Columns & News

Camrose and District Centennial Museum shares update

From left, Tanya Pattulo, treasurer; Gerry Rush, vice-president; Stephanie Hvenegaard, board director; Jayda Calon, secretary; Deb Trout, social media and email coordinator; Will Voth, president; and Irysh Snow, volunteer.

By Adan Shaikh

The Camrose and District Centennial Museum Society held their Annual General Meeting on April 21. Board members gathered to reflect on the 2025 operations, events and finances and discussed plans for 2026. Reflecting on the previous year the board shared that the biggest challenge currently facing the museum is a lack of volunteers.

The museum is preparing to open for the season, with a spring work bee scheduled for May 24 from noon to 3 p.m. Board members and volunteers will gather to prepare the grounds and buildings for school field trips, community events and visitors eager to explore Camrose’s history. The board says the day offers a simple way for residents to get involved and support a local landmark, as well as an opportunity to test the waters for those who may be considering becoming a volunteer.

Several major events and exhibits are planned for the coming season, including a feature exhibit recognizing the Indigenous roots of Camrose. A travelling exhibit, Powwow! OchÎwin the Origins, will arrive June 20 and remain on display until September 7.

Created by Patrick and Marrisa Mitsuing of Powwow Times, the exhibit brings together traditional dance regalia assembled with the help of Indigenous artists. The creators also worked with knowledge keepers across North America during the 2019 and 2020 powwow seasons to document the origin stories behind the dances, offering visitors a deeper understanding of their cultural significance.

Following the reports, the society elected its board for the upcoming term. Will Voth will serve as president, with Gerry Rush as vice-president, Jayda Calon as secretary and Tanya Pattulo as treasurer. Deb Trout will take on communications duties, and Stephanie Hvenegaard stayed on as a director.

Looking ahead to 2026, the society is planning several larger projects. Work is underway to relocate the elevating scraper on site, and planning for Canada Day celebrations and Taste Night at the Museum are already underway.

The Museum grounds will also see changes, with improvements planned for the Community Gardens located across from the Firehall to make them more accessible and useful, including the addition of new gardens at the Museum grounds.

As the new season approaches, board members say the Museum remains a place where stories are shared and preserved, and they hope more residents will take the opportunity to visit, volunteer and be part of that effort. For more information on volunteering contact 780-672-9949 or email museum@camrose.ca

Ole’s Spring Run

By Nadine Leming

Savour a rejuvenating Mother’s Day weekend with an outdoor adventure filled with family bonding and neighbourhood camaraderie at the Ole’s Spring Run Off on May 9.

This cherished Camrose tradition includes an 8 km, 3 km and 1 km Kids’ Fun Run. There is the potential that Ole Uffda, Camrose’s mascot, might be around to high five with the children.

This event is spearheaded annually by the Camrose Ski Club. This beloved family friendly event encourages runners and walkers of all ages to experience the trails.

Whatever route you choose, participants will start at the Stoney Creek Centre and tour Camrose’s scenic trails.

Run, walk or cheer – this popular event offers an inclusive atmosphere for everyone. The spirit of Ole’s Spring Run Off is just as much about encouraging people to get moving outside and enjoying community as it is about fitness.

The day also includes music, food, prizes and a fun celebration of family and community along the trails. The festivities begin at 10 a.m. with the 1 km Fun Run starting at 11 a.m. For more information or to register, go to www.camroseskiclub.com

Battle River Lending Place’s AGM:
Passion meets progress

The Battle River Lending Place held the election for the 2026-27 board of directors at their AGM. From left, Julie Gerard, executive director; Susan Nigh, secretary; Chad Gerber, director; Leona Calhoun, treasurer; Cliff Drever, vice-president; Mary Broen, director; Glenys Smith, director; and Erhard Pinno, president. Missing are Lorne Enright and Chris Innis, both directors.

By Nadine Leming

The Battle River Lending Place Society (BRLP) held its annual general meeting (AGM) on April 21. It was a time of reflection over the last year and a celebration of milestones achieved.

Their mission is to help individuals in our community to secure and access mobility and daily living equipment when they need it most. The BRLP began in 2021, opening their doors in January of 2024. Since then, they’ve served 908 clients and accumulated over 1,600 volunteer hours.

