Sparky and CFD Fire and Life
Educator Captain Jeff Knopf take two minutes of time to install
detector battery.
Photo by Ron Pilger
New bus service to Edmonton
Published Tuesday for Controlled Distribut ion by CAMROSE BOOSTER LTD.
The UASU has been deeply involved in every phase of the project, from initiating talks with FlixBus to coordinating with key partners. They have provided both logistical support and advocacy to address students’ transportation needs. The ultimate goal is for the project to succeed, ensuring students have a low-cost, sustainable travel solution
By Adan Shaikh
Residents of Camrose will have a new way to travel to and from Edmonton, thanks to a Flixbus pilot program being introduced.
Providing complete coverage of the City of Camrose and the communities of Ohaton, Edberg, Meeting Creek Donalda, Bawlf Kelsey, Rosalind, Daysland, Heisler Strome, Forestburg, Galahad, Killam, Sedgewick , Alliance, Armena, Hay Lakes, Sout h Tof ield, Round Hill, Kingman, New Nor way, Ferintosh, Bittern Lake, and their rural routes each and every week
Circulat ion 12,263 copies weekly Hours: Mon. to Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone 780-672-3142 Fax 780-672-2518
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“The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) has been a driving force behind this project from the outset. We initiated contact with FlixBus and even travelled to Los Angeles to engage in detailed discussions. Since then, we’ve worked closely with the University of Alberta, the Augustana Students’ Association, and the City of Camrose to secure funding and promote the initiative. After the Camrose Connector service ended in 2021, Augustana students–whom the UASU represents, alongside all U of A undergraduates – have faced significant financial burdens, often paying up to $150 for a one-way cab ride to Edmonton. This has created a serious strain for students needing to travel for classes, resources, or social connections in the city. Our goal is for the pilot project to dem-
onstrate enough success for FlixBus to continue the route long-term, providing an affordable and reliable travel option. We will be meeting with FlixBus on a regular basis during the pilot project and analyzing ridership data to evaluate the route’s performance and ensure it meets student needs,” said Abdul Abbasi, UASU vice-president external.
The service is set to run every Monday and Friday starting September 27 until November 8. This offers affordable and convenient transportation for the general public. In addition to this, students of the University of Alberta Augustana Campus can travel at no charge by booking tickets using a coupon code which can be found on their UASU Perks app.
This initiative, in collaboration with Flixbus and the City of Camrose, aims to support student mobility and provide a much needed transport link for all citizens.
The City has dubbed this a “use it or lose
it” initiative. If there isn’t enough demand, the service will not be extended or made permanent. However, if enough residents take advantage of the affordable bus service, it could become a regular fixture, offering a reliable connection between Camrose and Edmonton in the long term.
According to their website, the bus can be boarded in Camrose from either Duggan Mall or from Augustana Campus Faith and Life Centre and it offers three dropoff points in Edmonton. You can choose which stop at which you would like to get off the bus. Your options are Southgate Transit Centre, University of Alberta Lister Centre or downtown Jasper Avenue.
To book a trip or to find more information, residents are encouraged to visit the Flixbus website at flixbus.ca. This service could be valuable for families and students who don’t have their own transportation to go to Edmonton.
Peewee Buffaloes remain undefeated after four games
By Murray Green
The Camrose Buffaloes are competing in the Capital District Minor Football Association 2024 season.
The bantam squad plays in the 12-side Division and have a 1-3 record this fall.
Camrose lost a tough grinding 7-6 contest to the Millwoods Grizzlies on September 21. The Buffaloes outscored the
Fort McMurray Ravens 42-22 in its victory.
Camrose also plays the Edmonton Mustangs in Millwoods on October 5 and the Grizzlies in Millwoods on October 20.
The peewee squad plays in the peewee nine-side division in the Capital District and are undefeated with a 4-0 record.
Camrose outscored the SCMFA Wolverines
33-26 on September 21 to preserve its winning streak. The Buffloes also won 56-6 over the Edmonton Chargers, beat Sherwood Park Northstars 41-14 and won 24-20 over the Stony Plain Bombers. They also play away on October 6 against the Bombers and against Sherwood Park Northstars on October 20.
On September 18, 2024, The Bethany Group was honoured to host our sta and their guests for our
Staff Appreciation Event
The Bethany Group is proud of the accomplishments, sacrifice, and dedication of our sta We believe our teams are capable, e cient, and caring in the work that they do for our communities. We recognize that our organization’s ability to flourish over the last 102 years would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our most important resource, our sta
Our mission is providing person-centred service that builds a caring community, connects people, and makes a positive di erence in each person’s life through the provision of Health, Housing, and Supportive Living Services.
For our mission-based sta awards, we accepted nominations from all sta members over the summer and, due to the volume of high quality peer nominations, we awarded three winners to the Caring Communities Award, two winners to the Innovation Award, and seven winners to the rson-Centred Care Award We want to congratulate the following individuals for winning these awards:
• Caring Communities Award Winners: Graham Yourston, Jenelle Lightning, Tina Shantz
• Innovation Award Winners: Wyatt Schofield, Tristan Tamayo
• Person-Centered Care Award Winners: Clarissa Oxenham, Jennifer Gibson, Karen Sharp, Carrie Madge, Tasha Thompson, Alyson Lavergne, Patrick Williams
These winners are compassionate, dedicated, and invaluable members of our team. We also wish to thank their coworkers who took the time to nominate their team members so they may be recognized.
The Bethany Group is very proud of the organization’s high number of long service award recipients; it demonstrates the trust and loyalty between our organization and our sta Although not everyone could attend, we are proud to congratulate the following long service award winners: Years of Service Award Recipients:
Rejeanne Matson, Jacqueline Hancock, Rena Mallo, Jenny Edwards, Shannon Holtz, Melody Notario, Ashley Brown, Kara-Marie Otway, Terene Ulrich, Debra Mandryk, Michel Freadrich, Daralene Lyle, Je rey Woolley, Jasmine Peters, Andrene Brown, Carrie Madge, Dianna Carrier, Cortni Gladue, Alicia Kearley, Daisy Montehermozo
10 Years of Service Award Recipients:
Maria Arroylo, Theresa Lowther, Camille Ayore, Ashley Clements, Eryl Ayore, Joanne Boisvert, Stuart Daniels, Judy Korpan, Samuel Rideout, Abigail Amoguis, RJ Scharer, Karen Estoesta, alerie Ayore, Amanda Lewis, Samantha Haynes, Jackie Beelby, Ekta Johar, Sara Lester, Maryann Sutley, Marilyn Araojo, Christine Soliman, Jason High, Korrine Kohlman, Victoria Klinger, Riza Dela Cruz, Laura Nielsen, Christine Elli, Dawn Tkatchuk, Ruth Fernandez, Trina Courtney, Jessica Faye, Ryan Campbell
15 Years of Service Award Recipients:
Donna Edmonton, Jacqueline Grieve, Debra Gygi, Laureana Lange, Deborah Menyes, Jenelle Spiess, Josephine Davis, Imelda Taylor, Lori Beaumont, Colleen Schmidt, Tammy Kennedy, Cindy McCruden, Tracy Pynn, Michelle Wideman, Merlinda Mendenilla, Lisa Unteriner, Delayne Lambe, Jillian Moores, Lois Wightman, Robert Auerbach
20 Years of Service Award Recipients:
e, Tammy Liang, Elizabeth Bjarnason, Ella Rose Johnson, David Vince, Angela Phillips ears of Service Award Recipients: oshell, Al Piller, Kevin Kelly ou and congratulations to these employees for their continued dedication to the e grateful for your adaptability, devotion, and steadfast commitment to helping us
we were excited to celebrate our retirees from 2023 The Bethany Group hopes these e enjoying their time with family, friends, and nature. The accomplishments of these st and while we sure miss them on site, we know they wholly deserve their retirement the joys that come with more free time
Congratulations to the retirees from 2023:
Barbara Eriksson, David Eriksson, Terry Hanson, Alison Hunter, Mary LaFrance, Joanne Bessey, Tracey Broen, Ruby Wood
our service; we wish you nothing but the best as you embark on this new chapter. it be filled with health, happiness, and cherished time with your loved ones.
oup also wishes to thank the Days Inn Norsemen, as the meal, drinks, and service
ening was fun, emotional, and we are reinvigorated with our sense of purpose and with one another Thanks to all who attended! And if you are interested in joining our please visit: www.thebethanygroup.ca/career-opportunities
Mission Based Sta Award winners
A horrible fascination
“So, what have you been doing lately?” asked a friend I see on Zoom every few weeks.
As someone at a life stage where I don’t have to be at a workplace doing specific tasks for many hours every week, I have a fair bit of flexibility about what I do when. I’m grateful for that. It’s so different from the busy years when every day seemed to have more responsibilities than there were hours to handle them.
I tried to remember what I’d been doing lately.
Well, I had a few fun events, some errands, a few commitments. But mostly? To my discomfort, I realized that for the past several weeks, most days I spent large chunks of time watching and listening to stuff about the U.S. election.
So that was the most important or useful or enjoyable thing for me to be doing?
Hmmm. ***
I’m watching and listening to reports about the U.S. election more than I’m watching and listening to reports about Canadian or Alberta politics, both of which have had shifts in the past few months. Not only that, I have some ability to influence Canadian and Alberta politics. I can vote. If I choose, I can contribute time and/or money to political parties or candidates.
Yes, the results of the U.S. election will directly or indirectly affect all of us in Canada. But the U.S. election is something over which any Canadian has absolutely no influence. We cannot make a difference.
Time for a re-think about the best uses of my time and attention.
***
So, what’s the attraction? It’s like a circus or a Greek drama.
On one side is a 78-year-old man, a former president. He was born into a wealthy family and inherited $400-plus million dollars from his father’s estate. He still went bankrupt six times, ripping off people who had provided him with products and services. He is a known sexual predator who has bragged about that. He has been convicted of 34 crimes (so far). If elected, he promises tax cuts for billionaires and retribution to people he believes have harmed him.
On the other side is a 59-year-old woman, the current vice-president of the U.S. She was raised by a single mother. As a teenager she worked at McDonald’s. She paid her own way through law school. She has served as a prosecutor, a state Attorney General and a federal senator. She has prosecuted predators and cartels that smuggled guns, drugs and people–and was able to shut them down. If elected, she promises tax cuts to small business and financial assistance to first-time home buyers. Her primary goal is to strengthen the middle class.
As a friend in the U.S. recently said to me, “Everyone voting has a clear choice. Most voters think there’s really only one choice–the candidate they prefer.”
I suspect most U.S. voters have a hard time understanding why anyone would want to vote for the candidate they do not intend to support.
***
Okay, that’s all true. But why am I wasting time watching and listening to various commentators and the candidates themselves, when I can do absolutely nothing to affect any of it?
Well, maybe it’s because the drama in our neighbouring country is more interesting than whatever is the current political drama in the Canadian parliament or Alberta legislature.
Maybe it’s because the outcome of the political drama in the U.S. will impact not just Canada, but the entire world.
Maybe it’s because–whichever candidate or party you would vote for if you could–the unfolding drama feels like an olden days good-guys-and-bad-guys story in real life.
Maybe it’s merely because the U.S. political drama is more interesting than my life.
Whatever the reason, I’m finding it addictive. Now I need to find the antidote.
***
I’d love to hear from you. If you have comments about this column or suggestions for future topics, send an email to Bonnie@BonnieHutchinson.com. I’ll happily reply within two business days.
Mitts, Bailey honoured at Mayor’s Arts Awards
By Murray Green
The City of Camrose Arts Council Mayor’s Arts Awards (MAA) honoured several residents in a special night at the Bailey Theatre on September 19.
This program acknowledges and celebrates artistic achievement and contributions to arts. This initiative supports the arts within the community. It assists the Camrose Arts and Culture Masterplan to foster and support emerging and established artists through programs of recognition.
The Mayor’s Arts awards are intended to increase awareness of the artistic community. The Mayor’s Arts Awards event showcases, acknowledges and honours artistic achievement.
The Mayor’s Arts Awards Program recognizes two categories of contribution. The Creator Award offered a cash prize and certificate of recognition. It recognizes the achievements of an individual or group demonstrating, creating, practicing and/or performing art. The winner of this award was decided by the Mayor’s Arts Awards Committee.
The Arts Champion Award is non-cash award and certificate of recognition. The Arts Champion Award recognizes an indi-
vidual, group or business that has made extraordinary contributions to the arts.
The creation and fostering of artistic endeavors, outstanding contributions in the areas of volunteerism, advocacy, support and development.
The winner of this award was decided solely by the Mayor’s Arts Awards Committee (no nominations or applications required).
Mayor PJ Stasko presented Steve Mitts with his award.
“Since graduating from Camrose Composite High School in 1987, and earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from University of Calgary in 1994, Steve has developed his unique style in acrylics on wood panels, stretch paper and other media. Early in his career, Steve developed a series exploring his fascination with renaissance themes and concepts,” said emcee Charlene Brown.
This work garnered significant attention in that it led to a six-year solo exhibition at the Hotel MacDonald in Edmonton where his work was noticed and acquired by many patrons of fine art. Since then, Steve’s art has reached across the country via countless projects and commissions.
“The pieces in my latest series all originated from
something that once existed in another form, 100-year old grain bins, and the wood they are made from comprise the components of recent paintings,” he said.
“The frame, the segments and the very structure of my new paintings are made from the past. It is fitting that the subject matter of the renaissance that has been the focus of my work for over 30 years, is now being explored and displayed in century old presentations,” Steve shared.
