Much of the community was dismayed and deeply disappointed when the year-round LED lights were removed from the trees lining Main Street, Camrose, a couple of years ago. This happened immediately after the Downtown Camrose Business Association was dissolved. Thanks to recent dialogue and cooperation between the Camrose Chamber of Commerce and the City of Camrose, 50th Street, in the downtown core, is on the verge of being brightly lit up once again. Last week, Devin Bonnar, owner of Team Electrical, sent his crews out to begin the laborious task of decorating the dozens of trees, and testing hundreds of strings of lights between 48th Avenue and 51st Avenue, in time for the balance of this year’s festive season. The entire community is invited to come out on Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m., to share in the joy of an official lighting of Main Street. Additional plans for this historic milestone evening are currently in the planning stages. Watch next week’s edition of The Camrose Booster and the Camrose Now! app for more information on this much-anticipated celebration.
Photo by Ron
Pilger
SPECIAL BUYS
Christmas Lane lights up
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Many residents on Marler Drive have decorated their homes. The three best decorated dwellings on Marler Drive will have a chance to win a Christmas Lights contest unique to this area.
By Adan Shaikh
In partnership with Love Local, Camrose Christmas Association has turned Marler Drive into Christmas Lane. The homes on Marler Drive have been decorated and are lit for the festive season. It’s a good place to enjoy a stroll, take photos, and enjoy the many activities Camrose Christmas Association has planned.
The lane can be visited anytime, but some of the special events happening this month might make the visit more special. On December 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., visitors can meet Santa and
Mrs. Claus as they make appearances on Christmas Lane at 5712 Marler Drive, and families can also enjoy free horsedrawn wagon rides around the lane, which have been made possible due to generous donations made by many local businesses.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will make more appearances on December 14 and 21 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Winners for the Marler Drive Christmas Lights will be announced following Christmas. This fun contest will make Christmas in Camrose as magical as the North Pole itself.
Christmas treats
Every time I walk past a commercial Christmas cake in a grocery store, I flash back to “Christmas cake making day” when I was a child.
Every year, on a Saturday in November, we had Christmas cake making day. It was an all day production. Kids helped prepare the dried fruit–rinsing it and setting it out to air until it was completely dry. There were conversations about the balance of raisins and currants and how much peel.
Bigger kids helped prepare the pans. As I recall, the special pans were greased, then lined with brown paper and then maybe the paper was greased too.
Grown-ups were in charge of making the dark batter, mixing in the dry fruit, and filling the prepared pans. Only grown-ups were allowed to test whether the cakes were done.
Then the cakes were packed away in a cool dark basement corner to deepen the flavours. One magical day in December (only our mother knew which day the cakes were deemed to be ready), we’d bring the cakes upstairs, take apart the tins, peel off the paper, and congratulate ourselves for how wonderful they were. ***
When I see commercial Christmas cake in a grocery store, my flashback memories make me smile, but that doesn’t motivate me to go to all that work myself! In fact, I can’t remember the last time I did any home baking at all–except an annual Christmas cookie baking day with my daughter and eldest (now adult) granddaughter.
Christmas cookie baking day began when my children were small. As they grew up and left home and grandchildren began to arrive, my daughter and I continued the tradition. We’re now joined by her daughter. Every year I look forward to our three-generation Christmas cookie baking day.
One of the delights for me (though I’m not sure it lights up my daughter and granddaughter) is that we’re still using my grandmother’s shortbread cookie recipe, passed on to me by my mother. My grandmother died long before my granddaughter was born, but I love the sense of continuity of a five-generation recipe.
***
For the past several years, our baking day has happened in my granddaughter’s kitchen. It takes a bit of organizing for three people living a several-hours drive apart to make sure we have all the ingredients and equipment we need.
Last year, what with one thing and another, it turned out we were missing a few things. Ever adaptive (of course we’re adaptive, we grew up in rural Alberta!), we were able to improvise and make do.
“No rolling pin? Hmm. That’s going to make it harder to roll out the shortbread cookie dough. Well, we could just pat the dough out…or…yes a wine bottle on its side. Yes, the bigger wine bottle will be better. Perfect!
“Hah! It works! A little awkward, but functional. You weren’t going to open that wine today were you?”
“No cookie cutters? Hmm. Well, pretty boring, but we could use an upside down glass to make circle-shaped cookies…”
***
On our most recent Christmas cookie baking day, we honoured our tradition of “testing” the batter as we go. “Hmm. Butter and sugar. Yep, seems to taste okay.” “Oooh, icing. Yes, I think it will do. Well, maybe one more taste, just to be sure…”
Over the years, all three of us have moved to healthy eating, but Christmas cookie baking day is off-duty. By mid-afternoon, If we all feel a little queasy after all those gobs of sugar and raw batter, so be it.
I figure our Christmas baking day is good for the soul. My body can cope with a sugar-butter-flour day once a year. When in doubt, enjoy! Enjoyment is good for your health.
***
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.
Student funding
Alberta currently has the lowest per-student funding in Canada. This is not just an alarming statistic but a clear indication of the challenges our children, educators and future workforce face under the current system.
The recent budget decisions by this government, including those that have led to significant cuts within our school system, such as the reduction of educational assistants, are deeply troubling. These cuts have placed additional strain on teachers and students alike, making it harder for children, especially those with unique needs, to receive the quality education they deserve.
I fear that if we continue down this path, we are moving toward an outcome similar to the one seen in the United States, where the average overall reading level hovers around Grades 7 and 8. This lack of foundational literacy has undoubtedly contributed to a cycle of low-income employment and limited upward mobility for many.
These challenges raise a fundamental question: does this government truly value education as the cornerstone of our province’s success? It is hard to feel optimistic when our priorities seem misaligned with the future we want for Alberta.
Lisa Trach, Camrose
Huge success
Thank you. Operation Christmas Child was a huge success in Camrose and area again this year, with more than 1,600 shoe-
boxes sent. Thanks to everyone who helped make this possible. There’s still time to fill shoeboxes online at www.packabox.ca
Glenda Strauss, and the OCC Team
Pension plan
What are you up to Premier Smith? Even the editorial board of the New York Times is curious about what’s going on in little old Alberta.
Several direct quotes from the New York Times last week…“Without any advance notice, the government of Alberta last week fired all 10 directors on the board of its pension fund, Alberta Investment Management Corporation (AIMCo), along with its chief executive and three of his most senior employees. Then, this week, it announced that Stephen Harper, the former Conservative prime minister, would serve as the fund’s chairman.”
“In my history of being in this space, it’s unique,” Keith Ambachtsheer, emeritus director of the Torontobased International Centre for Pension Management, described the purge as “Soviet style and the change at AIMCo, which manages $161 billion Canadian, shook the pension world.”
He stated, “It’s a departure certainly in the eyes of not just Canada, but the world. The Canadian pension model has become the global standard for how you should think about these things and now we have a government that is kind of stepping outside those rules.”
“The Canadian pension model is based on the
principle that funds should be managed independently of both governments and unions and free of political interference. It calls for independent boards whose members are experienced in investments and finance.”
Ambachtsheer also believes the report commissioned by Alberta is “fundamentally flawed, further undermining the province’s case for pension separation and estimates the actual amount to be 15 per cent, not 50 per cent.”
Are these latest small, but incremental, steps part of Premier Smith’s unstated plan to move Albertans from the Canadian Pension Plan (CPP) to an Alberta Pension Plan (APP) under the control of the provincial government?
AIMCo’s chequered history continues; in recent years, they posted a loss of $4 billion as they continually fall short of their investment goals plus their investments under perform when compared to the annualized return on investment (ROI) of the CPP. PMs Chretien and Martin posted surplus budgets from 1997 thru 2006 followed by PM Harper who posted eight deficit budgets during the next 10 years that added more than $150 billion to our national debt.
I’m so old, it won’t affect my pension but…given Mr. Harper’s poor financial track record…what could possibly go wrong (for the sake of our children and grandchildren)?
Peter Lougheed and Lou Hyndman must be turning over in their graves.
Lynn Clark, Camrose
CMHA DONATION
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) received a generous donation from Camrose Energy. Receiving the donation, from left, are Gina Freeborn and Danielle Strayer from CMHA, and making the donation was Denise Hawkins from Camrose Energy. These funds will go towards keeping the CMHA welcome centre open.
Fire • Accident
Major Crime • Weather or Local News Flash Call or te xt 780.679. 7070
*If you’re first to noti fy us, and we use your aler t. Keep C amrose in your pocket!
WESTERN CHAMPS
Submitted Brad Rodin of Camrose (pictured with dad Mike) and the rest of University of Regina Rams football team won the Hardy Cup, given to the winner of the CanWest conference championship. They beat the University of Saskatoon Huskies, in Saskatoon, by a score of 19-14. They advanced to the Mitchell Bowl, national semifinal, against Laval and lost 17-14, November 16 in Regina.
RCMP play hockey for charity
By Murray Green
A charity hockey game between the Bashaw RCMP and the Camrose Vikings U18 double-A is slated for Friday, January 17, 2025 at 7 p.m. in the Bashaw Arena. All proceeds are to go to the Bashaw Community Resource Centre. There will also be a 50/50 draw and a silent auction. “We were looking into ways that we (RCMP) can be actively involved in the community and how we could raise funds for local programs, such as meal programs. For myself,
I am actively involved with my four children in hockey from U9 to U15. Public service employee, Krista Dubitz and myself presented the idea to the detachment members and employees,” said Sergeant RCMP Trent Cleveland, Bashaw detachment commander.
“So we came up with hosting a charity hockey game. In the fall, we organized a small board and started planning the game.
I reached out to the Camrose Vikings U18 double-A and they were more than
willing to participate in the hockey game. The RCMP team roster, consists of RCMP members throughout central Alberta, with a few honorary RCMP members, including the coaches from U18 double-A,” added Cleveland.
A special guest will drop the first puck prior to the game. “We are still seeking donations and sponsorships for the game to help raise funds.”
Tickets are available from the Bashaw CRC.
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through the pages of e Booster
• The Camrose Knights of Columbus Club completed an Adopt-a-Room Project at Brigantia Place, completely refinishing two bedrooms. The work crew included Lionel Hinch, Bernie Boser, Henry Podruzny, Ted Peters and John Bohach. Brigantia Place Volunteer Coordinator Donna Getschel explained, “the Adopt-a-Room program was launched to give non-profit groups an opportunity for involvement in redoing rooms at the shelter.”
• A number of local Scouters received awards at the 1999 Central Alberta Region Youth and Adult Awards Banquet and Ceremony Walter Busenius from Hay Lakes received an award for 40 years of involvement; Bob Smith from Camrose for 25 years of service; and Kay Curtis from Tofield for 20 years of service. Ken Miske from Camrose received the medal for Good Service for his efforts in organizing the 25th Anniversary Beaver Celebration held in Camrose, while Robin McKay from Donalda received the same medal for his work with the Buffalo Lake District.
• The Camrose sub-local of the Battle River Teachers’ Association presented its scholarships to: Levi McCarroll, Chris Ames, Laura Olson, Jillian Aker, Laura Dillon, Melissa McKenzie, Joan Graham, Jennifer Dunlop, Lars Andreassen and Chris Zarski.
• Herb Ross of New Norway was elected President of the Camrose Agricultural Society at the Annual Meeting. Stan Gould of Rosalind was elected 1st Vice-President while Doug Noden of Duhamel was elected 2nd Vice-President. Dr. Red Elliott is the Immediate Past President and Leon Boulter of Rosalind is the Secretary Manager
• Dan Olofson is the new President of the Camrose Golf Club. Other executive officers are Red McCormick, Vice-President; Mac McDonnell, Treasurer; and Jack Price, Secretary. Directors are Murry Whitecotton, Alex Shyba, Roy Parks, Ken MacQuarrie, Doug Fox, Ross Shuman and Doug Berg.
