The Camrose Booster

Royal Purple pack bags for Purple Thursday

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From left, Royal Purple members Marion Czapp, Irene Gartner, Doreen Pushak and Marge Lynch prepared the bags to drop off to the Camrose Women’s Shelter.

By Adan Shaikh

Fifteen bags filled with personal care items and essential supplies have been delivered to the Camrose Women’s Shelter, thanks to the Camrose Royal Purple’s yearly effort during October’s Family Violence Prevention Month and Purple Thursday.

This year, volunteers focused on young boys who arrive at the shelter with their mothers, recognizing that children fleeing unsafe homes may need personal items of their own as families seek safety.

Purple Thursday is a campaign raising awareness of the connection between intimate partner violence and acquired brain injury. Research indicates up to 75 percent of women who experience intimate partner violence also experience brain injury, often caused by blows to the head, face and neck or strangulation.

Purple Thursday encourages communities to recognize the lasting effects of violence, support survivors and improve awareness among health-care professionals, first responders and community support workers.

More information about the campaign and brain injury resources is available at https://abitoolkit.ca/

In Camrose help can be found by contacting the Camrose Women’s Shelter at: 780-672-1035.

Council to vote on tenant utility account changes next month


By Adan Shaikh

Camrose City council will vote November 9 on proposed changes that would shift responsibility for utility payments from tenants to property owners, with a phased rollout beginning in January 2027.

The changes would apply to water, wastewater, recycling and waste collection services. Under the proposal, property owners would be responsible for utility accounts at their properties, although they could request that the city provide tenants with copies of monthly bills.

The administration hopes that the changes will improve consistency across city bylaws and reduce the risk of unpaid utility charges.

The city has approximately 1,065 active tenant utility accounts. Administration estimates 100 to 150 could be more than 40 days overdue in the first quarter of 2027.

If approved, the changes would take effect on January 1, 2027. All new utility accounts would have to be opened in the property owner’s name, while existing tenant accounts would be phased out by December 31, 2029.

The city plans to notify landlords and property managers of the changes in November. Landlords with tenants whose accounts are already at risk of default would receive individual letters December 21, 2026.

Beginning in 2027, existing tenant accounts more than 40 days overdue would be transferred to the property owner. Landlords would receive notice before the transfer, but the tenant would no longer be able to keep the utility account in their name.

Councillor Wayne Throndson asked Travis Bouck, general manager of financial services to walk him through the process, assuming he is a property owner receiving the notice, finding out that his tenants are six months in arrears. Bouck responded that the deposits that have already been collected from the tenants would be applied to the account and any outstanding balance from there would be collected through an external collections agency. “The financial risk stays with the City, the owner takes over with a clean slate.”

He also shared that once taking over the accounts, the landlords can request the city to also provide the tenants with a copy of their utility bills as they transition to collecting the costs through the rent.
For information on the changes, visit camrose.ca

Rural Health Hub opens doors

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MLA Lovely presented recognition plaques to the educators of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine. From left, Esther Kim, dean of faculty; Leeanne Sadowsky, occupational therapy; MLA Lovely; Jasmine Travers, speech language pathology; and Chris Zarski, physical therapy.

By Adan Shaikh

The University of Alberta Augustana Campus celebrated the grand opening of its new Rural Rehabilitation Health Hub on October 20, bringing additional rehabilitation services to Camrose.

The Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine welcomed Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely, Mayor PJ Stasko and City councillors Don Rosland and Agnes Hoveland for the opening and a tour of the facility with faculty dean Esther Kim.

The Health Hub brings together occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language pathology, providing students with clinical experience while expanding rehabilitation services available to rural communities.

“Rehabilitation helps people do the things that make up their lives,” said Kim. “It might mean being able to have a conversation with their family, opening a jar or getting dressed on their own, getting back to the garden or lacing up the running shoes after an injury,” said Kim.

She noted that people in smaller communities often have to travel to larger centres to access rehabilitation services. The hub will add to services available in Camrose and area while giving Augustana students opportunities to train and potentially build careers in rural communities.
Lovely said the facility will benefit both students and the broader community.

“This Health Hub brings together learning, training and care all in one place,” she said. “It strengthens the student experience, expands access to services and helps prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

“Strong local ties between our university, health advocates and community members brought this vision to life,” she continued.

The impact of rehabilitation services was also highlighted by Lee Thompson, who has worked with Augustana speech-language pathology  since the program began. Thompson experienced two strokes and lives with Dysarthria, a motor speech disorder, that makes speech slurry.

“The students have helped me a lot by coming here and following their strategies here and at home, and in public,” Thompson said.

She shared the program also gives participants access to new approaches, technology and services.
“I totally recommend this program to help get your speech back for any reason. How lucky we are to have it here,” Thompson said. “I can teach you and you can teach me.”

The hub will also expand local clinical placement opportunities, reducing the need for students to travel while giving them experience working directly with rural communities.

