ChestermereFREE COMMUNITY GUIDE - TRUE SYNERGY - Chestermere, AB
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Chestermere
FREE
COMMUNITY GUIDE
SUMMER 2021
TRUE SYNERGY
TAKES A COMMUNITY
BUILDING A BEE FRIENDLY CITY
SUMMER RECREATION
IN CHESTERMERE
Mayor’s Message
Ah, summer.
After months of quarantines, cases and COVID looming over our lives, we anticipate that this
summer will be the best one yet.
At the time we have printed this guide, we still don’t know exactly what Summer 2021 will look like,
but we do anticipate some wonderful new opportunities in our community.
To start with, take a look at some of our amazing parks, neighbourhoods and amenities
recommended in the summer recreation map on page 10.
Mayor Marshall Chalmers Then, we invite you to learn more about how you and your family can work together to protect
City of Chestermere Canada’s pollinators this summer by building a bee hotel as described on page 16.
In addition, we invite you to continue to learn more about Synergy in our ‘faces behind our
organizations’ series on page 6.
And although fall is still some time away, I’d like to invite all our community groups to participate in
future editions of this guide by submitting your programs and initiatives for the autumn publication.
For now though, I leave you with a wish for summer that comes from a song performed by one of
my favourite singers, Willie Nelson:
I never saw the sun shinin' so bright
Never saw things goin' so right…
Blue days, all of them gone
Nothin' but blue skies from now on
Wishing you all a safe and blue-sky summer!
Sincerely,
Marshall Chalmers
Mayor
COVID-19 NOTE: While we have made every effort to ensure that the content of this
publication is up to date, regulations change frequently. Please check our website for the
latest updates about programs, events and activities.
City of Chestermere - City Hall Eco Centre Community Safety
105 Marina Road 281107 Township Road 243 153 East Chestermere Drive
Chestermere, AB T1X 1V7
(403) 207-2807 (403) 272-9878
(403) 207-7050
utilities@chestermere.ca enforcement@chestermere.ca
info@chestermere.ca
firehall@chestermere.ca
Follow along with us:
If you have feedback about this Community Guide email comms@chestermere.ca.
2
In this issue
PAGE 5
Love, the Lake and a
Legacy
PAGE 16
Building a Bee
Friendly City
PAGE 6
True Synergy Takes a
Community
PAGE 10
Discover Chestermere's
Neighbourhoods
Community Social Programs Page 4 Parent & Caregiver Support Services Page 18
Recent Council Decisions Page 8 Celebrating our Diverse Events Page 20
Municipal Election Information Page 9 Community Recreation Page 21
What's New at the Library Page 13 Boating Safety Page 22
Major News Page 14 Community Contacts & Resources Page 23
3
Community
Social Programs
Seniors Outreach: How can I help? Upcoming Event! Mental Health Resources
International Day of Older Persons
Seniors are able to access the resources they The City of Chestermere offers a webpage with
need when they need it. Friday, October 1, 2021
mental health resources from a variety of sources
The International Day of Older Persons is an to increase awareness of mental health needs and
Seniors who require assistance with accessing opportunity to highlight the important contributions local supports available.
supports, services, or advice can connect with City that older people make to society and to raise
staff over the phone or by appointment in awareness of the issues and challenges of ageing Visit chestermere.ca/mentalhealth for
the community. in today’s world. more information.
Please contact smatthewman@chestermere.ca, or More information to follow on this event. Here's a listing of the Mental Health Days that will
call Sharron at (403) 804-0817. be featured throughout the year.
Seniors Teleconference Program
A virtual program offered via audio (telephone) or
video (WebEx). Join us and stay connected and
engaged with your community on topics of interest
relevant to seniors.
Share concerns, experiences and stories. This is a
great place to meet new people from the comfort of
Parent & Caregiver Support Services your own home with no costs to the participant.
Parent & Caregiver Support Services (PCSS) Offered every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the
offers free quality, community-based parenting month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Please contact
support, programs, and services in Chestermere. smatthewman@chestermere.ca, or call Sharron at
(403) 804-0817 to register.
Provincially funded through the Government
of Alberta's Family Resource Network (FRN) * Please note there are no teleconferences in
program, our specific focus is to support parents July and August, they will resume
and caregivers with children 0-13 years of age. Thursday, September 9.
FAMILY & COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTRE
The Family & Community Resource Centre is a free and confidential service for all Chestermere and South East Rocky View individuals and families.
For information or to register for any of these programs, contact the Resource Centre: crcinfo@chestermere.ca
Chestermere Gifts of Kindness Community Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
The Gifts of Kindness Fund provides short term Need a hand preparing your tax return? Volunteers can help you prepare your
financial support to help meet basic needs. income tax and benefit return if you have low income and a simple
tax situation.
Money Management Workshops To book an appointment, contact the Community Resource Staff at
Money Management workshops are available in a self-paced format, and (403) 207-7079 or email: crcinfo@chestermere.ca.
we can provide one-on-one support as required. Sessions include money
management strategies, how to create a budget, ways to build your savings,
and ways to pay down your debt to rebuild your credit. Support, Outreach, and Advocacy
Our Family & Community Resource Centre
Community Access Program staff are available to provide access to
The Community Access Program (CAP) provides residents of Chestermere resources through information, referrals, and
and South East Rocky View access to affordable local resources. This support with government applications.
includes transportation and recreational subsidies (for programs such as
Jumpstart, Kidsport), Good Food Box vouchers, and much more!
4
Resident John Timmermans stands next to
Chestermere's newly donated accessible kayak slip.
Love,
THE LAKE AND A Legacy
A family's donation to the City of Chestermere signifies a life-long commitment to staying
active, sharing the joy of water sports with the community, and true love.
