Community strategies meeting at Sedalia Hall

By Joan Janzen

A community strategies meeting was held at the Sedalia Community Hall, Saturday afternoon, March 18th. Approximately 75 people came out for the meeting, ranging in age from those in their 20’s up to senior aged individuals. Many travelled for more than an hour to get there, coming from Medicine Hat, Oyen, Cereal, and as far as Lloydminster and Saskatoon. Both urban and rural dwellers were represented.

The meeting focussed on the topic of community. Connie and Dan Harder from Medicine Hat spoke at the meeting. Dan is a retired lawyer, who recently helped his daughter start Homestead Markets on the outskirts of Medicine Hat. The market supplies locally produced products and locally grown food; it’s what their family is passionate about providing.
The three keys Dan talked about that make community living worthwhile were: relationships, communication and planning.

Connie Ness, who attended the meeting, gave an overview of topics which were discussed during the afternoon. “Alternatives to growing our own food, such as grow towers and greenhouses were mentioned,” she said. “As well as how we can help each other in the community to attain the necessary equipment needed.” Food storage methods, such as freeze drying and dehydration were talked about.

The importance and health benefits of natural and organic foods were topics of interest, which also included healing plants, medicinal herbs and real raw foods. Emergency measures were also brought forward.

“Considerations regarding what to do in case power outages were mentioned,” Connie said. “It was also suggested we be aware of skills offered in our communities, such as local nurses and first aid, in cases of emergency.”

There was a lot of discussion during the question and answer segment. People wanted to know where they could begin, since they have never done this before. They asked how they could begin connecting with their community to build a safety net. They also asked when the next meeting would be held.

“Everyone seemed to agree that preparation plans need to be made; there was a very positive response,” Connie said.

While many of these groups are already established in other regions, it’s hoped that more groups will be established in Alberta and Saskatchewan. “But it’s a good idea to stay connected with other groups, because they can benefit from additional ideas,” Connie mentioned.

The community strategies meeting will be held once a month, in an effort to provide security in emergency situations. “It’s a group effort, and not something anybody can do alone,” Connie concluded.