Strathmore Happy Gang

08/27/2026

Hello, everyone!
I trust you've been well and are soaking up these last days of summer. Here are a few new things for your calendars, plus a reminder of other upcoming events:

A note from The Happy Gang - Membership renewals will be accepted until September 4 (Monday to Friday). Membership fee is $50 for the year. Consider renewing before the September AGM on September 4 to cut down on lineups; new memberships will be accepted just before the AGM from noon until 1 pm. There is great value for money with a Happy Gang membership, as there is always something planned!

Low Impact Walking - Low impact walking with Arlene Wahl will recommence at the Happy Gang on September 8, at 10 am and will be held on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. All members welcome, come and enjoy some regular exercise.

Baby Volunteer Needed - This sounds like the best volunteer job EVER! The Strathmore Library is seeking a volunteer to assist with baby programs on Monday and Tuesday mornings. If interested, please email Laura at [email protected]

Be a Book Buddy - Book Buddies is program at the Strathmore Library that provides support for children who are experiencing reading difficulties or need help building their reading confidence.
Volunteer applications are available here: Volunteer Application 2021.pdf

Free Concert - This fall's free concert at Hope Community Covenant will feature the folk-music stylings of Adam Corkett and will be held Tuesday, September 15, at 1:30 pm. The concert series is open to the public and is free for anyone to attend.

Please remember:

Our first fall session of Lunch Club is coming up on Tuesday, September 15. It will be nice to see everyone again, but please consider volunteering for this very worthwhile program. Lunch Club will only be successful if we have enough volunteers to run it. Please reach out to me here or to one of our regular volunteers if you can help out, even if it's a few times a year.

Fall dates for Lunch Club are: September 15 & 29; October 13 and 27; November 10 & 17 (please note these back-to-back dates, this is not an error) and winding up for the year with our annual Christmas party on December 1. I already have three terrific guest speakers lined up. Lunch Club runs from 11 am to 1 pm at Lord of All Lutheran Church in Strathmore.

If you haven't already, please get your registrations in for:

Dinosaur Anatomy Challenge - Join science educators from the Royal Tyrrell Museum to learn about the different types of dinosaurs that lived in southern Alberta. Examine real dinosaur fossils and work together to identify them. Whether you’re a palaeontology enthusiast or simply curious, this event offers a relaxed way to connect with others and explore Alberta’s ancient past—one fossil at a time. Two identical sessions are planned for Thursday, September 10: The first will be held at the Standard Young At Hearts Centre from 10 - 11 am; the second will be held in the Rockyford Friendship Centre that afternoon from 1 - 2 pm. I will be there with coffee, goodies, and door prizes, so please plan to attend. You may register with me up until September 3, by emailing me here or by calling 403-934-5335 ext 3.

Tech Talk! - We are offering another session of Tech Talk!, personalized one-on-one tech support with knowledgeable staff and volunteers from SAIL (Strathmore & Area Adult Inclusive Learning). If you need help with email, with your phone, laptop or Ipad, or staying safe online, plan to attend this second session of Tech Talk! on Thursday, September 17, at 10 am in the Strathmore Library Program Room. Please email me here if you would like to register and please indicate what you need assistance with.

Learn Monoprinting with BTG in Gleichen - Please join us to learn the art of monoprinting and make some original and unique nature prints to take home. Nature is full of intricate details, delicate patterns, and quiet beauty. Botanical monoprinting preserves the fine textures and unique characteristics of plants, flowers, and leaves. This is a free event for those 55+. All materials will be supplied, Thursday, September 24, at 1 pm at the Gleichen Community Hall. Please register with Nancy by September 17 by emailing [email protected] or by calling 403-934-5335 ext 3.

Ears to You Mobile Hearing Health Check Day - You might remember our BTG Hearing Health session with Ears to You last winter. Trish from Ears to You (the guest presenter that day) will be back at the Strathmore Library in her mobile van conducting hearing tests on Tuesday, September 29. These appointments book up fast, so call now to book yours: 403-970-7201.

Don't forget to check out our page for all the extra things I post there.

That's it for this week, friends. Stay well!