A Chestermere senior and his family are hoping that a donation of a new spent their golden years keeping active while exploring Chestermere Lake.
accessible kayak slip will make it easier for everyone to enjoy water activities
safely on Chestermere Lake - no matter their age. As Donna's dementia progressed, John would take her out multiple times
a day to keep her engaged, as she'd forgotten the day's earlier
The generous donation was made possible by 87-year-old trips. But John didn't mind. He loved to be out on the cool water,
resident John Timmermans so John could share his love in the sunshine, with his bride.
of kayaking with the community and honour his late
wife's memory. Since her passing, he paddles on almost every day and
keeps her memory alive. He pulls on his red life jacket
The new slip is designed to hold a kayak, (complete with safety whistle) and rolls his matching
paddleboard or canoe stable in the water so the red kayak from his apartment at the Bay Club to
user can climb in and out safely. While secured Chestermere's waterfront, ready for his daily float
to the dock, boaters can use the sturdy handles around the lake. Without this new slip, continuing on
to situate themselves before taking off. The slip is this heartfelt tradition would be difficult for John.
more manageable than climbing in off the shore or
while in the water. "As he's getting older, dad is having more difficulty
getting into and out of his kayak, so I thought the
Being in a kayak keeps John active, and more launch might be a way of helping him," says Laura
importantly, it reconnects him to a time when he'd Timmermans, John's daughter. "Dad can be a good
take Donna, his wife of 54 years, on long paddles example, and he can show others how it's done safely.
around the lake. We hope this new launch encourages others of all ages to
join him".
After retiring, John and his wife Donna moved in with their
daughter and son-in-law, Laura Timmermans and Ian Warrack, who Laura passionately advocates for her father and his well-being, adding
lived on the lake. While looking for options to keep them active and busy, she that "if I can get as many people out with him as I can, I am comforted to know
suggested they try kayaking. there are more people who know about him and can watch out for him."
John immediately fell in love with the sport, but his wife wanted nothing to do Now that the newly donated accessible kayak slip is installed and ready for
with it. Since John didn't know how to swim, Donna would instead sit on the use, John can confidently float on, unassisted.
shore of their lakefront home for hours, keeping an eye on him and waiting for
him to return safely. Lake users can find the slip on the north side of the floating dock at John
Peake Park. Anyone is welcome to use it free of charge. Just remember to
It took some persuading and the purchase of a double kayak, but Donna spare a thought about John and Donna as you do.
finally gave in. John would take Donna out on the water, and together they
5
Series
Meeting the faces
TRUE Synergy
behind Chestermere's
community
organizations
Takes a Community
Look around Chestermere and it doesn’t take long to see the fingerprints of After working in group homes, therapeutic foster homes and serving as the
Synergy’s work in our city. Director of Community Services with the Town of Chestermere, she took the
helm of Synergy when it began in 2012.
From the tangible impact of painted garbage cans and a mural by the
lake to the priceless benefits of youth having a mentor, Synergy is one of Coralee has also been with Synergy from
Chestermere’s most well-known not-for-profits. its earliest days. After completing her
Business Diploma and a Not-for-Profit
As part of our series to meet the faces behind our community organizations, certificate, she began with the
we sat down with Patty Sproule, Synergy’s Executive Director, Coralee Town of Chestermere in 2011 and
McIntosh, the Community Development & Operations Manager, and Terry Gill, moved to Synergy full time in
the Senior Program Coordinator. 2013. Her current role focuses
on working with other non-
Synergy’s Leaders profits, helping get community
initiatives what they need to
While Patty, Coralee and Terry originate from different provinces, they have
be successful, and facilitating
worked together for a long time and share a passion for the youth of our city.
coalitions.
Together, they are synergy personified.
Coralee says with a smile that
“We have worked closely together for several years and Coralee McIntosh “no two days are really the same.
know each other well,” Patty smiles. “We can all get Community Development & Every day is a little bit different.
Operations Manager
excited about projects together. It is about building a Some days, I’m looking after the
financials doing projections and grant
foundation and promoting citizenship in the community.”
applications, the next day we’re creating a
marketing plan for a brand-new program.”
Patty says that from very early in her career, she was drawn to youth that were
having trouble with behaviour and dedicated her time to working with
But in addition to enjoying the day-to-day work, Coralee finds deep satisfaction
high-risk youth.
in the type of services the organization provides. “We feel very fortunate to be
6
connecting with people and providing For Coralee, the one close to her heart is the Connection and Care program
programs. “We try to figure out which offers low-cost counselling to families.
how to work together to make
Chestermere, Langdon and South “It is really hard to be able to reach out for help. When families come up
East Rocky View County a against barriers such as cost or long wait times, it is really hard for them
better place.” to want to go back and ask for help again, or, jump through all the hoops
necessary. There have been cases where we have been able to help people
Rounding out the senior team within a couple days instead of waiting 3 to 6 months to see a counsellor.”
is Terry Gill. He started with
Synergy as a volunteer in 2014 Terry shared that SHOUT Boys in particular is a unique program.
and transitioned to the Program
Coordinator role in 2016. With “Across Alberta there is a lack of male mentors, but not for us! We have a
Terry Gill
education in psychology and surplus quite frankly. Our mentors come from a range of diverse backgrounds
Senior Program Coordinator
sociology, he currently serves as the and ages.”
Senior Program Coordinator.
Terry and Patty also share a particular interest in assisting high needs youth.
“In my role, I help all the program facilitators
manage youth programs,” Terry explains. “Part of my role is to be the School “They come here because they fall through the cracks elsewhere,” Terry said.
Liaison with all schools in Chestermere, Indus and Langdon, I oversee the
SHOUT and YELL programs, and there is full team involvement for completing Synergy’s full range of youth programs include:
grant applications. Charitable organizations have lots of paperwork,”
• Shout (Ages 10-12)
he smiles.
• YELL Youth Council (Ages 13-17+)
In addition to this core group, Synergy meets its goals with the support of • Dabble (Ages 7-9)
several part-time staff, interns and volunteers. • Friday Fam (Ages 13+)
• Homework Helpers (Grades 4-12)
A Pandemic Pivot
• Internship Program (Ages 15-21)
Over the past decade, Synergy has faced a variety of changes and
• Safety Programs (Ages 10+)
challenges, but one of the most significant has been the global pandemic.
Last spring pushed the team, like so many others, to a virtual environment.
