By Murray Green

Camrose and District Chamber of Commerce have brought the 65th annual Jaywalkers’ Jamboree back downtown.

Jaywalkers’ Jamboree will be held on June 7 to 9 this year, a week later than usual. Along with the usual spaces used downtown, Jaywalkers’ Jamboree will be expanding into the The Brick, Burgar Funeral Home and Ken’s Furniture properties.

The Chamber board of directors heard that West Coast wanted to bring in more and bigger rides to increase the midway. The board decided to move the event to the Camrose Regional Exhibition, but many Chamber members were upset with the decision.

The City of Camrose’s downtown area has seen construction on several empty lots over the last year where either events, rides or parking used the space.

By Lori Larsen

For a variety of reasons, more and more people are taking an active interest in their genealogy and the Camrose & District Branch of Alberta Genealogical Society are excited to be able to assist with that journey of discovery.

Meetings for the Camrose & District Branch of the Alberta Genealogical Society started up again in March and are scheduled every third Thursday of the month at the Camrose County Ag Services Building, 4238-37 Street, beginning at 7 p.m.

“For the next couple of months we will be exploring Scandinavian ancestry,” noted Camrose & District   Branch of the Alberta Genealogical Society co-president Janine Carroll, adding that the April 18th meeting will feature Cindy Mailer giving a talk about researching ancestors in Sweden.

Continuing with a focus on Scandinavian ancestry, Adele Goa will be presenting on researching ancestors in Norway during the May 16 meeting.

“In addition to our regular monthly meetings, our Branch has several Special Interest Groups (SIGs),” said  Carroll. “They are a “members only” perk, but folks are welcome to attend once or twice to see if it’s something they would be interested in.”
The following is an outline of the SIGs:

Organizational SIG occurs the first Monday of every month at 1 p.m. held at the Camrose County Agri Building, 4238-37 Street.
Attendees are asked to bring their own project, laptop, photos and documents to work on and join a few others for some “social” work-time.

Military SIG occurs the third Wednesday of every month, at 1 p.m., held at the Camrose County Agri Building.

“Our Branch is extremely fortunate to have two well versed military authorities who share their knowledge and help members move forward in their family military history,” remarked Carroll. “We are learning so much.”

Writing Your Family History SIG will have a second group held every second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 2 until 4 p.m.

“This group will meet electronically to support and motivate each other in our family history writing.”

On Saturday, May 4 from 1 until 3:30 p.m. come out for a free of charge, in-person workshop to be held at the Camrose Public Library (downstairs meeting room).

The ABCs of DNA: a (ancient) au (autosomal) mt X and Y workshop, will be presented by Lianne Kruger. Topics to be covered include: explaining the different types of DNA and how they are helpful in genealogy work; why take a DNA test; terminology needed to understand what is needed to help and  surname studies; FTDNA group projects; where to start; how they can work together; research questions and warning labels and ethics.

If you are interested in attending, email the Camrose Branch of AGS at camrosegeneo@gmail.com.

There is a limited amount of spaces available.

By Murray Green

It is not every day that you receive good news.

But, at the end of last year the County proposed an interim budget for the average ratepayer living in Camrose County expected to see an increase of approximately 4.3 per cent more in property taxes.

However, due to spending accumulated Provincial Municipal Sustainability Initiative (MSI) funding, moving some funds to new projects and alleviating operating costs, they lowered the amount of the tax increase to 3.5 per cent.

“A number of capital projects have been added to the budget since the interim budget was presented. As the MSI Grant Program has ended and the funds will expire if they are not used, administration has strategically added projects and adjusted some from using reserves to using grant funding, to use the funding before it expires,” shared administrator Teresa Gratrix.

General increases in the 2024 operating budget are due to less provincial government funding and higher overall costs of doing business.

At the regular council meeting on April 9, administrator Gratrix presented the operating and capital budgets for council’s approval. County councillors passed the budget.