Tory Party leader Peter Guthrie visits Camrose


By Adan Shaikh

Progressive Tory Party leader Peter Guthrie met with Camrose residents October 15 at the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre, discussing his departure from the United Conservative Party (UCP), his political priorities and the direction of Alberta’s government.

Guthrie, a former provincial infrastructure minister, was welcomed by Bonnie Critchley, the party’s candidate for Camrose constituency. Guthrie resigned from cabinet and was later removed from UCP caucus after raising concerns about the government’s handling of Alberta Health Services procurement contracts. He continues to serve in the Alberta legislature as a member of the Progressive Tory Party.

Critchley, who ran as an independent in last year’s federal by-election, said she had not intended to return to politics but reconsidered after hearing concerns from residents about education and the province’s response to the teachers’ strike.

“Last year our teachers lost their rights, now whatever your stance is on how that strike ended, what happened is so wrong to me as a retired soldier,” she said. “To watch people lose their rights, they lost freedom of association and freedom of expression.”

Critchley said she joined Guthrie’s party because she believes Alberta needs an alternative to increasingly divided politics.

“Our politics are not supposed to function like a two-party system,” she said, calling for more co-operation across political differences.

Guthrie described the party’s approach as progressive conservatism, emphasizing limited government, fiscal responsibility, individual freedom and stronger public services.

“We do not have a conservative government in Alberta, in my opinion,” he said, criticizing the UCP’s approach to spending, taxation and government priorities. He also questioned the province’s spending on a referendum while making cuts in sectors he said affected public services and vulnerable Albertans.

“The purpose of government is not to simply win the next election, it is to leave Alberta, stronger than we found it,” Guthrie said.

Residents asked questions about separation, health care, education, immigration and income supports for seniors and people with disabilities. The discussion provided an opportunity for attendees to hear the party’s positions and raise concerns about provincial policy.

Guthrie’s visit comes as he seeks support for the Progressive Tory Party, which presents itself as an alternative to the current UCP government. The meeting allowed Camrose residents to hear his perspective on the province’s political direction and the priorities he says should guide its government.

Valerie and Bob Bailey recognized as community builders

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Valerie and Bob Bailey are well known around the community for their warm and welcoming presence.

By Adan Shaikh

The Battle River Community Foundation celebrated Valerie and Bob Bailey and their years of service to Camrose at its annual Community Builders Dinner on October 16.

The evening recognized the couple’s contributions to education, music, the arts and community organizations, as well as the legacy they have created through a BRCF fund established in memory of their son PJ Bailey.

BRCF board director Alex Oliver served as master of ceremonies, with board chair Stephen Kambeitz welcoming guests following dinner. Doug Johnson led the evening’s auction in support of the Foundation.

Alexander Carpenter of the University of Alberta Augustana Campus paid tribute to the Baileys, recalling the welcome his own family received when they arrived in Camrose in 2006.

“The Baileys are the very best kind of Camrosian ambassadors,” said Carpenter. “They were warm, generous and helpful with the wealth of knowledge and pride in their community, which they freely shared and helped us acclimate.”

Carpenter worked closely with Valerie at Augustana and described her as a driving force behind the campus’s fine arts programs and a tireless advocate for arts and post-secondary education.

“She knew how to connect all the pieces to make things happen,” he said. “She never lost sight of the individual and the importance of the human touch.”
Bob spent 38 years with Battle River School Division, sharing his love of music with generations of students.

“As a musician, I know how critical it is to have a very good music teacher during one’s formative years,” Carpenter said. “Bob has set the bar very high in this regard.”

Their daughters, Brittany and Halley Bailey, brought some humour to their tribute. Brittany said, “Although Dad has taught 50 percent of Camrose how to play an instrument…”

“…The other 50 percent have probably been recruited to volunteer for something by Mom,” Halley added.

They remembered a childhood filled with music, singing, games, karaoke and spontaneous performances, while crediting their parents with teaching them to be creative, responsible and involved in their community. They also reflected on how consistently their parents supported their interests while maintaining busy professional and community lives of their own.

The Baileys’ connection with BRCF began earlier, following the death of their nephew Rick Hillaby in an accident. Valerie’s sister and brother-in-law Janet and Jim Hillaby established a fund in Rick’s memory.

When their own son PJ passed away, the Baileys initially asked that donations be directed to Rick’s fund. They later decided to establish a donor-directed fund in their son’s name, carrying forward his legacy by helping others. They raised the remaining money needed to establish the fund through a tribute concert at the Bailey Theatre in May 2012. Featuring performers and teachers who had influenced PJ’s life, the sold-out concert raised more than $7,000 with support from local businesses and the community.

“It is with deep gratitude that we receive this recognition as community builders from BRCF,” the Baileys said. “We accept it in honour of our son PJ and our nephew Rick Hillaby, who have inspired us.”