Synergy also offers a full range of community services:
Programming did resume in June 2020 but required double to triple the
amount of sessions to keep with capacity restrictions at the time. • Connection and Care Counselling Services
• Mental Health Coalition
During the first weeks of the pandemic, Synergy, along with other community
• Not-for-Profit Sector Support
non-profits began a series of weekly meetings to share information about the
rapidly changing requirements for everything from facilities to programs to • Community Capacity Building Initiatives
grant applications. These meetings still continue on a monthly basis.
Whatever program they are offering and whatever format they need to offer it
“Since last summer, we have pivoted in, the community can rest assured that every member of the Synergy Team
back and forth for restrictions as will continue pouring their energy into providing the best support possible to
required,” Patty said. youth and our community.
And while the constant
change was challenging,
Terry acknowledges that the
pandemic offered some silver
linings as well.
“The pandemic did highlight
new ways to connect. It allowed
programming access to those who Patty Sproule
can’t leave their homes for various Executive Director
reasons, and we explored new digital
channels such as Slack where people
can interact any time. That connection
promotes efficiency and collaboration.”
Building Future Leaders
Regardless of whether it is online or in-person, Synergy remains focused
on their mission to empower youth and community groups to build strong
connections through relationships, education, leadership and programming.
“There is a saying that youth are our leaders of tomorrow,
we see them as leaders of today,” Coralee says.
ABOUT SYNERGY
While they have a range of youth programs, each of these team members Synergy is a locally designed and based non-profit serving Chestermere,
have their own particular passion projects. Langdon and South East Rock View County. To learn more about their
work, programs and services visit yoursynergy.ca.
“The YELL Youth Council program. It is still really vibrant and provides a great
Learn more about Synergy at:
deal of service to the community. Those kids do some amazing things,” Patty
said proudly. yoursynergy.ca
facebook.com/SynergyConnects
“I have a particular spot in my heart for the youth intern program as well. We
provide opportunities for interns to train. Everything from first aid, how to deal twitter.com/synergyinvolved
with difficult situations with people, opportunities to work with kids and in office instagram.com/yoursynergy
settings,” Patty shared.
7
Recent
Council
Decisions
For full meeting minutes visit
chestermere.ca/agendas.
Top row (L to R): Councillor Yvette Kind, Councillor Ritesh Narayan, Councillor Mel Foat, Councillor Michelle Young
Bottom row (L to R): Councillor Laurie Bold, Mayor Marshall Chalmers, Councillor Cathy Burness
April 6 May 4 approved 2021 Capital Budget by carrying
forward $3,544,062 to 2021.
• Council gave First, Second, and Third Readings • Council approved the Development Permit
to Bylaw #006-21, Temporary Beaches and application, Chestermere Professional Building • Changes in funding for the resurfacing of
Recreational Areas Near Water Bylaw, Revision - DP 21-6750 for 117 Main Street, with Rainbow Road to Municipal Stimulus Program.
as presented. the proposed conditions as outlined in Exhibit A • The following three purchases from 2020 -
• Council gave First, Second, and Third Readings of the Request for Decision dated May 4, 2021. $20,123 for Traffic Signal Controllers funded
to Bylaw #005-21, Chestermere Policing • Council supported Option 3 from the Stormwater by Equipment RSA, $10,000 for Thermal
Committee Repeal Bylaw, as presented. Outfall Feasibility Study, which consists of Camera being funded by MSI, and $9,000 for
stormwater treatment and conveyance by WID, Water Heater funded by Equipment RSA.
• Council directed Administration to develop a
Terms of Reference for a Mayors Task Force and approved commencing the preliminary • The buy-out of the lease for the Events van
on Youth, in collaboration with the community’s design including obtaining the in the amount of $19,500 to be funded by
youth serving agencies and recreation required approvals. Equipment Infrastructure Restricted Surplus
providers, with the purpose of identifying the • Council appointed Krista Mainprize as the Account in May 2021.
needs of youth within the community and Substitute Returning Officer for the 2021 • Council approved the reallocation, additions and
proposing avenues to bridge these gaps, to be Municipal Election, effective immediately. withdrawals identified in the transaction list in
comprised of youth and youth representatives, • Council carried a motion requesting that the the Request for Decision dated May 18, 2021,
and that the draft Terms of Reference be Chestermere Library Foundation, formed for the regarding the respective Restricted Surplus
brought to Committee of the Whole no later than purposes of providing fundraising support for the Accounts in the net deposit of $1,685,176.
the end of Q2 2021. Chestermere Public Library, immediately and • Council appoint Yalda Sayed to the Chestermere
unconditionally release the funds in the amount Economic Development Advisory Committee
April 20
of $23,000 gathered from the community to the as the Chestermere Chamber of Commerce
• Council gave First Reading of Bylaw #007-21, Chestermere Library Board and that the City representative effective immediately for a
Municipal Development Plan Amendment – assist the Chestermere Library Board to obtain scheduled term ending December 31, 2021.
Clearwater Park, as presented. Council directed, these funds.
within their respective roles, the applicant and • Council gave First, Second, and Third Readings
Administration to work toward a comprehensive • City of Chestermere Council carried a resolution to Bylaw 011-21, Municipal Election Bylaw,
Municipal Development Plan amendment to support the 2021 Federal Census, and as presented.
that addresses the proposed reduction of encourages all residents to complete their
census questionnaire online at census.gc.ca or • Council gave First, Second, and Third Readings
employment lands, expansion of possible to Bylaw 010-21, 2021 Taxes Rate Bylaw,
interim land uses, entranceway features, through any other means endorsed by Statistics
Canada, as accurate and complete census data as presented.
private recreation facilities, municipal services,
support programs and services that benefit • Council approved a start time of 9 a.m. for all
a community engagement strategy, and any
our community. Council Meetings and Committee of the Whole
additional items deemed mutually appropriate by
• Council directed Administration to examine the Meetings, effective following the Organizational
the City and the Developer.
current 80km/h speed limit on the section of Meeting of the 2021-2025 newly elected Council.
• Council gave First Reading of Bylaw
Chestermere Blvd with the intent of determining • Council approved that the discussion regarding
#008-21, Clearwater Park Area Structure
if a reduction in the speed limit will have the Election Signage be accepted for information.