• After several weeks of consideration, Camrose City Council refused the proposal of the Camrose Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion to erect a high rise apartment for senior citizens on the property immediately east of the Legion Hall south of 48 Avenue. Council members were concerned about the safety of elderly residents in the event of fire. This concern was based on advice and information obtained from the Assistant Fire Commissioner of Edmonton, the Insurers Advisory Commitee and Camrose Fire Chief Alf Sunderman.
JACKIE LOVELY
100,000 NEW JOBS OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS
HIGHEST WEEKLY EARNINGS IN CANADA
ALL-TIME HERITAGE FUND RECORD $22.1 BILLION SIX CREDIT UPGRADES OVER THE PAST 18 MONTHS THREE CONSECUTIVE BALANCED BUDGETS RECORD HIGH FUNDING FOR HEALTH CARE
UPGRADING INFRASTRUCTURE AT THE BASHAW HEALTH CENTRE, ROSEHAVEN CARE CENTRE, DAYSLAND HEALTH CENTRE, GALAHAD HEALTH CENTRE, KILLAM HEALTH CENTRE, VIKING HEALTH CENTRE & TOFIELD HEALTH CENTRE REPLACED CHESTER RONNING K-6 SCHOOL & BUILDING A NEW CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL IN CAMROSE ADDED SPEECH PATHOLOGY, PHYSIOTHERAPY & OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SPACES AT AUGUSTANA UNIVERSITY & MORE!
Murray Green, Camrose Booster Santa listened to children’s orders for Christmas presents and vowed to return.
Murray Green, Camrose Booster Olaf pictured himself shopping during Midnight Madness.
Murray Green, Camrose Booster Tammy and Jeff Holbrook find new styles at Duff Layton’s Men’s Wear.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Talented musician Erik Olson provided the carollers with some tunes, warming up a very cold night with his music.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster This year’s Midnight Madness even got the Grinch in the Christmas spirit. He was spotted pretending to be Santa and contributed to the holiday cheer.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Families gathered outside The Sweeterie to go on free horse-drawn wagon rides around downtown.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Golden Bins set up a beautiful backdrop for a Christmas photo station for pets. Puppies Seeya, Kismet, Savvy and Freja got their photos taken in their best Christmas outfits.
Christmas Fund under half way
By Murray Green
The Camrose Merry Christmas Fund and Christmas Hamper Program assists those in need during the holiday season.
“Camrose and area residents and businesses have generously donated to our fundraising needs, but we are less than half-way to our $40,000 fundraising goal. The Kinettes are also seeking additional donations of toys and cash to be able to provide for the many children in need. Groceries arrive next Tuesday for our volunteer teams to pack hampers Wednesday and Thursday, to be ready for volunteer drivers to come to the fire hall on Saturday, December 21st after 9 a.m. to deliver more than 300 hampers and toys,” said Merry Christmas Fund chair Morris Henderson.
“As they do every year, our community is coming together to support the hamper program with goods, services and financial donations. More than 50 volunteers are committed to packing hampers with enough groceries to last families for several days over the Christmas holidays,” shared Morris.
Cash/cheque donations to the Camrose Merry Christmas Fund are still accepted at the fire hall, Royal Bank, or dropped off at 3412-61A Street. On-line donations can be made by eTransfer to mchampers@ telus.net, or at ATBCares. com. Donations made by December 31 will get a 2024 charitable tax receipt. You can email mchampers@
telus.net for more information.
The Kinettes are gathering toys, gifts downtown and the Camrose Swans and Roses Lions Club are transporting the toys to the fire hall on December 19 for distribution with the hampers on December 21.
mas Fund to organize the packing and routing for the hamper deliveries.
The Neighbor Aid Center screens requests and provides a list of names to the Camrose Merry Christ-
You can also volunteer your time to assist with packing or delivering hampers.
…doing good in our community
Royal Canadian Legion
By Murray Green
The Camrose Kodiaks hammered the Olds Grizzlys 6-2 on November 29.
Camrose built up a 6-0 lead before letting off the gas pedal in the contest.
AJ Schaaf (7) and Liam Payne (6) scored in the opening period. They geared three more tallies. Lukas Zimovcak notched his first and second markers of the season, while Owen Lansing collected his second of the year on a power play opportunity.
In the third, Lansing added his third goal before Olds fought back with two markers.
Goalie Noah Caballero stopped 20 of the 22 shots fired his way. The Kodiaks recorded 45 shots on goal.
In the Teddy Bear Toss match, it was the Kodiaks that were tossed around in a 7-3 loss. The stuffed animals and other toys are donated to several charities.
The fur was flying eight minutes into the game when Payne opened the scoring, notching his seventh of the year. Sam Lozinski (11) and Garrett Thom (13) in an all Kodiaks period.
However, the rest of the game belonged to the Oil
Kodiaks defeat rival Grizzlys
Barons as they scored seven straight goals to steal the two points in Camrose.
Goalie Caballero stopped only 26 of 33 shots sent his direction, while Camrose counted 30 shots on goal.
In December, Camrose is home on December 17 for a 7 p.m. game against Devon Xtreme.
Bear facts
The Kodiaks also take on the Drayton Valley Thunder on December 21 at 6 p.m. prior to the holiday season. This is the Ugly Christmas Sweater night, so wear your worst sweater, join in on crafts, photobooths and post-game skating.
Camrose is in third place, just three points behind the league leading Calgary Canucks. The Kodiaks have 31 points in 25 games.
Payne was named the league’s rookie of the week. He scored a goal on November 29 in a 6-2 road win over the Olds Grizzlys and then opened the scoring for the Kodiaks and added an assist on the second goal of the game to earn the player of the game award. Payne has seven goals and 13 points in 13 games played this season.
TEDDY BEAR TOSS
Murray Green, Camrose Booster Bowen Grycan and Christian Stephenson gather stuffed animals to put into a bag after the Camrose Kodiaks scored first in the annual Teddy Bear Toss game on November 30. The Kodiaks collect the stuffed and other toys and donate them to various charities.
Churchmice play at Bailey awakens holiday spirit
By Adan Shaikh
The Churchmice Players took the stage with their production of A Good Old Fashioned Family Christmas, filling the Bailey Theatre with Christmas spirit. The comedic play left the audience entertained and touched.
The play follows three sisters, trying to meddle in their parents’ marriage, with the help of their helpful husbands and children who have their own ulterior motives for the dinner party. The traditional living room setting is sure to remind everyone of their own family homes.
The cast played their roles so well that they became the characters. Their perfect timing for the jokes and expressions had the audience laughing hysterically. Erin Hammond, who portrayed Judith, especially stood out in her performance. She brought depth and authenticity to the sweet, hopeful character, making it impossible not to root for her, often leaving viewers in awe.
From the very begin-
ning, the play had the audience relating on personal experiences, through jokes about family life. The cast’s dedication to their roles ensured that anyone watching the show felt invested, like a part of the family.
Trevor McTavish as Hayden reminded everyone with his performance what it means to be a supportive husband. Dylan Ward as Max had everyone laughing with his witty banter.
The child actors re -
minded everyone of what it was like to be a child at Christmas. The play left the audiences reminiscent of their own family Christmases.
This play is the perfect way to bring about some Christmas cheer, and the
next evening shows will be held on December 13 and 14, at 7:30 p.m., followed by a matinee show on December 15, at 2 p.m. For more information and tickets, please visit the Bailey Theatre website at www.baileytheatre.com.
USA
for a
SILENT SANTA Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
The Camrose Fire Department and Kinette Club of Camrose collected donations for the Kinette Silent Santa Toy Drive outside of Walmart. From back left are firefighters Devon Herbert, Vibhav Fadnis, Maxwell Cicchello, Scott Smith and Paul Gibson. From front left are Christine Shuman, Stephanie Hvenegaard and Tegan Fleck. Tegan came out on a very cold day to donate some toys for the Silent Santa toy drive so all kids can wake up to presents under the tree on Christmas morning. These toys along with the food collected by Merry Christmas Fund will be gathered at the Fire Hall before they are donated to the families in need.
ready for the
the
With permission of Dramatists Play Service Inc
MIDNIGHT MADNESS
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Nutters store set up a cider and treats station for shoppers to stop in and grab a warm drink. From left are Jason and Bree Urkow.
TEAM USA
Ron Pilger, Camrose Booster
Team
was
Junior A World Challenge last week. The teams continue to play
spot in
final gold/silver game. The final match is on December 15.
You can never have too much turkey or jazz
By Murray Green
The St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church is inviting everyone for a evening of great food and fine jazz on December 20.
The dinner will be at 5:30 p.m. with the concert at 7 p.m. in the church hall.
“We are holding a Christmas dinner and show called Turkey and All That Jazz. There is a full turkey dinner catered by A-1 Catering followed by a jazzy Christmas concert performed by the Battle River Big Band,” said organizer Kevin Keech.
The Battle River Big Band formed in about 2014.
“We were playing a few concerts and then the pandemic hit and the band was shut down for a couple of years. We played a concert at the Manluk Centre in Wetaskiwin last summer to keep up the momentum and the band together. I started thinking about another gig and I approached the parish fundraising committee to see if they would be interested in doing a Christmas show,” explained Kevin.
“The band will be playing many familiar Christmas tunes in arrangements many have not heard before,” revealed Kevin.
“I am the liaison between the band and the church, not necessarily one
of the leaders of the band. We played at the Bailey Theatre and Lougheed Centre in the past and this gives us another concert, but it will be filled with Christmas music,” shared Kevin, who plays tenor saxophone.
“When I first joined, we did a fall show around Remembrance Day, and we do a spring show that was a Latin show last year. Our Lougheed show had a James Bond theme and we had a vocal group join us, so that was a special concert,” added Kevin.
“We play such a variety of music. At our shows, people are looking for that big band experience. We play Glen Miller Orchestra music and that sort of classic music. This show will be a jazzy Christmas concert.
“We have both single and corporate table seatings, so businesses can use the event as a Christmas party as well. We decided later in the planning to add some single seating for concert only guests. There will be a limited number of those seats,” he said.
“You can order the tickets right on the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church website that has an online store on it. You can go to the parish office during business hours, or contact
by phone,” Kevin explained.
“The parish itself is trying to promote community and this event is not just for the Catholic community, but for entire community to come and enjoy the food and music,” added Kevin.
The funds will go towards the church, but not any one project.
“Our goal with the band is to have an 18-member band that is stable with community members, so that it doesn’t change a lot. It is like a hockey team, you just start gelling together and know how each other plays,” said Kevin.
“This band is surreal for me. Tom Spila plays guitar and he was my band teacher in high school. To come full circle and play in a band with him is awesome. Tova Olson, our piano player, taught two of our daughters music. Bob Bailey is a trumpet player and he has been a friend of the family for many years. Marshall Tindall is a music instructor in Wetaskiwin and Norm Skretting is a former band teacher, so we have a lot of talent in the band. Rob MacMillan and Erik Olson, I could go on and on,” Kevin shared.
For more information and tickets go to stfx camrose.caedm.ca or call the office at 780-672-1131.
Enhancing rural health and education access at Augustana
Shaikh, Camrose Booster Brittany Hollowachuk, alumni of Augustana and now a student of the physical therapy program, talked about the benefits of studying in smaller classrooms. She highlighted how that allows the students to connect with one another, providing a more supportive learning environment, and the importance of having these programs available in the rural communities. That way the students don’t feel the need to move to the city to study.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Pictured, from right, are Dan Gillespie and Chris Zarski, associate lecturer, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine. Zarski will be teaching physical therapy. The students of the program looked excited and motivated to be sharing what they are learning with the public.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Occupational therapy student Julia Redden performed a demo for the visitors of the faculty open house.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Dean of Augustana Dr. John Parkins welcomed the guests. He thanked the City of Camrose for it’s support.
Adan
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Pictured, from left, are instructor Dan Gillespie, dean John Parkins, Mayor PJ Stasko, vice-dean of rehabilitation medicine Andrea MacLeod and student Brittany Hollowachuk.
Bruins drop game to Lacombe
By Murray Green
Camrose Bruins suffered an 8-3 loss at the hands of the Lacombe Generals, who are tied for first place in the North Central Hockey League (NCHL).
