Conlan Davey Memorial Golf Tournament


By Nadine Leming

On September 13, the Conlan Davey Memorial Foundation will be hosting the fourth annual fundraising golf tournament. This is a fun opportunity for golfers of all skill sets to get out and enjoy the course. As in past years, there will be games, door prizes, silent auction, dinner and more.

A unique feature of this tournament is the opportunity to win Best Dressed Team. The only rule to this contest is the outfits must be pink, Conlan’s favourite colour. In the past, teams have been very creative, having fun getting dressed for the day.

The Conlan Davey Memorial Foundation began in 2022 and became a recognized non-profit on September 9, 2024, on what would have been Conlan’s 16th birthday. All the funds raised help support and empower children in the Camrose area. The Foundation’s goal is to give children an opportunity to thrive and enjoy life without being held back due to economic status.

Over the last few years, the Foundation has donated to the Battle River Community Foundation, KidSport and the Camrose and District Soccer Association. Each of these organizations have supported communities and children, so it seemed a natural fit. Currently, they are exploring how individual children or families can directly apply to the Foundation for support. All applications would be approved by the board.

For anyone who doesn’t know Conlan’s story, he was a child full of energy and passion. He stood out in a crowd with his signature curly hair. He was constantly on the go, never walking, but always running. Conlan lived his short 13-year life on full tilt and loved playing sports. His favourite sport was soccer, having played with the Camrose Vikings for seven years. The Vikings continue to hold a special place in the hearts of his family.

“Ever since Conlan was little, he loved to help. He was there when you needed a hug, stood up for someone who couldn’t themselves, or just to lend a helping hand, especially when it came to children. He was always someone you could count on. “We wanted to honour him in that same way with this foundation” said Franny Davey, Foundation president.

There are many ways for the community to support the Foundation. People can register for the golf tournament, volunteer, plan fundraising with them, donate bottles or even just get the word out. The Foundation’s website will be going live soon at www.conlandavey.ca for more ways to get involved.

Celebrating Camrose Heritage Day

August 23 was Heritage Day in Camrose and celebrated with opening ceremony at the Bailey. The day also included a historic walk of the Old Sparling area, Indigenous Drumming and Dancers at the Centennial Museum, historic presentations at the Camrose Heritage Railway Museum and cemetery  tour with an unveiling of special plaques recognizing Pe-o-kis and his son Louis LaPointe’s gravesites. Early settlers of Camrose were respectfully honoured throughout the day. 
Heritage drum
Heritage plaque
Heritage david

City declares surplus land


By Adan Shaikh

Camrose City Council has declared two parcels of city-owned land as surplus, opening the way for their potential sale or redevelopment. The lots were rezoned in 2023 to support industrial development and are located within the Airport Vicinity Protection Area, which means that the lots can only be used for certain developments that would not interfere with the airport operations.

City administration shared that the sites had no identified future use for the city and could generate revenue if sold by reducing the ongoing and future costs of maintenance.

Declaring the lands surplus does not automatically trigger their sale. The City will first complete appraisals and then determine the best method to dispose of the properties, which could include a public tender or direct sale, depending on market conditions and interest.

Poilievre elected as MP

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Pierre Poilievre won the Battle River-Crowfoot by-election with 40,458 votes.

By Adan Shaikh

On August 18, Pierre Poilievre of the Conservative Party of Canada won the Battle River-Crowfoot by-election with 80.9 per cent of the vote. Out of 51,085 ballots cast, Poilievre received 41,308 votes, securing a clear victory.

“Thank you very much to the great people of Battle River-Crowfoot, if I stand before you here today, it is by the grace of God and the good generosity of so many people. The first of which I must start with is my incredible wife, Ana. Ana, you have been an incredible rock for our family. You’ve been the glue that has bound us all together,” Poilievre said in his victory speech.

He paid tribute to his children Valentina and Cruz. “I want them to know that we do this work for them and for all of Canada’s kids,” said Poilievre.