Plan, as presented. Council directs, within
their respective roles, the applicant and impact of enhanced safety and that this item be
Administration to work toward a revised added to Council’s Action List.
Clearwater Park Area Structure Plan submission May 18
that addresses policy alignment including the Tune in to watch
MDP and infrastructure policies, incorporation • Council approved the Terms of Reference
for the Chestermere/Rocky View County Chestermere City Council
of supplementary reports into the body of the meetings online!
ASP, diversity of residential land use districts Intermunicipal Committee between the City of
including the R-3C and DCETC districts; Chestermere and Rocky View County, Visit to view live and
reduction of employment lands; financial as presented. previously recorded Council
implications for Chestermere Utility Co. and • Council approved motions regarding the meetings online at
City, connectivity and open spaces, and any Continuity of Capital Projects from 2020 to chestermere.ca/agendas.
additional items deemed mutually appropriate by Future Years:
the City and the Developer. • The update to the December 1, 2020
8
THE CITY OF CHESTERMERE'S
2021 Municipal Election
IS October 18, 2021
2021
This fall, there will be a municipal election in Chestermere. It will be for the election of the new City Council which includes the
Mayor and six Councillors. The province of Alberta will also be running a Senate and Referendum Election, which will be in
conjunction with our municipal election.
Our Election Team hosted a Candidate’s Information Session on May 27 that covered all aspects of the upcoming election: How
to become a candidate, what to expect during an election, and a good insight to the workings of City Hall and what it means to
be on the City Council. The presentation can be viewed on the City's YouTube channel.
CAN I VOTE? HOW TO BECOME A CANDIDATE
Download the Chestermere Prospective Candidate Guide
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO VOTE? 1
This guide has the complete information you will need to be a
To vote in the Chestermere municipal election, you must: candidate for municipal office in the City of Chestermere. Find it at
chestermere.ca/election.
• Be at least 18 years of age;
• Be a Canadian citizen; 2 Confirm Eligibility
• Be an Alberta resident for the 6 months prior to Election Day; To be nominated as a candidate for City Council, a candidate must
be at least 18 years old; a Canadian Citizen; have resided in the
• Have your place of residence located in the City of Chestermere on City of Chestermere for the six consecutive months immediately
Election Day; preceding Nomination Day AND is not otherwise ineligible or
• Show ID to verify your name and address disqualified. For more eligibility requirements, please see sections
21-23 of the Local Authorities Election Act.
ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF ID: Complete the Candidate Nomination Package
3
Nomination forms, requirements, and deposit information can be
The best form of ID is a government issued photo ID that shows both found by downloading the Prospective Candidate Package.
your name and address, eg. Driver’s License.
Submit Your Nomination before 12 p.m. September 20, 2021
If one does not have a Driver’s License, then 2 pieces of ID will be required 4
Late Nominations will not be accepted. The nomination package
to prove both name and address. Some examples are listed below:
must include all completed forms, a deposit, and a confirmation that
the candidate has completed reading required sections of the Local
• AB Health Card
Authorities Election Act.
• Bank or credit card statement
• Insurance policy/coverage card
• Utility bill
• Lease or mortgage statement ADVANCE VOTING DAYS
• Vehicle registration/insurance coverage card
• Statement of government benefits This year we have increased
• Income tax return ELECTION DAY IS the number of Advanced Polling
• Property assessment notice dates due to COVID. All eligible
If you have a temporary residence, (eg. for school or live in an institution),
MONDAY, voters may also vote at
advance polls.
an Attestation of Residence (letter confirming you live at the stated
address) will be acceptable.
OCTOBER 18 Sunday, October 3
Monday, October 4
If no ID is available (due to just turning 18, being a new resident to 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 13
Chestermere, etc.) you can have someone vouch for you. They must know Saturday, October 16
you and where you live and they must be an eligible voter and have not
vouched for anyone else. They must then sign a formal document that will 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
be kept on file and recorded on the Elector Register.
WHERE CAN I VOTE?
Please visit chestermere.ca/election for a complete list of acceptable
forms of ID. CHESTERMERE RECREATION CENTRE
201 West Chestermere Drive
For more information about the municipal election, visit
chestermere.ca/election
9
10
SUMMER
ringmere
"I'm from Springmere Way, we
Sp Legend
MAP are here since 2016. I love my Pathway
neighbourhood specially duck
Recreation
We asked Chestermere residents what they about their pond, kids playground and for
neighbourhoods on the City's social media channels. Check out
Playground
evening walk wood bridge is
some of their answers! so close to our house. We just
love Chestermere after we Soccer Pitch
With so many fantastic communities and recreation options moved from BC."
within the City of Chestermere, take this summer and explore
- @gavin_aarman Baseball Field
them all with the help of our summer recreation map. And if you
visit every playground this summer - share your adventures and
Beach Volleyball
tag us @citychestermere!
Court
The Cove
"The best part about our
Cove area is the Cove Beach. Beach Access
Springmere
Aspen
mere Cove Park As a family we have grown
Close 135 Cove Close up there, watched the Cove
families grow up there. Skating Bike Park
and sledding in the winter
Paradise Road
and building sandcastles and Basketball Court
kayaking in the summer."
"If it wasn’t for my daily - @mospeidel Tennis Court
Westmere
dog walks through our
neighborhood and the daily
Parkmere Green
greeting I got from neighbors
and other walkers, this would
Hawkmere Gate
have been a very lonely year
Marina Drive
in isolation. I am so thankful
for this Westmere community." Windermere Drive Dog Park
- Taina Redl Access at the end of
Marina Road
Cove Drive
Prairie Waters School
201 Invermere Drive
John Peake Park &
The
Boat Launch
100 John Morris Way
Cove
Cove Road
Westmere
e
G reens
Oakmere Way
s i d e
re Driv
e
"We are grateful to live in a
L a k
me
tranquil place where we enjoy
nature at its best. A place
Inver
Springmere Drive Millennium Park
where neighbours know each
other. The golf course is a East Chestermere Drive
cornerstone of our community.
d Anniversary Park
A place where friends and Roa
mere West Chestermere Drive
families can enjoy the Spring
outdoors."