Camrose scored a goal in every period, but it wasn’t enough to earn two points on November 23.
Lane Lightning scored between Lacombe goals in the opening period, his fifth of the season.
In the middle frame, the Generals added three more tallies before Dillan McCombie replied for the Bruins.
Carson Welke notched his sixth goal in the third, but Lacombe added three more goals.
Goalie Curtis Skip was peppered with 52 shots and he made 44 saves. The Bruins fired 45 shots at the Lacombe cage.
Camrose plays the Morinville Kings on January 18 in the Max McLean Arena at 8 p.m. in the next home game.
Other home games are on January 25 against Lacombe Generals and January 31 against Wetaskiwin Longhorns.
Bear facts
Lightning and Carson Welke lead the team in scoring with 12 points each.
Seasons remembers
By Murray Green
Seasons Camrose tributed veterans with its annual Pennies for Poppies program.
In honour of Remembrance Day, Seasons Camrose Retirement Community held its annual Pennies for Poppies program to raise funds for the local Royal Canadian Legion with the support of residents, team members, families and community members.
“Every year, Pennies for Poppies allows us to come together as a community and express our immense appreciation to veterans and active service people,” said Landon Miller, general manager at Seasons Camrose. “Seasons is grateful to those that live and work with us and the greater community for their continued support year after year.”
Seasons Camrose held a special ceremony, which included a memorial display, a moment of silence, and readings. The Pennies for Poppies program invited residents, staff and visitors to make donations through self-service poppy boxes, taking a moment to honour Canada’s veterans.
2024 -2 025 HOLIDAY SCHEDULE S
Ci ty Hall , Community Serv ices , and Public Works Of fice Hours
December 24, 2024
December 25 – 26 , 2024
December 31, 2024
Januar y 1, 2025
*Access to the Public Works building is by appointment only
Centra Cam Recycling Depo t
December 24, 2024 .G ates clos e at Noon
December 24 – 26 , 2024 Ga te s Closed
December 27, 2024 .G ates open at 8: 00 am
December 28 – 30, 2024
December 31, 2024: Ga te s clos e at
Januar y 1, 2025
Januar y 2, 2025 .G ates
For more informat ion, please contac t Cent ra Cam Recycle Depot at 78 0.679. 4196
Chuck MacLean Ar ts Centre
December 23, 2024 – Januar y 5, 2025
Januar y 6, 2025 .
Re sume Regula r Hour s
Mayer Aq uatic Centre
December 23, 2024 7: 00 am – 4: 00 pm
December 24 – 26 , 2024 .C lose d
December 27, 2024 7: 00 am – 4: 00 pm
December 28 – 29, 2024 1:
December 30, 2024
December 31, 2024 – Januar y 1, 2025
Januar y 2 & 3, 2025
Januar y 4, 2025
– 26 ,
Januar y 1, 2025
Januar y 2, 2025
Win a weekly prize of $100 or the Grand Prize of a $1,500 Shopping Spree (at participating businesses) Grand Prize Draw: December 23 ize of e of a
Congratulations to weekly winner of $100
Week 1: Chris Merlin (entered at Wideman Paint & Decor) Week 2:Randy Lunn (entered at R&D Hot Tubs)
Support the businesses involved in this year’s promotion
• ALO Aesthetics
• Audio Video Unlimited
• IRIS
• Battle River Sports Excellence
• Bea’s Blooms
• Birchwood Bath & Candle Co
• Bra Necessities
• The Brick
• Camrose Booster
• Camrose Coffee
• Camrose Machine & Welding
• Kaoz Kids/Kaoz Kloset
• Ken’s Furniture
• LaScala Jewellers
• The Lefse House
• Nutters
• Old Hippy Fine Wood Furnishings
• Purity Water
• Quilting from the Heart
• Revive Salon & Day Spa
• R & D Hot Tubs
• Save-On-Foods
• Camrose Motorsports
• Sole City Shoes
• Canada Post
• Candler Art Galler y
• Crystal Glass
• Dales Liquor Store
• Davison PC Pros
• Sure Exposure
• Take Care Mobility
• Twists & More
• VIP Labs, Vape in Paradise
• Duff Layton’s Men’s Wear
• Electro Tel (Cellular Div only)
• Vinesation Olive Oils & Vinegars
• Wideman Paint & Decor
• Francoeur Cleaners
• From Kicks to Kids
• Wild Rose Co-op (Food Store)
• FYidoctors
• Harley’s Liquor Store
• Interiors on Main
• Wild Rose Co-op (Gas Bar)
• Wild Rose Co-op (Liquor Store)
Local artist displays work at the Spotlight Bistro
By Adan Shaikh
The Camrose community is known for art. Apart from being the perfect place for artists to find inspiration, the City is also excellent for art admirers who want to enjoy art displays at many locations around the city. The Spotlight Bistro at the Bailey Theatre is one of the locations where one can enjoy a nice meal and local art.
This month, they are displaying not one, but three local artists. On the left side of their counter is a wall dedicated to local artist Jess Hughes, who enjoys creating with various mediums.
“I mainly do oil paintings; I call it my one true love for mediums. I love painting with oil, but I don’t limit myself to any medium. I paint with gouache, watercolour, and any paint or colour I feel like playing with. I call it mud on a stick art,” shared Hughes.
Hughes moved to Camrose only a year ago to pursue art. “I heard from a friend that there is a perfect community of artists in Camrose. I didn’t realize how good it was until I moved here,” she commented.
Hughes started creating 20 years ago; in addition to being a full-time professional artist, she is also the administrative assistant at the
Camrose Arts Society. She is very motivated to bring art to people. “It started with wanting to bring my piece of beauty into the world. But one day, I realized that the world we live in, as humans, is different from all the other species on the planet. The way animals experience just being their natural, raw animal self, we don’t get to experience that unless we
take a trip to the mountains or a lake. I started creating surrealist animal art to try to bring that experience to more people,” said Hughes. She finds inspiration in the mundane. “Inspiration comes out of everywhere for me; it can be the way light is filtering through the window, somebody walking a dog, or even a bird flying over my head. It is every-
where, and I have to quickly get started on using that inspiration before it is gone,” shared Hughes.
Hughes is currently working on a painting of a northeastern black rhinoceros. “I recently came across an article about how the northeastern black rhinoceros went extinct, which made me very sad. I am working on a piece to hon-
our them and do some commentary on extinction. This piece will look like it’s made out of origami and will be in a realistic African savannah setting,” shared Hughes. Eight of her artworks are currently on display at the bistro. She looks forward to bringing more art into the Camrose community by creating and inspiring artistic expression.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Jess Hughes, an artist of many mediums, is displaying her work at the Spotlight Bistro in the month of December.
Protecting the rights of Albertans Camrose helps count birds
By Jackie Lovely, MLA Camrose Constituency
As an Albertan, I feel fortunate to live in a province that values freedom, prosperity, and the protection of individual rights. Our province’s history and success are rooted in a government that understands its primary role: to protect its citizens, their property, and guarantee fundamental rights. These principles emphasize the Alberta Bill of Rights, a foundational document that has safeguarded freedoms for generations. Recognizing the need to adapt to the changing landscape, the Alberta government is proposing amendments to the Bill of Rights that will address pressing issues, ensuring Albertans’ rights remain protected.
A key amendment in the proposed Bill of Rights Amendment Act 2024 would affirm the rights of responsible, law-abiding Albertans to own and use firearms in accordance with the law. Many Camrose residents are responsible firearm owners who rely on their firearms for recreation, hunting, and protection of property. They are increasingly concerned about recent federal restrictions on legal gun ownership, which they feel unfairly target responsible citizens while crime rates rise under lenient federal policies. The proposed amendment aims to ensure that future provincial governments cannot impose unjust restrictions on lawful firearm ownership, thereby securing the rights of Albertans against federal overreach.
For rural communities, where self-reliance is often necessary, this is a significant issue. My constituents have voiced concerns about feeling vulnerable and overlooked by the federal government. Their concerns have inspired me to introduce a private member’s motion that would urge the federal government to address the unique challenges of rural crime and to strengthen individuals’ rights to protect themselves and their property. By reaffirming responsible gun ownership as a valued and respected part of life in Alberta, we send a clear message: we oppose unnecessary restrictions on law-abiding citizens.
Another vital component of the proposed amendments strengthens property rights, a cornerstone of freedom and economic stability. Strong property rights ensure that Albertans can acquire, develop, and retain their property without fear of unjust government interference. This protection is especially important for farmers, small business owners, and community members in Camrose, who have built their livelihoods through hard work and personal investment. The amendments would require fair and reasonable compensation if the government needs to use private property for public purposes, like constructing infrastructure. This measure promotes confidence that investments will be respected, fostering economic growth and stability across Alberta.
While firearm and property rights are priorities for my constituents, the proposed amendments address other critical areas too. For instance, they would reinforce individuals’ rights to make their own medical decisions, adding protections for those who have the capacity to refuse medical treatment unless they pose a risk to themselves or others. This provision is fundamental to personal autonomy and aligns with the broader goal of respecting individual freedoms.
Moreover, the amendments will expand the scope of the Alberta Bill of Rights beyond just statutes and regulations, to include all provincial government actions. This change makes the Bill of Rights a more robust document, ensuring that any government action impacting Albertans is subject to the principles of fairness and justice outlined within it.
These amendments are more than just logical–they’re practical protections for rights that Albertans hold dear. They affirm our commitment to upholding freedoms that define Alberta: the right to make one’s own medical decisions, to own property, and to responsibly bear arms. By reinforcing these rights, Alberta’s government stands resolute in preserving the values and freedoms that make our province a remarkable place to live, work, and thrive.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact my office. We are always here for you!
You can contact Jackie Lovely, Camrose MLA, at Constituency Office, 104, 4870-51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1, Tel: 780-672-0000, camrose@assembly. ab.ca or at Legislature Office, 6th Floor, 9820-107 Street, Edmonton, AB T5K 1E7.
By
Murray Green Birds Canada is currently organizing the 125th annual Christmas Bird Count that is held around the world.
The Camrose count, sponsored by the Wildrose Outdoor Club, will take place on December 15.
“Local birders and nature enthusiasts in our city will join this tradition that has lasted over 12 decades. Data collected by participants over the years contribute to one of only two large existing pools of information notifying ornithologists and conservation biologists of what conservation action is required to protect birds and the places they need,” said Camrose count marshall, Glen Hvenegaard.
“This count is all about celebrating birds, comparing populations from year to year and providing opportunities to connect to nature. Last year, on count day, we recorded 1,295 individuals (a bit lower than our long-term average) of 24 species (about average),” he added.
“The Christmas Bird Count is one of the longestrunning wildlife censuses in the world. Each individual count takes place in a 15-mile-wide circle and is led by a compiler responsible for safely organizing volunteers and submitting observations. Within each circle, participants tally all birds seen or heard that day—not just the species but total numbers to provide a clear idea of the
health of that particular population,” shared Glen.
“The Christmas Bird Count is a great tradition and opportunity for everyone,” said Dr. Brooke Bateman, senior director of climate and community science for Audubon. “Your Christmas Bird Count observations help scientists discover trends about bird species that inform conservation. Ever since the first count in 1900, participating in the CBC has been a fun and meaningful way to spend time outdoors for anyone and everyone.”
“When combined with other surveys like the Breeding Bird Survey, the CBC provides a picture of how the continent’s bird populations have changed in time and space over the past hundred years. The long-term perspective is vital for conservationists. It informs strategies to protect birds and their habitat and helps identify environmental issues with implications for people as well. For example, in 2019, Science published a study using decades of CBC data and other datasets to describe a grim picture: a steady loss of nearly three billion North American birds since 1970. Over the years, Audubon CBC data have been used in more than 300 peer-reviewed articles,” revealed Glen.
CBC data is used to measure how birds are already responding to climate change. “A 2022 Audubon study used 90 years of Christmas Bird Count
data to show how birds have shifted amid a century of major environmental changes. By tracking how bird ranges have moved over time, conservation efforts can be prioritized in areas that are important for birds today and in a climate-altered future. With two-thirds of North American bird species at increasing risk of extinction by the end of this century, CBC data is more important than ever for effective conservation,” reported the society.
