Opinion

Unfortunately we have all faced tragedy in our lives in one form or another. Fortunately, we live in a community where friends, neighbours and even total strangers are willing to do what they can to ease our pain during those difficult times.

It is only fitting the 100th Grey Cup will include the Calgary Stampeders and the Toronto Agronauts.

I am so pleased with our members’ response to the Samaritan’s Purse shoebox drive. I love this project. You make me so proud of your generosity. Mark your calendars for our line dancing Christmas luncheon following classes on Dec. 13.

Okotoks town council needs to sacrifice some costly projects in an effort to minimize the potential increase in property tax. Council is currently debating its 2013 budget which currently includes a 4.2 per cent residential tax increase.

Okotoks’ reputation as a community embracing innovative technology and green initiatives can, at times, be a hinderance.

Joyce Moore’s report on the bluebird and tree swallow count for 2012 was encouraging, as both counts were up over last year — 22 per cent better for the bluebirds and fourth best count ever for the tree swallows.

I am not looking forward to it because I know it is going to burn my skin like no allergic reaction I have ever endured before. At the beginning of the Okotoks town council meeting today (Tuesday) I have to pay my tax to Okotoks’ mayor.

The court system of Canada may have been established by acts of parliament over the years since Canada became a confederation, but it needs to be held more accountable for its actions.

Changes to MLAs retirement funds approved last week are a step in the wrong direction. The member services committee, which is dominated by Progressive Conservative MLAs, approved a $17,420 payment for retirement investments per year.

Once again it is time to kick start the Christmas season and Okotoks will be alive with activities this weekend. Friday it starts off with Light Up Okotoks with live performances at the Olde Towne Plaza at 5:30 p.m.