As a local artist presenting on the national stage, Steve is not only creating beautiful pieces that connect to our rural landscape and culture and will last for years to come, but he is also inspiring others to be patrons of the arts, and artists themselves. Steve regularly contributes pieces to local organizations for their fundraising and gives of his time and design talents locally. He truly is an ambassador for the arts in Camrose.
Creator Award Nominees were Alex McKeil, Audrey Pfannmuller, Bob Bailey, Camrose Veselka Ukrainian Dancers, Colleen Salahub-Olsen, Darryl Dewalt, Lisa Rootsaert, Shannon Saby, Shannon Subchuk and Sharon Dorival.
Mayor PJ Stasko presented Bob Bailey with the Champion Award.
“Bailey is the truest example of someone who gives back to his community. Born and raised here, he began his music journey at the very school he now teaches at, Charlie Killam,” said emcee Charlene Brown.
A school music teacher for 41 years, Bob has spent the majority of those years spent in Camrose. As a teacher, he has consistently gone above and beyond to provide an exceptional music education to every student that comes through his music room door, universally accepting and meeting students where they are at.
Bob’s ensembles regularly perform for the public and have received countless awards and accolades at music festivals over the years. His passion for music education is unmatched and evidenced by the endless hours of his personal time establishing extracurricular music groups, leading countless extra-curricular rehearsals, spearheading fundraisers, arranging school concerts and other performances, entering music festivals, and arranging camps and tours.
Continued on page 11
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
Steve Mitts and Bob Bailey received their Mayor’s Award from City of Camrose Mayor PJ Stasko.
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4N5 (next to The Lefse House)
HIGHWAY 21 PETITION
• Hauck Hearing Centre has been open in Camrose since 20 05 . We’ve been here the longest
• Hauck Hearing Centre is an independent retailer. We are not a franchise; we can dictate our preferred brand & competitive prices, without quotas or high-pressure sales, and we choose to o er in-home ser vices when other clinics won’ t or are not permitted. We are not bound by a head o ice in another par t of the world making our decisions for us.
• Hauck Hearing Centre is a family owned and operated business . Claire Milligan is a second-generation Board Cer tified in Hearing Instrument Sciences, Registere d Hearing Aid Practitioner. Claire has se since 2002 . Presently, she is training her teenage daughter in this field.
Hauck Hearing Centre o ers a hearing aid trial experience like no other clinic in Canada. Contact our o ice to learn more!
Verlyn D. ECA, KC, B.A., LLB Kirstyn B.A., J. Joshua Mohr B.Mus., LLB
• Lisa Adamson won the big karaoke finals at Cadillac’s Nightclub, taking home the first place prize of $1,000. Second place winner was Danielle Tibbo, while Tom Sinclair came in third.
• Camrose City Council designated City Clerk Neil Brodie as the person responsible for administration of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIPP) act and for dealing with any requests for information persuant to the legislation. The act took full effect on October 1.
• In a matter of minutes the relatively bare shelves at the Camrose and District Food Bank were filled to overflowing September 30 as hundreds of Camrose Composite High School students participating in the annual Food Frenzy paraded in with 3,366 food items. Students arrived on foot, on bicycles built for two (Erika Zacharias and Erika Knudson) in colour floats, and in costumes like the drama club who packed a coffin filled with food to the Food Bank. Prizes were awarded to the classes with the greatest number of cans per capita, for the most frenzied costume, the most frenzied transportation, and the top three students who collected the most food – Larry MacFarlane (80 items), Mike McCarthy (68) and Kelly Gress (52).
• The Camrose and District Family Thrift Shop donated $3,000 to the Camrose Police Service bike patrol for the purchase of bikes, bike equipment, bags and reflectors, helmets, shirts and runners. Posing with Thrift Shop board members Janet Piro, Annie Mikasko, Mary Rudyk, Gloria Wimmer and Jean Starcheski were CPS bike patrol constables Lee Foreman, Rick Hopwood, Rick Marcinkowski, Kevin Keech, Aaron Hamilton, Roberta McKale, Christ Bennett, Brian Parker and Sean Clark.
• Camrose placed first in Canada in the Planned Pedestrian Safety Program in the class for Communities of 5,000 to 10,000. The trophy was presented to Mayor Swanson by Len Sanders of Edmonton, Director of the Alberta Motor Association. Most of the credit for the award was given to the Camrose Police Department, led by Deputy Chief Duff Franklin
• Baxter Dick, President of the Alberta Association for the Mentally Retarded, installed the Officers and Directors of the local association. They are Frieda Kabush, President; Ron Nelson, Vice-President; Lois Gillsepie, Past President; Irene Sauve, Secretary; Don Gillespie, Treasurer; and Directors: Noreen Hallett, Kathleen Collyer, Allen Hitman and Louise Palichuk.
Tips for a healthier relationship with your own social media
By Murray Green Social media and
news can help you stay connected. But all that information can also be overwhelming. It can disrupt your day. And it’s easy to form habits you didn’t mean to, according to Alberta Health Services.
Be sure to stay safe while using social media. Be careful with the information you share and who you share it with when you’re on-line.
If someone is harassing or threatening you, unfriend or remove them from your friends list, block them and report them to the site administrator. Learn about
how to use the privacy settings on social media and keep your security software up to date.
Know your goal. If you want to use social media to stay up-to-date on community events, log off after you have the info you need. Notice how it makes you feel. Does seeing what friends are sharing make you happy? Or does it make you feel down? Does the daily news stress you out? When you know how news and social media affect you, you can decide if you need to make some changes to how you use them.
Don’t compare your ev-
eryday life to someone else’s on-line life. People usually post about the shiny parts of their lives instead of daily struggles or disappointments. So even if what you’re seeing is a true story, remember that it won’t be the whole story. Add to your life and learning with real-world experience.
Ask the CITY
Question:
Why has the school zone signage changed?
Answer:
Following a review of the posted hours for local Camrose schools, the City engineering department noted that the start and end times for some local schools did not line up with the current provincial standard for school zone hours (being between 8 and 9:30 a.m., between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and between 3 and 4:30 p.m.).
Under provincial regulations, a municipality is permitted to establish their own school zone hours. Following a review with local school boards, City council amended the City’s Traffic Bylaw to change the school zone times throughout Camrose to be between 7:30 and 16:30 (4:30 p.m.) on every school day. This change came into effect in late August, prior to the start of the 2024-25 academic year.
Additionally, the City completed a review of the location of school zone and school area signs, and noted that in some cases, signage around Camrose schools did not align with provincial guidelines.
As a result, during the summer of 2024, the City updated all school zone and school area signage locations throughout the City. In addition to ensuring consistency with provincial guidelines, this change helped to reduce signage clutter on the roadways closest to schools and expanded some school zones to the adjacent roadways.
Have a question for the City? Email them to The Camrose Booster at news@camrosebooster.com
Change notification settings. That way you can find information you want when you’re ready for it, instead of letting it find you. Unfollow and hide feeds as needed. If accounts you follow or friends you have post things that stress you out, get rid of them. If you don’t want to unfriend someone, just change your settings so that you don’t see what they post anymore. They’ll never know.
Follow the feel-good stuff. The news can be heavy. Try to find balance by focusing on things that make you feel happy. Try following social media accounts that are focused on your interests or on things that make you laugh. And sign up for good news mailers. Most major news outlets offer them, or something like it. To help you find balance try tracking how much time you spend on social media or reading news.
Set a time to step away. Make time to disconnect from news and social media. Close your apps and turn off the TV. Read a book, get outside, work on a puzzle, or call a friend. It doesn’t matter what you choose to do. Just make sure it’s something that feels supportive and worth your time.
Read positive newspapers, such as The Camrose Booster, to receive the good news of the community.
Malcolm Boyd, City Manager
Beer!
By Adan Shaikh
When asked to think of the busiest Camrose intersections, 48 Avenue and 56 Street comes to mind almost instantly. The 50 kilometres an hour speed limit, numerous important businesses nearby, and Mirror Lake right off the road makes this one of the most bustling spots to cross the street at any time of day.
In June 2024, the City Council adopted a new Installation of Pedestrian Safety Devices policy. “The purpose of the update to the policy was to ensure that the City’s policy was aligned with national best practices in association with the Traffic Associa
tion of Canada,” informed
Flashing lights on 48 Avenue, 56 Street
Jeremy Enarson, manager of Engineering Services. However, it wasn’t feasible to change all road crossing devices at once, which is why it was decided that they will be upgraded as the need arises and as funding allows. The Flashing lights at 56 Street have become a concern for the community. The lights that pedestrians activate before crossing are affixed on top of a pork chop island. While no incidents involving pedestrians have occurred, there was an instance where the device was knocked out by a vehicle, posing a safety risk to residents.
“Administration is recommending that the existing crossing along 48
Avenue and 56 Street be upgraded from a roadside rectangular flasher to an overhead flasher system,” commented Malcolm Boyd, City manager. It was discussed whether the crossing should be removed entirely to prevent any future incidents, but council and engineering staff agreed that people would naturally want to cross at this location due to its proximity to businesses on 48 Avenue. Banning the crossing could lead to increased jaywalking. Council ultimately decided that the flashing lights will be upgraded, and this installation will be included in the 2025 to 2034 capital plan.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
The City plans on replacing crosswalk flashing lights by Mirror Lake with overhead lights to increase safety for pedestrians.
Annual General Meeting
Join us in-person, Thursday, November 7 7:30 PM, Camrose Rotary Centre (4517-54 Street)
We will also be drawing one free soccer registrat ion for soccer members in attendance!
CDSA is not- for-profit organization t hat relies on t he volunteerism of its members. If you have quest ions, concerns or want to be par t of our board please come to our Annual General Meet ing.
Mayor’s Arts Awards
Continued from page 6
In addition to all this, Bob lends his expertise to community arts projects and organizations. He has established and participates in local ensembles as a musician and supports other musicians and music programs locally and beyond. Bob also continually reaches outside the community to guest conduct, adjudicate and participate on boards that foster music education across the province. Bob has been acknowledged by his peers over the years as an outstanding music educator. The immense impact Bob has made to the musical arts in our community, and to the individual lives of students, parents, musicians, other educators and administra-
tors is undeniable and can be seen at higher levels of learning in the community and beyond.
The MAA committee is comprised of seven members with a range of expertise and perspectives, who are respected, knowledgeable and representative of a spectrum of artistic practices including one member of the Camrose Arts Council board and a member of the City of Camrose, recreation and culture department.
Co-chairs of the Mayor’s Arts Awards committee are Charlene Brown and Steven Hansen, secretary Tanya Pattullo, treasurer Angela Vanouck, members at large Arlo Grundberg and Joel Morello.
This is Cathy and Don with their horses, Johnny and Diesel. In 2023, they got a $5,121 profit shares cash payout from Vision, which they put towards their favourite pastime – mounted shooting. The sport involves shooting targets with blanks while racing a course. It’s a challenge that demands horsemanship and a skilled hand. It also demands a bit of cash, says Don, which puts a share of the profits right on target. What’s your share ?
Fire prevention starts with the right smoke alarm
By Adan Shaikh
When it comes to fire safety, many people use the terms smoke detector” and smoke alarm” interchangeably, but they actually refer to two distinct devices.
Understanding the difference between the two is es sential for ensuring that your home is adequately protected. A smoke dete ctor is a sensor de signed to dete ct smoke and is typically connec ted to a larger, building-wide fire alar m system. Unlike a smoke alar m, it does not have a buil t-in speaker to aler t occupants directly bu t instead sends a signal to a central system, which then trig gers an alar m. These devices are more common in commercial or industrial settings
In contrast, a smoke alarm, the kind you would probably find in your home, combines both a smoke sensor and an audible alarm in one unit. When smoke is detected, the alarm sounds immediately, aler ting anyone nearby Smoke alarms are t ypically used in residential homes, where immediate aler t is critical to en-
suring that residents can escape safely in case of fire
When choosing the right smoke alarm for your home, it’s impor tant to know that there are dif ferent t ypes of alarms, each with its own streng ths and weaknesses
“Ionization detectors tends to respond better to flaming fires, the photoelectric detector per forms be tter at detecting smoldering fires. There is potential that both t ypes of fire can occur in residences so there is no right answer when it comes to which t ype of smoke alarm is best. As there is no way to predict which kind of fire could occur,” said Camrose Fire Depar tment fire and life safety educator Jeff Knopf
The most common t ypes of alarms are ionization and photoelectric alarms. Ionization alarms use a small amount of radioactive material to ionize air par ticles, creating an electrical current that is disrupted when smoke enters the chamber, trig gering the alarm. Ionization alarms tend to be less expensive but can be prone to false alarms from non-flame sources like cooking.
nuisance alarms
Some smoke alarms come with additional features that improve safety or convenience. Voice smoke alarms, for example, emit not only the standard three loud beeps but also a voice announcement that can indicate the location of the detected smoke or any is sues with the alarm. Combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms can detect both smoke and dangerous levels of carbon monoxide (CO) , making them a good choice for homes with fuel-burning appliances or at tached garages.
