By Murray Green

Behind the scenes, the Camrose Kinette Club is busy preparing for the busiest time of the year–Silent Santa.
Prior to the main event, the club is gearing up for the Countdown to Christmas Toy Drive, on Nov. 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“We are collecting new, unwrapped gifts for those newborn to age 17. As well, we are collecting cash donations,” said club secretary Amanda Dyer.
The beauty of this event is that patrons can drive up and make a donation without leaving their car. The drive will be held in front of Camrose Registry.
“All our club members will be masked and taking COVID precautions during the event,” added Dyer.
The club is also collecting nonperishable food for the food bank during the annual toy drive.
“We work very closely with Neighbor Aid through Silent Santa, so we find it fitting to assist them during the holiday season.”
The group is looking for gifts for all ages, however, the most needed group is those 12 and up.
“These can be difficult years to buy gifts for this age group.”
Gift ideas include hair dryers, pocketbooks, gift cards for fast food restaurants, bowling gift certificates and movie gift certificates.
“Our club uses the monetary donations to buy hygiene kits, colouring books, socks, soccer balls, crazy carpets, pyjama pants, night shirts and watches.”
In the hampers, the club also includes mitts and hats for everyone.
“Everyone deserves to be warm over the winter, and we all know you can never have too many mittens and hats around,” she said.
Once the toy drive has wrapped up, the gifts will be sorted according to age and sex.
“Neighbor Aid does all our intake. We then get a list with the child’s age and sex and we pack according to that.”
The hampers are packed and passed off to the Merry Christmas Fund, who then distributes the toys with the food hampers.
“We are so fortunate to work with Neighbor Aid and the Merry Christmas Fund with this project. We’re grateful for all the work they do to make Christmas merry and bright for everyone.”
The Kinette Club would also like to thank the Swans and Roses Lions Club for delivering the toy hampers to the Firehall.
“Their help every year is so appreciated, they are definitely a cog in the wheel.”
To donate this year, you can drop off your gifts at Superstore, Duggan Mall and Shuman Insurance. Cash donations can also be dropped off at Shuman Insurance.
If you have questions about Silent Santa, call 780-678-4496. The deadline for donations is December 12, but the club will be collecting past the due date. To have your name added to the Silent Santa list, visit www.neighboraid.ca and read the instructions on how to apply. You can also call Neighbor Aid at 780-679-3221. Toys and food hampers will be delivered on December 18 by community volunteers.

By Murray Green

Michael Horon scored in a shootout to lead the Camrose Kodiaks to a 3-2 win over the Grande Prairie Storm in Alberta Junior Hockey League action on November 14.
Grande Prairie scored first and Owen Dean tied the game later in the period. The Storm went ahead again in the second on the only tally in the middle frame.
In the third, Carson Brisson garnered the equalizer for the Kodiaks. After no goals were scored in the third period, a shoot-out took place to determine the extra point.
Goalie Logan Willcott made 24 of 26 saves in the Camrose net. Camrose recorded 29 shots on goal.
The Whitecourt Wolverines scored three goals in the third period to knock off the Kodiaks 4-2 on November 13.
Whitecourt netted the first tally before Graydon Gotaas evened the score in the opening period.
Camrose netted the only marker in the middle frame, coming off the stick of Dean.
Goalie Spencer Welke stopped 28 of the 31 shots he faced, while Camrose fired 34 at the Whitecourt cage.
The Kodiaks are home on November 23 to take on the Olds Grizzlys.
They also host the Bonnyville Pontiacs on November 26, Canmore Eagles on November 28 at 2 p.m., and the Calgary Canucks on November 30.
Holiday truck
The Kodiaks are hosting the Coca-Cola Canada Holiday Truck on November 30 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Recreation Centre parking lot. It has been rumoured that Santa Claus is going to make an appearance to update his Christmas list.
The holiday truck will be accompanied by on-site local musical guests, entertainment and snow globe displays.

By Murray Green

The Duhamel Historical Society held its annual Remembrance Day  service outdoors at the New Norway cenotaph on November 11. The ceremony included a flag-raising by Matthew Trautman and Luke Mills, the Act of Remembrance and names of the local fallen was read by Leigh Kvill, and In Flanders Fields was read by Jane Faught.
Commitment to Remember was read by Grace Trautman and Tanner Mills. Wreaths were laid by president Odean Trautman, long-time Legion member George Calvin and Camrose County Reeve Cindy Trautman.
Songs were sung by Mary Jane and Norman Skretting, an original Remembrance Day poem was read by Scott Enarson, and Why Wear a Poppy read by Marilyn Blair were special features of the ceremony.

