Students ‘get real'
Don't be surprised this week if the area's teenagers are giving more hugs, thinking of others more or engaging in more random acts of kindness.
It could be the result of the Get Real program conducted at the Sundre High School last week with the Grade 9s, says program executive director Wendy Walker.
Billed as a social responsibility course, Get Real is a tested brain – based, motivational, educational and experiential day-long rewarding program for Grades 7 – 12 that demonstrates the power of acceptance and respect for others by promoting self-acceptance and self-respect.
Program officials say the course helps to ignite participants' passions and empowers them to take their positions as positive leaders in their communities.
“The impact? We just see a big change in the community when they're done. We believe you're not alone, that you're part of a big community and that there are responsibilities,” Walker said.
Instruction throughout the week focused on self respect and respect of others, she said.
After each lesson, students spend time modelling what they have learned.
Volunteers helped carry out the program throughout the week, including some who had been part of the program as a teenager and are now adults interested in getting the program's message out.
Walker told the story of a woman who was once scared of children and who, after experiencing the Get Real program, is now known for routinely engaging them in hugs.
- Smaldon
Smoke advisory issued
Due to prescribed burn activity taking place in the Red Deer River Valley, Alberta Health Services issued a precautionary fire smoke advisory for the Sundre area Friday.
Other areas put on alert for the Sept. 24 and 25 burn were Olds, Cremona, Water Valley, Carstairs and Didsbury.
Health officials said should the wind forecast shift, the communities of Rocky Mountain House and Caroline could also be affected.
AHS staff say prescribed burns ensure smoke is managed more effectively than wildfires; however, smoke conditions in surrounding communities can vary depending on current weather conditions and prevailing winds.
Although minor smoke conditions do not typically cause health concerns in most healthy individuals, if smoke conditions become more severe, even healthy individuals may experience irritation of eyes, throat and possibly shortness of breath, AHS advised.
- Smaldon
