Columns & News

Shirley’s Helping Hands puts food on all tables

The Free Spaghetti Supper team presented gift cards to Shirley’s Helping Hands to thank her for her ongoing commitment towards reducing food insecurity in Camrose. From left, Barry Phillips, Bonnie Cooke, Freda Cherrette, Shirley MacDonald, Gilbert Cherrette, Holly McIndoe and Anne Lilke.

By Adan Shaikh

Shirley MacDonald has been recognized by Camrose MP and Leader of the Opposition Pierre Poilievre for her dedication to improving food security in the Camrose community. Shirley’s Helping Hands, is an operation that started out when a concerned resident noticed a problem in the community and decided to do something about it.

“It started about seven years ago, when I first moved here. I saw that there were a few homeless people around and I decided to go home and make some sandwiches and take them out to them. Then I had some seniors who had heard about me, asking me if I had any extra food. So I started getting a hold of stores and started asking them what they do with their food before it expires and then I started getting that. Now I have this huge place for all these people on Saturdays where they can come and help themselves,” said Shirley MacDonald.

Shirley’s Helping Hands now operates as a place where individuals can access food support, with MacDonald coordinating donations and distribution after connecting with local stores about surplus food that would otherwise go unused. Shirley shared how the need for food supports has grown tremendously in the last few years.

“The need is great for our seniors, I see a lot of seniors who don’t have food,” she explained. “The Moose Hall gives us spaghetti and meat sauce and I make them up into containers for them to eat. If we get a roast, I make them up with mashed potatoes and gravy and the Hutterites are amazing to us and Twists and More gives us bread and desserts. Safeway helps us and we travel to Edmonton, to drug stores, to Save-On-Foods and we go up there a couple times a week,” shared Shirley.

“I have more families calling me, and both of the parents are working, but there is no cap on our rent,” she added.

Her support surpasses food supports. She also collects clothing and holiday baskets for children and families in the community to ensure everyone feels supported and taken care of.

Shirley’s Helping Hands embodies community care and her services are filling a continuously growing gap in Camrose.

“God put it upon my heart to do it, and so I do it,” she said.

Anyone needing assistance or wanting to support the organization through donations, can contact Shirley MacDonald at 780-581-8211 or by email at sam19601@hotmail.com

Mirror Lake Express returns home

By Adan Shaikh

The Danielson family has purchased Jeppa the Train back from the Camrose and District Chamber of Commerce. The announcement was made on May 6 during a Chamber luncheon by board president Jennifer Fossen.

The small locomotive, enjoyed by the community every summer around Mirror Lake, was originally built by the late Jeppa Danielson, a Camrose resident who wanted to create something that brought joy to the community. The train lived out that vision, by carrying hundreds of families year after year, adding to their summer memories.

Its return to the family follows the Chamber’s decision last month to discontinue its operation due to safety, financial and maintenance concerns.

“On April 8, the Chamber announced that we will be ceasing operations. Since that time, the next steps for the train were carefully considered and a decision by the board was made to see the return of the Mirror Lake Express back to the Danielson family,” said Fossen.

She said the decision was made with the train’s history and community significance in mind.

“This decision reflects the significance of the train’s history and the legacy within our community and was approached with the intent of ensuring a respectful and appropriate path forward,” she said.

According to the Chamber, the transaction was under $50,000 and did not require membership approval under its Major Decisions and Changes Bylaw. The board approved and completed the transfer, with the train returned to the family on May 4.

This move officially closes a cherished chapter in the history of Camrose.

Elks and Royal Purple move on to the next chapter

The Camrose Elks and Royal Purple drew the winners for their fifth annual cash raffle. Doug Daly won $2,500, Irene Perreaux won $1,000, and Dean Webb won $500. From left, Dale Lyle, Chris Thauberger, president Gerry Czapp and Ken Rispler.

By Nadine Leming

The Camrose Elks Lodge No. 70 has been an important part of the community since 1924. As an organization that includes the Royal Purple, they have hosted events, volunteered, and handed out donations. The Camrose Elks and Royal Purple have contributed to the community in many ways over the past century.

They are also known for their charity work and efforts helping children struggling with hearing and speech issues.

Over the years, they’ve donated over $200,000 to worthy community programs, sports teams and families in need. In 1941, the Elks worked on a special project known as the Elks Park. They planted trees and shrubs as well as seeded grass. The park has since been renamed as Jubilee Park.

The building that they have called home for decades has been sold with the new owners taking possession on May 25. This means that the Elks and Royal Purple are also looking for space to meet.

Prior to the new building owners’ take-over, they need to sell the contents of the building. The sale begins on May 15 at 10 a.m. in the basement of the Elks Hall at 4702-50 Avenue, Camrose. The sale will continue for three to four days or until everything is sold.

