Columns & News

Nordlys Film Festival a success

The 2026 Nordlys Film and Arts Festival was once again a success. From left, local artist Jim Malmberg, board member Dwayne Wohlgemuth and emcee Steve Hansen take a ride on the gondola as Dwayne introduced the film Gondola to the audience.

By Nadine Leming

With another Nordlys Film and Arts Festival in the books, the board of directors alongside committee members can be proud of a fantastic weekend. The event was host to an eclectic lineup of films and included the first ever live play.

The weekend opened with a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres supplied by local vendors prior to the opening ceremony. People came dressed for the occasion, many in suit and tie, beautiful dresses and even one guest in a fascinator for Camrose’s premier event of the year.

Mardell Olson, president of the Nordlys Film and Arts Festival, welcomed everyone to the 17th annual festival. She took a moment to thank all of the regular and first time attendees. During her opening remarks, Mardell said, “Nordlys is a volunteer-run event and we want to extend a huge thank you to our hard-working board and committee members.”

She made a special point of thanking everyone from ushers and concession volunteers to people that delivered posters and those that helped with coat check. She added, “The Bailey Theater takes such good care of us, from selling tickets to providing us with a stellar tech team, we are so thankful to them. We couldn’t do what we do without our generous community sponsors.”

The first show for audiences to enjoy was the stage play, Evie and Alfie: A Very British Love Story starring Alex Dallas and Jimmy Hogg. These talented award-winning actors portrayed a humorous look at the ups and downs of life, marriage, raising a child, a potential affair and a health scare in a way that was hilarious and relatable to everyone. At one point, Alfie compared himself to Gandhi. The show received a standing ovation from the enthusiastic crowd.

In the question and answer session after the show, Alex commented, “I think since ancient Greek times, people have worried that theater will die. I don’t think it ever will, it’s the only thing that can’t really be AI.” She went on to explain that during live theatre the audience is sharing the human experience and as long as there are people on this planet, we will tell each other stories.

The weekend included a variety of films from around the globe such as A Poet, The Ballad of Wallis Island and Gondola, all offering something unique and different to festival attendees.

Master of Ceremonies Steven Hansen kept audiences on their toes with his quick wit and sense of humour throughout the weekend, adding his wonderful take on things as the one-and-only emcee the festival has ever known could.

Folktales and Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man were documentaries filled with emotion and authenticity, both telling stories of the human experience, of personal growth while leading to personal triumphs of each of the people featured.

These stirring and emotionally impacting stories allowed many the opportunity for personal introspection and reflection.

Another unique feature of this year’s event was the display of art by artist Dale Moostoos. He created a special temporary Nordlys tattoo for anyone interested in getting one.

Hailing from Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, this talented artist’s work includes traditional Indigenous beading, and moose hair tufting. He has a strong background in painting, drawing and sculpting.

He grew up hunting and fishing, feeling connected to the land and it is that passion he is trying to pass on to his children. His work is truly remarkable.
In between films at Café Voltaire, the community was treated to the musical stylings of a wide range of local talent that included Tindall Hartman and Olson, Jim and Penny Malmberg, Stephen Olson and more.

The weekend concluded after the last film of the weekend with the announcement of the Pretty Hill Award which was awarded to the film DJ Ahmet, which was a bittersweet story of a 15-year-old boy from a remote Yuruk village in North Macedonia.

It was then time for the after party with music provided by Gus Gustopherson, who last performed at the film festival 20 years ago when it was still the Pretty Hill Film Festival.

To no one’s surprise, this event sells out every year. For anyone who was unable to attend, but would like to see films from this year as well as past years, they are encouraged to visit the Camrose Public Library to borrow them.

Wear pink to take a stand against bullying

By Adan Shaikh

February 25 marks Pink Shirt Day, a day observed each year to raise awareness about bullying and promoting kindness in schools, workplaces and communities.

This year’s theme, Sprinkle Kindness, highlights the importance of everyday actions that cultivate respect and inclusion. Everyone is encouraged to wear pink as a visible symbol of support for those affected by bullying.

“Bullying is evolving – especially online, where harm spreads quickly and can be intensified by AI and deepfakes. Yet, traditional forms of bullying like exclusion, gossip, intimidation, discrimination, and physical aggression remain very present,” shared Krista Smith, Mental Health Capacity Building program manager, Battle River School Division.

