Photo Contest 2024
network expands to Bawlf area
By Murray Green
At Parallel E ects Equine , we work with horses and people to create transformations and changes in human
Specifically, we work with trauma, grief, and mental health We also work with corporate teams to build skills to improve their workplace relationships and productivity We restore direction, purpose , self-wor th and conf idence. We begin a healing and self- awareness process to move forward. For more information: http s ://www.parallele ects .net/
The Treaty Land Sharing Network (TLSN) officially expanded into the western half of Treaty Six territory—also known as central Alberta on July 6. About 80 people gathered on Brenda Bohmer’s 640 acre farm near Bawlf to welcome the TLSN into the region.
The TLSN is a grassroots group of farmers, ranchers and other landholders who have come together to begin the crucial work of honouring treaties. In the spirit of sharing the land, members provide access for First Nations and Métis people to practice their way of life. Over the past three years, the Treaty Land Sharing Network has grown to include 52 locations and 37,000 acres across Treaty Four and Six in Saskatchewan.
“I remember when I first read the Western Producer article about the Treaty Land Sharing Network that started in Saskatchewan. The idea resonated with me, so when I heard there was a trial here in Alberta, I wanted to learn more about it. Fast forward to today. It feels very special for me to host this launch event for Alberta Treaty Land Sharing Network,” said Brenda Bohmer, land holder in Treaty Six territory.
Thursday, August 1
What lies below?
By Lori Larsen
On the surface, water bodies may appear to be just that, an accumulation of water on the earth’s surface, but what lies below and what lurks around is far more complicated.
Camrose, Ohaton, Edberg, Meeting Creek, Donalda, Botha, Bawlf, Kelsey, Rosalind, Daysland, Heisler, Halkirk, Strome, Forestburg, Galahad, Castor, Killam, Sedgewick, Lougheed, Coronation/Brownfield, Alliance, Hardisty, Amisk, Hughenden, Veteran, Czar, Metiskow, Cadogan, Provost (farms), Armena, Hay Lakes, New Sarepta, Round Hill, Kingman, Tofield, Ryley Holden, Bruce, Viking, Kinsella, Irma, Wainwright, New Nor way Ferintosh, Bashaw Bittern Lake, Gwynne, Stettler (farms).
Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone 780-672-3142 Fax 780-672-2518
News email: news@camrosebooster.com
Display Ads email: ads@camrosebooster.com
Classifieds Ads email: ads@camrosebooster.com Website: camrosebooster.com 4925-48 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1L7
Water biodiversity consists of a variety of plants and animals including insects, fish, reptiles, birds and mammals species and their habitats and interactions.
Water biodiversity provides a vital role in determining the availability and quality of water for management goals including water storage, flow regulation, filtering, flood and drought protection.
On August 1, join others at the Stoney Creek Centre (5320-39 Avenue) at 7 p.m. for the eighth in the series of Camrose Wildlife Stewardship Society, in
partnership with the City of Camrose, Environment Education Programs, Watershed Wonders.
Members of the Battle River Watershed Alliance will be presenting on the wonderful biodiversity found in the Battle River watershed.
For more information on the CWSS Summer pro-
gram including the Thursday evening Environmental Education Programs, contact CWSS Summer coordinator Casey Elliott by email at wildlifestewardship@camrose.ca or visit the website at camrose.ca/ en/recreation-and-leisure/ wildlife-and-greenspacestewardship.aspx
Then and Now: BRPC 75 Years
By Murray Green
The Battle River Power Coop celebrated 75 years of history during its annual general meeting on June 25 in Camrose, in front of more than 400 members.
Chairman Dan Astner welcomed the large continent of members. “It is my pleasure to welcome you to your AGM as we celebrate our 75th anniversary. This year marks a significant milestone in our journey and is an opportune moment to reflect on our past achievements, assess our present standing and chart our course for the future,” said Dan.