“I move that Camrose County council approve the 2024 Operating Budget with a total operating revenue of $26,980,453 total operating expenses of $43,552,659 to give a total 2024 Tax Levy (operating) of $16,572,205,” said councillor Doug Lyseng.

“The goal for the 2024 budget was to maintain a high level of municipal service to our ratepayers, given the current social and economic climate, based on council’s strategic direction and priority-based budgeting principles,” explained County administrator Gratrix.

Based on this budget, the expected property tax increase for residential properties will be 3.5 per cent. “The increase equates to a $49 increase for the average residential property, $31 for the average farmland property and $79 per 100,000 for non-residential properties,” said administrator Gratrix.

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

County council approved the 2024 capital budget with total capital and project expenses of $9,539,865 to be funded by internal resources (sale of assets, grants, debentures or reserves) of $8,349,965 and a total capital levy of $1,189,900.

The budget committee deliberations that took place October 30 and 31 included potential 2024 capital projects and the funding for these projects. In general, Camrose County funds capital projects for equipment such as graders from taxation and sale of goods, and other projects from reserves and grants as much as is possible,” added Gratrix.

Administration was proposing the use of a debenture to finance the purchase of a mulcher. “This piece of equipment will last 10 to 12 years and will save the County an annual operating expense of $50,000 (2023 dollars). However, this cost is now covered by grant funds in the 2024 budget,” she added.

By Lori Larsen

Camrose Fire Department (CFD) Chief Peter Krich joins other fire chiefs and communities across the county in support of raising the volunteer firefighter tax credit from $3,000 to $10,000 as a provision in the upcoming Federal Budget.

“We need to show our volunteer firefighter, search and rescue and rescue personnel that they are appreciated for the work that they do. As a country we ask so much of our 89,000-strong volunteer firefighters including those in our community–who also have other jobs,” said Krich.

CFD submitted a petition in support of the proposal to raise the tax credit but also to raise awareness of the decreasing numbers of volunteers willing to step up and serve their communities. Camrose Fire Department, alone, has 30 well trained, dedicated volunteers answering the call to service.

According to the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, the number of volunteer firefighters has been shrinking from 126,000 in 2016 to 89,000 in 2023.

“We are asking the federal government to send a clear message to this country’s firefighter, and to all Canadians, in the budget 2024 that they will stand shoulder to shoulder with us in ensuring the retention of essential personnel by increasing the volunteer firefighter and search and rescue tax credit,” said Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, board of directors president Ken McMullen. “This is a realistic, affordable and necessary step to put Canada first as we approach the next wildfire season.”

Volunteer firefighters and search and rescue personnel dedicate not only their free time but often time away from their own jobs and businesses to provide this essential service to communities throughout Canada, that may otherwise not have fire and emergency response.

History is a stark reminder of how quickly a wildfire can change the face of a community leaving behind a path of destruction and tragedy. If the numbers of volunteer firefighters and search and rescue personnel keeps depleting the risk becomes even more immanent.

On April 10, the federal government indicated that the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit was increased from $3,000 to $6,000.

By Lori Larsen

Raffle 3 of Chase the Ace came to a conclusion when winner Douglas Johnson (of Edmonton) drew the Ace of Spades during the 15th draw held on April 10.

That particular draw put $324 in Douglas’s pocket but also saw Battle River Lending Place receive $324, sponsored by Rotary Camrose.

Including the Jackpot of $4,572, Douglas walks away a happy winner with $4,896.

The other big winners are the featured charities for each draw that received donations, totalling $4,072 and the major charity for Raffle 3, The Open Doors, receiving the a donation of $4,072.

Since its inception in September of 2022, the Chase the Ace initiative has donated in total, $82,796 to charities that serve the needs of all members of the community. As the result of Raffle #1 $37,078 was donated to the Hospice Society of Camrose and District (the chosen recipient of the major donation) and as the result of Raffle #2 and #3 $4,320 donated to The Open Doors (the chosen recipient of the major donation). A total of $41,398 in donations was made from all three raffles to 64 various not-for-profit organizations.

