Lacombe Express, December 12, 2013

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

New skill GIVING SPIRIT: Local Big Brothers Big Sisters holds third annual Festival of Wreaths – PG 3

GENEROSITY: Father Lacombe school making a difference on local and global scales – PG 11

HOLIDAY CHARM: The Nutcracker is set to be staged this weekend at Red Deer College – PG 17

FIRST TIMER - Jacob Poettcker, 3, learns to skate at the Jim Hurley Family Skate at the Blackfalds Multiplex this past weekend.

Brian Vossen/Lacombe Express

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2 Lacombe Express

Thursday, December 12, 2013

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Scavenger Hunt Clues:

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Over the past couple months we have encouraged everyone to get out and explore this great community by participating in a Scavenger Hunt. Each week an article along with a clue was published in the Lacombe Express and the Scavenger Hunt clues related to the article that week. If you missed any of the clues – don’t worry! There is still time to enter and you can find all of them below.

Submit your answers by Monday, December 16 at noon and win a Family Pass to the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre for 1 Year and some City of Lacombe swag!

Clue #1

Clue #4

Clue #6

Introduction

The Way We Move – Transportation in Lacombe

How We Play: Recreation and Culture in Lacombe

How many sets of stop lights are located within the City of Lacombe on Hwy 2A?

The City just installed eight new pieces of fitness equipment at several locations along Cranna Lake. The equipment is spread along the trail and is designed to encourage residents to go out and be active. This week go out, be active, and get a photo of you on one of the new pieces of exercise equipment at Cranna Lake.

Clue #5 In 2003, an air photo of the ‘Town’ of Lacombe was taken. Can you spot five major differences between then and now? If you need some hints, a map of 2013 can be found on our website or on the Facebook page!

#

Clue 2 Where We Live For this week’s scavenger hunt we challenge you to go to Lacombe’s most historic home (it’s now a museum) and take or draw a picture of it.

#

Clue 3 Where We Work Save a receipt from a recent purchase you’ve made in Lacombe, and take a picture, or draw one, of what you purchased!

Powering Our Community, Powering Our Lives Explore our commercial and industrial areas and take a photo of a business that serves the agricultural industry.

Clue #7 Bringing It All Together For this week’s scavenger hunt we challenge you to look at the three Area Structure Plans and let us know which plan has not seen any development?

Area Structure Plans can be found on our website at: http://www.lacombe.ca/doing-business/planning-development/planning/land-use-plans

Enter to Win Submit your entry by Monday, December 16 at noon.

Please provide your name, age, address and contact number along with your Scavenger Hunt entry.

Drop off your entry at Lacombe City Hall Attn: Scavenger Hunt Planning & Development Dept.

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Lacombe Express 3

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Third annual Festival of Wreaths better than ever Local fundraiser supports many programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters

BY BRIAN VOSSEN Lacombe Express

T

here are many who believe that this time of year should be about spreading joy and kinship with others.

Lacombe & District Big Brothers Big Sisters is one such organization that tries to do so throughout the year, but they need some help.

As such, Big Brothers Big Sisters is holding the third annual Festival of Wreaths fundraiser.

Crystal Zens, executive director of Lacombe & District Big Brothers Big Sisters, said the festival is a miniature version of the Festival of Trees, a fundraiser held by many larger Big Brothers Big Sisters groups, particularly in the United States.

“We kind of cloned it from a program in the States. The idea was that it would be a really cool way to collaborate with businesses.”

Zens explained how the fundraiser works. She said that Big Brothers Big Sisters provides wreaths which are then decorated by businesses that wish to support the program.

In decorating the wreaths, businesses also incorporate swag, promotional items, samples, gift cards and other goodies into the package. Zens said there is a minimum of $150 worth of such items with each wreath, but some of the wreaths are worth as much as $700.

“It’s like a gift basket on a wreath.” She added that the wreaths are then sold off via silent auction, with the funds going to support Big Brothers Big Sisters.