The Power Coop is a textbook example of what can be achieved by neighbours working with neighbours. “Seventy-five years ago, neighbours in rural Alberta came together with a shared purpose: to electrify and empower our rural communities. Their pioneering spirit laid the foundation for what would eventually become Battle River Power Coop. From humble beginnings of neighbours meeting around kitchen tables in farm homes, we have grown into a trusted provider of electricity, serving rural Albertans with dedication and integrity,” he shared.
Rural electrification in Alberta had its origins in the late 1940s, when communities outside urban centres did not have access to electricity.
“This marked the birth of rural electrification associations, a grassroots movement formed by local farmers to collectively bring electricity to their communities,” Dan added.
As they celebrated 75 years, they looked at the changes over time.
“The way electricity is generated, the way consumption is to be measured, the method of its marketing and the estimated tripling of consumption over the next couple of decades are some of the issues your board will have to address along with the shifting consumer expectations,” Dan said.
“We recognize the importance of embracing change and innovation to meet the evolving needs of our members and communities,” reasoned Dan.
A huge milestone for all the members. “As we look back on 75 years
of service, we recognize the remarkable progress we’ve made, guided by our enduring commitment to affordability, sustainability and reliability,” said chief executive officer Bill Klassen.
“As we navigate the challenges of today and the future, we remain committed to ensuring that our rural Alberta members have access to reliable and affordable energy solutions,” Bill continued.
“Through collaboration and innovation, we will continue to overcome any future challenges emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before,” Bill said.
“Together, let us honour our past, embrace the present and chart a course towards a more affordable and sustainable future,” said Bill.
The financial statement and appointment of directors were passed.
Members of the board of directors in 2023-24 were Arnold Hanson, Kevin Matthieu, Terry Peder-
son, John Winnick, Darcy Doblanko, David Thomas, James Matthew, Dan Astner, Malcolm Barr, Bruce
Carlson, Neil Fenske, Darrin Rasmuson, Leonard Blumenthal, Kaitlyn Brown and Tim Coates.
BRPC SCHOLARS
Murray Green, Camrose Booster Scholarships were presented by director Terry Pederson to students, from left, Marye Grietsie of Ponoka, Heather Lawes of Viking, Ave Jo Nordhagen of Leduc County, Ty Clark of Sedgewick and Jade Pollington of Viking.
Year end financial report
By Jackie Lovely, MLA Camrose Constituency
Our United Conservative government released Alberta’s 2023-24 year-end financial results. Thanks to our new fiscal framework, Alberta is on strong fiscal footing. I’m glad to share some key highlights from the report: for the third year in a row, our government has balanced the budget. Even better, this past year, Alberta posted a $4.3 billion surplus. This means our province has more money to spend on important priorities like health care, education and infrastructure.
In 2023-24, we also repaid $1.7 billion of debt and earned an improved credit rating from several international credit-rating agencies. As a calculated result, Alberta will be paying less money in interest to big banks outside the province and will have more to invest.
THE BRA NECESSITIES GALS FOR HOLDING UP “THE GIRLS”
YOUR UNDERGARMENT SPECIALISTS
BIG VALLEY JAMBOREE WEEKEND HOURS:
Thurs., Aug. 1, 11 am-5:30 pm; Fri., Aug. 2, 10 am-5:30 pm; Sat., Aug. 3, 10 am-5 pm; Sunday and Monday, Closed Now
BIKING TOUR
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
Canadian Birkebeiner Society organized the Biking like a Viking cycle tour for riders to enjoy the Beaver Hills Biosphere, which includes the northern area of Camrose County, July 14. Riders experienced the UNESCO-designated Beaver Hill Biosphere and Bike like a Viking in a non-timed 55 km, 100 km or 160 km ride. All three rides started and finished at the Strathcona Olympiette Centre in Sherwood Park. Riders had plenty of opportunity to experience the diverse landscape of the Beaver Hills Biosphere. In the tough Biosphere Century 160 km Ride (160 km), riders went through the diverse landscapes of the Beaver Hills Biosphere, including Miquelon Lake Park. They had riders from Grande Prairie to Calgary and Hinton to Lloydminster. They all had the opportunity to enjoy Miquelon Lake and the biosphere along the way.