A gifted performer, PJ participated in piano, voice, dance, instrumental music and speech arts. Trumpet became a particular passion, earning him recognition including the Don Bailey Jazz Award, named for his grandfather. He performed in school bands, provincial honour ensembles and the Camrose Music Festival before continuing his musical studies at Grant MacEwan University.

The evening included a moving performance by the Battle River Big Band in memory of their son.
The tribute to the Baileys ultimately reflected the same values they have spent decades passing on through their work, music, family and community involvement.

Valerie shared that the recognition is not a finish line, but an encouragement to keep giving back.
“This recognition has served to motivate us to do more,” she said. “We see it as not a conclusion of a journey, but as encouragement to continue building, giving and serving as we approach our retirement years with renewed vigour.”

Through their dedication to education, the arts and their community, Valerie and Bob have left a lasting mark on Camrose. Their PJ Bailey Memorial Fund ensures that the legacy of giving back will continue through opportunities to support others for years to come.

One faith, many voices


By Nadine Leming

CityLights Church will be hosting their third annual Rockin’ Worship Night on October 28.

This is an opportunity for local churches and residents to unite for an evening of music and fellowship. Though there will be different denominations in the building, local believers can enjoy common ground in a powerful worship service.

For anyone looking for upbeat, music-driven worship, this will be the place to be. Highly regarded for their energetic community, this evening at CityLights is open to the community. Admission is free for this event.

The doors open at 7 p.m. with the music getting started at 7:15 p.m. CityLights Church is located at 4920-48 Street. Come for a relaxed evening of music, good company, connection, and lifting voices together.

Convicts save Christmas


By Nadine Leming

The Churchmice Players are well known for performances that are produced in impressive style, delighting audiences from all around the region. Their Christmas dinner theatre is a popular choice for those looking to get into the festive spirit.

This year is going to be no different with their production of the Christmas comedy, My Three Angels. The story has been adapted from the 1952 French play La Cuisine Des Anges and has become a mainstay for community theatre groups like the Churchmice.

The story unfolds in Cayenne, French Guiana, against the backdrop of Christmas Eve in 1910. The plot revolves around the Ducatel family who own a declining general store that is in desperate need of roof repairs.

In come the three gentle-souled felons acting as “angels” and are hired to complete the roof work – one is a swindler and the other two are murderers. They discover the family is about to be ruined, so they decide to intervene using their criminal “arts” skills as they try to save the family.

Ian McArthur, the producer on this show, said, “It’s a good show. I would say it’s a little darker comedy.” In reference to the “three angels”, he added, “They’re not against doing similar things (from their past) to potentially help the family.”

He continued, “They mean well, they just don’t always have the best methods, but it’s done in a light-hearted way.” Ian commented, “These shows are always good for staff Christmas parties or client appreciation.”

There are six opportunities to catch this Camrose Christmas tradition: December 3, 4, 5 and December 11, 12 and 13.

Much like Ian stated, this is the perfect way to celebrate the season with staff, clients and customers. Tickets are available online at purchase.baileytheatre.ca

Frozen will melt hearts in Camrose

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From left, Keja Hille plays Anna and Sophie Emmott plays Elsa in the Camrose Composite Playhouse’s Frozen The Musical this November at the LPAC.

By Nadine Leming

Camrose Composite Playhouse is a talented group of students striving to bring high quality plays and musicals to Camrose. This fall they are proud to share their production of Disney’s Frozen to the stage at the Lougheed Performing Arts Centre (LPAC) in November.

Ashley Robson is a teacher at École Camrose Composite High School and works with the students on the show. She said, “We were excited last Spring when we landed on Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical as the musical theatre production for Fall 2026.” She continued, “We knew it would be a popular choice, as everyone knows and loves Frozen!”

Auditions for the production were held this past June and resumed in September with a great turnout of students wanting to participate. Once the cast was decided, rehearsals have been ongoing, three days a week to prepare for the show.

Ashley added, “This year, we were very fortunate to be able to purchase and rent beautiful costumes and puppets from other schools in the Edmonton region.”

What makes this show so special is that students are able to broaden their horizons, allowing their self-confidence to blossom.

Rehearsals have been fun for everyone. Ashley commented, “We sing, we dance, and we laugh together. Let’s just say it’s hard to not sing at the top of your lungs when Sophie (Elsa) is rehearsing ‘Let it Go’ or Hope (Olaf) is da-dumming to ‘In Summer’.”

She voiced, “We also have a running joke that ‘Joel (Sven) already knows all his lines’, though he really does have a big job to do!”

The Camrose Composite Players are ready to cast a spell with Frozen this season. The cast and crew are pouring every effort into delivering an exceptional experience for audiences. They are grateful to the community for the wonderful support they receive.
Frozen The Broadway Musical hits the LPAC stage November 27 at 7 p.m. and November 28 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. This show is sure to exceed expectations of what one might think about a high school production.

Tickets are available at the LPAC box office or online at www.camroselive.ca

Fall and Christmas Market at Mirror Lake Centre


By Nadine Leming

The Camrose & District Senior Centre Society will be hosting their annual Fall and Christmas Market on November 6 at the Mirror Lake Centre.