Erhard Pinno is the president of the BRLP. In his report he expressed his gratitude to the staff, executive, board members and many volunteers and supporters. He gave a brief history of the work of Jane and Jack Ross, alongside many others, to get the organization off the ground.

He talked about the challenges they faced in the early days overcoming the lack of funding and space, yet pressed forward. They learned from similar organizations in Wetaskiwin and Red Deer to see what could be possible in Camrose while connecting with the right people to navigate turning this vision into reality.

Since opening, the BRLP has made significant progress towards their mission. In March 2025 they achieved charitable status, Jane quipped, saying, “It’s because of the leadership.” Charity status allowed the organization to expand their vision and capacity as they have quickly outgrown their current space which led to the Under One Roof campaign to raise the funds for a 1,914 square foot addition to their facility.

Monica Macedo is the RBC branch manager in Camrose. She, alongside her colleague, Anna Ji, were on hand to present a $50,000 cheque towards the fundraising campaign. In response, Erhard said, “I am pleased to report that thanks to many generous grants, donations and community support, we have reached our goal of $300,000.”

Erhard continued, “The expansion of our facility will allow us to better serve our community and respond to the increasing demand for our services. Serving as president of this lending place is an honour and humbling experience.”

Their inventory includes a wide range of mobility and daily living equipment, from hospital beds, and lifts to other essential items that are often required for longer term care. Julie Girard is the executive director for the BRLP. In her report she said, “By providing these on a lending basis, we help reduce the financial barriers and ensure individuals have continued access to the equipment they need.”

The board made two recommendations to be approved at the AGM. The first was to increase the executive director’s position from three to four days per week. The motion was made and carried.
The second recommendation was that with the finances secured, legal requirements met and conditions favourable, construction will proceed contingent upon the builder’s insurance being secured prior to commencement. With all conditions currently met, the motion was made and carried.

After the financial statements and 2026 budget was approved, Erhard took time to recognize two outgoing board members, Susan Stockall, who was unable to attend, but shared about her contribution to the BRLP.

Chad Treleaven was the next to be recognized. Erhard asked him to join him at the podium. In true Erhard fashion, he recited a poem to thank Chad for his service to the organization. During which he commented, “Chad, we thank you for all you’ve given. From the early days when dreams were new, you helped shape what we now do.”

The next item on the agenda was the election of the 2026 board of directors. The following people were nominated and acclaimed as to the executive. Erhard Pinno, president; Cliff Drever, vice-president; Leona Calhoun, treasurer; and Susan Nigh, secretary.

The following people were nominated and acclaimed to the board as returning members. Mary Broen, Chad Gerber, Glenys Smith. Newly elected to the board are Lorne Enright and Chris Innis.

Jane Ross was called to the podium to bring greetings from the Association of Life-wide Living (ALL). She was happy to present the BRLP a beautiful rendering of the Battle River Watershed. Julie accepted this special work of art on behalf of the organization. Jane also shared a letter from the new ALL president, Charissa Scott, who was unable to attend.

In closing, Erhard shared a few words from the heart. He concluded, “The community has made it possible for us to return some of our blessings to those in need. I know this community will continue to be served for years to come.” With that, the AGM was adjourned.

Camrose unites over Music Festival

Nadine Leming, Camrose Booster

Avery (Faith) Kippenhuck performed three selections for adjudicators at the Camrose and District Music Festival in the classical category. Her voice was truly beautiful as she evoked emotion during each performance.

These budding pianists all performed for adjudicators at the Camrose and District Music Festival. From left, back row: Wolfgang Moore, Mirah Danen, Mia Gendreau. Front row left: Leo Kazantzides, Rozie Pollom, Leo Schinkinger, and Emily Kazantzides.

The grade nine ÉCCHS Jazz Band performed during the Camrose and District Music Festival. Evan had a solo on his alto saxophone and performed it very well.

Mother’s Day Market in support of Army Cadets

By Adan Shaikh

The 3068 Army Cadet Corps Support Committee is hosting its annual Mother’s Day Market on May 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Moose Hall. This year, the event will include over 25 vendors from around the region, offering their unique creations including two garden centres bringing plants and flowers, giving visitors plenty of options to find something thoughtful and personal.