Birders of all ages and abilities are welcome to contribute to this fun, nationwide community science project, which provides ornithologists with a crucial snapshot of our native bird populations during the winter months. The volunteers break up into small parties and follow assigned routes, which change little from year to year, counting every bird they see. In most count circles, some people also watch feeders instead of following routes.
“Don’t worry about your skill level because we can match up experienced birders with newer ones,” said Glen.
Bird counters will meet at the Camrose Railway station at 8:30 a.m. finish counting by 12:30 p.m. share sightings over a potluck meal and be finished by 2 p.m.
If you are interested, contact Glen Hvenegaard, count marshall, at gth@ualberta.ca or 780678-5806.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Shown above is a bird enjoying berries on a tree branch on a cold winter day. This bird was joined by a large number of other birds in the same tree, showcasing the abundance of birds in Camrose.
By Murray Green
Brenda and
Brian Nordlund
own a 1965 Ford Mustang.
“We found this car in a specialty car lot in west Edmonton and we took it for a drive on a Mother’s Day, Sunday evening. We peeked through the fence later to see it again. I kept teasing her that I was going to get a tinker toy. Naturally, her response was ya, ya, ya,” recalled Brian.
“We looked at a few cars on the lot, but I couldn’t get her past this car. At that time, I wasn’t working on Fridays, so I called the guy up on Monday and made an appointment to see the car on Friday morning and we wound up bringing it home,” explained Brian.
“All that I have done to it is change the power steering in the car. I also changed the differential, but cosmetically, it is the same as you see the car right now,” shared Brian.
“My thinking was if you want an old car to drive and you think your wife will hassle you for doing that, buy her one too,” laughed Brian. “All of a sudden she became a car person and I stopped being bugged about spending so much time on my car (1967 Dodge Coronet).”
Brenda’s Mustang has a 289 engine with two barrel carburetor and an automatic transmission. “It might be the original engine, I haven’t had time to check that out yet. It runs like a Swiss watch. I have a few parts that I would like to toss on the engine, but she won’t let me do it because the car
Nordlund
loose
wants to spend more time at
runs too good as it is,” added Brian.
“She doesn’t want me to turn it into a hot rod. The car is as original as it can be and she wants to keep it that way. It is her car, so I’m not going to tell her what to do with it,” he commented.
“My intention in the first place was to check out a 1970 or ’71 Dodge Dart that I saw in the same lot.
FUN FACTS
This information is courtesy of Wikipedia. Since the Mustang was introduced four months before the usual start of the 1965 production year, the earliest Mustangs are widely referred to as the 1964 and a half model by enthusiasts.
Standard equipment for the early 1965 Mustangs included black front seat belts, a glove box light, and a padded dashboard. Production began on March 9, 1964. Mustang Serial number one was sold on April 14, 1964, at the George Parsons Ford dealership in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada.
The V8 models were identified with a badge on the front fender that spelled out the engine’s cubic inch displacement (260 or 289) over a wide V.
Several changes to the Mustang occurred at the start of the normal 1965 model year in August 1964, about four months after its introduction. These cars are known as late ‘65s. The engine lineup was changed from a 170 or 200 engine to a 260 or 289 engine with a two-barrel carburetor as the base V8.
Nordlund couple enjoy 1965 Mustang
I was trying to get her interested in that car, but she kept going back to the Mustang. I thought if I’m going to buy a car, I’ll get what she wants. I’m one of the original 12 members of the Alberta Mustang Owners Association that we started in 1978. I had 1969 and 1970 fastbacks back then. I am no longer with the club now, but now we can be again,” said Brian.
“She really enjoys the car. We go to several car shows like this and meet a lot of great people and have fun. To me, there is no down side because I have been a member of the hobby since I was a teenager,” he shared.
“The first year we bought it, we drove the car all the way down to Spokane, Washington, and back and never even added a quart of oil. On the way back, we stopped in Sicamous, BC, to inquire about renting a houseboat and we went out of the office. Across the way was a couple getting off a Harley and he tears off his helmet and shouts, ‘Did you buy that car off a lot in Ed-
monton?’ and I said yes. He had seen the car on the lot in west Edmonton. It is a small world, but a long ways to walk it,” laughed Brian.
“You never know the people you meet along the way. We stopped going to car shows for a bit and it seemed
like we took the cars out, washed them and then put them back in storage. We said to each other, we have to stop doing that. We need to enjoy the cars more and we are doing that now because we are retired,” Brian said.
CLASSIC MUSTANG
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
Brian
hangs
in front of his wife Brenda’s 1965 Ford Mustang at the Camrose car show. The couple
car shows to meet more people, rather than just store their cars out of sight.
GASOLINE & Diesel
Have a safe and responsible holiday season
By Adan Shaikh
The holiday season is about embracing the good things about winter while staying warm and spending time with family and friends. For many people, this is also a time to unwind after a busy year and reflect on their accomplishments, as they look forward to the following year. Unwinding can often mean enjoying some alcoholic beverages, which can be fun and relaxing, but can quickly turn into a dangerous situation if overdone.
All it takes is one moment of irresponsibility for an accident to occur and alter someone’s life forever. This is what happened to Debbie Davies, a Camrose local whose life was utterly shattered by a drunk driver at the age of 19.
“This happened in Munster, Saskatchewan, where I was attending college. Around Easter time, I made plans to see my boyfriend with friends. I have never had a drink; I do not drink to this day. I had decided to go to a party with my roommate and see my boyfriend, but all my friends, including my boyfriend, were drunk when I got to the party. I was naturally the designated driver at all our events. I wanted to be a criminal lawyer, so I always used to say I needed all my brain cells, which is why I never really tried alcohol. The bar was closing, and they wanted to go to another party. I offered to drive, but they didn’t want to hear any of that; they wanted to drive.
“On our way to the party, my boyfriend took his car with his friends, and I was in another car with my roommate. All of sudden, I saw my boyfriend’s car, one of his friends was driving it, the car was coming towards us and kept getting closer and then all I remember is seeing lights as we got struck. My friend went flying out of the vehicle and fell into a ditch, the car started spinning, and that is when I also went flying out of the vehicle,” shared Debbie.
As she lay on the highway, unable to move, with a broken neck and cracked skull, her friends, who were
still able to move, checked on her. The driver who had struck the car she was in performed CPR on Debbie, saving her life as they waited for the ambulance.
“He just about took my life, but he also saved me,” commented Debbie.
Debbie had severe brain damage from this incident and spent three months in a comatose state.
“It took me a year to walk; I had to work hard to relearn how to eat and talk; I was like a baby again.
To this day, I have this big black spot on my brain,” shared Debbie.
But drinking and driving does not only affect those around the drunk driver; it also poses many life-changing consequences for the drivers themselves.
“Many people believe that impaired driving is only a provincial offence and deemed as less serious, but that is not true. Law enforcement still has discretion in the process. If circumstances warrant, impaired drivers can still be prosecuted criminally, which has greater jeopardy of larger fines, criminal records, and even jail time if there is property damage, injury, or death involving another person. The judicial consequences and the
financial burdens are the higher vehicle insurance costs. There is potential for thousands of dollars in immediate costs plus anything long-term, including civil lawsuits. This, of course, also has a ripple effect that could be felt through employment loss and hardship faced by those that may be dependent on the impaired driver, such as family and friends,” shared Const. John Tomaszewski from Camrose Police.
“For provincial administrative sanctions, consequences can range from a minimum 30-day suspension and seven-day vehicle seizure plus a $220 fine for novice drivers that have any alcohol in their body while operating a vehicle, to lifetime licence suspensions and thousands of dollars in fines for those who have been charged multiple times. Currently, the penalty for a first-time offence for a fully licensed driver that is over the 80mg limit is a 90-day immediate licence suspension followed by another 12-month suspension where the Ignition Interlock Program may be applied for at a high cost to the driver. Further to that is a $1,200.00 fine and 30day vehicle seizure, which could cost an additional
$3,000.00. Completing a $379.00 Planning Ahead course is also required,” he continued, sharing the costs and consequences of driving under the influence.
It is worth noting that Camrose as a city saw fewer cases of DUIs this year.
“In the 2024 year to date, there have been 84 drivers subject to impaired driving-related charges or sanctions in our city, which is a bit lower than 2023, when there were 110. The number of drivers charged obviously doesn’t correlate to the number of impaired drivers that are actually out there; they are just the ones who have been caught. However, our members are committed to reducing impaired driving in our community through several initiatives, such as check-stops and mandatory alcohol screening of drivers during routine traffic stops. Demographically speaking, we see much less impaired driving-related sanctions in our younger population,” commented Const. Tomaszewski.
But what steps can you take to prevent drinking and driving accidents from happening at all?
“Calling 911 to report a suspected impaired
driver. Maintaining awareness and positive influence through social connections and planning to arrange alternate transportation,” advises Const. Tomaszewski. By making sure you have transportation and being mindful of how much alcohol you consume, you can enjoy a happy and safe holiday season. This not only protects you while you enjoy your favourite cocktails, but also prevents incidents that can cause mental and physical trauma to other people.
Camrose EMS set up to collect donations
By Adan Shaikh
Camrose Emergency Response Services and Community Response Team will be holding their annual Stuff An Ambulance drive. On December 14, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., the staff will be collecting donations outside of Safeway at Cornerstone. The donors will have a chance to help the families in the community and warm up with some hot chocolate and coffee. Donations needed for this year’s drive are: non-perishable food items, hygiene/household products, baby supplies, and monetary donations for Camrose Neighbor Aid Food Bank. In addition, Safeway will also have prepackaged donation bags that can be purchased in the store.
For a more comprehensive list of items needed, please visit this website: www.neighboraid.ca
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Debbie sits on a bench at Mirror Lake Park, which she sponsored with a beautiful message on the plaque. The message is: “Don’t give up. Don’t give in. Don’t let your demons win. You are more than your trauma.”
A culture of corruption St. Mary’s receives two ultrasound machines
By Damien C. Kurek, MP, Battle River-Crowfoot
The culture of corruption within the Liberal government is truly astounding. Every day, it seems, Canadians wake up to another scandal, ethical violation, or misdeed involving Prime Minister Justin Trudeau or one of his ministers. The sheer number of corruption allegations against the governing party is unprecedented in Canadian politics and has sparked widespread distrust in the government and political system. Trudeau and his ministers have severely damaged Canada’s reputation, both domestically and internationally. We are no longer seen as a country of integrity and democracy but as one plagued by shady backdoor deals and hidden scandals which could rival the plots of bingeworthy Netflix political dramas. Additionally, we have seen how this mismanagement, the flippancy to which they treat Parliament, and the mismanagement of government has normalized constitutional crises.
The latest episode in this ongoing drama involves Randy Boissonnault, the (now former, but still current Liberal MP from Edmonton) minister for employment, workforce development and official languages. Boissonnault “resigned” from his position on November 20, to “clear [the] allegations [against him],” PM Trudeau stated. This decision follows months of investigations and controversy surrounding a business MP Boissonnault co-owned from 2019-21 or possibly still co-owns (Global Health Imports–GHI). The investigation was triggered by a series of stories involving GHI, Randy and Randy’s business partner, Stephan Anderson. In 2020, GHI successfully outbid multinational corporations for pandemic-related contracts and secured deals for pandemic-related items like disinfectant wipes and isolation gowns. When Randy won his Edmonton Centre seat back in 2021, he remained listed as a director of GHI in both provincial and federal business registries. During this time, GHI won over $8.2 million in contracts. The Edmonton Centre MP’s supposed continued involvement with the company directly violated federal conflict-of-interest laws, which prohibits cabinet ministers from holding directorial positions in companies which do business with the government.
But the controversy doesn’t stop there; we now know GHI has a history of lawsuits and ethical violations, including unpaid bills, unfulfilled orders, and even more serious allegations, including fraud, arson, missing records, wire fraud and even connections to international drug smuggling, which led to arrests and a massive cocaine bust in the Caribbean. Investigations into these allegations are still ongoing but read more like a Netflix docu-drama than the normally slow Canadian political news scene.