By Lori Larsen

On November 14, at an Alberta School Board Association Friends of Education Award ceremony, Battle River Community Foundation was among the award recipients recognized and honoured for their commitment in  improving education for Alberta students and significant contribution to education in Alberta.
BRCF was nominated  as a recipient of the ASBA Zone 4 2021 Friends of Education Award by Battle River School Division (BRSD) for the outstanding and longtime role the Foundation has played in supporting quality learning for central Alberta students.
“We appreciate the Foundation’s ability and willingness to provide support to our Division’s schools and programs,” commented BRSD superintendent of schools Rita Marler. “We also appreciate their understanding and respect for the authority of the school division in determining the most educationally appropriate ways to use those funds and provide programs.”
About BRCF
Battle River Community Foundation is a not-for-profit charitable foundation which was established in 1995, celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2020.
The purpose of the Foundation is to raise funds in order to support communities. The Foundation receives and invests donations, then gives back the annual income to local projects and activities.
Supporting learning
BRCF has been, and continues to be a strong supporter of schools, school divisions and educational programs.
Over the 25 years  BRCF has been operating, the organization has provided more than $1.5 million in financial support to educational institutions and programs.
The first grant made by the BRCF was a scholarship to a student in Battle River School Division in 1996, and since then, BRCF has  given financial support to educational programs and activities virtually every year.
In addition to direct financial aid, BRCF board members have as individuals sought creative ways to entice donors to create scholarships, grants and programs that support education and the wellbeing of students. Thousands of east central Alberta public school students have benefited from the nominee’s actions.
The Foundation has provided students with learning supports such as Chromebooks and musical instruments; supported wellbeing through the provision of breakfast programs, mental health programs and playground equipment; broadened students’ thinking about the environment by supporting watershed education, recycling programs and garden plots; and enabled a smoother transition to post-secondary schooling through provision of scholarships.
A significant portion of the Battle River Community Foundation’s financial support has been given to the Battle River School Division, which is the local school division whose geographic area overlaps most closely with the Foundation, and which has the largest local student population. Support has also been provided to Elk Island Catholic Schools, Clearview School Division and Buffalo Trail School Division.
“We feel very fortunate to have had a sustained, positive relationship with the Battle River Community Foundation,” noted BRSD board chair Karen Belich. “Their ongoing dedication and commitment to supporting education is a meaningful statement in its own right, and their decades of financial support has made many things possible for our students. We are grateful.”
In 2009, members of the BRCF board approached BRSD with the idea of working in partnership to create a summer literacy program (Reading University) for lower elementary children not yet reading at grade level.
Since the program was first offered in July 2009, hundreds of students from across the Battle River area have participated and have been supported, gaining basic literacy skills, confidence and even a love of reading.
In addition to the more than $500,000 in financial support, members of the Foundation have acted as fundraisers and ambassadors for the program, as well as taking a hands-on role in registration events, providing handwritten letters of support to students each year and organizing the program’s ‘graduation’ ceremony and more.
The Foundation has also played a background support role in the development of similar programs in the communities of Red Deer and Grande Prairie.
BRCF’s support for learning extends beyond elementary and high school to include providing post-secondary scholarships which support specific programs at colleges and universities that appeal to local students, including the University of Alberta Augustana Campus, Olds College and Lakeland College in Vermilion/Lloydminster, as well as the University of Saskatchewan Veterinary Medicine program.
The Foundation is a champion of educational programs, but also respects the authority and knowledge of educational organizations to make decisions about program provisions that are in the best interests of students.
Members of the Battle River Community Foundation maintain a positive and collaborative relationship with BRSD, and others.
“Members of the Battle River Community Foundation Board actively seek opportunities to celebrate education and connect potential donors to school programs that might be of interest to them, whether it is in fields such as music/fine arts, mental wellbeing, the environment or programs to support the needs of specific students, such as young moms or those with developmental disabilities,” remarked BRCF current president Kevin Gurr, on behalf of the Foundation.
Battle River Community Foundation has stood the test of time as a vessel for donors to give back to the community. When there is not a pandemic to hinder in-person events, BRCF plays an active role in various aspects of the community. While education is one of the areas they champion, the Foundation also supports other causes, such as health care, community facility upgrades, environmental projects and much more. Their overall goal is to give back to local organizations which help sustain and enhance life in east central Alberta.
BRCF’s support for learning extends beyond elementary and high school to include providing post-secondary scholarships which support specific programs at colleges and universities that appeal to local students, including the University of Alberta Augustana Campus, Olds College and Lakeland College in Vermilion/Lloydminster, as well as the University of Saskatchewan Veterinary Medicine program.
The Foundation is a champion of educational programs, but also respects the authority and knowledge of educational organizations to make decisions about program provisions that are in the best interests of students.
Members of the Battle River Community Foundation maintain a positive and collaborative relationship with BRSD, and others.
“Members of the Battle River Community Foundation Board actively seek opportunities to celebrate education and connect potential donors to school programs that might be of interest to them, whether it is in fields such as music/fine arts, mental wellbeing, the environment or programs to support the needs of specific students, such as young moms or those with developmental disabilities,” remarked BRCF current president Kevin Gurr, on behalf of the Foundation.
Battle River Community Foundation has stood the test of time as a vessel for donors to give back to the community. When there is not a pandemic to hinder in-person events, BRCF plays an active role in various aspects of the community. While education is one of the areas they champion, the Foundation also supports other causes, such as health care, community facility upgrades, environmental projects and much more. Their overall goal is to give back to local organizations which help sustain and enhance life in east central Alberta.

