The Under the Lights Night Classic Soccer Tournament hosted annually by Camrose Soccer Association, is legendary amongst soccer enthusiasts from far and wide. This tournament has been highly regarded for several decades! As a case in point, this year, there will be experienced coaches and referees working the tournament who have cherished memories of being on the pitch playing in their youth in the iconic U11 to U19 event in Camrose. Under the Lights takes place June 4 to 7. With 129 teams from across the province, hotels, restaurants and retail stores will be grateful for the impact of this major draw to the community. Soccer grounds will be packed daily right through the wee hours of the morning. Aspiring and talented athletes will be ready to win and are eager to perform as a cohesive team, especially for the matches which commence after midnight.
Photo by
Jhordan Bowman
Families from Morocco and Belarus painted the
By Adan Shaikh
Families from various different cultural backgrounds gathered at the Camrose and District Centennial Museum on May 27 to take part in a community art initiative celebrating art, activity and the many cultures of Camrose.
Hosted through a collaboration between the City of Camrose Recreation and Culture department, Action for Healthy Communities, Recovery Alberta and Primary Care
Alberta, the project invited newcomer families to paint picnic tables that will be displayed around Mirror Lake throughout June as part of ParticipACTION Challenge month. Each table highlights a game from the family’s country of origin alongside artwork and symbols that reflect their culture and heritage. This year, five families participated in the initiative, transforming ordinary picnic tables into colourful displays of
with the colours from their
their
Celebrating cultures of Camrose
identity, tradition and storytelling.
Camrose has become home to families from many parts of the world, drawn to the city’s welcoming community, green spaces and family friendly atmosphere. Organizers shared that the project offers residents an opportunity to learn more about the cultures that make up the community while encouraging people to spend time outdoors and stay active.
Continued on page 10
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
tables
cultures. On left, Keltoum Mallouk with her daughter, Sirine Benmoussa. On right, back row, Elnara Toovey, left, with her mother Rita Traikovich. Front row, from left, Adam and Ethan Toovey. Both families felt proud and excited to be sharing
cultures with the community of their chosen home.
THE MISSION…
Floral Garag e CANADIAN ARTWORK
Newpencilbox Ar t Poppermost Prints
T his Stitch is Bananas
Rotary Club raises funds through Pedal Pub
By Adan Shaikh
The Rotary Club of Camrose took a fresh approach to fundraising this spring, bringing the popular Pedal Pub experience from Edmonton to Camrose for a one day event. Held May 9, the fundraiser offered participants a unique way to explore the city while supporting Rotary initiatives. Multiple sessions ran throughout the day, beginning at Boston Pizza Camrose and making stops at several local businesses, where guests were treated to special offers. The event proved to be a success, raising $5,500 through sponsorships, ticket sales and raffles. Rotary organizers said the goal was to try something different this year by creating a fundraising event that would give community members an enjoyable and memorable experience while supporting important local programs. Funds raised will support a variety of Rotary projects in Camrose, including initiatives focused on youth, literacy, health and overall community wellbeing.
second Pedal Pub will be held in
and a wait list for the event is already open. For more information or to reserve a spot, email Lou Henderson lou.henderson. rotary@gmail.com
Te re sa Kroeger, Owner
Bay Trading Co &
Trendy Walrus
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Each trip included several stops throughout the City. From left, back row, Ryan Winia, Dave Borman, Tina Klein, Candi Arrowsmith, Tracy Tucker and Michelle Forbes. From left, front row, Stacey Winia, Paul Stone, Jenn Stone, Pat Bohnet, Destiny Reay, Lisa Rohr and Ken Rohr.
Unforgettable
It’s graduation season and convocation season.
My favourite graduation events are those with a small number of graduates and a large crowd. Several years ago, in two different years, two of my granddaughters were part of graduating classes of a small number of home schoolers who had finished grade XII.
The Grade XII graduation events were special for several reasons besides the obvious one of celebrating a cherished family member.
Both evenings began with a family dinner. On average, about a dozen relatives and friends were at each grad’s table. That provided time for appropriate oohs and aahs at the grads’ gorgeous dresses and handsome suits, plus family jokes and congratulations. The dinners also provided catch-up time for family members who don’t see each other often.
The follow-up ceremonies, where families were joined by other community members, provided ample time to highlight each grad and grads’ parents.
At both of those graduations, I expected to be a little choked up when it was my granddaughter’s turn in the spotlight. In common with most grads’ relatives, I was filled with love and pride and good wishes.
At both graduations, I flashed back to the day my granddaughter was born. I marvelled how time whooshed by as she morphed into this poised young adult. What I didn’t expect was to be choked up by each other grad’s turn in the spotlight.
These grads knew they were special. They knew they were cherished.
One of guests said, “I wish all graduations could be like this.”
Unforgettable.
I’ve experienced similar feelings at small rural school graduations from junior high or high school. There too, each of a small number of grads has time in the spotlight. The local school gym or banquet hall is packed with family and community well-wishers. These grads know they are special. They know their community wishes them well.
Unforgettable.
Small graduations are so unlike the big graduations or convocations. At those, each grad gets maybe 60 seconds of recognition on the way past a handshake and certificate from some school dignitary.
***
Graduations bring out my sense of wanting to create some kind of legacy. A few times, I’ve been asked to speak at graduations. The years my two granddaughters graduated, I found myself wanting to say or give something wise. What could I say or give that would be of value to a young person on the cusp of a new phase of life?
I flashed back to all my graduations – junior high, high school, university, grad school. I realized that not only could I not remember anything that anyone said on those occasions, I didn’t even remember who had spoken. Definitely forgettable!
I realized that my desire to seem wise was more about my ego than it was about offering something of value to the grad.
***
Then I remembered something else. In my own life, from those graduation events that marked endings and beginnings, here is what I do remember. I remember who was there as my circle of support. I remember the family members and friends who had been part of the journey along the way and were there for the final ceremony. All these decades later, I still treasure those people.
That takes me to a Maya Angelou quote: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Words to live by. Unforgettable.
***
I’d love to hear from you. If you have comments about this column or suggestions for future topics, email Bonnie@BonnieHutchinson.com
I’ll happily reply within one business day.
Separatism
The separatism issue is a mess. Part of the problem stems from the disinformation separatists are getting from social media. And part of the blame goes to our premier who is doing nothing to correct the false information. People have been led to believe that if Alberta votes in a referendum to separate, then Alberta becomes independent. Not true.
At any time Alberta can ask the federal government to change the constitution to remove Alberta. However, Indigenous people would have to agree to give up their treaty rights, which they have said they won’t do. And Albertans would have to give up our rights under the Canadian constitution, which many of us won’t agree to. And if by some miracle we get to an agreement with the
federal government that overcomes all hurdles (extremely unlikely), 7 of 10 provinces making up 50 per cent of the population would have to agree to remove Alberta and the chance of that is basically zero. Alberta simply cannot separate and Danielle Smith knows that.
All this talk of separating accomplishes is to create anger, division and uncertainty and that is bad for us all. Smith should make it clear that a separate Alberta would be a poorer Alberta.
The people of Britain were told that they would be wealthier if they separated from the EU but now Britain is 12-18 per cent poorer than if they had stayed part of the EU. Economist Trevor Tombe calculated that all Albertans would be $4000/ year poorer if Alberta became independent. The major Chambers of Com-
merce are saying the talk of separating is already causing investment to turn away from Alberta. Good luck getting the private sector to fund and build a pipeline as long as there is talk of separation. Separatist leaders say we would be wealthier if we separated from Canada but that is false.
Now we will have a referendum to determine if we want another referendum. Even if we vote overwhelmingly to stay in Canada in October that is not the end of it, because Smith and the separatists are appealing the court decision that the separatist petition is unconstitutional. If, after a few years the Supreme Court rules in Smith’s favour, Elections Alberta will approve the separatists’ petition and we are into another referendum.
FREE LIBRARY
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
A new Free Little Library has now been installed by Mirror Lake. Located on the north side of the lake the library has been named as Mirror Lake Free Library and wears an illustration of the lake. The new install is located in front of the residence of Laurie Szott-Rogers, left, and Robert Dale Rogers, who are both excited to see people stopping by to find their next reads. As authors themselves, the couple values the gift of reading and access to knowledge. The library was made possible thanks to a friend of the Rogers – Dr. Terry Anderson, who has installed eight Free Little Libraries around Edmonton and decided to make and set up one for the Rogers. With this addition, there are now a total of three Free Little Libraries around Mirror Lake, one located in front of the Bill Fowler Centre, one in front of the Chuck MacLean Arts Centre and in front of the Rogers residence located at 4825-54 Street.