- Joanne Lemna
Chestermere Rec Centre
Lakeside
201 West Chestermere Drive
Merganser DriveSunset Park
East Chestermere Drive
McIvor Terr
Chelsea West Creek Springs
ive
Dawson’s
ere Dr
re
"By far best neighbourhood in
West Creek East Lake
e
Landing Chesterme
Chestermere especially with
esterm
h
the back bike alley leading
re Driv
W. Lakeview Passage
right to East Lake school and
Lake
football fields."
West C
sterme
West Creek Circle
- @audovenko
he
West Creek Drive
West Lakeview Circle
West Lake East Lakeview Road
vi
East C
ew Drive
Rainbow Road
West Creek Blvd
Bike Park
East
333 West Creek Drive
"YES!!!! It's our turn! Moved
West Creek
to Chestermere 2 years Chestermere Lake
Lakeview
ago here in West Creek. Middle School
LOVE it! fantastic neighbors, 128 W. Lakeview Drive
neighborhood. The beautiful Lav
storm pond to walk around in end
er W T WP
its beauty. The view make it ay RD 2
41A
feel like your at the cottage.
We are now into bird watching
because of the storm pond
bringing in a variety of birds Chestermere Yacht Club
Rai
(and other critters) the sunsets 635 East Chestermere Drive
nbo
around the pond are stunning.
wF
alls
And at night with all the
Dri
homes around the pond with
ve
their backyard garden lights
Blvd
reflecting in the waters at night
make it magical!" Our Lady of Wisdom School Kinn
iburgh
ibur
- Lisa Mayer-Austin Rainbow Falls Drive gh D
rive
"Quiet community with
Kinn
Kinniburgh
East Lake School
325 Kinniburgh Blvd. great pathways, parks and
community assets. Great
connection to the canal
pathway for family bike rides,
Rainbow
and rides around the lake."
- @erikvyyc
Falls
Camp Chestermere
1041 East Lakeview Road
Kinniburgh
"We love all our neighbors in our cul-de-sac (with 20+ kids!) and those who are in
walking distance. We use the awesome paths that take us to the ponds and canal
all the way to the falls and the schools. There’s not a day that goes by that I’m not
waving at a familiar face on the roads. We love our little corner of the city!"
- Vanessa Bevery
o w F al l s
11
Rain bChestermere Regional Community Association
Com e e
check out th
C E N T R E
REC
Great spaces available to fit any need.
• Two gyms • Fully equipped fitness training facility, complete with shooting lanes
• Two ice rinks • Multiple meeting rooms
• Indoor & outdoor soccer pitch • Three baseball diamonds
Chestermerecrca.com
(403) 272-7170 201 West Chestermere Drive, Chestermere AB
12Library Hours
Monday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Wednesday 1 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Thursday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Sunday CLOSED
105B Marina Road
(403) 272-9025
info@chestermerepubliclibrary.com
chestermerepubliclibrary.com
Please check our website for the latest updates about facebook.com/ChestermerePublicLibrary
programs, hours, events and activities. Due to the evolving
nature of the regulations around the COVID-19 pandemic, twitter.com/ChestermereLib
our services may change with little notice. As always, we
will comply with government and AHS regulations. instagram.com/chestermerelibrary
1. Call us, tell us what you'd like and book
Summer Reading Program a pick-up time.
2. Call us when you arrive.
June 18 - August 31, 2021 3. Pick up your checked-out items (contact-
less) from outside the library doors.
We are participating in the 2021 TD
Summer Reading Program. This year’s
If you arrive without an appointment, please
theme is Game On. This program is
allow us a few minutes to collect and check out
geared toward ages 3 – 12.
your holds and get them ready for pick-up.
Watch our website and Facebook pages
for details about specific events and Tech Tutoring
programs. We will be offering some virtual
programming, which will ensure continuity Call the Library at
should the regulations change again. (403) 272-9025 to book an
appointment for help with our
eResources, general tech
questions or help with
your device.
We have spots available on
Library2You Wednesday evenings
These services will be on 6 - 7:45 p.m. and Thursday
hiatus for July and August. mornings 10 - 11:45 a.m.
We will restart our courier
services in the fall. Stay
tuned for more information Parenting2Go
on our Facebook and Parenting2Go is a service
website pages. designed as a tool to help
facilitate conversations and to
support caregivers/parents/
adults to broach difficult life
topics with children.
Contact us for more information!
In-Person Story Time!
Watch our website and social media for
notifications regarding the return of in-
Online Novel Book Club -
person storytimes here in the Library.
On Hiatus for the Summer
Did you know that we have our own The summer months are busy,
YouTube channel? Search 'Chestermere and we have decided to put our
Public Library' on YouTube and Novel Book Club on hold over
subscribe to our channel, or explore the the summer.
Chestermere Anchor News' YouTube
channel for our content. Connect back with us in the fall!
13MajorNews Read all details at chestermere.ca/news
As your Mayor, I have been fortunate to have users can expect to learn about the most common
heard your dreams, desires, fears, ambitions, invasive aquatic species threatening Chestermere
opinions, and views about our future. I appreciate Lake through an information campaign online and
your thoughts about what is best for our at the lake’s access points, such as the
community and ideas to make it even better. boat launch.
These have guided me in my journey as your
Mayor and will continue to do so until my last day The best thing residents and visiting lake users
in office. can do to help protect our lake is to always
CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY your equipment.
With the upcoming municipal election this October,
I encourage everyone to vote, and I wish the best For more information on invasive aquatic species,
of luck to those who are seeking the honour of visit chestermere.ca/ais.
Mayor Chalmers Announces He Will Not serving their community as your new City Council.
It has been my privilege to do so, and I thank you
Seek Re-election
for the opportunity to have been your Mayor.