Games will be available throughout the day, and a silent auction supported by local donations will raise funds for the cadet program. Members of the Cadet corps will be present to assist vendors and answer questions from the public, adding a welcoming and community focused atmosphere to the event.

The Cadet program in Camrose focuses on building leadership, teamwork and self discipline among youth. Funds raised by the support committee help expand training opportunities and improve the overall experience for participants.

Army Cadets’ history in Camrose dates back to 1913, when programs were run through local schools and organizations. In 2000, efforts to re-establish a corps began when Second Lieutenant Brian Backhaus and Officer Cadet Scott O’Neill sought sponsorship from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 57. The group began parading in September 2000 as part of a Red Deer-based corps. On September 1, 2002, the 3068 South Alberta Light Horse Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps was officially established.

Today, Cadets take part in regular training and summer camps aimed at developing military and life skills, while forming friendships and connections that often last well past their time in the program.

Admission to the market is free, with all proceeds from the auction and tables, supporting Cadet programming. Organizers hope the event offers an opportunity for the community to come together in support of local youth.

45 years of heart and harmony

The Camrose and District Senior Centre Society celebrated their 45th Anniversary with a very unique fashion show. Steve Kirby was one of the volunteer models for the afternoon. He’s a man of many talents including being a painter and is known for being a great canasta card player.

By Nadine Leming

On April 21, the Camrose and District Senior Centre Society (CDSCS) celebrated their 45th anniversary with a catered luncheon, live music and a fun fashion show. The band, Jam Wagon, provided wonderful entertainment for the celebration, giving the event a sense of class.

Vice-president of the senior centre, Kathy Haas, introduced Sherry Tovell to emcee a fun fashion show that included the centre’s executive and members of the centre.

Sherry said, “I have to say, I was overwhelmed with the talent here, with bands, actors, singers and dancers. It is just an amazing city.”

She continued with, “One thing I have found, is that the CDSCS is housing all of them.”

The show was a light-hearted affair, filled with fun fashions. Sherry shared fun facts about each model as they strutted their stuff in front of a full house in the auditorium. She also commented on the excellent service each of them provided to the centre to keep things running smoothly.

These dedicated volunteers (and models) are the backbone of the seniors centre organizing events, running the office and making sure everyone is taken care of. After the fashion show, everyone was invited to stay for cake and coffee to wrap up this enjoyable event.

BRCF supports the Bailey Theatre

Alex Oliver, director with the Battle River Community Foundation board, presented the cheque to Elliot Harder, general manager of the Bailey Theatre.

Submitted by Laura Young

The Battle River Community Foundation awarded a $3,000 grant to the Bailey Theatre Society.

The Bailey Theatre, a storied Camrose institution, has always tried to provide its patrons with the best possible experience. Important to this is the provision of a barrier free environment, including for those who are hearing impaired. With the failure of the existing assistive listening system, the Bailey undertook an initiative to replace the system, which was supported by the Battle River Community Foundation.

According to Production Coordinator Simon Williams, “The assistive listening devices, which we hope to have installed in time for the 2027 season, will help lower accessibility barriers to community members experiencing a wide range of hearing issues… these devices allow a more precise and targeted enhancement of program sound as compared to traditional hearing aids, clarifying dialogue while minimizing background noise.”
The system will be accessible by multiple means. One will be to pick up a wireless headphones set at the box office and listen to the performance that way. The second option is to bring your own small device and your own headphones and link up with the Bailey Theatre’s WiFi or, link up through your hearing aids.

The Bailey Theatre has a long and illustrious past. According to its website, the first show took place on February 23, 1911. The theatre then hosted performances such as touring shows, film, and amateur theatre. In 1919, the theatre was sold to Stan Bailey who, in 1922, added the 40 foot lobby area and a 120 seat balcony. In 1940, the façade was reconstructed to create a classic Art Deco appearance.

In more recent times, the Bailey served as the local movie theatre. But with the arrival of a multiplex in the 1990s, it could not compete. In 2006 things started to change when a major benefactor came forward to kickstart a renovation and a fund-raising campaign. The restored theatre was ready to open and celebrate its centennial on May 2011 and is now one of the best live performance venues in western Canada.