By Lori Larsen

During the City of Camrose November 15 Committee of Whole meeting, administration presented a report on the annual fees and charges Bylaw for 2022, proposing the following changes as per the report.
All fees and charges are proposed to increase by five per cent, based on direction provided by previous council with the following exceptions:
Youth ice rates in effect between January 1 and August 31, 2022 are proposed to stay the same as the present rate in  order  to  maintain  them  at  the  rates  in  effect  between September 1 and December 31, 2021;
Day pass fees for Shinny Hockey, Drop-In Night and the Running/Walking Track are proposed to increase by $1, in order to maintain a round fee that’s easily payable through cash;
Proposed rates for 2022 drop-in fees at the Aquatic Centre have been rounded off to the nearest $0.25 above a five per cent increase;
Rates related to recycling and residential solid waste collection have been left at their 2021 levels;
Assessment Review  Board Complaint Fees  for Residential and Non-Residential over $2 million have not been  increased, as they are  at their legislated maximums.
Administration proposed the following additions:
Under Community Services: Golf Course–Packs, an 18-Hole “Twenty Pack” for $500, as a means of trying to attract more adult golfers;
Under Planning and  Development Services: Development Permits, General Uses–a base  rate of $200 per application has been reinstated  for Industrial applications.
Administration proposed the following removals:
Under Community Services: Golf Course–Golf Passes, the removal of all fees related to the “Super Senior” category and hold the senior rate for 2022 at the 2021 rate;
Under Public Works: Utilities–the removal of fees related to Custom Tapping Services;
Under Public Works–the  removal of fees related  to Ambulance Repairs and Maintenance, Labour without Equipment, and Supervisor’s Labour.
Comments from council
Councillor Kevin Hycha inquired as to whether or not there was an increase in the Pickleball fees.
City of Camrose Community Services general manager Ryan Poole responded, “Based on discussion with previous council, they decided to charge the same drop-in fee as the Community Use Night, because the Community Use fee is increasing from $5 to $6, so too will the Pickleball fee.”
Councillor Agnes Hoveland asked about the Super Senior Golf rates.
Poole replied, “With regards to the Super Senior rate, our proposal there is to eliminate that rate and hold the Senior Rate stable for one more year, to simplify matters.”
Poole added that in an effort to attract more younger golfers (20- to 55-year-olds have lowest numbers for use), the City implemented other packages.
“We addressed green fee payers (who basically said), they can’t afford the roughly $1,200 for adult membership, or they don’t have enough time to justify $1,200. We are trying to draw in that crowd that we are losing because they are too busy to justify a whole season pass.”
Councillor DJ Ilg inquired as to whether or not administration had compared other municipalities’ fees with comparable facilities for recreational use.
Poole said every two to three years, the City does an in-depth comparison, adding that the comparison is not done just on facilities similar to that of Camrose, but also municipalities in similar situations to Camrose, such as travel times to other types of facilities. “That would eliminate facilities in and around Edmonton because they have a lot higher draw, their facilities are in higher demand. So that limits us to comparing to places such as Wetaskiwin, Lloydminster, Stettler or Brooks.”
Ilg asked if the City has ever entertained doing an “all-access” type of pass.
Poole replied. “The Aquatic Pass is an all-inclusive pass. It gives access to either of the two walking tracks, fitness facility and aquatic centre.”
Poole added that while Camrose Golf Course may not have some of the features of golf courses in other municipalities, those municipalities may also not have access to a swimming pool, walking track or fitness facility such as Camrose.
Councillor Ilg further  asked if administration could provide the high-time/low-time usage rates for other municipalities, suggesting because there is not a large gap in Camrose’s high-time/low-time usage rates that perhaps increasing the high-time usage rates and lowering the low-time usage rates may promote more downtime sales.
Poole replied, “The low-time rates are only one of the rates offered during the low times. We also have school group rates, which actually schools take advantage of, and other user rates where the Kodiaks and Vikings get to have essentially the youth rate during the low times to come and practice to use up daytime hours. We actually get quite a bit of use out of both of those teams.”
Poole did say that some user groups have expressed that even if there were no fees, they still would not be able to use the facilities during those downtime hours.
Ilg asked if the rates for all (Camrose) arenas were the same.
Poole said yes. “All that most users require is the ice and change rooms. The quality or quantity of the stands is not as important. The minor hockey groups (City’s biggest user of ice) are just as happy playing in the Border Paving or Max Arena as they are in Encana.”
Ilg asked administration to present to council information regarding user times and peaks and where  the City is experiencing  downturns. “I thought we might be able to potentially come up with some ideas that might help run some different types of promotions to get users in on those downtimes.”
Poole indicated administration could prepare some information for council to consider.
Councillor Don Rosland inquired as to the history on why fees and charges were increased by previous council.
City of Camrose manger Malcolm Boyd said that previous discussion with council at that time regarding what administration was experiencing with regards to fees and rates for  services concluded with council at that time directing administration to consider a five per cent increase across the board and bring it to the next council.
City of Camrose Community Development general manager Patricia MacQuarrie indicated two errors in the report that needed to be corrected prior to it returning to council at the December regular council meeting.
Councillor Kevin Hycha asked if it would be feasible to consider rounding up or rounding down the amounts on some of the rates and fees.
In conclusion, Boyd clarified council’s direction to administration on Annual Fees and Charges Bylaw 3190-21. “I haven’t heard one thing change markedly from what we have shown. We have seen a request to look at some of the (arena) downtimes and I am trying to figure out how we would bring that back to council in a policy-type scenario.
“We can certainly look at that and bring information back to council. The direction from council would be for administration to look for opportunities to provide promotions to eliminate downtimes. I can’t think of another policy where we would have that opportunity to provide that type of direction. If there is an interest in increasing the prime time rate on the arena to encourage people to go to the low rate, that is direction, but I haven’t heard to do that with this, so I just want it to be clear.
“Other than fixing a couple of typos and perhaps looking at some opportunities to get rid of spare change (rounding up or down fee amounts), we would attempt to bring back the bylaw that you have now.”
The Fees and Charges Bylaw will return to Council at  the December 6 regular council meeting for first reading.
For complete details of the report on Bylaw 3190-21 Fees, Rates and Charges for Services Provided by the Municipality, visit the City of Camrose website at camrose.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/60636.

By Lori Larsen

During the month of November, Alcohol Awareness Month, the Camrose CARE Coalition has been providing information on the sometimes sensitive topic of alcohol use and abuse, including alcohol awareness for youth and alcohol awareness for the workplace.
The following information provided by the CARE Coalition focuses on low-risk drinking to support healthy lifestyles.
“National Addictions Awareness Week calls on all of us to learn more about issues related to substance use,” remarked CARE Coalition member Jennifer Willes. “This week is an opportunity to highlight ways in which all Albertans can play a role, big or small, to support one another in living addiction free.”
Approximately 80 per cent of Albertans drink alcohol. “It is embedded in our society. Drinking is a personal choice and people drink for a variety of reasons: to feel better, to combat boredom, to deal with stress, to celebrate, to mourn, to fit in, to forget, because we can’t stop,” explained CARE Coalition member Tammy Richard.
Canada’s Low Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines are designed to help those 25-65 years old who choose to drink to decide when, where, why and how much, to reduce short- and long-term health risks.
According to these guidelines, a standard drink is 1.5 ounces of hard alcohol, 5 ounces of wine, a 12-ounce cooler, or a 12-ounce beer.
“It is also important to recognize that these are low-risk, not no-risk guidelines, and the guidelines set limits, not targets, for alcohol consumption,” said Willis, adding that a person can reduce long-term health risks by drinking no more than:
Women: 10 drinks per week, with no more than two per drinks a day,  most days.
Men: 15 drinks per week, with no more than three drinks per day, most days.
Plan non-drinking days every week to avoid developing a habit.
Willis and Richard both suggested that if you choose to drink, follow these Safer Drinking Tips.
Set limits for yourself and stick to them.
Plan to drink in a safe place.
Drink slowly.
For every drink of alcohol, have one non-alcoholic drink.
Eat before and while you are drinking.
Always consider your age, body weight and health problems that might suggest lower limits.
Follow the recommendations in Canada’s Low Risk Drinking Guidelines.
“Remember, zero alcohol is always the safest in the following situations,” advised Willis.  
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding.
Driving a vehicle or using machinery or tools.
Doing any kind of physical activity.
Living with mental or physical health problems.
Living with alcohol dependence.
Responsible for the safety of others.
Making important decisions.
Richard added that creating alcohol-free connections in the community where you live, work and play will also be effective in reducing risks that accompany alcohol use and support your choice to avoid alcohol consumption.
“Small steps toward wellness can make a big difference to the health of your family, your friends, your co-workers, your community and yourself,” said Richard. “Follow these ways to wellness to take care of your mental and physical health.”
Be kind–Be kind to yourself and others.
Practice gratitude–Embrace a positive outlook on life.
Eat healthy foods–Eat healthy to feel healthy.
Get active–Physical activity can improve your mood.
Be yourself–Appreciate how unique you really are.
Get your groove on–Music soothes the soul.
Laugh–Laughter is medicine for the mind and helps to reduce stress and tension.
If you or someone you know are struggling with substances, telephone 8-1-1, Addiction and Mental Health office at 780-679-1241 or visit AHS online at help intoughtimes.ca. The Addiction Helpline is also available 24 hours a day by calling 1-866-332-2322. Visit edmontonaa.org to find Alcoholics Anonymous, a self-help support group, nearest you.
If you are affected by someone else’s drinking, support and information are available through Al-Anon and Alateen at al-anon.ab.ca.
For more information on alcohol, visit the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction and check out Canada’s Low Risk Drinking Guidelines and the Knowing your Limits with Alcohol: A Practical Guide to Assessing Your Drinking booklet. Tune in to next week’s edition of The Camrose Booster for information provided by the Camrose CARE Coalition on alcohol awareness and older adults.