Dear Chestermerians,
Regards,
Chestermere’s future is bright and full of exciting
promise and opportunity. We are moving towards Marshall
Council’s vision of being Amazing, and with more
people choosing to call Chestermere home, we
are now the third fastest growing community
in Canada. The City of Chestermere and Western
Irrigation District partner to protect
Over the past term on Council, I have been Chestermere Lake from AIS
humbled by the trust the community has placed
in me, and I am extremely proud of Council’s The City of Chestermere and the Western
accomplishments on your behalf. Together, we Irrigation District (WID) have joined forces to keep
have brought you four consecutive years of Chestermere Lake and local waterbodies safe
reduced taxes, brought utility service delivery from aquatic invasive species by investing in a
back in house (which allowed a reduction in utility new boat cleaning system.
costs), and we are moving forward with several National Invasive Species Awareness
key initiatives including transit, recreation, diverse Week: Help Protect Chestermere Lake It is a free, waterless, user-operated boat cleaning
housing options, new ways of doing business, system that allows boaters to effectively clean,
spurring commercial development, reducing Did you know goldfish are one of fifty-two invasive drain, and dry their watercrafts, an essential
crime, addressing seniors’ needs, enhancing species listed in the Fisheries (Alberta) Act that activity that helps stop the spread of aquatic
communication, and service improvement. All this can cause harm to the environment as they invasive species. The system is made possible
good work is continuing despite the current public establish residence outside of their natural range. with support from the City of Chestermere, WID
health and economic crisis, and I have every Once in a new body of water, these invasive and a grant awarded by the Alberta government,
confidence that Chestermere is poised to reach aquatic species can quickly overtake the delicate through the Canadian Agriculture Partnership.
our vision of truly being an Amazing community. ecosystem and cause unintended results such as
increased infestation. This infestation can interfere Boats, kayaks, canoes and paddle boards can
That said, after deep reflection, discussions with with future recreational use (such as boating and carry the ‘aquatic hitchhikers’ which can change
my family, and contemplating my future, I have swimming) and displace wildlife. the ecology and have a serious impact on the
decided to not seek re-election this fall. ecosystem. To date, Alberta has successfully kept
During National Invasive Species Awareness them out of our waterways and using this boat
My wife Deb and I are not leaving Chestermere, Week, the City of Chestermere is bringing cleaning system will help keep it that way.
but with a sense of accomplishment and kept attention to goldfish and other common culprits
promises, I can confidently pass the Mayor’s chain such as flowering rush, quagga and zebra The unit will be conveniently located in the
of office to another. Service has been my life’s mussels, yellow flag iris, and Himalayan balsam; municipal boat launch parking area near John
passion, and this decision will allow me to consider all species causing concern for Chestermere Lake. Peake Park and will be free of charge. Boat launch
future opportunities, whether it be in the public or staff will allow users into the area for public day
private sector. Through the summer months, residents and lake use from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Residents registered for
14a seasonal pass will be able to access it from The schematic designs by Gibbs Gage Architects
8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. show both the internal and external plans for
phase 1 of the 11,000 m2 facility. The approved
To learn more about how to clean, drain and dry budget for this project is $39.5 Million and will be
your boat properly, visit alberta.ca. To learn more funded by developers (through offsite levies), and
about the Boat Cleaning Unit visit: government grants.
chestermere.ca/boats
The current indoor designs for phase 1 include a
full size FIFA and multi-sport field, a walking track,
change rooms, a wellness centre, team rooms and
community space.
EPCOR leak detection program underway The new facility will provide year-round space for
this summer close to 20 indoor field sports such as soccer,
rugby, cricket, ultimate frisbee, field hockey,
You may see crews from EPCOR in your yard or football, softball, lawn bowling and lacrosse, as
at the end of your property this summer as they well as community rooms and a wellness centre
will be locating water shutoff valves to test the for fitness activities and exercise therapy.
distribution system for leaks.
The outdoor designs also show plans for outdoor
Chestermere CAPTURE Program Please be sure the valve is visible and accessible. gathering space, multi-season amenities (like
Goes Live There will be no interruptions to water service basketball courts that can be flooded to create an
while testing takes place. outdoor rink), outdoor sports fields, bicycle parking
Chestermere RCMP and the City of Chestermere
are proud to announce the launch of the and transit accommodations.
Now is a good time for residents to also check
CAPTURE (Community Assisted Policing Through
their homes for water leaks. A dripping tap can Future phases may also include arenas
Use of Recorded Evidence) program.
waste as much as a litre of water every couple (depending on the future plans of the CRCA
of hours. arenas and future community engagement),
This initiative represents the evolution from
the Voluntary Registry of Home Surveillance outdoor fields (in partnership with adjacent
currently kept at the Chestermere RCMP to a fully schools) a municipal building and library, and the
automated online service accessible by residents possibility of an aquatic leisure centre (depending
and businesses 24/7. on details and regional collaboration with the
City of Calgary for a new aquatic centre complex
The purpose of the program is to seek public planned for the east side of Calgary).
assistance with solving, deterring, and preventing
crime in our community through provision of City Council’s approval to proceed to the design
captured surveillance footage. development stage is a momentous decision that
will see the first tender for construction later
Signing up is easy. Simply visit this year.
chestermerecapture.ca to learn more about the
program and to create your account. Schematic Designs for New Civic A sod turning for the new facility is anticipated for
Recreation Centre Approved! this coming August. In the meantime, consultation,
Once on the system, Chestermere RCMP governance and operational planning work
members can quickly identify residences or The City of Chestermere is excited to announce will continue.
businesses which may possess footage to assist that schematic designs for the upcoming civic and
in solving crimes in the area. Provision of the recreation centre have been approved. To learn more about the project, visit
footage is voluntary, access to your personal Chestermere.ca/civiccentre.
information is limited to Chestermere RCMP, and The much awaited new centre will be located just
participants can cancel their accounts at any time. off of Merganser Drive in the new community of Public engagement opportunities will be posted to
Dawson’s Landing, and will be situated across the chestermereconversations.ca.
Visit chestermerecapture.ca today. street from two future schools.
15Offer some Chestermere hosp
to pollinators by building a Bee Hotel in your yard!
Did you know? Chestermere was the second city in Canada, and
the first city in western Canada, to be designated as a
bee-friendly city by Bee City Canada!
Bee City Canada’s mission is to inspire cities, towns, First Nations, schools,
businesses and other organizations to take action to protect pollinators.
“Our local Bee City Committee was formed in 2016 and since then, the
Committee and the City’s Parks Team have been working hard to help save the
declining population of bees in our area,” says Bee City Committee Liaison and
City of Chestermere Parks Coordinator, Alison Ciupa.