Rob Hill, Camrose
•
•
•
•
through the pages of e Booster
• At the 44th annual inspection of 644 Squadron of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, Reviewing Officer Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Zans, of 410 Squadron Canadian Forces Base, Cold Lake, presented the Top Overall Cadet Award to Warrant Officer Second Class Chris Batke This award is presented to the Cadet whose achievements throughout the year, or whose achievements in Cadets, exemplify what Air Cadets is all about. Captain Alex Boos, Retiring Commanding Officer of the Squadron, presented the Commanding Officer’s Choice Award to Flight Sergeant Theo Caplain. The award is reserved for Cadets who do so much for the Squadron, but whose efforts often go unnoticed. It is also given to the Cadet who is runner up for the Top Overall Cadet Award.
• Burgar Funeral Home donated its 1969 Cadillac Hearse to Camrose and District Centennial Museum. Presenting the keys to Museum President Dave Fitchie and member Er nie Bertschi were John Person, Reg Madison and Steve Haugen of Burgar Funeral Home
• The Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA), Alberta/Northwest Territories Division, received a new 2001 Chevy Venture van, thanks to the Lions’ Cavalcade, a project of Lions of Alberta. The van will help the CDA’s Community Education Coordinator for Alberta/NWT in her efforts to provide education and resources on diabetes management and prevention. Presenting the keys to CDA Community Education Coordinator Kirsten Milner were Al Harrison, of the Camrose Lions Club, and Greg Bell of Bob Bell Chevrolet Oldsmobile.
• The Camrose Merchants successfully opened their maiden season in the Wester n Major Fastball League with a convincing 8 to 3 win over the defending league champion Edmonton Monarchs. Earle Berry led the Merchants at the plate as he had three hits at five times at bat, and drove in two runs. Terry Olson had two hits and scored a run himself. A crowd of approximately three hundred attended the game.
• At the recent Annual Inspection of #644 Camrose Rotary Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets, WO2 Randy Torpe was presented with a Glider Pilot Training Scholarship by Chair man of the Civilian Committee Gordon Swanson. It was a big night for Randy, who also received the Cadet of the Year Award from the Reviewing Officer, Major Stan Froehler.
• The 32-member Choir of the Rosalind High School received Honours Standing at the Alberta Music Festival held in the Calgary Jubilee Auditorium. Adjudicator Mrs. Gladys Whitehead gave the group a mark of 83 per cent. The choir competed in the Inter mediate Class 19 years and under, competing against choirs from Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Calgary and Edmonton. Lethbridge Team Clefs received the highest mark, 89 per cent.
STCA Class of 2026 Valedictorian speech
Submitted by Maya Matthiessen
“Gutter people” is a term my mother has liked to use over the years. It means people who will stick with you when life is in the gutters, and everything seems to be going downhill.
There’s a truth about life, that pain and grief are inevitable. You cannot run nor hide from things that you can’t control, and life is the most unpredictable thing known to man. You will fail, and you will hurt, and you will wonder why you do the things you do. The gutter people will remind you why. Because people, in all their faults and inadequacies, are the centre of each of our worlds, whether we realize it or not.
The buildings, societies, cultures, and families around us are all because of people. We strive for connection and love in whatever form that may take. We are strong alone, but we are much stronger together. In this, I want you to think of the people you brought here with you today.
I want you to remember the times they have sacrificed for you, and celebrated with you, and even the times they have hurt you. And I want you to thank them for it, because every scar and bruise is a part of who we are today. Because the gutter people, whomever they may be for you, act out of love. They hurt because they
are scared, because your relationship to them is so deeply sacred and important.
Parents, I know today must be a very emotional day for you. I can’t imagine how proud of each of your children you must be, and I can’t imagine the fear you must feel at them growing up and going away. I want you to give yourself a pat on the back, and some credit, for the sacrifices you made to get your children here.
As the young adults we are, even if sometimes we don’t say it, we are thankful to you and we see you. Allow yourself to feel the fear, because fear is just a product of love, and be proud of the strong young people you have raised.
Grads, you must be so excited to finally be on this day, and maybe a bit scared too. You’ve made it so far, and I cannot wait to see what each and every one of you do.
If I can offer one piece of advice to you, it’s to find your people. If you have a gutter person, hold onto them tight because they are rare. If you don’t, they will find you when you’re ready for them, you just have to keep holding on until then.
So congratulations, the cliché that it is, high school is not easy and each of you have learned a lot, and most of it probably wasn’t about chemistry or social, sorry Mr. Stang.
Despite all you’ve
Café-style High Quality Martinis
Cold, refreshing drinks always on chill in our coolers ESPRESSO MARTINI Get ready for summer!
learned, none of us truly know who we are yet. Go out into the world and figure it out, and throughout all the hardships, joys, grief and celebrations, find
the people who bring you joy and meaning. Find the people who listen, and don’t judge, but are brave enough to tell you when you’ve done something wrong. Find the
people who make your life better, because no amount of money, success or things will make you feel fulfilled. That is something that only people can do.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Maya Matthiessen was valedictorian of the Saint Carlo Acutis Catholic High School for the Class of 2026.
ÉCKS band program on a mission
By Nadine Leming The ÉCKS Music
Parents Association shared a heartfelt message at the École Charlie Killam School (ÉCKS) year-end concert. Many of the instruments in the band program have been in use since 1988 when Bob Bailey started as the music director at ÉCKS.
With many instruments no longer fiscally sound to repair, the ÉCKS music program has created The Legacy Project. This project will help cover the cost to replace items for the band room which is a very expensive endeavour. Flutes, clarinets and trumpets cost about $619, trombones cost about $729 and an alto sax costs about $1,349.
can do one better. We will match donations up to $10,000.”
Hawkins mentioned, “The Camrose Energy Community Connections Program gives 10 per cent of profits to community organizations. It is thanks to our customers who make this possible.”
Hawkins explained that this project fits with Camrose Energy Community Connections Program because of the community that Bailey has built through the band program and has taught students who became parents (and maybe a couple of grandparents) over his career. She spoke to his dedication and passion to the students, the band program, and to music in general. Bailey commented, “It’s a combination of my love of teaching with my love of music.” Hawkins took a moment to respond, “Thank you Bob for all you’ve done to build community within the music community in Camrose.”
DEEP DISCOUNTS STOREWIDE
Bailey said, “We can have between 150 to 170 grade 6 students a year. Band is a mandatory program giving these students an opportunity to participate.” His goal is to phase in about 80 new instruments. Bailey estimates the project to cost approximately $40,000.
Bailey reached out to Denise Hawkins owner of Camrose Energy for a donation towards the fundraising of this project.
Denise replied, “We
Currently there is a Go Fund Me page set up with donations well over $5,000 as of press time. To donate scan the QR code in the ad, or go to gofund.me/00c1530ca
A standing ovation season at the LPAC
By Nadine Leming
The Lougheed Performing Arts Centre (LPAC) is once again hosting their season launch event on June 11 at 7 p.m.
This is a free event to the community and will include a live performance from one of the upcoming shows this season. The launch will also include door prizes throughout the evening, on top of the announcement of this season’s fantastic line-up.
If audiences were impressed with past seasons at the LPAC, they are not going to be disappointed with the upcoming performances. There will be a few local favourites returning and many more that Nick Beach, LPAC general manager, will be announcing.
One of the biggest shows to hit the stage in Camrose has already been announced with Tom Morello bringing his One Man Revolution to town on March 3, 2027. The summer series line-up has also been announced with Diyet and the Love Soldiers on July 28 and Lloyd Spiegel on August 13. The BrassTactics will bring their party band vibes to the Verda McNeil Plaza on
August 7 and will give a sneak peak of their show at the season launch.
This season launch will remind the community and the region, just how much the arts scene is thriving, dynamic and alive in Camrose. Single tickets for shows won’t go on sale until the following week, but packages of three, five and seven shows will be available that evening.
One of the most popular series this upcoming season will be the Cabaret Series, with tickets expected to move fast. There isn’t anything quite like the intimate setting in the Mayer Hall that gets the audience up close to the artists for a wonderful evening of entertainment.
This will be an outstanding season that will unveil an extraordinary level of talent that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats with jaw-dropping performances and may even demand the occasional standing ovation.
For more information or tickets to upcoming shows at the LPAC go to www.camroselive.ca for your guarantee of the hottest tickets in town.
