The Town of Sylvan Lake has asked its residents to join the wolf pack in support of essential workers and to foster community spirit.
Residents are encouraged to look at the clock at 7 p.m. on Saturdays and open a window or step outside to let out a howl.
Jared Waldo, Sylvan Lake’s culture and tourism supervisor, says the idea came from a town employee who witnessed a similar experience while studying in Sweden.
“She was explaining that her student dorm would howl every week as a way to kind of keep connected and present with each other,” said Waldo.
“For us, it was just something to try and do, kind of see how we could get people involved.”
Waldo said the weekly howl is for everyone, regardless of age, and is an informal shout out to those who provide essential services, such as health-care workers, truck drivers and grocery store employees.
“It’s an opportunity for us to signal to them that we care about you, we appreciate you more than you know, and if you can hear us from any part of town, that is our way of connecting to you and saying thank you,” said Waldo.
Hearing the howls from all over town helps the community feel united and realize they’re all in this together, he added.
Lastly, the howl can serve as an outlet to release pent-up frustration and energy, said Waldo, adding the town thought Saturday nights were a good time to step out, have fun and let loose.
Participants can make whatever noise they want, whether it’s a howl, a scream or a cheer.