One of the many reasons I decided to run for office was to focus on guaranteeing a bright future for the next generation by passing down a sizeable financial nest egg.
I’m pleased to share we grew the Heritage Fund to a record high of $22.9 billion, with $1.7 billion in annual investment earnings. In addition, we set aside another $2 billion to grow the fund further next year. Our goal is to expand the fund to between $250 billion and $400 billion by 2050, ensuring future generations can benefit from Alberta’s wealth today.
Despite our focus on saving and debt repayment, we haven’t cut back on essential services. In 202324, we provided significant funding to health care and education. This included more money for patient care, surgeries, doctor recruitment, and lab services. We also increased education funding, with more money for schools to hire teachers and for post-secondary institutions to add seats in high-demand areas like apprenticeship training. Together, these investments will ensure Albertans continue to have access to quality health care and education. An example of local investment in our constituency is the currently under construction, Blessed Carlo Acutis Catholic High School in Camrose. In response to natural disasters, in 2023-24, we provided $3 billion in disaster and emergency relief. This included $1.1 billion for wildfire relief and $1.9 billion to support farmers affected by severe drought. Our swift response shows our commitment to helping Albertans in times of need.
Our efforts stand in stark contrast to the disastrous policies of the NDP who oversaw multiple tax increases, a jobs crisis, six credit downgrades, investment flight, and 13 consecutive quarters of negative outmigration. Today, Alberta is on a very different path–a much better one.
Our government’s careful financial management and responsible governance have positioned Alberta for a prosperous future. By balancing the budget, cutting red tape, paying down the debt, growing the Heritage Fund, and investing in essential services, we have shown a clear vision for long-term success.
Alberta is stronger, and freer thanks to the work of our United Conservative government and we’re going to keep working with Albertans to ensure our province remains the best place to call home for generations to come.
With the summer season upon us, I wish you all a safe and happy summer and look forward to seeing you at the many festivals and gatherings our constituency has to offer. Our best days are still ahead.
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.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact my office. We are always here for you!
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.
SMILE COOKIES
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
Tim Hortons staff from left, Diana Cababaros, Joanna Mangoba, Ailyn Morales and Sheila Argote presented BGC Camrose (formerly Camrose and District Boys and Girls Club)
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Learn history, don’t erase it
By Damien C. Kurek, MP, Battle River-Crowfoot
History is one of the few things that unites us all. Whether you are new to Canada, came here as the country was being stitched together, or have an Indigenous history which predates modern times, we need to learn, discuss, debate and understand the events and people that made us who we are today.
Attempts to erase, rewrite, or dismiss the foundational parts of our history are a travesty and history shows it is not something which serves us, or future generations, well.
Many of us grew up seeing Heritage Minutes on television. Those 60-second videos showcased different parts of our history. I remember them being used as introductions to lessons in social studies, leading to discussions about our nation’s past and how it affects our future.
Recently, Historica Canada, the organization responsible for producing and distributing those Heritage Minutes, has quietly deleted one of their segments about Canada’s founding. Specifically, it was one featuring Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s first Prime Minister, talking with other political leaders (notably, prominent Liberal politician George Brown) about the prospect of Confederation. The clip concludes with the famous image from the Charlottetown Conference of the Fathers of Confederation.
When the news organization True North reached out to Historica Canada, a taxpayer-funded organization mandated to promote Canadian history and culture, they admitted to quietly deleting the Heritage Minutes featuring the story about our founding. They said that when it was released, we hadn’t had the “intense discussions” we have had since about the treatment of Indigenous peoples.
Canadian history is complex, and although there are many debates about aspects of it, it is an embarrassment for a governmentfunded organization to decide part of our history should no longer be discussed and promoted. They have decided the very founding of our country itself should be somehow diminished. We should be able to have honest conversations about our history and about the decision-makers and figures from our past, not hide from it.
But it is censorship when symbols of Canadian history are deleted, ironically, without debate. This has been a clear agenda of Justin Trudeau, and his cohorts in the Liberal/NDP, to follow up on his pre-2015 election promise that Canada should become a “postnational” state.