The grant for the Bailey Theatre Society is provided by the Douglas and Dorothy Mattson Endowment Fund for the Arts, the John and Muriel Chamberlain 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.

Ready, set, build!

By Nadine Leming

There was a special groundbreaking ceremony held at the Battle River Lending Place (BRLP) on April 14. Dignitaries and supporters gathered, to celebrate this monumental occasion of the building’s expansion.

Erhard Pinno, BRLP president welcomed everyone to this special occasion and said, “What a pleasure it is that we can gather such a fine group of people, from near and far.” He talked about how the centre was opened in January 2024, the hope and goal was to eventually need more space in the next decade or more, but never expected it to be so quickly.

Erhard added, “This is very meaningful, not just for the Lending Place, but for all those we serve as well as the community at large. This is an essential service for a healthy community.”

Erhard commented on the perfect timing of the current building and how wonderfully it came together then went on to add, “The time has come that we need to look ahead to the future so that this can be a place to serve this community for many more years to come.”

Mayor PJ Stasko was on hand to bring greetings from the City of Camrose. He said, “The Lending Place contributes so much to our community. We appreciate all the things you add, it is a well utilized service. You’ve come a long way in a short amount of time.”

Julie Girard, executive director commented, “We have already served about 1,300 clients in the two years we’ve been open. We have about 1,500 pieces of equipment and we are working on making our systems so much better.”

She continued, “Every day we see the need. I’d like to thank Erhard for the opportunity of working alongside someone so knowledgeable and dedicated. This project truly shows that we need each other. We lift each other up when we are down, broken, or simply need something.”

Julie’s comments spoke to the importance of community connections, believing in one another and being there for people when they need it the most.

Ron Grue will be the builder on this project. He commented on how lucky Camrose is to have a leader like Erhard. He also spoke to the timeline of the building in hopes for completion in mid-August.

This ceremony was an opportunity to thank all donors that gave from their hearts, believing in the mission that the BRLP is working to accomplish. They also took a moment to thank each of the volunteers who continue to show up and quietly make a difference.

The BRLP collects donated mobility equipment with the intention of assisting community members in need, who may otherwise go without. All equipment is thoroughly inspected to confirm it’s in good working order and sanitized before it is used by the clients they serve.

Blessed and balanced

By Nadine Leming

Saint Carlo Acutis Catholic High School (STCA) hosted a wellness initiative on April 16 for students. Sessions included a broad scope of topics throughout the day such as aboriginal beading, creative journaling, financial wellness, basic car maintenance, careers in healthcare and many more.

The day was created to take a holistic approach through the optics of faith, physical wellness, social/emotional wellness and life skills. Each session was led by community members sharing information about their field of expertise with many of the presenters incorporating faith into their presentations.

One of the sessions featured a five-person career panel, each of whom shared the story behind the successes that they’ve had in their chosen profession. They talked about the detours and unexpected surprises that led them to where they are today. Each presenter on the panel shared a typical day in their field. They also touched on what education they needed alongside the decisions and stepping stones made along the way. They also provided valuable insights and offered hard-earned wisdom along the path of their journeys.

Tammy Richards, yoga instructor, led sessions on mindful movement for students. She took students on a journey exploring physical postures, focusing on breath while being aware of the present moment.

Stefan Johnson is the director of student and staff formation for the Elk Island Catholic School Division (EICS). As a faith-filled leader with EICS, he has been a teacher, chaplain, and religious education consultant known for his commitment to Catholic education. He led students in a session on helping them find the meaning of life through connections with people and love. He interwove his faith and shared stories from his personal life. In a fast-paced world, well-being is an investment into one’s own self. Including small changes in nutrition, mindful movement, faith and conscious rest, can lead to a healthier and vibrant life.

It was a great way to present faith and wellness with unique opportunities for learning, self-discovery and growth for these high schoolers.

Bad to the Bones

The fourth annual Bones Tournament was open to all skill levels for this indoor event. Every team enjoyed the friendly competition with several teams dressed for the occasion. One of those teams was The Bone Crushers which featured, from left, Tanille Camron, Asten Preza, Jose Preza and Jen Hauck.