The market will run between 1 and 5 p.m. featuring live music between 2 and 3 p.m.

With over 40 vendors registered, there will be a great variety of products to choose from. A hot lunch will also be available throughout the event.
Bring the kids as there will be free Christmas crafts and a photo booth with Santa.

For more information, call 780-672-7022 or email camsrsoc@telus.net

Stan Broda’s 1971 Challenger, a sporty classic

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Broda has owned many Challengers over the years, he shared that it’s the styling of the vehicles that he is drawn to.

By Adan Shaikh

Stan Broda owns a classic 1971 Dodge Challenger. He found the model in great condition six years ago, leaving him to focus on a handful of upgrades and cosmetic touches to make it his own.

“I have had about 40 of these over the years,” said Broda. “I enjoy driving all of them. I never keep my cars parked.”

Among the changes were new rims and tires, spoilers and the addition of exterior stripes. While the Challenger now wears a different exterior colour, evidence of its original appearance remains inside.

“It was supposed to have stripes on it, but it didn’t, so I added them. It was originally an orange car and still has its orange interior, so I put the stripes on to make it match with the interior.”

Under the hood is a 340-cubic-inch V8 with an automatic transmission, giving the car both style and speed.

The Challenger arrived for the 1970 model year as Dodge’s entry into the pony car market, and buyers were offered a wide range of engine options and bold colours to include affordable options.

By 1971, the Challenger received noticeable styling changes, particularly at the front end. The model featured a split grille design and revised taillights, giving the second-year Challenger an appearance distinct from its 1970 predecessor.

The 340 V8 was one of the performance engines available in the 1971 Challenger lineup. The small-block engine offered a balance between everyday drivability and the performance expected from the muscle-car era.

Colour was also a major part of Dodge’s identity during the period. Challengers could be ordered in attention-grabbing shades, including several orange hues, complemented by contrasting stripes and other appearance options. Broda’s orange interior is a nod to the car’s original colour scheme even after changes to its exterior.

Broda’s 1971 model remains recognizable for the styling that separated it from other early Challengers.

Broda’s Challenger has changed somewhat over its lifetime, but he has kept the car’s originality in mind while making his additions.

At this point, he is happy with the vehicle as it is as he continues to take it out to as many car shows as possible and drives it as often as he can.

And rather than treating the Dodge as something too precious for the pavement, he continues to enjoy it the way he believes a classic should be enjoyed: from behind the wheel.

Honouring military


Submitted

In the wake of the October 17 tragedy that occurred on the CFB Wainwright base claiming four Canadian soldiers’ lives and injuring dozens more, Camrose Police Service (CPS) expresses heartfelt condolences and gratitude for the continued role these soldiers play in ensuring every Canadian continues to enjoy freedom and liberty.

“On behalf of the Camrose Police Service, I extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and fellow service members affected by the recent tragedy at CFB Wainwright,” remarked CPS Chief of Police John Corbett.

“Our hearts are with those mourning the loss of loved ones, the individuals who were injured, some critically, and the families walking beside them through a difficult and uncertain recovery. We also stand with the broader military community and the community of Wainwright as they navigate an unimaginably difficult time.”

Not unlike police, our military personnel take their duties to citizens very seriously with an overwhelming sense of responsibility and pride.

“As police officers we share a unique connection with our military colleagues through our common commitment to service, sacrifice and the protection of our communities and country,” commented CPS Chief of Police John Corbett.

The close ties between police and the military stem from shared structural foundations, deep rooted history, operational and training overlap that often includes a pipeline of personnel moving from military to policing and a bond of camaraderie as a result of the sometimes traumatic that come with their duties.

“The bond between the Canadian Armed Forces and law enforcement is rooted in a shared calling: a commitment to serve others, often at personal sacrifice and to stand ready when our communities and our country need us most,” said Corbett. “When tragedy touches one of our uniformed professions, it is felt deeply by the other.”

As we approach Remembrance Day, communities across Canada will pause to honour the courage, service and sacrifice of those who have worn our nation’s uniform. The events at CFB Wainwright serve as a powerful reminder that behind every uniform is a son or daughter, husband or wife, parent, friend, or teammate and that every loss is felt by an entire community.

“We are especially proud to have veterans among the Camrose Police Service family. Their continued dedication to public service, leadership and commitment to something greater than themselves enriches our organization every day.

To all those affected by this tragedy, please know that the thoughts, prayers, and support of the Camrose Police Service and the broader Camrose community are with you.”
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Pop stardom meets midlife crisis at the LPAC

Middle Aged Boy Band entertained the crowd at the LPAC on October 17, with energy and hilarious improv comedy. Several audience members were brought on stage to be a part of the show.

By Nadine Leming

Middle Aged Boy Band, some of Canada’s top improv talent, took to Lougheed Performing Arts Centre stage on October 17 and had the audience bursting out in laughter all evening long. They improvised love songs out of thin air and had the audience singing along to some favourite boy band tunes.

