2

Pierre Poilievre launches campaign in Camrose

Pictured, from left, are Anaida and Pierre Poilievre and Danielle and Damien Kurek in Camrose.

By Adan Shaikh

Pierre Poilievre opened the doors of his Camrose campaign office on July 2, at 6008-48 Avenue.

The community gathered to hear him speak about his plans for the Battle River-Crowfoot riding.

“This is probably the most important region in a lot of ways in the entire country. This is the place that feeds, powers and protects the nation. Feeds through ranchers and farmers, powers through oil and gas and protects through the great CFB Military Base in Wainwright,” said Poilievre.

“We are proud Canadians, I am a proud Canadian and I want Alberta to forever be part of Canada, which means we need to make deals fair for Alberta,” commented Poilievre.

“I want to use my national platform to give an even more amplified voice to the concerns of Albertans and the people of Battle River-Crowfoot in particular. I will continue to speak up for the same values I fought for my entire political career. Fighting for oil and gas, free enterprise, for small government, for law and order, and for our Armed Forces. These are the things I have believed in my whole life and these are the things I will pledge to champion on your behalf if you are kind enough to give me the chance to represent you,” he continued.
The by-election was officially called on June 30, and will be held on August 18.

The final list of candidates in the Battle River-Crowfoot riding will be released on July 30, and the last day of nominations is July 28.

Advance voting can be done from August 8 to 11 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at advance polling stations listed on the voter information card that eligible voters will receive in their mail.

For more information, visit elections.ca.
3

A day for fashion and heritage

Summer student, Halden Nicolajsen is busy preparing for the big event. Halden will be modelling some historical outfits at fashion show.

By Nadine Leming

The Camrose Heritage Railway Station’s Historical Fashion Exhibition is quickly approaching on Sunday, July 13, from 1 to 4 p.m. It’s surely going to delight as fashions through the decades will be featured interspersed with interesting facts about the Camrose Heritage Railway Station and Museum. This is one of four standard “third class” stations which was a common design for smaller communities.

People can expect a unique fashion show with models displaying novel items from the museum’s collection.  Fashions will include everything from high end to everyday wear.

Those attending are encouraged to wear historically inspired articles of clothing, whether that’s a hat, brooch, gloves or whatever piece that is on hand. Hats for both men or women can be borrowed from the museum for the afternoon.

Stick around after the fashion show for afternoon tea which will include sandwiches and desserts.

This event is open to the public to enjoy. Admission is free for this event, but donations will be welcomed.

While at the Camrose Heritage Railway Station, take time to enjoy the grounds, view the lovely gardens and tour what makes this museum’s history so fascinating to Camrose and area. In its heyday, the Camrose Train Station was a hub connecting several rail lines. This was a first stop for settlers from far and wide who chose to reside in Camrose.

This event will surely offer something of interest to people of all ages and interests. 
Rose City Rose and Lily Show
By Nadine Leming

The Camrose & District Horticultural Society will be hosting its annual show alongside the Irene Sharkey Memorial Tea on Thursday, July 17, at the Masonic Hall. This free event is open to the public between 2 to 4 p.m. Everyone is invited to view this extraordinary display of roses and lilies while you enjoy tea and delectables.

The good-natured competition is open to everyone, showcasing beautiful flowers, artwork, crafts and photo-graphy associated with roses and lilies. Competition books are available at Pedersen’s Florists, Bea’s Blooms, Nest Floral Studio, Camrose Heritage Railway Station and at the Centra Cam office.

“Several years ago we decided to include a special ‘People’s Choice’ section to include other garden flowers and houseplants, with notable children’s sections. Those attending become the judges and vote for their favourite entry in each class. It’s become very popular,” said Janine Carroll, president of the Camrose and District Horticultural Society.

For more information on how to enter or to receive your electronic copy of the competition book, please reach out to Janine at 780-608-6243.
5

The Hip Experience rocks Bailey

The Hip Experience is a tribute band to The Tragically Hip, their performance filled the room with authenticity and high energy.

