During most Annual General Meetings you would probably be forgiven for snoring in the corner, but things were different at the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum and Archive (JYMA) AGM where there was a Superman director, with shirt and all, a brainiac award, more cake than the Bear’s Paw Bakery and even an archaeologist showing off his findings.

Financially, the museum fared well in 2008, according to treasurer Fred Kofin, but there was still a strong focus on the museum raising funds throughout the year to keep afloat. However, membership fees for the museum will stay the same for 2009.

JYMA manager Karen Byers said that while they were “a little weary about the economy” they had hope that despite the economic situation museums would do well as they are a “moderately-priced” option for tourists and residents.

While Byers took meeting attendees on a trip through a year in the life of the museum, which highlighted the hard work and endless dedication of volunteers, staff, and Byers herself, she also looked forward to the three major exhibits coming to the JYMA.

One exhibit will commemorate the Warden centennial celebrations and an exhibit on Stan Carr, who was a guide and outfitter in the Valemount/Wilmore area which is being curated by his family. 

As well, JMYA will borrow five artifacts from the Royal Alberta Museum for the summer that are from the Earl of Southesk’s trip through the surrounding area some 150 years ago. 

With the departure of Warren Waxer, who was dubbed “super-director” by the employees and directors of the JYMA, there was also a new addition to the board of directors with local Jake Derksen joining. Byers said his new blood was “a good shot in the arm” for the museum.

For those wanting to get involved in the museum, Byers said the upcoming mini-outings each month were a good way to do it.

Before the meeting was over, archaeologist Aaron Osicki, who worked on the TMX Anchor Loop Project, presented some of his findings, showing the importance of keeping even the smallest of clues that people come across within Jasper National Park.

His presentation focused on a couple  of sites he worked on during the project and demonstrated the vast array of material that was found, including evidence relating to the Swift Dump Site – which was the dumping ground for materials from the Swift Homestead that was once located at the Palisades Centre.