Canadian Waters
By Arnold Malone
Anyone who has stacked a load of bales on a hot dusty day will know how wonderful water can be. Not only is it a special drink, it favours us in so many other ways. We need water to make ice. Without ice, there wouldn’t be any hockey. Without hockey, Canadians would have little to talk about. We need water for swimming and swimming is fun. Even dogs know the pleasure of a good swim, so much so that they enjoy sharing their wetness.
Long ago, homesteaders searched for good soil along with an easy access to water. The reason was obvious, there is no life without water. Water is so essential for drinking/digestion, sanitization, food production, industrial use and temperature regulation. Water supports all life. Without water, nothing survives.
So, once again, we Canadians are lucky. Here we are with less than .01 per cent of the world’s population and 20 per cent of the world’s fresh water.
Germany has nine major rivers. France has 780 and England has 1,500. Canada, however, has a whopping 8,500. We have a lot of rivers.
Now, when it comes to lakes, all other countries should be envious. Canada has more lakes than the total of all of the other countries. We Canadians have 62 per cent of all of the lakes in the world. Canada has between two and three million lakes.
Russia, a country that spans 11 time zones and stretches more than halfway around the globe, has only 200,000 lakes.
We have so much water in Canada that it makes up more than seven per cent of our total area.
The war in Iran has made us aware that many middle-eastern countries desalinate ocean water. While this does provide potable water, there is the worrisome concern: what does a country do with all of that salt?
It is one thing to have lots of water and quite another to have water in locations where it is easy to obtain while being affordable. In the United States, many of the major rivers – especially those that were once glacial fed – are no longer a reliable source for water.
The country with the worst record for water consumption is Turkmenistan, which consumes 128,228 cubic feet per person per year because of an inefficient Soviet-era irrigation system. Canadians uses only 32,772 cubic feet per year – about one per cent for personal consumption and the rest for industrial and agricultural use.
The 20th Century was one where many economies were driven by oil. It is likely that the 21st Century will be one where most nations will be desperate to source fresh water. There is about the same amount of water today as there was 40 million years ago. Most of that would be ocean water. However, water tables are dropping around the world and some large world cities are now required to import water.
A full 66 per cent of the world’s population suffers from a water shortage. In many situations, nearby clean water does not exist. In parts of the world, people walk for miles with a jug on their head to retrieve a bit of water. That jug contains the water for a family for a day.
We Canadians can be thankful and should feel especially lucky that we have such a bounty of water. Water is the essence of life and it is ours in abundance. In Canada, we need to be grateful stewards of our lucky advantage. Other places look at Canada with envy. Water is a prime resource for us to protect. For most of us, clean water – both hot and cold – feels promised and is just a twist of a tap away.
1st Annual Summer Consignment Auction
Jaywalk your way to the
So much is happening at the Bailey
We hope you get a chance to visit us!
FRIDAY, JUNE 5
Our street booth opens at 10 a.m. You will find information about upcoming event s, and you could buy a 50/50 ticket. There will be two 50/50 ra le draws – one on Friday evening and a second one on Sunday afternoon. It could be your lucky day!
If you would like to see the inside of our fascinating theatre, there will be guided tours from 10 a.m. to noon.
New this year is something we’re calling Blues and Brews. From 1 to 4 p.m., you can sit in our air conditioned auditorium and watch high def inition videos on our big screen that highlight the upcoming Camrose Blues Festival and feature music and images from the 2025 first Blues Festival. Come on down, ha small shot of the blues while enjoying some brews and our theatre popcorn.
A couple of character actors w por traying the Blues Brothers on the street Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. You can have your picture taken with them if you like or just enjoy their antic s.
The highlight of the day will be a concer t by The Flying Crawdads These boys will rock the house with their dynamite brand of classic blues tunes. Best of all, this concer t is a Pay What You Feel event! All of your donations will be gratefully received. There’s just one request – we would like you to reser ve your tickets online at bailey theatre.com so that we ha an indication of how many people will be attending this show. The concer star ts at 8 p.m. Tickets will also be available at the door
SATURDAY, JUNE 6
Our booth opens again at 10 a.m.
If you’re in the mood for a tour of our venerable theatre, they will be available from 10 a.m. to noon.
Saturday night w ill see Van Hellion take the stage. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show star ts at 8. This Van Halen tribute band is sure to rock your world. Tickets are available online at bailey theatre.com, or at the door for those of you who arrive just before show time
SUNDAY, JUNE 7
Our booth will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more details about upcoming Bailey Theatre events or to purchase tickets, visit BAILEY THE ATRE.COM 780-672-5510 DOWNTOWN CAMROSE
PURPLE MARTIN FESTIVAL
SATURDAY, JUNE 13
• Every thing you need to know about suitable locations for purple mar tins and attracting them including a site tour by car convoy to Pleasure Island
• Track, Cams and Cats – a presentation by Gerald Romanchuk , avid wildlife photographer and prominent member of Edmonton Nature Club. Gerald will enter tain you with stories about the curious nature and fascinating behaviour of Alber ta’s cougars.
Kids’ Activities
• The Science of Wild Communication by Tyne Baker, senior wildlife biologist and animal communication specialist Tyne will tell you what she believes birds and animals are “saying.”
Continued from page 2
Throughout June, residents will be encouraged to visit the tables during walks around Mirror Lake and participate in a photo scavenger hunt. Participants can stop at each table, learn about the featured culture, play the game on the table and share a photo, with an explanation on what they feel they learned about the culture. These photos will be entered into a contest.
The tables will also be featured during Canada Day celebrations at the museum, where participating families will share more about their traditional games and cultural backgrounds. The
winner of the scavenger hunt will also be announced during the event. The initiative is part of the national ParticipACTION Challenge, which encourages communities across Canada to make physical activity a part of everyday life and promote healthier, more active lifestyles.
More information about the scavenger hunt will be shared in an upcoming issue of The Camrose Booster. The tables are expected to be set up around the lake by June 3. Overall, this initiative creates a healthy and welcoming community for all Camrosians.
Celebrate artists of Camrose
By Adan Shaikh
Camrose artists will once again be celebrated at the end of the summer, and nominations are still open for the annual 2026 Creator Award through the City of Camrose Arts Council Mayor’s Arts Awards.
The annual awards shine a spotlight on the people who help shape the city’s creative spirit, recognizing both artistic achievement and the individuals who champion the arts behind the scenes.
“You don’t have to be an artist to nominate an artist, anyone can submit a nomination,” explained Kyra Thompson, member of the Mayor’s Arts Awards Committee. Thompson shared that the committee always enjoys hearing as much as possible from nominators.
“We don’t want you to just give us a name, we want to hear why you feel that artist deserves the award, what is it that you love about their art. We ask that you be as thorough as possible,” she added.
The committee is made up of members from various artistic sectors, including literature, visual arts, theatre, dance and music.
“You can nominate someone who paints or writes or acts or sings. We are welcoming nominations from any discipline,” said Thompson, highlighting how the main goal of the awards is to showcase how active and thriving the Camrose arts scene is.
“This is important because it helps us to show the City of Camrose how vibrant our arts community is. The stronger these nominations, the more proof we have that this city is a vibrant arts community,” added Thompson.
Presented each year, the Creator Award honours an individual or group that creates, performs or practices art. The recipient receives a cash prize and certificate of recognition. Community members are invited to nominate themselves or someone whose creativity and dedication have left a lasting impression on Camrose’s arts community.
Last year, the award was presented to Lisa Rootsaert, who has spent more than 25 years inspiring dancers and audiences alike through her work with the Camrose
St. Andrew ’s Anglican Church invites you to…
Penteco
All-age crafts, the story of Pentecost and a barbecue for the whole family
Friday, June 5
4:30-6:30 pm
St. Andrew ’s Church Hall
4713-50 Street, Camrose
Kick off Jaywalkers’ with family fun and a barbecue!
For more information, visit standrewscamrose.ca
June 12 – 7 p.m.
Academy of Dance. As artistic director and senior instructor, Rootsaert is known for choreography that blends technical skill with expressive storytelling across a range of dance styles including ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical and contemporary.
The Mayor’s Arts Awards program also recognizes those whose support helps the arts community thrive. The Arts Champion Award celebrates an individual, group or business that has made meaningful contributions through leadership, advocacy, volunteerism or encouragement of the arts.
Unlike the Creator Award, the Arts Champion Award is selected directly
by the Mayor’s Arts Awards Committee.
Last year’s Arts Champion Award was presented to Audrey Pfannmuller, longtime owner of Candler Art Gallery and a familiar figure in Camrose’s arts community for decades.
“We also celebrate all the nominees, we invite every nominee to the event, so even if you’re not getting the award, you are being honoured at the biggest arts award in Camrose,” said Thompson.