There are many perks that benefit various partners in the program. Zens said the City of Lacombe gets to use the wreaths to decorate the Lacombe Memorial Centre and Big Brothers Big Sisters gets a venue to display the wreaths and assistance in setting them up. Without this, Zens added, the organization would not be able to host the fundraiser.

Zens also said that she has heard from participating businesses that decorating the wreaths makes for a good team-

#LT347

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS - Crystal Zens shows off the winning entry in this year’s Festival of Wreaths from Reflections Day Spa. building and staff-bonding exercise within the business.

As with most of the fundraisers in the community, the Festival of Wreaths is very successful. Zens said the wreaths are very popular and most are purchased as gifts for friends and family.

Each year, the quality of the wreaths improves as well.

Zens said that the businesses who support the program have really bought into the idea of decorating the wreaths and find it a good way to get exposure and help out the community.

“The businesses have really, every year, raised the bar. The wreaths are getting better and better.”

There is even a bit of competition between the businesses to see who can make the best wreath. Zens said there are prizes

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for the first and second best decorated wreaths each year.

This year, there are 27 wreaths in the festival. That is down from last year’s 31, but still above the 18 wreaths the first year the festival was held.

Usually, Big Brothers Big Sisters has the opportunity to auction a few of the wreaths as well.

Zens said that this opportunity is not available this year so they are anticipating money raised to be slightly lower than previous years, but the organization still hopes to reach a goal of $4,000 with the fundraiser.

Festival of Wreaths is an important fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters, said Zen. Without it, there would be quite a dry spell for fundraising and lack of revenue for several months, she added.

“It’s a great way to end our year and inject some revenue into our children’s programs.”

Zens added that the fundraiser enables Big Brothers Big Sisters to host a big Christmas turkey dinner for all of its families as well as fund other programs.

Bids for the wreaths can be made online or in person at the LMC. Zens said online bidders have the advantage of being able to sign up for a service that automatically processes billing information and sends the bidder notifications immediately when they have been outbid.

Should bidders choose to go the old-fashioned route and make silent bids in person at the LMC, those bids will be manually updated to the online system as anonymous bids. When those bid-

Brian Vossen/Lacombe Express

ders are outbid, they will not receive notifications and will have to check their bids themselves to keep track.

To bid on a wreath in the Festival of Wreaths, visit www.bidsforkids.kinterra.org or visit the LMC in person. Bidding closes Dec. 17.

Festival of Wreaths is not the only event Big Brothers Big Sisters has going on this time of year.

Tomorrow, Dec. 13 they will hold their annual Charity Checkstop event outside the police station.

Santa will be present handing out candy canes as the stop collects spare change for both Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Lacombe Food Bank. For more information, call 403-782-7870. news@lacombeexpress.com

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4 Lacombe Express

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Citizens sound off on residential area rezoning

BY BRIAN VOSSEN Lacombe Express Lacombe City council has voted unanimously in favour of giving second reading to the rezoning of a parcel of land in order to facilitate the future Trinity Crossing at Terrace Heights development, also known as Trinity Crossing.

The decision came after a public hearing where council heard the concerns citizens in the area have with the proposed re-zoning and the subsequent high-density housing to be built there as part of the Trinity Crossing development.

While the housing needs assessment stated Lacombe is in dire need of highdensity, residents made it clear they were not happy with the re-zoning or proposed development.

Located north of Terrace Heights Dr. and east of C & E Trail, the proposed development requires the rezoning of a section of land from Future Designation District (FD) to Maximum Density MultiUnit Residential District (R6).

During the hearing, council heard from at least half a dozen residents and had already received more than 100 written responses. Most were opposed both to the re-zoning and the proposed

development. Those in opposition cited concerns of increased traffic volume, speeding, parking congestion, decreased property values for existing properties and unpleasant views from their homes.