The next thing to consider when installing smoke alarms would be to decide between hard wired and batter y-powered models
Photoelectric alarms use a light sensor that is activated when smoke scat ters light into a photosensitive chamber, causing the alarm to sound. While they are generally more expensive than ionization alarms, they are less likely to trig ger false alarms from sources like cooking or steam. For homeowners seeking comprehensive protection, there are also combination smoke alarms that feature both ionization and photoelectric sensors. These dual-sensor alarms are ef fective at detecting both flaming and smoldering fires, providing a higher level of safety in various fire scenarios. Another option for enhanced reliabilit y is the intelligent multi-criteria alarm, which combines ionization, photoelectric, and heat sensors. These alarms use algorithms to determine whether smoke is present, reducing the likelihood of false alarms from non-fire sources like steam or cooking. Although they may not detect fires faster, they of fer a significant reduction in
Hard wired alarms are connected to your home’s electrical system and t ypically include a batter y backup in case of power outages. If you are replacing hard wired alarms, NFPA recommends you use the same manufacturer, and have a profes sional install it. Batter y-powered alarms are easier to install but require regular batter y checks to ensure they are functioning properly Some newer models feature sealed, long-life batteries that last up to 10 years, reducing the need for frequent batter y replacements, but regular testing is still something you should not overlook
Interconnected smoke alarms are another option for homeowners who want to enhance their fire safety These alarms are either wired or WiFi connected, so if one alarm detects smoke, all the alarms in the home will sound. This feature can be a lifesaver, especially in larger homes or for people who sleep with doors closed, as it ensures early warning no matter where the fire star ts
For those who are deaf or hard of hearing, traditional smoke alarms may not be sufficient. There are alarms equipped with strobe lights or bed shakers that activate when smoke is detected, ensuring that ever yone in the household is aler ted in case of a fire
feer a si s gnifican a t reduuction ensure you are
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
When purchasing a smoke alarm, be sure to select one that has been tested and certified by a recognized laborator y, such as Under writers Laboratories (UL) or Inter tek. It is also impor tant to follow local building codes and fire safety regulations, especially if you are renovating or building a new home By understanding the difference between smoke detectors and smoke alarms, and selecting the right t ype of alarm for your home, you can help protect your family and ensure you are prepared in the event of a fire
Jeff Knopf, fire and life safety educator, demonstrated how to test your smoke alarm. Install! Test! Replace!
Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you! ™
When the smoke alarm sounds, get out side and stay out side. Go to your out side meeting place. Call 9-1-1 from a mobile phone or a trusted neighbour’s phone. Stay outside until the Fi re Depar tment tells you it is safe to go back inside
Replace smoke alarms 10 years from the date of manufacture.
Test all smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
You could have as little as two minutes to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Work in g smoke alarms give you early war nin g so you can get outside quickly.
Inst allation
■ Install smoke alar ms in ever y bedroom, ou tside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level (including the basement) of the home
■ When installing follow the instructions that come with the smoke alar m.
■ For the be st protection, interc onnect all smoke alar ms. When one sounds, they all sound. It is important to have interc onnected smoke alar ms if you sleep with the bedroom door s closed
■ A smoke alar m should be on the ceiling or high on a wall
How to Choose an Alarm
It is important to purchase a smoke alar m that is listed by a qualified te sting laboratory The two most common types of smoke alar ms are ionization and photoelectric alar ms
■ For the be st protection, or where ex tra time is needed to wake up or help others, both types of alar ms or dual sensor ionization photoelectric alar ms are recommende d.
■ An ionization smoke alar m is more re sponsive to flaming fire s and a photoelectric smoke alar m is more re sponsive to smoldering fire s.
■ Photoelectric smoke alar ms are the be st type of alar ms to be installed near the kitchen and bathrooms to reduce nuisance alar ms
Testing and Maintenance
■ Te st smoke alar ms at leas t once a month by pushing the te st bu tton
■ Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning to keep smoke alar ms working.
Replacemen t
■ Smoke alar ms with nonreplaceable (long-life) batterie s are de signed to remain ef fective for up to 10 year s. If the alar m chirps, warning that the batter y is low, replace the entire smoke alar m right away
■ For smoke alar ms that do not have non- replaceable (long-life) batterie s, replace batterie s at leas t once a year If the alar m chirps, replace only the batter y.
Pancake Breakfast
Sunday, Oc tober 6, 8 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Camrose Fire Department
Children 6 and under: FREE 7 to 12 year s: $6 13 year s and over: $12 CASH ONLY
OCTOBER 6 TO 12, 2024
“ Music, political campaigns
We are currently in Stage 2 of our 4-stage water shortage response plan. The following MANDATORY water restrictions are in place:
• Lawns may only be watered between 6AM to 9AM and 7PM to 11PM
•Lawns may only be watered between 6AM to 9AM and 7PM to 11PM.
• Odd-numbered houses may water only on odd-numbered days
• Even-numbered houses may water only on even-numbered days
Odd-numbered houses may water only on odd-numbered days
• Flowerbeds, vegetable gardens and newly-laid sod may be watered at any time by hand, provided that the wa ter used has been drawn from a rain barrel, from a watering can, or a hose with a no zzle fitted with a trigger shut-off to restrict water flow
Even-numbered houses may water only on even-numbered days
• Flowerbeds, vegetable gardens and newly-laid sod may be watered at any time by hand, provided that the water used has been drawn from a rain barrel, from a watering can, or a hose with a nozzle fitted with a trigger shut-off to restrict water flow.
• Vehicles can only be washed with bucket and hand-held hose or at a commercial car wash. Pressure washers are not allowe d to wash vehicles.
•Vehicles can only be washed with bucket and hand held hose or at a commercial car wash. Pressure washers are not allowed to wash vehicles.
• Additional water restrictions can be found under Stage 2 of the Water Shor tage Response Plan or Stage 2 of the Water Conser vation / Water Use Policy
•Additional water restrictions can be found under Stage 2 of the Water Shortage Response Plan or Stage 2 of the Water Conservation / Water Use Policy.
Any violation of these restrictions can result in fines.
For more information about water conservation or the water shortage response plan, please visit www camrose.ca/WaterShortage
NOTICE OF PU BLIC HEARING MUNICIPAL DEVE LOPM ENT PLAN
Purs uant to the provisions of the Municipal Government Act, Section 632
rt a and amendments thereto, PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that Council of the Ci ty of Camros e gave firs t reading to By law 3341-24 on Septembe r 23, 2024 The purpos e of By law 33 41-24 is to adopt the Our Camros e, Shaping the Future Municipal Developmen t Plan
An MDP guides the grow th and direct ion of a communit y into the future and includes policies that help communitie s to achieve it s unique vision. Our Camros e, Shaping the Future is the Ci ty of Camros e’s master plan for the next 25 year s that illust rate s how the ci ty will use land and improve economic, social and environmental well-being
A Public Hearin g is schedule d to be held as follows:
Date: November 4, 2024
Time: 5: 00 p.m.
Place: Camrose City Hall , 5204-5 0 Avenue, Camrose, AB
Any pe rs on(s) who have an intere st regarding the pass ing of By law 3341-24 are encourag ed to at tend the Public Hearin g in pe rs on to st ate their suppor t or object ions Please be advi se d that any correspondence submit ted to the City on this notice will form part of the public record and will appear on the City ’s website as part of the meetin g agenda The Ci ty consider s the author ’s comments relevant to the Council’s consideratio n of this matter and will publish this pe rs onal information. Any writ te n submis sions to be considered by Ci ty Council are re quired to be submit ted no later than Oc tober 22 , 2024 , at 4: 00 pm by mail to: Ci ty of Camros e, Le gislative Se rv ic es 5204 -5 0 Avenue, Camros e, AB T4V 0S 8 or by email to: legs er vices@camros e.ca
Notice is hereby given that Council may thereafter without furt he r notice proceed with final approval of By law 3341-24 at the regular Council Meet ing on November 4, 2024 For additional information, contac t Franci sc a Fredericks Long Range Planner of Planning and Developmen t Se rv ic es Te l. 780- 672- 4428 or email to ff rederick s@camros e.ca
With the U.S. federal election drawing near, campaigning is in full swing. In this busy season of large public rallies and intensive media and social media engagement, the issue of music and politics inevitably returns to the foreground as candidates select and broadcast songs in tandem with their political activities.
This is nothing new, of course, and is not unique to American politics. Also not new is the backlash and miscues that this merger of music and politics inevitably engenders.
Alexander Carpenter, music, University of Alberta Augustana Campus
When music is politicized, it can either “punch up” or “punch down.” Music used in the service of political protest–such as anti-war songs–is punching up, as people use it as a form of protest or resistance against government actions. When music is used by governments–as propaganda, for instance, or when it is weaponized for war–it is punching down, as a tool of authority.
In the case of political campaigns, music punches down, even as it is ostensibly used to connect with the voting public in an elemental way. Politicians who use–and align their identities with–popular pop and rock songs are making a kind of grass roots appeal, but one that is nonetheless propagandistic. The goal of using music in political campaigning is to gain political advantage by linking a candidate’s persona or ideology to a ready-made and easily digestible artefact of pop culture. The effect is to manipulate the sensibilities of the voting public, as the more granular aspects of a candidate’s policies and personality are subsumed under an assumed (musical) identity.
In some cases, musicians themselves obligingly loan their music and celebrity status to candidates they support. Taylor Swift, for example, has offered her endorsement of Kamala Harris, aligning herself with Harris’ liberal positions while mocking Republican vice-presidential nominee JD Vance by signing off her endorsement as a “childless cat lady.” Country-rock singer Kid Rock has performed at the Republican National Convention in support of former president Donald Trump: Rock’s anti-establishment music and persona–as an “American Badass”–aligns with Trump’s identity as a non-establishment candidate. Trump has, in fact, stoked controversy over his use of a wide variety of songs at campaign rallies, ranging from “We’re Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister to REM’s “It’s the End of the World.” The Trump campaign has faced sharp rebukes from a growing number of musicians–from ABBA and Adele to Elton John and Bruce Springsteen–who object to the use of their music without permission and without their endorsement of Trump’s campaign and political platform (this tends to be an issue almost entirely exclusive to Republican politicians, presumably because celebrity musicians tend to be Democrat supporters and strongly left-leaning in their political orientation).
Springsteen offers a poignant example of how political campaign music can be misused. Not only does Springsteen, an avid liberal, not support Donald Trump, but the borrowed song in question–”Born in the USA”–is one that appears to be a patriotic anthem but is in fact critical of America and its politics, and challenges the clichés of the “American Dream, ” as many of Springsteen’s songs do (and of course, Ronald Reagan made this same misstep with the song in 1984). In a similar vein, Trump has used Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Fortunate Son” at rallies, to the dismay of the song’s writer, John Fogarty—the song is a biting critique of the wealthy and the privileged, who fail to pay their fair share of taxes and don’t have to send their children to war.
This is the risk of using music in support of political campaigns. As “Born in the USA” aptly demonstrates, songs can have more than one meaning, and don’t necessarily serve the agenda to which they are attached by politicians. As the US election draws nearer–and as we potentially face a federal election in Canada sooner rather than later–it will be interesting to continue to track the use of music in the service of campaign politics. In the meantime, perhaps the voting public should consider adopting its own musical anthem in response to this propaganda as it navigates these intense election seasons: “Won’t get fooled again”?
Fire Prevention focuses on smoke alarms
By Adan Shaikh
This year, Fire Prevention Week focuses on an important message: Smoke Alarms, Make them work for you. It’s about ensuring that these life-saving devices are fully functional, prepared to alert you in any emergency. This campaign highlights the importance of installing, testing and replacing your alarms regularly, ensuring your home or business is equipped for any potential hazard.
Recognizing how to do this is important, making sure they’re installed, tested, and replaced regularly is simple. All smoke alarms come equipped with a “TEST” button and a simple click will let you know if your smoke alarm is in good working condition. “We recommend that smoke alarms be tested once a month,” said CFD fire and life safety educator Jeff Knopf. In partnership with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Camrose Fire Department is emphasizing three critical steps to ensure your safety from fire and carbon monoxide:
1. Install your alarms both smoke and CO detectors in key locations. “Smoke alarms should be installed close to the ceiling, at least one on every floor” explained fire and life safety educator Jeff Knopf. He advises placing them in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level of your home, including the basement. You also need to be mindful not to place smoke detectors near windows, cooking appliances or ducts where a draft could interfere with their operation. According to the latest NFPA research, the chances of a death during a house fire is decreased by 60 per cent in homes with working smoke detectors.
2. Test your alarms regularly to make sure they’re functioning. Alarms that are installed but not tested might as well not be there. Each month, test your smoke detectors to make sure the batteries and sound are working. A good rule of thumb is to change the batteries once a year to avoid any malfunctions. Another way to stay on top of maintenance is to make sure the smoke detector is not obstructed “Vacuum the exterior of the smoke detector using a soft bristle attachment on your vacuum cleaner,” said Knopf.
3. Replace. Smoke alarms generally have a 10 year lifespan, while CO alarms need regular battery
changes, so if your alarm isn’t functioning properly, swap it out right away. Beyond alarms, another key to safety is having a practised escape plan posted somewhere in the home where everyone can see it. In the event of a fire or carbon monoxide emergency, your household or business should have a clear, rehearsed route to get out, with a designated meeting place outside. If you have children or pets it is important to make sure they understand this plan as well.
The message from the NFPA is clear, Install! Test! Replace! If you hear an alarm, don’t ignore it, check your escape route, and leave the building immediately.
“Important thing a family can do is have a working smoke detector because typically fires start small and the smoke detector would give the family enough time to get away from it,” noted Knopf.
To kick off Fire Prevention Week, the Camrose Fire Department will also be hosting a Pancake
Breakfast at the Firehall from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m on October 6. Remember, staying
DEATHS
Marion Esther Pawlivsky, of Camrose, formerly of Grande Prairie, on September 18, at 84 years of age.
Jerome Duphay, of Edmonton, formerly of Camrose, on September 18, at 48 years of age.