“The morning had dawned clear and cold, with a crispness that hinted at the end of summer.”
– George R.R. Martin

Kindest regards,


Nancy van Egmond

Program Coordinator

Bridging The Gap

08/20/2026

Hello, everyone! It's good to be back in the office and planning for a full season of BTG events, starting in September.

Our first fall session of Lunch Club is coming up on Tuesday, September 15. It will be nice to see everyone again, but please consider volunteering for this very worthwhile program. Lunch Club will only be successful if we have enough volunteers to run it. Please reach out to me here or to one of our regular volunteers if you can help out, even if it's a few times a year.

Fall dates for Lunch Club are: September 15 & 29; October 13 and 27; November 10 & 17 (please note these back-to-back dates, this is not an error) and winding up for the year with our annual Christmas party on December 1. I already have three terrific guest speakers lined up. Lunch Club runs from 11 am to 1 pm at Lord of All Lutheran Church in Strathmore.

We are also working on our Christmas Crafting in the County workshops (stay tuned for the dates) and another hands-on workshop in Gleichen. More details will be released next week.

If you haven't already, please get your registrations in for:

Dinosaur Anatomy Challenge - Join science educators from the Royal Tyrrell Museum to learn about the different types of dinosaurs that lived in southern Alberta. Examine real dinosaur fossils and work together to identify them. Whether you’re a palaeontology enthusiast or simply curious, this event offers a relaxed way to connect with others and explore Alberta’s ancient past—one fossil at a time. Two identical sessions are planned for Thursday, September 10: The first will be held at the Standard Young At Hearts Centre from 10 - 11 am; the second will be held in the Rockyford Friendship Centre that afternoon from 1 - 2 pm. I will be there with coffee, goodies, and door prizes, so please plan to attend. You may register with me up until September 3, by emailing me here or by calling 403-934-5335 ext 3.

Tech Talk! - We are offering another session of Tech Talk!, personalized one-on-one tech support with knowledgeable staff and volunteers from SAIL (Strathmore & Area Adult Inclusive Learning). If you need help with email, with your phone, laptop or Ipad, or staying safe online, plan to attend this second session of Tech Talk! on Thursday, September 17, at 10 am in the Strathmore Library Program Room. Please email me here if you would like to register and please indicate what you need assistance with.

Learn Monoprinting with BTG in Gleichen - Please join us to learn the art of monoprinting and make some original and unique nature prints to take home. Nature is full of intricate details, delicate patterns, and quiet beauty. Botanical monoprinting preserves the fine textures and unique characteristics of plants, flowers, and leaves. This is a free event for those 55+. All materials will be supplied, Thursday, September 24, at 1 pm at the Gleichen Community Hall. Please register with Nancy by September 17 by emailing [email protected] or by calling 403-934-5335 ext 3.

Also of interest:

Happy Gang AGM & Elections - The Happy Gang's Annual General Meeting & Electins fall on Friday, September 4, followed by a BBQ and card and board games. Further information is posted at the Happy Gang, and if you require further information, please contact Yvonne at 403-901-3122.

Work as a Returning Officer - The Province is hiring for the upcoming provincial referendum on October 19. Please see their webpage here for the details and for the online application form: https://www.elections.ab.ca/elections/work-as-an-election-officer/

Looking for a Volunteer Opportunity with Youth? -Make a difference in the lives of local youth while supporting community events and programs with the Purposeful Youth Network. I've included their poster, so please reach out to them if you would like to learn more: 825-454-0383

Ears to You Mobile Hearing Health Check Day - You might remember our BTG Hearing Health session with Ears to You last winter. Trish from Ears to You (the guest presenter that day) will be back at the Strathmore Library in her mobile van conducting hearing tests on Tuesday, September 29. These appointments book up fast, so call now to book yours: 403-970-7201

Rural Needs Assessment Survey - If you are a rural resident, please take a moment to fill out the WFCSS Needs Assessment Survey. Your feedback helps WFCSS understand local needs, strengthen programs and services, and build a healthier, more connected community. If you take the survey, you name will be entered into a draw to win one of five $100 gift cards! Please see the poster for the QR code, or simply use this link:
https://www.wfcss.org/2026-social-needs-assessment.html

Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of migrating warblers. They are the most beautiful songbirds. Here's a link to an article I found, including pictures and recordings of their songs. So pretty! 24 Species Of Warblers In Alberta (ID, Song, Season Guide) And another interesting article:
Fall Migration; Warbler Season! - Birds Calgary

Fun fact: I had a female American Redstart stop by in my yard last fall, and I also saw a hummingbird just this past Monday, visiting the flowers next to the back door. They typically stop in about this time of year and it's always a treat to see them.