Nominations for the Creator Award will be accepted until June 30. To nominate an artist, fill out the form at www. camrose.ca by searching Mayor’s Arts Award.
STCA CLASS OF 2026
First class to graduate from the new school
May 30, Saint Carlo Acutis
High School said farewell to its first class of graduates at the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Centre. Teachers
and Josh Stang welcomed the students and congratulated them on their wonderful achievements. The teachers were both teary eyed, as they shared how proud they were of the students and what an experience it was watching them learn and grow.
Karla
and
shared a tribute to families. They shared how their achievements are a reflection of all the hard work the families have put into supporting them through their school years and how having that support has instilled the graduates with hope, strength and confidence for their futures.
Irish Bacwed wore a beautiful red gown. Most students will be going right to university in the fall, after a well deserved summer.
On
Catholic
Kassidy Throndson
On May 29, the graduates and their families gathered at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, where Principal Bob Charchun and Assistant Principal Jaymie Reinhart, presented graduation certificates to the students. From left, Reinhart, graduate Dawson Aucoin and Charchun.
Graduates
Boyles, left,
Ainsley Campbell
Each graduating student carried a rose with them and student Nate Ashton struck a pose for the cameras as he made his way onto the stage as master of ceremonies along with classmate Nolan Wilcox.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
TEMPOR ARY SEASONAL TR AFFIC COUNTERS
Are yo u look in g for a summer jo b where yo u will work with a grea t te am an d lear n some valuable skills?
Join ou r te am at th e Ci ty of Camros e where yo u ca n contribute to helpin g Camros e grow as a dynami c communit y with an exceptiona l qualit y of life Th e
Infrastructu re depa rt ment – Engineerin g sectio n is seek in g ha rd workin g individual s as Tr af fi c Counters to coun t traf fi c around th e Ci ty in a temporar y seasonal role
FU NCTIONS/DUTI ES (but no t limite d to):
• Coun t traf fi c th ro ughout Camros e using electronic or manual counting method s.
• Submit counting repo rt s, pape rwor k an d feedback to th e Municipa l Engineer
QUALIFICAT IONS :
• Re liable with a st ro ng work ethic.
• Ab ilit y to follow instructions an d work both independentl y an d in a team enviro nment.
• Ba si c computer skills
• Must have a vali d Clas s 5 Driver ’s Licence an d a ccess to personal ve hicle each day.
HOUR S OF WO RK : Hour s of work are generall y 11:0 0 a.m. to 6: 00 p.m. Monday th ro ug h Fr iday in th e months of July an d Augu st 2026 Some shif t work will be necessar y to addres s operationa l requirements
HOUR LY WAGE : Th e hourly wage for this temporar y positio n will be base d on $16. 27 pe r hour
A PPLICAT IONS : If this positio n sounds li ke a fi t for yo u, please submit a cove r le tter an d resumé to th e addres s below by June 12, 2026 , at 4:30 p.m. If applying by email, please ensu re positio n title is included in th e subjec t line Po sition s will be fi lled as suit able applicants are found.
We appreciate and consider all applications ; however, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacte d.
CONTAC T:
Ci ty of Camros e
At tent ion: Municipa l Engineer
Mailing Ad dress: 52 04 -50 Avenue , Camrose, AB T4V 0S 8
P: 78 0.672.4426 | F: 78 0.672. 24 69
E: hr@cam ro se.c a | W: www.c am ro se.c a
INFORMATION GOVERNANCE AND PRIVACY ADVISOR
An excellen t oppo rt unit y ex ists for a highly motivate d an d de ta il-oriented In fo rmatio n
Gove rnance an d Pr iv acy Ad vi so r to join ou r dynami c an d commit ted te am . Re po rt in g to th e Genera l Manage r of Corporate Se rv ices , this role is responsibl e for th e deve lopmen t, implemen ta tion , an d administration of th e Ci ty ’s in fo rmatio n gove rnance, reco rd s management , a ccess to in fo rmation, an d privacy programs
This positio n se rves as th e Ci ty ’s subjec t ma tter ex pe rt an d Depu ty Pr iv acy Of fi ce r, suppor ting corporate compliance with th e Access to In fo rmatio n Ac t (ATIA), Protection of Priv acy Ac t (POPA), municipal by laws , an d record s management best practices. Th e Ad vi so r prov ides stra tegic leadership an d operationa l guidance to suppor t accoun ta bili ty, transparency, an d th e ef fe ctive management of in fo rmatio n ac ro ss th e organiza tion
FU NCTIONS:
• Lead th e deve lopmen t, implemen ta tion an d ongoing improvemen t of th e Ci ty ’s corporate record s an d in fo rmatio n management progra m.
• Ensure record s classi fi cation systems, retent io n schedules, an d dispositio n processe s are current, complian t, an d consistently applie d ac ro ss depa rt ment s.
• Ad minister an d continuously improve th e Ci ty ’s Pr iv acy Management Program, includin g maintaining an d enhancing it s framewor k, policies , procedures, tools, an d suppor ting document atio n to ensu re compliance with AT IA an d PO PA
• Manage th e end-to-end processing of access to in fo rmatio n requests in accordance with legislative requirements an d timelines.
• Coordinate an d administer Pr iv acy Impact Assessment s (PIA s) an d inve stigat e an d re spon d to privacy breaches , complaints, an d incidents, includin g documentin g fi ndings an d recommending corrective actions.
• Prov id e ex pe rt advice an d guidance to depa rt ments, leadership an d stakeholders on privacy an d in fo rmatio n gove rnance ma tter
• Deve lo p, maintain, an d deli ve r policies , procedures, an d corporate training programs
• Monito r compliance , track pe rformanc e metrics, an d recommen d improvements
• Ac t as Depu ty Pr iv acy Of fi ce r an d suppor t regulato ry revi ews, inve stigations an d audits
QUALIFICAT IONS :
• Po st-secondary educatio n in Public Administration In fo rmatio n Management Librar y or Archival Studies, Lega l Ad ministration or a rela ted fi eld.
• Minimu m th ree (3) ye ar s of progress ivel y responsibl e ex perience in record s management , a ccess to in fo rmation, or privacy in a public sector enviro nment.
• Ex perience workin g with a ccess to in fo rmatio n legislatio n an d privacy compliance is required
• Preference will be gi ve n to an individual with record s management ex perience in municipal gove rnment or ot he r gove rnment organiza tions.
• Thorough kn ow ledge of th e Access to In fo rmatio n Ac t an d Protection of Pr iv acy Ac t an d re la ted re gulations.
• Kn ow ledge of record s an d in fo rmatio n management principles an d practices.
• St ro ng anal yt ic al , research , an d problem-solvin g skills
• Excellen t writ ten an d ve rbal communicatio n skills , with th e abilit y to convey complex legislative requirements clearl y.
• Ab ilit y to manage sensit ive an d conf idential in fo rmatio n with a high degree of discretion.
• St ro ng organiza tional an d time management skills , with th e abilit y to manage competin g priorities an d meet legislated deadline s.
• Ex perience with Electronic Document an d Record s Management System s (EDRMS).
• Prof iciency in Microsof t Of fi ce an d document redactio n tool s.
HOUR S OF WO RK : Hour s of work are ty picall y 8: 00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday th ro ug h Fr iday
SA LA RY & BENE FI TS : Th e Ci ty of Camros e ha s a progress ive sala ry an d bene fi t package. Th e star ting sala ry for this positio n will be es ta blishe d base d on qualif ic ations an d ex perience of th e successfu l candidate.
A PPLICAT IONS : Individual s inte re sted in this positio n are invite d to submit a cove r le tter an d resumé to th e addres s below by June 19, 2026 , at 4:30 p.m. If applying by email, please ensu re job positio n is included in subjec t line We appreciate and consider all applications ; however, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacte d.
CONTAC T:
Ci ty of Camrose, At tent ion: Genera l Manage r, Corporate Se rv ices
Mailing Ad dress: 52 04 -50 Avenue Camrose, AB T4V 0S 8
P: 78 0.672.4426 | F: 78 0.672. 24 69 | E: hr@cam ro se.c a | W: www.c am ro se.c a
OPER ATOR 1 – ROADS
Th e Ci ty of Camros e is seek in g an energetic an d re liable individual to fi ll th e permanen t positio n of Operator 1 in th e Ro ad s sectio n of th e Public Wo rk s depa rt ment This is a unionize d positio n unde r CUPE Lo ca l 1425 an d is inclusive of a probationa ry period as pe r th e Ar ti cl e 11.02 of th e Collecti ve Agre emen t.