By Nadine Leming

The Tragically Hip was truly experienced at the Bailey Theatre on July 2, with the tribute band The Hip Experience performing songs from the popular Canadian band. Hits like “Ahead by a Century” and “Courage“ were performed as front man Derek Lathrop channelled his inner Gord Downie. All you had to do was close your eyes and you almost believed you were listening to the iconic band.

The crowd was engaged throughout the show, enthusiastically clapping along to various songs. Cheers, whistles and dancing in seats describes how the audience appreciated the performance. Playing for a nice-sized crowd, each audience member relished reliving an era of great music. This is the type of environment encouraged in live performances at the Bailey.

Derek Lathrop, lead vocalist, told the audience, “We usually play in Edmonton or Calgary. On this current tour of western Canada, we’ve included communities like Camrose, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.”

The Hip Experience brought a high energy performance, which is what they have become known for, as well as an attention for detail recreating the style of the original band. Formed in 2017, their goal was to deliver an authentic tribute show, which they have successfully done.

“These songs are Canadian Anthems,” said Lathrop. He continued by saying, “The music still moves people of all ages today.  I’ve seen people moved to tears during performances.”

“I met a young girl in her 20s who never had the chance to see The Hip live, but feels like she did through our performance,” shared Lathrop.

This was an evening of sheer delight enjoyed by all. It was a show worthy of seeing the next time they roll through town.
6

Fishing and birding abounds at fish and game habitat property

Seven-year-old Payten Ness (top) and Kinsley Ness, 6, hone their fishing skills at the Pleasure Island Fish Pond east of Camrose. Other activities on the property include walking on the three trails, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and snowshoeing in the winter.

By Laurel Nadon

A day use area east of Camrose is gaining popularity for its walking trails, bird watching and stocked fishing pond, with more docks being added this summer. At the Camrose Fish and Game Habitat Property, Pleasure Island Fish Pond (previously known as Twomey’s Pond), the trout pond is stocked three times each summer by Alberta Conservation Association. In May, 1,800 rainbow, brook, brown and tiger trout were stocked. An additional 1,180 fish were added in June, with a third round to be stocked in July.

“We have more anglers for that size of trout pond than any other similar ponds that Alberta Conservation stocks,” said Glen Hand, president of Camrose and District Fish and Game Association. He noted that anglers even come from areas like Tofield and Edmonton to fish in the pond. “We encourage catch and release, but we go by the provincial fishing regulations.”

The property is located three miles east of Camrose on Highway 13 and then half a mile south on Range Road 195. The pond boasts 10 fishing stations and four fishing platforms–one wooden, wheelchair accessible dock and three floating docks. This summer, three more docks will be added.

Other popular activities on the 122-acre property include snowshoeing, bird watching, and hiking on three walking trails. The trails total two kilometres with two of the trails being off-leash for dogs. The property was originally a coal mine, with the club taking over in 1995 and adding the trails and docks. The first trail, running around the pond, was built right away, and the next two trails were added four years ago.

Near the pond there are two purple martin houses, two wood duck nesting boxes, a bat house and many swallow birdhouses. At a marsh on the same property, there are five goose nesting platforms as well as duck tunnels, which are tubes mounted above the water for nesting. There is also wildlife viewing, with deer and moose moving through the land.

“The area was developed by Camrose Fish and Game for the enhancement of fish and wildlife and to encourage people to come out and use the property,” Hand said. He added that he is still surprised by how many people don’t know about this area, but that it is popular with the people who use it.

“We get lots of people who come and say they enjoy coming out there,” Hand said, noting that many people also say it’s a great facility and handy being so close to Camrose. “Every year we try to do more improvements.”

Keith Wilcox, a fisherman from Bittern Lake, said he usually fishes at the pond about five or six times per summer.