By Murray Green
Iconic Canadian band The Irish Rovers will be entertaining in Camrose next spring.
The Irish Rovers will be performing at the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre on Wednesday, March 9.
Over the last 55 years, Ireland has felt the impact of The Irish Rovers’ long career of bringing Ireland and Irish music to the rest of the world.
The Irish Rovers formed in Toronto in 1963 and later moved to Calgary. In 1966, The Irish Rovers released their debut album. Since then, they have produced more than 45 albums in North America and many more internationally, with the band’s 2014 album 50 Years being touted as the greatest of their greatest hits.
In 2018, it was the gold anniversary of “The Unicorn” hitting the top of the charts, which took The Rovers from folk clubs of America to concert halls and television sets worldwide.
The Irish Rovers started with the then 16-year-old George Millar and 23-year-old Jim Ferguson, both new emigrants from Northern Ireland. They met in Toronto at an Irish function. They formed the first Irish Rovers for an amateur variety show in Toronto and were the winning entry.
George’s cousin, Joe Millar, then immigrated to Canada as well. Joe, who played button-key accordion, harmonica, and sang traditional ballads, was recruited as he stepped off the plane.
Their homeland now thanks the legendary band in a big way. The Rovers were honoured with an official Mayor’s Reception and sold-out gig in the their hometown of Ballymena, Northern Ireland for all they have done over the years for the music industry, and for promoting Ireland across North America and beyond.
The band released a new album Saints and Sinners in 2020, but had to wait for 2022 to go on tour, which includes a stop at the Lougheed Centre.

By Murray Green

Organizers of the Big Valley Jamboree announced headliners for the July 29 to 31, 2022 event at the Camrose Regional Exhibition.
One of Alberta’s most popular summer music festivals, Big Valley Jamboree in Camrose usually draws about 90,000 music fans to the outdoor site.
The festival opens with a kickoff party on Thursday with Toque, The Road Hammers, Trace Adkins and Dustin Lynch on stage.
Andrew Hyatt, Mackenzie Porter, Hunter Brothers, Terri Clark and headliner Dallas Smith will perform on Friday.
Shawn Austin, Williams and Ree, The Dead South, Hardy and headliner Eric Church are scheduled for Saturday.
Kameron Marlowe,  Michelle Wright, The Washboard Union, James Barker Band and headliner Tim McGraw are slated for Sunday.
 Another act is expected to be added each day at a later date.

