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Harrison Happenings: Good news abounds every day in Harrison area

'It was great to see so much energy' on stage says columnist Altendorf
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Cutline: Kent elementary school students wrote

On Apr. 6, a Saturday afternoon, I went with some of my friends to see a musical, presented by the Kent Elementary Drama Club at the Harrison Hot Springs Memorial Hall and I am glad I did.

It was the story of two families, the Citrons and the Violets, who overcame their adversaries and made friends instead — a universal story, written by Greg Mills and Katie, one of the students. Before the play began, one of my friends looked at the program and said: "Now, why can we not do something like this?"

"Just watch them and you will know," I answered. At which point I should explain that, "we" were a bunch of elderly seniors belonging to, or are friends of, the local choir.

I was right! These young people not only did they act, dance and sing, they also made and exchanged all the props, adjusted their mikes and also made sure that they themselves were on stage at the right time. It was very impressive! It was great to see so much energy and I hope that the donations they received made a good contribution towards the Grade 6's Outdoor Camp at Camp Squeah, as intended.

On Sunday morning, I went to my neighbour, Elizabeth, to see what her "Clothing Swap Tables" had to offer. Trust her and her friends to make the yoga studio look much like a boutique store with lots of clothing, etc. to choose from. With no money involved, it was a shopper's paradise!  Whatever was left will go to charity, so it was not only fun, but a win/win situation all around and I have not even mentioned the environmental impact of it.

Good news stories, big and small. happened all around us lately. There was the $1.2 million grant towards the building of a new water treatment plant, necessary to keep our water clean and healthy.  With the month of April being nationally identified with the fight against cancer, the announcement could not have come at a better time!

Next, a long time dream about a regional park in our east sector, just might come true in the near future!  The 92 hectare park that not only protects the "old growth " section, but also adds yet another superb hiking location to our area, another attraction to guests from all over the world who come here to hike and explore.

Last Saturday, Apr. 13 was the day for the Monday Painters Art Show, taking place at the Agassiz United Church. I hope many of you had a chance to visit the show which is always inspiring and beautiful, showcasing the talented artists in our area.

Though many gardeners have already started to get their gardens into shape, April is the prime time to plant and groom. With many nurseries, large and small, around us, it is one of the joys of spring to choose and buy plants of every size, shape and colour. Not to forget the Tulip Festival which started this weekend and runs until the blooms are gone!

There is one event,  however, many people, including my friends are eagerly waiting for: It is the re-opening of Minter Gardens on Sunday, Apr.14! They will all be there, buying their season tickets - a real bargain, especially if you visit the gardens as often as they do.

"The gardens keep us young," Renate, who organizes these walks, declares.  "It is a good thing for the body, the mind and soul!"

But she does not stop there as every other month she organizes a birthday lunch at the Trillium Restaurant at Minter Gardens to celebrate the various birthdays which either just happened or are due during that period of time. Though Renate loves to do this, a big thank you is in order.

And now I will close these "good new stories" with best wishes to Renate who herself just turned 80, (Can you believe it?) as well as to all other birthday people!