Barry Allen Lassesen, of Duhamel, on September 18, at 67 years of age.
vigilant about smoke detectors can save you and your family’s life.
Cory Parent, of Tofield, on September 22, at 71 years of age.
Mildred Irene Rokos, of Ryley, on September 22, at 91 years of age.
Theresa Marie Panas, of Edmonton, formerly of Camrose, on September 24, at 78 years of age.
Philip “Phil” Wendlin Stang, of Camrose, formerly of Macklin, SK, on September 27, at 81 years of age.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!
Kodiaks rebound against Oil Barons
By Murray Green
Camrose Kodiaks bounced back in a big way, winning back-to-back 3-2 games against the Fort McMurray Oil Barons in Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) action on September 20 and 21.
In the first contest, Sam Lozinski netted his goal of the year in overtime to give the bears its first victory of the season.
Fort McMurray scored the opening two tallies of the game, before the Kodiaks added some growl to its game. Cole Balkovec scored in the first and Garrett Thom collected a marker in the second to force overtime.
Camrose blasted the Oil Barons with 38 shots on goal. Meanwhile, Kodiaks goalie Carter Capton stopped 20 of 22 shots directed his way.
In the rematch, Fort McMurray again led 2-0 before the Kodiaks grabbed some nastiness and potted three straight goals.
Tyson Murray scored for the Kodiaks in the opening period and then Ludovik Tardif connected twice on the power play in the middle frame, for the tying marker and game winner.
Goalie Capton turned away 19 of 21 shots, while Camrose peppered the Oil Barons with 34 shots on goal.
Home games in October include Sunday, October 6 at 2 p.m. against Calgary Canucks; Saturday, October 12 at 6 p.m. against Devon; Wednesday, October 16 at noon against Lloydminster Bobcats and Saturday, October 19 at 6 p.m. against Grand Prairie.
Bear facts
Tardif and Ian Alonso lead the Kodiaks on offence with three points each. Camrose is in fourth place with five points after four games.
Seniors tour the world through VR
By Murray Green
Garry Weiss’s childhood wasn’t all about wide open spaces. Sure, growing up in rural Alberta meant he had fond memories of backyard games like Ante I
Over
“Garry was also a curious kid fascinated by new technology. He dove into any job he could find, from farming and pumping gas to retail and construction crews. This fascination with the latest gadgets extended to computers–his first one, a TRS Model 1 from Radio Shack, seemed like a technological marvel with its whopping 4K of RAM,” said Camrose Adult Learning Council (CALC) coordinator Ron Serna.
It was a Model I with monitor and cassette recorder from a Radio Shack catalogue. Garry’s first mobile phone was not the sleek, pocket-sized device
we know today. It was a bulky, car-bound contraption that predated cellular networks.
“Garry now resides at RoseAlta Lodge, a Bethany Group care facility in Camrose. With limited mobility, making the adventures of his youth seem like a distant dream. However, thanks to the Immersive Tech Pilot Project, a collaboration between (CALC) and RoseAlta activities, residents like Garry are rediscovering the thrill of exploration through innovative technology,” said Ron in his report.
It aims to enhance lifelong learning and wellbeing in long-term care, the Immersive Pilot Project partnered with Bethany Group.
“VR offers a new, engaging interface for learning. As traditional methods can become challenging with
age, VR creates a fresh way to connect with the world and experience real-life scenarios through gaming and virtual environments,” said Ron.
Studies indicate increased isolation among Canadian residents postCOVID. Recognizing this need, Ron spearheaded the Immersive Tech Pilot Project. He wanted to introduce innovative learning opportunities and combat negative health effects associated with isolation.
A grant from The United Way allowed CALC to explore immersive technologies, leading them to invest in equipment like VR headsets. This project aims to leverage VR’s potential as both a learning tool and a therapeutic intervention to boost mood and social interaction among residents. Residents like Garry are loving VR. With head-
GRAND OPENING
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
Giant Tiger Camrose manager Joan Guiriba and her staff held an official opening of a new location on Saturday, September 21. The new 15,600 square foot store is located at 7005-48th Avenue, Camrose. Below: Giant Tiger Stores Camrose manager Joan Guiriba and regional manager Amanda Fast, right, made a charitable donation of $1,000 to support the Camrose Food Bank through Neighbor Aid, a non-profit organization that works with the community to meet the basic needs of the residents of the County and City of Camrose. Accepting the funds were Neighbor Aid president Kathy Richard, left, and executive director Jo-Anne Tweed.
sets provided by CALC, Bethany Group facilitators can whisk them on virtual adventures, fulfilling lifelong dreams or simply offering a calming escape.
“It’s amazing,” Garry said. “Like nothing I’ve ever experienced.”
VR transcends the limitations of the care facility, offering endless experiences. Whether it’s a serene ocean vista or a thrilling African safari, VR caters to each resident’s needs. For those experiencing cognitive decline, VR can provide soothing visuals, while others can virtually soar over the Grand Canyon or swim with dolphins.
“Residents love it because it’s fresh and fun. Trying new VR stuff gets their memories joggin’, and then everyone gets to chat about the good ol’ days.” Dianna Carriere said.
As Ron switches Garry’s VR to an underwater shipwreck teeming with whales and exotic fish, Garry’s hand instinctively reaches out, as if yearning to touch or connect with the magnificent creatures.
“I experienced them and I heard them,” Garry says. “You could hear the ocean and I heard them (dolphins) making noise.”
“Revisiting cherished memories can be a powerful emotional boost,” said Ron.
The project’s ease of use–just a tablet and VR goggles–highlights VR’s significant leap from bulky, inaccessible tech to a userfriendly system. This accessibility opens doors for wider adoption across various sectors.
Initially skeptical, Garry watched others use the VR headsets with a mix of apprehension and curiosity. The pull of the unknown proved stronger, and he soon found himself joining the weekly VR sessions held in the common area. “Maybe someday,” he chuckled, “They’ll even make a VR version of Red Rover–wouldn’t that be something? To chase after friends again, just like when I was a kid!”
For more information, visit Camrose Adult Learning Council at www.camrose learning.com or phone 780-672-8754.
Introducing…
We are pleas ed to introduce Adan Shaikh who has chos en to join the Editor ial Sta of the Camros e Boo ster. She has been an active member of our community for the past s even years and is the author of three published book s. Her pa ssion lies in wr iting about meaningful topic s and o er ing unique perspectives to our readers. Adan regards being a part of the Booster Team in this position a s being her “Dream Job,” and along with her husband and two -and one -half year- old s on, look for ward to the years ahead, wr iting about happening s in Camros e and the Ba ttle River area we s er ve Adan, along with Murray, welcome tips and suggestions for coverage of activities and events tha t are of interest to you. You may reach them at…
Murray Green Editor
Blain Fowler Publisher
Adan Shaikh Repor ter
Todd Luey Camrose Ensuite Manager with 16 years of construction experience, will help you make great choices.
Free Makers’ Space by Camrose Arts Society
By Adan Shaikh
is located between the theatre and Bistro doors. For ongoing updates, please refer to their website and social media channels.
The Camrose Arts Society’s mission is to inspire joy and spark creativity through the power of the arts. Embracing artists of every discipline, from painters and poets to musicians, sculptors, and woodworkers, the Society is committed to ensuring that the arts are accessible to all. Now, they are enhancing their community presence by introducing a free Makers’ Space, set to become a creative hot-spot for the people of Camrose. This new program offers a welcoming environment where individuals can explore artistic expression without the constraints of material costs or limited space. The Makers’ Space will be open to everyone, from novices to experienced artists, from children to elders, providing an opportunity to engage with various art forms in a relaxed and supportive setting.
“Come with an open mind; we definitely don’t have any expectations of how experienced you need to be. It’s all inclusive here, so feel free to explore and learn,” advises acrylic landscape and wildlife artist, Samantha Walters, who is also in charge of this project.
Members of the Arts Society will lead complimentary classes, offering instruction in a wide array of mediums. Whether participants are eager to experiment with painting, wax sculpture, or delve into the world of poetry, they will be encouraged to
discover new skills and creative avenues. This pilot plan aims to be a melting pot of ideas and inspiration, where individuals from all walks of life can come together, collaborate, and learn. This project aligns with their ongoing goal of nurturing an inclusive artistic community where expression and exploration are celebrated and encouraged at all levels. “People of all ages are welcome; we do ask that kids under 14 years of age be accompanied by an adult,” added
Samantha. The Arts Society hopes this program becomes a permanent fixture in Camrose; however, finding space and supplies has been a challenge. Currently, they are hoping to find more funding to make sure this space can be offered in the long run.
Whether you aspire to master a new skill, discover innovative forms of expression, or connect with artists, the Makers’ Space offers a valuable opportunity for all.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Samantha Walters, secretary and an acrylic landscape and wildlife artist, is leading this project and the first class. The entrance to makers’ space
E-Scooters in Camrose
By Adan Shaikh
Driving down 48 Avenue, you may see people on electric scooters swooping down the sidewalk. These electric two wheelers are powered by a motor that doesn’t exceed 500 watts, which poses an important question, are people on these scooters drivers or pedestrians?
In June 2023, the City approved Business Licence Bylaw and Traffic Bylaw to allow for a pilot project involving e-scooters in Camrose. This plan allowed the municipality to run a shared e-scooter program in Camrose until October 30. With the approval of our municipality the speed limit for these scooters was set to 20 kilometres per hour and wearing a helmet is strongly recommended. Users should keep in mind that according to our Traffic Safety Act (TSA) these electric scooters are technically considered miniature vehicles and safety should be a priority.
Many residents are enjoying this service, you simply scan the QR code displayed on the scooter with your phone and it gives you instructions on how to activate the scooter, payment is made through the application associated with the escooter. However, as fun and helpful this project has been there have been some complaints as well.
“I have received two phone calls and several verbal complaints around the discarded e-scooters that they are left all over for long periods of time,” shared councillor Agnes Hoveland.
Once a rider gets to their destination what do they do with the e-scooter? They just leave it where it is and they may not need it or want to use it again for their next trip, which means the scooter sits where it was left for days. The City council and community development will discuss these concerns once the pilot project is completed and a follow up is done with the escooter company before any decisions are made on how permanent this service becomes in Camrose.
Until then, the council recommends that residents practice riders rules for safety. Always be mindful of pedestrians and give them right of way. Riders must be over the age of 16. Do not exceed the speed limit of 20 kilometres per hour, and lastly, always park in an upright position and in a location where it does not obstruct the street or sidewalk.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
The City is currently working with the e-scooter business provider to find a remedy for the abandoned e-scooters.
By Murray Green
Tom
MacIssac
of Millet owns a 1960 Ford F100 truck.
“Most of the truck was done at a restoration shop in Wetaskiwin and I finished the rest. I had one of these trucks in high school, so that is why I wanted one of these. It had some special memories for me and I wanted a similar one back,” shared Tom.
The third-generation of the Ford F-Series is a series of trucks that were produced by Ford from 1957 until 1960.
“I still have some parts and pieces from high school days such as the grille and tailgate. The bumper on this truck is from my original truck. I always wanted to restore a truck just like this,” added Tom.
“Back in 2004 I had a mid-life crisis and bought my first old truck. I ended up getting about eight of them to make one good truck because of the rust and missing pieces,” explained Tom.
In the rear, two types of pickup boxes were offered, starting a new naming convention: the traditional separate-fender box was dubbed Flareside, while Styleside boxes integrated the pickup bed, cab and front fenders together.
“I put it together since 2004, and finally got it
The automotive section of
MacIssac restores his high school truck
some of those
on the road in 2012. This truck has a 312 motor and a standard three in the tree transmission,” he said. Following its competitors at Dodge and General Motors, Ford widened the
FUN FACTS
In 1958, the grille was updated; the dual headlights are replaced by quad headlights (the only generation of the F-Series to use them).
In 1959, Ford introduced the option of the F-Series in four-wheel drive. Previously a conversion outsourced to Marmon-Herrington, Ford was the first of the big three U.S. manufacturers to manufacture four-wheel drive trucks on its own. The 1960 Ford looked all-new with twin headlights riding in a scalloped-square front clip. The trucks were completely redesigned in 1961 as the fourth generation of the Ford F-Series. Introducing a lower and wider cab over the previous generation, Ford introduced several design changes to the model line. Along with the traditional separate Flareside beds, Ford introduced unibody trucks. These were originally named as the integrated pickup and consisted of the cab and the bed into one continuous piece, with no gap between them. The design required fewer stampings, such as the back of the cab served as the leading edge of the bed, less complicated assembly, such as the single-wall bed sides were spot-welded directly to the door sills, and the body had a less complicated path through the assembly plant’s paint shop. All models with Flareside beds, continued to use separate cabs and beds. Styleside beds were carried over from the 1957–60 models.
front bodywork to integrate the cab and front fenders together.
“I like the square look of these trucks. It caught my eye in high school and I’ve liked the look of these ever since then,” stated Tom.
Going a step further, the F-Series integrated the hood into the bodywork with a clamshell design; the feature would stay part of the F-Series for two decades.
“Having the grille, endgate and a few other pieces from on my original truck on this truck makes this a special vehicle to me. A lot of the other pieces rusted away, so I had to get some different ones, but to be able to have some of the original pieces included in the rebuild was my dream since high school and it turned out well,” added Tom.
Although offered previously, the optional chrome grille was far more prominent than before.
“My mom worked at Ford, so I was able to get
some parts and pieces from her as well at wholesale. I started doing that to keep the costs down. I collected parts for a few years, then in 2004 I started putting it together,” he continued.