For information about the sale, reach out to Gerry and Marion Czapp at gmczapp@cable-lynx.net

End of an era for the Lions

By Nadine Leming

The Camrose Swans and Roses Lions Club has officially wrapped up as a long-time service club. They originally started in 2009, with a good number of members.

Over the years, membership has dwindled due to members retiring and moving on to other activities such as spending time with family, travelling, or “snowbirding” in warmer regions.

For the club, it’s been difficult to recruit new members.

Sheralyn Dobos, former Lions member, said, “The national trend is not long-term volunteerism. People are more attracted to event-based experiences where they can volunteer for a few days or a weekend.”

As part of the requirements for shutting down a service club like the Swans and Roses, they had to disperse the remaining funds in the club’s bank account. A committee was formed to recommend the most effective way to hand out the money to worthy community organizations.

Ken Dobos, former Club President, commented, “We handed out about $40,000 in cheques to various non-profits such as the Hospice Society, Rose City Handivan and the Kinettes Silent Santa.”

The other non-profits that received funding were Camrose Helps, Battle River Lending Place, Loyal Order of Moose, Camrose Neighbor Aid Center, the Camrose Women’s Shelter, Christmas Cheer Fund, the Royal Alexandra Eye Research and S.T.A.R.S.

One of the many worthy charities that received money was the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides who directed the Camrose club’s donation to a Facility Support Team with the Zebra Child and Youth Advocacy Centre of Edmonton.

These specially trained dogs comfort child victims or witnesses of a crime or tragedy or give support to them disclosing difficult information to police for crimes such as child abuse or sexual assault. These are just a couple of things these amazing dogs can do.

Over the years, members like Ken and Sheralyn enjoyed a variety of fundraising efforts that allowed them to give back to our community such as parking cars for special events with Lindstrand Auctions, Camrose Flying Club and hosting Canada Day breakfasts in partnership with Hospice Society of Camrose and District.

Another popular fundraiser for the organization was the Christmas Tree Lot, which may continue to serve Camrose and area if another local non-profit host can be found.

Other memorable ways the club has served this community include the creation of a popular firewood project, selling Christmas nut trays, Grey Cup Pool tickets, organizing an annual garage sale, serving at occasional casinos and running a concession at Lindstrand Auctions pre-Covid era.

Camrose may be seeing the end of a chapter in our community’s history, but the Camrose Swans and Roses Lions Club can be proud of the thousands of volunteer hours they delivered and the money they raised to support some deserving local causes.

Economic Developers Alberta recognizes Boddy for her efforts

Maven Boddy is the mind behind making Camrose an attractive tourist destination.

By Adan Shaikh

Maven Boddy, tourism and marketing coordinator with the City of Camrose, has been recognized by Economic Developers Alberta as the 2026 Emerging Talent in Economic Development.

Maven has worked with the City of Camrose for over three years and has made tremendous contributions towards making Camrose a prime tourist destination and a place where the community is engaged and thriving.

The award recognizes her work in taking on a wide range of responsibilities early in her career, including developing strategies, building tools and resources, and representing the community at conferences across Canada and internationally.

Her approach was noted for initiative, taking ownership of projects and building relationships.

“My background is in economics and I worked as a whitewater rafting guide for a couple of summers, so this job brought together my economics background and my tourism background – like this job was made for me,” shared Maven.

She said the variety of work is one of the aspects she values most. “I love the diversity of what I get to do every single day. Some days I’m working in Excel spreadsheets and making formulas and doing financial analysis and projections. Sometimes I’ll be analyzing Key Performance Indicators (KPI) for our division or department and other days I get to be super creative and collaborative.”

Maven said her focus has been on strengthening tourism experiences in Camrose by building upon existing assets such as trails, golf courses, events and theatre.

“In Camrose, we identified that we have a lot of tourism assets. All the golf courses, the amazing trails, there are lots of things that draw people to Camrose like the events and theatres. But there’s not a lot of support and experiences for people to do, so we wanted to expand the experiences that people can have,” she explained.

She said the goal has been to give visitors an opportunity to connect with Camrose through planned experiences rather than self-guided tours.

“We got a grant from the Government of Alberta for our tourist opportunity profiles and then we had these amazing contractors come in to talk to lots of different community groups and residents,” she explained.

That work has led to the identification of 10 tourism opportunities described as investment-ready, based on market research and gaps in current offerings. Maven said the intent is to enhance experiences for both visitors and residents and there are several plans already underway to execute that vision.

She said receiving the recognition was meaningful given the work being done across the province. “It was really, really special. There’s a lot of really great people across the whole province, doing really wonderful things and so to be honoured, in this way, is pretty special.”

In addition to Maven’s achievement, the City of Camrose was also recognized by Economic Developers Alberta, with the Innovative Approaches to Economic Development award.

These accomplishments highlight that Camrose truly is a community brimming with opportunities and potential.

Edward Chartrand’s 1957 Chevrolet Task Force

Chartrand’s 1957 model is known for its unique wide mouth chrome grille and flatter hood with twin spears.

