Misty Velichka appointed as LCREDB Economic Development Officer
For immediate release
October 26, 2023 – The Lac Cardinal Regional Economic Development Board (LCREDB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Misty Velichka as LCREDB’s new Economic Development Officer (EDO).
“Misty’s passion for the region and her eagerness to learn economic development made her an excellent candidate for the position,” said Dave Allan, Chair for LCREDB. “She’s been working with the board in an administrative role for the past few years, and her involvement with the Chamber of Commerce and community events makes her a great fit for the role.”
Velichka was born and raised in the Grimshaw area and is no stranger to community involvement and development through her seven years as the Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) Programmer for the Town of Grimshaw. For three years, she also assisted Dan Dibbelt, former LCREDB EDO, gaining experience and knowledge of LCREDB and the EDO role. Through her extensive work with FCSS, her familiarity with the region and her experience working alongside Dibbelt, Velichka has established connections and knowledge and is passionate about economic development and growth. Velichka is also a key organizer of the Annual Harvest Moon Festival in Grimshaw.
In her new role, Velichka will collaborate with board members, Chambers of Commerce, community groups and municipal staff with a focus on promoting sustainable development and growth in the area. The EDO is responsible for implementing the economic and growth strategies, marketing plans and projects to support LCREDB priorities and initiatives.
The Lac Cardinal Regional Economic Development Board is a partnership between the Town of Grimshaw, the Village of Berwyn, and the Municipal District of Peace #135 formed to nurture an economically strong and diverse region that enhances the quality of life for residents in our communities.
Secret Santa for a Senior awarded Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal
For Immediate Release
October 24, 2023 – The Lac Cardinal Regional Economic Development Board (LCREDB) and neighbouring municipalities warmly congratulate the organizers and volunteers of the Secret Santa for a Senior initiative who have been awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. The prestigious award was presented to Sue Morrison, who was nominated by Todd Loewen, MLA Central Peace Notley and Minister of Forestry and Park.
“This award is shared with everyone who donates to and gives their time to this important program,” says Morrison. “It takes all of our communities to make it happen.”
The program originated in 2016 and continues to grow. Over the last Christmas season, organizers Sue Morrison, Lucy Hannah, Gail Sandboe and volunteers from across the region (known as Santa’s Crew) fundraised, gathered and delivered over 1225 gifts and Christmas dinners to seniors from Manning to Peace River, west to Hines Creek and everything in between. In addition to senior residences, deliveries were made to all long-term care, assisted living and senior apartment complexes.
“Our seniors are the most vulnerable citizens,” says Morrison. “Many of them have lost their mates, have endured or are enduring a life-altering event and don’t have family close by. This program brings joy, hope and magic to their lives. That’s why we are so committed and passionate about it.”
The Santa Crew is hosting Hot Chocolate and Hotdogs with The Clauses and Seniors after the Grimshaw Santa Claus Parade, and Breakfast with The Clauses and Seniors on December 16, 2023, at the Berwyn Legion. All ages are welcome to attend.
“These events give seniors the chance to feel the magic of Christmas alongside children in the community,” says Morrison. “Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there to interact with and get pictures with the kids – something many seniors do not get to see often.”
Community members are invited to get involved by donating money or gifts, by bidding on items during the Facebook Auction that runs from November 15 to December 1st or by contacting organizers to find out how you can get involved. Some examples of current support includes knitting donated by a local knitting club, students from local schools making Christmas cards for the seniors and hosting classroom fundraisers, as well as donation jars in local business coffee rooms. The Secret Santa for Seniors organizers note that all gifts need to be received by December 1st to allow for isolation time.
“We decided to follow the previous pandemic protocol and isolate all the gifts for an extra layer of safety for our seniors.”
LCREDB Board Chair Dave Allan shares messages of congratulations and gratitude.
“Congratulations on this well-deserved award, and thank you for your time, care and dedication to improving the lives of seniors in the region,” says Allan. “This initiative is very meaningful for seniors and their families, and it is a wonderful way for communities to come together and get involved. We can’t thank you enough for the important work you do.”
The Lac Cardinal Country Regional Economic Development Board is a partnership between the Town of Grimshaw, the Village of Berwyn, and the Municipal District of Peace #135 formed to nurture an economically strong and diverse region that enhances the quality of life for residents in our communities.