By Nadine Leming

The Fourth Annual Bones Tournament was held at the Rose City Curling Club (RCCC) from April 10 to 12.

The family-friendly game has surged in popularity over recent years due to its approachable format alongside the social aspect that caters to all generations.

This low-impact game is easy to learn, allowing it to be played by anyone, in backyards or in tournaments.

The annual tournament in Camrose has become very popular. In the first year of the tournament, the curling club hosted 64 four-person teams before expanding to 72 teams in year two where the registration has been capped.

Ben Knockleby, RCCC manager, said, “We have 14 games running simultaneously, and the action runs nonstop all day; we play music to promote a fun and exciting atmosphere.”

Upon registering, teams randomly drew an envelope to set their pool assignment for the weekend.

Games began every 30 minutes, and featured eight-team pools with the top four teams from each group qualifying for the championship double-elimination bracket on the final day of the tournament. The bottom four teams from each pool played in the consolation double elimination bracket.

Teams came from Saskatchewan and all over central Alberta, with the Rose City Curling Club (RCCC) receiving a lot of positive feedback from participants.

This year, Team Wandler from Lloydminster were the tournament champions with Team Lamson from Camrose picking up the consolation title.
Ben added, “Great events take a small army to host. We are fortunate to have such great community support and engagement.”

He added a thank you to all of their fantastic volunteers, staff and participants and the City of Camrose for all the support. The Fifth Annual Bones Tournament is planned for April 2027.

With the curling season and bones tournament wrapped up for this season, RCCC is looking forward to welcoming everyone back in the fall.

Raymond Wandler’s 1966 Corvette

Raymond Wandler enjoys summer driving in his ’66 Corvette, he enjoys the attention the vehicle attracts.

By Adan Shaikh

Raymond Wandler’s ’66 Corvette turns heads wherever it goes. With its unique colour, stylized body and convertible features the vehicle embodies a perfect summer driver.

But Wandler’s car isn’t just about style, the performance of the vehicle keeps up with the modern cars. Having owned the Corvette for over 12 years, Wandler has kept every part and detail completely original.

The model is part of Corvette’s second generation line up, which is often referred to as the “Sting Ray” era, because the body style of the vehicle was inspired by stingrays. By 1966 Corvette had reached the perfect design for the series with both the styling and engineering.

The 1963 models included a split rearwindow which was finally removed in ’66 models, which made the vehicle more practical. Under the hood, Wandler’s Corvette features a 327 cubic inch V8 motor, which can put out up to 350 horsepower. Paired with a Muncie four-speed manual transmission, the driving experience is direct.

Wandler shared that his favourite part about the vehicle is the attention it gets and how well the vehicle performs. He enjoys driving around on summer weekends with the top down.

The ’66 Corvette also features power brakes and power steering that make the car easy to handle.
When the vehicle first came out, buyers could choose from different engine options for more power as well as between manual or automatic transmissions, this made Corvette a popular choice for both speed enthusiasts and those looking for a comfortable, luxurious car.

Comfort options like AM or FM add-ons were also popular and considered a premium addition at the time. Wandler’s model with the removable soft top was the most popular choice. His model stands out for its balanced power and smooth cruising.

The car’s originality is what continues to make time on the road enjoyable for Wandler.

MLA Lovely holds Recognition Event

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

The Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Centre was awarded $122,000 for equipment upgrades. The Lougheed Centre serves approximately 90,000 patrons every year with its wonderful lineup of plays, shows and musicians. From left, Minister of arts, culture and status of women, Tanya Fir; Nick Beach, general manager of the Lougheed Centre; Stacey Beach; and MLA Jackie Lovely.

Battle River Lending Place received a $125,000 CFEP grant for their building expansion project that is now underway. The organization provides the essential mobility equipment to Camrose and area residents, providing much needed support. Minister of arts, culture and status of women, Tanya Fir and MLA Jackie Lovely presented the cheque to the board members.

MLA Jackie Lovely recognized Camrose Chief of Police Dean LaGrange for his years of service to the Camrose community, with a Community Leadership Recognition Award. From left, Minister of arts, culture and status of women, Tanya Fir; Chief LaGrange; MLA Jackie Lovely; and Adrian Zinck.