By Murray Green
 

The Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre has a great lineup still to come this season.

The Camrose and District Music festival will be holding its 40th Grand Concert on April 23 at 7 p.m.

The Camrose Veselka Ukrainian Dancers will be holding its annual Spring Concert on April 28 at 2 p.m.

Heartstrings and Honky Tonk will be celebrating 70 years of country music. The show will be held on May 1 and will include Clayton Bellamy, Dan Davidson, Duane Steel, Nice Horse and Tracy Millar.

The Country Divas will be having a show at the Lougheed Centre on May 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Celebrate country music’s most iconic female artists such as Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Shania Twain and Faith Hill.

École Charlie Killam School will be holding its annual Spring Concert on May 29 at 7 p.m.

Join the Outlaw Country singers in a Tribute to Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings on May 30 at 7:30 p.m. David James and Big River are one of the top Johnny Cash tribute bands in the world.

By Murray Green

The frequency of washing your car or truck in Canada depends on various factors such as weather conditions, road conditions and personal preferences.

In Canada, weather can vary significantly depending on the season and region. During winter months, road salt, sand and ice-melting chemicals are commonly used on roads to combat snow and ice, which can lead to the buildup of grime and salt residue on your vehicle.

Therefore, during winter, it’s advisable to wash your car more frequently, potentially every one or two weeks or even more often if road conditions are particularly harsh. In milder seasons like spring, summer, and fall, washing your car once every two to four weeks may be sufficient, depending on how dirty it gets.

If you frequently drive on dusty, muddy, or gravel roads, or if you encounter construction zones or off-road terrain, you may need to wash your vehicle more often to remove dirt and debris that can accumulate on the exterior.

Some people prefer to keep their vehicles impeccably clean at all times and may choose to wash them more frequently for aesthetic reasons. Others may be less concerned with maintaining a pristine appearance and may wash their vehicles less often.

Consider the type of wash you’re giving your vehicle. If you’re just rinsing off dust and dirt with water, you may be able to do this more frequently without using soap. However, if you’re using soap and scrubbing the vehicle, it’s generally recommended to wash it less frequently to avoid stripping off protective wax layers.

Applying wax or sealant to your vehicle’s exterior can help protect the paint and make it easier to clean. If you have protective coatings applied, you may be able to wash your car less frequently, while still maintaining its appearance.

Ultimately, it’s a good idea to monitor the condition of your vehicle regularly and wash it as needed to keep it clean and protect its exterior finish. Pay attention to signs of dirt buildup, salt residue, or other contaminants that could potentially damage your vehicle over time. Adjust your washing frequency accordingly based on the specific conditions to which your vehicle is exposed.

By Murray Green

Selecting a mechanic for your vehicle is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your vehicle’s performance and longevity. Seek recommendations from family, friends and colleagues who have had positive experiences with mechanics in your area. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into the quality of service and customer satisfaction.

Look for on-line reviews and ratings of local mechanics. Pay attention to comments about the quality of work, customer service, pricing and overall satisfaction.

Ensure that the mechanic or repair shop is properly licensed and certified to perform automotive repairs. Look for certifications from reputable organizations or manufacturer-specific certifications for your vehicle’s make. Take a visit to the mechanic’s shop to assess the cleanliness, organization, and overall professionalism. A well-maintained and equipped facility is often indicative of a reputable mechanic who takes pride in their work.

Ask about the mechanic’s experience and expertise in working with your vehicle make and model. Some mechanics specialize in certain types of vehicles or specific repairs, so it’s important to find one that is familiar with your vehicle’s needs.

Obtain estimates from several mechanics for the specific repairs or services you require. Compare the prices, breakdown of costs, and warranty offerings to make an informed decision.