Between 75% and 95% of all flowering plants on the planet need pollinators to
produce their seeds. Pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, wasps, flies,
beetles and hummingbirds.
Many pollinators are facing hard times in Canada and around the globe due to
environmental stress stemming from pesticides and parasites, which affect not
just the bees themselves but our entire food supply.
About 1 in every 3 bites of food we eat is a result of pollination by animals,
mainly bees. While all different types of wild bees pollinate our food, managed Chestermere's Bee City Committee
honey bees are the main pollinator of agricultural crops in Canada and around
the world.
Honey bees and wild bees both rely on nectar and pollen for healthy and
productive populations.
“Pollinators like bees can live and prosper in our yards if we protect their
habitats. We can offer some Chestermere hospitality by planting bee-friendly
trees, shrubs and flowers and providing areas for nesting, either in the ground
or by opening up your own bee hotel,” says Ciupa.
Alison adds that the Chestermere Bee City Committee has spent many
summers attending local events and presenting at schools to help educate the
public about how to help native bees and honey bees thrive in our community.
“This education includes handing out information about how to build bee
houses and hotels in your yard and even supplying residents with little
packages of flower seeds that will provide a welcoming habitat and food source
for bees,” she says. “We are also trying to increase community awareness by
promoting programs such as the Community Garden, the Birth Forest and the
East Lake School Bee Garden, and by adding pollinator habitats to our more
than 70 parks and green spaces around the city.”
Alison adds that the City’s Parks Team have shifted their focus from controlling
weeds to maintaining healthy turf and shrub beds as this will reduce herbicide
use (that may harm pollinators) and promote healthy bee populations.
Learn more about how you can help support the local bee population on the
next page!
More information about Chestermere’s Bee City activities:
• Volunteers of all ages can help to plan habitat creation projects, increase awareness and provide opportunities to educate residents about
the importance of pollinators in our urban environment.
• Please call the Chestermere Parks Department at (403) 207-2807 or Alison at aciupa@chestermere.ca to get involved.
• As COVID-19 restrictions have limited public events this year, the Bee City Committee has relied more on providing resources on the City’s
website for the community to research and learn more about how to support their local pollinators.
• Each year in June, when the City recognizes National Pollinator Week, learn more about how you can support pollinator populations by
visiting beecitycanada.org.
Resources: chestermere.ca/beecity, beecitycanada.org, beecitycanada.org/pollinator-pledge, pollinator.org
16pitality
You can also
create a bee hotel
by drilling holes
into wood blocks
and attaching them
to a fence or stand.
How to build a DIY bee hotel
Materials:
• A plant pot, a plastic bottle (cut in half), a tin can or a ceramic coffee mug
• Bamboo canes or rolled up sheets of paper
• String or raffia
• Compost (sticks, branches, leaves, recycled newspaper)
• Decorations/Pens to decorate (optional)
Make it!
1. Cut up the bamboo canes (or chosen alternative) so they'll fit snuggly inside the plant
pot or alternative.
2. Pack them tightly into the plant pot, and if you need, pack compost around until all
the canes are secure.
3. Decorate your hotel if you so wish (paint, marker, etc.)
4. Tie string around the pot nice & tightly, and hang up somewhere in your garden
*Note: if you use the coffee mug, you will not require the string. Simply hang the mini
hotel by the handle of the mug.
Tips:
• Your bee hotel needs to be in a sunny, but sheltered spot.
• The pot needs to be slightly pointed downwards, so it doesn't just fill up with rain.
• Pop in near some flowers so the bees don't have to travel too far.
(Instructions sourced with permission from beecitycanada.org)
Here are some plants that will help fuel honeybees
with healthy fats and proteins:
• Flowering trees and shrubs such as raspberry,
choke cherry, willow and snowberry
• Alpine Azalea
• Evening Primrose
• Gaillardia
• Geraniums
• Honeysuckle
• Lilac
• Marigold
• Prairie Buttercup
• Prairie Coneflower
• Sunflowers
(Sourced with permission from beecitycanada.org)
17and services for infants, specific focus being to support parents and caregivers with children
0-13 years of age.
We do this by delivering a variety of engaging parenting workshops, seminars, and
r
out outips, and
Parent & Caregiver
individualized support to help parents connect with the most up-to-date information,
Checkchildren. g a
t listin
resources when it comes to being a parent and raising healthy, resilient It takes
currenand support
rams
village to raise a child, and PCSS is here to offer families local connection
throughout your parenting journey!
o f prog
Support Services Check out our
current listing of
Programs
Parent & Caregiver Support Services (PCSS) offers free, quality, community-based parenting support, programs, and CONNECT WITH US:
services in Chestermere. We are provincially funded through the Government of Alberta's Family Resource Network (403) 207-7050
(FRN) program with our specific focus being to support parents and caregivers with children 0-13 years of age. pcssinfo@chestermere.ca
Please contact us
for more information:
GROW & LEARN
(403) 207-7050
Our virtual Grow & Learn sessions are designed to help parents and caregivers connect with and learn
from local service providers and professionals in the community.
pcssinfo@chestermere.ca
chestermere.ca/pcss
Offered on a monthly basis, this program features a presentation, discussion, or exercise on a popular
parenting topic (eg. healthy eating, sleep routines, resiliency, or mindfulness). Get your parenting
questions answered, and walk away with valuable knowledge, resources, and information about local
programs and services!
Check out the dates and times for our upcoming sessions at chestermere.ca/pcssprograms.
ONE-ON-ONE PARENTING SUPPORT GROW & LEARN SESSIONS - JULY AND AUGUST
Did you know that the PCSS Team offers one-on-
Are you interested in learning how to support your child’s
one parenting support? Our warm and welcoming
language and communication skills?
team of Caregiver Support Facilitators offers
free, confidential support, information, resources,
Join us for Grow & Learn in July and August for the
referrals for families with children ages 0-13 years
opportunity to connect with a local Speech & Language
of age.
Pathologist, Sarah Buckingham from Blue Water
Speech Therapy.