Parrilla Grand Opening

Ron Pilger, Camrose Booster

Parrilla, Camrose’s newest eating establishment, located at 6003B-48 Avenue, Camrose, opened to the delight of hundreds of hungry patrons on April 26. Excited by the $1.99 opening special on all food items, and the offer of plenty of family activies and door prizes during the day resulted in a long line of people waiting outside on the cold, winter-like day at least 30 minutes before the doors opened to the public. Just prior to 11:30 a.m., the ribbon cutting to mark the occasion took place by City of Camrose Mayor PJ Stasko. The mayor was assisted on this special occasion by his two daughters Aubrey and Quinn Stasko. Business owner Hamilton Victor Christian was joined by his own daughter Michelle Christian to commemorate their journey as new Camrose business owners. From left, Aubrey, Mayor Stasko, Michelle, Hamilton and Quinn.

Oh deer!

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

The deer in Camrose are once again active, and they don’t scare away easily, often seen having intense stand-offs with passersby. Residents should pay extra attention when driving or walking around the City to avoid contact with the animals and scan the road carefully, especially at dusk and dawn.

Research project aims to prevent knee osteoarthritis

By Adan Shaikh

A new Alberta-based research project is examining how earlier intervention and stronger collaboration between healthcare providers could improve outcomes for people living with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Jordyn Burgar, a master’s student in public health at the University of Alberta, is helping coordinate the study, which focuses on integrating physiotherapy and pharmacy care for knee OA.

Knee osteoarthritis is a common joint condition that can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. Symptoms such as pain, stiffness and swelling can begin as early as a person’s 30s or 40s, with about 10 per cent of people reporting symptoms by age 60.

“Research has shown that education and exercise are essential for people with OA to help them manage their condition better. Exercise can reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life. However, doing the right exercises in the right way is important so that joints are not overly stressed,” said Burgar.

Burgar studied kinesiology at Red Deer College before transferring to the University of Calgary, where she completed a degree in psychology. Burgar worked as a kinesiologist at a physiotherapy clinic offering the GLA:D program, an education and exercise based approach to managing knee and hip osteoarthritis.

The program was introduced in Denmark and has since been expanded to Canada. The GLA:D Canada program is licensed to the Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation, and implemented by the research to practice team at Bone and Joint Canada. They also provide certification for the physiotherapists and kinesiologists (under the guidance of a physiotherapist) to run the program.

“That job exposed me to the management and therapy side of arthritis,” she shared.

Now working under the supervision of Dr. Allyson Jones, an affiliate scientist with Arthritis Research Canada, Burgar is contributing to a project that aims to strengthen collaboration between pharmacists and physiotherapists for the treatment of knee OA.

The study has recruited pharmacies across Alberta, including Pharma-save and Shoppers Drug Mart Cornerstone in Camrose, where pharmacists will help identify patients experiencing knee pain to enrol in the study. The GLA:D hip and knee program will be running at the Healthy Living Centre in town.

“The purpose of this research project is to find out if a community pharmacist and physiotherapist can work together to help patients learn how to best manage their knee pain,” said Burgar.

Participants will receive education and support related to exercise, daily activity and medication use.

“Doing proper exercises targeting the knee joint has the potential to reduce knee OA pain. Patients will receive support and education about exercises and activities that they can do and medications they can use,” explained Burgar.

The research also aims to address gaps in early treatment. Many individuals do not receive conservative care before being referred to specialists. By involving pharmacists, who are often one of the most accessible points of care, the project hopes to improve early identification and intervention.

“We hope this research establishes relationships between pharmacists and physiotherapists in the community to promote the early intervention of knee osteoarthritis. We hope to determine how we can engage them to find osteoarthritis cases in the community and connect patients to care earlier,” she added.