The best way to describe the show is Whose Line Is It Anyway? meets the Backstreet Boys. These elite Canadian improv comics may have seemed familiar, as many Camrosians may have seen them as part of The Comic Strippers.

The show was interactive pulling audience members into the fun craziness of the performance. They pulled Evelyn up on stage. Evelyn is from Lacombe and was celebrating her birthday at the show.

She was such a great sport and really engaged with her role. The “band” was waiting for a call to go on tour, so put her on cell phone duty. When the phone rang, Evelyn jumped up to alert the band the call was incoming.

They also pulled her up on stage to do “A Day in the Life of Evelyn” skit. She bought in and fully played her role to a tee. During the intermission, people mingled and shared their favourite parts of the show.

The comics also pulled Chris out of the audience and had him play the part of their choreographer. He was another very eager participant, doing his part to dance on stage with the comedians.

As he was heading back to his seat, the comics mentioned that this wasn’t always their favourite part of the show, but they really had fun with Chris. He was the best participant they’ve had in some time.

Throughout the show, the audience shouted out suggestions for improv bits. The auditorium was filled with laughter, singing and cheering all night long. The feedback from the audience was so positive, with people having nothing but great things to say about the show.

Inside the Camrose Ski Club


By Nadine Leming

The Camrose Ski Club is hosting a Halloween Fun Run that will be a spook-tacular event. Hit the ground running for a stress-free group run beginning at 10 a.m. on October 31. Runners in costume qualify to win a Camrose Ski Club t-shirt.

Like many of their events, runners will know the Ski Club likes to keep things fun for everyone. Dust off the broomstick, dress up like a zombie or don your best bedsheet and meet at the lower level of the Stoney Creek Centre.

Adult ski programs are now open for registration. From first-time skiers to seasoned racers, the ski club has you covered. Adult ski equipment rentals are available for the first time this season. For the first eight registrants who reserve a rental package through Zone 4 registration, the club is offering classic skis, boots and poles.

Beginning November 25, the club is offering eight beginner lessons. It’s a great option to learn the basics and gain confidence on the ski trails. There will also be a three-session Saturday program for anyone interested in an introduction to skiing, helping people to get comfortable on their skis. The dates for this session will be January 16, 23 and 30 from 1 to 3 p.m.

The Camrose Ski Club is in search of an event planner – someone who enjoys bringing people together and creating memorable experiences. Events could include the Calforex Cup, AB Cup, Ole Uffda Loppet or any of their other fun club events. If this sounds like someone you know, reach out to the Ski Club.

Membership and program registrations are also available for the upcoming season. This would be a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys the creek valley regardless of the season. Having an annual membership gives members access to all programs including skiing, biking and running.

Membership fees go towards trail maintenance, maintaining bridges, building fences, keeping equipment in top shape for everyone to enjoy. It also offers a connection to a community of people who share similar interests. There are many other advantages to membership.

For more information, memberships or registrations, reach out to the Camrose Ski Club at skiclubcamrose@gmail.com
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Velora Market grand opening

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

A wonderful new business has opened its doors in Downtown Camrose. Velora Market is a one-stop shop for all the basic household needs. Owner Chen Kun (Monica) held the official grand opening ceremony on October 22.  Mayor PJ Stasko and Councillor Don Rosland attended the event for the ribbon cutting. The festivities included a tea tasting and musical performance by a local artist. The store is located at 4949-50 Street.
 

A new challenge for homeowners in Camrose


By Adan Shaikh

The City of Camrose notified homeowners of potential building code issues involving the distance between homes and the fire protection measures required to prevent flames from spreading between properties, leaving some residents seeking answers about responsibility, costs and possible impacts on their insurance.

The letters concern spatial separation requirements under the National Building Code – Alberta Edition, which places stricter limits on windows, exterior finishes and soffits in certain circumstances to reduce the risk of fire spreading to neighbouring buildings.

Wayne Schnell, a masonry contractor with 40 years of experience and a registered home inspector for 13 years, said he has received several calls from worried homeowners trying to understand what the notices mean for their properties.

“Unfortunately, the only way you’re going to know for sure whether this applies to you is to have a Real Property Report,” Schnell said, noting that windows, soffit ventilation, fireproofing and siding may also need to be assessed.

Schnell raises questions about the City’s oversight during the building permit and inspection process, particularly for homes constructed over the past two decades. Homeowners may now face the expense of determining whether their properties meet the requirements and, if not, what changes are needed.

According to the City, administration became aware of concerns on April 29 this year, after reviewing how spatial separation provisions had been applied to homes under construction in Camrose and other jurisdictions where the City provides safety code services.

The requirements apply to communities where fire services have response times exceeding 10 minutes in 90 percent of cases. Camrose’s Fire Master Plan, published in 2020, identified a 16-minute response time.

