Dreams are the beginning
Published June 8, 2005
"When you wish upon a star . . ." these were the words that marked the conclusion of a Grade six Ardrossan Elementary student's comments when he shared his dream for a skateboard park in the hamlet of Ardrossan. Without a dream, Strathcona would not be the destination of choice for thousands of residents and visitors.
Just last week I received a call from an Edmonton resident who wanted to know how to get tickets to the Josephburg Chicken supper and what other activities in the County he and his family could take in, he just wanted new experiences within minutes of Edmonton. At the Strathcona Country Classic, a high point of the evening was the chance to sample hors'dourves made from local products.
There are limitless opportunities to attract tourists, it all starts with a dream. With an idea there are companies that can help make those dreams a reality. The Lamont-Two Hills Business Development Corporation (LTHBDC) can assist with business plans and loans to "make it happen" for businesses that choose to set up in the County outside the Urban Services area of Sherwood Park. Art Lange and I are Strathcona's appointed members to the Board of LTHBDC. The corporation has leant money for flower shops, greenhouses, restaurants, sign companies, truck washes, construction companies and bed and breakfasts, just to name a few.
The Agriculture Policy framework, a federal/provincial territorial initiative, has compiled an overview of alternative agricultural markets in Alberta. Regional Cuisine, Farmers' Markets, farm direct sales and agri-tourism opportunities top the lists. If we can dream it, grow it, market it, the growth potential and economic impact can be an asset to our community.
Whether it is corn mazes, art studios or flying workers from the Josephburg airport to Fort McMurrary, no idea should be discounted. For more information contact my office or the LTHBDC directly at (780) 657-3512 or LTHBDC@telusplanet.net to follow in the steps of our entrepreneurial students.
Jacquie Fenske
Councillor, Ward 5
464-8147
fenske@strathcona.ab.ca
Last updated: Thursday, March 25, 2010
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