Some stated they opposed the idea of low-income, high-density housing in this area of the City, saying it would attract transient individuals not invested in the well-being of the community and would lead to higher crime rates.

Others suggested the City was placing too much emphasis on high-density developments in this area of Lacombe or even that there was enough high density residential zones existing.

Some suggested density should instead be spread throughout the City or was better suited to other areas like downtown.

“When is enough, enough?” said Jennifer Nesbitt, a resident of Terrace Heights Dr. “There are town homes, there are duplexes and the assisted living down the street. That’s enough, that’s plenty.”

A few residents suggested high-density housing developments were not needed or did not belong in a city the size of Lacombe.

While there was little in the way of support for the re-zoning or the development, some of those who spoke stated

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they were not in opposition to development or growth of the City, but only opposed to how the City and developers were approaching it.

Marco de Andrade, a resident of Terrace Heights Dr., said he did not oppose high-density, but felt that the City should be striving to exceed requirements instead of simply meeting them.

Many of those who spoke at the public hearing also voiced complaints about how

the City notifies area residents of coming developments.

In response, Councillor Grant Harder said a revision of the City’s notification system was necessary, something that earned him applause from those gathered in the gallery.

“I think it’s very clear that we need to address our notification system,” said Harder.

“Just because we have always done it that way doesn’t mean it’s the right way to do it.” news@lacombeexpress.com

Blackfalds council pleased with budget

BY BRIAN VOSSEN Lacombe Express Blackfalds Town council has approved a $19.9 million budget.

At its meeting Tuesday, council voted in favour of adopting the proposed operational budget of $19,997,400 and the capital budget at $5,593,000.

“I think it addresses some of our shortfalls as we’ve grown so rapidly. This is a super community and this is a super budget,” said Councillor William Taylor.

Chief Administrative Officer Corinne Newman agreed. “I believe this is a great budget. Growth is paying for growth.”

Mayor Melodie Stol also shared her thoughts on the strengths of the budget.

“I’m very pleased that this budget helps accomplish the goals that were laid out in the Municipal Sustainability Plan and again, I commend every member of the team who put their stamp on this budget.”

In order to provide higher levels of service, the budget includes funds for six new full-time positions with the Town, two existing positions to go to full-time and the addition of one new bylaw officer to Black-

falds. These additions are outside of the staff for the Abbey Centre which is slated to be operational in 2014. Two of the additional staff will be in public works.

As snow removal is on the minds of everyone right now, administration commented on how these additions will improve snow removal for the Town, saying that having the additional personnel and better equipment included in the budget will translate to public works being able to clear snow more efficiently.

Newman said the addition of another bylaw officer will allow the Town to “keep up” with the increased traffic and property issues. She added it will also allow for greater flexibility in creating shifts for bylaw officers and allow for double the coverage.

The budget also includes a net municipal tax increase of 1.5% over 2013 and an average increase for utility rates of $3.93 monthly per household. Property taxes, operating reserve transfers, user fees and cost sharing agreements fund the operating budget and the capital budget is funded by reserves, grants and developmental levnews@lacombeexpress.com ies.

Reminder Holiday Season Garbage Schedule: Christmas Garbage Collection: Regular Collection Day

Revised Collection Day

Monday, December 23

collected on

Thursday, December 19

Tuesday, December 24

collected on

Friday, December 20

Wednesday, December 25

collected on

Monday December 23

Thursday, December 26

collected on

Monday, December 23

Friday, December 27

collected on

Tuesday, December 24

New Years Garbage Collection: Regular Collection Day Wednesday, January 1

Revised Collection Day collected on

Thursday, January 2

Residents are reminded to have their individual black rollout bins on the street for collection by 7:00am, on the scheduled day Contact: Infrastructure Services Office Phone: 403.782.1261

www.lacombe.ca

Lacombe Express 5

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Lacombe Fire battles blaze in frigid temperatures

BY BRIAN VOSSEN Lacombe Express A home was destroyed in a blaze late last week in Lacombe County.