He expressed gratitude to outgoing MP Damien Kurek. “Thank you to the incredible Damien Kurek, whose gracious sacrifice has made this moment possible.”

Poilievre highlighted the resilience of the riding’s farmers, tradespeople and workers and criticized the federal policies for hollowing out rural communities. He pledged to fight for not only the people in the region but all Canadians.

“This incredible region and its amazing people have suffered terribly over the last 10 years. I have seen the main streets that have been hollowed out and the trade workers who are underemployed because there is just not the work as the federal government has attacked the oil and gas sector and favoured foreign producers,” commented Poilievre.

“This fall, as Parliament returns, we will not only oppose out-of-control Liberal inflation, crime, immigration, cost of living and housing prices. But we will propose real solutions for safe streets, secure borders, a strong and sovereign country with bigger take-home pay for our people,” he shared.

Poilievre, who has spent the last couple months door knocking and travelling through out the Battle River-Crowfoot riding, shared how enjoyable and informative the experience has been for him.

“Getting to know the people in this region has been the privilege of my life. In fact, I’ve had a hell of a lot of fun. Whether its been at the bronc matches or the rodeos or walking into a parking lot and some guy I don’t even know walks up and offers me a big bag of beef jerky. It doesn’t happen in the city,” he commented.

“You see the people in these communities, they fight their own battles, but they’re always ready to stop and help a neighbour or a friend,” he continued.

Poilievre closed by emphasizing perseverance: “Because as my mother, who’s here today, taught me, when you get knocked down, you get up and you keep on going. If you believe in what you’re doing, you march forward. So I say to all of the people, not just in the great region of Battle River-Crowfoot, but right across this country–you haven’t given up, so I won’t give up.”

The morning after his win, Poilievre and his wife Ana stood on a sidewalk facing Highway 13 holding signs to thank the voters of Battle River-Crowfoot for their support.

“As I drove west through Camrose, there were flags and signs waving just before Boston Pizza. No lineup or security blocks. Pierre Poilievre and his wife were simply standing on the sidewalk, waving to people driving to work, to say thanks,” shared local resident Richard Near, who on his way to work, had the opportunity to meet the MP in person.

“I took the opportunity to thank Pierre Poilievre in person and to wish him the very best of success in Ottawa. He and his wife thanked me for my support. It might be the only Prime Minister I ever get to shake hands with, or meet before he is Prime Minister,” commented Near.

As the Conservative leader prepares for his return to Parliament, one thing is clear–the vast majority of constituents are excited and honoured to be represented by him.

Experience the Stevie Nicks Project


By Nadine Leming

Stevie Nicks is known for her distinctive voice, powerful song writing and amazing stage presence. She significantly contributed to Fleetwood Mac’s success, writing the band’s only number one song “Dreams”, on top of her own triumphant career with over 40 Top 50 hits.

The Stevie Project (TSP) was formed in 2024 including Laurie Slater as the lead vocalist. Prior to TSP, Laurie performed with Mac Daddy, The Fleetwood Mac Experience from 2017 to 2022, performing in sold out shows across Alberta.
TSP continues with three original band members from Mac Daddy and three new members. The audience at the August 30 performance can expect to be taken on a half century journey telling the story of Stevie’s life as a singer/songwriter from her life as a young woman to today.

Laurie has performed in a variety of tributes back in the mid-90s and 2000s and has performed all across Canada with great bands playing country, rock and pop. She was invited to audition with Mac Daddy in 2017 for the role of Stevie Nicks.

“I was thrilled as I adore Stevie and love to sing her songs while channelling her mystical goddess,” said Laurie.

Once the band ended when Covid hit, she focused on creating TSP performing Stevie’s music.

Singing and performing are in Laurie’s blood. She continued, “My mom used to say the second I step on stage I become the real Laurie.”

She loves to sing from the heart and enjoys the energy that goes both ways with the audience as they sing and dance along.