By Lori Larsen

University of Alberta Augustana Campus Faculty professor of English Roxanne Harde, along with former Augustana, English major, student Lindsay (Hartman) Yakimyshyn, worked on a book entitled The Legacy Book in America, 1664-1792 features a collection of Legacy texts written by five colonial American women and two girls.
The poignant texts are filled with instructions to the women’s children, or in some cases husbands, biblical passages and comforting thoughts in anticipation of the authors’ possible death.
Harde, who is trained in early American literature, began the book in 2008. “I was just a couple of years into my position at Augustana and I had a Social Sciences Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) standard research grant to work on early American women’s writings. At the same time, I had been interested in legacy books as a women’s genre since my graduate school course work, when I took an early modern British literature course on women’s writings and one of the texts that popped up on that was a Legacy book.”
Harde said that although legacy books are not necessarily written just by women, it seemed women wrote a lot of them through the early modern period, generally while pregnant, with a mindset that they were likely going to die in childbirth.
“I was fascinated with these legacy books,” said Harde, adding that the writings were not just about providing teachings on the physical survival, but the survival of their children’s souls. “These women were all deeply religious.
“And they were incredibly loving. The tone of them was pretty tender all the way through.”
As an Americanist working on the archives for her dissertation, Harde discovered early American legacy books by women.
“I thought this would be a nice offshoot that I could putter away at. I always wanted to do a scholarly transcribing from early text using archival text–early printed books, transcribe the book itself, then drop in all kinds of annotations to clarify what is actually going on in the book.”
Harde explained that the legacy books are filled with religious references and biblical passages. “Almost every sentence can yield up a note for some of these books.”
While working on the project, Harde was joined by Lindsay. “She took a class or two with me. I had this funding, so I hired her to be my research assistant, and out of that came a directive reading that she did with me on these legacy books.”
The two continued to work on annotations and transcriptions until the completion.
“The voices of women and especially girls through the colonial period were silenced,” said Harde.  “These books would be published, almost like a Sunday book manual. Female parishioners would have been told to read these books.”
The first of the legacy books was by Anne Bradstreet, To My Dear Children (1664).
“She was actually the first published writer in the colony. She had been writing poetry her whole life and then immigrated in 1630 after having been in New England for not quite 20 years. Her brother-in-law collected them and took them to England, where they were published by a good publisher.
After Bradstreet’s death, all her poetry was collected by her children and put together, including the mother’s legacy book entitled To My Dear Children.
“It starts with a letter that her children would not have seen until after she died, and a bunch of poems and meditation, including  divine and moral advice for her children.”
Harde said the children copied (handwrote) out the whole book so each would have their own copy. “Two of those copies survived, which were put together in the 1960s.”
Other texts in the book include: Susanna Bell, The Legacy of a Dying Mother to Her Mourning Children (1673); Sarah Goodhue, The Copy of a Valedictory and Monitory Writing (1681); Grace Smith, The Dying Mother’s Legacy (1712); Sarah Demick, Memoirs of the Life of Mrs. Sarah Demick (1792); Hannah Hill, A Legacy for Children (1714); Jane Sumner, Warning to Little Children (1792); Benjamin Colman, A Devout Contemplation on the Early Death of Pious and Lovely Children (1714); A Late Letter from a Solicitous Mother To Her Only Son (1746); and Memoirs of Eliza Thornton (1821).
“After Lindsay and I put the book together, I moved into American children’s literature, and the book sat stagnant for awhile despite favourable peer reviews,” noted Harde.
Eventually, Harde put the book on her website in PDF format and about six months ago, she was contacted by Paul Royster, University of Nebraska Press, Open Access Book arm. Very pleased with the content, Royster asked Harde’s permission to publish the book.
“I have really wanted to have an open access book for quite some time, so everything just fell into place really beautifully.”
As so often happens with authors, working on pieces will trigger very personal emotions and experiences, and researching and subsequently producing this book was no exception. “One of the things it brought to me,” recalled Harde, “I had a miscarriage a really long time ago and I had not really done much with it (in the way of personal healing). It was during those days when a miscarriage was really more of a medical issue and once I was back on feet, there was really no grieving process.
“Reading the tenderness and love and caring in these books actually helped me to write a short essay about my miscarriage, and for me, it was finally the grieving process.” Harde titled the essay, What I Hold and What I Give Away: Miscarriage, Memory and Mourning.
“For me, these texts really inspired how I was able to come to terms with it (the miscarriage) and decide what about that particular experience I would keep with me. It was very much the loving tones, loving kindness, that I saw in these legacy books.
“These women were also letting go of their lives, grieving for themselves and everything they were  not going to get to experience,” expressed Harde.
“I lost all those experiences of this child that would never happen, and they lost all the experiences of mothering a child.”
To read more or to download The Legacy Book in America, 1664-1792, visit digitalcommons.unl.edu/zeabook/110/.

By Murray Green

Camrose County appointed Ross Penner as fire chief of the Regional Fire Hall #2 in the New Norway, Edberg and Ferintosh area.
“I move that Camrose County council, pursuant to the Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG), appoint Ross Penner as fire chief for the Regional Fire Hall #2,” said councillor Carlene Wetthuhn.
Three deputy chiefs were also named on November 9 at the regular County meeting.
“I move that Camrose County appoint Jon Rosland, Klayton Kragnes and Larry Baerg as deputy fire chiefs for the Regional Fire Hall #2,” added councillor Doug Lyseng.
“In August 2021, Camrose County administration advertised the position of fire chief in local newspapers, on social media and to all current members of the three departments, Edberg, Ferintosh and New Norway, which are being amalgamated at the end of November,” explained  Protective Services manager Mike Kuzio.
He met with the potential candidate, discussed the situation with senior administration and made the offer.
“The candidate then met with administration and the local councillor to discuss the position and some potential outcomes.  Following that meeting, the offer was accepted,” added Kuzio.
The Round Hill Fire Department (#1) and Regional Fire Hall #2 are under the direction of and managed by Camrose County for the provisions of fire and emergency services within the corporate limits of the Hamlet of Round Hill, the Regional Fire Hall #2 Fire District and designated areas within Camrose County.
The Round Hill Fire Department and Regional Fire Hall #2 operating guidelines are issued under the authority of Camrose County.
The three fire halls are expected to merge into the new site east of Ferintosh over the next few weeks.

By Lori Larsen

Pull over for the Police and a good cause on December 4, as Camrose Police Service and Camrose/Wetaskiwin RCMP once again host the 15th Annual Charity Checkstop from noon until 3 p.m. on the 48 Avenue eastbound service road in front of Camrose Registry.
They will be accepting monetary donations, gift cards, non-perishable food items and personal care supplies to assist Camrose and District Victim Services, The Open Door and Camrose Women’s Shelter.
Monetary donations will be used to train advocates to aid victims of crimes and tragedy in Camrose area.
“There are a lot of people in need,” commented Camrose Police Service  Crime Prevention, Community Relations officer Constable Kelly Bauer. “Last year was our most successful Charity Checkstop to date, and we are looking forward to another strong turnout by the generous people in Camrose and area.”
Food and personal care items will be donated to assist those individuals turning to both The Open Door and Women’s Shelter for help.
“The Open Door is so excited to be part of the Charity Checkstop again this year,” noted The Open Door executive director Jessica Hutton. “The Charity Checkstop provides amazing and important support to the youth in our community.”
Hutton added that each year, the donations received by The Open Door go directly to the youth within the community and last for months.
“We are so thankful to the Camrose Police and RCMP for organizing and operating this event that so greatly benefits so many individuals.”
Camrose Women’s Shelter executive director Nora-Lee Rear also expressed gratitude for the much-needed assistance from the Charity Checkstop. “Over the past 18 months, the Camrose Women’s Shelter has had to reinvent our services to meet social distance requirements, yet respond to victims of domestic violence and abuse, just like a pandemic never existed,” said Rear.
“Events like the Charity Checkstop remind us that no matter what, kindness and connection to each other will always prevail.  Thank you, Camrose and area, for always remembering your neighbours and helping the shelter to create a community where all people are free from violence and abuse,” said Camrose Women’s Shelter executive director Nora-Lee Rear.
The Charity Checkstop will be following guidelines to help stop the spread of COVID-19, and ask everyone to remain in their vehicles and kindly wear a mask.
One of the best gifts we can give this season is the gift of helping others. Organizations such as Camrose and District Victim Services, The Open Door and Camrose Women’s Shelter, along with many others, continue to provide support, services, programs and basic needs to those who are vulnerable and in great need in our communities.
Take a little side trip  towards the flashing lights to make a donation and thank the members of our police services for volunteering year after year to make the lives of others better.