This year’s campaign will encourage simple acts of kindness, from checking in with others to speaking up when harmful behaviour occurs. Bullying can take many forms, including physical, verbal and social behaviour.

“The most powerful way to prevent bullying is through connection and kindness. When young people feel a true sense of belonging, when they feel seen, valued, and accepted – empathy and compassion are easier to access,” said Smith.

Conversations about bullying remain a key element in prevention. Pink Shirt Day is a reminder of the role everyone can play in creating safer environments.

Round Hill Ag Society hosts mental health event for rural families

By Adan Shaikh

The Round Hill Ag Society is hosting a workshop to support mental health in rural and agricultural communities on February 28. The event will include a Talk Ask Listen seminar, funded by a community grant from the Do More Ag Foundation.

Mental health in farming and rural life has become a growing concern in Canada, especially in the rural areas. Research shows that many farmers face high levels of stress, anxiety and depression compared with the general population. A national survey of more than 1,100 Canadian producers alarmingly found that about 58 per cent met the criteria for anxiety and about 35 per cent met the criteria for depression. In the same survey 76 per cent reported moderate to high stress levels. About a quarter of farmers said they had been thinking about suicide in the past year, and many feel uneasy seeking professional help because of stigma.

Alberta data mirrors these trends. More than 75 per cent of Alberta farmers report experiencing anxiety, and nearly 67 per cent report symptoms of depression. Isolation, financial uncertainty and barriers to accessing mental health care are common stressors for rural families.

The Talk Ask Listen workshop aims to give community members tools to start conversations about mental health, recognize when someone may need support and know how to respond. Organizer of the event Nicola Irving shared events like this help build connections and reduce stigma, making it easier for people in farming communities to reach out and support one another.

The workshop will take place at the Round Hill Hall, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will also be available online through Zoom. The event will include lunch and refreshments for the attendees.

For more information and to register for the event contact Nicola Irving at 780-266-6651 or visit domore.ag/events

Benefits of socializing for older adults

Back row, from left, are Joanne Olsen, Rosehaven recreation therapy director Amelia Keech, June Reimer, Carol Lehr, Dorothy Wilson and Anne Burkard. Front row, from left, are Grace Olsen, Margaret Hansen and Judy Kushnir.

By Adan Shaikh

Staying socially active can play an important role in healthy aging, yet many seniors face growing barriers to connection. Retirement, the loss of a spouse or close friends, mobility limitations and health concerns often reduce opportunities for social interaction. The automation of many services, such as grocery store check outs and banks can also contribute to less human interaction for seniors, often leading to isolation for many.

Another challenge for older adults, particularly in smaller communities, is the need to leave their home towns and communities to access higher levels of care. As health needs increase, limited availability of specialized services, assisted living spaces or long term care beds can force seniors to relocate. Such moves often separate individuals from neighbours, friends and established social networks, adding another layer of emotional strain.

Research has linked social engagement among older adults to improved mental health, stronger cognitive function and a greater sense of well being. Regular interaction can help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety while providing a sense of purpose.

In Camrose, seniors have access to many opportunities designed to encourage them to get out and about. From programs at the Camrose Seniors Centre and Older Adults Services, to events hosted throughout the community, the city has built a reputation as a senior friendly place. One avenue that is particularly popular is volunteering.

For many older adults, volunteering offers both social and personal benefits. Beyond staying busy, it provides a way to build relationships, remain engaged in community life and contribute to meaningful causes.

June Reimer moved to Camrose 15 years ago after retiring from a 38-year nursing career. She relocated to be closer to her daughter and soon became involved with several local organizations.

“I didn’t know anyone here when I moved, but soon I met neighbours and that is when I decided to volunteer with Friends of Rosehaven and I am still there 15 years later. It wasn’t long before I found myself at Habitat for Humanity,” she said.

Through Friends of Rosehaven, volunteers organize activities for residents at The Bethany Group’s Rosehaven facility. Although June no longer volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, she continued to give her time to the Bailey Theatre, the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Centre and the Blood Donor Clinic. She can often be found a various local events and volunteer opportunities throughout Camrose.

“The people I have met over the years volunteering are so heartwarming and I have made many lasting friendships,” she said, reflecting on how she regularly encounters individuals who are new to the community or are searching for ways to stay engaged.

