shall constitute a deposit towards the purchase price. Successful tenderer will be responsible for the cost of title insurance to facilitate timely closing. Taxes will be adjusted on closing date. Should the successful tenderer fail to complete the transaction by the closing date, their deposit will be forfeited.

For further information, or to view the property, please contact Marlene at 780-608-8434.

Lending a helping hand

By Lori Larsen

What started out as a hopeful request to cut a few pieces of wood for the Rose Club craft project, ended up being a huge act of kindness that not only saved a lot of time but made the craft project so much easier.

The Rose Club is a recreation program of Camrose Association for Community Living (CAFCL).

“Our members are all people with disabilities but they don’t have to be in other CAFCL programs to join,” said CAFCL Community Disability Service worker and Rose Club facilitator Rebecca Hohnsbein.

“We also have a few people not otherwise connected to CAFCL who are members of Rose Club.”

Rebecca explained that every year The Rose Club members vote in an Executive Committee which meets once a month, helps lead Rose Club meetings and assists as volunteers at big events like the annual Christmas Party.

“The whole group has input into decisions about what activities they want to do in the coming months, and a facilitator does the legwork to make it happen and puts out a monthly calendar of events.”

The Christmas Party, one of the biggest events of the year historically, has been held at the Norsemen

Inn and to add to the holiday decor, the Rose Club makes centerpieces to decorate the tables.

“In November, I found a wonderful idea online and the executive really liked it,” said Rebecca. “But I needed to get a supply of small pieces of wood to make boxes and it was going to take a lot of cutting.”

Admittedly, Rebecca is not a woodworker and was hoping she would be able to find a business that could cut the wood up for the project.

Hauser, the two offered to not only cut the wood but construct the actual 8x8x8 inch boxes, all 20 of them.

Once the boxes were constructed Home Hardware employee, Andrea Haugen, spray painted the boxes white.

“They just charged us for the wood, that was it. The labour and spray painting was all donated,” remarked Rebecca. “It was a tremendous load off my plate, because I honestly don’t know how successful our group would have been, trying to hammer those boxes together. I was hoping for the best but it might have been a struggle.’

The constructed boxes were then loaded into a truck, once again, with the assistance of Home Hardware staff, and taken to the Rose Club, where they were beautifully decorated by Rose Club members and then proudly displayed as the centre of attention at the tables during the Christmas party.

“I got in touch with Home Hardware, and spoke with Jodi Blouin and to my great surprise (and delight) she took interest in my project, and started asking about the design of the boxes, how many, etc.”

Along with owner Rob

The thoughtfulness of others not only made life easier but spread good will and contributed to a joyous holiday season for many.

“Home Hardware staff turned into our Christmas elves,” praised Rebecca. “I was so delighted by their helpfulness and generosity.”

Central Agencies Realty Home of the Week Investment opportunity

CHRISTMAS EDITION

Dear Santa, when you get here, could you please throw a quick load in the washer, vacuum the carpet and wash your cookie plate? Thanks!

Parents – just a friendly Christmas reminder: the term “some assembly required” is a wildly misleading statement

“Mommy, Santa should know that I don’t like Lindt chocolates, but he puts them in my stocking ever y year.” Me (unwrapping a Lindt): “Yeah, that’s really weird!”

Nothing like opening Christmas gif ts to remind you that the people you’re closest to in the world know absolutely nothing about you!

Dads on Christmas Day are just tech suppor t in pajama pants.

I had to tell my nine-year- old that he couldn’t pass gas in a box and give it to his friend for a present . On an unrelated note, I know what I’m getting my brother

If you want to know what it’s like to be middle aged, I just said, “Wow, this is really nice wrapping paper, ver y high qualit y!”

7-year- old: “Guess what a parent’s favourite holiday is.” Me: “What ?”

7-year- old: “Christmas, because Santa takes care of ever y thing and you just sit back and relax!”

Me: “It’s a huge relief, yes …”

I set up our Nativit y scene, but since Baby Jesus hasn’t arrived yet , all the wise men are just standing around, looking down at their phones.

Christmas didn’t come this fast when we were kids.

I tried to send you something cute for Christmas, but the mailman told me to get out of the mailbox and take the stamp o my butt

Thoughts and prayers to parents of kids who are right now deciding to change their minds and ask Santa for something di erent even though Santa already got the rst thing and is out of money and patience.

I never understood how the Little Drummer Boy ’s parents could just send him outside alone at night to play his drum until my daughter brought a recorder home from school.

By Lori Larsen

This newer built four-plex located in the quiet town of New Norway is a great investment opportunity with rental income that can subsidize your lifestyle and take you into retirement.

Only a 15-minute drive to all the amenities of Camrose, New Norway itself offers everything needed to live comfortably, including plenty of playgrounds and park areas, a kindergarten to Grade 12 school and a variety of businesses.

As for the units, each has beautiful modern finishing including warm laminate wood flooring, a subtle colour pallet and crisp white trim and interior doors.

Open concept living allows conversations to keep flowing from the living area to the kitchen, or you can keep an eye on children as dinner is prepared.

Plenty of cabinets, a sit-up island and a corner pantry offer great space and storage in the kitchen.

Sascha Dressler

Patio doors lead out onto the goodsized deck, great for barbecuing or enjoying the warmer weather. A main floor guest bathroom is perfect for when you are entertaining.

The lower level has two good-sized bedrooms, and a four-piece bathroom, utility room with laundry and some extra storage space.

The live-in property manager means renter’s concerns can be dealt with quickly, and currently the units are rented out at $900 a month plus utilities.

Set yourself up for retirement by investing in this four-plex located at 211 Main Street, New Norway and priced at $569,000. For a private viewing, contact Sascha Dressler at: Central Agencies Realty 4870-51 Street, Camrose 780-672-4495

Cell 780-781-8242

Kids, 3:17 p.m., Christmas af ternoon: “Okay, when’s the nex t holiday?”

It was the day af ter Christmas and all through the house, Not a creature was stirring because it was a mess! I didn’t want to clean, couldn’t look at the stove, I was still in my pajamas and my favourite robe When what to my wondering eyes should appear But an ex tra 10 pounds on my hips, thighs and rear

An old man from Camrose calls up his son in Toronto, and says, “Listen, your mother and I are getting divorced. For ty- ve years of miser y is enough.”

“Dad, what are you talking about ?” the son yells. “We can’t stand the sight of each other any longer,” he says. “I’m sick of her, and I’m sick of talking about this, so call your sister in Vancouver and let her know,” and he hangs up Now, the son is worried. So he calls up his sister

She says, “There is no way they’re getting divorced!” She calls her father immediately. “You’re not getting divorced! Don’t do it . And another thing – the t wo of us are ying home tomorrow to talk about this. Until then, don’t call a law yer, don’t le a paper, DO YOU HE AR ME?!” and she hangs up

The old man turns to his wife and says happily, “Mission accomplished! They’re both coming for Christmas and they’re paying for their own air fare!”

Submitted Rose Club finished craft project.