Inquire about the warranty coverage provided for parts and labour. A reputable mechanic should stand behind their work with a warranty or guarantee.

Choose a mechanic who communicates clearly and openly about the diagnosis, recommended repairs, and pricing. They should be willing to answer your questions and provide updates throughout the repair process. Choose a mechanic that is conveniently located and offers flexible scheduling options. Easy access to the shop and convenient hours can make it more convenient for you to drop off and pick up your vehicle.

Ultimately, trust your instincts and choose a mechanic that you feel comfortable with and confident in their abilities. If you have any doubts or concerns, don’t hesitate to seek out another mechanic for a second opinion. By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can find a reliable and trustworthy mechanic who can provide quality service for your vehicle’s maintenance and repair needs.

By Murray Green

Spring car care is essential to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition as the weather transitions from winter to warmer temperatures.

Check the oil levels and change the oil if necessary. Inspect and top off other fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid and power steering fluid.

Cold temperatures can affect a car battery’s performance. Test the battery and replace it if needed to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Inspect tire tread depth and check for uneven wear. Rotate tires if necessary. Ensure tires are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Winter conditions can affect wheel alignment and balance. Schedule a professional wheel alignment and balancing if you notice steering issues or uneven tire wear.

Check brake pads and rotors for wear. If you hear any unusual noises or experience braking issues, have the brake system inspected by a professional.

Wash the exterior of your car to remove salt, road grime, and winter debris. Apply a coat of wax to protect the paint from spring and summer elements.

Inspect all exterior lights, including headlights, taillights and turn signals. Replace any burnt-out bulbs. Check the windshield wipers for wear and replace them if needed.

Check and replace both the engine air filter and the cabin air filter if they are dirty or clogged. This helps improve engine performance and air quality inside the vehicle.

Spring is an excellent time to give your car’s interior a thorough cleaning. Vacuum carpets, wipe down surfaces and clean windows and mirrors.

Before the temperatures rise, test your car’s air conditioning system to ensure it is working properly. If you notice any issues, have it serviced.

Inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. Replace any damaged components to prevent breakdowns.

Check the shocks and struts for signs of wear. If you notice a bouncy ride or handling issues, have the suspension system inspected.

By Lori Larsen

In a public statement, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said the confrontation NDP MLA Marlin Schmidt (Edmonton-Gold Bar) instigated against United Conservative Party MLA Jackie Lovely (Camrose) was unacceptable.

“I happened to be at an event with MLA Lovely that evening and I can confirm for you that she was scared, that she was rattled and she was afraid to go back to a committee meeting where she feared she might face another confrontation with this individual,” said Smith at an April 10 press conference.

According to Lovely, Schmidt became enraged over a debate they were having in the chamber regarding a private member’s bill on urban parks.

“Afterwards, he chased me and screamed at me in private to the point where security had to intervene,” said Lovely.

“This is the latest in a long pattern of behaviour from this NDP MLA that is not only unbecoming of a member but downright disturbing. He’s personally attacked UCP MLAs, celebrated the death of a female politician, and made other disparaging remarks.
“I urge this NDP MLA to reflect on his behaviour and seek anger management training and psychological help for what is clearly a negative pattern of behaviour.”

The April 9 Alberta Hansard 959 reported the following regarding the incident.

Alberta Government House Leader Joseph Schow raised a point of privilege (an MLA brings a motion to address a serious issue with another one’s conduct)  regarding an altercation that occurred outside the Chamber where the Member for Edmonton-Gold Bar intimidated and obstructed the Member for Camrose in the performance of her parliamentary duties.

“Honestly, Mr. Speaker, I’m at a loss for words here; I truly am. While we all represent our constituents in this place, collectively we represent all Albertans. Of course, any member can speak to any provincial matter of importance, either to them personally or matters which their constituents feel strongly about. To insinuate that members can only speak to matters in their own constituencies is completely absurd.

