Cardinal began his new role in early December 2012. While he grew up in Sherbrooke, Que., he is no stranger to the west. Cardinal has a degree in biology and starting in 2005 he moved to Alberta as a field assistant conducting an important mountain goat study for two summers near Grand Cache. Last year he was an intern for the Foothills Research Institute out of Hinton working in a grizzly bear program. During his time in the west he grew very fond of the mountains and Jasper in particular.
“I decided to move here because I like the mountains and nature,” said Cardinal, who is an avid skier and climber.
When he saw the posted job for coordonnateur, he could not pass up the opportunity to live and work in the mountains. Soon after accepting the position, Cardinal was put right to work as Jasper in January was right around the corner. He has been busy ever since.
So what does a cultural co-ordinator do?
“Well, I’m the only employee of the association,” said Cardinal with a grin. “I do pretty much everything to run the show, basically.” He explained that the association is mostly run by volunteers. Cardinal takes direction from the volunteer committee and then organizes and sets up events, such as the evening French language classes which were recently offered in Jasper. Cardinal says that the local ACFA has a strong and dynamic group of volunteers that help out when needed.
While Jasper in January is in the past the ACFA continues to plan events throughout the year. Coming on March 9 residents can anticipate the annual “cabane 脿 sucre” or sugar shack. Besides the traditional snow taffy treats and traditional meal, Cardinal is excited about the musical talent this year. Canadian grand master fiddle champion for 2011, Daniel Gervais, will be coming to Jasper to entertain those attending this year’s event.
Also in March is Les Rendezvous de la Francophonie, the annual celebration of French language and culture. During the month of March the Franco-Albertan flag, a combination of the French Fleur-de-lis and the Albertan Wild Rose, will fly next to the Canadian flag.
Cardinal says he is open to suggestions as far as other activities the ACFA can organize in the community. Other projects he plans to attend to include updating the ACFA Facebook page in order to reach as many people as possible. Of course the biggest event he is looking forward to is moving into their new office at the new library complex.
Currently ACFA membership is in the vicinity of 150 to 160, with an average of 200 in any given year.
For more information about the ACFA, events or membership please contact Cardinal at 780-852-7476. or by email [email protected]. You can also visit their website at
