Fall Trade Show - Southeast Alberta Chamber of Commerce has scheduled the Brooks trade show for the first weekend in October, which will complement the spring trade show in Medicine Hat. They hope to attract attendees from both areas by offering them as a package deal, boosting participation and engagement. The Brooks trade show will take place at the JBS Canada Center Oct. 4-7.

Safe Communities Committee recently received the Excellence in Municipal Enforcement Award. This recognition highlights their collaborative efforts involving the City, County, Municipal Enforcement, RCMP, and the community. Their innovative approach to public communication through active engagement on social media was commended. Additionally, their initiatives with youth, including the Police Academy, were recognized for promoting safety awareness and career opportunities. The committee's inclusive approach, involving public members, was also praised.

Brooks Smoker Wars will host their third annual event at the CRA on June 13 and 14. Last year, approximately 60 competitors participated in the event and fed over 700 people. This year it is estimated that 35-40% of the competitors will be from out of town. This event raised over $20,000 last year which was donated to local organizations including the Aarit Hok Pediatric Fund, Senior's Outreach, BAPS, Cleo's Karma Canine Rescue and the Brooks Dog Park. The City donated the use of the CRA for the event in exchange for a donation to a City-funded project (e.g. Brooks Dog Park) in an amount equivalent to the cost of a facility rental. The same request has been made for this year's event.

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Social Impact Lab started the process to launch The Brooks Design Lab in October 2022. Following community conversations and observations, a group of 19 community leaders known as "social impact lab champions" meet. A Cultural Festival was selected to move forward. “An event that brings people together to learn about and experience the various cultures in Brooks. Representation matters, and we want to encourage belonging through culturally led, experiential learning.” Exploring the feasibility of the event revealed activities resembling the festival already exist so alternative options will be explored. There is a strong interest among participants to engage further in this endeavour. The SIL is asking for a City staff member to attend the five sessions, to help move the work forward in a way that will be sustainable, impactful, and create a shared sense of belonging for all in Brooks. The SIL AB has generously committed $10,000 towards this initiative.

Chamber Brooks-Newell Business Mixer - Connecting local businesses with supporting organizations. You will have the opportunity to connect with people from organizations that support businesses in varying ways and network with other business owners and entrepreneurs. The team is working hard to show Brooks that the Southeast Chamber is serious about being active and supporting our area to the best of its ability! May 15th, 6:00-8:00PM at the Heritage Inn Hotel and Convention Centre in the Atrium. Tickets can be purchased by clicking HERE.

County Municipal Planning Commission approved an off-grid cabin experience similar to a campground. Safety measures and privacy enhancements include an 11 pm quiet time and planting 200 new trees. Individual cabins won't have cooking appliances, instead, there will be a communal kitchen and fire area. Solar panels will be installed on the cabins' roofs. The permit is for 3 cabins only, potential future expansion would require a new permit.

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