Colleagues, a resident of Fort Simpson, David Berman, has a family heirloom being donated to the children of Liidli Kue Elementary School. David's mother, Carole Berman, purchased a 1974 Yamaha grand piano nearly 45 years ago. She always enjoyed playing the piano and recounting that her and her four sisters studied music from a very young age in Winnipeg, as her parents believed that creative arts were just as important as academics.
As she matured and started a family of her own, she purchased her prized possession and began teaching piano. This gave her a chance to earn a little money while still looking after her three young children. On top of this, it helped keep her grounded and surrounded with the beauty of music whenever she wanted. Dave and his brothers had very fond memories of waking up in the morning to their mother playing classical music.
Carole played with several different ensembles and symphonies within Edmonton but her real passion was teaching others to play. She spent over 20 years teaching young youth to play the piano, and she spent her life creating music and helping others learn the craft. Once her children were old enough, Carole went back to University of Alberta to earn a law degree. Although she spent the rest of her working career within the law field, she continued to make time to perform and help others learn to play.
When David moved to Fort Simpson in 2022 and began to work at the elementary school, Carole would come to visit him and fell in love with the community and its children. She loved to spend time at the school, and it was because of the children's spirit and joy.
Suddenly and very recently, Carole fell ill with cancer and her plans to retire soon and move to Fort Simpson had to change. She is currently undergoing treatment to help extend her life and has been told she has not much longer to live. She is now moving to an assisted living home within Calgary to be closer to her other two sons. As she has been assisting her children to find homes for her worldly possessions, she requested that her beloved piano be donated to the children in the North, as she referred to them affectionately.
David began working with the principal and the DDEC to get the piano North. I am happy to say the piano is currently on its way to its new home. She and her family hope that this beautiful instrument will bring joy to the musical hearts of the Fort Simpson children. I am happy to say that I got to know her, whether it was on flights to Fort Simpson or when I met her in the community. She is an amazing individual and with a golden heart. Thank you very much. Thank you, Carole.
Members' statements. Colleagues, before we get into the next part, I'd like to recognize Dottie Tetso, a former resident of Fort Simpson. She moved here just recently. We sadly miss her but welcome to our Assembly.