At 3:45 p.m. last Friday, the Lacombe Fire Department responded to a major house fire in Lacombe County at 26203 Milton Rd. Due to the severity of the blaze, a request for aid was made to the Bentley, Clive and Mirror fire departments.

“Our volunteer firefighters braved -37C temperatures and severe wind chill to battle the blaze, but the building was a total loss in spite of their efforts,” said Lacombe Fire Department Chief Ed van Delden. He added that apart from a few cases of frostbite and one firefighter receiving what is believed to be a small heat burn, there were no injuries. van Delden said Lacombe responded with an engine, a tender and a rescue unit. En route to the fire, crews could already see smoke and clear signs of the fire from the outskirts of Lacombe.

With the fire fully involved, firefighters took on a ‘defensive firefighting’ strategy to combat the inferno.

He added that while the house was lost, firefighters were able to contain the damage and prevent

the fire from spreading.

“The excellent cooperation and inter-operability between the assisting fire departments played a vital role in this effort,” said van Delden. “I also want to recognize the vital support we received from Lacombe County enforcement.”

Volunteer firefighters are well aware of the difficulties they have to face when responding to calls in severely cold weather, both in terms on the human element, as well as the logistical complications in using water and equipment at -37C. According to van Delden, snow accumulation around the side and back of the house must have been at least a meter deep, and it took a ‘herculean’ effort on the part of the firefighters to initially plow through while pulling a hose full of water and wearing their full gear, including their breathing apparatus.

Firefighters also had to contend with multiple frozen valves on pumps, as well as ice on face masks and frozen regulators on breathing apparatus, said van Delden. He said firefighters had to use hand held propane torches to thaw out frozen valves.

“I did not hear a single discouraging word from the volunteer firefighters in spite of the

extreme conditions,” said van Delden. “No firefighter had the opportunity to rest until we were well into the second hour of the operation.” van Delden said that the exemplary conduct of the firefighters humbled him and made him proud, and reminded him again of why he chooses to work with these brave and selfless volunteers. Meanwhile, in other emer-

gency services news, Blackfalds RCMP are investigating mischief and damage to rural post office boxes as well as theft of mail from boxes along C&E trail west of Red Deer.

Between Dec. 8 and Dec. 9, unknown individuals knocked over, damaged and removed mail from multiple mailboxes. Unknown suspects also damaged lights on entry gates to the homes along

C&E Trail. Anyone with knowledge about these instances is asked to contact Blackfalds RCMP. RCMP are also reminding rural residents with rural mailboxes to collect mail frequently, as gifts being sent through the mail create an incentive for thieves to force access to mail boxes in search of valuables. news@lacombeexpress.com

City council amends snow policy

BY BRIAN VOSSEN Lacombe Express

Director of Infrastructure Matthew Goudy said the additional resources, both human and mechanical, were necessary for the increased level of service and implied that the additional equipment may be a good idea anyway.

“We’re running fairly lean with equipment here.”

This amendment does not propose any changes to the current policy of windrowing snow, said Goudy. He stated that the current policy is to windrow snow and, when necessary, contact contractors to have the snow removed.

Before the amendment, the City’s policy was to clear paths to private driveways in areas where snow is windrowed along the side of the street, but not private walkways. Goudy said that this practice can at times leave some residents, who do not have front driveways, with no access to the street at all.

The City of Lacombe has made winter just a little bit easier for some of its citizens.

At its regular meeting on Monday, council voted in favour of amending the City’s snow removal policy in order to allow workers to clear snow from the private walkways of residents in cases where such walkways provide the only access to the street.

To facilitate this amendment, the City approved the replacement of one seasonal public works employee with one permanent full-time employee and funds for the repair and upgrade of a skid steer unit. This meant that council also had to amend its operating budget, the amended version of which was approved later the same evening, and further increased the tax rate for 2014.