By Adan Shaikh

Edward Chartrand has over 54 years in the towing business. He has watched how towing trucks have changed dramatically over the last half century, but one truck still reminds him of where the industry began.

Chartrand has owned his resto-mod 1957 Chevrolet tow truck for more than 10 years. He said the vintage wrecker reminds him of when he first started in the industry, a time when tow trucks were built with gears, chains and heavy steel.

“When I first started towing, this is the kind of equipment that was operated, so I was familiar with that. Everything back then was gear driven and now hydraulics have come in. Hydraulics are the popular ones now.”

The truck is equipped with a Holmes 440 wrecker body, which used to be a familiar sight in towing yards and highways across North America.

Chartrand said modern tow trucks may be more advanced, but older equipment was built differently. Although he owns several other tow trucks, equipped with hydraulics, he keeps his ’57 Chev for its style.

“The older vehicles, if you take a look, all have metal bumpers on them and the newer ones now have plastic. In a sense, this is a dinosaur, but this is how it started.”

When Chartrand first purchased the truck, it was far from the fully-functioning machine it stands as today.

“I just bought the cab and chassis, just the front of the truck, and it had a box on the back of it,” he said. “I had a friend help me with it, he did most of the work, but I was the engineer, I designed it.”

The truck was restored to full working condition, something Chartrand takes pride in. “Technically it could go to work if it had to go to work,” he added.

Powered by a 454 engine with aluminum headers and a four-speed standard transmission, the truck still operates using a traditional Power Take Off system and can put out up to 500 horsepower.

“It’s chain driven like a bicycle chain,” Chartrand said. “As soon as you engage the PTO, the transmission turns it over.”

The truck serves as a keepsake from his career in the towing industry, but Chartrand’s favourite part about it is still the attention that it garners. He enjoys the people the truck attracts and the conversations it starts. Children point to it because it reminds them of Tow Mater from the Pixar movie Cars and adults generally stop by to ask questions about the towing equipment at the back.

Overall, the truck continues to be a source of joy for Chartrand.

Cougars Connect Program

By Nadine Leming

Battle River School Division (BRSD) is proactively setting the stage for student success for the upcoming school year.

As part of this initiative, students transitioning to École Charlie Killam School (ÉCKS) for the 2026-27 school year. This is the annual ÉCKS Cougars Connect program.

This program assists elementary students to prepare for the move into middle school. BRSD and ÉCKS are prepping to provide a warm welcome to students who will be learning in their new school.

The ÉCKS Cougars Connect sessions are aimed at grade five students moving into grade six at ÉCKS in the fall. These sessions have been developed to assure students can enter the new school year with confidence.

The initiative has been coordinated in partnership with BRSD’s Mental Health Capacity Building and Student Wellness Facilitator teams.

Each of the four elementary schools will have their own day for grade five students to tour ÉCKS. The students are encouraged to participate in a variety of activities throughout their time at the school.

During the tour, the grade five students get to know the ÉCKS staff, develop their approach to grade six and ask the principal any questions they may have.
ÉCKS principal Andrea Gutmann said, “This is our third year running the Cougar Connect events and we have seen its impact on how our Grade 6 students start their year. They head into summer more confident about this big step and know some of our team.”

She continued, “We encourage students if they see us over summer to come say hello. It’s all about connection. Middle school can feel like a big step for parents and students alike, but ÉCKS offers an amazing opportunity to grow and develop in skills.”

Andrea talked about how the school is grateful for the support of the mental health team on this initiative. These events lead up to ÉCKS’s open house where students can come and introduce their parents to the school and can feel comfortable in their new space.

The open house will be held on May 26. BRSD and ÉCKS staff are excited to welcome students and families to this event.

Working together to create an inclusive community

From left, Laura McFarlane, Cristina Nielsen, Alex Waterston, Rev. Christa Eisbrenner and Catherine Robinson.

By Adan Shaikh

Saint Andrew’s Anglican Church and Centra Cam Vocational Training Association are working together to help create a more inclusive community through meaningful employment opportunities.

For the past two months, Centra Cam clients Alex Waterston and Cristina Nielsen have been working as cleaners at St. Andrew’s, one day a week. Both take pride in their work and say seeing smiles on the faces of church members makes the experience rewarding.

Centra Cam provides job training and support for community members living with developmental disabilities. Clients have varying needs and abilities, with some available to work only a few hours a week while others are interested in working 20 to 30 hours. By finding inclusive employment opportunities in the community, Alex and Cristina have been able to build workplace skills and become more independent.

“We started the Community Options Program in 1993 as a volunteer-based initiative,” shared Catherine Robinson, employment placement assistant at Centra Cam. “What began as a small effort has grown into a program that now supports over 30 volunteer placements in our community.”

Robinson said the placements have helped encourage inclusion while also changing how community members view the abilities of those involved in the program.