The TSP band features the incredible music of Stevie Nicks. The show is on August 30 at 7:00 p.m. at the Bailey  and will tell Stevie’s story of the woman behind the songs.

Laurie concluded with, “I hope they (the audience) walk away feeling so good, inside and out.”

Taste Night at the Museum


Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

The Camrose and District Centennial Museum was hustling and bustling with excitement and smiles as many locals and tourists enjoyed the annual Taste Night At The Museum.  This year 23 vendors took part in the event with all proceeds from the event go towards Kinnettes Club Silent Santa Toy Drive and the Camrose Centennial Museum Society.

 
Taste night cheers
Taste night museum
Sweeterie taste night

Grateful Grannies of Camrose say goodbye


By Adan Shaikh

After 16 years of dedication, the Grateful Grannies of Camrose & Area wrapped up their work this July, closing an inspiring chapter in the City’s history of international service, due to a lack of volunteers. As part of the Stephen Lewis Foundation’s Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign, the group raised $230,286.00 to support grandmothers in sub-Saharan Africa who are raising grandchildren orphaned by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. More than 200 local people contributed their time, talents and generosity to make that achievement possible.

“We raised money here  and we would put the funds towards the campaign and it would be in Africa within the week. They have local groups in the areas and they already know what is needed in their specific areas. The organization there would then put the funds towards their causes such as transportation to school, food security, access to medicine, it could be anything,” explained Teresa Roth, chair and secretary of Grateful Grannies of Camrose and Area.

The Grannies take pride in the difference they made for their “grandmother sisters” in Africa, while also remembering the positive experiences, friendships and good times shared along the way. In Camrose, the group became known for their creative fundraising efforts, from the popular Christmas Market at Bailey Theatre with handmade angels and gnomes, to Valentine cookie sales, fabric and “glam” sales and other events that became part of the local calendar.

The Grannies expressed gratitude to the Camrose community for standing behind them year after year. “Camrose is a big-hearted city with amazing volunteers, businesses and supporters,” said Teresa.

While the local group has now disbanded, the need in Africa is as strong as ever. The Stephen Lewis Foundation’s Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign continues to support community-based programs that empower African grandmothers caring for children and strengthening their communities. Since it began in 2006, the campaign has raised more than $40 million worldwide.

Those who wish to continue supporting the cause can visit the campaign’s website for more information grandmotherscampaign.org.
Constable Reinson joins Camrose Police
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Const. Connor Reinson joined the Camrose Police Service just a few months ago and is excited to be serving the community. He has already worked through the busy Big Valley Jamboree long weekend.

By Adan Shaikh

Const. Connor Reinson has joined the Camrose Police Service, bringing years of law enforcement experience and a strong commitment to community involvement.

“It is an opportunity to get involved in the community, make a difference and take a lot of pride in what I do in my day-to-day life. Working with people, being part of a team, being involved in challenging situations day in and day out, being a police officer offers all of that and that is something I really value in life,” he shared.

Reinson’s interest in law enforcement began in school when his hockey coach, who was involved with the Edmonton Police Service, inspired him to consider the field.

“In high school I had a hockey coach, he was a detective with Edmonton Police Service and that was kind of the first influence I had that made me want to pursue a career in this field. Ten years later, I tried my hand in law enforcement. I started off as a correctional officer in 2020 and after that I became a sheriff in Edmonton. As sheriff, my main role was as an instructor, and from there, the more I learned, the more I wanted to be a police officer,” he explained.

Having lived in Edmonton his entire life, Reinson said he was drawn to Camrose for its smaller community feel while still maintaining a city atmosphere.

“When I was in university I came to Camrose all the time to play hockey and I moved here when I was first hired in November,” he said.

Reinson also hopes to be involved with the City’s youth.

“I went to school because I wanted to be a teacher. I never ended up being a teacher, but one thing I really want to pursue in Camrose is being involved within the schools. Whether that is becoming a school resource officer, or getting involved with charities, I would like to make a positive impact on the youth in our community,” he said.

