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St. Albert is a true service centre

When I was eight years old I wore two uniforms. The first was my Cubs’ shirt, which came with cap, neckerchief, woggle and eventually a plethora of badges for the various skills learned.

When I was eight years old I wore two uniforms. The first was my Cubs’ shirt, which came with cap, neckerchief, woggle and eventually a plethora of badges for the various skills learned.

Over the years I progressed through Scouts, Venturers and eventually became a leader within the organization. The second uniform was my little league baseball jersey, complete with usually white socks and an overly curved cap. I played community ball for seven years and thoroughly enjoyed having the opportunity to have fun and improve skills. I later became a coach and served as an umpire as a means to give back to the league that gave so much to me.

One evening after Cubs, I recall speaking with a neighbour, a retired police officer, who told me to continue to wear my uniform proudly. He stressed that being in a uniform at a young age often leads to wearing another down the road. He was right. What he told me, in essence, was that being in service to others is of vital importance to the greater community. The ‘other’ uniform it lead to was that of a naval officer which I have been wearing proudly now for 24 years.

Often when driving home from HMCS Nonsuch, where I serve as executive officer, I take special notice of the service club sign that marks the entrance into St. Albert. We have all driven by it and have quickly scanned the various symbols and logos of the numerous clubs and organizations in our city. For me it is an impressive overview of the tremendous level of community service that is exemplified in St. Albert.

Consider the number of volunteers it takes to put on the Kinsmen Rainmaker Rodeo we enjoyed this past weekend. Consider the wonderful initiatives that see food hampers and necessities delivered to our fellow citizens in greatest need. Consider the number of youth organizations and teams that our children enjoy so much. The heart of each of these organizations, the lifeblood that makes it all happen, are volunteers. St. Albert is blessed with many, many kind souls who give generously of their time, talent and treasure in giving our great city a vibrant soul.

Our professional service people too are to be commended for the vital service they provide. We all enjoy the parks, green spaces and trails. We have excellent facilities and amenities that add to our quality of life. Sometimes however, we take things for granted. We come to expect things. Sadly, we leave things to others and do not take up our fair share of lending a hand. Perhaps this is an area we can all reflect upon. Each of us has something to give. We can all make a difference to someone. All we need to do is put thought into action. So check out a service club or organization and see where it leads you.

I wish to extent heartfelt congratulations to the St. Albert Parish Knights of Columbus Council 4742 on the occasion of their 50th anniversary. Their past and present community service speaks to the level of care and involvement that permeates our city. For 50 years the Knights have been pillars of community initiatives and raised funds for an array of community needs. For the past 35 years they have provided an excellent community basketball program for our youth. I thank them for their example of service and dedication and wish them all the best in the years ahead.

There are many service clubs and volunteer organizations in our city each making a huge difference in our quality of life. Regardless of the uniform, regardless of the specific affiliations, St. Albert offers opportunity for every citizen to find a niche — to find a way to lend a helping hand to someone in need. St. Albert is a true service centre!

Tim Cusack has served gas, meals, tennis balls and occasionally notice.

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