Whether you are looking for information on potty
training or how you can help your child cope with
Learn how you can help your child meet important
stress, our team will help you create a customized
developmental milestones, ask questions, and learn about
plan that works for your family.
different resources, and strategies to help support your
child’s speech and language skills!
Don’t let the stressors of parenting impact your
family this summer. We are available to help!
Session #1 is for Parents/Caregivers with Children
Call or send an email to chat with a PCSS Team Ages 0-3: Thursday, July 29 from 9:30 - 11 a.m.
member today.
Session #2 is for Parents/Caregivers with Children
Ages 4-7: Thursday, August 12 from 9:30 - 11 a.m.
LOOKING FOR MORE? Register at no cost by visiting
There are plenty of chestermere.ca/growandlearn today!
free programs and
services available for
DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENING
Chestermere families,
parents, and children Developmental screening is an opportunity for
(0-18 years) through parents to check their child’s development and
our regional Family address any potential concerns with the help of
Resource Network. resources and supportive professionals.
Use the QR code The Ages & Stages Questionnaires® (ASQ) are
above or visit the most widely used developmental and social-
chestermere.ca/pcss emotional screening tools for children ages 2 months
to check out the to 6 years of age.
monthly network
newsletter Complete your free online Ages & Stages
containing a Questionnaires this summer by visiting
full listing of chestermere.ca/asq. After we've reviewed it you'll
programs and receive a personalized follow-up with one of our
activities offered Caregiver Support Facilitators. They'll discuss your
this summer! child’s results, address any questions or concerns
you may have, and provide helpful resources!
18TELL US WHAT YOUR CITY MEANS TO
YOU WITH NEW COMMUNITY
BANNER PROJECT
A new initiative from the Chestermere Streetscape Committee
invites residents to submit photos for a new set of banners that
will be displayed in Anniversary Park.
“The idea behind our community banner project is community
pride and participation,” says Bea Germain, Chair of the
Chestermere Streetscape Committee. “The project is open to all
residents, and we are encouraging people use these banners to
tell the community what living in Chestermere means to them.”
Germain adds that banners can feature photos and short text or
quotes that illustrate the community’s favourite local activities,
pets, family, hobbies, or even their best photos of
Chestermere scenery.
The cost to participate is $80 for one side of a banner.
Participants who would like to pay for their banner with a credit
card or cheque will need to complete the form available on the
City’s website. There is an additional form available for any
participants who would prefer to pay for their banner with PayPal.
Participants can visit chestermere.ca/communitybanner for
information on how to upload their photos and text. Please note
that there is a word limit of 25 words and applications may be
edited for appropriateness and text length.
Once the $80 fee is paid, the banners will be produced and
displayed in Anniversary Park from spring to fall each year.
Visit chestermere.ca/communitybanner for more info.
STREETSCAPE COMMITTEE PROVIDES
CONTEST TO ENCOURAGE CREATIVITY
AND WATER CONSERVATION
The City’s Streetscape Committee has developed an exciting rain barrel
contest for residents to show their creative decorating skills along with
their innovative rain water harvesting techniques!
To participate, residents can register for the contest on the City’s
website, then pick up a free rain barrel from Eco Growth Environmental,
use their own rain barrel, or purchase one for $65 from the City’s
Eco Centre.
Prizes will be awarded for the most creatively decorated rain barrel, and
for the most innovative water capture or water harvesting system.
Photos can be submitted to comms@chestermere.ca and all images will
be uploaded to a photo album on the City’s Facebook page for display.
“The contest will run through to the end of July to allow participants
ample time to register and take photos of their barrels,” adds Ciupa.
“We will announce the winners in early August.”
Five (5) $100 gift certificates to a local Chestermere business will be
awarded to the top five most innovative water capture systems. Ten (10)
$50 gift certificates to a local Chestermere business will be awarded to
the top 10 most creatively decorated rain barrels. All participants who
submit a photo and description will also receive a $10 gift certificate
to Garden Scents Garden Centre or Cobblestone Garden Centre as a
thank you for participating.
The registration form and more ideas on rain barrel water
collection and usage can be found on the City’s website at
chestermere.ca/rainbarrelcontest.
19Celebrating
our diverse
events in
Chestermere
To help remind us of the important role we can play in
helping to promote mutual understanding and respect for
people of all backgrounds, here are some cultural events to
celebrate during the months of July, August
and September!
For more information on diversity initiatives at the City
of Chestermere, contact the office of Diversity and
Inclusion at:
Diversity@chestermere.ca
(403) 207-7050, ext. 7047
See all our community events at chestermerecalendar.ca.
Mandela Day on July 18 is a global call to action International Youth Day takes place on taken place annually around the world to
that celebrates the idea that each individual has August 12, and gives an opportunity remind the public of the importance of
the power to transform the world, the ability to to celebrate and mainstream young literacy as a matter of dignity and human
make an impact. peoples’ voices, actions and initiatives, rights, and to advance the literacy
as well as their meaningful, universal agenda towards a more literate and
and equitable engagement. sustainable society.
Heritage Day on August 2 is intended to
celebrate the province's heritage right from the
Indigenous peoples through to the modern-day Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is an The UN General Assembly has declared
diversity that enriches the daily life annual Hindu festival that celebrates September 21 as International Day of Peace.
in Alberta. the birth of Krishna, the eighth avatar of This day is devoted to strengthening the ideals of
Vishnu. It takes place on August 30. peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence
and cease-fire.
August 9 is International Day of the
Worlds’ Indigenous Peoples. This Labour Day is September 6 this
is a UN declared date to celebrate the year and is always celebrated on the The annual Orange Shirt Day on September
heritage and acknowledge the struggles first Monday in September. It has 30 opens the door to global conversation
of indigenous people around the world. been a national holiday since 1894 on all aspects of Residential Schools. It
and acknowledges the rights and is an opportunity to create meaningful
contributions of Canadian workers. discussion about the effects of
Hijri New Year or Arabic New Year on August 9, Residential Schools and the legacy they
is the day that marks the beginning of a new lunar have left behind.
Hijri year, and is the day on which the year count International Literacy Day (ILD) is on
is incremented. September 8. ILD celebrations have
20You can also read