Constable Reinson’s addition to the Camrose Police Service marks a new chapter in his career and he looks forward to contributing to the safety and well-being of the community.

Next at  Lougheed Centre


By Nadine Leming

The Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre has a great lineup planned this fall.

Featuring the Soul Man himself, Lee Siegel will pay tribute to the defining voices of the genre on September 11 at 7:30 p.m. Supported by an all-star horn and rhythm section, audiences won’t want to miss this profound musical experience. Expect a performance that will touch the very depths of the soul.

Music of the Night: The Concert Tour returns to Camrose on September 14 at 2 p.m. Enjoy a live band and incredible voices as you experience this concert featuring selections from The Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Cats and more.

Biking for Glenrose

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Scott Douglas will be riding his handcycle 58.5 kilometres to raise funds for the Glenrose.

By Nadine Leming

In 2004, Scott Douglas was in a devastating snowmobile accident at high speed that left him with a spinal cord injury. His boss at the time, had a strange feeling, he needed to drive down the same stretch of road where Scott was lying inured. He calls this a life-changing moment, the time his phenomenal life started.

According to Scott, one of his doctors, Dr. Guthrie said to him, “My friend, I want you to know one simple thing. The wheelchair beside your bed is to give you a new life. The choice is yours to make today. You can either become better or bitter, that choice is 100% yours.”

He was overwhelmed but chose to respond by saying, “I probably won’t know you in five to ten years, but I choose to make my life one to remember and live life to its fullest.”

It is his positive mindset that has helped him move forward in life. He realized at a young age that life is short, so he spends time giving back to the community to causes that are important to him, like the Glenrose.

He spent three months at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. He credits his recovery time there giving him the tools he needed to adapt and build a new future. Scott was determined not to let his injury define him and pursued his dream of becoming an auctioneer. He also returned to a sport he always loved–cycling.

In 2006, the community came together to help purchase his first handcycle. All this time later, Scott is still cycling. He is so grateful to the team at the Glenrose that this year he is the patient ambassador, participating in the 10th Annual Courage Ride at Pigeon Lake on September 6. His goal is to help with the fundraising efforts with 150 other riders to restore access to the vital rehabilitation centre that has helped thousands of Albertans like him.

Every day is a new beginning with new opportunities for Scott. His word of advice for anyone going through a difficult time is, “Life is a choice. Today may be a struggle, but it’s how I make that struggle into a positive that makes that struggle a new beginning of hope.” Very wise words from a man who knows about difficult times.

This year, the funds raised will support rebuilding the Glenrose’s aquatic therapy pool, which was forced to close in January after 60 years due to  structural failure.

For more information or to donate, go to www.courageride.ca.
Drews “devised himself a plan” with his 1965 Ford Custom
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Marvin Drews modified his Ford Custom to look almost identical to the Ford Crown Victoria that he really wanted. Inspired by the Johnny Cash song, he has the words “One Piece At A Time” written on the back of the car.

By Adan Shaikh

Marvin Drews owns a 1965 Ford Custom. The car that was once parked and forgotten for half a century has now become a one-of-a-kind classic with Drews’ labour and care, as he puts it, “one piece at a time.”

He found the car eight years ago.

“It was on an acreage, it had been sitting there for 50 years, it was all rust. I am a Ford guy and I needed something to play with. I have another one of these in blue. I know everything there is to know about these cars,” he said.

“It was originally bought for a 16-year-old girl who lent it to her boyfriend, an oil rig worker. He got the car stuck in two feet of gumbo and in trying to get it out he blew the inline six-cylinder motor off. So her dad went back and towed the car back home and put it on the middle of the acreage and mowed grass around it for 50 years,” said Drews.

Determined to bring it back, Drews rebuilt the vehicle with a 390-cubic inch V8 and a three-speed automatic transmission, giving it new life and an iconic look.