By Murray Green

The Camrose Buffaloes peewee team captured the Capital District Minor Football Association championship trophy.
The Camrose Buffaloes Peewee team finished off their season by going undefeated and took their divisional championship on Sunday at Johnny Bright Stadium in Edmonton.
The peewee squad defeated the Wetaskiwin Warriors by a score of 61-8.
“Seven touchdowns were scored by a multitude of players on a snowy turf field. Defensively, the Buffaloes only gave up four touchdowns all season. Offensively, they averaged over 50 points per game. Congratulations, team, on an unreal season,” said coach Brad Berger.
The bantam team fell just short against the Fort Saskatchewan Falcons.
“Not the end to a great year that we were looking for, but the players worked hard and I have never been more proud of a team I have coached. We have been a very strong-throwing team and had problems completing the pass on Sunday due to more snow than anticipated. The Falcons are a great team, and we knew going in it was going to be a battle, and we just didn’t click on Sunday enough to shut down their quarterback running game. But watching this group of players get us to the final was an experience I was glad I was a part of,” said coach Troy Christie.
The Capital District Minor Football Association hands out awards following each season.
“I am proud to announce that our peewee team was awarded the Peewee Mills Division Offensive Team of the Year, Defensive Team of the Year, and Coach of the Year was awarded to Brad Berger,” said Buffaloes president Kim Kienitz.
“The 2021 season is over, and we are already gearing up for next year. We are excited to be part of the CDMFA Spring Flag Football season that will run in late spring 2022. The Spring Flag season will be open to all youth ages eight to 14. This is a great opportunity for both experienced players to hone their skills, and for new players who either want to learn about football, or to participate in a non-contact sport,” Kim added.
More information will be posted on the website and social media in the new year. Fall 2022 will once again have a full lineup of tackle teams for youth aged eight to 15, as well as the return of the Novice Flag division for six- to eight-year-olds.
“We are looking for volunteers to expand our coaching base at all age groups for tackle and flag teams. No previous experience is required. There is also a need for officials for our atom division. Coaching clinics and official training courses will be offered in the new year.”
For more information, watch the Buffaloes website and social media or contact them at president@camrosebuffaloes.com.

By Murray Green

The Augustana Vikings women’s cross-country running team of Reese Bendiksen, Caitlin Debree, Makayla Sheppard, Chloe Funnell, Serena Isley and Mia Spreen earned the CCAA National Championship bronze medal. Augustana went against the nation’s best runners championship in Calgary, hosted by St. Mary’s University.
Over six kilometers,  Bendiksen led the Vikings to bronze and placed fifth overall with a time of 23:38. Augustana runners Debree came in 14th (24:39), Sheppard was 40th (26:12), Funnell placed 47th (26:30), Isley finished 82nd (28:25) and Spreen came in 91st (31:22) to complete the team.
The men’s team finished in 10th place at nationals. Leading the group was Nathanael Tabert, who crossed the line in 20th place with a time of 27:33.
Vikings members completing the race were Ben Nawrot in 37th place with a time of 28:43, Samuel Nawrot in 40th spot  (28:49), Jonas Stoll-Pott  in 65th (32:14), Ewan Schellenberg in 77th (32:37), and Dominic Schellenberg in 88th place (39:14).

By Murray Green

The Camrose Crush climbed to the top of the North Central Senior Men’s Hockey League standings with a 6-2 victory over the Red Deer Rustlers on November 13.
The Rustlers pounded Camrose netminder Connor Dobberthien with 51 shots, but he turned away 49 of those shots directed his way.
Red Deer scored first, but then Dobberthien shut the door until the last minute of the contest.
Dillan McCombie and Tanner Korchinski, on a power play, scored for the Crush to take the lead before the opening period ended.
In the middle frame, Dylan Wallace, McCombie on a power play, Korchinski and Ryley Bennefield padded the lead.
Camrose fired 29 shots at two Red Deer goalies in the contest.
Camrose hosts the Bonnyville Pontiacs beginning at 8:45 p.m. in the Max McLean Arena on November 20.
Camrose is also home to the Morinville Kings on December 11 starting at 8:45 p.m. in the Max McLean Arena.

By Murray Green

Bashaw RCMP, with the assistance of Emergency Medical Services, responded to a single vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 21 and Highway 611 in Camrose County on November 9 at 3:45 a.m.
Preliminary investigation revealed that a grey van was travelling eastbound on Highway 611, when it failed to stop at the intersection of that highway and Highway 21. The van came to a stop on the east side of the railroad tracks.Both occupants of the van, a 47-year-old female from Ponoka and a 50-year-old male from Maskwacis, were pronounced deceased on scene.
RCMP Police Dog Services, the RCMP Collision Analyst and CN Police attended the scene.
The cause of the collisions is still under investigation.  If you have any information in relation to the collision or if you saw the grey van and occupants anytime between November 8 at 9 p.m. and November 9 at 3:45 a.m., contact Bashaw RCMP at 780-372-3793.

