Commentary by Chris Clegg
While browsing through an edition of the now defunct Northern Echo newspaper, I came across a 1947 article from Kinuso, written by Vin Rice. It talked about the formation of the Kwitcherbelliaken group.
How cool is that for a name? Quit your belly-aching! Kwitcherbelliaken! Awesome!
Mrs. Somerville, with the help of Messrs. W.H. Lysne and C. Eckhardt were involved in its formation. They led a group of school-age boys and girls and formed the club. Many activities were planned and the group elected an executive to oversee matters. I can only assume these three were teachers, but I cannot confirm what I assume.
The formation of the group is a great lesson. The boys and girls were probably complaining one day there was nothing to do. So, to be blunt, with the help of the three adults, they were told to get off their butts and do something about it by forming a structured organization.
And they did!
Odd how some things never change. Probably in each community, people have complained there is nothing to do. When that occurs, you can do one of two things. You can complain or “quit your belly-aching” and do something about it.
Joining a club and organizing activities can be very rewarding. There is satisfaction in seeing a job well done and knowing you contributed to its success.
Clubs or organizations can be formed to entertain their members only, or branch out to provide enjoyment and activities for the public. Cubs, Scouts, and Girl Guides offer training and goals for their members to attain.
Adult clubs like the Elks, Royal Purple and Lions do valued community service, providing events and/or donations for those in need. Rather than complain, they do something about it.
People who complain are not all bad. Many times, the suggestions offered do have some merit. The affected group can become angry or they can take the suggestion positively and do something about it. It is a fine line but each organization must fine-tune its events for them to continue to be successful. Unfortunately, at times, improvements can cost a lot of money and may not be feasible. Fundraising can be a challenge.
These were likely all lessons the girls and boys belonging to Kwitcherbelliaken learned at a young age. I hope the lessons learned served them well in their later years. I hope some of them became members of the Elks, Legion, Royal Purple, chamber of commerce, etc.
Years ago, I served on a voluntary health advisory board. When we were told we had to disband by the former Peace Country Health, we had to come up with a new name. Chair George Keay put me in charge. I came up with Serious Health Issue Team Disturbers. The acronym was unsuitable but I had to have my fun!
If you have the time, please consider joining a group. I have over 35 years involvement with the North Peace Hockey League, did work for the All Peace Minor Hockey League, local High Prairie fastball leagues, health advisory health committee, High Prairie Museum Board, High Prairie Community Beautification Association, and more. Each presents a different challenge and each presents a different headache.
But each offers its rewards and the opportunity to “quit your belly-aching” and do something to make the community better. Were any of these organizations perfect? No! But at least we tried!