“I always liked the cars that had two-tone pinks. Ford made one and GM had their pink, Cadillacs and Chrysler had one too. I couldn’t afford a 1956 Ford Crown Victoria in two-tone pink, so I thought I’d make my own. I got the paint, put in the molded carpet and I had a lady in Camrose do the seats for me. I also set a whole set of lights across the back for brake lights. So if you don’t see my brake lights come on you will see that,” he said.

The finishing touches were just as creative. He bought new fenders, stretched the back end and extended the bumper to give the car a longer profile. He painted the car pink and black to match the look of a  Crown Victoria. “The bumper was much closer and I extended it and filled it in. I put it together one piece at a time like the Johnny Cash song,” he said.

The song he refers to, “One Piece at a Time,” tells the story of Cash sneaking Cadillac parts out of the GM factory where he worked and assembling them into a mismatched car that was unlike any other. Drews laughs at the comparison. Unlike Cash’s song, he didn’t steal any parts, but he did use the song as inspiration.

“Like the song says, I’ll have the only one around,” he said. And, like the Cadillac in the song that famously had only one tail fin, Drews’ Ford Custom also carries that quirk sets.

For him, that’s part of the fun. His car, stitched together with patience, pride and personality, is truly the only one of its kind.

Big Block Party is back


By Adan Shaikh

Love Local will be back with their annual Big Block Party, on September 6 on Main Street Camrose from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“This year we are adding local music performers and we are hoping to partner with the Bailey Theatre on the entertainment,” shared Tania Greenwald, chair and founder of Love Local Camrose.

Tania started the Big Block Party initiative to bring the community together while also highlighting local businesses and all they offer to Camrose.

This year’s Block Party is sponsored by 5 Star Home Solutions. With help from generous sponsors, Love Local keeps the costs low and the event accessible to all families and individuals.

“The bouncy castles will be coming back this year with some bigger ones, to make it more interactive for the older age groups. We also have an escape room coming this year. We want to make sure that there is something for everyone,” shared Tania.

“My dad is building a giant KerPlunk game and Camrose and District Family and Community Support Services will be bringing some mini carnival games. Our market vendors and business owners will be out front with their specials,” continued Tania.

Attendees can stroll through vendor booths, enjoy tasty local food, watch live entertainment, and let the kids dive into all the fun activities. The Big Block Party is the perfect way to celebrate community, connect with friends and neighbours, and make lasting memories as summer comes to an end.

For more information and to purchase wristbands for the event, visit www.eventbrite.com
Camrose Toyota Grand Opening
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From left, president of Legacy Auto Group, Kolby Bouck; president of Camrose Chamber of Commerce, Jennifer Fossen; executive director of Camrose Chamber of Commerce, Aaron Morris; Toyota vice president of sales and marketing, Bob Tsang; owner of Legacy Auto Group, Del Bouck; Charlene Bouck; general manager of Legacy Dodge Wetaskiwin, Opey Adeyemi; Glynis Boardman; Camrose Toyota general manager, Patrick Boardman; Camrose Toyota sales manager Scott Montgomery; vice president of Legacy Auto Group, Ross North; director of Toyota sales and field operations, Steve Pilkey; Toyota dealer development manager, Vaughn Thibault; Camrose Toyota finance manager Mark Heroux; Mayor PJ Stasko; City Councillor, Don Rosland; and City Councillor Kevin Hycha, alongside additional Toyota team members.

By Adan Shaikh

Camrose Toyota held their grand opening celebration on August 21. The new dealership building was filled with approximately 350 community members, as they joined the Camrose Toyota team to celebrate.

The event began with a delicious catered lunch for the attendees and fun activities for the younger members of the community.

Several Toyota executives made the trip to Camrose for the ribbon cutting ceremony, which was held to conclude the celebrations at 5 p.m. City officials, including Mayor PJ Stasko as well as members from the Camrose Chamber of Commerce, attended the event to congratulate the Toyota team.