FU NCTIONS/RE SPONSIBILITI ES (but no t limite d to):
• Pe rfor m basic manual labour using hand s or common labour tools, complex hand held an d af fi xe d powe r tool s an d machines , light main te nanc e to equipmen t an d ve hicles
• Skille d equipmen t operatio n of tool cat, skid stee r, ta r ke tt le an d hot box machines
• Pe rfor m main te nanc e to equipmen t, tool s an d at ta chment s.
• Ab ilit y to se t- up an d work within a traf fi c zone
• Wo rk in al l re la ted area s of th e Ro ad s operations , wh ic h includes bu t not limite d to: snow removal, ro ad main te nance, traf fi c cont ro l, equipmen t main te nance.
• Sa fe ly operate an d maintain equipmen t such as single / ta ndem axle trucks , skid stee r an d tool ca t wh ic h may includ e at ta chment s such as fron t- en d loader, selfpropelled ro ad packers, smal l self-p ro pelled machines such as sweepers and/or snowplow equipmen t, equipmen t trailers , spray pa tc h, ta rrin g an d a hot box, etc.
• Ot he r re la ted duties as assigned QUALIFICAT IONS :
• High School Diplom a or GED/CA EC equivalent
• Ex perience an d educationa l background with variou s aspect s of Road s operations are considered an asse t (i .e . ro adwa y main te nance, equipmen t operations an d genera l main te nance, etc.).
• Ba si c computer skills
• St ro ng writ ten an d ve rbal communicatio n skills with th e abilit y to communicat e with th e public an d contractor s in a profes sional manner
• Re liable with a st ro ng work ethi c an d th e abilit y to work independentl y or in a team se tt ing.
• Must be able to meet th e Ci ty ’s “o n-call protocols” and will be required to pa rt icipate in th e on-cal l rota tion within th e Ro ad s te am
• Ab ilit y to exer t moderate physical activi ty an d work outsid e in al l ty pe s of weathe r an d enviro nmental conditions ye ar round.
• Va li d Clas s 3 Al be rt a Motor Ve hicle Operator ’s Licence with ai r brake endorsement.
HOUR S OF WO RK : Hour s of work are generall y 8: 00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. , Monday th ro ug h Fr iday Shif t work , on-cal l an d over time will also be necessar y to addres s operationa l re quirements
HOUR LY WAGE : $ 30.11 pe r hour in accordance with th e CUPE 1425 Collecti ve Agre emen t.
A PPLICAT IONS : Individual s inte re sted in this positio n are invite d to submit a cove r le tter an d resumé to th e addres s below by June 5, 2026 , at 4:30 p.m. If applying by email, please ensu re positio n title is included in subjec t line We a ppreciate an d consider al l applications ; howeve r, only candidates selected fo r inte rv iews will be cont acted.
CONTAC T: Ci ty of Camros e – At tent ion: Manage r of Road s Address: 4202-51 Avenue Camrose, AB T4V 0S 8 P: 78 0.672.5513 | E: hr@cam ro se.c a | W: www.c am ro se.c a
By Adan Shaikh
Conrad Vachon owns a 1990 Chevrolet Silverado half-ton pickup truck, a vehicle that continues to attract attention with its vintage style and unique character.
Originally purchased for his granddaughter, the truck ended up staying with Vachon after she decided it was not the right fit for her. Rather than sell it, he decided to keep the pickup for himself and has enjoyed owning it ever since.
One of the things Vachon appreciates most about the truck is that it remains mostly original. He has not made any major changes or restorations since purchasing it, choosing instead to preserve the truck exactly as he found it.
The 1990 Chevrolet Silverado was part of the well-known C and K truck series, a generation that became famous for its durability and square body design.
During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Chevrolet trucks earned their place as a workhorse and farm truck, but the Silverado trim package was considered one of the more premium options at the time, because it offered upgraded interior finishes, chrome accents and more comfort features than its comparable models.
The truck is equipped with a powerful V8 engine, and an automatic transmission. Known for their sturdy steel frames and dependable performance, these trucks were built to handle Alberta winters, hauling jobs and long highway drives.
Enthusiasts often refer to these models as “square
body” trucks because of their sharp lines and classic design.
What makes Vachon’s Silverado especially memorable, however, is the artwork painted across the hood. A previous owner decorated the top of the truck with a detailed beach sunset scene, transforming the classic pickup into something completely unique. The colourful painting of the tropical landscape, stands out against the truck’s rugged exterior and gives it a personality all its own.
The mural immediately catches people’s atten-
Conrad Vachon’s 1990 Silverado has a unique look
UNIQUE LOOK
tion and often becomes the first thing they notice when they see the vehicle. While many classic trucks are admired for polished chrome or custom engines, Vachon’s pickup stands out because of its artistic touch.
Vachon shared that he avoids taking the truck out too often because for him its more about the look and he doesn’t want to get any chips in it, but it still does well on the highway and could be driven as a daily driver if needed.
FUN FACTS
According to collector websites, for long road trips, buyers could equip their 1990 Silverado trucks with an optional oversized 34-gallon fuel tank, which provided a staggering highway range of over 700 miles.
General Motors sent development trucks out into the field to record how customers actually used their payload, and intentionally overloaded them during testing to ensure the frame and axles would never snap under pressure.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Conrad Vachon’s Silverado has a beautiful beach sunset painted on the hood and the back.
Derek easily sailed through his second year of formal schooling at NAIT, in the automotive technician field.
As brother and father, we’re thrilled with his commitment and achievement in his second career journey (he started adult life as a brick layer)
We hope you will join us in recognizing his impressive midpoint of training and think of our family team to keep you motoring in comfort and worry free
Beats for Mental Health celebrates five years of community
By Adan Shaikh Beats for Mental Health
is returning to Camrose for its fifth year.
Organized by Emma Berger, Beats for Mental Health began as a response to the isolation many people experienced during Covid. Five years later, the annual gathering has become a community event focused on connection, creativity and support.
Emma shared that she started the event when she began noticing that many people who are struggling with mental health challenges did not know where to find local resources or opportunities to connect with others. She shared that as someone who loves being around people she felt the disconnection that occurred during the pandemic. She felt she needed to do something that created a space where everyone in the community could gather and find the support they needed, or even just join to enjoy a stressfree, fun-filled day.
“I think we lost sight of connection with our community,” she said. “We all stay in our houses and we are glued to our phones. I want to encourage people to be together and be outside.”
According to Statistics Canada, more than 13 per cent of Canadians aged 15 and older report always or
often feeling lonely, with frequent loneliness closely linked to poorer mental health outcomes. Berger said those realities became especially visible during the pandemic.
“Being away from my people was extremely difficult, not being able to gather with others. I love to be around people,” said Emma. “I also thought it would be fun to do and just get everyone back together again.”
What started as a small gathering has grown into an annual community event where residents gather to enjoy music, food, arts and crafts and learn about mental health supports available in the area. Emma said she has also noticed many teenagers attending the event over the years and believes it offers an important safe space for youth.
“These are the kids that fall through the cracks, the kids that don’t have anywhere to go at night and hang out,” she said. “Those are the kids that are just going to do something stupid because they had nothing better to do.”
The fifth annual Beats for Mental Health will take place on June 13, 6 to 9:30 p.m. This year’s event will take place at the Stoney Creek Centre and will include activities both indoors and outdoors.
“I think the outdoors are so important, people can come take their shoes off, get in the grass. I have rented all the outdoor games from the Library, like the parachute, so the games will be set up outside,” she shared. Inside the Centre, attendees will
find snacks, crafts and information about community resources.
The event is open to all ages and to all community members. This year’s event will also feature an open mic instead of scheduled entertainment, giving community members
a chance to share their own music, poetry or creative work. Additionally, a friend of Emma’s will be joining to share her journey of healing with the guests, in hopes to inspire healing and strength in those who may be struggling.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Last year, the event was held indoors at the Camrose Regional Exhibition. Craft tables were set up to be enjoyed by attendees. Pictured abover are locals Shelby Bianic, left, and Angela Penn who enjoyed painting rocks and making collages.
Grant Applications Open Deadline: June
15, 2026
Battle River Community Foundation Now Accepting 2026 Grant Applications
Last year, we launched our online granting portal, Grant Lifecycle Manager (GLM), to streamline the application process. All applications must now be submitted online through this user-friendly system, available on our website. Paper applications are no longer accepted.
Please also note our new application deadline: Monday, June 15, 2026. We encourage applicants to start early and get familiar with the new portal.
Grants are available to organizations in east-central Alberta that are qualified donees recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency, including registered charities and municipalities. Non-charities may apply in partnership with a qualified donee.