We have witnessed this in many ways in recent years, including the diminishment of the Canadian Armed Forces’ role as a beacon of national pride, the removal of statues of the Fathers of Canadian Confederation and with being told that when churches are burned down, it is an “understandable” response to past wrongs.
Deleting history, capitulating to activists with a clear political agenda, and discussions about who we are as a nation today being cancelled is wrong.
We should learn history; we should not be afraid to challenge our understanding of it and to use it as a foundation to keep building our country. It is a famous quote of Sir Winston Churchill, in a sentiment also expressed by historical figures like Santayana, Burke and Voltaire, among others: “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”
BRSD encourage students to stay active
By Murray Green
Battle
River
School Division continues to offer its hockey and soccer academy opportunities for the 2024-25 school year.
Academic programming offers student athletes an opportunity to develop their skills both on and off the field, while achieving academic success. Sport Academy is a vital part of École Charlie Killam School’s (ÉCKS) program, emphasizing the benefits of exercise, activity, mental health, all of which contribute to the BRSD education plan priority of well-being.
The hockey academy is a partnership between ÉCKS and Tim Green Hockey
Development. This program has become a cornerstone of BRSD’s commitment to combining sports and academics. Through this program, BRSD student athletes can focus on both academic achievement and individual skill development. Students participate in three on-ice and two off-ice sessions in the first semester of the school year.During the second semester at ÉCKS, students are able to be enrolled in the soccer academy. Soccer is a partnership between ÉCKS and Tom McManus. More information is available on the ÉCKS school website.
As Canadians, we can and should be proud of our history. As Canadians, we should also be able to acknowledge and learn from past wrongs. If we allow those with an agenda to delete it, we risk repeating past mistakes and losing that which so many toiled to build. Historica Canada should restore the deleted Heritage Minute and Canadians should reject any attempts to delete, diminish, or ignore our history. We owe it to past generations, ourselves, and the future to get this right.
I’d like to hear what you have to think about this. Feel free to write, email, or message about this. As your Member of Parliament, I value greatly your feedback, I’d like to know what you think about the attempts to diminish parts of our history.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column, you are encouraged to write Damien at 4945-50 Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780-608-4600, text 403-575-5625, or e-mail damien.kurek@parl.gc.ca. You can also stay up to date with Damien by following him on social media @dckurek. If you are in need of assistance regarding a federal government program, or need assistance and don’t know where to turn, feel free to reach out to MP Kurek’s office.
The Rudy and Flora Baker Scholarship in Medicine
Up to $2,900 to be Awarded Application Deadline:
Thursday, August 15, 2024
To be eligible, applicants must: Be enrolled in a Canadian Faculty of Medicine seeking an MD designation. Have graduated from Grade 12 at a high school located in the area served by the Battle River Community Foundation.
Considerations:
Strong preference to an applicant entering their first year of studies. Preference to an applicant with community service experience. Preference to an applicant considering a career in rural medicine.
An application for m is available on the Battle River Community Foundation website, www.brcf.ca by clicking on the grants link, by contacting the Battle River Community Foundation at Box 1122, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 4E7, by email at ed@brcf.ca or by telephone at 780-679-0449.
The Joni Bergstrom Endowment Fund Scholarship
$2,000 to be Awarded Application Deadline:
Thursday, August 15, 2024
To be eligible, applicants must: Be enrolled full-time in an accredited nursing program in Canada.
From Central Alberta with preference to students from the City or County of Camrose.
Considerations:
Strong preference to an applicant entering their second, third or fourth year of studies.
An application for m is available on the Battle River Community Foundation website, www.brcf.ca by clicking on the grants link, by contacting the Battle River Community Foundation at Box 1122, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 4E7, by email at ed@brcf.ca or by telephone at 780-679-0449.
planting initiative.
Grant Applications Open Deadline: August 15, 2024
The Battle River Community Foundation is now receiving applications for grants from our Community Fund and Field of Interest Funds.
Grants are made to organizations operating in east-central Alberta that are recognized as qualified donees by the Canada Revenue Agency. This includes registered charitable organizations and municipalities. Community organizations that are not registered charities may apply in partnership with a qualified donee. Forms for applications from partners must be submitted in addition to grant application forms and can be found on our website.