“It’s so popular because it has so many docks,” Wilcox said. “It’s a great place to get people started fishing.”

Wilcox, who has been fishing since he was about three years old, usually catches rainbow trout at the pond, catching six small fish on his first trip there this season.

Amenities on the property include a picnic shelter with tables, and a propane barbecue with users supplying their own propane. A new outhouse was built last year in the south parking lot.
Backroads & Bootleg at Bailey
By Nadine Leming

Calling all country fans. The Backroads & Bootleg show is a tribute to 1990’s icons. This show will be presented by the Bailey Theatre on July 12 at 8 p.m. and will feature a special time in country music with classic renditions from the decade’s major country performers.

“This era of country music surged the genre into the popular mainstream with many artists having crossover hits.  Many of the musicians that will be performing have or still perform with popular Canadian country artists such as Brett Kissel, Gord Bamford and Lisa Brokop,” shared Gerard Gannon, band drummer.

“This could be the beginning of a variety of shows as it was difficult to limit the number of songs to 34 for this live show,” he continued.

This particular performance will feature the songs that envelop the craftsmanship of the decade. Expect elegant harmonies and meticulous musicianship that includes a variety of influences of the time. The energy felt from the stage will  renew the affection for this era in music.

The audience at this show will be blown away by the quality of the performance and will leave feeling well entertained.  Gannon encourages those inclined to participate in the show by getting up to dance as there will be plenty of room.

A true value for the quality of performance expected. Don’t miss out on these amazing Canadian musicians, The Alumni Allstars, in the Backroads & Bootleg show. This is a show sure not to disappoint.
For more information and tickets, go to baileytheatre.com.
Housing and Homeless Task Force reports to City council
By Adan Shaikh

The City of Camrose has noticed an increase in the number of homeless individuals in the community in the past couple of years. In response to the crisis, the City decided to use a multi-agency strategy aimed at prevention, intervention and long-term support.

At the June 23 Committee of the Whole Council, Executive Director of Camrose and District Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) Lyndel Kasa and Inspector John Corbett of Camrose Police updated City council on what the current situation is and which next steps the task force plans on taking to address the issue.

“Our mission as a task force is to ensure that everyone in the community has access to safe, secure and affordable housing,” said Kasa.

A significant part of the strategy is the implementation of Coordinated Access, a housing-first model that connects people at risk of or experiencing homelessness with a network of services through an intake and referral process. This system aims to reduce duplication, improve service equity and gather accurate data to inform future planning.

The task force also emphasized eviction prevention and tenancy education as proactive measures to keep individuals housed. Strategies include public education on tenant rights, mediation resources, and flexible payment plans for tenants at risk of eviction.

“Our scope of the work that we are doing has three areas. First is advocacy, which includes education, awareness and getting funding. Then we have our social services programming such as our eviction prevention model, addiction and mental health supports, and shelter response programs. The third part of our focus is housing and infrastructure  development, which includes transitional housing, affordable housing and looking forward to how we can ensure that we head across the whole housing continuum and we have all the different types of housing that is available in our community,” shared Kasa.

The presentation included a detailed wellness model beginning with basic needs and crisis interventions, leading through stabilization and eventually to permanent housing and employment. According to Camrose Police Service data, there were 341 calls involving 26 unsheltered individuals in 2024, and in 2025 that number is on track to triple.

The absence of consistent outreach and navigation support has been identified as a key gap.

“In March, we received 123 calls for service. In the month of April, we received 54 calls for service and only 14 calls in the month of May, which shows that the crisis intervention was the right tool to use and it is working. Now we are looking ahead at next steps, we are still noticing some significant gaps in the outreach side,” shared Inspector Corbett.

To close that gap, the task force is proposing the hiring of a community outreach navigator who would coordinate housing, ID, income assistance, and health support efforts, reducing demand on crisis services and increasing long-term stability for individuals in need.

