Although it has been a shortened hockey season, Jamie Booth, Parks and Arena Manager, shared with me it’s been a success.
The Emo LaVallee Arena has been opened for hockey games since January 26.
Once the doors opened, the arena became busy – really busy. The hockey season that used to be played in two and a half months has been congested into one and a half months. Hockey is played seven days a week and then accommodating all the tournaments made for a hustle for Jamie and his nephew Matt Booth, who has recently been hired as Parks and Arena labourer.
I asked Jamie how he thinks the kids playing in Emo Minor Hockey are doing? He feels they are doing great, though perhaps the younger players had to relearn some of their skills, having missed almost two seasons. The Northwest Health Unit recommended anyone under 12 not play. This was in December, and the EDBMHA decided this was a good idea. Therefore, some kids lost a month of hockey during this time.
Booth shared with me that the Covid restrictions involve cleaning each dressing room thoroughly after each use and of course wiping and cleaning throughout the arena.
There’s also screening, during which everyone who enters must show proof of vaccination at the door. You often see Jamie or Matt doing this but also anyone associated with the facility and town workers are also able to screen.
Some hockey players chose not to sign up for hockey this year, making the numbers down quite a bit.
Jamie is no stranger to hockey as he played hockey as a youth and young adult. He also coached the teams that his sons Parker and Reed played on for many years. However his new position at the arena, which he’s been in since May, doesn’t leave a lot of time to coach. I’m sure many hockey players miss this as I’ve heard from many that he is a great coach.
Booth did share with me the Emo hockey association is fortunate to have a large number of coaches this year.
All in all, Booth is enjoying the season. He feels most people involved with hockey are pleased to be back.
The season ends March 25. Booth is hoping Covid restrictions will be lessened by next year, but whatever happens, he “will take the new normal” in his stride, and make the best out of whatever happens, to make sure the next hockey season is the best it can be!
Guthrie United in Devlin and Knox United in Emo will be starting up indoor church services on March 6.
Devlin Services are at 9:45 a.m. and Emo at 11 p.m. It was shared with me from a member of the congregation that she’s so happy for the opening. Especially with Easter upon us.
People who are planning on attending the services are asked to self monitor and if your not feeling well, please stay home.
The March break for students is March 14 to March 18.
Sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Don Anness. A kind, quiet man, always with a hello when you saw him.
Also sympathy to the family and friends of Clarence Ducharme, a long time resident of Emo. He will be remembered by many.
Sending thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Delores Nanie-Braddick. This friendly lady always had a big smile that filled a room with joy.
Sympathy also to the family and friends of Don Brown. Leaving many to mourn his passing.
Our community sends all the families care and concern during these sad losses.
A correction I’d like to make is that the Beer and Burger night at the Emo Legion is $6 not $5, which I have printed in my previous news. Still an amazing deal!
Here’s hoping that activities in our district start up soon, when they do please contact me if you wish it to be announced in my column. 271-3568.
Robin’s 2 cents
60 May be the new 40.
But the $100 bill is now the new $20
