Strathmore a contender to host Alberta 55+ Summer Games
Shannon LeClair
Times Reporter
The Town of Strathmore administration and council have been working hard to promote the community and bring new large scale events to the community. On April 24 a committee of five people will be touring the town to see if we are the right fit to host the 2015 Alberta 55 Plus Summer Games.
The bid was submitted at the end of 2012, and now the bid committee is coming for the second step, which is to see the town and facilities first hand and determine if the town would be a good fit for their event.
“One of the unique things that we’re trying sell in our bid is that everything can happen in Strathmore,” said Tracy Simpson, Communications and Events Officer for the town.
The idea is to illustrate the fact that it will be easier for all participants in the games to be able to interact with each other because each of the facilities are so close together.
“What’s unique about Strathmore is the majority of thing will happen by the Civic Centre, but everything will be within the town limits, so we’re hoping to show them everything,” said Simpson.
“We want the community to get on board, it would be an amazing thing to bring to town. It would be a huge financial event for the community, people spending money in our stores, and hotels and campgrounds.”
The more community support and community spirit showcased, the more likely Strathmore will be selected, said Simpson. The event is expected to bring about 1,500 people to the host community.
Mayor Steve Grajczyk has been a long time supporter of promoting Strathmore and trying to bring different events that will help put the town on the map.
“It shows the people what a beautiful community we have and ultimately when we have that sort of atmosphere people want to come and live here,” said Grajczyk.
“There’s always the atmosphere that when you create curb appeal people want to come and live here. They know it’s a comfortable, safe, caring town to live in. If they know the leaders are caring then they know that the community is caring.”
He would like to see the community get on board and help the town looks it’s best to help entice the committee to choose Strathmore for the 2015 Alberta 55Plus Summer Games.