Proclamations

Recreation and Parks Month

June 2018

• WHEREAS, in Alberta, we are fortunate to have a variety of recreation and parks, systems providing counties recreational opportunities for residents and visitors from around the world;

• WHEREAS, recreation enhances quality of life, balanced living and lifelong learning; helps people live happier and longer; develops skills and positive self-image in children and youth; develops creativity; and builds healthy bodies and positive lifestyles;

• WHEREAS, recreation participation builds family unity and social capital; strengthens volunteers and community development; enhances social interaction; creates community pride and vitality; and promotes sensitivity and understanding to cultural diversity;

• WHEREAS, recreation, therapeutic recreation and leisure education are essential to the rehabilitation of individuals who have become ill or disabled, or disadvantaged, or who have demonstrated antisocial behavior;

• WHEREAS, the benefits provided by recreation and parks programs and services reduce healthcare and social service costs; serve to boost the economy, economic renewal and sustainability; enhance property values, attract new business; increase tourism; and curb employee absenteeism;

• WHEREAS, connecting children with nature is critical to their health, development and well-being, builds future environmental stewards, and promotes the sustainability of our natural spaces and environment;

• WHEREAS, our parks, open space and trails ensure ecological beauty; provide space to enjoy nature; help maintain clean air and water; and preserve plan and animal wildlife;

• WHEREAS, all levels of government, the voluntary sector and private enterprise throughout the Province participate in planning, development and operation of recreation and parks program, services and facilities;

NOW, THEREFORE, Parkland County Council do hereby proclaim that June be designated as Recreation and Parks month in Parkland County. 

National Health and Fitness Day 

June 2, 2018

• WHEREAS, the Parliament of Canada wishes to increase awareness among Canadians of the significant benefits of physical activity and to encourage Canadians to increase their level of physical activity and their participation in recreational sports and fitness activities;

• WHEREAS, it is in Canada’s interest to improve the health of all Canadians and to reduce the burden of illness on Canadian families and on the Canadian health care system;

• WHEREAS, many local governments in Canada have public facilities to promote the health and fitness of their citizens;

• WHEREAS, the Government of Canada wishes to encourage local governments to facilitate Canadian’s participation in healthy physical activities;

• WHEREAS, the Government of Canada wishes to encourage the country’s local governments, non-government organizations, the private sector and all Canadians to recognize the first Saturday in June as National Health and Fitness Day and to mark the day with local events and initiatives celebrating and promoting the important and use of local health, recreational, sports and fitness facilities;

• WHEREAS, Canada’s mountains, oceans, lakes, forest, parks and wilderness also offer recreational and fitness opportunities;

• WHEREAS, Canadian Environment Week is observed throughout the country in early June, and walking and cycling are great ways to reduce vehicle pollution and improve physical fitness;

• WHEREAS, declaring the first Saturday in June to be National Health and Fitness Day will further encourage Canadians to participate in physical activities and contribute to their own health and well-being;

NOW, THEREFORE, Parkland County Council do hereby proclaim June 2, 2018 as National Health & Fitness Day in Parkland County.

Seniors' Week

June 3-9, 2018

• WHEREAS, we recognize that seniors have made, and continue to make, many contributions to strengthen our province, our towns, our communities, and our daily lives;

• WHEREAS, seniors are a vital part of our families, giving generously of their wisdom, experience and love;

• WHEREAS, more seniors are independent and active, and by challenging the stereotypes of aging, are leading the way for future seniors;

• WHEREAS, a more positive attitude toward aging is creating new opportunities for seniors;

• WHEREAS, we must honour seniors for their skills, knowledge, experience and leadership;

• WHEREAS, it is appropriate that a special week be set aside to celebrate with seniors;

NOW, THEREFORE, Parkland County Council do hereby proclaim the week of June 3, 2018 to be Senior’s Week, and we call upon everyone in Parkland County and area to join in celebration of seniors to recognize the valuable contributions of seniors.

River Day

June 9, 2018

• WHEREAS, Parkland County is a shareholding member of the River Valley Alliance;

• WHEREAS, Parkland County is dedicated to preserving, protecting and enhancing the North Saskatchewan River Valley;

• WHEREAS, Parkland County is contributing to the development of a world class river valley park system with park upgrades, trail development and awareness activities;

NOW, THEREFORE, Parkland County Council do hereby proclaim Saturday, June 9, 2018 as River Day and encourage residents to get out and enjoy activities in our North Saskatchewan River Valley.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

June 15, 2018

• WHEREAS, most abuse and neglect of older adults is hidden;

• WHEREAS, age discrimination is a major cause of abuse and neglect of older adults;

• WHEREAS, empowering older persons is the most effective tool in the response to abuse and neglect in later life; 

• WHEREAS, through intergenerational relationships, the social isolation and neglect of older adults can be broken;

NOW, THEREFORE, Parkland County Council do hereby proclaim June 15, 2018 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.  Together we can prevent abuse of older adults.