Don't forget to check out our page for all the extra things I post there.

That's it for this week, friends. Stay well!

“The warbler sings not because it must, but because its soul is filled with music.” - Unknown

Kindest regards,


Nancy van Egmond

Program Coordinator

Bridging The Gap

Social Needs Assessment

08/07/2026

Hello again, everybody!
I hope you've all been well and managing this heat, but it does look like more seasonal temperatures are on the way.

Here are few new items for your calendars, as well as a reminder of upcoming BTG events. Please keep this email handy, as the next edition of the BTG newsletter won't be published until August 20.

It's Stampede Weekend! - I've been sharing updated information on our page as I see it. There are loads of pancake breakfasts, including the Strathmore Legion Pancake Breakfast, Friday, July 31 from 8 - 10 am, compliments of Capital Power Strathmore Solar; and Lord of All Pancake Breakfast, Saturday, August 1, from 7:30 am to 8:30 am. The cost of this is $5/plate, with all proceeds going to benefit True North, a safe place for those impacted by abuse. And don't forget to bring your lawn chair to watch the parade immediately afterwards!

And saddle up for the Open Mic Night at More Bulgogi from 3 - 7 pm on Saturday, August 1. This might be a great event to attend to beat the heat given the forecast for Saturday! This is always a fun time; please see the poster for all the details. As well, more music and an all-you-can-eat menu is planned for Sunday, August 2. Please see the poster for all those details.

Looking for a Volunteer Opportunity with Youth? - Make a difference in the lives of local youth while supporting community events and programs with the Purposeful Youth Network. I've included their poster, so please reach out to them if you would like to learn more: 825-454-0383

Ears to You Mobile Hearing Health Check Day - You might remember our BTG Hearing Health session with Ears to You last winter. Trish from Ears to You (the guest presenter that day) will be back at the Strathmore Library in her mobile van conducting hearing tests on Tuesday, September 29. These appointments book up fast, so call now to book yours: 403-970-7201

Rural Needs Assessment Survey - If you are a rural resident, please take a moment to fill out the WFCSS Needs Assessment Survey. Your feedback helps WFCSS understand local needs, strengthen programs and services, and build a healthier, more connected community. If you take the survey, you name will be entered into a draw to win one of five $100 gift cards! Please see the poster for the QR code, or simply use this link:
https://www.wfcss.org/2026-social-needs-assessment.html

A Note from The Happy Gang - The walking group is cancelled for the month of August.

As well, please register now for these upcoming BTG events, starting in September:

Dinosaur Anatomy Challenge - Join science educators from the Royal Tyrrell Museum to learn about the different types of dinosaurs that lived in southern Alberta. Examine real dinosaur fossils and work together to identify them. Whether you’re a palaeontology enthusiast or simply curious, this event offers a relaxed way to connect with others and explore Alberta’s ancient past—one fossil at a time. Two identical sessions are planned for Thursday, September 10: The first will be held at the Standard Young At Hearts Centre from 10 - 11 am; the second will be held in the Rockyford Friendship Centre that afternoon from 1 - 2 pm. I will be there with coffee, goodies, and door prizes, so please plan to attend. You may register with me up until September 3, by emailing me here or by calling 403-934-5335 ext 3.

Tech Talk! - We are offering another session of Tech Talk!, personalized one-on-one tech support with knowledgeable staff and volunteers from SAIL (Strathmore & Area Adult Inclusive Learning). If you need help with email, with your phone, laptop or Ipad, or staying safe online, plan to attend this second session of Tech Talk!, Thursday, September 17, at 10 am in the Strathmore Library Program Room. Please email me here if you would like to register and please indicate what you need assistance with.

Lunch Club- Lunch Club will resume September 15, at 11 am at Lord of All Lutheran Church in Strathmore. We have been busy lining up some guest speakers for the fall.