“Centra Cam has been somewhat of a heartbeat here in Camrose, and our clients are involved in lots of different initiatives. St. Andrew’s is supporting a local organization with this opportunity that is supporting so many rural families in the area. We have clients come in from as far out as Tofield and Stettler. So when you support people from Centra Cam, you don’t even know how positively you are impacting these families,” said Catherine.

“These placements have done more than encourage inclusion. They’ve helped shift perspectives. Community members have come to see that volunteers can also become valued employees, opening doors to meaningful employment opportunities,” she added.

Robinson thanked St. Andrew’s for supporting the initiative and recognizing the potential of the individuals participating in the program. The program is designed to support individuals with varied abilities in succeeding in the workplace through on-the-job training and guidance from dedicated job coaches.

The partnership with St. Andrew’s came about when a couple who had been dedicated to keeping the church clean chose to retire from their volunteer role. Reverend Christa Eisbrenner then questioned whether it was time to bring someone new on board. The couple had started volunteering during the COVID-19 pandemic, eliminating the need for hiring someone for cleaning duties. This situation ultimately created an equally beneficial opportunity for both the church and Centra Cam.

“We see the dignity of every human being created in the image of God,” said Rev. Eisbrenner. “Employment is part of dignity.”

For many clients, these opportunities mark their first time in the workforce. The partnership between Centra Cam and St. Andrew’s highlights how even small supportive actions can contribute to a greater cause, like creating a community where all members are supported, empowered and seen.

Seniors’ Week celebration in June

By Adan Shaikh

Camrose seniors will be celebrated with a full day of activities, entertainment and community, on June 3 as Senior’s Coalition shifts this year’s Seniors’ Week activities into a single-day event.

The change is aimed at creating one large celebration, making it accessible and convenient for all members of the community.

The day kicks off at the Mirror Lake Centre with a Seniors’ Resource Fair, where older adults can connect with local organizations and services in one place. Information on health supports, food resources and community events will be available, along with door prizes for attendees.

“ Community based senior serving organizations will also be there, for anyone who may be looking for help with homemaking services like mowing their lawn, care in the home or companionship. For older adults who might be considering these services but don’t know where to go, it would be a good idea for them to to come to the resource fair,” said Jadyn Giroux, a dietician with Alberta Health Services Nutrition Services and member of the Senior’s Coalition.

The next event will take place at Rosealta Lodge, the Sweet Tea and Broadway Tunes gathering where at 2:30 p.m. Camrose’s own Elliot Harder, will entertain the guests with his musical talents.

The first two parts of the morning will be catered more towards the older adults, but the last and the most fun event of the day will bring all ages together, to spend quality time as a community and enjoy a variety of engaging activities. Raising a Ruckus Country Fair will be set up in the green space between the Camrose and District Centennial Museum and the Rotary Youth Centre. The free event will feature a Chili Cook-off, where guests can sample recipes and vote for their favourite, along with a Pie Bake-off judged by Reeve Cindy Trautman and Mayor PJ Stasko.

Interactive entertainment will include a performance by the Leduc Square Dancers, as well as a petting zoo, chicken poop bingo and fair games for all ages. Members of the Camrose Men’s Shed will also barbecue hot dogs for the children during the event.

Giroux said organizers are making a stronger effort this year to encourage participation across all age groups, in hopes that it will bridge the gap between generations that make up most of Camrose’s population.

“The Country Fair aspect is the more intergenerational piece that we are trying to focus on this year, so bring your kids, bring your neighbours. We have reached out to all the schools and play schools about this event to get the younger generations involved too,” she said.

Giroux said the event also reflects the important role older adults play in the Camrose community.

“I think here in Camrose, we have such a unique population because we do have so many seniors living in our community and events that are put on by the Senior’s Coalition helps people stay connected and build that sense of community within Camrose.”

The events are all free of cost, but donations for the community pantry will be welcome.

For more information, contact Kari Cameron, chair of the Senior’s Coalition at 780-673-1388.

Battle River Quilting Guild sews

Nadine Leming, Camrose Booster

The Battle River Quilting Guild created an opportunity for youth to learn how to sew. They had a four session class held during school professional development days that taught students to create their own projects. Front row from left, Brynn Hough, Keyairah Pye, Ellis Mohr and Anaya Pye. Back row from left, Adalyn Suzanski, Adah Stamp and Rhya Sokolov. Missing is Aleena Lapossie.

Always a Bridesmaid, a reflection on friendship and life’s changes

By Adan Shaikh

On April 25, the Waterworks Players’ production, Always a Bridesmaid, was performed at the Augustana Theatre. The perfect girls’ night out performance blended humour and nostalgia into a story that was relatable and entertaining.

Produced by Tina Myles and directed by Katlin Valiquette, the play followed four lifelong friends who made the promise to always be one another’s bridesmaids. The story took the audience through different seasons of each character’s life while highlighting the importance of having true friends through both good times and bad.