Michael & Sandi Gouchie

Andries Steegstra

news@lacombeexpress.com

Sharon Dalhuisen

Barb Hay

Matea Pratt

Boyd Williams

Maria Wagner

Help Us Fill Our House & Put Hunger Out of Commission in Our Community

Discover the convenience of pre-authorized monthly payments The City of Lacombe has a Pre-Authorized Tax Installment Payment Plan.

This voluntary plan offers you an easy, time-saving way to have tax payments automatically deducted from your bank account each month.

to the first 100 people who bring in a food item or monetary donation for the Lacombe Food Bank.

Donations accepted at our office

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2013 from 11:00a.m. to 3:00p.m.

It means eliminating the chore of writing cheques and you’ll never have to worry about remembering to make a payment or the cost of postage or a possible late fee. There are no service charges or fees for enrolling in this plan and setting up is easy: 1) Complete and submit the Authorization Agreement for the plan, along with a void cheque. The form can be picked up in person at City Hall (5432 56 Avenue, Lacombe, Alberta) or on-line at http://www.lacombe.ca/living/ taxes-assessment 2) Payments will start being automatically withdrawn from your bank account on the 16th of each month

For Information Contact: Marc Perreault, City of Lacombe Tax Clerk Phone: 403.782.1257

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6 Lacombe Express

Thursday, December 12, 2013

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Lacombe wraps up MDP awareness campaign

BY BRIAN VOSSEN Lacombe Express This is the final week of the City of Lacombe’s awareness campaign regarding the revision of its Municipal Development Plan (MDP).

In the New Year the City will move onto the next step of the revision process by starting a more formal consultation process with the community.

Lyla Peter, manager of development and planning for the City of Lacombe, said while the City understands they have been asking for quite a lot of feedback lately, getting input from the community when updating plans is still an important step.

“We are very aware that the community may be having ‘consultation fatigue’.”

Peter went on to say that, since the City has updated so many different plans recently, they will also be using some of the feedback gained in the

consultation of other plans, like the Municipal Sustainability Plan (MSP) and Solid Waste Roadmap when revising the MDP. In the meantime, the City is still hoping to brainstorm with the public and start a conversation before the consultations take place.

To that effect, the City is doing a scavenger hunt along with its awareness campaign. For the last eight weeks, the City has been running a series of informative adds about the MDP covering a different aspect of the plan each week.

Last week’s add featured the final clue for the scavenger hunt, but if you missed them don’t worry, they can be found at the Growing Lacombe facebook page or on the City’s web site.

Peter said it’s a fun way to explore the community but it also serves to get people thinking about topics that will be discussed when revising the MDP. “We’re trying to have questions that get people out across the com-

munity,” said Peter. Some examples include bringing in a receipt from a local business or counting how many lights there are along Hwy. 2A. Once all the submissions for the scavenger hunt are received, they will be put into a draw for the grand prize winner. The prize for the Scavenger Hunt is a one-year family swim pass to the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre.

The deadline for entries to the scavenger hunt is Dec. 16 at 1 p.m. The winner should be announced in the Dec. 19 edition of the Express.

For more information, find Growing Lacombe on facebook or visit the City’s web site at www.lacombe.ca.

Residents can share their thoughts on the MDP via email, phone, visiting the facebook page and/or visiting the web site. Or, send a letter to the editor to news@lacombeexpress.com and let the community know your thoughts as well. news@lacombeexpress.com

Bullying.

That’s not the Alberta way.

13122SA0 Premier Alison Redford

Stop Bill 46 In 1977, Premier Peter Lougheed promised that in all future contract negotiations, provincial employees would have the right to binding arbitration in lieu of the right to strike.

Now, Premier Alison Redford has rammed through Bill 46, which goes back on that promise and takes the right to arbitration away from 22,000 front-line government employees.

Redford’s Bill 46 gives government the power to freeze wages, with no independent arbitrator determining what is fair and justified. That’s not negotiating, that’s bullying.

And bullying is not the Alberta way.

