Hello, Diamond Valley. Well the beginning of spring wasn’t too bad, but it seemed like an extra long winter this year, and many people I spoke with were tired of it early on. Let’s hope for a nice long summer this year.
It’s Easter on April 20 this year. The Easter Bunny’s history is that he is a folkloric figure much like Santa Claus, in that he would bring colored eggs, toys, and candy in his basket for children with good behavior. According to Wilkipedia, the “Easter Hare” originated from German Lutherans and was first referred to in 1682. Our Turner Valley Legion will be hosting their annual Children’s Easter Party on either April 12 or 13. Please check their Facebook page closer to the date to find out exactly when, and then please call to reserve a spot for your kids, just so they make sure to have enough room and goodies.
The anniversary of Vimy Ridge is in April as well. The Battle of Vimy Ridge was fought April 9-14, 1917 and was the most significant battle of WW1. The long narrow ridge formed a key position linking the German Hindenburg Line, the main trench lines leading from Hill 70. The Canadian Corps task was to overtake the Ridge, after the British and French fought hard to overtake it. The Canadians gained more ground, more prisoners, and more firearms than the previous attempts. This resulted in the sweeping of the Germans from the Ridge. However, it was not done without the severe cost of 10,602 casualties of whom 3598 were killed. The event brought about an ultimate Canadian pride, honour, and respect, giving Canadians recognition as an elite military force. It is incarnate to us as Canadians to respect and remember those who fought for our freedom. Other April dates of note regarding our military is that our Royal Canadian Air Force was established in April 1924. And in April 1949 the North Atlantic Treaty, which forms the legal basis of NATO, was signed by member countries.
The Legion also is home to the Ladies Auxiliary, and this fantastic group of ladies volunteers tirelessly to raise funds for the Legion and, also, for many charities as well. They will be hosting a Spring Women’s Wellness Day on April 5 from 4-8. This event features massage, skin care, palm readings, wine tastings, fancy drinks, a menu to order from, door prizes, and a 50/50, just to name a few things. Admission is by donation, and all proceeds from the Auxiliary will go towards the Legion’s plans for an outdoor green space. Come out, bring a friend, and treat yourself to a relaxing, fun, day of pampering.
Over in the Diamond, the Griffiths Centre is hosting Rising Stars Dance. This is a community kids dance class with movement, tap, jazz, ballet, yoga, and fun. The Twinkles group is for ages 2-4 and runs Sundays 11:15-11:45, and the Sparkles group is for ages 5-8 and runs Sundays 11:50-12:20. Dance attire is encouraged. Parents must have a current membership to the Griffiths, which is only $30 a year and must stay during the class to support their children. For more information or to register your tiny dancer, please email Shauna at imarryu@telus.net.
The 9th annual Hike 4 Hospice is scheduled for Sunday, May 4. This event is to raise funds and awareness for the amazing Foothills Country Hospice. You and your friends and family can sign up for either a 2 or 5 kilometer hike or a 5 or 10 kilometer run. Sponsors are needed and welcome also for this important event. For details or to sign up, please visit countryhospice.org.
Red Deer Lake United Church has Easter Services coming up, as do many of our other local churches. RDLUC hosts Palm Sunday Service on April 13 at 10:30, and an Easter Sunday Sunrise Service at 6:15am, followed by a light breakfast. Regular Easter Sunday Worship Service is held at 10:30 that Sunday. And our favorite Alberta band, the Travelling Mabels, will be having a show at the beautiful Church on May 2, 7:30pm. Tickets will go fast for this show, visit reddeerlakeuc.com to get yours.
Our local Beneath the Arch concert series features David Francey on April 26. David is one of Canada’s outstanding poets, songwriters, and storytellers, and a 4X Juno award winner. The doors are at 7:00, with the show starting at 7:30, and they have snacks and drinks available, and a 50/50 draw in which proceeds go towards their annual Bursary. This Bursary is for young performing artists to enhance their experience and skills in a performing arts field. Applicants are for grades 4-12, and they must reside in or attend a school locally. Deadline for applicants is May 2, for full details go to beneaththearch.ca.
Another great show coming up is through the Gift of Music Concert Series in High River. Young musicians for this show feature cellist Sofia Fakely and pianist Charlotte Girardeau, who are two of Canada’s up and coming classical musicians. For tickets and info, please go to highrivergiftofmusic.com.
Lastly, Canada’s #1 Garth Brooks tribute performer, Steve Hillis, is having a show at the Black Diamond Hotel on April 26. In addition to Garth Brooks, he also performs hits by Roy Orbison, Elvis, Johnny Cash, Neil Diamond, and more. For tickets, drop by the Hotel or the Sobey’s in Okotoks, or you can etransfer at 403-612-7046. Shows sell out quickly at these events put on by Rock-a-Billy Entertainment, check out her Facebook page for this show and more that are put on around our beautiful Foothills.
Any news for May, please drop me a line at elaine.w@telus.net before April 15.
Happy Easter!
Elaine Wansleeben