“I think the goal with being in a close knit community such as Camrose is, to be honest and up front, it is a pretty simple business if you make it that way,” commented general manager Patrick Boardman.

“I was blown away by how many people showed up for the Grand Opening. I received a lot of good feedback, people enjoyed being here,” said Boardman.

He highlighted the importance of building long-lasting relationships with the customers. Boardman and his team look forward to working in Camrose and providing the best level of service and support possible to their clients.
Camrose Ski Club looking for volunteers

By Nadine Leming

The Camrose Ski Club is currently recruiting volunteer coaches for several youth programs and are looking to the community. They are seeking coaches for their Bunnies, Bunny Rabbits, and Jack Rabbits programs.

They are also looking for a new coach for Track Attack. This program trains Tuesdays and Thursdays in the evening. Prior to the trails being ski-able, dryland training is one night a week beginning in  October.

The Adventure Ski Program is for skiers that have completed Jack Rabbits, but are not interested in focusing on competitions like in Track Attack or Junior Racers. This program focuses more on skiers with prior experience looking for more of the social aspect of the sport than on formal instruction. If you are interested in coaching at this level, please reach out to the Ski Dlub.

Another opportunity to give back to the club is by volunteering for the board of directors. Currently there are three open director positions for Biathlon Facilities, Adult Cross Country and Running.

The Ski Club wants to show its gratitude for all who have already said yes to volunteering on the board, whether it’s for the first time as well as to those continuing from previous years. Your time and talents are needed and appreciated.

For anyone interested in learning more about how to volunteer or information on the Ski Club, go to camroseskiclub.com or email skiclubcamrose@gmail.com.
 

STARS present plaque to BRCF treasurer

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From left, STARS nurse Marla Tabler; BRCF treasurer Neil Lunty; STARS donor relations and development officer Shannon Paquette; and STARS paramedic Angela Mazzoli.

Submitted

Battle River Community Foundation treasurer, Neil Lunty, received a plaque from the Shocked Trauma and Rescue Services (STARS). The plaque is in thanks for the $10,000 granted from the Foundation to STARS in 2024 and to acknowledge that the funds received allowed the organization to respond to a medical emergency in Castor.

Paquette states, “STARS is celebrating 40 years of serving Albertans. That is 40 years of providing critical care anywhere and making an impact on patients, their families, and their communities. Since our start in 1985 we have flown over 63,000 missions to date and this would not be possible without the support of the communities we serve. We are fortunate to have amazing allies such as the Battle River Community Foundation who believe in our mission and provide necessary funding for us to be there for the next patient in need. We are so grateful for these partnerships as they help us give hope to those in their worst moments.”

Along with the plaque, BRCF treasurer Lunty and his wife Lilyon received a tour of the Edmonton STARS facility, including a look inside one of the organization’s helicopters. They also learned much about the operations of the organization, such as there are always staff, including a nurse, paramedic and pilot on call so that a STARS air ambulance can be ready to go where needed in as little as 15 minutes.

STARS began in Alberta as an idea of Dr. Greg Powell and with support from Lions Club International. Today, the organization operates in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba and, according to its 2024/25 Year in Review, flew 3,694 missions this past year. This includes 1,540 in Alberta alone and 66 from Camrose and the Battle River region. STARS responds to a variety of critical care calls but the highest percentage, 21%, are related to a cardiac issue, followed close behind, at 19%, by motor vehicle incidents. STARS is a fundraising cause close to the heart of many in Camrose and the Battle River region. The Battle River Community Foundation is proud to be making a contribution to its amazing work.

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

Grants from the Battle River Community Foundation are primarily made possible through the generosity of individual donors and organizations that have created endowment funds. The principal of these endowment funds is kept intact and the income is made available annually to support local projects and organizations.