The Alberta way has always been to keep your promises and respect the rights of others.

Demand that Premier Redford scrap Bill 46 at TheAlbertaWay.com

Lacombe Express 7

Thursday, December 12, 2013

5019A - 51 St Lacombe, AB T4L 2A3 Main phone:

403-782-5303 Fax:

403-782-5344

Editor

Brian Vossen 403-782-5306 news@lacombeexpress.com

Sales

Karina Folden 403-782-5330 sales@lacombeexpress.com

OPINION Free isn’t necessarily better By now, you have probably seen the A&W advertisements promoting the restaurant chain’s elimination of hormone use in its beef.

In September of this year A&W began advertising its new hormone-free foodstuffs as ‘better beef’.

It’s something that has upset a lot of cattle farmers. There are certainly those who believe that removing hormones from beef make it better for you, but there is some debate over whether or not this is true.

Firstly, to call A&W beef hormone free is not completely true because all multi-cellular organisms, humans included, produce hormones of their own. So, there may not be any hormones added to the cows A&W gets its beef from, but the cows will still produce hormones of their own.

What A&W has actually done is eliminated the use of hormone implants in its beef production process. Many conventional beef producers use hormone implants to make their beef grow more muscle faster with less feed by producing more.

These implanted animals produce meat that contains slightly more of the hormone estrogen. But it’s only a little bit more with 1.9

nanograms versus 1.3 nanograms of estrogen per three ounce serving, according to Bruce Treffer of the University of Nebraska.

There is some belief that these extra estrogens can cause harm to humans who eat them, but all humans, males included, already produce estrogen. According to Ann Macrina at Penn State University, children’s bodies each produce 54,000 nanograms of it each day.

Not only that, but estrogen in implanted beef is miniscule compared to how much you might find in other foodstuffs. In cabbage, for example, you would find 2,000 nanograms of estrogen. Several studies have been done which suggest that natural foodstuffs like grains and seeds (most notably soybeans) contain the highest levels of estrogen. Also, those hormones are broken down by the digestion process, so they no longer work as hormones, said Macrina.

Use of hormone implants is legal in Canada and the U.S. but is illegal in other countries, such as those within the European Union.

According to Health Canada, research has yet to yield significant evidence that consuming beef raised with hormone implants can lead to health concerns.

To be fair though, one could

probably argue the opposite is true as well; that there has not been enough research to completely discredit claims that hormones are harmful either.

In any case, there certainly is a market for hormone-free beef. But the market still remains for conventionally raised beef as well.

So if you want to eat hormone-

free beef (which as mentioned above isn’t really hormone free), by all means do so. If you want to continue eating beef with hormone implants, you are free to continue doing that as well.

Just make sure to educate yourself before doing either and don’t believe something is better just because someone on TV told you so.

A prudent and realistic budget for 2014 Customer Service

Tanya Kenyon advertising@lacombeexpress.com

City council recently passed the 2014 capital and operating budgets, which allows the City to maintain service delivery at current levels, and includes resources for a number of new initiatives that are part of council’s strategic priorities for next year: a curb side recycling program, a regional public transit service and investment in the City’s fire and police services.

Steve

CHRISTIE Publisher

Tracey Scheveers publisher@lacombeexpress.com The Lacombe Express is a proud newspaper of

Copyright.

No material - news, photographs or advertising - may be reproduced without the express written consent of the Publisher.

Failure to obtain such consent may result in legal action without further notice.

I am pleased to say that this budget is responsive to the needs and preferences of our citizens, which are established through public engagement and consultation and through collaboration with community organizations.

In keeping with council’s budget guidelines, the average tax rate increase on municipal taxes for a property in Lacombe will be 2.7% while there will be a 5.24% increase per month for the average residential utility account.