Eligible organizations must show strong volunteer leadership, sound financial practices, and effective management. Preference is given to projects that create significant impact with modest investment, operate for a defined time period, and fill gaps not covered by other funding.
Field of Interest Funds support projects in areas such as: Animal Welfare • Arts
• Brain Injury Prevention • Education • Health and Wellness • Humanities • Literacy
• Music • Nutrition • Outdoor Education • Palliative Care • Environment • History
• Family Violence Prevention • Special Needs • Sustainable Agriculture • Youth Athletics
• Youth Programs.
Geographic-specific funds also support projects serving residents of: Alliance, Armena, Camrose, Flagstaff County, Forestburg, Galahad, Hardisty, Hay Lakes, Hughenden, Irma, Killam, Lougheed, Merna, Rosalind, Sedgewick, Strome, Viking, and Wetaskiwin.
Application deadline: Monday, June 15, 2026. Apply now through our new online portal at brcf.ca/grants-scholarships/how-to-apply/
Grants will be announced no later than November For further information, please contact us Web: www.brcf ca | Email: admin@brcf ca | Phone: 780-679-0449
The Joni Bergstrom Endowment Fund Scholarship
$2,000 to be Awarded Application Deadline: Monday, June 15, 2026
To be eligible, applicants must:
Be enrolled full-time in an accredited nursing program in Canada. Be from Central Alberta with preference to students from the City or Camrose County
Considerations:
Strong preference to an applicant entering their second, third or fourth year of studies.
An online application for m is available on the Battle River Community Foundation website, www.brcf.ca by clicking on the Grants & Scholarships page. Contact the Battle River Community Foundation in person at 4906-46 Street, Camrose, by email at ed@brcf.ca or by telephone at 780-679-0449.
Vision pledge to Stollery
Submitted Vision Credit Union is proud to announce a renewed five-year commitment to the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation, pledging $40,000 per year for five years, for a total donation of $200,000. In 2025, Vision completed a five-year pledge of $30,000 per year, contributing a total of $150,000 to help the hospital provide specialized pediatric care for children and families across Alberta.
Continued on page 22
The Rudy and Flora Baker Scholarship in Medicine
Up to $2,700 to be Awarded Application Deadline:
Monday, June 15, 2026
To be eligible, applicants must:
Be enrolled in a Canadian Faculty of Medicine seeking an MD designation.
Have graduated from Grade 12 at a high school located in the area served by the Battle River Community Foundation.
Considerations:
Strong preference to an applicant entering their first year of studies.
Preference to an applicant with community service experience.
Preference to an applicant considering a career in rural medicine.
An online application for m is available on the Battle River Community Foundation website, www.brcf.ca by clicking on the Grants & Scholarships page. Contact the Battle River Community Foundation in person at 4906-46 Street, Camrose, by email at ed@brcf.ca or by telephone at 780-679-0449.
The Donna and Fred Vanouck Nursing Education Fund
Up to $2,100 to be Awarded Application Deadline: Monday, June 15, 2026
To be eligible, applicants must:
Be enrolled full-time in an accredited nursing education program in Canada. Have graduated from a public or catholic high school in Camrose County, Flagstaff County, Beaver County or any city, town or village physically located within those County boundaries.
Considerations:
The student may be in any year of a Licensed Practical Nurse program, a Registered Nurse program whether or not it is a Bachelors degree in Nursing, a Registered Psychiatric Nursing program, or an advanced degree in Nursing.
An online application for m is available on the Battle River Community Foundation website, www.brcf.ca by clicking on the Grants & Scholarships page. Contact the Battle River Community Foundation in person at 4906-46 Street, Camrose, by email at ed@brcf.ca or by telephone at 780-679-0449.
Submitted
From left, Connie McMann and Suzanne Thomas from Vision Credit Union; Rachel Bokenfohr from Stollery Children’s Foundation; Dan Hautzinger, CEO of Vision Credit Union; Bryan Fiebich, Charlene McFarlane and Bruce Weinkauf from Vision Credit Union.
Linda Marie Vandenberg
December 27, 1945 ~ May 28, 2026
Linda Marie Vandenberg of Camrose, Alberta, passed away on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at the age of 80 years.
Left to cherish her memory are her children Joanne (Wayne) Rolston, Gerry (Dianne) Vandenberg, Greig Vandenberg (Jennifer Strickland), Jason (Melissa) Vandenberg and Caren (Doug) Lindstrom; daughter-in-law Lynette Irvine; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; siblings Eileen (Jacques) DeBoer and Rita (Bill) Webster; sisters-in-law Aline Wenig, Joyce Wenig and Corinne Wenig; and special friend Darrol Christenson.
Linda was predeceased by her parents Joseph and Esther Wenig; son Darryl Vandenberg; brothers Alois Wenig, Lorenz Wenig, Conrad Wenig, Rupert Wenig and Elwood Wenig; and sister-in-law Jean Wenig.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the Stoney Creek Centre, 5320-39 Avenue.
If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Linda’s memory may be made to St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary or to the Cross Cancer Institute.
To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com
Phone 780-672-2121
“Dedicated service since 1906”
Available for publication in The Camrose Booster. Ask for our 24-page booklet of poetry. Words of comfort to remember someone special. 4925-48 Street, Camrose Phone 780-672-3142 Email ads@camrosebooster.com
Why
Funeral ceremonies can make a signi cant difference in how families channel their grief towards health and healing. During the funeral, the community comes together and responds to the reality that someone has died, and also to the reality that those remaining will need support, compassion, love, hope and understanding.
Our dedicated and experienced staff are here to help you in planning and carrying out a meaningful funeral that is unique to your families needs and values. Our funeral directors are intimately familiar with the funeral planning process, and key decisions a grieving family must make during this dif cult time.
Come join us for the urn burial for Lenore Magnusson at 2:00 p.m., on June 7, 2026, Hegre Lutheran Church. Coffee and light lunch to follow at Gladstone Curling Rink.
Elizabeth “Betty” Kozdrowski (née Weder) of Camrose, passed away on May 26, at 86 years of age.
Linda Marie Vandenberg of Camrose, passed away on May 28, at 80 years of age.
Chester William Orr of Camrose, formerly of Rosalind, passed away on May 28, at 93 years of age.
Dennis Eldon Sandstrom of Camrose, formerly of Ryley, passed away on May 29, at 87 years of age.
Hay Lakes Multi 4-H Club Achievement Day
By Adan Shaikh
Members of the Hay Lakes Multi 4-H Club gathered at the Hay Lakes Agriplex on May 23 to celebrate another successful year during the club’s annual Achievement Day.
The event highlighted the work and dedication of members involved in a variety of projects throughout the year, including leadership, outdoors, foods, crafts, painting and beef.
Beef club members spent part of the day washing, grooming and preparing their animals for a cattle show that gave them valuable practice time ahead of the Camrose Interclub 4-H Show and Sale, scheduled for June 1 and 2 at the Bashaw Ag Grounds.
Club president Emily Hurd welcomed the members and supporters. Hurd is in the Fine Arts (crafts) club and shared how she
learned various new and interesting crafts through out the year, including making coasters with resin, doing mosaics and printing on candles. Hurd is in her fifth year in 4-H and has been president for four. She plans on staying president and is looking forward to doing more crafts next year.
All members took turns sharing presentations, showcasing what they learned during the year through their respective programs. Participants answered questions about their projects, reflected on their experiences and discussed goals they hope to pursue in the future.
Certificates of achievement were presented by Camrose district key leader Tanya Reist, recognizing the accomplishments of members over the past year.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
The Club members have learned leadership, outdoor, crafts, food and public speaking over the last year. Back row, from left, Denver Lauinger, Emily Hurd, Madison Hansen, ShanaLee Fank hanel, Robbie Russell and Izabella Kelland. Front row, from left, Maverick Chu, Liam Hansen, Noah Hurd, Lindy Novotny, Daxton Rathwell and Brooks Lauinger.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster 4-H Cleavers, Maverick Chu, left, and Liam Hansen were busy looking after their calves Mr. Oreo and Alexa.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster
Senior member Izabella Kelland shared what she learned in leadership and fine arts (crafts) projects. Izabella has been a 4-H member for 13 years with the first three years as a Cleaver. She was previously part of the Rosalind 4-H Club.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Noah Hurd, right, is a junior member, who is in the Foods and Outdoor projects. Noah learned how to make fire starters, took a trip to a zoo and learned how to make Rice Krispies squares and lasagna. Tanya Reist, left, presented the certificate of achievement to Noah.