Pam Sherman’s portrayal of Monette Gentry filled the hall with laugh-out-loud moments and witty lines delivered with perfect timing.

Meanwhile, Tina Myles’ role as Deedra Wingate followed the redemption arc of a woman navigating success in her career alongside challenges in her marriage.

Charlie Collins, played by Janet Hinkley, highlighted a woman who seemingly has it all, but is still questioning whether marriage is something she even wants.

The play showcased both traditional and modern relationships while keeping friendship at the centre of the story. It also explored how the small choices and actions of close friends can quietly shape a person’s own life and decisions over time. Paula Bray played Libby Ruth Ames, the grounding force of the friend group, who kept everyone calm while remaining unapologetically herself.

The story was narrated by Kari Ames Bissette, played by Jenna Worton, whose perspective showed how parents’ relationships can influence the way children grow to view love and commitment in their own lives. Anita Wishart, who played wedding planner Sedalia Ellicott, provided strong comic relief and helped bridge the production’s humorous and emotional moments.

Overall, the show was a light-hearted comedy that still managed to capture many of the complexities found in everyday relationships. With themes of loyalty, acceptance and support, the production was a wonderful celebration of friendship through every season of life.

BRCF donates to CDFCSS

The Battle River Community Foundation awarded an $11,000 grant to Camrose & District Family and Community Support Services’ (CDFCSS) Older Adult Services’ Medical Transportation Program. Stephen Kambeitz, chair of the Battle River Community Foundation board, presents the cheque to Kari Cameron, director of Older Adult Services, and Denis Nickolesf, transport driver.

Submitted by Laura Young

Kari Cameron states, “The generosity of the Battle River Community Foundation grant helps ensure that through Camrose & District FCSS Medical Transportation, older adults can remain where they choose, at home, in the community, and attending the medical appointments they need. Thank you!”

The Medical Transportation program began on November 19, 2024. Since then, it has proven to be a popular service. Journeys can extend as far north as Edmonton and as far south as Red Deer, and to any number of places in between. Those utilizing the service are mostly in Camrose, but increasingly in the surrounding area as well. A small cost is applied. One patron noted, “This program helps me keep my independence as I do not have a car. I have no concerns about living in Camrose on my own. Having medical transportation keeps me out of the hospital as I am able to get to my regular appointments.”

The Older Adult Services Program, provided by Camrose & District FCSS, extends beyond Medical Transportation to include other initiatives, such as Homemakers’ Services. This service helps older adults with housework and errands.

Meals on Wheels is another popular program. It provides delicious and nutritious food right to the door. A program called Seniors’ CHOICES enhances the well-being of seniors facing health challenges, loneliness and social isolation.

Seniors can have their yard work done, their snow removed and any number of other services provided that help to ensure they are not isolated from the community.

The grant for the Camrose & District FCSS’ Older Adult Services’ Medical Transportation Program is provided by the Gordon and Arlene Hay Fund and the Battle River Community Foundation Community Fund.

The Battle River Community Foundation exists to support organizations in east central Alberta that benefit the local communities and positively impact the future.

Pops goes the orchestra

By Nadine Leming

The Edmonton Pops Orchestra is back to take the audience on another cinematic journey with MORE! TICKET TO HOLLYWOOD.

This 12-piece orchestra includes two dynamic vocalists for a memorable evening of movie magic at the Lougheed Performing Arts Centre on May 29.
The audience can expect captivating melodies and heartwarming classics that can only be experienced with a live orchestra.

This performance returns with an even larger collection of recognizable music sung by Melenie Reid and Brian Christensen. The set list features songs from some of the greatest movie soundtracks ever written.

Experience the romance of Titanic, the magic of Wicked, and the swagger of Top Gun. The show will take a musical journey from stirring instrumentals to unforgettable songs, each note will be a reminder of the joy of going to the movies. This show will feature new music to delight audiences.

This will be an amazing performance straight from Tinseltown and back in Camrose in by popular demand. For more information or tickets, go to www.camroselive.ca

McHappy Day

Nadine Leming, Camrose Booster

Both Camrose McDonald’s locations participated in McHappy Day. Since the beginning of this annual fundraiser, all the money goes towards supporting families with children in hospitals by providing accommodation and comfort in area Ronald McDonald Houses. From left, Devon Herbert from Camrose Fire Department, Mayor PJ Stasko and Nash Boisvert from Camrose Fire Department were on hand to volunteer at the west-end location on May 6.

A Canadian star rising

By Nadine Leming

Bobby Bazini is a roots-soul singer/songwriter from Mont-Laurier, QC, known for a blend of folk, country and soul music. He rose to fame with his 2010 debut album, Better in Time, that was certified platinum and was recognized with two Juno nominations.