Homelessness in Camrose is a complex issue requiring a collaborative and sustained response, and the task force is ready to lead that work.
9

Battle River Power Coop shares annual report

Power Scholars

Terry Pederson, right, of the Battle River Power Coop board presented five scholarships to students at the company’s AGM on June 19. Pictured from left are Susan Condon on behalf of Sydney Erickson of Viking, Brooklyn Holt of Bashaw, Julia Ford of Irma, and Bailey Maccan of Round Hill. Emma Crawford of Kinsella was unable to attend.

By Adan Shaikh

Battle River Power Coop held their annual general meeting (AGM) on June 19 at the Days Inn Camrose Norsemen.

The meeting began with the introduction of the board members and a heartfelt thank you to team members who make the work of Battle River Power Coop possible.

Battle River Power Coop (BRPC) is a member-owned not-for-profit rural electric distribution cooperative in central Alberta.

Board chairman Dan Astner welcomed the guests. “This past year brought significant changes to our industry. With those changes came challenges, but also opportunities to lead, to innovate, and to shape the future of rural electrification in Alberta,” he shared.

“Your board of directors has embraced this moment with resolve. We are not waiting for change to come; we are stepping forward to be the catalyst for it,” continued Astner.

This year’s AGM theme was: a catalyst for change. The meeting was a celebration of the evolution of BRPC and their services over the years.

“Last year we took a bold step toward our vision with the launch of our energy division Frontier Energy by Battle River Power Coop. Frontier Energy offers members a competitive fixed energy rate, providing predictability, affordability, and the peace of mind that comes from being part of a cooperative,” explained Bill Klassen, CEO of the organization.

One of the biggest announcements at this year’s AGM was the decision of Battle River Power Coop to leave the Alberta Federation of Rural Electrification Associations (AFREA).

“The board made the thoughtful and strategic decision to leave AFREA. This was not a decision made lightly. It followed deep reflection on how best to serve our members and help our industry evolve,” commented Astner.

Now the organization is turning its focus towards the opportunities and the role it can play in shaping the future of energy in Alberta.

After sharing their reports, executive director of the board Terry Pederson presented this year’s scholarships to dependants of members, who will be starting their post-secondary schooling this fall.

Recipients were Julia Ford from Irma who will be attending the University of Alberta Augustana Campus to study Pharmaceuticals. Sydney Erickson from Viking will be attending MacEwan University to learn Physical Science.

Bailey Maccan from Round Hill received a scholarship that will go towards her education at University of Alberta Augustana Campus, earning a Bachelor of Science degree.

Brooklyn Holt from Bashaw received a scholarship to go towards her first year at Lakeland College. Brooklyn will be studying Veterinarian Technology.

Emma Crawford from Kinsella received a scholarship for her first year in the Business Administration program at Lakeland College.

In 2024, Battle River Power Coop saw a 17 per cent reduction in transmission rate and expects to see a nine per cent savings rate in transmission charged this year.

The report highlighted that the members on the Frontier Energy fixed rate contract saved around 19 per cent compared to average retailer rates from past years.

“Over the past year, we saw a 26 per cent reduction in member outages. Unplanned outages dropped by 31 per cent, which means 2,200 fewer members experienced a power disruption,” commented Klassen.

As Battle River Power Coop reflected on the previous year and shared plans for the future, the organization sees itself as a safeguard and wears the responsibility with pride. Battle River Power Coop plans on improving its advocacy efforts to build stronger relationships with decision makers in the community.
Kodiaks give back
By Nadine Leming

Eric Kroetch, Kodiaks  general manager stated, “last year, we decided that the Kodiaks wanted to do something new to give back to the community that continues to support us. We moved forward with ‘goals for kids.’ We found two sponsors in Camrose that were excited to partner with us for this great initiative that went towards youth in our community.”

For every Kodiak’s goal scored in the regular season, the Days Inn Camrose Norsemen and Camrose Chrysler collectively donated $25 per goal towards a youth program in our community. This past season, the team scored 183 totalling $4,575 in support of “goals for kids.”