Researchers plan to recruit approximately 125 participants and hope the findings will improve quality of life for those involved while also informing future approaches to care. For more information about the study visit the website: www.ualberta.ca/en/rehabilitation/research/international-network-for-aging-research/current-research

Golden Egg winners

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

The Green family spent their Easter weekend scouring the Camrose parks in search of a very special golden egg that contained instructions to receive $500. With some help from their furry friend, Cedar, the siblings were able to decipher the riddle shared in The Camrose Booster and find the hidden treasure at the Four Seasons Rotary Park. They shared how they knew the clue in the riddle right away, but were starting to lose hope when they couldn’t find it. They even searched during the night to beat the crowds, and at other parks. The family plans on spending their winnings on an adventurous trip to an amusement park. From left, Mikayle, Rayna and Audrey Green with realtors Annelie Breugem and Nicole Jensen.

Sowing the seeds of festivities

By Nadine Leming

Members of the Camrose and District Horticultural Society have had a shared interest in horticulture and gardening since starting in 1913.

Currently, this valuable group that volunteers helps maintain various gardens around the community such as the Camrose Heritage Railway Station and Park and the Centennial Museum Peony Garden.
They are also the event organizers for the popular annual Rose and Lily Show as well as hosting a spring and fall plant sale.

Janine Carroll, president, said, “We are pleased to be hosting the province-wide conference for the Alberta Horticultural Association (AHA). What makes this special is that this year is the 75th anniversary of the AHA.”

The conference will be on June 6 at the Camrose Regional Exhibition (CRE).

The AHA’s aim is to cultivate growing tips and techniques to the gardening public, advance horticulture education and to honour exceptional achievements in horticulture by individuals while supporting individual members and affiliate clubs, like the one here in Camrose.

The Horticultural Association’s conference will be hosted in partnership with the Camrose and District Horticultural Society with tickets including snacks and lunch. The conference will include guest speakers, a variety of vendors, silent auction and a reception celebrating the anniversary.

Dora Berry will be presenting on the topic of Nature’s Elements, Climate Resilient and Water-Wise Landscapes. She will be exploring methods for designing landscapes to overcome challenges such as water availability, extreme weather and more.
Solveig Carroll will be speaking to biotic and abiotic factors of soil health. Her topic investigates soil and plant health indicators covering microbe interactions and physical characteristics of soil, an understanding that will help your garden grow better.

Nicola Irving is the president of the Round Hill Renaissance Agriculture Foundation. She will be featuring the foundation’s 3.5 acre community edible foodscape that specializes in providing hands-on agricultural literacy for students and community groups.

The conference concludes with the 75th Anniversary Reception at the Camrose Heritage Railway Station. Cake and refreshments will be available to celebrate the AHA’s accomplishments and to the “rose-y” future of horticulture.

The deadline to register for the conference is May 22. For more information call Janine Carroll at 780-608-6243 or Eleanor White at 780-781-8911. To register, email ab.hort.association@gmail.com

JYSK Grand Opening

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

JYSK held its grand opening on April 18. A lineup of over 400 residents waited to check out the new furniture store and take advantage of the opening sales. From left, regional manager Kevin Norman, Bruce Burdock and Curtis Mandrusiak.

CDFCSS to oversee community gardens

By Adan Shaikh

At the April 20 Committee of the Whole Council meeting, the administration shared that the Camrose and District Family and Community Support Services (CDFCSS) has agreed to oversee the administration of the Community Gardens located across the Camrose Fire Hall.

The garden plots that have been taken care of by the City’s parks department to date, have been available for rent to residents in the past to enjoy growing their own plants and foods. After discussions, the council had directed the administration to seek a community organization willing to take over the administration of the gardens.

With the new partnership, residents can still continue to enjoy the community gardens but CDFCSS will be in charge of rentals instead of the City. Registration for the gardens will open May 6 and those who would like to utilize the community gardens can stop by CDFCSS office, located at 4821-51 Street, between 8 to 9 a.m. or 5 to 6 p.m.

The changes are being made to encourage long term commitment instead of renting plots on a seasonal basis. “The garden will provide a shared space where Camrose residents and community groups can grow fruits, vegetables, and/or flowers, learn sustainable practices, and build relationships across generations and cultures. This unique partnership will strengthen community connection, provide education to enhance skill development, and promote overall individual and community well-being,” shared Lyndel Kasa, executive director of CDFCSS.

