the broken typewriter

Years of Service Award:

Tyla Pennell, Director of Corporate Services received recognition for her years of service at the District of Taylor on Monday.

Pennell was first employed at the District ten years ago as an intern, a position Mayor Brent Taillefer says is not simply filing but one that provides the intern with the opportunity to work in all areas of the municipality.

“Ten years is no small amount of time, so we appreciate that you’ve stuck with us,” Taillefer said. “We appreciate everything you have done for us in the past ten years.”

Pennell said she enjoys working at the District of Taylor and “making positive change for the community.”

Spirit of the Peace Powwow:

Since 2006, the District of Taylor has been home to the Spirit of the Peace Powwow, creating a strong relationship between the municipality and the local indigenous community which come together to celebrate their traditions at the Taylor arena every year.

“I really value our relationship with the District of Taylor, and we’re excited for another powwow,” said Marlene Roy, Spirit of the Peace Powwow Society’s treasurer.

Roy was joined by board member Patsy Greyeyes at the Taylor council meeting on Monday evening to talk about the 2025 Powwow, scheduled for June 13-15 at the Taylor Arena.

Roy said she wants to the take the opportunity at next year’s event to focus on addictions and mental health “because it’s really killing our young people, and I think it’s something that would be nice for us to address.”

Mayor Taillefer said that every time the Powwow Society members come to Taylor’s council meeting, it inspires him to want to do more and learn more about First Nations culture.

Roy and Greyeyes gave Taillefer and the rest of council that opportunity on Monday when they gave them smudge pans and eagle feathers, and Greyeyes gave a brief description of smudging.

“I smudge my eyes, so I see good things; I smudge my mouth, so I speak good words; I smudge my hair, so I hear good things; and I smudge my head, so I have good thoughts,” she said. “I also smudge my feet, so I walk in a good way.”

The eagle feathers, Greyeyes said, hold the spirit of the eagle, so that the eagle sends messages to people, and offers protection.

In addition to cleansing the mind and body through smudging, Greyeyes said that you can also smudge your home, just make sure to leave a door open so that the bad can leave.

Council received these items and information enthusiastically.

“We’re always interested in any kind of education or knowledge that we can receive, and the more of all cultures we know, the better people can understand,” Taillefer said.

Taylor welcomes new CAO:

The District of Taylor’s Director of Community Services has officially moved into a new role with the municipality this week, becoming the new Chief Administrative Officer.

Ryan Galay has called the Peace region home for the last ten years and started out working at Lakepoint Golf & Country Club, first as Associate Professional, the Head Pro and ultimately general manager, before making the move to general manager of Lone Wolf Golf Club in 2019.

Galay has spent the past three years working as the Director of Community Services, while simultaneously earning a Bachelor of Commerce degree, an Associate Certificate in Emergency Management and a certificate for Community Economic Development Professionals and began an Executive Master of Business Administration.

“Ryan is dedicated to fostering collaboration between council, staff and residents to ensure Taylor continues to thrive,” Mayor Brent Taillefer said in a statement announcing Galay’s new role.

“His ability to build strong teams and managing effective operations will be invaluable as we pursue key initiatives that strengthen our town’s growth and quality of life.

“As Mayor, I am confident that Ryan’s innovative approach and passion for community development will help us meet our strategic plan.”