Organizations seeking funds must demonstrate a strong and committed volunteer board of directors, fiscal responsibility, and effective management of resources. Projects that impact the greatest number of individuals possible with a modest investment of funds are preferred. Grants are made for definite purposes and for projects covering a specific time period. In general, grants are approved for projects not met by other funding sources.
In addition to unrestricted grants available from the Community Fund, some Funds provide grants targeted to projects reflecting donors’ interests. They include Animal Welfare, Arts, Brain Injury Prevention, Education, Health and Wellness (including Mental and Emotional Health and Wellness), the Humanities, Literacy, Music, Nutrition and Food Security, Outdoor Education, Palliative Care, Preservation and Protection of the Environment, Preservation of History, Prevention of Family Violence, Services for Individuals with Special Needs, Sustainable Agriculture, Youth Athletics and Youth Projects and Programs.
There are also Funds targeted to support projects serving residents of Alliance, Armena, Camrose, Flagstaff County, Forestburg, Galahad, Hardisty, Hay Lakes, Hughenden, Irma, Killam, Lougheed, Merna, Rosalind, Sedgewick, Strome, Viking and Wetaskiwin.
The deadline for receipt of 2024 applications is 5:00 p.m., Thursday, August 15, 2024. Grants will be announced no later than December
For further information and/or an application form, please contact us Web: www.brcf ca | Email: ed@brcf ca | Phone: 780-679-0449
Tree planting initiative in Camrose
By Lori Larsen
The Camrose Green Action Committee took the word “action” to heart on Saturday, June 22 when, with the assistance of 50 volunteers from the community, they planted approximately 1,000 poplar trees near the south west corner of Camrose Drive.
The project (first of two) took root in October 2023, when members of CGAC approached City of Camrose Council seeking approval for an overall tree initiative for Camrose.
Saturday’s tree planting event, the first project of the overall intent to increase the amount of trees in Camrose, was funded by Cargill, and includes site preparation, tree purchase and watering and maintenance.
“We had about 50 people of all ages in attendance, including some Scouts and Beavers,” said CGAC member Pam Stacey. “We planted about 1,000 Okanese poplar, the type that do not produce fluff.”
The second project goal is to increase planting of boulevard and 10 new trees in parks each year, to be funded from $5,000 pledged money from the Battle River
Watershed Alliance and additional funding from Cargill Corporate Office and other fundraising sources.
The benefits of increasing tree inventory in any community is immeasurable. First and foremost trees combat climate change and clean the air by absorbing CO2 while releasing oxygen back into the air. Amazingly, an acre of mature trees will absorb the equivalent of CO2 produced by driving a vehicle for approximately 42,000 kilometres.
Trees provide cost-effective solutions to combating the adverse effects of climate change, such as extreme heat, droughts, and floods. They are one piece of infrastructure that can actually gain value over time.
Trees cool city streets and sidewalks by providing shade and releasing water vapour into the air through the leaves and when placed strategically around buildings, including your home, contribute to conserving energy. Shade from trees also slows water evaporation, reducing the need to water.
Trees provide sustenance to all kinds of ani-
mals, including humans. One apple tree can produce 15 to 20 bushels of apples annually.
Trees provide habitat for a variety of different wildlife including birds, insects, squirrels and chipmunks.
Trees improve the overall aesthetics of a community and studies have shown that the more trees a community has, the more likely residents are to get outdoors and engage not only with others but with local infrastructure and businesses.
Strategically placed trees hide unsightly views, can absorb unwelcome noise and create eye-soothing landscapes. They also absorb dust and reduce glare. Besides the obvious, trees also improve the overall mental and physical health of humans.
In Japan, Shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing” is a term used to describe being surrounded by nature. And a person does not have to be outdoors to appreciate the soothing impact of looking at trees.
One might ask, why would we not plant more trees?
Submitted Levi Doll lends a helping hand to grandfather Wayne Doll, during the June 22 tree