The City said the requirements may not have been consistently identified or met since the early 2000s. While building permits frequently referenced 45-minute fire-resistance ratings and closed soffits until 2024, City’s administration believes requirements governing windows and other openings may not have been consistently identified in permits since about 2016.

Schnell said homeowners who purchased their properties from previous owners may have difficulty accessing the documents needed to establish compliance.

He believes the City should assess affected homes rather than leaving homeowners to determine whether a problem exists. He also questioned the guidance directing residents to hire contractors, noting that contractors are not code inspectors and may not have access to the property surveys needed to assess distances from property lines.

The City, however, has stated it will not inspect individual properties or make representations about whether specific homes comply with the code. It says responsibility for meeting building code requirements rests with homeowners, builders and contractors.

Depending on the work required, building permits or variance requests may also be necessary.
Although the City does not plan to enforce compliance in any way, uncertainty remains for owners concerned about potential renovation costs, property values and future insurance coverage.

The immediate concern is determining which homes are affected and whether corrective work is necessary. Until individual properties are assessed at the expense of homeowners, they may not know what, if anything, will need to change.
The City’s information and resources on building separation requirements are available at www.camrose.ca/business-growth/building-and-renovating/building-separation

Witch way to the festivities?

By Nadine Leming, Camrose Booster
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The un-dead have made an appearance at 5444-50 Street. Their display comes with a high scare factor at every look. There is so much to see at this haunted location.
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Things that go bump in the front yard at 5418-53 Street will have people on high alert for Halloween.
15.5
Pumpkins, ghosts, and ghouls run wild at 5406-60 Street, proving that there’s no such thing as too much spooky.
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Double, double, lawn and trouble, the residents at
5440-50 Street cast a spell on their curb appeal just in time for October 31.
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Orange you scared? The residents at 5415-53 St. have their front yard fright lights up for candy seekers.
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Prowling the yard, this black cat stakes its claim in a glowing Halloween yard on 4822-48 Street.
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Ghouls just want to have fun at 6501-54 Avenue in Camrose. The ghouls trade green grass for ghostly glows as October 31 approaches.
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Even the moon is starting to set the stage for Halloween to light the way for trick-or-treaters.

Ghost sightings at the Bailey Theatre


By Adan Shaikh

Camrose has no shortage of tales that can send a shiver down the spine. Stories have long been told of horses heard stampeding down Main Street in the dead of night and the cries of a baby haunting the hallways where the Windsor Hotel once stood. But perhaps no local story has gained quite as much attention as the historic Bailey Theatre.

As Alberta’s oldest theatre, the Bailey has seen thousands of performers cross its stage. According to local historian and genealogy expert Janine Carroll, some may have never left.

“A lot of the theatre people return to where they were the happiest and the Bailey Theatre has always been a magnificent, vital part of Camrose’s social scene,” she said.

Janine, who once led ghost tours through
Camrose, became interested in the City’s history while organizing Founders’ Day events. As her knowledge of local history grew, so did the number of people seeking her out with stories of close encounters they could not quite explain.

One of those stories involves a little girl and a mysterious helping hand, from the early days of when the Bailey Theatre had just reopened in 2011.

On a Friday evening, a theatre employee and a volunteer were preparing the building for another event the following day. The volunteer had brought his two young children with him as they were expecting to be working late that night. “At one point in time, the father told me that the kids were playing hide and go seek and they disappeared for a few minutes,” said Janine.

With the theatre locked for the night, their father was comfortable letting them explore, knowing they could not get outside and would eventually make their way back to the stage.

The boy returned alone, having ditched his younger sister downstairs. Some time later, his little sister, reappeared. Her father asked whether she had become lost wandering through the old theatre.
“No, the nice lady showed me where the stairs were,” she replied.

The adults stopped what they were doing, concerned that someone else was inside the locked building. They searched the theatre, checking its rooms and corners.

They found no one. “They talked to the little girl and asked where did she find the lady. She shared that her brother had left her downstairs and she was just wandering around, looking for a way to get back upstairs, and a lady had said, ‘Here, come with me and I will show you how to get back upstairs’ and took her hand. She said that she could feel her hand in her hand, and they walked up to the stairwell and then the lady told the little girl that she had to go upstairs on her own because she couldn’t go with her,” added Janine.

This story was shared with her by the father of the children.

She mentioned hearing many stories about people meeting the lady. She said a former Bailey Theatre employee often encountered her. Janine also heard from a third party about one occasion when he met the lady face to face.

“One time he was getting off the elevator and, as the door opened in the basement, lights were not on, there were safety lights so he could still see, and what he saw was a lady walking by. The man called out to the lady and as she turned around to look at him, she melted into a fog and disappeared right in front of him. “This happened to him a few times, from what I heard, and he then started pretending that he didn’t see her so she wouldn’t feel that she had to hide from him.”