Though he is Francophone, his early work is all in English, as he was heavily impacted, echoing the sounds of legends like Johnny Cash, Otis Redding and Ray Charles. He often sings and writes in English, born from the music ingrained in him from his youth.

Over the years, Bazini has often been asked, “Why don’t you sing in French?” For him, it wasn’t for a lack of desire, he was just unsure of how to approach it, often doubting himself. He wondered if his audience would follow him down that path.

In 2022, he began work on his French language songs with his long-standing collaborator, Connor Seidel. They devoted a whole summer to the project, but struggled with it. They put the project on hold while Bazini focused on releasing his English album Pearl in 2023. The album features 11 songs which explore modern jazz and new wave influences.

In recent years, Bazini has been discovering French music and has grown to appreciate the works of Jim et Bertrand and Daniel Bélanger. His writing collaborator, Seidel, was also a fan of their work. This inspired Bazini and Seidel to create the album Seul au cinéma released in September of 2025. The sound they created evokes the early 2000s, while including modern touches creating a more contemporary style.

Bazini is aware of his journey and the growth he has experienced over his life both artistically and personally. He continues to keep an eye on the road ahead, challenging himself to evolve. This has allowed him to deliver an endearing and emotionally charged body of work. Bazini is the type of artist mindful of where he came from and is moving forward to create a brighter future.

Bazini is currently on tour and has recently released a revisited version of his song, “Leonard Cohen” originally released in 2016. This updated version of the song is often featured on his current tour which makes a stop at the Bailey Theatre in Camrose on May 22 as part of the Rose City Roots series. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the show beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at www.baileytheatre.com

Mother’s Day Breakfast

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

The Elks and Royal Purple held their annual Mother’s Day Breakfast at the Elks Lodge on May 10. This marked the last pancake breakfast held at the lodge. The hall was filled with families enjoying the Mother’s Day breakfast. The Elks and Royal Purple will now look for another place for their organization, where they can continue their work for the community.

Helping to prepare the breakfast are, from left, Marion Czapp, Mary-Ann Lepers, Sandra Howald, Maureen Omondi and Gerry Czapp.

Camrose Royal Purple members Evelyn Pacholek, left, and Barb Szott prepared scrambled eggs and orange juice for the guests.

Exploring wilderness through words

By Adan Shaikh

The Battle River Writers’ Centre will host its annual poetry workshop, Wilderness and Wordcraft: Poetry in Practice, on May 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Marrow Restaurant and Lounge.

Led by Alberta poets Rosemary Griebel and Juleta Severson-Baker, the workshop will guide participants through writing prompts and discussions exploring themes of wilderness, chaos and self expression.

Griebel is a writer and retired librarian based out of Castor, whose poetry has appeared in literary magazines, anthologies, chapbooks and on CBC Radio. Her collection Yes was shortlisted for the Gerald Lampert Award, the Pat Lowther Award and the Stephan G. Stephansson Award. In 2019, one of her poems was selected for Alberta’s first literary landmark as part of Project Bookmark Canada’s CanLit Trail.

“Good poetry tells us something about being human in our times,” said Dr. Alan Richards, poet and coordinator of the workshop.

Severson-Baker is a poet, educator and performer whose third full-length collection, Okay, tell me exactly what happened, is scheduled for publication this fall through Frontenac House Press. Her 2023 collection Antecedent was shortlisted for the Writers’ Guild of Alberta’s Stephan G. Stephansson Award.

The annual event is organized by Dr. Jane Ross and Richards, both writers and poets themselves. Richards said the workshop is designed to be a welcoming space where participants can strengthen their craft while finding confidence in their own voice.

“We’ll work on how to write about the wilderness that is out there, and the wildness within ourselves that we’re often afraid to set free,” said Richards.

Participants will work alongside the guest poets through a series of prompts before reading their poems aloud and receiving feedback from the group. “It is feedback on how you deal with a specific metaphor, what others found interesting about the poem, the takeaway is some sense of confidence in writing,” said Richards.

The goal of the workshop is to bring together a community of poets, to write and share their works, while highlighting how different people see the same topic or thing in their own perception.
The workshop is a great opportunity for all poets in the community to explore their own writing and connect with a community of poets and writers as they hone their skills.

For more information and to register, visit www.battleriverarts.ca/calendar

Battle River Lending Place donation

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

Camrose Royal Purple presented a cheque of $500 to Battle River Lending Place. Royal Purple first vice-president Doreen Pushak, left, presented the donation to president of the Lending Place board, Erhard Pinno. The Lending Place has recently begun the construction of their expanded facility and Pinno shared that the funds will go towards the purchase of a Hubscrub machine that cleans mobility equipment.

The pulse of ÉCCHS athletics

By Nadine Leming

With May underway, ÉCCHS athletics has kicked spring sports into high gear. Here’s a recap of recent activities and a glance of what’s ahead.
The badminton team concluded the season on a strong note in April. A number of players succeeded with outstanding performances.