However, what ultimately led to MP Boissonnault’s ousting from the cabinet was his false claim of Indigenous heritage, which led to applications being made for contracts specifically designed for Indigenous owned businesses. The MP has argued this was a mistake as he is learning about his heritage in real time, as more information about his family emerges. Most believe if there were any doubt in his mind about his ancestry, he should have refrained from making sweeping claims about GHI being Indigenous owned, especially as he sought millions of dollars in government funding earmarked for Indigenous businesses. It is abundantly clear: the Liberal Party has created a culture which fosters and protects corruption that allows insiders to get rich, erodes the integrity of our institutions, and leaves Canadians behind. Randy Boissonnault is merely the latest example of how rampant this corruption has become.
It is clear MP Boissonnault’s resignation on November 20th was not an attempt to root out corruption within the party. But, is yet another example of PM Trudeau attempting to improve his image in the media while continuing to allow corruption to fester within his cabinet, with potentially far more sinister activities taking place behind the scenes. Common sense Conservatives will continue to fight against corruption with every tool at our disposal. But ultimately, it will require an election to clean up the mess the Liberals have made.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column, you are encouraged to write Damien at 4945-50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780-608-4600, text 403-575-5625, or email damien.kurek@parl.gc.ca. You can also stay up to date with Damien by following him on social media @dckurek. 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.
By
Murray Green Covenant Health St. Mary’s Hospital Camrose received assistance from the St. Mary’s Hospital, Camrose Foundation for two point of care ultrasound machines (POCUS) to enhance patient care at bedside.
The total cost of the project was $117,411, approximately $58,705 each.
“Point of care ultrasound has become an essential tool in the assessment of patients. It provides more accurate information than the naked eye or the stethoscope and often prevents the need for a patient to be booked for a formal ultrasound investigation. Many of our physicians are certified through the national Point of Care Ultrasound body and have therefore incorporated this into their practice. With additional courses coming out some physicians are expanding their repertoire of scans they are certified in,” explained Dr. Louis Minders, St. Mary’s medical director and hospitalist.
The new machines will allow for volume assessments, a more accurate way of determining if someone has too much or too little fluid rather than guessing.
Free fluid assessments can tell if there is fluid where there is not meant to be fluid like in the abdomen or around the heart. This can be essential in the ER.
Confirmation of position before induction of labour so babies can turn at any time and if a physician is unsure, they are able to ensure that the head is
down before commencing induction of labor. It will lead to more accurate assessments that also lead to better patient care.
“Based on my ultrasound of a patient’s heart they were accepted to the CCU in a tertiary centre for more advanced care, this sped up their journey to specialist care by several weeks,” added Dr. Minders.
“The hospitalist team at St Mary’s Hospital provides a robust service to inpatient management. We have higher than average complex and high acuity patients compared to other rural sites in central zone. Given that, use of point of care ultrasound has become the extension of the physical exam and provides increased and rapid accuracy and diagnostic certainty. It is important to have such state-of-the-art equipment readily available. The Hospitalists use the ultrasounds almost daily for diagnostic purposes–this tool has become as important as the stethoscope for providing physicians with reliable patient information,” shared Dr. Boray Nguyen, inpatient care physicians lead (hospitalist lead).
The Hospitalist team is thankful for the opportunities that the purchase of two machines present for on site. They will allow the hospital to enhance and increase programs and services.
Advanced levels of learners in the medicine program will be able to perform procedures such
as abdominal drainages, relieving the volume on existing diagnostic imaging departments and equipment.
The machines will be invaluable to special care unit (SCU) patients for a quick look for pathologies causing the symptoms in our critically ill patients. The machines will also be used by obstetrics and surgical services. They have increased numbers of twins being born on site, this requires higher frequency of ultrasound monitoring during labour to ensure safety for both mother and baby, as well as immediate monitoring for any labouring patient that deteriorates. They previously used outdated technology for this purpose.
“We are very excited to become a residency site, which is a significant physician attraction and retention opportunity for our hospital and for our community. A residency program at our site brings with it options for increased program and service options in the interest of learning. Residents will increase St. Mary’s Hospital’s capacity to retain higher acuity patients within our community, saving transport time and costs to have procedures done at other sites, and to enable patients to have better access to local family and community supports. Resident attraction to our site will increase knowing there is ultrasound training and ongoing proficiency available,” said Stacey Brewster, St. Mary’s site administrator.
NEW EQUIPMENT
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
St. Mary’s Hospital Camrose Foundation board members Darren Lockhart and Carolyn Andersen, left, overlook Covenant Health St. Mary’s Hospital Camrose doctors Boray Nguyen and Louis Minders as they test out one of two ultrasound machines the Foundation purchased to assist the medical staff. The added machines save transportation and wear and tear of the machines with less travelling within the hospital, and offer quicker service for the patients.
A Nordic rabbit hole
I found myself in a real rabbit hole, one I had dug myself.
It started when my mom popped by, while we were outside gathering firewood for the winter, to say that my brother and sisterin-law were on their way to the Camrose Ski Club’s annual ski swap. We decided to take a break and head in, as we set our own ski trails.
I would love to have all my kids set up with the newer, warmer kind of cross country gear like what I now have.
We found everything that my 13-year-old needed which was great, except for one thing–that left two kids who still needed poles, boots and skis. I joined Facebook pages in Camrose and Edmonton and launched a secondhand search. The more I learned though, the more confused I became.
The three-pin binding was now referred to as “vintage” or “antique.” It was developed prior to the Second World War, but is still in use today. A system called Salomon Nordic System (SNS) was introduced in 1979, putting the flex in the binding and not in the boot. The system later evolved, but started as a looped bar protruding from the sole of the ski boot.
Then the New Nordic Norm (NNN) was introduced, but the two systems are not compatible with each other as NNN ski bindings have two ridges while SNS have one. Is this a cruel prank by manufacturers so that we need to buy more gear? Not only that, but there are two kinds of SNS boots. Pilot boots have two bars, while Profil have one bar by the toes. Fortunately, SNS ski bindings then started to be made with a groove so that both types of boots would fit in them.
The more I knew, the more it seemed I still needed to know. My husband started to get tired of hearing about the nuances of cross country skis; my kids grew tired of being measured and weighed so I could analyze what to buy them. (They were also hungry because they thought I was saying M&M, the chocolate candy.)
I spoke of my gear search to friends who are also skiers; I’m sure they too tired of my plight, though they were too polite to say so. One friend said that it’s best to have help at a ski store and that a person’s weight is more important than height.
With this information, I learned how to perform my own camber test and even showed up on a stranger’s front porch with a piece of paper so that I could do the test on the skis they were selling. The skier stands on one ski with all their weight with a piece of paper underneath which shouldn’t be able to be pulled out, signifying that the person is heavy enough for the middle of the ski to make contact with the snow when they’re pushing off. The stranger didn’t comment on my piece of paper. The skis we bought from him for my 10-year-old have the Turnamic binding which has a lever that locks and closes by pushing to the side. Introduced in 2016, this is a vast improvement over bindings that need to be pushed down and forward with a ski pole to be released.
Even more perplexing is that many people selling this gear don’t understand what they are selling. I have become adept at zooming in on pictures to differentiate between SNS and NNN; I have looked at people’s gear and told them what they actually have.
Apparently something called the Nordic Integrated System (NIS) was introduced in 2005, but I know nothing about it because I have reached my limit for new facts about cross country skis. I don’t even want to know.
Then, so close to the finish line with only one pair of skis remaining to complete three kid sets, I read troubling information that really gave me pause. Apparently a glide wax should be applied regularly to waxless skis, to avoid the risk of not getting any glide. Should they be called “mostly waxless” then?
Maybe I’ll be lucky enough to find the last set of skis while the snow is still perfect to hit the trails, but first – time to figure out how to wax my so-called “waxless” skis.
Carol Viola Rees
September 16, 1944 ~ December 5, 2024
Carol Viola Rees of Camrose, Alberta, formerly of Whitemud, passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the age of 80 years.
Left to cherish her memory are her children Ralph (Debra) Rees and Shelley Hurley; granddaughter Krysta Hurley; four grandchildren; four greatgrandchildren; siblings Edna Wasyk and Don (Gail) Krysta; and sister-in-law Iris Krysta. Carol was predeceased by her husband Ossie; son David; sonin-law Ray; parents Mike and Edith Krysta; and brothers Dave Krysta and Ken Krysta.
A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at Camrose United Church, 4829-50 Street, Camrose, officiated by Rev. MaryAnn Pastuck and Rev. Helen Reed.
If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Carol’s memory may be made to Heart and Stoke Foundation.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome. com
“Dedicated
Mitchell Chalmers
Mitchell Chalmers of Tofield, Alberta, was born on October 19, 1950, to Ken and Bernice Chalmers. He passed away on November 23, 2024, at the age of 74 years.
He is survived by his family and friends.
A private family graveside service will be held.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Malcolm Murray of Holden, Alberta, passed away on November 28, 2024, at the age of 74.
Mac is survived by his siblings Mary (Fred), Noreen (Dennis), Neil (Jackie); his children Jason, Darcy (Melanie), Christina, Luke (Michelle), and Emma; as well as his grandchildren. Mac is predeceased by his parents Rob and Marge; as well as his wife Caroline.
Mac was born on February 27, 1950, in Vancouver, British Columbia, and was the youngest of four children. He loved adventures, pranks, and befriending all people and animals. One of his favourite stories to tell involved his pet squirrel who almost burnt down his childhood home.
Mac loved vintage cars, fishing, and going to the mountains. He especially loved calling the mountain goats over to his daughter’s car to try and feed them, despite his daughter protests.
Mac would do anything for anyone who asked if he had the ability to help. He wasn’t afraid to stand up and defend the ones he loved. That’s just the type of guy he was.
In lieu of flowers, we kindly request donations be made to a local animal shelter in Mac’s memory.
Nels Arvid Buskas
October 8, 1925 ~ November 19, 2024
The family announces the passing of Nels Buskas on November 19, 2024, at the age of 99 years.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Roxann; children Pat (Wade) Dimock, Arvid, Nancy (Richard) Payne, Karen (Danis) Lee and Julie (Arthur) Pittman; grandchildren Daniel (Stacey), Steven (Amanda), Stewart, Darin, Sarah (Brodie), Lauren, Kendra and Hannah; great-grandchildren Eleanor, Lilli and Luke; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Nels was predeceased by his parents Johannes and Melita; infant son Arvid; brother Gustav (Melita); and sister Emma (Ivan) Tennis.
A Memorial Service will take place at Grace Lutheran Church on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. In memory of Nels, donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church, Calvary Lutheran Church (for the Svea Cemetery Fund), or the charity of the donor’s choice.
Honoured to Serve the Buskas Family Baker Funeral Chapel 780.352.2501 or 888.752.2501
Condolences: www.womboldfuneralhomes.com
Christina Marie Kennedy
July 24, 1966 ~ December 4, 2024
Christina Marie Kennedy of Camrose, AB, passed away on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the age of 58 years.
The family will hold a celebration of life at a later date.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com
Phone 780-672-2121
“Dedicated service since 1906”
Memorial Poems
Available for publication in The Camrose Booster Ask for our 24-page booklet of poetry. Words of comfort to remember someone special.
Malcolm Murray
Gordon Wayne Suchy
Gordon Wayne Suchy of Holden, Alberta, passed away on December 2, 2024, at the age of 72 years. He was born in Vegreville Hospital on March 4, 1952.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda (they were married on April 29, 1978); his children Connie (Cory), Scott (Freda) and Amanda (Tyler); grandchildren Colton, Courtney, Brittany (Rylie), Todd (Ariel) and Brianna; great-grandchildren August and Sophia; brothers Leo, Gilbert (Dorothy), Sandy (Shirley), Harry (Eileen) and Otto; brothers-in-law Dwight (Bonnie), David, Donald (Josephine) and Clayton; numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends; special family friends, the Alexanders from Sylvan Lake, Anne and Lyle Oslund, Weston and Kolly Magneson; his harvest buddies Jason and Christine; and brother Gilbert, who took Gordon visiting many times.