“There’s nothing wrong with expressing your dislike for another member’s opinion; in fact, I believe that’s the whole point of this debate. But there are rules, Mr. Speaker, with a bit of latitude built in so as not to prevent one member or the other from being able to freely express their opinions. It makes for good and thorough debate.

“However, the reason I chose to raise this point of privilege is because there is a difference between heated remarks made during the course of debate in the Chamber and to have a member intentionally seek out another member in order to verbally intimidate and prevent them from fulfilling their parliamentary duties, something they were duly elected to do.”

In the report, Schmidt said that it was not his intent to intimidate, mock or make MLA Camrose (Lovely) feel threatened.

“I recognize and take seriously the fact that the Member for Camrose felt threatened and intimidated, and I regret my behaviour in making her feel that way. I know that many of my colleagues here have expressed on numerous occasions times that they have felt threatened and intimidated by members of this very Legislature, and I take that seriously. It was by no means my intent to make the Member for Camrose feel threatened or intimidated, nor was I attempting in any way to obstruct her ability to do her work here in this House.

“That’s my version of events, Mr. Speaker, and I’m pleased to put that on the record. I’m also apologizing directly to the Member for Camrose for my own actions yesterday. Like I said, I acknowledge that she has felt threatened and intimidated, and I sincerely regret having made her feel that way. I will do anything that I can to restore a feeling of safety and wellness in this workplace, and I commit to the entire House that my behaviour will reflect that improvement and that consideration going forward.”

The Speaker of the House said, “I have made a decision. That is to accept the apology. I’ve provided my ruling. This matter is dealt with and concluded.”

By Murray Green

If your vehicle is still under warranty, whether you should take it to a dealership for service largely depends on the terms and conditions of the warranty, as well as your personal preferences.

Review the details of your vehicle’s warranty to understand what is covered and any requirements for servicing. Some warranties may specify that certain repairs or maintenance must be performed by authorized dealership service centres to maintain coverage.

Dealership service centres often have specialized knowledge, training and access to manufacturer-specific tools and diagnostic equipment. This can be beneficial for addressing complex issues or performing warranty-related repairs that require specific expertise.

Dealership service centres typically use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, which are designed to meet the exact specifications of your vehicle. Using OEM parts may be a requirement for maintaining warranty coverage, as aftermarket parts may not be covered under the warranty.

Taking your vehicle to a dealership for service ensures that all maintenance and repairs are documented according to manufacturer standards. This documentation can be important for warranty claims and may help preserve the resale value of your vehicle.

Dealership service centres often offer amenities such as loaner vehicles, shuttle services and comfortable waiting areas with Wi-Fi and refreshments. Additionally, dealership service appointments can be scheduled on-line or by phone for added convenience.

While dealership service centres may provide high-quality service and OEM parts, they can sometimes be more expensive than independent mechanics or repair shops. Compare pricing for routine maintenance and repairs to ensure you’re getting a competitive rate.

By Murray Green

Celebrating Earth Day can take many forms and there are numerous ways individuals and communities can participate in activities that promote environmental awareness and sustainability, April 22.

Attend or organize educational events focused on environmental issues, such as lectures, workshops, film screenings, or panel discussions. These events can provide valuable information and inspire action.

Organize or participate in a local cleanup event to remove litter and debris from parks, beaches, rivers, or other natural areas. This not only improves the environment but also fosters a sense of community and stewardship.

Planting trees or starting a community garden can have a positive impact on the environment by improving air quality, providing habitat for wildlife and promoting local food production.

Make a commitment to reduce waste by practicing the three Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle. This can include reducing single-use plastics, repurposing items and properly recycling materials.
Take steps to conserve resources such as water and energy by adopting habits like turning off lights when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, and reducing water waste.

Support businesses and organizations that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility, whether through purchasing eco-friendly products or advocating for sustainable policies.
Get involved in environmental advocacy efforts by contacting elected officials, signing petitions, or participating in marches or rallies to promote policies that protect the planet.

