Branch News – January 2025

Branch No. 57 Camrose proudly begins 2025 mortgage-free! Through years of diligent budgeting, continuous fundraisers, and overwhelming member support, especially during the challenges of COVID-19, the branch successfully paid off a mortgage that once stood at $120,000. A pivotal moment came when the Ladies’ Auxiliary contributed $20,000 to accelerate the payoff.

(Left to right) Camrose branch of the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary president Grace Torpe, Legion treasurer Barb Steinman and Branch President Adrian Zinck wrote an $18,014 cheque to Vision Credit Union to pay off the mortgage for the Legion facility.

Camrose branch of the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary president Grace Torpe, left, burns the mortgage under safe conditions with veteran Bill Hart applauding the procedure in the background.

Branch No. 35 Red Deer continues its heartwarming tradition of creating and delivering handmade Christmas cards, a cherished initiative led by Linda, Debi, Ann Winegardner, Leslie R., and their dedicated team. For 19 years, the Winegardner family has played a key role in this effort, crafting over 800 cards each year to bring holiday cheer to Veterans and seniors across the Red Deer community. This meaningful volunteer tradition underscores the Red Deer Legion’s enduring commitment to supporting Veterans and seniors.

Christa Cote and Jim Bourgoin
Red Deer Legion volunteers Christa Cote and Jim Bourgoin help deliver the handmade Christmas cards to spread joy and kindness.

Josette Kelly and Edna Rosted
(Left to right) Josette Kelly and Edna Rosted gratefully received their cards.

Debi Winegardner
Debi Winegardner is pictured personally delivering cards, continuing her family’s long-standing tradition of giving back.

Branch No. 35 Red Deer supports the local Army, Air, and Sea Cadet programs with generous donations. Presenting the donations to the cadets were President Art Burgess, 2nd Vice President Ray Stuart, and Executive Member Lee Matheson. The cadets, who volunteer at the branch throughout the year, play an integral role in supporting the Legion’s mission and fostering community spirit.

24 Red Deer Air Cadet Squadron
(Left to right) 24 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron Captain Stefn Dodman, CD – Commanding Officer 24 RCACS, C/WO2 John Gonzales, C/WO2 Alex Boyles, C/WO2 Fahd Mohamed, C/WO1 Kiyanna Tam, Red Deer Branch President Art Burgess, Executive Member Lee Matheson, and 2nd Vice President Ray Stuart.

1390 Army
(Left to right) 1390 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps Captain Sarah Robert, CD – Commanding Officer 1390 RCACC, Cadet Eric Francis, C/CWO Nash Baker, Red Deer Branch President Art Burgess, Executive Member Lee Matheson, and 2nd Vice President Ray Stuart.

126 Red Deer Sea Cadets
(Left to right) 126 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps C/CPO2 Calvin Cunningham, Red Deer Legion Branch Executive Member Lee Matheson, President Art Burgess, Captain Eryn Beddoes, CD – Commanding Officer 126 RCSCC, and 2nd Vice President Ray Stuart.

Branch No. 239 Fort Smith proudly recognized its Remembrance Day contest winners at the JBT Elementary School at their December 13th assembly. Pictured with the winners is Fort Smith Branch President Westley Steed.

Branch No. 239 Fort Smith
Branch President Westley Steed (back row, left) with Remembrance Day contest winners at the JBT Elementary School.

Branch No. 288 Airdrie donated $10,000 to the Bethany Care Centre to enhance accessibility for Veterans and seniors. The funds, presented to administrator Shelley Rolfe on Dec. 10, will help improve the patio space, including the installation of a new accessible door. This donation, made possible through the Legion’s gaming fund, reflects the branch’s commitment to supporting veterans, their families, and the broader community.

Branch No. 288
Back Row L-R: Airdrie representative Bob McNevin; President Keith Shaw; Bethany Airdrie administrator Shelley Rolfe; Bethany’s senior development officer Heidi Lambie; 2nd Vice President Jasen Hoffman; and 1st Vice President Bill Drummond.