“Then he met me,”
laughed Deb Castor. “I said get that truck on the road.” Tom followed her orders and finished the truck that he enjoys driving and taking to car shows in the summer.
Perhaps you own vintage automotive repair or diagnostic tools Tell us what you have. Or perhaps you have terrific memories or tales from being in the trade
OLD SCHOOL
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
Tom MacIssac recalled the days in high school when he cruised around in 1960 with a Ford pickup truck. He kept
pieces from the truck and added some from similar ones to build his new 1960 truck.
Words need to be backed by action
By Damien C. Kurek, MP, Battle River-Crowfoot
On September 5th, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh announced that he was ripping up the Supply and Confidence Agreement, a de facto coalition the NDP have been in for more than two years with Justin Trudeau’s Liberals.
I have been flooded with calls, messages, letters, emails and folks stopping me on the street to ask if there will finally be the much-anticipated election.
As Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has said, that depends on whether the NDP will “put up or shut up.” Only hours after Pierre challenged the NDP Leader, Singh made it clear that all the bravado of tearing up the agreement meant nothing by saying he wouldn’t force an election.
It has become clear, coalition or not, the Liberals and the NDP have proven that all they care about is themselves, their close friends and their pensions. The left-leaning ideologues who make up the government and those who support it, broke the deal that the Government of Canada had with Canadians, regardless of the party in power.
It used to be, if you worked hard in Canada, you could buy a home, raise a family, have a secure retirement and a good life. But for most Canadians today, those dreams seem less like something to aspire to and more like a pipe dream which is out of reach.
The NDP has continually supported policies, like the carbon tax, which has driven up the cost of everything. They’ve supported anti-energy and anti-development policies which have destroyed investor confidence, inflationary spending which has pushed even the basic necessities out of reach for many, tax hikes which punish hard work, censorship which demonizes free speech, attacks on our fundamental freedoms, corruption which has eroded the trust of our institutions, and soft-on-crime policies that are leading to chaos in our streets.
Canadians are suffering the consequences of the carbon tax which was designed to raise the prices of everything. With the rising cost to heat one’s home, driving to work, basic grocery necessities, and everything across the economy, far too many Canadians just can’t make ends meet. And now we have the NDP saying they have “torn up the agreement” with the Liberals but refuse to actually oppose them in any way other than words. Most recently, they even claimed that they would now oppose the carbon tax despite having voted in favour of it 24 times in the past.
Nearly everyone I hear from wants a carbon tax election. The costly coalition of the NDP aligning with the Liberals over the last two years has hurt too many and while they may not officially be joined now, it’s clear that they are still on the same page. Not one person voted for a coalition, and Canadians are ready for a change.
As Parliament returns, Conservatives will force a confidence vote so Canadians can choose our future path. That’s the plan from now to the next election, and then the work will begin to get our country back on track under a government that works for the people. People are asking what Poilievre and common sense Conservatives are offering…it’s simple. We will be a government that will reward hard work, cut taxes, restore trust in our institutions, spend responsibly, and fight corruption. It’s time to get to work. Common sense Conservatives will axe the tax, which will help build the homes, fix the budget and stop the crime.
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 403-5755625, or email 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.
Soccer Vikings bit by Rattlers
By Murray Green
A new season of sports has arrived at the University of Alberta Augustana Campus for the 2024-25 Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference season.
Soccer
The women’s Vikings team lost 3-0 to the Medicine Hat Rattlers on September 21.
Augustana recorded four shots on goal, while Vikings goalkeeper Alex MacDonald made seven saves on 10 shots.
Augustana also lost 6-1 to the SAIT Trojans with Courtney Kirchner netting the only tally for the Vikings, while MacDonald stopped 17 of 23 shots on goal.
The Vikings host Red Deer at 1 p.m. on October 5 in its next home game.
Cross-country
The Vikings crosscountry running team is preparing for the fifth event of the series on October 12 in Camrose at noon.
In Lethbridge, Chloe Funnell led the Vikings by crossing the line in 15th place on the women’s side, September 21. Teammate Effie Lockhart placed 24th in the six kilometre race.
On the men’s side, Nicholas Taylor led the Vikings by finishing in 12th place, while Ewan Schel-
lenberg followed close in the number 15 spot.
In Grande Prairie the week before, Lara Birkell led the women’s squad in 11th place, while Taylor led the Vikings in sixth place.
Schellenberg came in ninth, Kunlin Ye was 12th and James Saly was 17th in the event.
The ACAC championships will be held on October 26 at St. Mary’s in Calgary.
Hockey
The Vikings shut out the Portage Voyageurs 3-0 in exhibition play, September 20. The next night, Augustana doubled Portage 6-3.
In the rematch, Leyton Smith scored on the power play to give the Vikings a 1-0 lead in the first period. Five tallies were scored in the middle frame with Jacob Biensch and Brayden Koch counting the markers for Augustana.
It was all Vikings in the third period as Biensch, Jordan Bechtold and Lane Kirk scored for the home team.
Goalie Zach Willms stopped 32 of 35 shots for the Augustana win. The Vikings recorded 24 shots on goal.
Augustana hosts SAIT in a two-game series on
October 4 and 5 with start times of 7 and 2 p.m.
Augustana hosts the Briercrest Clippers on October 25 at 7 p.m. in the regular season home opener. The next day they play a rematch at 2 p.m.
Volleyball
The women’s Vikings beat King’s Eagles 3-1, won over Keyano 3-2, beat Assiniboine 3-1, won 3-1 over Olds and lost 3-0 to Lakeland in exhibition play on September 21 and 22.
The men’s team beat Canadian Mennonite University 3-1, lost to Olds 3-1, won 3-1 over Lakeland and lost 3-0 to Lakeland on September 21 and 22.
They play at Lakeland on October 25 prior to its home opener on October 26. The home opener is at 6 p.m. for the women’s team and 8 p.m. for the men’s squad.
Basketball
Augustana hosts Lakeland Rustlers in the home opener on October 25 at 6 and 8 p.m. Both teams play at Lakeland on October 26.
Curling
The Vikings host the first bonspiel tournament at the Rose City Curling Club on November 22 to 24.
Teams will be playing in women’s, men’s and mixed categories.
Centra Cam celebrates another busy year
By Adan Shaikh
Centra Cam Vocational Training Association held its annual general meeting on September 25, when members gathered to reflect on a year marked by transitions, progress, new beginnings and good-byes. President Doug Macdonald welcomed attendees and highlighted the challenges and opportunities of the past year. “We support each other, we support our clients, we support small businesses, we support socioeconomic to the end, that is just who we are,” said Doug. As we moved on to reports it was noted that Centra Cam has experienced a wave of retirements and farewells as well, “We said goodbye to four long time members from both vocational and social enterprise divisions. This year was also tinged with sadness as we lost a member from the wood shop and a long-term board member,” shared Wally Wrubleski, first vice-president of the board. A memorial plaque was unveiled in honour of Dave Chamberlain, who passed away earlier this year, “There are no words that can adequately sum up his contributions, he sat on the board for 26 years, was the president of the board in all it’s doings
tion, it was used to help us develop a record retention schedule and file plan to deal with our overflowing file storage,” shared Rob Hauser, member of the board of directors. “When we take a look at Centra Cam itself, it’s such an integral part of our community, the work that is done in the association itself is so vital to the community as a whole and without our clients our Centra Cam family would not exist,” commented Hauser. “I’ve been in business for over 33 years and I have employed a Centra Cam client in every one of those years and I was recently asked ‘why would I employ a Centra Cam client?’ It is because I see the gratification the employee experiences, he or she now has a purpose and they have a reason to get up every day and come to work,” Hauser continued.
Succession planning also emerged as a central theme, reflecting the organization’s goal of ensuring smooth transitions in leadership and operations. Liz Rolf, board member in charge of the programming report shared how the past year has been incredibly busy for Centra Cam. “Currently we have 99 clients involved in our programs.
June, Centra Cam successfully completed its Complex Needs Designation, securing the accreditation for another three years. Additionally, in March, the organization negotiated and signed a new three-year PDD (Persons with Developmental Disabilities) contract. The organization has also increased training opportunities for its staff, continuing to focus on improving client services and staff development.
for a quarter of a century,” mentioned Macdonald. Business Development and Long Range Planning Report highlighted that this past year Centra Cam focused on creating a comprehensive planning document that outlines risk management plans, quality assurance checks, performance management insights, and strategies for the future. “We are fortunate to receive a federal grant from the Community Service Recovery Fund in conjunction with Battle River Community Founda-
43 clients are working at paid employment sites, our placement assistant continues to look for job opportunities within the community, this past year she has found two new job opportunities. We are volunteering at 29 placements within the community and we continue to look for new ways to give back to this community,” shared Rolf. The association welcomed 12 new clients into its services, and the summer was packed with tours and intakes of potential new clients. Rolf also announced that in
Dean Inman delivered the fund raising report, underlining a successful bottle drive that raised $700 in just two days. Centra Cam also received three grants from the Battle River Community Foundation. These funds were used to purchase scanners and provide support to their Odd Job Squad, enabling the purchase of electric lawn mowers, batteries, and shovels for the program. Additionally, the board expressed deep gratitude to Camrose businesses, organizations, and the broader community for helping them raise over $336,000 throughout the year, funds that will significantly impact their programs and services. As Centra Cam reflects on a year of growth and transition, the organization remains dedicated to its mission of providing valuable vocational training and support services to individuals in the Camrose community. Members elected for the board of 2024-25 are president Macdonald, first vice-president Wrubleski, second vice-president Kevin Gurr, treasurer Cameron Lewis, secretary Rolf, and members Hauser, Inman, Brian Francoeur, Darren McDermott and Mark Barrett.
The meeting ended with a recognition ceremony where the board thanked and awarded each volunteer for their service.
Executive director Tracy Culbert presented and honoured president Macdonald with the award for Volunteer of the Year. Although the team members of this organization do not care about the accolades, they have worked very hard and
have a very meaningful impact on our community and they deserve the recognition they received at this year’s AGM. With new clients, fresh initiatives, and strategic planning in place, the future looks bright for this vital organization.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Centre Cam board of directors for 2024-25, back row left, Mark Barrett, Rob Hauser, Dean Inman, Travis Lewis, and Wally Wrubleski. Front row from left, Liz Rolf, Doug Macdonald, Tracy Culbert and Brian Francoeur. Members Kevin Gurr and Darren McDermott were unable to attend the meeting.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Executive director Tracy Culbert, presented the Volunteer of the Year award to president Doug Macdonald for his outstanding service to Centre Cam.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
A plaque was unveiled in the memory of Dave Chamberlain, who was an integral part of the Centra Cam board. He had attended a board meeting the night before his passing. This plaque will be installed in the Centra Cam building to honour his memory.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Volunteers received awards for their years of dedication and efforts.
Trojans back on the field
By Murray Green
The École Camrose Composite High School (ÉCCHS) Trojans are ready for a good year on the field, court and gym in 2024-25.
“Our football team is back playing 12-man football. Lots of key players are back this year from their championship a season ago. They also have a lot of young players on the team, which is great for the future,” said athletic director Graeme Thain.
They have four more regular season games to qualify for playoffs. The next home action is on October 11 when they host Notre Dame from Red Deer.
Golf
“We sent six golfers to zones at the Alberta Springs course down by Red Deer on September 16th, it turned out to be a great day for golf. Our boys’ team finished third overall, just out of provincial qualification. Ethan Allen shot a great round earning an individual berth to provincials in Grande Prairie on September 23rd and 24th,” said Thain.
During the two-day competition he was able to keep pace with the front runners, eventually finishing in the top half.
Volleyball
September is a busy month for volleyball, ÉCCHS has six teams competing. “Our Grade 9 girls’ and boys’, junior volleyball and senior volleyball teams have all had their first regular season games and each team has competed in at least one tournament. Some of the September highlights include our Grade 9 boys winning their home tournament while, the junior girls have started their season 2-0. Both senior volleyball teams won the consolation side of the SCA tournament in Sherwood Park. October is just as busy with volleyball. Our junior teams host their home tournament October 4th and 5th, with all six teams travelling for both league and away tournaments.”
Cross-country
The cross-country running season is well underway. “We’ve had some really good results over the first few races. On October 9th, we have the opportunity to host our zone championship out at our challenging biathlon range trails.”
Correction
The Jack Stuart School playground fundraising story in the September 10 issue of The Booster should have read, “If you want to donate, email jackstuart parentadvisory@gmail.com Tax receipts are available for larger donations.”
Shirley Catherine Winter (Niehaus)
Shirley Catherine Winter (Niehaus) was born on July 21, 1936, in Heisler, Alberta, with her grandmother assisting her birth. She was the third daughter of Matt and Francis Niehaus.
Spending her years growing up in Heisler, she was involved in many different adventures. At the age of 13, she began playing in a band and, for many years, rolled those keys on that piano. She also could play guitar, drums, keyboard and later the accordion, but she preferred the piano. She played over 50 New Year’s dances and many more years and days of playing. She volunteered and played in many seniors’ homes and for dances and enjoyed every moment of this time making people happy. She loved to see the smiles on their faces.
Shirley moved to Camrose and worked for Shillington Shoe Store for a few years and then decided to go to hair dressing school. After completing her schooling, she opened a shop in her parents’ basement, doing a great job on many people’s hair and making them happy.
In April 1980, she married John Winter. They spent 26 years between Bashaw and Camrose farming before John passed away. After a few years, she moved to a condo, then for health reasons to Rosealta and later to Seasons. After a fall on September 15, 2024, Shirley succumbed to her injury and on September 21, 2024, she passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital at the age of 88 years.