Another reported sighting shared with Janine was when one of her friends who worked at the theatre invited her to show her something. “She took me to a specific place behind the stage where I could stand and look downstairs into the basement. There was just a little light, like the safety floor lights you see in an airplane so people backstage won’t fall.” As Janine stood in that spot, her friend told her that a person from one of the musicians’ team had been standing right where she was, and when he had looked downstairs as the band was performing, he saw a lady dancing downstairs to the music.

He watched her for a few moments. He watched her throw her hands up to point to the stage and as she did that she turned her gaze to the stage, looked back down and disappeared. The team member noticing her shared that no door had opened for someone to have left the building.
Janine shared that the stories like this are part of what makes the Bailey’s supposed inhabitants more intriguing than frightening.

Being the hub of all art, music and drama in the community, Bailey Theatre wouldn’t be the worst place to spend eternity.
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Camrose Energy donation

Nadine Leming, Camrose Booster

Camrose Energy is committed to giving back to the community. On October 14, Denise Hawkins (left), owner of Camrose Energy, presented a $1,500 donation to David Samm, executive director of the Hospice Society of Camrose.

Dazzled by Darcy


By Nadine Leming

In a world transparent of mystery, there’s nothing quite like the mystique of a Darcy Oake show. He brought his full-scale illusion spectacle to Camrose at the Lougheed Performing Arts Theatre (LPAC) on October 16.

The modern day magician was hooked on magic when his dad showed him a card trick as a child. He tried to figure it out for several days before his dad admitted he had a one in fifty-two chance of getting it correct. That set him on a course that has made him recognized around the world.

It was an evening that the audience experienced together as he disappeared from a glass box to reappear at the back of the auditorium. Throughout the show, Darcy was funny, charming and very personable. It was a great family show.

He even had a magic hat that he said could make whatever was inside double. He put in one ball and pulled two balls out. He asked if anyone in the building had a 50 or 100 dollar bill in their pocket. An audience member came to the stage with a 50 dollar bill, to put it in the hat and received two balls. Darcy did return the money to him later in the show.

The illusions he performed had theatre-goers enthralled all evening. Whether it was a calculator trick that he did with every member of the audience that created the show’s date and time to an illusion that had a duck disappear on stage and reappear in a sealed box held by an audience member, everyone in attendance that night is still trying to figure out.

The Booster’s own Ron Pilger was one of six participants in an illusion. Darcy threw a large beach ball into the audience that went to several random people. Each person was to select a number that meant something to them.

Ron was one of those people that shared a number. The six numbers selected all appeared on a lottery ticket that was in a zippered compartment inside a wallet that was monitored by a gentleman in the first row. Each of the numbers Darcy recorded for everyone to see randomly from around the room appeared on that lottery ticket.
Each illusion was created to challenge people’s perception and question what they were really seeing. His cutting-edge magic placed the focus on what one might think was impossible.

He even created a card trick he did with the entire audience that had everyone shuffle the cards they received at the door randomly, tear them in half, and exchange a piece with another person while sitting on one half of another card. At the end, the last card the audience held magically matched the other half of the card they were sitting on.

Darcy had everyone spellbound from the moment he appeared on stage to the very end. The crowd showed their appreciation with a standing ovation. It was truly a magical evening of entertainment.
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Thriving through uncertainty

Nadine Leming, Camrose Booster

On October 22, the Camrose Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted their second annual Business Symposium. The day included a lineup of speakers giving insight into Thriving Through Uncertainty. From left, Aaron Morris, Chamber executive director; Adam Wilson, Cherry Lane B&B; and Mark Langille, Detention Brewing Co. from Rosalind, sat on a panel talking about business outside of Camrose.

AI Data Centres, big opportunities –
Invest Alberta shares update


By Adan Shaikh
 

Invest Alberta is working on connecting Alberta communities with global investors, and a recent visit to Camrose gave economic leaders from the Battle River Region an opportunity to discuss local opportunities and challenges.

Invest Alberta manager of corporate development Jordan Walker and MLA Jackie Lovely met with regional leaders to discuss how the provincial agency attracts foreign investment, creates jobs and diversifies Alberta’s economy.

“We are the Alberta Government’s investment attraction agency,” Walker said. “We will be six years old in January, so we are just at the tail end of celebrating and making our partners and Alberta stakeholders aware of what we have achieved.”

Since its establishment in 2021, Invest Alberta has attracted more than 76 investments, helped create more than 45,035 jobs and secured 63 active memorandums of understanding with investors worldwide. The agency has offices around the globe, with investment interest coming from countries including Japan, China and India, as well as Europe.

Major projects supported by the agency include Meta’s AI data centres in Sturgeon County and supporting the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence for Aviation and Aerospace in Calgary.
Municipalities can connect with Invest Alberta through a partner portal to share information about their communities, infrastructure needs and potential investment opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, technology, tourism and natural resources.

Walker highlighted the Meta project as an example of the scale of investment Alberta can attract and the trickle effect it can have on economic activity.