The Days Inn Camrose Norsemen decided to donate their portion to the Battle River School Division Breakfast Program. This donation is vital to ensure that each child doesn’t have to worry about hunger getting in the way of a quality education. Children are able to concentrate better on a full stomach and is so important to their development on many levels. Kroetch added, “I couldn’t agree more on this money going to a worthy program to assist in this way.”

Camrose Chrysler wanted their donation to be in memory of a loved one who had recently passed away. Jean Cook was a big supporter of Kodiaks Hockey and youth sports in Camrose for many years. To them, it made sense to donate to Kid Sport Camrose. Kid Sport provides grants to help cover the costs of registration fees to children aged 18 and under in Camrose to allow them to play for one season of sport.

With the rising costs of everything, it can put a financial burden on families trying to make ends meet. This is an opportunity for children to participate in activities while it helps to relieve some of the financial burden.
11

Muyers owns a 1984 Chevy Stepside

Duanne Muyers drove into Bawlf in his beloved 1984 Chevy Stepside, turning heads with the great condition of the truck.

By Adan Shaikh

Duanne Muyers isn’t a collector. He doesn’t have a garage full of vintage vehicles or a trailer for hauling showpieces from town to town. What he does have is a truck he loves – a 1984 Chevrolet Stepside, that holds a special place in his life.

At the Bawlf Show and Shine in May, this truck had all the heads turning in its direction. It’s the kind of vehicle that speaks for itself, drawing attention with its bold lines, classic stance and unmistakable personality.

The 1984 Chevy Stepside stands out in a crowd of modern pickups. Built during the final years of the square-body generation, this truck carries all the charm and simplicity of the 1980s. Unlike fleetside models with flat bed sides, the stepside came with rear fenders that flared out, giving it that signature curve and narrower cargo box.

“I was working on the road and needed a reliable vehicle,  dependable vehicle and I saw it and fell in love with it. I never even took it for a test drive, I just bought it,” said Muyers.
The body has been restored with care and attention to detail. There’s no over-the-top customization or flashy aftermarket add-ons.

Instead, the Chevy has been kept close to stock, honouring its original design. Chrome bumpers, dual mirrors, and a clean front grille bring out the vintage style. The short-box design gives it a compact, muscular look, while wide tires and polished wheels keep it grounded on the road.
“I repainted it. After eight years of winter driving, the back fenders had rusted out so I fixed that,” he commented.

One of the most interesting changes that Muyers has made to the truck is installing a sunroof.

“It has been a really good truck. I changed the rims, I installed a sunroof in it, but other than that, it is as original as it comes,” said Muyers.

The truck is no longer his daily driver, but still gets driven for car shows when Muyers has time.

“It has a little 305 standard 4-barrel 3 speed compound low,” shared Muyers.

The engine is clean, well-maintained, and reliable, rumbles to life with ease.

Inside, the cab offers a throwback to 1980’s comfort. Vinyl seating, manual windows, and a simple dash layout create a driving experience that’s refreshingly minimal. There’s no touchscreen, no lane assist, no Wi-Fi. Just a key in the ignition, the sound of the engine, and the open road ahead.

“This is my truck,” is all Muyers needs to say when asked about it. There’s no long list of modifications or a binder full of show entries. Just one man and one vehicle he loves to drive. In a world full of fast-changing technology and over-complicated machines, the 1984 Chevy Stepside is a refreshing reminder that sometimes, one well-loved classic is all you need.
12

Augustana Class of 2025 Convocation

President and vice-chancellor of the University of Alberta and professor Bill Flanagan, left, presented graduate Hailey E. Anderson with her degree. Hailey received a Bachelor of Science Degree with distinction and won the Governor General Silver Medal, the Augustana Medal and the Science Medal.

By Adan Shaikh

University of Alberta Augustana Campus held its spring convocation ceremonies on June 5.