Shirley is survived by her sisters Adeline Kuefler, Mary Steinbach and Marlene (Wilf) Buelow; brother Lorne (Marg) Niehaus; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
She was predeceased by her husband John; parents Matt and Francis Niehaus; sister Joyce George; brothers-in-law Lloyd George, Fred Kuefler, Jim Cunningham and Pete Steinbach; nephew Gerald Kuefler; and niece Betty Saruga.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church, Camrose, Alberta, with Rev. Kris Schmidt as celebrant. Interment followed at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church cemetery north of Bashaw.
Memorial donations may be made to the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Cemetery or to the St. Francis Xavier Parish Building Fund.
Marion Esther Pawlivsky
December 7, 1939 ~ September 18, 2024
Marion Esther Pawlivsky of Camrose, AB, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2024, at the age of 84, after a full life of love, family and friends.
Marion was born in Birsay, SK, and grew up on the family farm near Lucky Lake, where many fond memories were made. She attended elementary school at Rock Point, and her senior years were spent at LCBI (Lutheran Collegiate Bible Institute) in Outlook. After graduating from Teachers’ College in Saskatoon in 1959, she returned to her roots and spent her first year as an elementary school teacher in Birsay, followed by two years in Outlook.
In 1962, Marion and two close teacher friends embarked on an adventure to Inuvik, north of the Arctic Circle. There, she met her future husband Phillips (Phil), who was working as a radio operator. Together, they enjoyed reindeer sled rides, sports and recreation activities such as softball, curling and badminton (Phil was first smitten by Marion on those courts!), community events and gatherings with others who made the same trek up north, and lots of fun and laughter during those long, dark wintry days.
Marion enjoyed Inuit arts and culture, and remarked on the children’s natural talent for artwork, such as animal carvings and paintings. A mom of one of the students, as a way of saying thank you for her teaching efforts, presented her with a traditional Inuit parka.
Marion and Phil married on December 12, 1964, in Saskatoon, during a winter storm, and travelled to Barbados, where they enjoyed their honeymoon in the sun. They spent their first two years of marriage in Watson Lake, Yukon. Phil was then transferred to Grande Prairie, where he worked as an electronics technician at the airport.
They raised three children, made lifelong friends on 85th Avenue, and spent a large part of their time golfing, curling, camping and travelling. Marion grew a big, beautiful garden, with saskatoons and raspberries and her favourite flowers. She was well known for her amazing homemade pies!
Marion had a brilliant and rewarding teaching career at Swanavon School in Grande Prairie for almost 30 years, where she thoroughly enjoyed her colleagues and the school staff. She was involved in numerous provincial education committees, served as president of an early childhood council, received the Excellence in Teaching Award by the Minister of Education, and was honoured with a Lifetime Membership from the Alberta Teachers’ Association.
Marion’s love of kids and the classroom continued even after retiring to Camrose. She became a substitute teacher for the Battle River and Elk Island School Districts, including two contracts at Chester Ronning and Jack Stuart Schools. She made friends with other teachers easily with her boisterous laughter, and made every child she taught feel special.
Perhaps it is the parents and former students themselves who can best articulate what Marion meant to the teaching profession. They tell the stories about how Marion’s patience, kindness and humour helped them succeed in the classroom and beyond. Marion applied this same approach to all areas of her life, from her friends to her family – and she will forever be cherished and loved.
Marion is survived by her husband Phillips (Phil) of 59 years; her children, daughter Taryn and sons Marvin (Jocelyn) and Derek; three grandchildren Miles, Garrett and Owen; three sisters Martha Tastad, Wilma (Roy) Fielden and Alice (Rick) Dare; and brothers Arvo (Brenda) Kemppainen and Norman (Eleanor) Kemppainen. She was predeceased by her parents Waino and Emmi Kemppainen; her oldest brother Harvey (Barb); and youngest brother Toivo Kemppainen.
Respecting Marion’s wishes, there will not be a funeral service; however, there will be a family and friends gathering at a later date. Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or a charity of your choice.
Gloria Jean Aberle
March 14, 1946 ~ September 15, 2024
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gloria Jean Aberle, who left us peacefully at St. Mary’s Hospital in Camrose, Alberta, on September 15, 2024, at 11:55 a.m., surrounded by her loving family. Gloria’s strength and determination allowed her to wait until each of her children had the chance to say their goodbyes, bringing her peace in her final moments.
Born on March 14, 1946, in Camrose, to Henry and Reiba Anonson (nee Forsyth), Gloria was the second of three children. She spent her life filled with love, laughter and courage. Gloria leaves behind her children Wendel, Matthew, Derek (Karla) and Melanie (Colin); ten grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; her dear sister Cheryl; niece Leta (Remo) and family; as well as many close friends, including Sandra, Helga and Donna. She was predeceased by her parents; her brother; niece Tina Stengowitz; and nephew Devon Grundberg.
Gloria lived a life full of adventure and resilience. Her journey took her through various phases: motherhood on the farm, small business owner, manager of a bingo hall, and manager at Walmart. Though she lived in many cities across Alberta, the charm and community spirit of her hometown of Camrose always drew her back.
Known for her playful sense of humour and warm personality, Gloria had a unique ability to bring people together. She loved to play tricks on her grandchildren, and had a knack for negotiating and charming her way into deals, especially when she gave you ‘those eyes’. Her presence lit up every room, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the incredible staff at Pine and Spruce in Bethany Meadows and St. Mary’s Hospital for their compassionate care.
A celebration of Gloria’s life will be held at Masonic Hall (5021-48 Street, Camrose, AB) on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. Please RSVP to glorialifecelebration@gmail.com if possible.
A memorial plaque in Gloria’s name is being placed on a bench in a beautiful peaceful place in Stoney Creek Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gloria’s name to the Canadian Liver Foundation, Alberta Chapter.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com
Phone 780-672-2121
“Dedicated service since 1906”
Theresa Marie Panas
September 20, 1946 ~ September 24, 2024
Theresa Marie Panas of Edmonton, Alberta, formerly of Camrose, AB, passed away on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at the age of 78 years.
A Funeral Mass was held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church, officiated by Father Roger Rouleau.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com
Phone 780-672-2121
“Dedicated service since 1906”
Dalas Kosinski Of
Staff: Donell Nycholat, Debbie Breker, Hannah Knopf Funeral Attendants: Bill Schafer, Alvin Koehli, Barrie Fenby, Robert Lyslo, Wanita Toews, Kerry Grettum, Loya Steinwandt,
Mildred Irene Rokos
December 10, 1932 ~ September 22, 2024
Mildred Irene (Henderson) Rokos passed away on September 22, 2024, in Camrose, AB, at the age of 91 years. She was born on December 10, 1932, to Andrew and Winnifred (Walker) Henderson and spent her adult life in Ryley, AB, until 2022.
She is survived by her children Bobby (Valeria) Dueck, Val Ruff, Rick (Judy) Dueck, Diane (Wayne) Brown, Tim (Deborah) Rokos and Neil (Carol) Rokos; two sons-in-law Garry Stone and Graham van Adrichem; twenty-one grandchildren; forty-four great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by one sister Jean.
Mildred was predeceased by her loving husband Robert Rokos in 2007, and her first husband William Dueck in 1956; her daughters Cindi and Lorna; her grandson Nicholas; and three sisters Evelyn, Mary and Betty-Ann.
Mildred was a special woman. She had a strong work ethic and was generous and kind while also having strong opinions. She was a devoted grandmother, watching many sports events over the years. She loved visiting with her friends and enjoyed the years she had with her husband Robert. Together, they spent time camping, dancing, playing cards, walking, floor curling, playing seniors’ games and many more.
The family will hold a memorial service at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Ryley Community Hall.
Memorial donations can be made to Beaver Heritage & Agricultural Society (Ryley Swimming Pool, Ryley, AB).
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com
Phone 780-672-2121
“Dedicated service since 1906”
Helpful Tips for Writing Classified Ads Which Get Results!
Be
Steer
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.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
CAMROSE UKRAINIAN
CATHOLIC CHURCH –Thanksgiving Sale to be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 9 a.m. to noon at “The Little White Church by the Lake” 5304-48A Avenue. Perogies, cabbage rolls and borscht for sale. Sponsored by Camrose Ukrainian Catholic Church and UCWLC.
LADIES’ AUXILIARY
FALL TEA – Wednesday, October 9, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Royal Canadian Legion Hall. Admission $5.00.
ROUND HILL AG SOCIETY – ANNUAL CHICKEN
SUPPER! Sunday, October 20, 4-7 p.m. Adults, $25; children 6-12, $10; 5 and under, free; take out plate, $20.
THE CAMROSE DANCE CLUB DANCE will be held again October 5 from 1-5 p.m. Located at Mirror Lake Centre, 5415-49 Avenue, Camrose. The admission is $15 each and includes lunch. The band for this dance is TIMELESS MUSIC. Please come and join us for a great time. For more information, please call Neil Leeson 780-672-9549 or Sherry Tovell 780-916-8968.
PERSONAL
LOST THAT LOVING FEELING? Find it with a personal ad in The Camrose Booster classifieds. Ph. 780-672-3142.
HELP WANTED
CAREGIVER REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY – for adult. This is a part-time position. Please send applications to Glen Lawes at grlawes@cable-lynx. net or mail 4214-58 Street Close, Camrose, AB T4V 2R7.
EMPLOYMENT WANTED
2ND BEST PAINTER IN TOWN – 30 years’ experience for all your painting needs. Call Rick the Painter, 780-781-6305.
SERVICES
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.
J.D.’s SMALL ENGINE REPAIR, SALES & SERVICE – Ph. 780-672-7649.
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 (2023) 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
STORAGE FOR RVs Etc.
– on gravel pad in Camrose $30/ mo. Phone 780-608-3111 or 780608-3344.
FOR RENT
FOR RENT ADS NOW UPLOADED TO The Camrose Booster Website DAILY!
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.
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. $2160/mo., triple net. Clean, dry storage space in basement also available. Available immediately. Call Blain or Don at 780-6723142, the fairest, most reasonable people in the business.
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 780-233-0224 for more info or to set up a viewing.
ESPECIALLY NICE OFFICE SUITE
Generous 794 sq. ft. suite, suitable for three or more staff. Includes two private offices. Ground floor, easily accessible. Modern building in downtown Camrose. Bright, quiet, air conditioned. $1206.22/mo., plus share of operating expenses. Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, 780-672-3142 days, two of the fairest, most reasonable fellows in the business.
EXTRA LARGE SECOND FLOOR OFFICE – on Main Street, Camrose. 340 sq. ft. former broadcast studio, super quiet. Very well-kept property. Quiet, considerate neighbours. $468.63/ mo., including utilities. Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, 780-672-3142 days. Two of the fairest, most reasonable fellows in the business.
COZY SECOND FLOOR OFFICE WITH WINDOW FOR SUNLIGHT AND FRESH AIR
Main Street Camrose location. 132 sq. ft., extremely quiet building. Fully wired for telephone and internet. $181.94/mo. plus GST. Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, 780-672-3142, two of the most reasonable fellows in the business.
CHOOSE YOUR NEW OFFICE
Selection of very nice street level offices in newer airconditioned building in Downtown Camrose
* Single offices from $224.08 per month
* Quiet, considerate neighbours
* Easy access
* Lots of parking for customers
* Energized parking for tenants
* Immediate occupancy
* Come and have a look! Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, 780-672-3142 days, the fairest, most reasonable fellows in the business!
PRIME DOWNTOWN
SPACE – 4917-50 Street. Second floor with reception area, lunch room and two private rooms. Elevator. $900/mo. includes utilities. 780-679-5085.
MAIN STREET RETAIL
SPACE – At best crosswalk location. Excellent, affordable multi-use space. Have a look! Reception area, office, spacious work area. Lots of cupboards and sink. Only $800/mo. includes all utilities. Immediate possession. For quick showing 780-679-2170.
HOUSEHOLD
MACHINERY
TWO FLEXI-COIL HARROW DRAWBARS – one 50 ft., one 70 ft. Reasonable offers. 780-385-8297.
SWATHER NO LONGER ‘CUTTING THE MUSTARD?’ Call The Camrose Booster Classifieds, 780-672-3142.
MISCELLANEOUS
EXERCISE BIKE – offers. 403-578-8038.
DEWALT 1/2” DRILL DRIVER – 18 volt, no battery, like new. Asking $55 obo. Phone 780-381-8756.
AUTO
1992 DODGE 350 1-TON – Cummins motor, hoist. Good tires all around. New 5-speed transmission. 780-678-1847.
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
2004 DAMON INTRUDER – 36 ft. motorhome. Chev chassis, 8100 Workhorse motor, Allison transmission, Two slides, many extras on unit. No pets or smokers. Low kms, one owner, excellent condition. 780-679-7663, Camrose area.
SELLING YOUR SEAWORTHY BOAT? Make a splash with an ad in the Booster classifieds! 780-672-3142.
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. 780-672-3142.
Position:
Chief Administrative
Officer (CAO), Full Time
Closing Date:
Thursday, October 31, 2024
Organization:
The Village of Hay Lakes
Position Over view:
As the CAO, you will lead a dedicated team, manage municipal operations and help guide the community towards a prosperous and successful future. The successful candidate will be responsible for advising the Council on legislative matters, implementing all of Council’s policies and decisions and work closely with the community to achieve the strategic goals set by Council.