By Murray Green

Eight Alberta romance writers have combined their talents to publish an eight-novel collection under a single title: Hugs, Kisses and Mistletoe Wishes.
The idea started during the pandemic, when author friends held weekly Zoom meetings to share creative advice, educational moments and moral support.
“Meeting in a virtual Christmas during last year’s lockdown, a plan to create a memorable volume of romance stories gained momentum,” shared local author Raine Hughes. “I’d never been part of a joint anthology before, but it sounded like a wonderful idea per those who’d been part of such fun projects before. I’m into fun, so I signed up right away and got to work. It was so exciting.”
Romance novels can range from cozy to sexy, and follow the genre standards with historical, contemporary, western and fantasy. In keeping with the season, the eight writers decided to go with “sweet romance”, the kind of charming feel-good love stories that everyone from teens to grandmothers will enjoy.
The group agreed on a giveaway price of 99 cents for all eight books in the digital collection–their gift to romance readers everywhere.
Romance is the most popular fiction genre, with millions reading tales of love every day around the world (and contrary to popular opinion, 16 per cent of them are men).
The collection is described as: “Straight from our hearts to yours, eight enchanting love stories to enjoy during the holiday season and all year long. Each contains a romantic ‘mistletoe moment’ and an uplifting, happily-ever-after conclusion.”
“I love sharing the joy and romance, and the uplifting spirit of the season, with my readers,” said Hughes, who has written several other novels. “The Christmas anthology was a fun project for us and a great way to give something back to our readers everywhere.”
Hugs, Kisses and Mistletoe Wishes is a Sweet Christmas Romance Collection. Celebrate the magical holiday season with this special gift straight from the authors’ hearts, eight enchanting love stories to cherish all year long. Rekindle your love of the holidays with these heartwarming romances.

By Lori Larsen

Dealing with mobility challenges can be frustrating in itself; add to that barriers to accessing equipment, and it can greatly impact a person’s quality of life.
Recognizing a need in Camrose and area for immediate access to mobility equipment, a group of volunteers have begun the process of initiating the Lending Place Battle River Region, a not-for-profit organization, aligned with the Canada Health Act, that provides mobility related equipment and services.
The concept of materializing an organization began in 2004, with a support group for residents and families in long-term care, committed to needs-identification and working together in creative ways.
Throughout the years, the group made every effort to align with the Canada Health Act and its five pillars: accessibility, affordability, appropriate, universality and portability.
After a 2012 conference dedicated to Culture, Creativity and Place that brought rural people together to explore working together as Indigenous, Settler and New People, the group became more focused on rural renewability.
The work continued and began building off the model of the Lending Cupboard in Red Deer, eventually establishing the Lending Place Battle River Region (BRR) organization, which is a project of the Association for Life-wide Living (ALL) of Alberta, allowing access to charitable status.
“The Lending Place Battle River Region would offer the short-term loan of necessary mobility equipment,” explained Lending Place BRR organizer Julie Girard.
Working with the Red Deer organization has not only afforded the Lending Place Battle River Region access to the ins and outs of the process of setting up, but a lot of the structural processes including computer programs, tracking systems and administration of the organization.
Recently Dawna Morey, director of the Lending Cupboard Red Deer, reached out to the Battle River Region organization, offering assistance with the starter equipment.
“We can also work with the Lending Cupboard in Red Deer and other related entities to get access to their inventory,” said Girard.
Girard said that in order for the initiative to be successful, there must be a degree of sustainable funding. “At the end of the day, this initiative will be driven by community, which will help fund it,” said Girard, who added that conversation with other organizations and individuals within Camrose and area, such as Service Options for Seniors, Alberta Health Services, Camrose Chamber and local suppliers, has all been positive.
“We have already started getting donations of equipment. Now we need a space to work out of and house the equipment. Initially a space of 1,000 to 1,500 square feet with water would be ideal.”
Girard said that while Home Care Services does an amazing job at providing in-home care for those in need at their own comfort levels in their own homes, the Lending Place Battle River Region is filling other gaps.
“The Home Care system is on board with this initiative,” said Girard. “They are overwhelmed with hundreds of patients and they don’t have enough resources.”
The equipment lended out by the Lending Place includes, but is not limited to, wheelchairs, walkers, canes, hospital beds, lifts, movable toilets, raised toilet seats and armrests, transfer benches, bath seats and grab bars.
All the equipment taken in by the Lending Cupboard is disassembled (where feasible), put through a thorough cleaning and sanitizing process, repaired if able and necessary, and put back together, then inventoried.
Equipment or other items deemed unusable do not become part of the Lending Place inventory.
For so many people who find themselves caring for loved ones and not wanting to place them in long-term care, the Lending Place is filling a need to ensure that the ones in need stay in their own homes, and their caregivers can provide for them in their homes with equipment specific to their needs.
“Nearly 70 per cent of seniors live at home,” quoted Girard. “And they are looked after by the others, whether that be family, friends or in-home services.”
The Lending Place Battle River Region organization’s mandate is to work with clients to create an environment where every person feels welcomed and valued, to implement processes and procedures that ensure client safety and satisfaction, and ensure that those who have mobility challenges have access to equipment that will meet their individual needs.
Relating her own personal story of the need for accessibility to equipment, ALL president Jane Ross said that getting help that is needed often takes time.
“Following Jack’s (Jane’s husband) discharge from hospital after a  brain hemorrhage, many things were needed immediately,” remarked Ross. “When the items were not available locally, the Flewwellings of Red Deer introduced us to the Red Deer Lending Cupboard, and within two days, we had everything needed so Jack could come home to live.”
Not only did the Lending Cupboard Red Deer provide the much-needed equipment, but they delivered it immediately to the Ross’s home outside of Camrose, eliminating what could have been a lengthy wait.
“Alberta Health Services has funds available to purchase equipment,” explained Girard. “But it has to be ordered and that can take anywhere from three months up to a year.”
Lending Place fills that gap and in many instances, when a piece of equipment is only required for a short period of time, will inventory it out, then take it back, process it through stringent cleaning and sterilizing, then have it ready to go for another person in need.
In addition to the benefits to those in need of equipment, the community will benefit from recycling existing equipment that is no longer needed and intercepting it, possibly ending up in landfill.
“We want to work with municipalities to salvage and re-purpose mobility items as well,” noted Ross, explaining that the organization has a goal to work with municipal landfill organizations on educating the public on options for recycling equipment that can be used by the Lending Place, rather than disposing them in landfills.
For those caring for someone requiring more long-term needs for equipment and ultimately purchasing their own, the Lending Place offers them an option of donating the equipment to the Lending Cupboard when it is no longer needed. “It is a win/win situation,” said Ross.
Lending Place is also able to accommodate the growth of the needs of those requiring equipment.
Camrosian Janet Enns related her own story about the need for such an organization for all ages.
“My grandson, for a period of time at two years of age, when children are really developing their ability to pick up language, lost his hearing (and subsequently language skills), due to a hidden infection.”
Through conversation with family and friends, the family discovered a treatment involving a software program to assist in learning language, speaking and hearing.
“He is now in grade one  and is very good with numbers, but he doesn’t understand letters, and didn’t speak or hear well. He has worked with speech therapists, which has helped, but he is way behind.”
This software program, based on the work of neuroplasticity, requires the use of an iPad, which  was difficult for the family to access. The Lending Place can provide items such as iPads that may only be required for short periods of time, saving the family the added expense at a time when it is needed most.
The Lending Place will rely heavily on the goodwill of volunteers who can offer their expertise, skills and time in specific areas of interest to them and on their own time.
“Volunteers can be, and often are, people who are retired from their professions, but want to give of their skills in a volunteer way,” said Girard. She cited examples of retired mechanics who come in a few times a week to repair equipment; carpenters who assist in building shelving for storage or ramps for those in need; computer savvy individuals who assist with the inventory and administrative processes; grant writers; fundraisers who assist with funding; and a slew of others willing to give of their time. “There are a lot of people with a lot of skills that can be tapped into,” said Girard.
Beyond the tangible aspect of the Lending Place to make necessary equipment accessible during crucial times in peoples’ lives, the mandate of the organization is directly in line with the Canada Accessibility Act that identifies the need for rethinking Canadian society and the imperative to remove barriers of many kinds.
“The Canadian Accessibility Act has allowed for grants specifically for accessibility,” said Girard
Following on the ALL mission statement of, “Inspiring creativity for health through our landscape, our communities and the arts”, the Lending Place Battle River Region, as Ross would say, “It’s the doing that does it”, is getting things done.
On a final note, Girard said it is about building culture, creating connections and a mindset of working together to provide for communities.
For more information on the Lending Place Battle River Region, email the  Lending Place Battle River Region at thelending placebrr@gmail.com or contact Julie Girard email Juliegirard6460@gmail.com or by telephone at 780-678-9246.

