It’s tough to tell people that you were born and raised in Airdrie, when most folks know we don’t have a hospital. But, ever since I can remember, I have had roots in this community.
My father moved here when I was two years old. I attended the original Edwards Elementary, Muriel Clayton and George McDougall High School. I played two seasons of soccer, a year of T-ball, a year of baseball and many years of BMX and hockey. I even won a city championship as a goalie in house league hockey way back when.
That’s my story.
Back in 2002, the Airdrie City View began sharing Airdrie’s stories. That is what a newspaper is for. Sharing the stories of a community.
Just before graduating high school, something sent me into journalism school, which quickly turned into a love for photojournalism.
In 2008, I graduated from photojournalism school and found myself with a job at a local Airdrie publication, before moving to the City View in 2009.
I am a storyteller. I love experiencing life, and getting to share my view of events. Some of the highlights in Airdrie I have had the opportunity to share with the community are the annual cross-town football games and the bi-annual Airdrie Airshow. Others were solemn events, like fires, car accidents and Remembrance Day ceremonies.
No matter the story, the City View gives me a platform to share my experiences, and after three years I have shared a ton of stories.
Some of my favourite stories over the years include a trip into the skies in a Harmon Rocket stunt plane, and throwing up into a zip-lock bag shortly after flying inverted. Air shows look pretty fantastic from the ground, but nothing can compare to being inside one of those planes. Just try and take a photo while upside-down. It’s not easy. Growing up playing hockey in the community, I have always had a soft spot for our Junior B team. Heading to the ‘Ebb’ on Friday nights is something I look forward to during the winter, and catching that excitement after goals is one of my favourite shots to get.
I love this community, and having to see the sad side of life is just a part of my job. Between knowing a fellow who lost his home in a double house fire a few years back, to the community losing a cherished member in Tim Harriman, these are the stories I get to share.
I hope you have all enjoyed, learned or even been a part of the stories myself and the City View have shared over the past few years.
I hope you continue reading for years to come.
