One hundred years after the poppy became the national symbol of Remembrance Day, the Royal Canadian Legion has launched its annual national Poppy Campaign.

Here in Cochrane, the first poppy was presented to Mayor Jeff Genung by Karen Bruens, Branch #15 president and district commander, on Oct. 28. The campaign went wide open the following day.

Poppies are now available for purchase at numerous businesses across the community. There will be volunteers manning tables on weekends at Mark's No Frills, Canadian Tire, Safeway, Walmart, and Save-on-Foods.

Wreaths are currently being sold that will be laid at the Community Cenotaph on Nov. 11. Those wanting a wreath can drop by the Legion or phone 403-932-2011.

All donations made locally remain in the Cochrane area to support veterans. It also assists two cadet units.

"Those funds cannot be used for our Legion expenses," explains Bruens. "They are used for veterans and their families. So, if a veteran comes to us and needs help, then we deal with it at the local level. If it's something beyond the local level, then we make sure they have the footprint for where they need to go."

More people will be able to attend the outdoors Remembrance Day Service this year. The ceremony starts at 10:45 a.m. sharp. Those in attendance are asked to wear marks and practice social distancing. Seating is available for veterans only.

Those unable or uncomfortable with attending in person can once again be able to watch live streaming of the ceremony on Urban Casual and the Royal Canadian Legion social media channels.

For the second time, there won't be indoor formalities in advance of the outdoor ceremony.

Community rallies behind bottle drive

A grassroots bottle drive in support of the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion has once again proven successful.

The week-long drive saw $869.50 worth of empty bottles and $50 cash donated for a total of $919.50.

Organizer Paul Singh thanks the public for once again supporting the local Legion.

Legion president Karen Bruens was visibly moved by the donation. 

"A donation to the Legion like this is fantastic," says Bruens. "We know businesses and people are going through hard times with COVID with things being shut down and people not being able to do what they normally do, so this is just great. This will help us keep the building going, keep the doors open, and every little bit helps. We're so thankful."

Bottle drive donationPaul Singh presents Legion president Karen Bruens with the $919.50 raised from a grassroots bottle drive in support of the local Legion branch.