“Almost weekly I will come across someone who has recently moved here or are looking for something to fulfill their life in retirement and I share several things that they could look into that might interest them. Reading the newspapers or Facebook all have information on what’s happening here,” she continued.

Reimer emphasized the importance of watching for signs that someone may be struggling and making an effort to reach out. She shared that if she ever notices that someone may be isolated or need a friend she checks in on them and invites them to get involved in local events.

Getting involved through volunteering, attending events or participating in community programs, often serves as a practical way for seniors to maintain social ties and a sense of purpose without any added costs. Reimer encourages those seeking connection to explore local opportunities and simply get out and meet people.

Cancer Care Massage now available

By Adan Shaikh

Daysland and surrounding communities now have access to free specialized massage therapy through a new Cancer Care Massage Program offered by the Daysland Health and Wellness Hub.

The program provides personally tailored and compassionate massage care at no cost to individuals living with cancer, cancer survivors, and caregivers or family members supporting them. The initiative is made possible through funding from the Battle River Community Foundation and is delivered through HOM of Well Being in Daysland.

Oncology massage treatments are designed to support comfort, reduce stress, and promote relaxation during and after cancer treatment. A Registered Massage Therapist creates a personalized treatment plan for each client, based on their health history, treatment stage and personal needs. The program has been designed with caregivers in mind.

In rural communities external challenges such as long travel times and weather conditions can add to the stress most caregivers already carry. With this program a gap in cancer care services will be filled to make compassionate care accessible.

“For caregivers, peace of mind matters. They are often juggling a lot, physically, emotionally, logistically, and financially. Having access to free specialized care locally can ease some of that burden and reduce the need to travel long distances for supportive services,” says Shirley Damberger, owner and therapist at HOM of Well Being.

Treatments are free for participants. Those with extended health insurance are asked to use their coverage first, with the program covering any remaining balance. The number of sessions available depends on individual treatment plans and available program funding. Participants must live within the Battle River Community Foundation’s vast service area.

Applications can be completed by visiting www.homofwellbeing.com/cancer-care-massage-program and filling out the online form, or by completing a paper application available at HOM of Well Being. HOM of Well Being is located at 5034-50 Street in Daysland. For more information, contact 780-679-5997.

Ukrainian dance with FUZE

The Culture FUZE Festival will return March 6 to 8 to celebrate the beautiful dances from Ukraine. From left, Brooklyn Pattullo, Autumn Joyce, Violet Olafson, Ivy Olafson, Malia Patullo and Floyd Olafson.

By Nadine Leming

Culture FUZE Ukrainian Dance Festival will return to Camrose, March 6 to 8 featuring 27 dance organizations from across Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Throughout the weekend audiences will enjoy powerful regional dances, dynamic storytelling, and the vitality of Ukrainian culture as dancers hit the stage. Admission access ranges from day passes to weekend passes. Each category and region has a distinct and unique style ranging from the steps performed to the costumes worn, celebrating the geographical locations and traditions of the area.

Dancers of various ages come together to perform and all benefit from the valuable insights offered by expert adjudicators. Residents are encouraged to attend this weekend that is filled with culture, community and dance.Dancers who receive top marks will be awarded medals.

The atmosphere of this event has created an exciting, entertaining, and welcoming space for dancers and community. Healthy competition is nurtured throughout the weekend promoting a beautiful display of cultural expression as it connects friends and families at the same time as supporting the local economy of Camrose and area.

Malia Pattullo, who is the voice of the festival, said, “One of my personal favourite dances is Polissian, characterized with a lot of high energy kicks and spins. It’s fun to perform with great music.”

Tanya Pattullo, event co-organizer, commented, “One of my favourites is the Hopak which is the national dance of Ukraine and is one of the most recognizable to Canadians.”

This dance is a form of victory celebration displaying solidarity and skill. Malia added, “It’s really high energy and it’s a very impactful dance.”

Part of the inspiration behind Culture FUZE was to bring the Ukrainian community to Camrose. Being centrally located, Camrose is the perfect community to host this event.

The Lougheed Performing Arts Centre (LPAC) provides the backdrop for this amazing event as audiences experience the rich atmosphere of this festival and according to Tanya, “That theatre was made for dance festivals with its huge stage and great dressing rooms.”