“One thing that’s different is the opportunity for community groups to have a plot at no charge if they are donating all the harvest to an organization that offers free food supports in Camrose,” added Kasa.

The collective plots for the community will be managed and cared for by volunteer gardeners who will be incentivized with a reduced plot rental fees and the harvest to take home. The volunteers will plant, maintain, and harvest them for the benefit of the entire community.

“The produce from these plots could be used to host a community supper, incorporated into a community kitchen like those at Camrose Association for Community Living (CAFCL), Camrose and District FCSS (CDFCSS), or Camrose Adult Learning Council (CALC), or even used to host a free pop-up community market to distribute excess harvest,” shared Kasa.

This decision comes after thorough discussions between CDFCSS, City of Camrose, Camrose Horticultural Society and the Camrose Environmental Sustainability Advisory Committee, and is meant to make fresh and affordable food available to the community.

Whether involved through volunteer work or gardening for leisure having garden plots available, where residents can come together and grow, can have a positive impact on the overall well-being of the community.

Appreciating volunteers

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

The Free Community Spaghetti Supper thanked the Camrose Academy of Dance volunteers as they reach the end of the season. The young dancers helped serve a nutritious meal to countless families in the community. The last supper will be held on April 29 at the Moose Hall.

Paul Harris Pin

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

Ken Rohr was recognized by the Camrose Rotary Club on April 21 with a Paul Harris pin, for his unwavering support for the club. He has spent many hours helping with the flag program and provided storage space. Morris Henderson, left, presented the pin to Rohr.

Reflections

By Bonnie Hutchinson

Into the tumultuous marketplace

I once took part in a Tai Chi class. That’s a moving meditation practice well known in many parts of Asia. As an introduction to us chatty fidgety beginners, the Tai Chi instructor began with this statement.

“Anyone can wear a saffron robe and go to the top of a mountain and meditate and be grounded and centred and wise. What the world needs now is for us to come down from the mountain top and go into the marketplace and be grounded and centred and wise.”

I no longer remember the 108 Tai Chi moves, but I remember that statement. I also remember the powerful feeling of moving in unison with others, doing centuries old movements together.

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The world has changed since the Tai Chi instructor’s comment. In 2026, we need even more to be capable to go into whatever is happening in our world and be grounded and centred and wise.

Our species has created a perfect storm of crises and chaos. We are now capable of destroying ourselves, if not by warfare, then by polluting earth so it can no longer sustain us. Our species has the technology to end our violence and pollution. We don’t yet appear to have the wisdom to make the required worldwide decisions and actions.

So what does this have to do with the Tai Chi instructor?

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Through many different traditions, many of us have learned practices that help shift conflict into peace and stress into calm. We have practices to help us see higher possibilities. We have learned how to think and act beyond our immediate emotions.
Most of us grown-ups have those abilities. Mind you, when we are upset, we don’t always use those abilities.

I once was part of a class in which several hundred of us learned practices that not only helped us connect with calm wisdom within ourselves, but to experience something like a “group mind” that we were all part of but was bigger than all of us. It was like the relationship of a singer to the choir, or a sports player to the team.

Our “group mind” could conceive of solutions to challenges. It could create possibilities beyond what any one person could achieve.

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This isn’t a solution, but it can add to our repertoire. We need to continue any practice that allows us to see our turmoil and still find some place of peace. In times of turmoil, such practices are even more important as part of self-care. They are also part of being able to access wisdom that is greater than all of us.

We need to get more and more adept at taking that kind of skill into whatever is our “marketplace.” We also need to be wise enough to know when we’re not able to do that and ask for help from others.
We can all learn to get better at tapping into a larger “group mind” or higher wisdom.

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If you’re feeling turmoil, sometimes it’s helpful to ask yourself…

How can I calm my turmoil and find a place of strength and peace?

Whether or not I can do that, how do I tap into a “group mind” or a higher power that can achieve more than any one person?

If I cannot do either of those things, where could I go to learn how? Am I willing to do that? If not, what could I do instead?

So… when you’re in turmoil, what do you do as answers to those or similar questions?

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I’d love to hear from you. If you have comments about this column or suggestions for future topics, e-mail Bonnie@BonnieHutchinson.com. I’ll happily reply within one business day.