He was predeceased by his parents Steve and Pauline; brother Peter; nephew Terry; sisters-in-law Ruth, Gertie and Rita; and parents-in-law John and Dorothy.
A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 9, 2024, at Holden Community Hall.
Memorial donations may be made to the Mazankowski Heart Institute or to the Stollery Children’s Hospital.
Sherrill “Sherri” Theresa Klevgaard
January 10, 1964 ~ December 1, 2024
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Sherri Klevgaard on December 1, 2024.
Left to cherish Sherri’s memory are her husband Lorne; her children Paulina Klevgaard, Austin (Jess) Klevgaard and Courtney Klevgaard; her grandson Rhodes Klevgaard; mother Gladys Kupka; siblings Sue (Todd) Trombley, Nicole (Paul) DeBoon and Colin Kupka; along with many other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Sherri will also be missed by the many kind friends whom she met in the Edberg area. Sherri was predeceased by her father Frank Kupka, and father-in-law Magnus Klevgaard.
Sherri was a kind lady with a loving heart and will be greatly missed by those who got the pleasure of knowing her in this lifetime.
A funeral service was held at 11:00 a.m. on December 6, 2024, at the Messiah Lutheran Church in Camrose.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or to any other of one’s choosing.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com
Phone 780-672-2121
“Dedicated service since 1906”
Sylvia Mannie Jean Johnson
Sylvia Mannie Jean Johnson (née Bellegay), 83, of Camrose, AB, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, December 2, 2024.
Born on September 13, 1941, in Vegreville, AB, Sylvia lived a life full of love, dedication, and quiet strength.
She was a devoted wife to her husband, Maurice, and a cherished mother to Lisa (Doug) Longtin, Kendall (Tim Kaegi) Johnson, and Lindsey (Pedro Gonzalez) Johnson. Sylvia’s legacy lives on in her beloved grandchildren, Markus and Rielle Longtin, Sloane and Beck Gunderson, Grayson and Andie Diebert, and Ren Gonzalez. She is also survived by her brother Ron Bellegay and her Butterfly Sister, Valerie Bellegay. She was predeceased by her parents, Stanley and Mary Bellegay, and her sister, Sonia McIntyre.
Sylvia’s love, razor-sharp wit, and wisdom touched all who knew her. A fiercely dedicated family member and friend, she had an enduring strength that inspired those around her. Her memory will live on in the hearts, stories, and laughter of her loved ones. We love you so much, Ole Muzzer. Now it’s time for you to rest.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Palliative Care Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital in Camrose. In honour of Sylvia’s life, donations in her name may be made to St. Mary’s Hospital Camrose Foundation - Palliative Care Fund.
Matthew Arthur Kirk
January 29, 1984 ~ September 13, 2024
Matthew Arthur Kirk of Vancouver, BC, formerly of Camrose, AB, passed away suddenly on Friday, September 13, 2024, at the age of 40 years old.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving family: grandmother Katharina Hildebrand of Winkler, Manitoba; parents Maria and Ken Kirk of Camrose, Alberta; his wife Teeto of Vancouver, BC; sister Charmaine (Steve) Bruneski and their children Madyson (Trent) Greer and Dawson (Caroline) Bruneski of Boston, Massachusetts; sister Jacqi and her daughter Olivia and son Kash; ex-wife Rayhannah; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends!
A Celebration of Life was held on September 20, 2024, in Langley, BC. Cremation took place in Victoria, BC.
Leo Regehr
Leo Regehr of Camrose, Alberta, passed away on December 3, 2024, in Camrose, Alberta, at the age of 89 years.
He is survived by his daughter Crystal (Bert) Westergard; nephew Geoff (Charlotte) Clark; and his sister Edna Bernstein.
Leo was predeceased by his wife Elfie, and son Bruce.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alberta Bible College.
Lorne Francis Spooner
June 14, 1937 ~ November 30, 2024
Lorne was born in Lethbridge, Alberta, on June 14, 1937. His family had a farm in Bow Island. At the age of 19, Lorne started his career in the Canadian Air Force where he was trained in instrumentation and worked on military planes. It was at this time that he met his first wife and had two children. The family has been estranged for many years.
Lorne travelled extensively in Canada, with postings in Quebec. He was also stationed at several locations in the United States and internationally, specifically in Germany, where he brought back many stories. His last station was in Cold Lake, Alberta, where he finished his career in the military. At that point, he opened Sasquatch Sports in Grand Centre and Bonnyville. This is where he met his second (common-law) wife Kay Hendricks. They moved a couple of times, and Lorne drove a big rig for Westcan for ten years. They moved to their final home in Ferintosh, where they resided for 24 years. After Kay passed away in 2015, Lorne stayed there until his health declined significantly. He then moved in with his stepdaughter Tammy for the final seven years of his life.
Lorne is predeceased by his parents; his youngest sister Gail; then his wife Kay; and his youngest stepdaughter Sandy Janzen. Lorne leaves behind his first two children Todd and Michel; siblings Marie, Marlene and Roy (Sharon); his stepchildren Monty (Kathy) and Tammy; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Over their 43 years together, Lorne and Kay had the joy of having five loving dogs until the animals passed away.
The family will hold a Celebration of Life at 12:00 noon on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Hi-U Centre, 230 Glenmuir Avenue, Ferintosh.
If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Lorne’s memory may be made to Camrose Animal Shelter.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com
Phone 780-672-2121
“Dedicated service since 1906”
Donald Garry Fransen
July 13, 1953 ~ November 30, 2024
It is with great sadness that the family of Garry Fransen announces his passing on November 30, 2024, at the age of 71. Garry was born in Edmonton to his parents Frank and Margaret on July 13, 1953, and lived a life filled with love, warmth, and dedication to those around him.
“We
There are things that we don’t want to happen but have to accept, things we don’t want to know but have to learn, and people we can’t live without but have to let go.
When someone close to us passes, the confusion and mixed emotions we feel can often become overwhelming. However, it is important to recognize that there is no standard way of experiencing loss and no right way to grieve. Grief can manifest itself in a range of emotions:
Shock, anger, guilt, despair, numbness. It is important to be kind to yourself and give yourself the time and care that you need to transition through the grieving process.
Coping with grief:
Recognize your emotions, lean on support from family and friends, talk about it, get additional help if needed, and give yourself time.
Garry is survived by his children Chris (Darlene) and Kara (Todd); his grandchildren Zachery, Jayda, Riley and Taylor; his sister Sheila Fransen; and nephews JJ and Aaron. He was a loving brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, whose kindness, humour and generosity touched the hearts of all who knew him.
Throughout his life, Garry worked in the dental industry, where he earned the respect of his colleagues and peers and made meaningful contributions to his community.
Garry always would make his family priority, whether it was driving grandkids to sports, to picking them up from school when they were sick, and making chicken noodle soup or teaching them to drive. His family could always count on him being in the stands cheering them on at a hockey rink or behind the backstop at a ball field.
A private memorial service for the family to celebrate Garry’s life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute.
Garry’s passing leaves a hole in our hearts, but his memory will live on forever in the stories we tell, the lessons he taught us, and the love he gave so freely.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com
For information regarding available grief resources, contact our of ce.
With Heartfelt Thanks
The outpouring of love and support from family, friends and the community brought us both comfort and consolation during this difficult time.
Special thanks to Burgar Funeral Home for all your assistance and to Rev Brian Hunter for your heartfelt and beautiful service. Sincere thanks to the pallbearers, honourary pallbearers, Wilhelmina Lutheran Church and Brian McLeod, Retired RCMP Piper. Thank you to CityLights Church for use of your welcoming facility and for hosting the wonderful luncheon. The compassion and professionalism of all involved was greatly appreciated.
Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Letley, the doctors and all the special nurses, lab technicians and healthcare staff of the Camrose Cancer Clinic. Special thanks to Taralie Yuha from Camrose Home Care and the Palliative Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital. We were truly blessed to have such dedicated, caring and professional people to have helped Russ navigate such a challenging journey. Special thanks to Scott Davey for organizing and hosting an unforgettable afternoon at the Masonic Hall on November 5. This event provided the opportunity for Russ to be able to visit and converse with many of you one last time. He was deeply touched by the outpouring of support.
Thank you to everyone for your visits, phone calls, thoughtfulness and kindness over the past few years. We are grateful for all the cards, online condolences and to everyone who attended Russ’s service. He would have been truly humbled by the number of people who came to pay their respects and celebrate his life.
We would like to acknowledge the generous donations and memorials made in Russ’s memory. These contributions truly honour Russ’s character and exhibit the compassion, care and love of those who knew him.
We are truly touched and forever grateful for your presence and kindness.
– Sandy, Marvin and Diana and Basil Olansky
We would not know darkness if we did not have light. The sheer existence of things like darkness, dejection and despair are born in their relations to their opposites and rely solemnly on this state of relativity. This undeniable fact is something to cherish in hard times because it means that whenever there is darkness, there must also be light. When there is dejection, there must be hope. When there is loss, there must be something to be found. Otherwise there would be nothing, just an undefined being in an undefined space.
When we feel that all is lost, the mere thought of someone can, and must, still serve as inspiration for greatness and lead us through our despair into new chapters and onto new journeys. Keeping that in mind, you could say that it is Damon himself who is inspiring us to create something in his memory. No Regrets ❤
Live Fast, Die Young
Water for life
Recently, I spoke with Augustana students in a rural politics class about water management and the sustainability of rural communities in central Alberta.
Students were interested in learning about the Battle River watershed, water quality, water demand and accessibility, the importance of water to the economy, and water governance, which make up the political and socio-economic systems that influence the use and management of land and water. Effective water management in our watershed, which is quite different from watersheds in the north and south, is essential for ensuring the sustainability of central Alberta’s rural communities. In the face of a changing climate and increasing development demands, addressing these challenges will require widespread public engagement and a better understanding of our unique watershed.
Understanding the Battle River watershed begins with recognizing the importance of precipitation. A watershed is an area of land where water from snow and rain is channelled over land and into the soil, groundwater, lakes and streams. The Battle River watershed is a unique prairiefed watershed. Water in the Battle River flows east across central Alberta from the headwaters at Battle Lake to the confluence in Battleford, Saskatchewan, where it meets the North Saskatchewan River. Unlike most other watersheds in the province, the Battle doesn’t have the benefit of water flows from mountain snowpack and glaciers.
The Battle River watershed is also unique in that the land around the river is disproportionally large compared to the size of the river, making effective land management a key mechanism for managing water. The retention of water on the land impacts soil moisture content, groundwater recharge, and stream flow in the Battle River.
What people do on the land impacts water quality and quantity. Maintaining healthy shelterbelts, wetlands and riparian areas are critical to retaining water in this watershed. Water retained on the landscape is essential to the economic viability of agriculture, crop yields, rangeland health, and water for cattle.
Due to climate change-induced drought, communities across central Alberta have been under a water shortage advisory since 2023. While the impacts of drought have varied across the watershed, the cost to farmers has included time and expense to collect water from alternate sources, lower than average crop yields and fewer cattle.
Growing, urbanizing populations further strain water availability. The City of Wetaskiwin, City of Camrose and Town of Wainwright draw their drinking water directly from the Battle River or from lakes within the watershed. While river flows and lake levels fluctuate seasonally with precipitation and vary naturally year over year, climate change and development demands continue to affect the quality of local source waters. These water quality issues are highlighted in the latest state of the watershed report: low water levels and various sources of pollution are negatively impacting our water quality.
The government has managed the quality and availability of water through water licences and water management plans. The most recent plan includes a water conservation objective of 85 per cent of the natural flow that is to be left in all watercourses. This is a science-based target for in-stream flow needs required to protect the aquatic ecosystem, which ultimately supports the health of people and communities. Unfortunately, total consumptive water use frequently exceeds the target and should be monitored for effective management.