Camrose shines as a hub for artistic excellence and pride and connection. Tanya stated, “Camrose is so inviting and people come to shop and enjoy our restaurants. Everyone is just so welcoming, they (participants) keep coming back year after year.”

Some of the dancers started coming when they were seven years old, now almost 17, and have spent their childhood performing in the festival.
Because this event has become so popular with dancers, Malia talked about one of her favourite memories sharing, “As the announcer, I sit backstage for the whole festival. One of the girls came up to me and thanked me for my work and told me this was her favourite festival.”

She continued, “She loved coming here every year. It made my day, it even made my year, it was just the sweetest moment.”

Culture FUZE has been co-organized by the Pattullo and Joyce families. It is through their dedication and commitment to Ukrainian dance with an emphasis on building community that the festival has become what it is today.

Tanya remarked, “In honour of their relatives and the generations who helped build this cultural tradition, we also present scholarship awards that support and inspire young dancers to continue their training.”

A market will be set up in the lobby featuring local and Ukrainian vendors providing all kinds of treats and wares for purchase. To grab your passes for this event, go to www.camroselive.ca/culture-fuze-dance-competition

Children’s Choir Dessert Concert and Silent Auction

By Adan Shaikh

Camrose and Area Children’s Choir is hosting its annual fundraiser on February 28, in the Camrose United Church Hall. This year performances will be centred around the theme “Celebrate This World,” to recognize the exquisite beauty of both the cultural and natural world.

“The choirs offer an opportunity for children and youth of all abilities to learn more about using their voices for singing, understanding music, and the excitement and challenges of performing for live audiences,” said Joy-Anne Murphy, director of the choir.

She shared that songs in the concert will range from modern works to classical pieces, including works of Johannes Brahms and Sir Paul McCartney.

“Singers are going to sing in other languages as well as in English – don’t worry, translations are provided! We’ll sing about bugs and birds, water, trees and mountains, and people’s everyday lives and special moments,” said Joy-Anne.

Proceeds from the event will go towards the Camrose and Area Children’s Choir programming.

“Our choirs have had several small groups over the years. Right now we have a Junior Choir for grades 1 to 3, and Senior Choir for grades 4 to 9. I also have a small ensemble called Vivo Cantando, which is Spanish for I live to sing,” shared Joy-Anne.

Doors will open at 2:15 p.m. and the concert will begin at 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/childrens-choir-dessert-concert-and-silent-auction or with cash at the door. For more information visit Camrose and Area Children’s Choir page on Facebook.

Celebrate by giving back

By Nadine Leming

Over the Family Day weekend, Messiah Lutheran Church held a fundraiser in support of the church’s 125 years in the community and hosted a waffle breakfast at the Camrose Heritage Railway Station. The funds raised supported three projects, and people could decide which project they wanted to donate to.

The big Chad Project is the church’s international project in Africa. Chad is a country in North-Central Africa sharing its southwest border with Cameroon.

The land can be described as sun-baked and desolate; it shares the Lake Chad wetland (which used to be the size of Lake Ontario) with its neighbouring country and has been reduced to 10 per cent since the 1960s.

Fundraiser co-ordinator Erhart Pinno said, “It’s very similar to what we have seen happen here with Miquelon Lake. The big difference is that there are so many people (in Chad) dependent on (the lake) for their livelihood.”

He continued, “Across Canada, our church has decided to support the restoration project of the land around Lake Chad. We have decided to join that as part of our anniversary project (in Camrose).”

To date, almost $30,000 has been raised in support of the Lake Chad project.

The two other projects that people can support during the 125th Anniversary of the church are the upgrading of the audio/video equipment as well as boosting the youth and music program at Messiah.
Erhard commented, “We’ve got so many musicians at Messiah, it’s so beautiful, but it takes money to get them the equipment they need, but it’s all looking very positive.”

The fundraising goal for the church is $125,000 and they’ve raised about a third of that to date. The Waffle breakfast fundraiser was held to support the fundraising goal, hoping to raise between $400 to $500 during the event.

People who enjoyed waffles were treated to Erhard’s delicious family recipe, so everyone benefitted from this unique fundraiser.

Messiah Lutheran Church will be celebrating their 125th Anniversary October 9 to 11.

