It’s probably safe to say that summer is the majority of people’s favourite time of year.
The days are longer, the sun is finally shining – we made it out of the infamous rainy month (knock on wood), and because of this, everyone wants to be outdoors.
These factors contribute to why it’s also my favourite time of year to be a reporter. Yes, there are many long days being behind a computer and a phone, but there are just as many days out in the community and in the sunshine taking photos, talking to residents and attending the events we write about.
And, the events are plenty and varied this summer. As we all know, July kicks off with the famous Calgary Stampede and Airdrie Pro Rodeo, which I personally know many County residents participate in, whether as volunteers, spectators or competitors. The Tsuu T’ina Nation Indian Rodeo is running from July 22 to 27 at the Redwood Fair Grounds outside Bragg Creek for those who want a month’s-worth of cowboy culture.
Also marking the warm days of summer are the various farmers markets taking place across Rocky View County, including the weekly markets held in Bearspaw, Springbank, Crossfield and Chestermere. Not only do they feature locally-grown food and homemade goods, but are also a good way for families to get out in the evenings and on the weekends to learn about the different businesses close to home.
Summer is also the season of fairs. The Beiseker Lions Country Fair and Indus Olde Thyme Days, held on June 14, kicked-off the season, but residents should schedule in the Irricana and District Summer Fair taking place July 12, followed by Langdon Days, a three-day event starting on July 18. Also taking place that weekend on the opposite side of the County is Bragg Creek Days. I look forward to the many horse-drawn wagon rides and face-painting opportunities like the ones I participated in around this time last year.
As we all remember, a devastating flood tore through the region last June, hitting Bragg Creek hard. But, as I’ve witnessed in the last few weeks the hamlet is back up on its feet. The Bragg Creek Trails Map, available for purchase at many businesses in the hamlet, is a good guide for people looking to spend an afternoon or weekend out in the sun and close to the mountains. Fun and games aside, there are many important decisions coming before council this summer that residents may want to keep their eyes on. The first is council’s pending decision on the construction of a new Municipal Office Complex in Balzac. The item is scheduled to be presented to council on July 15.
Although a date has not yet been set, council is also expecting to receive a report from administration within the coming months detailing the logistics of a County-owned utilities corporation. Aqueduct Utilities Corporation has been in the works since 2006, but has not been enacted, although it received ministerial approval in 2007. When the Implementation Strategy report comes back to council, the public will have the opportunity to give their input, as well as provide written comment to the County about whether they think the municipality should move forward with the decision or not.
We’ve all heard it said that Rocky View is a large and diverse County, and I think this brief list attests to that statement. I hope to see all you out and about participating in the diverse events and activities going on in this large county. Also, let us know what’s going on in your community so we don’t miss out. (Email [email protected]).