The junior girls’ doubles team of Avery Mulloy and Aubree Bugge showcased great growth at the zone championships in Red Deer. Additionally, the junior mixed doubles team of Ryder Bergstrom and Aaliyah Riopel secured a well-deserved bronze medal.

A fantastic effort was made with commendable work by every player throughout the season.
After a thorough review and multiple conversations, the difficult decision to cancel the 2026 Provincial Cross Country Championships has been made.

Considerable planning and preparation has gone into hosting this event, but due to many factors including recent weather conditions, they’ve had to make the tough call to cancel the event for this year.

The school would like to commend the committee of Graeme Thain (XC Running chairperson), Steve Searle, Phil Eriksson, Terry Prescesky and Hans Haugen for their commitment to this event.

Following a temporary pause due to snow, the track and field season is now officially underway.
Training has started for competitors in sprints, distance, jumps, and throws. Early practices have prioritized improving technique, building endurance and learning specific event skills.

ÉCCHS athletes are excited to prove themselves in the fast-approaching track and field meets. The school will host several meets throughout May and are looking forward to a season of personal records, team unity and displaying a true competitive spirit.

A thank you to the coaching staff and supporters that make sporting opportunities possible for student athletes

Elks and Royal Purple give back

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

The Elks and Royal Purple members gathered together on May 7 to present donations to several essential community organizations that contribute towards creating a supportive, accessible and secure community for all members. From left, back row, Jason Chartrand, director of operations and Camp He Ho Ha; Bob Grant, chair of Camrose Friends of STARS; Ellis Wedel, church and community engagment coordinator at Hope Mission; Rees James, executive director of Camrose Boys and Girls Club; David Samm, executive director of Camrose & District Hospice Society; and Gerry Czapp, president of Camrose Elks. From left, middle row, Royal Purple members Marion Czapp, president; Linda Stevenson, secretary; Evelyn Pacholek, member; Marge Lynch, treasurer; Rosemary Broen, guard; Isabelle Meadley, member; Doreen Pushak, first vice-president; Doreen Kelly, second vice-president; Delores Evans, chaplain; and Dale Lyle, Elks guard. Front row, from left, Alex Oliver, director of the board of Battle River Community Foundation; Erhard Pinno, president of the Battle River Lending Place board; Nora-Lee Rear, executive director of Camrose Women’s Shelter; Muriel Rollheiser, supporter of Compassion House; Sandy McCann, ambassador of Compassion House Foundation; Crystal Schierman, assistant director of Child Enrichment Services at Camrose & District Family and Community Support Services; and Larry Babiuk from the Elks.

Strides of Hope Walk

By Nadine Leming

World Schizophrenia Day is fast approaching on May 24. The Schizophrenia Society of AB Camrose Branch will be honouring the occasion on May 22 with the Strides of Hope Walk.

This event is to raise awareness that schizophrenia is a treatable, chronic brain disorder and not a character flaw.

Walks like this help to educate people and reduce the stigma of the disorder and encourages early diagnosis and intervention which help to improve better long-term outcomes while breaking the myth that schizophrenia is a “split personality”, which it is not. It also gets the word out there that this is a manageable condition with support.

The Camrose Branch’s walk on May 22 will begin at Camrose City Hall at 12 noon with participants leaving on the walk at 12:30 p.m. All money raised in the Camrose area for this event is in support of local programming.

Everyone is invited to join in this walk which will happen rain or shine.

For more information or to register, go to www.schizophrenia.ab.ca

Dynamic RV Grand Opening

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

Dynamic RV Repair held its grand opening ceremony on May 4. Located at 1, 4415-36 Street, the Red Seal RV specialists are already busy with repairs as camping season approaches. Excited to serve the Camrose area, the team is committed to ensuring their RVs see nothing but enjoyable road trips. From left, City Councillor Lucas Banack, City Councillor Don Rosland, co-owner and apprentice Shayne Lewis, co-owner and apprentice Colin Robinson; office manager Cheryl Robinson; Mayor PJ Stasko and family member Gerry Robinson.

Reflections

By Bonnie Hutchinson

The power of kindness

I had some good news this week. Someone I cherish received a diagnosis that, while serious, is not as life-threatening as it could have been. When I received the news, I realized I’d been holding more tension than I knew. I felt relief and gratitude.
I realized something else – how powerful and comforting it is to be surrounded by friends and family members who care about us and show it in many different forms.

Over the past weeks, family members and close friends, acquaintances and even people we don’t know have been sending support, thoughts and prayers.

I could feel the web of support. It made a difference.

***

In that web of support are people we can talk to if we wish. People we can choose not to talk to if we wish. People who look after mechanics and logistics. People who bring food and run errands. People who make us laugh. People who hug us – or who, respectfully, don’t hug those of us who aren’t huggers.