Presiding the ceremonies was Dr. Nizar J. Somji, Chancellor of U of A.

Student Nguavese Ukange performed the national anthem before chancellor Somji welcomed the graduating class.

“Today’s ceremony connects you to a generation of scholars,” said chancellor Somji. “Your caps symbolize your scholarly independence and the academic gowns and faculty hoods signify your earned degrees,” he continued.

Ms. Kate Chisholm, chair of the Board of Governors of U of A, addressed the graduates on behalf of the board and congratulated them.

Professor Bill Flanagan, president and vice-chancellor, also addressed the graduates before leading them in the pledge and presenting them their degrees.

The graduates now head into a world of possibilities, armed with knowledge and expertise, ready to leave their mark.
Samantha King and the Midnight Outfit
By Murray Green

Camrose Blues Festival is coming to the Bailey Theatre August 15 and 16.

At this festival they will have a wonderful line-up of musicians ready to move the audience with their talents, including one band whose album has been nominated for 2025 JUNO award in the Blues Album of the Year category–Samantha King and the Midnight Outfit.

This isn’t the first time she has come to Camrose. “We have played at the Big Valley Jamboree a few times,” shared Samantha King.

This ensemble is known for mesmerizing  audiences with their electrifying chemistry. At the forefront is Samantha, whose vocals resonate with raw emotion and driving the rhythm is the formidable Sandro Dominelli on drums.

Bringing a hint of rock is the cool Marc Beaudin on electric bass, providing the perfect balance, while electrifying Chris Tabbert dazzles on guitar.

King is looking forward to playing at the historical Bailey Theatre. “For me the more intimate the venue the better. When you play in a theatre like that, there is just such a vibe, I love what they are doing with this Blues Festival, they are creating something meaningful and they are keeping the love of music alive,” commented King.

“I started singing professionally in 1998 and I started with Country music. I put out a Country album in 2003, I had good success with that, I was nominated for a few different Country music awards. I got to work with Randy Bachman (The Guess Who, Bachman Turner Overdrive), I did a demo with him, there was a song called ‘My Baby’s Got a Baby’ which was a blues song. At the time I really loved the blues, I was still pretty young to be able to sing it right. It was about 10 years ago when I realized that my happiest singing state was when I was singing the blues. It is now turning more into a blues/rock music,” shared Samantha.

After two successful albums, Samantha and the group still enjoy playing in smaller venues. She looks forward to performing at the Bailey Theatre.

For new artists still finding their voice she has one piece of advice, “just focus on what you want to do rather than what you see everyone else doing. It is really important to sing and play what you love and we create our own audiences as we go along.”

Samantha King and the Midnight Outfit will perform on August 16 at 6:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit www.baileytheatre.com.
Managing a loved one’s money
By Murray Green

Juggling one’s own finances and the responsibilities of another person’s money can take its toll. Here are several ways to navigate these often tricky waters.

The number of retirees is on the rise. Those over age 65 will need help taking care of themselves.

Caregiving is a big responsibility. One crucial role caregivers may take on involves managing a loved one’s finances. Millions of Canadians are managing money or property for a family member or friend who is unable to pay bills or make financial decisions.

Discuss plans in advance. Talking through difficult topics when parents are healthy can simplify decisions later on.

Open a joint account. Joint bank accounts make it easier for caregivers to manage loved ones’ money if the person becomes physically or mentally incapacitated.

Make legal fiduciary changes. A power of attorney is a legal document in which one person assigns another the power to make financial decisions on their behalf. This also protects family interests, so that another relative like a sibling, who may want his or her share of a loved one’s money, will not have access. Documenting fiduciary changes in the letter of the law can serve as a measure of protection against potential problems.

Put your priorities first. You may end up running yourself emotionally and financially ragged catering to a loved one’s needs. Adults provide unpaid care to an adult or child. Taking repeated time off of work or paying for loved ones’ needs out of your own pocket can take its financial toll.