By Lori Larsen

Downtown Camrose is happy to be bringing back the excitement of Midnight Madness on Friday, November 26, and all of the charm that comes with shopping under the twinkling stars and the beautifully lit trees that line 50 Street.
At 6 p.m., be sure to take in the tree lighting located at the north end of 50 Street.
Enjoy the sound of hooves on the pavement and take in the sights of beautiful downtown with an old-fashioned horse-drawn wagon ride between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. All rides must be prebooked online at www.downtown camrose.com.
Listen to the melodious sounds of the United Church EmBellish bell ringers at one of two performances at 5:50 p.m. or 6:10 p.m., in between shopping at one of the many unique shops located in Downtown Camrose.
Don’t forget your Stamp Around booklet and support local this holiday season.
Residents are reminded to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Mask-wearing is mandated by the Provincial government in all indoor spaces and while moving about, please social distance.
Start the holiday season with a trip to Downtown Camrose for special events, special gifts and the special feeling that comes with the season.

By Murray Green

Camrose County council agreed to help sponsor the 35th edition of the Canadian Bull Congress on January 21 and 22, 2022, but left the details up to administration.
The County has been one of the strong supporters and major sponsors of the event since its beginning. However, the event was cancelled last year because of COVID-19 restrictions.
“I move that council direct administration to finalize the details of the Signature Events Sponsorship Agreement with the Camrose Regional Exhibition for the 2022 Bull Congress,” said councillor Doug Lyseng, at the regular meeting on November 9.
The 2022 sponsorship amount of $8,500 was set in the budget for 2021 (as the funds are dispersed in 2021). Due to COVID, the format of the Bull Congress has been adjusted and the CRE wanted some input from council on what the benefits of sponsorship (roles of the County as sponsor) will be.
The sponsorship agreement between Camrose Regional Exhibition and Camrose County was made on October 28. “I would like to have the County sponsor Saturday, rather than Friday as they have in the past. Council can still help serve breakfast and they will have full sponsorship of the Pen of Three event,” said CRE executive director Dianne Kohler.
“Because of COVID-19 and passport restrictions, I expect about a 20 per cent drop-off of attendees. That is standard across the board for trade shows and conventions. During our year off, we examined how we could improve things and make it fresh again. We want it to be the number one bull sale in the country,” she said. “We pulled out the children’s education program and that will be its own event in February.”
The County will also arrange for coffee and treats to be served out of the ringside booth on Saturday. In return, Camrose County will receive a pop-up ringside networking booth and signage at the charging station for devices in the Garden Court, will put up pull-up banners and literature on coffee tables and have a booth in the main arena for the duration of event, will be the title sponsor for the Pen of Three Show, and will receive complimentary Taste of Beef Banquet tickets and complimentary show admission.

BIRTHS
- To Anna and Frank Wall, of Vegreville, a son on November 12.

DEATHS
- Peter Damien Morrissey of Bawlf, on November 3, at 73 years of age.
- Steven Christopher Mitro of Grande Prairie, on November 9, at 34 years of age.
- Mary Grams of Camrose, formerly of Hay Lakes, on November 13, at 88 years of age.
- LaVern Lawrence Roux of Camrose, on November 14, at 82 years of age.
- Cheryl Lee Shold of Camrose, on November 15, at 58 years of age.
- Trausti Welsey Tobiasson of Camrose, on November 15, at 49 years of age.
- Theresa Annette Gonty of Red Deer, formerly of Belleview, MB, on November 16, at 91 years of age.
- Barry Dorscher of Beaver County, on November 16, at 54 years of age.
- Rod Lindberg of Camrose, on November 17, at 90 years of age.
- Neil Whetstone of Camrose, on November 17, at 61 years of age.
- Dale George Cromarty of Camrose, formerly of Birch Hills, SK, on November 18, at 75 years of age.