Litwin’s family legacy is a 1952 Dodge Fargo

The paint on Nadine Litwin’s Fargo is lead-based, which was completely eliminated from market in the late 1900s.

By Adan Shaikh

Nadine Litwin owns a 1952 Dodge Fargo that turns heads with its polished chrome and carries seven decades of family history.

“My uncle Albert purchased it brand new in 1952, he drove it for over a year then went overseas in the army. It sat at my Grandma’s farm until my dad, Francis, brought it to his mechanic shop in Kelowna, B.C. He did a full restoration on it and I purchased it in 2002 and brought it to Alberta. It is a real piece of history. All the other vehicles my dad restored went overseas into museums, but this one has stayed in the family,” shared Nadine.

Before Francis got to restoring the truck, it sat on the family farm for a long time to the point where a tree grew through its body. “The parts were impossible to find, so it sat for a while,” she added.

Under the hood, Nadine’s Fargo continues to feature its original flathead four engine that it came with and the original “three-in-the-tree” transmission. The truck also has a functional crank starter in it, something that farm trucks in the ’50s used to have as backup, in case electrical systems failed and an engine needed to start manually, especially on cold days.

When Francis moved to B.C., the truck underwent a detailed, nine years long, ground-up restoration that returned it to factory condition.

That attention to detail reflects the heritage of the Fargo name in Canada. While American buyers saw Dodge trucks bearing the Dodge badge, Canadian models were often sold under the Fargo brand through Chrysler Plymouth Fargo dealerships. In the early 1950s, Fargo pickups were popularly used as farm trucks across the Prairies, valued for durability and their straightforward mechanisms.

When Nadine’s father and uncle were kids, they would drain the oil out of the truck and put it by the fire to keep it warm.

“They are not meant for snow, but back in the day, that was the only truck they had out on the farm,” she shared.

“The hood contains a lot of lead. When my dad was 10 or 11, he had to go pick my uncle up from a dance and he hit a snow barrier and he rolled it. The hood dented in and they had to put in lead,” said Nadine.

She also still has the original manual that came with the truck when was it was purchased.

The truck features rounded fenders, clamshell hood, the classic grille, and a step-side bed. For rural families, these trucks hauled grain, lumber, livestock feed and just about anything else that needed moving. Today, as the engine roars to life, the truck brings back memories of the hard work Nadine’s father put into its restoration.

Another aspect she truly treasures about owning this vehicle is the attention it attracts. She has proudly driven the truck in the Kick’n Country Parade to show case her local business and loves cruising around the City during the summer months.

Effects of excessive screen time on children

By Adan Shaikh

It often begins in small ways. The television gets turned on so dinner can be prepared, a tablet is handed to young children to occupy them while parents answer emails, a phone is purchased so a teenager can stay in touch in case of emergencies or check in with friends. For many families, these choices are normal parts of their lives. Life is busy, and parents are balancing work, childcare, household responsibilities and their own mental health. Screens have become part of how families manage daily demands, cope with stress and find entertainment.

Previous generations spent more time outdoors, used landlines, and met friends in person. Today, screens are integrated into every aspect of daily life. Schools rely on digital devices and Chromebooks, homework is often completed online, and social connections increasingly happens through group chats and video games. Even families who try to limit screen use find it difficult to avoid, often school requirements to social expectations, make complete restriction unrealistic.

Research shows this shift might be negatively impacting children. Since the pandemic especially, doctors, teachers, and therapists are noticing more prevalent speech delays, shorter attention spans, emotional struggles, and social challenges in young children. Many preschoolers are having a harder time with basic communication, focus, and emotional regulation. Older kids and teens are showing higher levels of anxiety, trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating in school, and increased emotional overwhelm.

Statistics Canada and the Canadian Paediatric Society both report that most Canadian kids now spend more time on screens than what health guidelines approve. And the more time kids spend on screens, the more issues arise with language development, social skills, sleep, and mental health. It’s not that screens are evil, they are an incredibly useful technology. They help children learn, stay connected, stay safe, and manage busy lives. But when screens start replacing play, conversation, boredom, and outdoor time, kids miss out on things their brains and bodies truly need.

Children learn most important life skills through movement, imagination, and human connection. They learn patience by being bored, they learn emotional regulation through face to face interactions, they build resilience through frustration, problem-solving, and unstructured play.

