I am a lifelong resident of Red Deer and our family has been here since the 1920s. I have always enjoyed the pictures of the Westerner Day’s “arrested” families and seeing them in the parade. It is a fun and worthwhile promotion for Red Deer. However, a recent experience in our city has left me embarrassed.
Our family recently spent five weeks in the Westerner Campground between possession dates of our previous and new home.
We have many years experience with campgrounds all over B.C. and Alberta and I was saddened by the lack of congeniality offered to it’s countless out of town visitors.
We met great folks from Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan and the U.S. and their comments assured me I wasn’t the only one feeling this way.
It is not an issue with campground rules but the general attitude and lack of warmth. Also, we have never been required to give a $300 damage deposit at a campground before.
In addition to the Arrest a Guest program, I feel the city would be wise to offer hospitality training to the Westerner Campground owners and hosts.
We are missing out on a great opportunity to warmly welcome guests who have chosen to visit and spend their hard-earned dollars in our city.
Tracy Munro Bourassa
Red Deer
