Who is Fort Macleod’s 2018 New Year’s baby?
That’s the question the Fort Macleod Chamber of Commerce wants to answer by the end of the month.
The Chamber’s New Year’s Baby contest will reward the baby and parents with a selection of gifts.
“The Chamber knows that people are interested in the town’s New Year’s baby, and take pride in that special person,” Chamber past president Emily McTighe said. “We want to help the parents — and the community — celebrate the little one’s special arrival.”
The New Year’s baby contest was on the agenda of the Chamber’s monthly meeting Thursday at the office of Vanee Livestock.
The Chamber has long organized the New Year’s baby contest.
Businesses are asked to donate gifts that would be awarded to the family of the first child born in the new calendar year.
The Chamber was traditionally notified by local hospitals about the first birth of the year.
Alberta Health Services stopped that practice seven years ago, citing privacy issues.
The Chamber of Commerce now will ask people to provide the family name, contact information and time and date of the birth of potential New Year’s babies.
Parents must have a Fort Macleod mailing address to be eligible.
People can call Chamber administrative assistant Ashley Nelson at 403-715-2125 or send the information to fmchamber1888@gmail.com.
The Chamber will accept nominations until Wednesday, Jan. 31.
Businesses interested in providing a gift for the New Year’s baby and family are asked to drop their donations off at the Chamber office on Main Street or The Macleod Gazette office by Wednesday, Jan. 31.
In previous years gifts have included items such as a bassinet; a bunting bag and blanket; bath supplies; Winnie the Pooh ornaments, hat, bib and slippers; diapers and baby wipes; a photo album; a Teddy Bear and T-shirt; gift certificates and a framed photo.
“We’re optimistic the business community will be generous,” McTighe said. “It would be nice for Fort Macleod to welcome its first baby of the year with a nice collection of gifts.”