Adan Shaikh, Camrose Booster Daxton Rathwell displayed what he learned in the outdoors project. He shared the birdhouse and the first aid kit he put together. He participated in the 4-H Camrose District Public Speaking competition and got third place.
Helpful Tips for Writing Classified Ads Which Get Results!
Be Thorough
Sure you want your ad to stand out from the rest, but don’t skimp on the sort of information that sells. The item’s condition, size, age, brand name, and colour are some of the basics readers want to know. Without them, your ad may be overlooked.
Steer Clear of Abbreviations
Okay, so you want to include all the important basics. Don’t use strange abbreviations because our ads are designed to spell all the important details. Besides, you are not paying by the line, but by the word, so there is really no need to abbreviate.
Be Honest
Exaggerating your item’s finer points may bring in a lot of responses, but a buyer who’s misled won’t appreciate it and will take his business somewhere else.
State Your Price
The cost of an item is one of the most important concerns of want ad readers. Ads showing prices are ones which get results. Giving a price also serves to “weed out” those buyers not in your price range.
Be Accessible
Including a telephone number or address puts you in touch with potential buyers. Be sure to state the hours you can be reached: a caller who can’t get through the first time often won’t call again. Don’t hesitate to call us with any questions or problems you may have regarding advertising. Our professionally trained sales staff know the ropes, and would be happy to pass their know-how on to you. That’s why we’re here to help you get the results you deserve.
June 6 ~ 1:00-3:00 pm Stoney Creek Centre (Ski Hill) ~ 5320-39 Avenue
NO GIFTS PLEASE
LADIES AUXILIARY
BURSARIES – The Ladies Auxiliary of Branch #57 Camrose Legion is, once again, offering bursaries to graduates of the City of Camrose and Camrose County High Schools who are going on to further education. Application forms for several categories of bursaries are available at the Camrose Legion. For further information, please contact Linda Stevenson 780-672-1963 or Agnes Minnes 780-672-4302. Bursary packages available at Legion: L.A. Local, Branch Local, Poppy Fund. Deadline is August 31, 2026.
ADD
PERSONAL
LOST THAT LOVING FEELING? Find it with a personal ad in The Camrose Booster classifieds. Ph. 780-672-3142.
TO GIVE AWAY
KITTENS – 8 weeks old. Grey tabby. Call or text 780-7811748.
SERVICES
SELF-INKING STAMPS –
Every shape, size, and colour. We deliver, right to your office. Camrose Booster Ltd., 4925-48 St., Camrose. Call us at 780-672-3142.
McTAVISH DELIVERIES (2023) LTD.
Local and long distance moving Storage Insured and bonded Where your business is appreciated 780- 672-5242, Camrose
DSS CONSTRUCTION
Don’t put off those projects any longer! Give me a call and we can plan together. Devin Meakins, Ph. 780-853-1080
THE SHIRT OFF MY BACK
TAILORING in Camrose
Tues. - Fri., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thurs. Evening and Sat.: By Appointment
Closed: Sun., Mon. and Holidays Please call 780- 672-4793
LaCRIA TRUCKING
Potable Water Hauling
Residential, Commercial, Oilfield Gerald and Marla Steinwand, Owners PHONE 780-679-9134
FLAGSTAFF SMALL
ENGINE, LAWN & GARDEN EQUIPMENT
Parts – Service – Repair
• Free pickup and delivery within 50 km radius
• Residential snow removal starting at $300 monthly
• Haul away unwanted junk 780-281-1956 Strome, Camrose & area
FOR RENT
FOR RENT ADS
NOW UPLOADED TO The Camrose Booster Website DAILY!
SUITES AT SPARLING
MANOR – a non-smoking building for people with disabilities. A 2-bedroom suite and a bachelor suite will be available in the near future. If interested please contact Jackie for more information at 780-678-9307.
ROOMS FOR RENT in the Scotney and Jacqueline character homes. Both are 2.5 blocks from university in Camrose. Clean, quiet and bright. Rent is $495 - $600 monthly plus DD and includes WiFi, utilities, recycle pick-up, yard care and snow removal. Partially furnished w/ shared laundry. (Some rooms are fully furnished for international students.) This is an affordable, quality accommodation that fills quickly. (Some rooms still available.) No partiers, smokers or pets allowed. Reduced rate over the summer for students. Please call Dave P., 780678-6163.
MAIN STREET RETAIL
SPACE – located in high traffic, southerly area of Main Street, Camrose. Generous 1,664 sq. ft. of prime space at 4868-50 Street. Nicely decorated, air conditioned. $2263.04/mo., triple net. Clean, dry storage space in basement also available. Available immediately. Call Blain or Don at 780-672-3142, the fairest, most reasonable people in the business.
WELCOME TO TAMA-
RACK PLACE – A great place to call home! We have a wonderful 2 bedroom apartment available. Rent includes stove, fridge, dishwasher, washer and dryer. Heat, water, Telus Optic TV and internet and one parking stall included. Small pet may be considered. This is a no smoking building. Beautiful social room and patio with an active senior group. Rent is $1,600/month. Call 780-233-0224.
ESPECIALLY NICE MAIN FLOOR OFFICE SUITE
Generous 794 sq. ft. suite, suitable for three or more staff. Includes two private offices. Ground floor, easily accessible. Modern building in downtown Camrose. Bright, quiet, air conditioned. $1263.78/mo., plus share of operating expenses. Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, 780-672-3142 days, two of the fairest, most reasonable fellows in the business.
PRIME DOWNTOWN
SPACE – 4917-50 Street. Second floor with reception area, lunch room and two private rooms. Elevator. $900/mo. includes utilities. 780-679-5085.
LUXURY 1- AND 2-BEDROOM SUITES IN CAMROSE – Enjoy 24-hour monitored security, two elevators and an advanced intercom system. Each suite has six appliances, a private patio or balcony, one parking stall and window coverings. Residents enjoy a free year of TELUS TV, phone, and internet services. All units have highend modern finishes, ensuring a luxurious and stylish living experience. Quartz countertops and first class amenities await you! Two-bedroom suites have two bathrooms and a walk in closet! A community garden, dog park, bike storage in shared green space and a fitness centre are available to all tenants. Your visitors will love our guest suite. This is a 100% no smoking building and small pets may be considered. Now available. Check us out at paradoxcamrose.com, call or text 780-281-2366.
COMMERCIAL SHOP
AND OFFICE SPACE – 523446 Street. 1,138 sq. ft. $1,075 plus utilities. Ample lot space, parking, recent renos, automatic overhead door. Call or text Scott to view! 780-781-7037.
TWO-BEDROOM SUITE
– spacious and bright. Centrally located, clean, quiet, nonsmoking building, no pets. Not suitable for small children. In keeping with our existing tenant profile, we are inviting inquiries from mature, responsible adults. 12 month lease. Phone 780-6797090.
GENEROUS SECOND
FLOOR OFFICE – Main Street, Camrose. 340 sq. ft. former CFCW Studio A, almost totally sound proof. Quiet/considerate neighbours. $482.23 monthly includes all utilities, property taxes and insurance. Available June 1. Call Blain Fowler or Don Hutchinson, two of the fairest, most reasonable fellows in the business. 780-6723142.
HOUSEHOLD
KENMORE FRIDGE –$250; Kenmore stove, self-clean, coil burners - $150. Both in good working order. For more info call or text 780-678-9371.
LIVESTOCK
BULLS FOR SALE – Registered Red and Black Angus. Call 780-986-9088.
YEARLING BULLS –Heifer approved Red and Black Angus. Polled Hereford yearling bulls. Ken Prichard 780-6086080.
MACHINERY
SWATHER NO LONGER ‘CUTTING THE MUSTARD?’ Call The Camrose Booster Classifieds, 780-672-3142. FLEXICOIL HARROW DRAWBAR – 70 ft. Reasonable offers. 780-385-8297.
MISCELLANEOUS
DOWNSIZING?
I buy RECORD/CD collections for my Camrose store. House calls available –I’ll do the lifting! Call Cullen at 780-781-9665
WOOD WORKERS – Timber for sale! Old barn boards, inside and outside boards. Some planed, some not. All 1” thick. Also, elm boards, sawn. Call 780-679-0106 for sizes, etc.
GARAGE SALES
1007 TAYLOR STREET, OHATON – June 5 and June 6, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tools, wooden toys, misc. Everything must go!
AUTO
DADS – LOOKING FOR A CAR WITHOUT A BACK SEAT? Count on our classifieds. We match up buyers and sellers. Phone the Camrose Booster, 780-672-3142.
