Our sawmill in Drayton Valley was the first business visited by the Oilers delegation after the morning’s opening ceremonies at a local school.
Every year, the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League honor an Alberta community that exemplifies ‘one of the most dedicated and passionate fan bases in the world’ with a day-long Celebrating Oil Country event. An Oilers delegation visits, a televised segment showcasing the community is aired during a game, and the community receives financial support for grassroots hockey development.
Last year, the Oilers selected Drayton Valley, and when the mayor invited a Weyerhaeuser representative to participate in a planning committee for the celebration — which would include Edmonton Oilers alumni and other dignitaries — local Wood Products and Timberlands leaders eagerly accepted.
“Hockey is Canada’s national pastime, akin to football in the United States, so it was a big deal for nearly everyone who lives and works here,” says Kerri MacKay, forestry business systems specialist, who volunteered for the assignment and planned the day’s events alongside other community representatives. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase our community and our company.”
Hockey greats Kevin Lowe, second from the left, and Ben Scrivens, next to Hunter the Lynx, present an honorary jersey (No. 24 for 2024) to Weyerhaeuser representatives Jeff MacKay and Matt Snow.
WELCOME TO DRAYTON VALLEY
Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by forests, Drayton Valley is located southwest of Alberta’s second-largest city, Edmonton, which is a 90-minute drive away and has a metro population of about 1.4 million.
Like many of our operating communities, Drayton Valley is a small town, with a population of just under 8,000. Its economy is tied to four major industries: forestry and forest products; oil and gas; agriculture; and tourism. In fact, our mill and forestry operations employ around 450 employees and contractors, making Weyerhaeuser the largest employer in the region.
“We were excited to welcome Weyerhaeuser on board as part of our planning committee for Drayton Valley’s Oil Country Celebration,” says Mayor Nancy Dodds. “It was such a pleasure planning and visiting with Weyerhaeuser and the Oiler’s Alumni Team, celebrating the strength and collaboration of industry together. We’re grateful for the continued partnership and contributions Weyerhaeuser continues to invest in events and initiatives that build a strong and vibrant community.”
The Celebrating Oil Country events on Nov. 7 included rallies at local schools, businesses and other venues. The entourage featured former Oilers defenseman and Hockey Hall of Famer Kevin Lowe, along with former Oilers goalie Ben Scrivens. They were accompanied by team mascot Hunter the Lynx and the Oilers Orange and Blue Ice Crew, responsible for creating memorable moments for fans both on and off the ice.
“It took about 80 volunteers from across our community to help make the day go smoothly,” Kerri says. “It was an amazing way to bring everyone together to celebrate Drayton Valley.”
This sign, erected on an oil rig along the main highway into town, welcomed the Oilers delegation the morning of their visit and remained in place for several days after they left.
A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
For Kerri, one of the most moving parts of the day was witnessing the joy on so many faces, from elderly citizens to schoolchildren to our employees. Our sawmill was one of the first stops, and the Oilers delegation received a warm welcome from members of our Wood Products and Timberlands teams.
“Over the last few years, I’ve seen this community flourish with its ‘Small Town Big Life’ mentality, reflected in the community events around town,” says Garlyn Pyzda, maintenance supervisor. “With the Weyerhaeuser family being a big part of this celebration, it shows how important we are to this community and the impact we make.”
After visiting our mill, the Oilers delegation continued on to other local businesses, schools, senior centers and community venues, and then they ended the day-long tour fittingly with a ceremonial puck drop at a local Junior A-level hockey game.
“There were 1,100 people at a game that usually attracts about 200,” Kerri says.
A NIGHT TO CELEBRATE DRAYTON VALLEY
Just a few days later, on November 14, attention turned to Rogers Place arena in Edmonton as the Oilers competed against the Nashville Predators. A brief video showcasing the Drayton Valley tour aired during the game, both live in the arena and on the TV broadcast.
“It was great to be part of the event and to see our forestry industry celebrated alongside other businesses and community members,” says Shae Spence, Timberlands operations supervisor. “It brought everyone together and was a great way to showcase the spirit of our community.”
