Christmas Message from Mayor Wendy Wald

As the twinkling lights of Christmas shine down on Main Street, I am reminded of just how blessed we are to live in this incredible community. The festive decorations, the familiar faces, and the sense of joy in the air all tell the story of a place that is special, warm, and full of spirit. It’s a magical time of year, one that invites us to pause, reflect, and be grateful for the many gifts we’ve received. And as we celebrate the season, I can’t help but feel immense pride for all that we’ve accomplished together in 2024. Looking back on the past year, it’s clear that 2024 has been a year of growth, resilience, and shared triumphs.

Our town continues to thrive, thanks to the dedication, hard work, and generosity of all who call Grimshaw home. From the opening of new facilities to the success of cherished events, we have much to be proud of—and much to be thankful for. The heart of our community remains the Multiplex and the school area, where we gather to celebrate, learn, and grow. It’s a place where memories are made, whether it’s through hockey, wellness initiatives, or community events. I am continually amazed by the tireless efforts of our community services team, who, with limited resources, manage to deliver so many wonderful opportunities for us all. Their commitment to our well-being is evident in everything they do, and we are richer for it. A highlight of this year was the annual beloved Pond Hockey event. Each winter, this unique gathering brings families and friends together on the ice for a fun-filled day, and this year was no exception. With perfect weather and a fantastic turnout, it was a reminder of the power of community spirit. A huge thank you to the volunteers who made this event possible—we couldn’t have done it without you. 2024 also marked the grand opening of the long-awaited Spray Park, a project that had been on the Community Services wish list for over 15 years. Thanks to the generosity of one of our residents, this dream became a reality, and it’s already proving to be a hit with families. There’s nothing more heartwarming than hearing the laughter and joy of children playing in the park. On behalf of the entire community, I want to offer a heartfelt thank you to those who made this happen—you’ve created a space that will bring happiness for generations to come.

Our Volunteer Fire Department deserves special recognition as well. This year, when a devastating fire broke out in the valley, our firefighters went above and beyond to protect our homes and loved ones. The speed and bravery with which they responded was nothing short of heroic. Whether they’re battling fires, educating the public on fire safety, or even helping with a water break at the Multiplex, these selfless volunteers are always there when we need them most. Thank you for your dedication to keeping us safe.

A big thank you also goes to our RCMP, whose hard work and commitment ensure our community remains a safe and peaceful place to live. This year, we bid farewell to Sgt. Brown, whose service to Grimshaw has been invaluable. We extend a warm welcome to Sgt. Lacey Blair, and we look forward to continuing to work together to maintain the safety and vibrancy of our town.This year was filled with unforgettable community events that brought us closer together.

The North Peace Stampede once again delivered a fantastic rodeo, celebrating our agricultural roots and providing fun for the whole family. The Harvest Moon Festival was another resounding success—what a joy it was to see Main Street come alive with laughter, music, and lights. From the delicious dinner at the Legion and the pie and jam competition to the new running race and exciting rides, there was something for everyone. The vendors and food trucks added to the magic, and it was wonderful to see so many local businesses, residents, and visitors come together in celebration. A heartfelt thank you to the amazing volunteers who made this event possible.

Halloween at the Lac Cardinal Museum, hosted by the Lac Cardinal Performing Arts, was another highlight of the year. The spooky event was a hit with all ages, and the Saturday morning pancake breakfasts at the museum continue to be a cherished tradition. These gatherings are a beautiful reminder of how our community’s creativity and spirit bring us closer together. Remembrance Day was a deeply moving occasion, as we gathered at the Legion to honour those who have served. We were privileged to hear Denise Testawich of Duncan First Nation share the story of her family’s military ties, and Klass Sipma’s poignant account of his childhood experience in the Netherlands during wartime left a lasting impression on all of us. Betty Paul’s heartfelt final recital of In Flanders Fields and Padre John Clarke’s reflections on sacrifice and service were powerful moments. A special thank you to Adam Murray for providing our youth with the remarkable opportunity to experience an overnight stay in the trenches. This experience will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on their hearts. The Grimshaw Chamber of Commerce has had a busy and successful year, and I want to take a moment to congratulate all the businesses that were honoured at the awards evening. It was a wonderful celebration of the businesses that make Grimshaw such a thriving and vibrant place. We are fortunate to have such a diverse and resilient business community, and we look forward to supporting their continued growth in the years to come.

Our library continues to be an invaluable resource for our community. From the North Branch to the Festival of Trees, the library offers so many wonderful programs and events for all ages. The staff’s dedication to fostering a love of learning and community connection is truly appreciated. The Grimshaw Food Bank, as always, plays an essential role in supporting those in need. Your efforts to ensure that no one goes without are deeply appreciated. Thank you for your compassion and for the unwavering support you provide to our community.

Healthcare remains a challenge, but I want to extend my deepest thanks to all our doctors, nurses, and medical staff who care for the health and well-being of our residents. Your dedication, often under difficult circumstances, does not go unnoticed, and we are incredibly grateful for all you do.

I would also like to thank all the staff and administration who work behind the scenes to keep our community running smoothly. Whether it’s Butch and his crew maintaining our roads, or handling day-to-day operations, or Angie answering the phone, you all make a difference in so many ways. This year, we were also fortunate to see two new paved streets completed, a much-needed improvement that will benefit our town for years to come. Lastly, I would like to offer a warm welcome to all the new residents who have made Grimshaw their home this year. We are so glad to have you here and look forward to building lasting connections with you in the years to come.

As we enter this holiday season, let’s take a moment to reflect on the blessings we have. It is the people of Grimshaw—our neighbours, friends, volunteers, service members, and businesses—that make this town so extraordinary. Together, we’ve built something truly special, and I do not doubt that 2025 will bring even more opportunities for us to grow and thrive.

Wishing you all a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Wendy Wald, Mayor