Learn Monoprinting with BTG in Gleichen - Please join us to learn the art of monoprinting and make some original and unique nature prints to take home. Nature is full of intricate details, delicate patterns, and quiet beauty. Botanical monoprinting preserves the fine textures and unique characteristics of plants, flowers, and leaves. This is a free event for those 55+. All materials will be supplied, Thursday, September 24, at 1 pm at the Gleichen Community Hall. Please register with Nancy by September 17 by emailing [email protected] or by calling 403-934-5335 ext 3.

Also of interest:
Exhibits and Events at 'The Vault' Cultural Collective - Please see their August newsletter for what's new: https://thevaultonline.ca

Elections at the Happy Gang - It's nearly that time again. If you would like to run for a board position, please read the duties of the members, posted beside the blackboard in the card room at the Happy Gang. Deadline for nominations is Wednesday August 26. The Annual General Meeting will be held in September.

Internet & Cell Phone Fee Assistance Plans Through Telus - If you're a low-income senior, you may be eligible for the Mobility for Good® and Internet for Good® seniors' programs, reduced rates for internet and cell phone service. Please see the website for more information, and if you would like help to apply or would like more information, please reach out to Deana at 403-934-5335 ext. 4. https://www.telus.com/en/social-impact/connecting-canada/connecting-for-good-programs/seniors

The Night Sky This Week - Eyes to the sky for the Full Buck Moon and the Perseids Meteor Shower. The meteor shower will peak August 12, and the New Moon will mean perfect viewing conditions (let's hope for no smoke and no cloud): https://www.theweathernetwork.com/en/news/science/space/the-perseid-meteor-shower-has-begun-heres-when-and-where-to-see-it

That's it for this week, friends. Remember to look for the next edition of the newsletter coming to your inboxes August 20.

Kindest regards,



Nancy van Egmond

Program Coordinator

Bridging The Gap

We're now roughly two weeks out from the peak of the Perseids, and based on the timing of the Moon's phases, this is setting up to be one of the best in years

07/25/2026

Hello again, everyone!
I hope you've been enjoying summer and the slower pace.

As promised, here are some upcoming BTG events we have been working on, starting in September. Please save the dates:

Dinosaur Anatomy Challenge - Well, this is something new for BTG! Staff from the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller reached out to me to collaborate and offer some special sessions, just for seniors. Join science educators from the Tyrrell to learn about the different types of dinosaurs that lived in southern Alberta. Examine real dinosaur fossils and work together to identify them. Whether you’re a palaeontology enthusiast or simply curious, this event offers a relaxed way to connect with others and explore Alberta’s ancient past—one fossil at a time. Two sessions are planned for Thursday, September 10: The first will be held at the Standard Young At Hearts Centre from 10 - 11 am; the second will be held in the Rockyford Friendship Centre that afternoon from 1 - 2 pm. I will be there with coffee, goodies, and door prizes, so please plan to attend. You may register with me up until September 3, by emailing me here or by calling 403-934-5335 ext 3.

Tech Talk! - We are offering another session of Tech Talk!, personalized one-on-one tech support with knowledgeable staff and volunteers from SAIL (Strathmore & Area Adult Inclusive Learninng). If you need help with email, with your phone, laptop or ipad, or staying safe online, plan to attend this second session of Tech Talk!, Thursday, September 17, at 10 am in the Strathmore Library Program Room. Please email me here if you would like to register and please indicate what you need assistance with.

Lunch Club- Lunch Club will resume September 15, at 11 am at Lord of All Lutheran Church in Strathmore. We have been busy lining up some guest speakers for the fall.

Learn Monoprinting with BTG in Gleichen - Please join us to learn the art of monoprinting and make some original and unique nature prints to take home. Nature is full of intricate details, delicate patterns, and quiet beauty. Botanical monoprinting preserves the fine textures and unique characteristics of plants, flowers, and leaves. This is a free event for those 55+. All materials will be supplied, Thursday, September 24, at 1 pm at the Gleichen Community Hall. Please register with Nancy by September 17 by emailing [email protected] or by calling 403-934-5335 ext 3.