Currently, the Government of Alberta is looking for public input on water availability. Rebecca Schulz, the minister of Environment and Protected Areas, said it is time to consider measures to secure water availability, from building reservoirs to potential changes to the Water Act.
The Battle River Watershed Alliance, based on Water for Life: Alberta’s Strategy for Sustainability, brings people together to advance three goals: safe, secure drinking water supplies; healthy aquatic ecosystems; and reliable, quality water supplies, for a sustainable economy. We encourage watershed residents to provide input into the water conversation. Let the province know how we can best protect water in the Battle River watershed.
This column is based on a guest lecture given in professor Clark Banack’s Rural Politics class.
VASSBERG HELPS
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
MaxWell Devonshire Realty assistant Charlene Badry, Barry Vassberg, Camrose Women’s Shelter outreach team member Leslie L, real estate agent Karin Vassberg and Marie Nelson were on hand to help with a donation of $1,100 to the Women’s Shelter. The donation was from Karin’s commissions.
WOMEN’S SUPPORT
Murray
MaxWell Devonshire Realty assistant Charlene Badry, Barry Vassberg (creator of the copper bracelets), Camrose Women’s Shelter outreach team member Leslie L, real estate agent Karin Vassberg and Marie Nelson (a supporter of the bracelets), were on hand to help with a donation of $825 to the Women’s Shelter from the sales of the bracelets.
PRINCESS PURSE
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
MaxWell Devonshire Realty real estate agent Karin Vassberg and assistant Charlene Badry present donations of women’s purses and items to the Camrose Princess and the Purse charity. Princess and the Purse provides a small gift for women who work hard, often as single moms, to make Christmas happen for their family.
Catherine Peirce, executive director, Battle River Watershed Alliance, Camrose
Green, Camrose Booster
Helpful Tips for Writing Classified Ads Which Get Results!
Be Thorough
Sure you want your ad to stand out from the rest, but don’t skimp on the sort of information that sells. The item’s condition, size, age, brand name, and colour are some of the basics readers want to know. Without them, your ad may be overlooked.
Steer Clear of Abbreviations
Okay, so you want to include all the important basics. Don’t use strange abbreviations because our ads are designed to spell all the important details. Besides, you are not paying by the line, but by the word, so there is really no need to abbreviate.
Be Honest
Exaggerating your item’s finer points may bring in a lot of responses, but a buyer who’s misled won’t appreciate it and will take his business somewhere else.
State Your Price
The cost of an item is one of the most important concerns of want ad readers.
Ads showing prices are ones which get results. Giving a price also serves to “weed out” those buyers not in your price range.
Be Accessible
Including a telephone number or address puts you in touch with potential buyers.
Be sure to state the hours you can be reached: a caller who can’t get through the first time often won’t call again.
Don’t hesitate to call us with any questions or problems you may have regarding advertising. Our professionally trained sales staff know the ropes, and would be happy to pass their know-how on to you. That’s why we’re here to help you get the results you deserve.
THE DR. “MAC” SMITH MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND for post-graduate education in nursing is accepting memorials. To donate or for applications and information, please write to AARN Education Trust Fund. 11620-168 St., Edmonton, AB T5M 4A6.
CAMROSE UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH
– Christmas Sale on Saturday, December 14 from 9:00 am to noon at “The Little White Church by the Lake” 5304-48A Avenue. Perogies, Cabbage Rolls, Borsch, Nalysnyky, Christmas Baking, cookbooks and more. Sponsored by Camrose UCC, Round Hill UCC and UCWL.
PERSONAL
LOST THAT LOVING FEELING? Find it with a personal ad in The Camrose Booster classifieds. Ph. 780-672-3142.
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
HARDWOOD FLOORING
– refinishing and installation services. Call today at 780-781-6001 for a free estimate.
SNOW CLEARING – Tired of shovelling and need your sidewalks or driveways cleared? Call Shane at 780-781-6420.
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 APART-
MENT – 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.
GENEROUS SECOND FLOOR OFFICE LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN CAMROSE
193 sq. ft., extremely quiet building. Fully wired for telephone and internet.
$262.02/mo. plus GST, all in. Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, 780-672-3142 days, 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.
AVAILABLE DECEMBER
1 – in a fantastic location. New 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit with in-suite laundry and dishwasher. 9’ ceilings with modern finishings. Quiet neighbourhood close to most amenities in Camrose. Unit comes with a designated parking stall, snow removal and yard maintenance included. Water included for utilities. No pets, non-smoking unit, $1600/mo. on a minimum one year lease. Call 780-608-8315 for more details.
LOOKING
FOR
A ROOM-
MATE? No smoking or partiers. Pets allowed. Close to downtown and the university. Fully furnished apartment. $750-800/mo. Includes utilities and WiFi. Call 780-678-6720 and leave a message.
BOOSTER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS
TWO-BEDROOM TOWN-
HOUSE – Newer building, located close to downtown amenities. High efficiency furnace and ondemand hot water offer wonderful savings on utilities. Private balcony, suitable for BBQ. Upgraded fixtures, cabinetry and flooring. 5 appliances, including dishwasher and laundry. Friendly, clean and quiet neighbourhood. Local owner managed, snow removal and lawn mowing are provided. Seeking mature responsible adult tenants, nonsmoking. Not suitable for small children or pets. $1250/mo. rent + utilities (water is included in rent). $800 DD. Available February 1. Phone 780-679-7090.
FOR LEASE
VERSATILE SPACE – just off Main Street. This well-kept, easily accessible ground floor space is 1465 sq. ft. Asking $1,650/mo. plus GST and utilities. Please call 780-672-0900.
MACHINERY
SWATHER NO LONGER ‘CUTTING THE MUSTARD?’ Call The Camrose Booster Classifieds, 780-672-3142.
MISCELLANEOUS
ELECTRIC LEAF BLOWER – like new. Excellent for snow blowing. Asking $100. 780381-8756.
AUTO
DADS – LOOKING FOR A CAR WITHOUT A BACK SEAT? Count on our classifieds. We match up buyers and sellers. Phone the Camrose Booster, 780-672-3142.
BOATS, RVS and TRAILERS
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.
BRCF grants STARS
Submitted
The Battle River Community Foundation awarded a $10,000 grant to the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service, otherwise known as STARS.
“Since we started in 1985, STARS’s mission has been to provide critical care anywhere, and with ongoing support from community partners like the Battle River Community Foundation, we can continue to be there for patients in their worst moments. The Foundation’s funding of $10,000 to our Allies for Life program will cover the costs of one mission in your area. We are so grateful for partners like the Battle River Community Foundation, and thank you so much for your ongoing support of our mission to save lives,” said Shannon Paquette, donor relations and development officer for STARS.
The grant is funded from income earned from: the Bob Hanrahan Fund, the Leo and Jean Vos Family Fund, the Stan and Jackie Hovde Memorial Fund, the Sven and Lillie Nelson Memorial Fund, the Dave and Shirley Mitchell Hughenden and Area Fund, the Rosalind Community Fund, the Martha and Gene Waldorf Fund, and the Foundation’s Community Fund.
The named endowed funds like those listed above permit the Foundation Board to select grant recipients from applications received annually. The Foundation’s Community Fund allows the Foundation the flexibility to respond to changing needs in our communities.
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 $9,891,300 to support charitable activities in the Battle River Region.
Janitorial / Lite Maintenance Person
Genera l Summar y:
Janitorial
• Cleanin g o n a d ail y b asis
• Inve ntor y of a l l cleanin g s upplie s
• Clea n f ridges – o nc e a wee k
• Wa s h o utsid e w indows – q ua rterly
• Wa s h w all s – t wi c e a yea r
4925 -4 8 St reet Camros
No good way to bully
Submitted
Special Olympics Alberta-Camrose, floor hockey athletes and volunteers took the pledge to say no to bullying.
By Murray Green There is never a good way to bully someone. Special Olympics AlbertaCamrose stands behind the phrase No Good Way. People have come a
long way with being educated and educating others with acknowledging that words matter.
Join Special Olympic athletes to celebrate 10 years of #NoGoodWay,
• Wa x o or s - q ua rterly Lit e Yard M aintenance
• Mow t h e l aw n
• Tr i m t ree s w he n n eede d
• We e d w hi p a ro un d a l l t re es
• Pl an t a n d w ater t h e f ro n t owe rbed
• Spray weed s a ro un d t h e b uildin g a n d yard
• Sh ove l s idewalk s b efore o c e h our s ( i f i t s nows)
• Notif y m anagemen t of a ny r epair s n eede d
• Pain ting
• Pe s t c ontro l – m ic e a n d gophers
• Al l other d utie s a ssigne d
Quali c ations :
• Hig h S choo l d iplom a o r G enera l Education D egre e (G ED)
• At l eas t 1 yea r of r elated exp erienc e
• Mus t b e m echanicall y i nclined
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• G oo d o rg aniz atio n a n d t im e m anagemen t s ki ll s
• Mus t h ave or be w illin g to t ake W HMIS , Transpor ta tion of D ange ro u s G ood s a n d Firs t A id
• Ski d s teer e xp erienc e a n a sset o r w illin g to t ake course
• Va li d d ri ve r’s l icence
Hour s o f O peration : Hour s of o peration a re g enerally
8:0 0 a m to 4:3 0 p m , M onday t hroug h Friday
Sa lar y a n d B ene t s: Ba tt l e R ive r Powe r C oo p o e r s a competitive s alar y, a tt ractive b ene t s a n d a posit ive wor k enviro nment . T h e s ta rt in g s alar y fo r t hi s positio n w il l b e b ased u po n t h e exp erienc e a n d q uali c ation s of t he successfu l c andidate
Applications : Quali e d a pplicant s a re e ncouraged to submi t a c ove r l et ter a n d cur re n t resum é v i a e mail o r to addres s b elow by Friday, D ecembe r 13 , 2024, a t 4:0 0 p m
We appreciate and consider all applications ; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacte d.
Please submi t you r resum é to: Ba tt l e R ive r Powe r C oo p At tent ion: H uma n Resou rc es Box 1420, C am ro se, A B T4V 1X3 Fa x : 780 - 672-7969
Email : valerie.king@brpowe r.coop
motionball’s anti-bullying campaign in support of Special Olympics athletes and all those living with intellectual disabilities.
This campaign promotes the use of inclusive language with a goal of ending the casual and negative use of the “R-word” (retard) from everyday conversations.
By choosing kindness and inclusion, you can join tens of thousands of Canadians to create safer and more inclusive environments for the one in 10 Ca-
nadians living with intellectual disabilities. The 10 years is just the beginning of the #NoGoodWay journey. Together, they can create a more inclusive Canada. Use Your Voice. Make The Choice. Take The Pledge.
I will choose not to use the R-word in everyday conversation.
I will educate others about the link between the R-word and bullying.
I will show my support on #NoGoodWay Day.
Submitted
Ben Paulson, a director on the Battle River Community Foundation board, presents the cheque to Shannon Paquette, donor relations and development officer for STARS.
FA RM LA ND FOR SA LE BY TENDER
Tenders for the pu rchase of la nd in Camrose County as described below are invited. La nd will be sold subj ect to all existing reservations and exceptions stated on title, with the exception of Mortgage #062 167 155 and caveat #072 080 147, wh ich will be discharged
LI NC: 0011 762 663
MERI DI AN 4 RA NGE 20 TOWNSH IP 43
SECT ION 14
QUARTER SOUT H WEST
EXCEPTING THER EOUT ALL MINES AN D MINERALS
AR EA: 64.7
HECTAR ES (160 ACRES) MORE OR LESS
There are approximately 80 cultivated acres and approximately 80 acres past ure and bush The ya rd site has power and natu ral gas. All buildings are deteriorated and of nil or minimal value. There are also an older 38 ft high grain si lo tower and one grain bin.