However, cutting the technology out completely isn’t realistic, and for most families, it isn’t even possible, but finding a healthy balance can significantly reduce the risks associated with screen time.

Here are a few ways parents can try reducing screen time in their homes:

Have screen-free times in place, like meals, an hour before bedtime, or the first hour after school.
Plan outdoor time like family walks, or simple activities that don’t revolve around devices. It might mean putting phones away instead of keeping them in our hands, treating them more like old landlines that we checked when needed rather than constantly.
Practicing good screen-hygeine yourself. Children model the behaviour of their parents, one way to ensure screen time is reduced is to use less screens yourself.

In a world glowing with screens, choosing to unplug becomes an act of care, for children and parents alike.

Women’s Shelter Dance-A-Thon

Community members gathered to participate in the campaign through empowering movement in support of the Camrose Women’s Shelter. RBC community grants donated $1,500 to the Camrose Women’s Shelter. The event raised approximately $2,000.

By Adan Shaikh

The Camrose Women’s Shelter, in partnership with The b.class, hosted a Dance-A-Thon on February 15 at Martinson Health to observe One Billion Rising.

One Billion Rising is the largest international initiative aimed at eradicating violence against women and girls, encompassing both cisgender and gender-diverse individuals who face gender-based violence. The campaign began on Valentine’s Day in 2012, inspired by the distressing statistic that one in three women worldwide will encounter physical assault in their lifetime. Given the world population of seven billion at that time, this indicated that over one billion women and girls would experience violence.

In Canada, the crisis remains urgent, according to national data, about one in three women aged 15 and older has experienced some form of physical assault. Intimate partner violence continues to affect women at significantly higher rates than men, and women and children are far more likely to experience severe forms of violence.

In Alberta, thousands of women and children turn to shelters each year seeking safety from abuse. The Camrose Women’s Shelter helps nearly 400 women and children every year. Police reported data consistently shows that the majority of victims of intimate partner violence in the province are women. Behind every statistic is a person, a family and a community impacted by harm.

At the Dance-A-Thon more than 20 women came together in solidarity, to participate in the event as a call to action and a public declaration that violence against women will not be ignored. Through movement and shared space, participants honoured survivors, remembered those lost and affirmed the right of all women and gender diverse people to live free from violence. As communities continue to confront gender-based violence, events such as this serve as both remembrance and resolve.

More information about the global campaign is available at onebillionrising.org

Local artists make top three in songwriting contest

By Nadine Leming

Three local artists Travis Dolter, Jessie Bird and Myra Marshall have all made the cut as the top three song submissions for the Alberta Dreams Foundation’s 2026 song search.

The purpose of the contest is for members of Country Music Alberta to create an inspiring anthem for the non-profit which grants wishes to children suffering from severe illnesses.

These talented singer/songwriters performed their songs at the live finale on February 16 at West Edmonton Mall, with the winner receiving a professional studio recording and a spot at the 2026 Songwriters' Stage at Big Valley Jamboree and a music video.

The Alberta Dreams song search has supported 1,250 dreams over the last 40 years and with such a great cause, it deserves an unforgettable anthem.
Travis, Jessie and Myra have each created a song that captures the heart, hope and magic behind the meaningful charity. The winning song becomes the Alberta Dreams anthem for the year.

Jessie’s song “Hope Lives Here” was written with her husband Jordan and is one that definitely pulls at the heart strings with an uplifting message.

Jessie said, “I looked at their mission and vision and it made it easier to draw inspiration from that.”
She also works in the mental health field with cancer patients, so she understands the struggles these families are experiencing. She continued, “I imagine this gentle light that offers warmth and comfort to them.”

Myra wrote “Gift of Hope.” It is an uplifting and inspiring song that is beautifully written. She was inspired by the work of the Alberta Dreams Foundation and included the line that says, “believe in the magic of dreams” that is a theme of the charity.

Myra commented, “I’ve just started writing, so it was really amazing to actually have a reason to write a song with purpose.”

Travis’s song “Rise” is inspired from his time working at École Charlie Killam School in the Rise room. He said that during his time there, “Those children inspired me all the time, because they were written off by a lot of people when they shouldn’t have been and many of these children who have these illnesses are as well.”

He continued, “Being able to allow them to have the best life that they can possibly have, they’re all amazing. Rise is about bringing everyone up together.”

