Dear editor,
This is Canada’s 150th birthday and also an opportunity, again, to bring up the issue of the lack of flags in our great City of Wetaskiwin and communities in the county. I know you embrace ideas from everyone so here goes.
While on county council, I brought up the issue of flags with city and county councilors. Where are the flags? I also brought this up with the chamber of commerce. Why do the businesses not fly our flags? Nothing to my knowledge has changed. Even though I live in the County of Wetaskiwin, I have also been supportive of the City of Wetaskiwin as well I should.
As we travel through the United States, we are impressed with the display of patriotism everywhere. Even in small towns, we noticed that every second intersection had their star-spangled banners flying high. Never did I see a tattered flag.
The City of Wetaskiwin wanted a “brand” and has been talking about it for years. Jump on the bandwagon and become the “Little City of Flags”. Advertise on your websites and other social media just how patriotic we are. The Legion would embrace this 100 per cent. You might even get a grant for this….
Wetaskiwin has beautiful flowers at the entrances of the city limits. I suspect they will be red and white this year. I suggest that the Canadian flag and the Alberta flag be flown in these areas as well. The downtown section is lacking interest for the tourists. Get some flagpoles up. Also on Hwy #2A on the auto mile. Show those who are passing through, that maybe they should stop take a look at our fair city. You have beautiful parks. This is an area to display flags from all provinces plus other flags. Not enough time you say? Every idea starts out with a blueprint. This may be a multi-phase project but I am sure you can find monies in this year’s budget to get started. Acknowledge local clubs that donate funds for flags and flagpoles.
Air cadet leaders would jump all over the opportunity to raise and lower these flags morning and night. It is in their training how to properly and respectfully handle the flags. Make it an educational event for the youth of the community. The air cadets would love the exposure.
We have flown the Canada flag and the Alberta flag on our farm for years. Residents of both the County and the City of Wetaskiwin could easily do the same. Make your street red and white. Have contests among your neighbors. Get in the program while plants are available.
All politics aside, use this anniversary to display pride in your community, your province and your country. You would be surprised how uplifting it can be.
Brenda Shantz,
County of Wetaskiwin