Spend time outdoors and connect with nature by going for a hike, visiting a park, or simply enjoying the beauty of the natural world. This can help foster a deeper appreciation for the environment and inspire a desire to protect it.

Remember that Earth Day is not just about one day of action—it’s about making lasting changes in our daily lives to protect the planet for future generations. Consider making long-term commitments to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

By Murray Green

The Camrose residential market continues to show resiliency in an otherwise uncertain global market.

After seeing a decline in values in 2023 quarter three (Q3) and a stabilization in 2023 quarter four (Q4), market values increased in 2024 quarter one (Q1).

“While interest rates remain high, it appears that inflation is beginning to cool, which should eventually help to ease the pressure on new buyers looking to get into the market. Overall housing demand remains strong, which should continue to spur on the Camrose residential market in 2024,” said Jacobus Slabbert, HarrisonBowker Camrose manager, senior appraiser.

The average sale price in 2024 Q1 was $325,266 which is up 3.22 per cent from last quarter and up 22.76 per cent from the same time last year. The rolling 12-month average increased by 4.86 per cent.

The median sale price in 2024 Q1 was $325,000 which is up 6.21 per cent from last quarter and up 27.45 per cent from the same time last year. The rolling 12-month average increased by 5.76 per cent.

There were 14 sales over $400,000 in 2024 Q1, which is three more than last quarter and eight more than the same time last year. The increase in number of higher valued properties helps to explain the significant jump in average and median sale between 2024 Q1 and 2023 Q1.

The average Days on Market was 77 days, which is up 22 days from last quarter and up five days from 2023 Q1.

In rural Camrose County, there were 11 reported sales in 2024 Q1, which is down three sales compared to last quarter and down two sales compared to 2023 Q1. The average Days On Market was 78 days, which is up 23 days compared to 2023 Q1.

In rural Flagstaff County, there were three reported sales in 2024 Q1, which is down one sale from last quarter, but up one sale compared to 2023 Q1. The average Days On Market was 184 days, which is down 52 days compared to 2023 Q1.

City of Camrose,  while rents have increased almost 12 per cent, vacancy rates are at an all time low of just 0.2 per cent.

By Murray Green
 

Parkinson Canada declared April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month.
Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease. Movement is normally controlled by dopamine, a chemical that carries signals between the nerves in the brain. When cells that normally produce dopamine die, the symptoms of Parkinson’s appear.

Most common symptoms are tremor, slowness and stiffness, impaired balance, rigidity of the muscles. Other symptoms could be fatigue, soft speech, problems with handwriting, stooped posture, constipation and sleep disturbances.

A diagnosis of Parkinson’s can take time. A family doctor might notice it first. You may be referred to a neurologist–a specialist who deals with Parkinson’s. There are no X-rays or tests to confirm Parkinson’s. So the neurologist will check your medical history, do a careful physical examination and certain tests and rule out other conditions which may resemble Parkinson’s.

Currently, there is no cure. You can live with Parkinson’s for years. The symptoms are treated with medication. Some people with Parkinson’s may benefit from surgery. The following therapies can also help manage the symptoms: physical therapy helps mobility, flexibility and balance; occupational therapy helps with daily activities; speech therapy helps with voice control and exercise helps muscles/joints and improves overall health and well-being.
Parkinson’s can progress at a different rate for each person. As symptoms change, medication will need to be adjusted. As the disease progresses, non-motor symptoms may also appear, such as depression, difficulty swallowing, sexual problems or cognitive changes. It is important to find a doctor who is knowledgeable about Parkinson’s, ideally a neurologist. By working with a health-care team, a treatment plan can be created that will meet the person’s individual needs.

Every Parkinson’s experience is unique. The symptoms and progression will vary from person to person. Living with Parkinson’s requires an individualized approach which includes all aspects of your life (a holistic approach).

It is important for you to be an active participant in managing the disease. Care partners can also be involved.