Each of these inspiring artists have received positive feedback from their peers and Country Music Alberta around their songs.

Travis added, “I sent Rise to the Rise room and it made Kayla Oslanski (teacher) cry, which I apologized for.”

The trio of songwriters all agreed that they are thankful for the opportunity to write for the Alberta Dreams Foundation and for everyone who voted and supported them along this journey.

Each of these talented artists performed their song on stage in front of an appreciative crowd with Jessie Bird receiving the top spot as winner.

Travis commented, “It was a great event. Chris Scheetz, Dan Davidson, Jake Latimer and Ashley Callingbull were all there to introduce us and support the Alberta Dreams Foundation.”

All three of these amazing performers can be found on social media platforms like Facebook if you’re interested in checking out their work and giving them each a follow.

BRCF supports Killam Foundation

Sharleen Chevraux, secretary of the Battle River Community Foundation board, left, presents the cheque to Terri Rombough, vice-chair of the Killam and District Health Care Foundation board.

Submitted by Laura Young

The Battle River Community Foundation awarded a $10,000 grant to the Killam and District Health Care Foundation. The grant will be used towards the purchase of a new electric stretcher for the emergency department of the Killam Health Care Centre. According to Terri Rombough, vice-chair of Killam and District Health Care Foundation board, “The new stretcher will replace an outdated, unrepairable stretcher. It will enhance patient safety and comfort, provide specialized patient care capability, and reduce staff injuries. The Killam and District Health Care Foundation is grateful for the Battle River Community Foundation’s continued support of Killam Health Care Centre and the larger community it serves.”

Attributes of an electric stretcher can include the ability of the stretcher to provide an accurate measure of a patient’s weight, without having to get them up and on a scale. Another element can be an electronic lift, so health care staff do not have to pump the bed up and down to the right height. The ability of electric stretchers to modify to a comfortable seated position again helps with not having to remove the patient from the stretcher. At the same time, alarms can help health care staff to know when a patient has left the stretcher of their own accord. Finally, electric stretchers come with a small motor that can help staff with moving various sized patients regardless of flooring or incline.

The Killam and District Health Care Foundation, as per their website, was established as a registered charity in 2004, having been created to support the work of the Killam Health Care Centre. Committed volunteers help raise funds for such initiatives as: purchasing modern, state-of-the-art equipment and technology; supporting compassionate care that enhances experience; staff education and training; and supporting programs, services, and infrastructure. The Foundation is funded by donations and also raises money through campaigns and special events.

The grant for the Killam and District Health Care Foundation is provided by the Sharon and Jack Moser Fund, the Stan and Sharleen Chevraux Fund, the Aksel Birkjar Family 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.

Since it was founded in 1995, the Battle River Community Foundation has granted over $10,469,392 to support charitable activities in the Battle River Region.

Semi-final action for the Bruins

By Nadine Leming

The Camrose Bruins finished the first round against the Westlock Warriors by putting on a dominant defensive clinic in game three defeating the opposition 5-1. The Bruins had an opportunity to shut things down in game four to move forward in the playoffs.

Westlock wasn’t going down without a fight as they led the Bruins by two late in the third in game four. The hometown boys battled back late in the third to tie the game, forcing overtime and eventually getting the win with a 5-4 final to close out the first round.

The victory wrapped up the first round in the North Central Hockey League (NCHL) for the Bruins, winning the series three games to one to advance to the semi-finals. The team showed unwavering tenacity throughout the first round, and they’ll need to continue with that mindset as they face their next challenge versus the Wetaskiwin Longhorns.
The Longhorns are a veteran-heavy squad and are the dark horse team looking to play spoiler over the Bruins in the semi-finals. This rivalry is expected to be a physical and high scoring affair in the NCHL playoffs.

These two teams faced off twice in the regular season with the Bruins winning 3-2 and 6-1. The Longhorns outshot the Bruins 50-40 in their last meeting. Spencer Welke stood on his head in net to keep Wetaskiwin from making it a game.

Special teams for the Bruins will be vital in round two. In their matchup on December 5, the Bruins went two for seven on the power play as Wetaskiwin’s “in your face” style of play often leads them to the sin bin. If Camrose can capitalize on the power play, this series could be short-lived.