Do not take on unmanageable debt.

Ask for help. Speak with a financial advisor and/or elder care attorney about the best ways to manage a loved one’s money to ensure an aging parent or child will be provided for. Arranging assets in certain ways can make individuals eligible for certain benefits.

Managing money is just one of the many tasks associated with being a caregiver.
Blessed Carlo Acutis Catholic School
received occupancy permit

By Adan Shaikh

Blessed Carlo Acutis Catholic School is finally open. The school administration team received the keys and occupancy permit at the end of June.

The school is set to open in September and is now working on launching their new social media accounts for updates. The school staff is working through the summer to ensure the school is ready to welcome students in a healthy learning environment.

The school administration thanked the City of Camrose, MLA Jackie Lovely, the dedicated staff and the Camrose community for their unwavering support in helping the school move forward.

Registration information can be found on the school website https://bca.eics.ab.ca/
 
Bonnie

Reflections

By Bonnie Hutchinson

Nature mirrored back
 
When I was a little girl growing up in Camrose, the jewel now called Mirror Lake was “the dam.” It was dark dirty water that accumulated when Stoney Creek was dammed up.

I am old enough to remember when the then Town of Camrose made decisions that would reserve the area around Stoney Creek and “the dam” as park.

This was not an easy sell. It was hard to imagine anything besides murky water and scruffy brush in the centre of town. It took vision and persistence to convince others that things like “nature” and “park” were worth more to the town than selling the land for development.

I thought of all that as I read an article about the impact of being in nature.

***

I have noticed for a long time that if I go for even a short walk outside, I feel better. If the walk takes me through trees and grass, I feel better yet. Maybe you’ve noticed that too.

The article I read says that, besides the physical benefits of fresh air and greenery, being in nature has mental and emotional benefits. A growing body of research tells us this:
 
  • Being in and around nature lowers your heart rate and creates a sense of inner peace and happiness.
  • Spending time outside in nature  can lower your cortisol, pulse rate and blood pressure.
  • Being outdoors can increase your physical and mental energy in as little as 20 minutes.
  • Walking in nature lowers harmful “mental rumination.” (I had to look it up! It means going over and over bad feelings and experiences from the past, which is a risk factor for depression.)
  • Being outdoors can help you sleep better.
  • Kids who go to schools with more greenery do better on tests that require the ability to think.

In short, research shows what some people have known their whole lives. Being outside, being in nature, helps you feel better emotionally and also helps you think better.

***

Back to Camrose and the jewel that is Mirror Lake. How fortunate that – long before it was fashionable – visionary councillors and administrators thought it was important to keep that area for park, and then to beautify it. (They probably didn’t know they were helping us mentally and emotionally too!)

I remember as the area was kept natural, but with walking trails and other enhancements. Gradually, year by year, new trails were added. That created more and more places where people could enjoy walking, running, biking or skiing.

Some of my favourite adult memories are of my mom and I walking the paths around Mirror Lake. It delights me when I go by the Mirror Lake Centre and see children on the playground equipment, and people sitting on the benches just enjoying the water, the ducks and maybe the odd muskrat swimming by.

***

The article I read pointed out something else. If a natural scene that pleases you has litter – even a small amount – that litter reduces the positive impact of being in nature. In experiments, even a tiny amount of litter greatly lowered the “restorativeness” of the scene. It made the research participants feel unhappy and less calm. Litter is not just bad for the environment. It’s bad for your mental health too.

***

I know people from the east country who choose to come to Camrose or stop in Camrose on their way to Edmonton. That’s because they like heading west to that place on Highway 13 just past 51 Street where the view of Mirror Lake opens up. If it happens to be at sunset, that’s even better.

Maybe when we see beauty, it is mirrored back to us. May we all have that kind of eye.
***

I’d love to hear from you. If you have comments about this column or suggestions for future topics, send an email to Bonnie@BonnieHutchinson.com. I’ll happily reply within two business days.