Also of interest:
Western Art Exhibit and 'A Tribute to Our Grandmothers' - Enjoy these two new exhibits at the Vault Cultural Collective in downtown Strathmore. Please see their July newsletter for these events and much more: https://thevaultonline.ca/

Elections at the Happy Gang - It's nearly that time again. If you would like to run for a board position, please read the duties of the members, posted beside the blackboard in the card room at the Happy Gang. Deadline for nominations is Wednesday August 26. The Annual General Meeting will be held in September.

Heritage Days Volunteers Needed - The Strathmore Lions are requesting volunteers for many roles for Heritage Days, including cleanup before and after the event. Please reach out to Lion Dirk at [email protected] if you are interested.

Strathmore Stampede Volunteers Needed - Please go to their webpage for details and to apply: strathmorestampede.com/volunteer.

And don't forget:
Internet & Cell Phone Fee Assistance Plans Through Telus - If you're a low-income senior, you may be eligible for the Mobility for Good® and Internet for Good® seniors' programs, reduced rates for internet and cell phone service. Please see the website for more information, and if you would like help to apply or would like more information, please reach out to Deana at 403-934-5335 ext. 4. https://www.telus.com/en/social-impact/connecting-canada/connecting-for-good-programs/seniors

Gleichen Show & Shine - This Saturday, July 25, from 9 am to 4 pm. There will be lots to see and do in Gleichen that day -- look at the outstanding cars, food trucks, musicians, artisan tables and horse activities too. Contact Mike Junor at [email protected] or call 403-400-5050 for more information and to register. This event is organized by the Gleichen & District Community Association.

Get Involved with Stomping Down Barriers Run -
Registration is now open to run or walk in this year's Stomping Down Barriers Run for Mental Health! If you'd rather support from the sidelines, organizers are also looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make the day a success. Whether you participate or volunteer, your involvement helps strengthen our community. The event happens Sunday, August 9, in aid of the Elks Mental Health Project

Link to Register: https://raceroster.com/events/2026/113550/stomping-down-barriers-for-mental-health

Link to Volunteer: https://raceroster.com/events/2026/113550/stomping-down-barriers-for-mental-health/volunteer

The Strathmore Stampede starts next week. There are loads of pancake breakfasts planned that weekend, but two that might interest you are:
Strathmore Legion Pancake Breakfast - Friday, July 31 from 8 - 10 am, compliments of Capital Power Strathmore Solar.

Lord of All Pancake Breakfast - Saturday, August 1 from 7:30 am to 8:30 am. The cost of this is $5/plate, with all proceeds going to benefit True North, a safe place for those impacted by abuse. And don't forget to bring your lawn chair to watch the parade immediately afterwards!

I have shared these two events on the BTG page, and will continue to share more Stampede events there as I see them.

Phew, that was a lot of news to catch up on! I look forward to getting your registrations for all the fun events we have coming up this fall.

Kindest regards,


Nancy van Egmond

Program Coordinator

Bridging The Gap

Stomping Down Barriers For Mental Health Strathmore, AB, Canada - Stomping Down Barriers for Mental Health August 9th, 2026… - August 9, 2026

06/25/2026

Hello everyone! And happy summer to you all! I can't believe that Canada Day is only days away — that said, we are already making plans for BTG programming in September. I'll have more about that in our next newsletter so you can save the dates.

But first, here are some resources and upcoming events:

Internet & Cell Phone Fee Assistance Plans Through Telus - If you're a low-income senior, you may be eligible for the Mobility for Good® and Internet for Good® seniors' programs, reduced rates for internet and cell phone service. Please see the website for more information, and if you would like help to apply or would like more information, please reach out to Deana at 403-934-5335 ext. 4. https://www.telus.com/en/social-impact/connecting-canada/connecting-for-good-programs/seniors

Canada Day Celebrations/Volunteer Opportunities in Strathmore - As always, there will be much to do on Canada Day in Strathmore, with music, food, and a huge market at Kinsmen Park, happening all day. The festivities kick off at 9 am at Kinsmen Park, please go here for a full listing of events and a link to the volunteer page: https://www.strathmore.ca/culture-events/view-strathmore-events-calendar/canada-day-2026/

Celebrating 100 Years - The Strathmore Legion is celebrating its 100th anniversary and 100 years of community service, remembrance and pride with a special commemorative ceremony at 4 pm on Friday, July 17. Please see the attached poster.

