Richard Froese
Spring has sprung, the grass is riz – well almost!
Spring returned March 20 – early in the morning – officially at 3:01 a.m. Mountain Daylight Time.
After very little snow in winter 2023-24, the past winter with cold weather and much snow seemed to drag on.
As the weather warms up in the coming weeks and the snow melts, people will be eager to get more active outside.
Elementary and junior/senior high school students are taking a break – spring break – the last full week on March or the first week of April.
After a lot of snow over the winter it will hopefully melt gradually enough to prevent any flooding and enough to seep deep into the ground in forested areas to help prevent wildfires and in the agricultural fields to produce healthy crops in the fall.
Now it’s time to get out and enjoy the weather and reconnect with people who you may not have seen for months.
Spring is also the season for the first major community events of the year.
It all kicks off in Falher with the SARDA Ag Research Agricultural Trade Show from March 27-29 at the Falher Regional Recreation Complex. The event promotes the agricultural industry in the local and Peace regions and provides a variety of information to producers to help sustain and grow the industry and boost the economy.
While it may be for focussed on farming, the event features plenty of displays and activities for the entire family, from young children to seniors.
Two major events occur on the last weekend of April.
First, from April 25-26, the Peace River and District Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Northern Connection Expo – formerly known as the Peace River Spring Trade Show – at the Baytex Energy Centre. The chamber changed the name to identify what the event promotes – it’s more than just trade. It is similar to the name of an event north – the Manning Regional Expo.
The 22nd annual High Prairie Gun and Sportsman Show is set for April 26-27 based at the two arenas and curling rink. Organized by the High Prairie Fish and Game Association, it’s become one of the largest gun and outdoor shows in northern Alberta. It draws hundreds of people from all over the north and generates thousands of dollars into the community.
Each of the three major events promotes local communities and Canadian products.
As local industries and businesses face hefty tariffs on many products going into the United States, announced by President Donald Trump, it’s vital that people buy Canadian.
Shop Canadian – buy Canadian – support Canadian!
Support businesses in your home community to help sustain your local community.
Spring brings new life – a time to reflect on the past and focus on the future with a fresh start with a new re-energized drive.
Over the next few weeks, the warmer weather and extended daylight will inspire people to be more active outside. Fresh air and regular physical activity are good for the health of everyone – from young children to seniors.
Take the opportunity to take time to get active and healthy in the great outdoors.
Exercise may seem stressful and difficult to start – and continue – for some people.
Life and activities can be more fun doing it with other people – rather than alone.
Many community recreation programs offer scheduled or drop-in sessions – such as walking and other physical activities.
Walking paths are popular in local communities.
Have fun – healthy fun – with family and friends!
Soon, students will be out of school and planning what to do in the summer.