Seismic crews utilizing helicopters and other equipment are buzzing around in the Prince/Meota area. Workers swarm over construction projects, large and small, at all corners of the Battlefords. An early morning commute to work, that used to be a solitary existence, is sometimes seems like being dropped into the middle of a Nascar race.
There is no argument the Battlefords are teeming with activity.
At Monday's council meeting the City amended land prices on land west of Territorial Drive and Pioneer Avenue/ Carlton Trail, paving the way for development there.
An engineering firm has also been hired to conduct environmental screening of seven light industrial properties located along Railway Avenue. These were acquired by the City from Canadian Pacific Railway, and an environmental review must be completed for the City to be able to market and sell the properties.
That offers a glimmer of hope that the dismal view passers through must get of North Battleford as they drive along Railway Avenue into the downtown core will eventually see some improvement.
As we ride along on this wave of prosperity, it is important to remember not all of society benefits from what is viewed as an economic boom. For a variety of reasons there are people in our community who are unable to tap into the wealth that surrounds us. Our attention is drawn to their plight this time of year by the efforts of the Empty Stocking Fund campaign to collect food and gifts for people who may go without this holiday season.
Getting behind the efforts of this organization is really as easy as falling off a horse.
The campaign kicks off with a beef on a bun luncheon Friday at Third Avenue United Church and trots over to Battleford the following day for the third annual Battlefords Quarter Horse Club Christmas Parade. Environment Canada indicates it will be cool, but sunny that day, perfect conditions for lining up to cheer on the rides and wagon drivers, as they raise money for the fund. Santa will also be collecting toys to help fill as many empty stockings as possible this season.
The luncheon and parade are just the beginning of a long list of activities designed to stuff the stocking. WPD Ambulance, for example, will again be promoting their Stuff an Ambulance endeavour. Nov. 19, Cash Back performs at Living Faith Chapel. Belly Ringing and Boots, which raised $16,00 last year, will be seen around the Battlefords Dec. 11 to 22. There will also be a carol festival at third Avenue United Church Dec. 14.
At Battlefords Publishing we will be holding our annual soup and bun luncheon Nov. 25, with all proceeds going to the Empty Stocking Fund. Proceeds of a weekly 50/50 draw at the plant will also go into the pot to be donated.
Why not dream up a way for your workplace to extend a hand of help and caring this holiday season? It always gives us a warm feeling and sense of giving back to our community.