Strathmore Legion's 2nd Annual Motorcycle Show & Shine - The Show & Shine will be held in the lot just west of the Legion, also on Friday, July 17, and will culminate with a barbeque and a guided Cavaliers Cruise through town. Please see the attached poster.

Gleichen Show & Shine - Saturday, July 25, from 9 am to 4 pm. There will be lots to see and do in Gleichen that day -- look at the outstanding cars, food trucks, musicians, artisan tables and horse activities too. Contact Mike Junor at [email protected] or call 403-400-5050 for more information and to register. This event is organized by the Gleichen & District Community Association.

Get Involved with Stomping Down Barriers Run -
Registration is now open to run or walk in this year's Stomping Down Barriers Run for Mental Health! If you'd rather support from the sidelines, organizers are also looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make the day a success. Whether you participate or volunteer, your involvement helps strengthen our community. The event happens Sunday, August 9, in aid of the Elks Mental Health Project

Link to Register: https://raceroster.com/events/2026/113550/stomping-down-barriers-for-mental-health

Link to Volunteer: https://raceroster.com/events/2026/113550/stomping-down-barriers-for-mental-health/volunteer

Art Exhibits at the Vault: As always, there is something new at The Vault! https://thevaultonline.ca/

Fashion Show - One of our BTG Advisory Committee members suggested we might have a fashion show with wedding dresses or fashion from eras past. I thought that sounded like a terrific idea! So if you've got something suitable, please set that aside for a future BTG event!

That's it for me this week, friends. I will be back with the next edition of the BTG newsletter on July 23, after taking a bit of time off.

“Then followed that beautiful season … summer. Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light; and the landscape lay, as if new-created in all the freshness of childhood.” —Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

“If you’re not barefoot, then you’re overdressed.” —Unknown

Kindest regards,


Nancy van Egmond

Program Coordinator

Bridging The Gap

Central resource dedicated to the promotion of historical and fine arts initiatives in Strathmore, Alberta.

06/19/2026

Hello, everyone!
I hope you've been well. Things at BTG are winding down for the summer, but here are some community events that might interest you:

Summer Dancing - The Wheatland Whirlers always have a good time, and they dance outdoors at the Kinsmen Park Pavilion Wednesday evenings, starting at 7 pm. Drop in any or every Wednesday! Please see the attached poster for more information.

Hussar Summer Daze - This annual event in Hussar kicks off tomorrow night in Hussar with Name That Tune and some live local music! Please see the Summer Daze website at https://www.hussarsummerdaze.com/ for a listing of all the activities, including a pancake breakfast, parade, slow pitch games, and even a community dinner and a talent show. Lots of fun out in Hussar.

Happy Gang's Old Fashioned Picnic in the Park - This sounds like fun, too! Save the date for Saturday, July 25. A potluck picnic and games are planned for the afternoon (organizers are urging people to bring old fashioned picnic fare) and to wear their craziest summer hats. Sign up by July 17 at the Happy Gang. Please see the attached poster for all the details.

Mobile Hearing Van - The Ears to You mobile hearing van will be back in our community on Thursday, July 23. Appointments book up quickly, so please call 403-970-7201 if you require a hearing screening or full hearing assessment.

Walking Group - Don't forget there is a walking group that meets at Kinsmen Park on Thursdays, starting today, June 18, at 2pm, if you would like to walk in company. This group will walk together until September 3. Please see the attached poster for more details.

Mindful Resilience Group - And a new group will start in July, for people wanting to work towards wellness while enjoying nature. The Mindful Resilience group will meet at Station Gardens (near the Strathmore Public Library) on Wednesdays, from July 8 to August 5, from 2 - 3:30 pm. Each week organizers will share specific information, resources, and skills, which will assist you in maintaining your mental health. This is a drop-in group for adults. If you require more information, call Strathmore Addiction Mental Health Clinic at 403-361-7277.

