Hello, Diamond Valley. What a lovely spring it’s been so far. It’s been so nice to sit outside and listen to the birds singing and feel the sun on your face. Speaking of birds, It’s National Wildlife Week in April. In order to protect bird habitat during construction on the West End Sewage Lagoon in Black Diamond, a portion of the off -leash dog area will be closed. I have seen owls nesting in the grove of trees there, and having that part closed will be a lot better for the birds that nest there. There will be fencing and signage in place to let users know what part will be closed from March and throughout the summer.
The road to Bluerock is closed from the middle of October until the middle of May. This is to provide wildlife better access to food without vehicles driving by. National parks help protect uniquely Canadian landscapes along with ecosystems that wildlife depend on for their survival.
National Wildlife Week started in 1947 when the Canadian government proclaimed the week of April 10 as National Wildlife Week. April 10 was the birthday of the late Jack Miner, a Canadian conservationist. He was also known as Wild Goose Jack and was one of the first to determine migratory paths of North American birds and is credited with helping to save the Canada Goose from extinction. The Canadian Wildlife Federations encourages all Canadians to learn about wildlife and the environment they call home. Visit the Canadian Wildlife Federation at cwf.fcf.org to learn more about the wildlife in our beautiful Foothills.
Sheep River Library offers a fun program for 2-6 year -olds in April called Busy Bugs. Join them as they explore the busy world of bugs. The program runs Thursdays April 4, 11, 18, and 25 at 9:30 or 11:00. To register, go to sheepriverlibrary.ca or drop by our beautiful library at 129 Main Street in Turner Valley.
It’s Volunteer Appreciation Month in April and Diamond Valley FCSS is pleased to present the annual Volunteer Appreciation Event on April 18 at the Sheep River Library. Our towns depend on volunteers for many events and programs. The event runs from 5-7 pm and invites volunteers from any and all local organizations or projects. There will be a light snack, socializing, and door prizes. To find out more, go to the town’s website.
The battle of Vimy Ridge was fought April 9-14 in 1917. This is where Canadian Corps finally took the Ridge after significant attempts from the British and French during World War I. However, it was not done without severe cost of 10,602 casualties of whom 3598 were killed. It is important for us to remember those who fought for our freedoms in this recognition of Canada as an elite military force. Why not consider membership to our local Legion branch #78 in Turner Valley. It is such a nice place to have a meal, play some pool or darts, or attend one of their special events. You don’t have to be a member to go to the Legion, but for next to nothing you could become a member and make our Legion a stronger one.
Beneath the Arch Concert Series is pleased to announce their annual bursary for students in the performing arts field. This bursary is for students in grades 4-12 who are residents of Diamond Valley, Millarville, Priddis, Longview, and surrounding areas, and home-schooling students are welcome to apply also. Applications are accepted prior to April 30, to apply and to find out more, go to beneaththearch.ca. The Arch’s next show is April 27 with Leaf Rapids. They are a Winnepeg folk band, story -telling Americana with intoxicating vocals. The show starts at 7:00 and is held at the Flare and Derrick in Turner Valley.
RPAC is the Rotary Performing Arts Centre in Okotoks and they have some great shows coming up also. The Carolines perform on April 5 and are a 6 -piece band led by three singers. They put a new twist on old classic country songs and their harmony is amazing. April 18 marks Suzie Vinnick at RPAC, she is from Saskatoon and is a wonderful roots and blues singer-songwriter. Shows start at 7:00, for tickets and more info, go to okotoks.ca.
Please drop me a line if you would like to see your not-for-profit organization or event in May’s issue at elaine.w@telus.net, before the 15th of April.
Take care everyone!
Elaine Wansleeben