Players to watch for Camrose will be Tylor Keller (#12), who leads the team in scoring in the playoffs with six points. He’s also not afraid to get into the “dirty” areas of the game. Curtis Skip (#31) is currently the hottest netminder in the league right now with a save percentage of .928.

On the other side, the Longhorns have R.J. Reed (#71) as their signature weapon and most looming threat versus the Bruins. Wetaskiwin will also need defenseman Peter Vandermeer (#42) and Dalton Reum (#88) to leverage their experience to break the speed and momentum of the Bruins.

Game one drew a large crowd of over 950 people in front of an enthusiastic crowd in what was to be a gritty game from both teams. The Longhorns took game one with the final score of 7-1.

Game two saw momentum surge on both sides with exciting action until the final buzzer seeing the opposition on top 6-4.

The next three games in the series will be hosted in Camrose with enough time for the home team to mount a comeback.

Coldest Night sponsor

Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster

Cargill donated $5,000 to The Open Doors in support of its Coldest Night Fundraiser. From left, Megan Adkins and Emmalee Mills from The Open Doors team and Kirby Gray, territory manager for Cargill. The walk will take place on February 28 at the Chuck MacLean Arts Centre. Registration will begin at 4 p.m.

Reflections

By Bonnie Hutchinson

Olympian benefits of chocolate

The Olympics are over, but I’m still thinking about them.

Watching Winter Olympic events causes mixed reactions. On one hand, it’s thrilling to see what human beings can do – the breathtaking achievements on ice and snow. It’s even more thrilling when Canadian athletes do well.

On the other hand, for those of us who lean towards klutzy, it’s intimidating. Skiers soar down mountains. Snowboarders fling themselves around. Skaters swoop, glide, and leap. Curlers make chunks of granite do what they’re told.

Not a cell in my body is ever going to do any of that. For a couch potato, it’s a mystery why fellow human beings actually want to do any of those things.
In this context, and in February – Valentine’s month and therefore chocolate month – I was happy to read an article entitled, “7 Proven Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate.” The author was Chris Gunnar, B.Sc., for a website called “Authority Nutrition.”

Gunnar says quality dark chocolate can do everything from lower blood pressure to increase brain power. The catch: it needs to be quality dark chocolate – the darker the better – with a high cocoa content. Wimpy too-sugary chocolate does not have the same health benefits. The cocoa in dark chocolate is what provides the health benefits.
Curious about dark chocolate health benefits? Here are five of them, according to the article.

Dark chocolate is nutritious – rich in fibre and minerals. The article says dark chocolate with a high cocoa content contains fibre and is loaded with minerals. They include copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, selenium and zinc. Whew! Who knew?

Dark chocolate has antioxidants. As I understand it, much of our food, especially highly processed food, contains molecules that fling off “free radicals.” These can damage our cells and cause illness. Antioxidants remove free radicals from the bloodstream. Dark chocolate has compounds that act as antioxidants. Take that, free radicals!

Dark chocolate may lower the risk of heart disease. Long-term studies appeared to show that people who ate dark chocolate several times a week were less likely to have plaque in their arteries. They were also less likely to have any other form of heart disease. The author thought this was a result of the antioxidants in dark chocolate.

I’m happy to add “Eat dark chocolate” to my list of ways to fend off heart disease.

Dark chocolate may protect your skin against the sun. Some of the compounds in dark chocolate can improve blood flow to the skin. This helps protect against sun damage. The article actually suggests – apparently with a straight face – that if you’re going on a beach holiday, you should load up on dark chocolate in the weeks and months before the beach holiday.

Not the usual advice! But I’m willing to try it.
Dark chocolate may improve brain function. The article says that a study of healthy volunteers showed that eating dark chocolate improved blood flow to the brain. Cocoa may also improve cognitive function in older people with mental impairment.
Well! I’m all about cognitive function. If dark chocolate helps, I’m in!

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I did notice heavy use of the word “may” in the article’s list of dark chocolate benefits, but I’m not going to quibble.

As I ate dark chocolate and watched the astonishing physical achievements of Olympic athletes, I didn’t feel a speck of intimidation. I was secure in the knowledge that, while I’ll never be an Olympic or any other kind of athlete, dark chocolate was benefiting my health.

Not that dark chocolate needs to have health benefits.

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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.