And don't forget:
Collective Cooking in the County - The next Collective Cooking workshop through Wheatland FCSS is planned in Standard on Saturday, June 20. If you would like more information or to register, please call 403-934-5335, or go here: https://www.wfcss.org/collective-cooking.html
Please note, this is the last collective cooking until the fall.
That's if for this week, friends. I will have some more events for you next week, as well as announcements of two upcoming BTG events in September so you can save the dates!
“It was June, and the world smelled of roses. The sunshine was like powdered gold over the grassy hillside.”
— Maud Hart Lovelace
Kindest regards,


Nancy van Egmond

Program Coordinator

Bridging The Gap

Spring 2026 Dates: February 28th - Hussar (Registration closed) May 2nd - Carseland May 23rd - Rockyford May 30th - Gleichen June 20th - Standard * There are no menu substitutions and you will be...

06/13/2026

Good day, everybody!
I hope you've recovered from a very busy Seniors' Week. We were so happy to see a full house at our free seniors' matinee, and so happy to hear how much you enjoyed the movie! We are planning another matinee closer to Christmas, and if there is a movie you'd like us to show, please drop me a note here. I always welcome suggestions.

Here are a few new things for your calendars, including this fantastic event:

Seniors' Emergency Preparedness Day - Organized by Strathmore FCSS in partnership with True North and the Strathmore Fire Department, Wednesday, June 17th from 11:00 am -2:00 pm, at the Strathmore Library. The event will feature three guest speakers, including Emily Pye from Strathmore FCSS (you'll remember her from Lunch Club and from Seniors' Week), who will be speaking about basic needs supports, FCSS programs, and local resources. True North will be speaking about how to recognize signs of senior abuse and how to navigate difficult situations. And the Strathmore Fire Department will discuss the importance of home safety plans and how to be prepared for an emergency.
Participants can then build their own emergency binder/kit, followed by Question & Answer Period. Light refreshments will also be provided. No registration necessary.
Dinosaur Anatomy Challenge - Well, this is something new for us! Staff from the Royal Tyrrell Museum reached out to BTG to plan two events this fall for local seniors. Join science educators to learn about the different types of dinosaurs that lived in southern Alberta. Examine real dinosaur fossils and work together to identify them. Whether you’re a palaeontology enthusiast or simply curious, this event offers a relaxed way to connect with others and explore Alberta’s ancient past—one fossil at a time. There will also be time to ask the staff about any exciting finds they have made. This event is planned for Thursday, September 10, in both Standard and Rockyford. I'll announce registration information soon.
Tai Chi at the Happy Gang - The June 11 class is cancelled and will resume June 18. The Tai Chi class meets Thursday at 11 am through the summer. Everyone is welcome anytime. Come when your schedule allows and stay as long as you can. For more Happy Gang Events, please see their website at: https://www.thehappygang.ca/activities/
And don't forget:

Walking & Wellness Groups - Don't forget there is a walking group that meets at Kinsmen Park on Fridays, starting June 18, if you would like to walk in company. And a new group will start in July, for people wanting to work towards wellness while enjoying nature. Please see the attached posters.

Lunch 'n Learn in the County - The next, and last date, for the spring will be Friday, June 19, and the topic of the day is 'The Great Brain Relay'. That sounds fun! Make sure you register by the Monday prior (which is June 15) by calling Wheatland FCSS at 403-934-5335 or by registering online: https://www.wfcss.org/lunch-n-learn.html

Collective Cooking in the County - The next Collective Cooking workshop through Wheatland FCSS is planned in Standard on Saturday, June 20. If you would like more information or to register, please call 403-934-5335, or go here: https://www.wfcss.org/collective-cooking.html
Please note, this is the last collective cooking until the fall.
The night sky this week - Throughout the month of June, there are two 'friend groups' of planets visible in the sky, split by daylight. Each evening, Jupiter, Venus, and Mercury will be above the western horizon just after sunset. Throughout the month, Jupiter will appear farther to the west each evening, while Venus and Mercury will be higher above the horizon. Meanwhile, every morning, we can see two other planets — Saturn and Mars — just above the eastern horizon before sunrise.
That's it for this week, friends. Stay well!

Kindest regards,



Nancy van Egmond

Spring 2026 Dates: February 28th - Hussar (Registration closed) May 2nd - Carseland May 23rd - Rockyford May 30th - Gleichen June 20th - Standard * There are no menu substitutions and you will be...