As I was thinking about what kind of strength we’d need if our worst fears turned out to be true, I realized that all of us involved would be okay. Not without pain or fear or grief, but okay. I felt a place of deep peace that would hold no matter what might unfold.

As I have before, I noticed that when the crunch comes, when the worst happens, most of us rise to the occasion most of the time. And when we cannot, other people rise to the occasion on our behalf.

***

I was once in a room with people who had lost beloved family members – through murder. I could not imagine. I did not want to imagine. I listened as best I could.

One man said, “It’s been almost five years and I can’t get rid of the anger.” He knew that, however justified it was, his rage was poisoning his life and his relationships with those closest to him. The rage seemed a bottomless pit. That made sense to me – which caused me to think that I too must have a bottomless pit of rage. Scary to realize. Useful to realize.

Here is what else I noticed that day. People could talk about the horror, the shock, the terrible facts. They could speak all of that in a level voice. But what moved them to tears was describing acts of kindness.

The man who was filled with rage talked of the kindness and courtesy of Victim Services people who were with his family at the time of the murder; who made sure the family was informed of court proceedings. That kindness helped.

I remember one story vividly. A police officer stepped over the scene-of-crime tape which kept out family members, to go into the home of their sister who’d been murdered by her husband. The police officer had heard family members say they wanted their sister to have “something nice to wear” in her coffin. Her family forever remembers that police officer’s act of humanity which somehow made the unbearable a tiny bit less unbearable.

***

A few years ago, after the Humboldt crash, the late Lew Goddard wrote a similar message in a letter to the editor.

“Look at the response from our entire country. Look at the response from nearly one hundred countries in our world. I expected a response from the world; it was inevitable. But the number of countries and the generosity is amazing.…

“The positive physical things that have happened show that we help our neighbours: the organ donations, the extra blood transfusions and the support from all over. We now have a better view of the fact that there are very good people in our universe.”

More recently, a similar response happened after the Tumbler Ridge tragedy.

***

What you focus on expands. So, what acts of kindness have you noticed lately? And what acts of kindness might you be able to do, maybe even today?

***

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.

Guest Column

Question Period

By Arnold Malone

No democracy has a perfect system but the British parliamentary system is likely one of the best ever devised. One of the reasons that the system is so effective is because of oral questions. A studied opposition examining the policies of a government is a vital tool for fairness and transparency. A good opposition is a very important precondition for democracy. These opposition members are expected to ask questions that citizens cannot ask directly.

Imagine a government without a question period. A government that day after day could design and execute policies without cross examination. The probability is that such a system would soon be reduced to a system of self-serving abuse.
Governments design legislation sensing what an opposition reaction might be. A lot of legislation is massaged to decrease challenges prior to introduction. Question Period stimulates cautious reflection. Legislators know their legislation will be scrutinized.

There are a good number of flaws in the American system of government. Some are: the use of gerrymandering electoral district boundaries to favour the governing party, a lack of spending limits for a candidate (favouring the wealthy), and the appointment of judges who might support government policies. Importantly, the U.S.A. would be greatly advantaged if only they had a question period.

Imagine, when George Bush was President, and if members of Congress could question the President for evidence that Iraq actually had weapons of mass destruction. Question period is not a one-off event. A policy can be probed repeatedly when evidence is not provided. This is a powerful way to ignite the public’s reaction. The stated reason for going to war was that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction when, in fact, they did not.

Now with the Trump administration congress would have unending delight with a question period. There could be a hounding for evidence that Iran was about to attack America?

A thousand questions about the ethics of a police force named ICE allowing the police to be masked with no number or name on their uniforms. This allows the members of ICE to act without recognition or regard. As a result, members of ICE could not be held accountable for their appalling behaviour.

Trump removed Maduro from office in Venezuela and then claimed, “We will run it”; and also “And we will keep the oil”, a question period would share with the public how wrong such an intention would be. Daily questioning would activate the public on the harm of breaking U.S.A. laws as well as International Law.

The very idea of grabbing ownership of Greenland, Panama Canal, Cuba or even our dear O’Canada, requires questioning after questioning after questioning. In time, the U.S.A. public would rise up and demand a return to common sense. Studies have demonstrated that an issue needs to be exposed to the public continuously for at least two weeks before there is an engaged public response. When an issue matters, oral questions can shine a light on an issue for an extended time.

Oral questions have the possibility to expose a wrong intention and also, by its very existence causes legislation to be improved.

The opposition party needs to be seen as professional. If they are asking reasoned questions they serve a great value. If they are participating in frivolous-mischief they will pay a political price. One observation is obvious, citizens are not easily fooled.

There are many other aspects to a parliamentary day. Cabinet meetings, committee meetings, the work within departments and because of oral questions they are all held accountable.
Question Period might, on occasion, seem rather bombastic for a polite observer. However, Canadian law is somewhat like sausage, we can enjoy the result as long as we don’t fret over how it is made.