BOATS, RVS and TRAILERS
SELLING YOUR SEAWORTHY BOAT? Make a splash with an ad in the Booster classifieds! 780-672-3142.
LOVE CAMPING, BUT TIRED OF SHOVELLING SNOW OFF THE AWNING IN MAY? Say goodbye to your Gulfstream! Move it fast with a Camrose Booster classified. 780672-3142.
EXPERIENCED LEGAL ASSISTANT
Olson Rau + Mohr Law O ce is seeking a dedicated Legal Assistant with 5-10 years of prior experience for their Camrose o ce. Must be proficient in real estate transactions, with preference to a candidate experienced in other areas including: wills, estates and corporate law. We o er competitive pay and we prioritize a collaborative and friendly work environment. Please email your resumé to: jmohr@olsonrau.ca
Vision pledge for pediatric care
Continued from page 18
For many families in rural Alberta, advanced children’s health care is not available close to home. Based in Edmonton, the Stollery Children’s Hospital provides emergency and critical care, complex surgeries, outpatient care, mental health support and other highly specialized services for children from across central and northern Alberta.
Vision’s renewed support comes at a time when the Stollery is expanding the reach of pediatric care through virtual health. The Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation is
raising funds toward a dedicated Stollery Centre for Virtual Health, which will help connect patients, families and Stollery medical teams through secure telemedicine platforms. The initiative is designed to support realtime consultations, timely assessments, treatment planning and ongoing care management, reducing the need for lengthy travel and added financial costs for rural families. The Centre will also offer training and educational resources for local healthcare providers, helping strengthen pediatric care
capacity in rural communities. Nearly 30 per cent of Stollery patients live outside Edmonton, many travelling hundreds of kilometres for care. The Stollery Centre for Virtual Health will help to reduce travel, stress and costs by bringing Stollery specialists closer to families –sometimes right into local hospitals or family homes.
This new $200,000 pledge reflects Vision’s ongoing commitment to community wellbeing and to support charitable causes that make life measurably better for rural Albertans.
Missed Delivery Policy
If you do not receive your copy of The Booster or pre-printed inserts, please report this to us by calling 780-672-3142. We will promptly re-deliver these to city households. Note that we do not have access to certain apartment buildings. In these cases, we ask you to contact your apartment manager to request delivery Rural readers are asked to report missed deliveries and we will consult with your postmaster to ensure future deliveries.
Thank you for being a loyal reader of…
BRCF supports arts in Daysland
Submitted by Laura Young
The Battle River Community Foundation awarded a $2,000 grant to the Daysland and District Cultural Arts Society (DaysArts).
DaysArts is involved in a number of ventures, including the preservation of Daysland’s Palace Theatre as a working movie theatre. Along with a concession booth, the theatre boasts 232 seats, and offers most movies three times. The funds granted to DaysArts by the Battle River Community Foundation will go towards a new projector for the theatre, helping to secure its operation now and into the future.
Daysland’s Palace Theatre was erected in 1952 and served as a movie theatre not only for the Daysland community but surrounding areas as well. While it outlasted theatres in many surrounding small towns, it ceased to be a functioning movie house in 1996 with the retirement of the Tury family. The theatre did fall into a state of some disrepair, but is unique among rural theatres in that it came back to life. A group of committed citizens banded together to get the town to purchase the theatre and, in 1999, created DaysArts as the non-profit society that would run the operations. In 2001 a stage was added and in 2013 funds were raised for a new digital projector and audio system. 2014/15 saw the installation of
new floors and seats with funds raised by DaysArts.
Another DaysArts cultural initiative is its Concert Series, which takes place at the Palace Theatre as well. Once a month, from November through April, DaysArts brings in different entertainers to help bolster Daysland’s cultural offerings. These concerts are always diverse and of high quality, with performers from Alberta, Canada, and even from abroad. Ticket takings from events like this, along with those of the movie theatre, the proceeds of the concession, and other fundraising initiatives by DaysArts help to ensure that Daysland’s cultural landscape remains vibrant.
The Palace Theatre truly is a community venue. Along with showing movies and serving as the stage for the Concert Series, the theatre also hosts the Kamotion Dance Studio. Kamotion is a non-
By Adan Shaikh
competitive dance studio where children can learn the basics of dance in a fun-filled atmosphere and where adults can participate in dance-inspired fitness classes.
The grant for DaysArts is funded by the Leo and Jean Vos 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.
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.
Comfort and convenience come together in this bright third-floor end unit at Grand Trunk Landing. Ideally situated next to Mirror Lake Centre and just steps from the Mirror Lake trails, the home offers quick access to downtown shopping, restaurants and amenities.
Inside, the open concept layout offers 1,164 square feet of space. The natural light from the large windows creates a welcoming atmosphere throughout the spacious living and dining area. A gas fireplace adds warmth and character, making the space ideal for relaxing evenings and entertaining guests. The kitchen is thoughtfully designed with ample cabinetry, a raised eating counter and a generous pantry for additional storage.
The master bedroom is spacious and comfortable, featuring a walk-in closet, pri-
You know you're getting old when…
• You put food in the microwave and enter your PIN number
• To see the nor thern lights, all you have to do is stand up too fast. ( This also works with a total eclipse.)
• You say " thingy " for everything because you can't remember the real name anymore.
• A brand new kitchen sponge brings you significantly more joy than getting invited to yet another 50th Anniversar y par ty
• Someone park s in front of your house for more than an hour and it bugs the heck out of you
• You go to an antique car show and it reminds you of your high school parking lot
• You go for a cruise in your car not to be cool, but because the seat warmers help your lower back
• "I've fallen and I can' t get up" isn' t so funny anymore.
• It takes you longer to get over a good time than to have it.
• There's nobody left in your circle but top notch weirdos and, honestly, the company is so good!
• In your mind, you're still 24, but your back is 55, your knee is 76 and your left hip turns 80 nex t week
• You pluck a single chin hair at 9 a.m. and it's back with all its friends by 4 p.m
• You see an old person and then you realize you went to high school with them.
• You notice all your laugh lines in the mirror and wonder to yourself what on earth could have been that funny.
• It feels like the morning after, but there was no night before.
• Conversations with friends are dominated by medical conditions.
• Instead of sleeping in the same position for hours , you have to rotate like a rotisserie chicken every 20 minutes or your hip hur ts.
• The threshold to buy yourself a treat for no reason has gotten much lower.
• You can fall asleep sitting up in a chair at a public function without being judged.
• It 's now considered rude to pull out a bottle of ibuprofen if you don' t have enough for ever yone
• You barely do anything all day, but you still need to have an afternoon nap.
• Your back goes ou t more than you do.
• You fall down and wonder what else you can do while you're down there.
• You now appreciate a good handrail
• You can unknowingly spend 10 minutes chasing an eye floater with a fly swatter
• One body par t right after another say s, "Ha ha, you think that's bad. Well, watch this!"
vate en suite, cozy reading nook and access to its own balcony. A second bedroom and full bathroom provide flexibility for guests or additional living space. The in-suite laundry room is both practical and well maintained, complete with a sink and generous counter area.
Outside includes two private balconies and the large main balcony is equipped with a barbecue gas line. Residents will also appreciate the heated underground parking, car wash and vacuum station, along with a dedicated enclosed storage unit.
Immaculately cared for and ready for immediate possession, this turnkey condo offers low maintenance living in a prime Camrose location. Located at 308, 5419-49 Avenue, this home is listed for $349,000 For more information or to arrange a private viewing, contact Al:
Al Mohamed Central Agencies Realty 4870-51 Street, Camrose 780-672-4495 or Al: 587-322-5511
• Your life has become a delicate balance of trying to stay awake and trying to fall asleep.
• It 's not the way you look that reveals your age, it 's your use of complete sentences when you tex t.
• You still have a lot going for you – your eyes are going, your knees are going, your back is going
• A pull-through parking spot gives you more joy than it should
• Your body is like an all-you-can-eat bu et: what should be hot is cold, what should be firm is flabby and the buns are the biggest thing on the menu.
• You use the phrase " the other day " and it refers to something that happened 27 years ago.
• The faster the number of things you're willing to wait in line for approaches zero.
• You have a favourite pharmacy
• "It's too cold" is a valid excuse to not leave your house. (So is "It 's too hot.")
• You're jealous of people who can get up withou t making grunting noises and holding on for dear life to the furniture.
• Old age is always 15 years older than you are.
Blain Fowler, Camrose Booster
Neil Lunty, treasurer of the Battle River Community Foundation Board, left, presents the cheque to Sharon Eshpeter, chairperson of DaysArts.