“This one you may be aware of already, one of the largest impact investments in Alberta’s history and Canada’s history, the Meta data centre in Sturgeon County,” he commented referring to Meta’s $12 billion investment in Alberta.

The project is expected to create 3,000 construction jobs and 300 permanent positions. Walker said the company is bringing its own power generation through the Greenlight Electricity Centre, following a two-year investment process.

Lovely asked about potential health and resource concerns associated with data centres. Walker said the facilities are required to bring in their own power generation and reuse the water needed for operations. He also pointed to growing investment in carbon capture and removal as companies look to reduce their environmental footprint.

Deep Sky in Innisfail is one example of the emerging industry, operating a carbon removal centre that pulls carbon dioxide directly from the air.

Walker said more data centre projects are in the pipeline, ranging from large-scale developments to smaller facilities, with opportunities for related industries to grow alongside them.

For the Battle River Region, he identified meat processing, peas and canola as potential areas for investment, drawing on the region’s agricultural strengths.

However, infrastructure remains a consideration for businesses looking to establish or expand operations. Walker noted that while electricity is important to industrial development, water availability is another major factor. Camrose’s lack of a secondary water source could limit its ability to attract some new investments, a project the City of Camrose is currently focused on.

The meeting gave leaders from across the region an opportunity to exchange ideas, raise concerns and discuss how to position their communities for future economic growth.
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Libraries Day

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

Camrose Public Library hosted Alberta Libraries Day on October 1. After each screening, executive director Alyssa Martin answered questions and gave community members a chance to understand the changes coming to the libraries across Alberta with the Municipal Affairs and Housing Statutes Amendment Act, 2026. Expert speakers from neighbouring libraries; Kim Snyder, director of the film The Librarians; and several other organizations hosted panel discussions throughout the day, to share the importance of libraries.
 
Bonnie

Reflections

By Bonnie Hutchinson
 

Rising to the occasion
 
It’s just a few days before Hallowe’en, but I’m not thinking about that. I’m still thinking about the two-weeks-ago weekend. You know, the Canadian Forces Base Wainwright weekend. The fire. The deaths. The injuries. The responses.

I have family members who live near CFB Wainwright. All during that weekend, news about the fire, deaths and injuries galvanized my attention. I knew my family members would not be harmed directly. However, I wondered about other impacts, not just on them but on the entire community of Wainwright and district.

I decided not to phone them for a day or two, figuring a phone call would just be a distraction if they were directly involved in some way.
 
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From time to time, I’ve had less than positive thoughts about our Canadian Prime Minister, our Alberta Premier, and the Battle River-Crowfoot Member of Parliament. But during that terrible weekend, I thought all three of them responded impeccably.

The Member of Parliament flew to the constituency, as did the Canadian Ministers of National Defence and Emergency Preparedness, and Canadian Armed Forces Major General.

In their statements later during the weekend, I appreciated the comments of the Member of Parliament, who in July had met some of the soldiers who died or were injured. I also appreciated comments of the Prime Minister and the Alberta Premier, as well as other political and military people who made statements.

Meanwhile, support poured in, not just from the local community but from across the province and the country. Much gratitude to first responders, STARS air ambulance and medical people in Wainwright, Edmonton, Red Deer, Calgary and Saskatoon. They rose to the occasion.
 
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The CFB Wainwright tragedy has made me notice that I hardly ever think about Canada’s military.
Growing up as daughter and niece of two World War II veterans, I sometimes overheard grown-ups talk about how Canadian Armed Forces members “punched above their weight” in Europe. I have faint memories of helping my mom and grandma pack up things to send to “daddy overseas.”

I also have a faint memory of being in my grandma’s kitchen, seeing a tall man in a black leather jacket and hearing someone say, “This is your daddy.” I was about four years old and didn’t remember him from before he left for “overseas” when I was a toddler.

What I also don’t remember is my dad or uncle ever talking much about their time overseas. I think that may be true of many war veterans.

In more recent years, if I thought about Canada’s military, I felt more embarrassed than proud. I was not embarrassed by the military itself, but by our country’s meager contribution to its own defence. I was aware that Canada was not investing as much on defence as NATO expected from its members. I’m glad that in the past year or so, the federal government’s financial commitment to the military has increased.

The tragedy at CFB Wainwright has focussed my attention on our military. I’m taking in the magnitude of what men and women commit to when they join the military. They are agreeing to put their lives in danger, in service to our country.

The CFB Wainwright tragedy did not involve a war. However, it jarred me into thinking about the strength of character it must take to commit to putting your life in danger in service to your country. My respect for the military has increased. That’s a good thing.

I’m grateful that our province and our country have risen to the occasion with their commitments of support to military members during this painful time.

I’m also grateful that federal government and military representatives have committed to reporting the results of the investigation into what factors led to this tragedy. May a similar tragedy never happen again.
 
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I’d love to hear from you. If you have comments about this column or suggestions for future topics, e-mail Bonnie@BonnieHutchinson.com. I’ll happily reply within one business day.