For a full job description and quali cations, please visit our website: w ww villageofhaylakes.com, under “job postings.”
Applications:
Kindly send your resumé and cover letter to Councillor Paige Berkholt z at: berkholt z@villageofhaylakes.com before end of business day on Thursday, October 31, 2024. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only individuals selected for interviews will be contacted.
Location:
ACSRC and Special Initiatives Coordinator
This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person work at the Augustana campus in the city of Camrose, Alberta.
Position:
Reporting to the Director of the Alberta Centre for Sustainable Rural Communities (ACSRC), the ACSRC Coordinator is responsible for administering ACSRC activities, creating and implementing project plans, event coordination, communications and community outreach, fostering and maintaining successful and collaborative internal and external partnerships, and responding to the objectives and strategic priorities of the ACSRC.
Duties:
• Provides administrative support for the Director and activities of the ACSRC
• Works with the Director to coordinate projects and events, including booking venues and catering, preparing funding and sponsorship requests, arranging travel and accommodation, setting up and monitoring event registrations, and all other related coordination duties
• Participates in communications planning and related initiatives for the ACSRC including newsletter drafting, social media strategy, ACSRC website updates, annual reporting, and creation of marketing collateral
If interested, please apply: https://apptrkr.com/5648537
FA RM LA ND FOR SA LE BY TENDER
Tenders for the pu rchase of la nd in Flagstaff County as described below are invited. La nd will be sold subj ect to all existing reservations and exceptions stated on Certif icates of Title. LI NC: 0013 990 049
MERI DI AN 4 RA NGE 15 TOWNSH IP 40 SECT ION 36
QUARTER SOUT H WEST
EXCEPTING THER EOUT ALL MINES AN D MINERALS AR EA: 64.7 HECTAR ES (160 ACRES) MORE OR LESS
The la nd has been cropped in 2024 and previous years. There are no buildings or bi ns of any value. There are approximately 14 0 cultivated acres and approximately 20 acres of past ure. Access road, wellsite rental has been paying $1,150.0 0 an nually 2024 payment has been paid and will not be adjusted
Tenders are to be subm itted in sealed envelopes ma rked
“MCNABB GRYMALOSKI Tender”, to Scott Fa rn ha m at Fa rn ha m West Stolee Kambeitz LLP, Ba rr isters and Solicitors, 5016 -52 St reet, Camrose, Alberta T4V 1V7, on or before 12:0 0 noon, October 22 , 2024 , and shall be accompanied with GST number and a certif ied cheque or ba nk draft payable to Fa rn ha m West Stolee Kambeitz LLP in tr ust for 5% of the tender pr ice. No conditiona l tenders will be accepted and the highest, or any tender, will not necessar ily be accepted
Tenders will not be opened in public The deposits of all unsuccessf ul tenderer s will be returned to them by regula r mail
The successf ul tenderer will be obligated to complete the pu rchase on or before November 25, 2024 The 5% deposit shall constitute a deposit towa rds the pu rchase price. Ta xes will be adjusted on closing date There will be no ot her adjust ments. If the successf ul tenderer fa ils to complete the transaction by the closing date, the deposit will be forfeited.
Vendor ma kes no wa rranties or representations about the proper ty’s size, condition or envi ronmental st ate.
The pu rchase and sale shall proceed utilizing title insu ra nce including “GAP ” coverage The cost of title insu ra nce shall be borne by the Pu rchaser.
Tenders are ir revocable and shall remain open until dealt with by the offices of Fa rn ha m West Stolee Kambeitz LLP. For further information or to view the proper ty, please contact Brenda Gr ymaloski at 780- 678- 4553
Th is Tender may also be viewed on the Fa rn ha m West Stolee Ka mbeitz LLP website: www.fwsllp.ca
Comedy in store return department
By Murray Green
The Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre has a great line-up still to come this season.
God is a Scottish Drag Queen is a comedy act loosely based on the Bible. It is a two-act comedy of biblical proportions from everything from Noah’s Ark to Star Wars. Catch this adult show on Thursday, October 3, at 7:30 p.m.
“The premise is that this big hairy guy in a Scottish dress is commenting on humanity and how we have done. It is really funny and if you are a Christian, you are going to find this even funnier. There are biblical references in the show, but doesn’t get to a place that would be offensive to a Christian,” said Lougheed manager Nick Beach.
Enjoy the family series of circus theatre production for younger audiences entitled Returns Department It will be featured on stage on Saturday, October 5, at 2 p.m.
“The first show is a bit of a circus. Think of the crazy returns department at Amazon. Just a fun crazy show,” said Nick.
This is a free community event, but you must have a ticket to get in.
FA RM LA ND FOR SA LE BY TENDER
The owners hereby offer the following pa rcel of la nd lo cated in Camrose County, for sale by tender, subject to the existing reservations on title:
ALL TH AT PORT ION OF TH E SOUT H WE ST QUARTER OF SECT ION TEN (10)
TOWNSH IP FORT Y TWO (42) RA NGE TW EN TY ON E (21) WE ST OF TH E FOURTH MERI DI AN NOT COVERED BY TH E WATERS OF LA KE NO. 23
EXCEPTING THER EOUT ALL MINE S AN D MINERA LS
There are approximately 98 arable acres and 30 acres of past ure. The la nd cu rrently has gas well lease revenue of more than $3, 000.0 0 per year
Tenders are to be subm itted in sealed envelopes ma rked “Bagda n Tender” to Stephen Kambeitz at Fa rn ha m West Stolee Kambeitz LLP, Ba rr isters & Solicitors, 5016 -52 St reet, Camrose, Alberta T4V 1V7, on or before 12:0 0 noon, November 25, 2024 , and shall be accompanied with a GST number and a cheque payable to Fa rn ha m West Stolee Kambeitz LLP in tr ust for $20, 000.0 0. No conditiona l tenders will be accepted and the highest, or any tender, will not necessar ily be accepted
Tenders will not be opened in public The deposits of all unsuccessf ul tenderer s will be returned to them by mail
The successf ul tenderer shall be obligated to complete the pu rchase on or before December 20, 2024 The deposit shall constitute a deposit towa rds the pu rchase price. Should the successf ul tenderer fail to complete the transaction by the closing date, thei r deposit will be forfeited.
For further information, pl ease contact Stephen Kambeitz at Fa rn ha m West Stolee Kambeitz LLP at 780- 679-0444
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CL AIMANTS
Estate of K AREN ANNE LORR AINE APPLEBY, who died on September 4, 2024.
If you have a claim against this estate, you must f ile your claim by November 8, 2024, and provide details of your claim with MARG ARE T WEIR ANDRE ASSEN at Andreassen Bor th, Barristers & Solicitors, #200, 4870-51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1.
If you do not f ile by the date above, the estate proper ty can law fully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have
Bruins win first contest
Join the Home
am INSIDE SALES/ESTIMATOR –
SMALL PACKAGES
Do you enjoy working with the public?
Do you have construction experience?
Come build your career with us!
Hauser Home Hardware Building Centre is looking for an outgoing individual who is interested in a career in the Hardware/Lumber industry
We are an ever-growing, ever-chan ging company dedicated to both our team and customers.
This is a full-time position with hours Monday – Fr iday 8:00am – 5:00pm and the occasional we ekend. Salary $40,000-$50,000/year.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The key duties and resp onsibilities of the position are:
• Complete material take-offs and estimates for residential and renovation projects
• Assist sales team with option pr icing and budget pr icing
• Ordering all products needed for each building package
• Prepare picking lists of products to be sh ipped
• Any other duties assigned by management
Skills and Qualifications:
The successful candidate must have the following skills and qualifications:
• Be very personable, outgoing, self-motivated, resp onsible, and hard working with a very high standard of customer service
• Be extremely organized with the ability to multi-task
• Must have the ability to travel and a valid driver’s licence with a clean abstract
• Be fluent in Microsoft applications
• Knowledge and understand ing of constr uction and blueprints would be an asset
If you are a qualified candidate and interested in working in a small team environment, please forward resumé to: Devan Herder LBM Manager devan@hhbccamrose.ca
Only successful applicants will be contacted.
Missed Delivery Policy
If you do not receive your copy of The Booster or pre-printed inserts, please report this to us by calling 780-672-3142. We will promptly re-deliver these to city households. Note that we do not have access to certain apartment buildings. In these cases, we ask you to contact your apartment manager to request delivery
Rural readers are asked to report missed deliveries and we will consult with your postmaster to ensure future deliveries.
Thank you for being a loyal reader of…
By Murray Green
Camrose Bruins dethroned the Morinville Kings 11-1 in North Central Hockey League preseason action in senior hockey, September 20.
The Bruins led 2-0 and 5-1 between periods before exploding on offence in the third frame.
The NCHL expanded its membership to nine teams with the addition of the Stony Plain Eagles and the Innisfail Eagles for this season. Teams will each play a home and home versus every club making for a balanced schedule, for a total of 16 games.
Unfortunately, the Red Deer Rustlers dropped out of the NCHL and all Red Deer games have been eliminated from the schedule.
The league’s two newest teams in 2023, the Wetaskiwin Longhorns and the Camrose Bruins led the league in attendance throughout last season, both averaging over 800 fans per game.
Camrose takes on Devon at home on October 4 in the Max McLean Arena at 8 p.m.
Other home games are on October 19 against the Stony Plain Eagles, November 2 against Innisfail Eagles, January 18 against Morinville Kings, January 25 against Lacombe Generals and January 31 against Wetaskiwin Longhorns.
BRCF grants school division
Submitted
The Battle River Community Foundation has awarded an $8,300 grant to the Battle River School Division #31 (BRSD) from the W.F. MacDonald Family Fund to be used to fund scholarships.
Proceeds from the W.F. MacDonald Family Fund are used to fund two scholarships: one, a scholarship for a student entering a recognized post-secondary university program and the other, for a student entering a recognized post-secondary technical program. Eligible students will have graduated from high schools in Bawlf, Bashaw, Daysland, New Norway, or from École Camrose Composite High School if living in Camrose or Camrose County.
Mr. Fred MacDonald
was a small town store owner in Rosalind with a deep belief in the importance of education. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Rosalind school and served extensively on the school board.
Although Mr. MacDonald passed on in 1974, followed by his wife Margaret in 1990, a scholarship fund at the Battle River Community Foundation has allowed his love of education to live on in perpetuity.
According to son Gordon, “Our dad was always very involved in education and believed in continuing on with schooling after high school. It doesn’t matter if it’s university or trades, taking those courses requires money for tuition, books and living expenses. We want to help with that.”
By Murray Green
This 2003-built mobile home offers affordable living at its best. The home offers a wider layout to make the living area an open concept.
You will love the counter space and all of the cabinets. The master has a walk-in closet and a four-piece en suite for convenience.
The handy eat-in kitchen, lovely living room and laundry area are some of the highlights of this 1,216-square foot home.
There are two more bedrooms and another four-piece bath for some of the family to be able to get ready comfortably for the day.
The Battle River Community Foundation exists to support organizations in east central Alberta that benefit the local communities and positively impact the future.
Grants from the Battle River Community Foundation are primarily made possible through the generosity of individual donors and organizations that have created endowment funds. The principal of these endowment funds is kept intact and the income is made available annually to support local projects and organizations.
Since it was founded in 1995, the Battle River Community Foundation has granted over $9,308,006 to support charitable activities in the Battle River Region.
Included are a dishwasher, electric range, refrigerator and stacked washer/dryer.
The roof was shingled in 2022, the hot water tank was replaced in 2021, and the fridge was replaced this year.
This home is move-in ready for you to say welcome home after a good day at work. It is located within the Camrose Mobile Home Park.
View this home at #47, 4802-54 Avenue It is priced at $109,900, and is just waiting for you.
For a private viewing, contact Mark or Wally at:
Baby Talk
Grandparents: " Why would you get a tattoo? They 're expensive and painful to get and they are PERMANENT!"
Also Grandparents: "Have a baby!"
Pregnanc y is prett y much the same as a group project in high school. One person does all the work and heavy li fting, while the other shows up 15 minutes late with his co ee and just takes the "A".
Nine months isn' t really that long
But to some, it can feel like a maternit y.
Husband [calling the doctor]:
"My wife is going into labour! What should I do?"
Doctor : "Is this her first child?"
Husband : No, this is her husband."
Yesterday, my wife completed a 36-week body building program.
Nurse [walking into the hospital room]:
"And how are you feeling this morning?"
Me : "It was a little rough sleeping here last night , but I made it through."
My wife: " She was talking to me I was the one who had the baby."
Postpar tum Mom: [Sleep deprived, whole body in pain, hormone spiked, covered in bodily f luids, questioning her sanity.]
Social Media: "Cherish ever y moment , mama!"
New Mom: " Sigh, the baby's been cr ying for hours
Can you please take over?"
New Dad : " Sure." [star ts cr ying for hours]
What do you call a group of chubby newborns? Heav y infantr y.
Just saw a couple playing "Rock Paper Scissors" for who had to deal with their baby's blowout .
New Mom: "I'm so exhausted! I was up till 4 a.m. with the baby."
New Dad : "It 's probably not good to keep a baby up that late."
Why do babies cr y when they are tired?
Just go to sleep! No one is stopping you!
New Mom [holding a cr ying baby]: "He just needs to be changed."
New Dad : " Yeah, hope fully into a puppy or something quiete r."
Me, gazing wistfully at a new mom: "Don' t blink , Mama."
Her : "I know, it all goes by so fast."
Me : "No. Don' t even close your e yes for a second or else your kids will completely des troy your house."