Tenders are to be subm itted in sealed envelopes ma rked “DONNA
SM IT H Tender”, to Scot t Fa rn ha m at Fa rn ha m West Stolee Ka mbeitz LLP, Ba rr isters and Solicitors, 5016 -52 St reet, Camrose, Alberta T4V 1V7, on or before 12:0 0 noon, DECE MBER 18 , 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 FEBRUA RY 5, 2025 The 5% deposit shall constitute a deposit towa rds the pu rchase price. Ta xes will be adjusted on closing date Any su rface lease payments received by the Vendor before closing will not be adjusted. Su rface Lease rental has been $2250 yearly 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 about the proper ty, please contact Wayne Olson at 403-861-7295. For further information about the tender process, please call Scot t Fa rn ha m at 780- 679-0444
Th is Tender may also be viewed on the Fa rn ha m West Stolee Ka mbeitz LLP website: www.fwsllp.ca
FOR SALE BY TENDER
TE NDER S AR E INVITED for th e pu rc hase of th e followin g proper ty locate d in th e Camros e Coun ty : MERIDIAN 4 RA NG E 20 TOWNSHIP 46
SECT IO N 1
QUARTER NORT H WEST
CONTAINING 64.7 HECTARES (160 AC RE S) MORE OR LESS
EXCEPTIN G THER EO UT:
HECTARES (ACRES) MORE OR LESS
A) PL AN 1221327 – SUBDIVISION 2.00 4.94
B) PL AN 2121000 – SUBDIVISION 2.58 6.38
EXCEPTIN G THER EO UT AL L MINES AN D MINER ALS
Th e title to th e proper ty will be subjec t to th e rese rv ations an d exceptions now appearin g on th e title an d free an d clea r of al l fi nancia l encumbrances
GS T will be adde d to th e te nder pric e unless th e pu rc hase r is a GS T registrant at th e time of closing.
TE NDER S must be in writing, accompanie d by a ce rt if ie d cheque for $10, 000 .0 0, sealed in an enve lope marked “S harkey Te nder ” an d must be received by Fielding & Company LLP Barris te rs an d Solicitors , #100, 4918 - 51 St reet Camrose, Al be rt a, T4V 1S 3, on or before 12:0 0 noon December 19, 2024 Municipa l ta xe s will be adjusted
Any su rf ac e leas e paym ents received by th e Seller prio r to closin g will not be adjusted Th e closin g an d adjustment da te of sale will be Januar y 29, 2025 , an d th e successfu l tenderer must pay th e balanc e of th e pu rc hase price, plus GS T unless th e te nderer is a GS T registrant on th e closin g da te, or th e deposit will be forfeited. Th e deposit s of al l unsuccessfu l te nderer s will be returned to them fort hw it h af ter th e closin g of tenders. No conditiona l te nder s will be a ccepted , an d th e highes t or any te nder will not necessaril y be a ccepted No warran ty what soever is gi ve n as to th e conditio n of th e proper ty or as to th e fi tnes s of th e proper ty for any purpose. Th e Seller will pay th e cost of title insuranc e to ensu re th e sale ca n be complete d on th e closin g da te
For fu rt he r in fo rmatio n abou t th e te nder proces s phon e Wayn e Th ro ndson, K.C. at
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CL AIMANTS
Estate of LAUR A MAY ANDERSON, who died on November 17, 2024.
If you have a claim against this estate, you must f ile your claim by Januar y 10, 2025, and provide details of your claim with BRYAN ANDERSON at 4603-201 Street NW Edmonton, Alber ta T6M 0E6.
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
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…
DEATHS
Helene Emma Ferrel of Camrose, on November 20, at 93 years of age.
Malcolm Murray of Holden, on November 28, at 74 years of age.
Donald “Garry” Fransen of Camrose, on November 30, at 71 years of age.
Lorne Francis Spooner of Ferintosh, on November 30, at 87 years of age.
Michael Thomas “Mick” Fish of Camrose, on December 1, at 67 years of age.
Sherrill “Sherri” Theresa Klevgaard of Edberg, on December 1, at 60 years of age.
Sylvia Mannie Jean (nee Bellegay) Johnson of Camrose, on December 2, at 83 years of age.
Gordon Wayne Suchy of Holden, on December 2, at 72 years of age.
Leo Regehr of Camrose, on December 3, at 89 years of age.
Christina Marie Kennedy of Camrose, on December 4, at 58 years of age.
Ruth Helene Mohler of Camrose, formerly of Ohaton, on December 5, at 83 years of age.
your
Pock
et! We might well be displaying the job, career or educational possibilit y that ’s right for you.
Carol Viola Rees of Camrose, formerly of Whitemud, on December 5, at 80 years of age.
Duane L. Gerber of Camrose, on December 6, at 92 years of age.
Hockey Vikings split with NAIT
By Murray Green
A new season of sports has arrived at the University of Alberta, Augustana for the 2024-25 Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference season.
Hockey
Augustana Vikings split the weekend series with the NAIT Ooks by winning 5-3 in Camrose and losing 6-3 in Edmonton on November 29 and 30.
Augustana came out fired up to build a 5-1 lead after 40 minutes. In the first, Owen Wheatley, Tanner Manz and Jacob Biensch garnered the tallies. Gerrik Ripley and Briggs Jowett added to the lead in the middle frame.
NAIT tried a comeback in the third with two goals, but came up short.
Goalie Jack Osmond turned away 27 of 30 shots fired at him. The Vikings counted 29 shots on goal.
In the rematch, Vikings were on the scoreboard first when Nico Gallo scored. After a NAIT tally, Conrad Phillips replied to give the Vikings a 2-1 lead after 20 minutes.
NAIT scored twice in the middle frame to take the lead. The Ooks added three more tallies in the third period, while Manz notched the only marker for the Vikings.
Goalie Osmond stopped 35 of 40 shots sent in his direction. Augustana counted 27 shots on goal.
The Vikings have six wins in 12 games and sit in
fourth place in the ACAC standings. The top six teams qualify for playoffs.
Augustana hosts the first place SAIT Trojans on January 24 at 7 p.m. in the next home game.
Volleyball
The Augustana women’s team also had a split weekend as they lost 3-0 to Red Deer, but bounced back with a 3-0 match victory over Olds on November 29 and 30.
In the first match, Taryn Watson led with nine kills, Kari White added 13 assists and Racquel Lussier recorded five digs.
Against Olds, both Hadley Ziemmer and Watson led with 10 kills, White set up 24 assists and Cassandra Klinger counted 10 digs. The Vikings are tied for fifth place with four wins in nine matches.
On the men’s side, the Vikings lost 3-0 to Red Deer and were edged 3-2 by Olds on November 29 and 30.
In Red Deer, the Vikings were led by Ethan Yodogawa with eight kills, Caelum Hartman with 16 assists and Joel Smith with nine digs.
Against Olds, the Vikings were led by Devon Nazarchuck with 19 kills, Hartman with 31 assists and Joel Smith with 12 digs.
The Vikings are in sixth place with two points.
Augustana hosts NAIT on January 11 at 6 p.m. for the women’s team and 8 p.m. for the men’s squad in
the next home game. Basketball
The Vikings women’s team split the weekend with a 74-57 loss to Red Deer and they beat Olds 69-27 on November 29 and 30.
Against Red Deer, Ella O’Hara led with 17 points and Mallory Ogilvie chipped in with nine.
Against Olds, Ogilvie led the offence with 17 points, while Mackenzie Mrazik added 11 in support.
Augustana is in fifth place with a 2-8 record.
The Vikings men’s team won 96-87 over Red Deer and beat Olds 92-82 to sweep the weekend series of games on November 29 and 30.
Against Red Deer, Jonathan Gomes led the offence with 25 points and Brett Marlow added 22 in support.
In the Olds game, Gomes led with 21 points and Marlow chipped in with 17 points. Augustana is in fifth place with two wins.
The Vikings host NAIT Ooks on January 10 at 6 and 8 p.m. in the next home game.
Curling
Augustana women’s team have a 1-4 record. The men’s rink is at 0-4.
The second bonspiel is on January 17 to 19 in Edmonton, hosted by Concordia. The ACAC championships are in Red Deer on February 7 to 9.
CR SS DO
It's beginning to cost a lot like Christmas!
Other Moms: "I just finished all my Christmas shopping!" Me : "Cool. I just finished eating all my kid's Halloween candy."
My Christmas shopping list says "Family and Friends", but so far, my shopping car t says , "Me , Myself and I" My wife and I agreed on no Christmas gifts for each other, so of course I' ve been shopping for her ever y day since October because , clearly, this is a trap.
We have now entered the season where everything I buy will be save d for stockings . New toothbrush? Stockings. Socks? Stockings . Here's hoping my husband enjoys his new Ziploc bags, baking soda and bathroom cleaner!
I did the math on my December budget and came to the conclusion that ever yone will be getting a hug and a high five for Christmas this year
I'm "I used to write my Christmas list by sitting down in front of a 400-page Sears catalog" years old. For having such extensive Christmas lists, you'd think my kids would keep their observations abou t my chin hairs to a minimum.
I got my wife some expensive per fume for Christmas. It 's called Ample. I hope she does n' t notice I rubbed the " S" o Dear Santa, please put a new hip and a pair of knees under the tree for me.
Commercials showing a middle class husband buying his wife a car as a Christmas gift are so unrealistic. It 's like, "He y honey, as a gift this year, I made a huge financial decision without your approval. You might want to look for a second job. Merry Christmas!"
I don' t care how old I get. If I'm in a store and I see a toy with " Tr y me!" on it , I will be pushing that button!
Christmas shopping makes me realize that maybe having three kids was a bit ex treme
The older you get , the more you want to be gifted things you hated to be gifted as a child. New coat ? Yes! New under wear ? Sure! New socks? Sign me up!
Home of the Week Great renovated home in Edberg
By Murray Green
the purchase.
This freshly renovated five-bedroom bi-level home is on a huge corner lot in Edberg. It has been beautifully updated, move-in ready and packed with upgrades!
Recent renovations include new windows, sleek flooring, modern siding, a high-end chef’s kitchen and fresh interior paint.
The main floor features a massive living room with a large window that floods the space with natural light. You’ll also find three bedrooms and a spacious four-piece bathroom with a full shower.
You will immediately fall in love with this show-stopping chef’s kitchen that offers top-of-the-line appliances, perfect for entertaining or everyday cooking. The home includes a dishwasher, electric stove and refrigerator with
The fully finished basement offers a very large laundry/storage room, two additional bedrooms, a huge recreation room and a convenient two-piece bathroom–ideal for guests, hobbies, or extra living space.
Step outside to enjoy the 12’ x 24’ deck, which overlooks the spacious yard–a perfect space for outdoor activities, gardening, or relaxing.
Edberg is conveniently located within commuting distance to Camrose, Ponoka and Stettler.
View this home at 9, 2 Street S, Edberg, rural Camrose County It is priced at $234,000. Enjoy living in a smaller community within the County.
For a private viewing, contact Sascha at: Central Agencies Realty
Agencies Realty
My teen asked me what Christmas was like when I was a kid. So I took her phone , turned o the Wi-Fi, handed her the Sears catalog and told her to circle the gifts she wants for Christmas
My husband and I are doing a Christmas workshop He works and I shop
If anyone is looking for ideas for a Christmas gift for me, I'm a size window seat to Hawaii
I just bought a matching bag and belt for my wife for Christmas. Now she'll get the vacuum cleaner working in no time!
Today I bought Christmas presents for the accountant, housekeeper, babysitter and taxi driver. Okay, it's me I bought the gifts for me
We've reached the point in the season where I should be done buying gi fts for my kids, but I keep adding just one more present, then trying to make it even for ever yone over and over until we own ever ything from ever y store
Christmas is such a magical time of year
I just watched all of my money magically vanish.
Christmas Shopping Tips
• If you need a new can opener, just get a new can opener. Don' t give one to your wife for Christmas
• Yell out exactly what gift you want for Christmas near your par tner 's cell phone and just wait for social media to send pop-up ads their way.
• This is the last week to buy books as Christmas gifts if you intend on reading them before you wrap them
• Gift cards are a great way to say, "I don' t really know you or what you like."
• Beware of holiday scams. I ordered my wife a necklace and they sent me two fishing poles.