Since it was founded in 1995, the Battle River Community Foundation has granted over $9,891,300 to support charitable activities in the Battle River Region.
Round Hill Annual Harvest Show and Shine

By Adan Shaikh

As the leaves begin to turn yellow and the summer heat fades, fall is just around the corner. To celebrate the beginning of  harvest season, the Round Hill and District Agricultural Society is hosting its annual Harvest Show and Shine on September 7.

The day begins with a pancake breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Round Hill Agricultural Grounds. Vehicle registration starts at 9 a.m., with a threshing demonstration set for 1 p.m. There will be 18 categories for car show prizes, with two trophies in each group. Trophy presentations will take place at 3 p.m.

The pre-2000s vehicle show will feature a wide range of classic and powerful automobiles, while visitors can also take in a cash concession, homemade pies and a round of chicken poop bingo.

Chicken poop bingo has become a crowd favourite at agricultural fairs. A grid of numbered squares is laid out, and a live chicken is placed inside. Wherever the bird “does its business” determines the winner, combining humour, chance and a whole lot of fun. Winner takes home half the pot and the rest goes towards the Round Hill and District Agricultural Society.

The event is dog-free, and a rain out date has been set for September 14 in case of bad weather.

For more information, call Allen Tomaszewski at 780-672-6104.
Sta decoration photo
Decoration Day
Nadine Leming, Camrose Booster

On Decoration Day, August 17, members of the Legion Branch 57 were on hand to salute fallen soldiers who fought for our country.
 
Bonnie

Reflections

By Bonnie Hutchinson
 
School Daze?

“Back to school” is in the air.

It’s a bittersweet mix. Tinges of regret that summer is ending. Excitement and maybe some apprehension as a new school year begins. Maybe looking forward to seeing friends again. Wondering what the teachers will be like.

For many years, the rhythm of the school year was the rhythm of my life. There were of course the student years – grades one to twelve and some university years after that. During the seven years I was a public school teacher, the rhythms of the school year dominated. For a brief but intense time, I was a school board trustee – quite a different rhythm.
 
First day

Remember the first day of school?

Remember enjoying the new supplies? Wondering what the new school year would bring? “Fresh beginning” and “anything is possible” is what I remember feeling.

Flashback to my first day of Grade One. My dad took me to school – the wrong school. There was some confusion as I was shuffled to the correct school later that day. In both schools, I had never before been in a room with that many children, or a room with desks. Lots to take in.

A different memory. One generation later, First Day of Grade One for my firstborn child. Releasing him into an environment of adults and children beyond my control. How would he do there? Would he be safe? Would he make friends? Would he have fun? Noticing other parents having the same experience…

And later, with both my children, dealing with the fact that The Teacher was now often a more important adult than I was in the life of my child.
 
Before the beginning

Like everything in life, the first day is never really the first day. It’s a marker but it began earlier…

Students and parents have been gathering supplies and arranging whatever else will be needed. My now middle-aged daughter reminded me of her excitement the day her grandma took her shopping for a First Day of Grade One outfit. For young adults leaving home to go away to school, many more aspects need to be arranged.

Meanwhile, behind the scenes, others are taking care of administrative things – staffing, facilities, supplies, funds. For teachers and administrators, the official first day of school when students arrive is not the first day. I live near a school. Several weeks ago, I noticed the parking lot beginning to fill with vehicles of people preparing for the day the students arrive.
 
The millennials

On the first day of school this year, all students from grades one to twelve were born in this century. Makes me think about all that my grandparents, parents and my generation experienced in the 20th century. None of it has meaning for today’s grade school students, nor the majority of college or university students.
 
Done

One thing different about school compared to every other job I’ve ever had – you actually do finish. Whether you’re a student, a teacher or an administrator, once a year you’re done. The school year is complete. For better or worse, done well or not, you are done, done, done. It is finished.

And once a year, ready or not, you can begin with a fresh start.

There’s something therapeutic about a rhythm where you can mark endings and beginnings with a two-month break in between.
 
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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.