Utility customers will see the

water consumption rate increases from $2.18 per m3 to $2.26 per m3, with the monthly flat rate increasing from $23.25 per month to $24.01 per month. The wastewater consumption rate (charged at 80% of water consumption used), will increase from $0.78 per m3 to $0.80 per m3, with the monthly flat rate is increasing from $11.43 per month to $12.28 per month.

For solid waste, residential rates will increase to reflect the new curb side recycling program, with the monthly rate increasing from $21.45 per month to $27.09. Commercial rates will increase from $80.89 per month to $89.43 per month.

The 2014 operating budget has expenditures of $29.49 million, with $18.1 million in offsetting revenues excluding property taxes and $11.4 million in municipal property taxes to achieve an operating surplus of $4,170.

This is a $2 million or 7.5% increase over the 2013 expenditures.

Additional property tax revenues resulting from assessment growth amount to $167,624 and additional property tax revenues from the 2.7% tax increase generate $289,203.

Debt repayment amounts to a

total of $2,078,622 ($466,068 interest and $1,612,554 principal). Next year’s contributions to capital from capital reserves total $2.8 million ($2.5 million in 2013).

The 2014 budget includes funding for projects that will support the City’s strategic priorities through commercial/industrial land development, safe communities, and infrastructure development. They include the Tangible Capital Assets Inventory and Amortization Software Implementation; Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan Implementation; Council Strategic Review, Recreation and Culture Master Plan implementation, Municipal Sustainability Plan (MSP) Review and Implementation, the Municipal Development Plan Review, the Land-Use Bylaw Review, the Echo Community Endowment Program Marketing, the Fleet Audit Action Plan, the Solid Waste Review Implementation Plan, the Completion of Wolf Creek Basin Study, the Len Thompson Industrial Park Phase II Site Servicing and Lot Sales and Cemetery Plan Implementation.

The 2014 capital budget includes 44 new capital projects totalling $15.9 million, with $7.59 million to

be grant-funded. Not only will the 2014 Capital Works Program maintain and enhance our infrastructure and facilities, it will develop new infrastructure to encourage economic growth.

Projects include $1.69 million for Maple Dr. – College Ave. to end – sidewalk, base and pavement project, $4.55 million for 34 St. – Hwy. 2A to City Boundary – curb, base and pavement project, $810,000 for signals; lighting; 50th Ave. barrier, Henner’s Pond Outfall and NE Lift Station.

Other highlights include $1.83 million for vehicle and equipment replacement, $3.2 million for Len Thompson Phase II Site Development, $1 million for Land Acquisition Site, and $800,000 for Police Station Design & Engineering among others.

Lacombe’s growth is impacting staff capacity and it is getting more difficult to sustain existing services. However, we are working hard to find efficiencies, and City administration has prepared a budget that maintains service levels while supporting increased demand from residents in a sustainable manner.

Steve Christie is the mayor of Lacombe.

8 Lacombe Express

Thursday, December 12, 2013

fyi EVENTS Fundraiser Concert – Melrose Randell’s Voice Studio presents An Evening of Classical Music featuring Soprano Nicole Brooks at St. Andrew’s United Church on Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.

Admission is free but donations to A Better World are most appreciated. Funds raised will go to feeding the children and building sanitary structures at the Ringa School in Kenya.

Festival of Wreaths - this third annual event allows you to bid for the kids! Through to Dec. 18th, bid on amazing wreaths to help local programs through Big Brothers Big Sisters. Online Bidding. The event runs Dec. 2 between 5-10 p.m. at the Lacombe Memorial Centre.

Annual Christmas Concert – at the Lincoln Hall on Dec. 13 at 7:30. All welcome. If you wish to participate contact Merrigold at 782-6313 or Kathy at 782-4194.

Open Stage – At Lincoln Hall on Dec. 14 at 7:30. All Welcome.

If you wish to participate or for more information contact Laura Siebenga at 782-4095 Lacombe Christmas Farmers Markets will be held every Friday morning from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through to Dec. 13 at the Lacombe Memorial Centre.