The best thing about babies is that they have no idea what 's going on. I was holding my baby and dropped a little piece of spaghe tti on her and didn' t have a free hand to wipe if o . So I just leaned over and ate it o her head. She had no idea what I just did
People with babies are like, "I'd love to do lunch
How 's 9:4 5 a.m. sound ?"
My wife is so negative. I remembered the car seat, the stroller AND the diaper bag. Yet all she can talk abou t is how I forgot the baby.
When your kid tells you that you're embarras sing them, just remind them how ugly they were as a baby.
There's a sign taped to my front door that says, "BABY FINALLY SLEEPING. DO NOT KNOCK OR RING DOORBELL ." It's been there 11 years
Kid [whining]: "Mom, I have a paper cut ."
Mom: "Cool. You were nine pounds at birth."
I used the old "I gave bir th to you" line on my daughter and she said, " That was ONE time!"
Me [walking into the Maternity Ward with my teenagers]: "What is your return polic y ?"
Census Taker : "How many children do you have?"
Mom: "Four."
Census Taker : "May I have their names, please?"
Mom: "Eeny, Meeny, Miny and Howard."
Census Taker : "Ok ay, that's fine. Bu t may I ask why you named your four th child Howard?"
Mom: "Because I didn' t want any Moe."
Battle River Community Foundation board chair Kevin Gurr presents a cheque to BRSD assistant superintendent education services Stephen Hoyland.
Battle River School Division
Every Student, Every Day, a Success.
Community Report 2023-24
During Battle River School Division’s (BRSD) 2023-24 school year, countless memorable moments were shared throughout the division, all thanks to the diligence and hard work of BRSD students, staff and our families.
BRSD’s new superintendent, Rhae-Ann Holoien, is appreciative of many connections made throughout our schools. A positive learning adventure for an exciting first school year with BRSD is now in the books for Rhae-Ann, and her enthusiasm upon starting her role has been exceeded by her experiences with BRSD celebrations throughout 2023-24.
Rhae-Ann Holoien has experienced countless memorable moments during her first year as BRSD’s Superintendent of Schools.
“I am honoured to have witnessed the meaning behind our vision: Every Student, Every Day, a Success,” said Holoien.
“Our vision is continually exemplified in the work of students and staff throughout our division.”
To kick off the school year, a learning day was held on August 23, 2023, for administrative staff and bus drivers, and on August 29, 2023, BRSD staff members were welcomed back for a division-wide learning day, marking the first day in many years that staff joined together to celebrate the start of the new school year. The theme, Everyday Leadership and Resiliency, created impactful messaging and energy that each person was able to take forward into the 2023-24 school year.
Students were welcomed to school on Tuesday, September 5, by teachers and staff members, eager to offer inspiration to kick off students’ learning journeys. To celebrate the start of the school year, schools hosted open houses, meet the staff events and pancake breakfasts.
For 2023-24, BRSD enrolled 5,398 students from grades one through 12 and registered 414 kindergarten and pre-kindergarten students, with increased enrolment from the previous year. Over 5,800 students attended at 19 school locations, two outreach schools, and 10 colony schools. BRSD is a large employer in the area that started the school year with 114 bus drivers and 973 employees, including 351 teachers, 177 substitutes, and 331 support staff members.
Many BRSD highlights were experienced
In AUGUST, BRSD transportation department team announced that over 700 additional students would be riding buses. This significant increase was due to government revisions that decreased the distance for students to be eligible to ride the bus.
To accommodate increased ridership, while ensuring equality and efficiency, BRSD redesigned the City of Camrose transportation system and added an extra Camrose route. Additionally, in-town transportation options were introduced for eligible rural students in Daysland, Sedgewick, Killam, Tofield, Bashaw, and Viking. Bus routes were also added to accommodate Forestburg, Round Hill, and Camrose rural areas.
The implemented changes reduced average ride times and improved overall efficiency while offering a supportive experience for both students and families. The routes were designed to prioritize riders on a first on, first off basis, ensuring equal ride times for students.
BRSD Transportation also worked to provide an earlier bus registration window, from April to June, for the 2024-25 school year. This change was aimed at providing more timely notification of student bus assignments. This change also allows for better communication between families, schools, bus drivers and transportation department staff.
September 25 was a staff learning day across BRSD. Our staff participated in various learning sessions and activities. Our bus drivers gathered at Norsemen Inn to connect and engage with staff while learning.
During SEPTEMBER , BRSD commemorated National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in various ways around the division to show importance of understanding, reflection, and commemoration.
On September 29, 2023, staff and students celebrated Orange Shirt Day, serving as a symbol of our commitment to reconciliation, and to remind everyone that every child matters.
Throughout September, our classrooms and schools actively engaged in meaningful activities aimed at deepening students’ understanding of the history and lasting impacts of residential schools on Indigenous communities. Through activities, students gained deeper understanding of reconciliation and practiced critical thinking for a thoughtful approach to learning about residential schools, their impact, and their historical significance.
In the fall, students participated in volleyball, football, golf, field trips, band, the Terry Fox Run,
and cross-country running, including the 2023 Battle River XC Race Series.
On September 28, BRSD’s annual Spartan Race included a para/ unified race, and hundreds of students from kindergarten to grade 12 gathered in New Norway for an exciting day. BRSD also hosted awards celebrations to recognize students’ achievements throughout the division.
In OCTOBER , BRSD Board of Trustees held attendance boundary review discussions at École Camrose Composite High School, New Norway School, Ryley School and Daysland School. A survey followed for parents who were unable to attend. A consultant assisted in steering the review and feedback was considered throughout the year. The Board approved motions to make changes to existing division boundaries at its March 28 meeting.
To recognize Bus Safety Week from October 15 to 21, BRSD Transportation teams visited schools to educate students about bus safety practices. Bus safety is a critical, collective responsibility involving mechanics, drivers, supervisors, and our dedicated transportation department. BRSD safely transports over 3,600 students each school day. We emphasize the importance of bus safety to ensure that students are well-prepared in the event of any unexpected circumstances.
On October 30, over 2,100 enthusiastic students from BRSD and other local schools gathered at Encana Arena in Camrose on Thursday, October 26, for the annual Camrose Kodiaks Hockey Hooky game. BRSD superintendent Rhae-Ann Holoien enjoyed mingling with fans and cheering along with many BRSD students at the arena.
In NOVEMBER , BRSD Board of Trustees accepted the 2022-23 Annual Education Results Report as presented at its monthly meeting on November 28, 2023, for submission to Alberta Education. This submission is part of the Alberta government’s Assurance Framework, a process instituted for schools and school authorities to consistently assess progress and demonstrate success. Some highlights include:
● BRSD’s five-year graduation rates improved, while scoring at three per cent above its previous three-year average, additionally sitting above the provincial average.
● BRSD’s Safe and Caring and Work Preparation measures demonstrated a high rate of achievement, with 87 per cent of parents and 80 per cent of our students feeling that our schools are safe and caring.
● BRSD’s Program of Studies measure demonstrated a high rate of achievement, also showing a high rate of improvement.
● BRSD’s First Nations, Métis and Inuit students outperform in comparison to the provincial averages regarding eligibility of Rutherford Scholarship, the high school dropout rate, and the three-year completion rate.
On November 28, BRSD Board of Trustees approved its Audited Financial Statements.
BRSD’s International Student Program welcomed students from Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Spain, Thailand and Turkey. Homestay families are essential to the success of the program, and BRSD is grateful to its host families
throughout the 2023-24 school year
for making this opportunity possible. Host families are needed and BRSD offers a monthly $800 stipend.
If you are interested in hosting, please visit brsd.ab.ca or email homestay@brsd.ab.ca for information.
BRSD students experience many diverse credit opportunities.
In 2023-24, BRSD had 186 students enrolled in Work Experience across the division. Another success is the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) which supports students spending part of their time in school while working in industry as registered apprentices in one of the trades. BRSD partners with Olds College for dual credit opportunities. This allows students to gain high school credits while simultaneously obtaining post-secondary credits. The Green Certificate Program is another opportunity which provides students with access to the first level of agricultural apprenticeship.
Our Professional Learning Series consists of three dates with the first being held in November. During the second date in February, staff participated in AI in Education and Equity sessions and breakout sessions, and the final day was held on April 15.
In JANUARY, our 2024-25 school calendar was approved and released so that our families had more time to plan for the upcoming year.
In FEBRUARY, Kindergarten registration opened, and we promoted our K-12 French Immersion and Late French Immersion programming. French Immersion is open for any student interested in learning French. This opportunity offers adept language skills and bilingualism as a highly sought-after skill, deeper understanding of the Francophone world, enhanced cognitive function, and international connections.
In MARCH , BRSD celebrated International Women’s Day and remarkable achievements of women throughout our division. We also celebrated Employee Recognition Day on March 1 to express gratitude to dedicated BRSD staff members who work tirelessly to support student success in a positive learning environment. Spring Break took place from March 18 to 22, and Division Office moved to 4302-38 Street during the same week.
We also received news in March that we would receive support, a generous amount of $60,000 from Battle River Community Foundation, for the summer Reading University program. Our Reading University locations are Camrose, Tofield and virtual online morning and afternoon sessions.
We announced math, science, and physical education Tofield School teacher, Kaden Doerksen as our Edwin Parr Award nominee for 2023-24. Kaden represented our division as one of the Zone 4 nominees for 2023-24.
BRSD Board of Trustees approved the division’s capital plan on March 28 for submission to Alberta Education prior to April 1, 2024, for consideration by the Government of Alberta. BRSD prioritized four project requests for its 2025-28 plan, including
construction projects, modernization, and a partial replacement.
In APRIL , BRSD participated in Green Shirt Day on April 7 and we experienced the forecasted solar eclipse with partial visibility throughout Central Alberta the following day. We celebrated National Volunteer Week from April 14 to 20 and Education Week from April 15 to 19. Students continued to compete in sports such as badminton, curling, basketball, and track and field events.
École Charlie Killam School (ÉCKS) prepared for the upcoming school year by hosting Camrose Grade 5 students, who would be starting Grade 6 in September, through weekly Cougars Connect sessions. This opportunity was coordinated in collaboration with our Mental Health Capacity Building (MHCB) and Family School Liaison Worker (FSLW) teams.
In MAY, BRSD shared information about challenges around its 2024-25 budget. BRSD was allocated $69,734,768 from Alberta Education. This indicates a decrease from last year when we were allocated $70,243,045. Despite using $2.9 million of our reserve funds to support instruction in our schools, there was still a reduction in teachers and staff. The budget was approved at the May 23 meeting and submitted to Alberta Education by May 31, 2024.
Also at the meeting, the Board approved BRSD’s 2024-27 Education Plan. We began our planning for the three-year plan by extending an invitation to public stakeholders, with a successful tally of 298 responses.
We were grateful to review received insights and suggestions for our planning. This comprehensive plan is designed around our vision: Every Student, Every Day, a Success, and outlines three core priorities: Learning Success for All, Enhance High Quality Learning and Working Environments, and Well-Being. We encourage you to read through it by accessing it on our website.
This spring, Alberta School Boards Association presented students with 2024 Honouring Spirit: Indigenous Student Awards. Two BRSD students, Sheraina and Lucas, are two of Alberta’s 230 outstanding Indigenous students who have been acknowledged with honourable mention certificates for their contributions to school and community culture and education through sharing stories to inspire others.
BRSD congratulated our graduates as Farewell celebrations brightened the division in May and June. We could not be more proud of all students and their accomplishments. Thank you to all families for unwavering support and for your communication and collaboration, so that we are able to give students the best opportunity to reach their full potential, dreams and goals. It was an enjoyable year of building these relationships.
THANK YOU!
The CAMROSE BOOSTER,
Where is the money allocated for 2024-2025?
BRSD ensures resources are allocated in ways that best serve the needs and interests of our students. For the 2024-25 school year, BRSD has an overall budget of $83,000,957. In support of the Board’s priorities which directly impact the learning of our students, almost 72 per cent of our spending is directly on Instruction.
BRSD was allocated $69,734,768 from Alberta Education for 2024-25 operations. The Board passed the budget, using $2.9 million of our reserve funds to support staffing in our schools.
Operating and maintaining school facilities and creating positive learning environments where students and staff can comfortably spend their days, accounts for 14 per cent of budgeted spending. More than seven per cent of expenditures are budgeted to transport children to and from school each day. This includes the purchase and maintenance of school buses and the salaries and training of our bus drivers.
Just over three per cent of funding is directed to external services. This portion includes providing mental health and personal support programs for students and international promotion of our schools and programs. BRSD is proud to welcome students from across the globe, extending opportunities to enhance engagement, wellness, culture, and diversity in our schools.
The school division is permitted to allocate 3.43 per cent of its spending for Administration. The budget includes 3.29 per cent directed to administration, which includes Board costs, the Superintendent’s office, and BRSD’s Human Resources and Finance Departments.
BRSD Senior Leadership Team
Rhae-Ann Holoien, Superintendent; Natasha Wilm, Assistant Superintendent – Human Resources; Imogene Walsh, Secretary-Treasurer; Stephen Hoyland, Assistant Superintendent – Education Services
The Board of Trustees of BRSD was elected to their four-year term in the fall of 2021 and will be in place until the fall of 2025. As they mark the last full year in their term, the Board is looking forward to a great year ahead. They held their Organizational Meeting for the 2024-25 school year in June, in order to be ready to go when the new school year started in September. City of Camrose Trustee, Patrick McFeely, will serve as Board Chair for the next year, while City of Camrose Trustee, Doug Algar, will continue in the role of Vice Chair.