Huge variety of baking, crafts, honey, perogies, woodwork, jams, veggies, meats, clothing, and more. Call 403-7824772 for more information.

Lacombe Dance Lessons - social and choreographed ballroom dancing. Traditional Two-step or Cha Cha/Jive. For details phone Cliff at 403-782-4094.

Real Men Sing Barbershop! The Wild Rose Harmonizers Barbershop Chorus is a chorus for males of all ages who love to sing four-part a cappella harmony. We are a proud member of the Barbershop Harmony society providing entertainment at seniors’ lodges, hospitals and numerous community and private functions throughout the year. No experience is required, just a love to sing.

These events brought to you by:

LACOMBE

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Join us on Tuesday evening, rehearsals from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at Davenport Church of Christ (#68 Donlevy Ave.) For information, call David at 403-342-1318 or email crozsmit@telusplanet. net. Visit www.harmonizers.ca.

The Red Deer Legion Pipe Band is actively recruiting experienced and inexperienced people from the Central Alberta area, who are interested in joining the Band.

Anyone with piping or drumming experience, or if you would like to learn piping or drumming, are asked to please contact us at 403-782-7183 or by email at amacaskill@telus.net. Practices are held at the Red Deer

September). Last Thursday of the month is girls only. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m. and activities run at the YU-Turn Youth Centre.

Drop in Pool Tournament runs every Saturday from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Lacombe Hotel.

Circle of Friends - free weekly supper for the community, nutritious meals for anyone interested. It runs at Bethel Christian Reformed Church.

Taoist Tai Chi - a relaxing, low impact exercise; continuing classes year round, for those who have completed beginners or have learned Taoist Tai Chi before.

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volunteer program that raises money in support of numerous initiatives supporting educations. Meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of every month and begin at 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrew’s United Church. For more information, contact Mary Lou Wilson 403-782-3923.

W.H.O.L.E. - Widows Helping Others Live Earnestly. W.H.O.L.E. can help you adjust to your loss, to channel your grief into helping others who are struggling with loss, and to help you gain perspective as a person who has a new role to be fulfilled. It’s about widow to widow interaction and socialization. It’s about being

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The Lacombe Legion has bingo on Mondays at 7 p.m. in the upstairs hall. Coffee time runs Wednesdays from 9:30-11 a.m. ($2 for coffee, tea and cookies). On Fridays, there are four meat draws and tickets are $2/ set of three tickets. Draw starts at 6:30 p.m. On Saturdays, there are four meat draws which start at 4:30 p.m. Chase the ace starts after meat draws.

New to Lacombe? Contact Lacombe Welcome Wagon at 403-348-9567 for free maps, information about the City & area, as well as free gifts from local businesses. New baby in the family? Contact Lacombe Welcome Wagon at 403-3489567 for free information, baby product samples as well as free gifts from local businesses.

Youth Unlimited Drop-in Activites every Tuesday and Thursday, for ages 12 and up. Movies, crafts, games, and more! It costs $2/ night or $50/season (June-

Participate in classes of your choice. Available in Red Deer, Lacombe, Rocky Mountain House, and Innisfail. Contact 403-3466772 for more information.

Coffee Time at the Lacombe Legion runs every Wednesday morning. Come join us for coffee. $2.

Gatherings run from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Lacombe Legion.

Old-time dances run at the Red Deer Legion every Wednesday evening. Smorg at 5 p.m. with dance at 7:30 p.m. Cover charge $6. Country music runs Friday and Saturday evenings 7 to 11 p.m. 403-342-0035.

MEETINGS The Lacombe Hospital Auxiliary meets the first Thursday of every month at 1:30 p.m. in the Education Room at the hospital. New members welcome. For more information, call Rilla at 403-782-6165.

Imperial Daughters of the Empire is a non-profit women’s

Writers’ Ink, The Red Deer & District Writers Club has weekly meetings (every Tuesday) in the old farmhouse at Sunnybrook Farm (4701 30 St.) from 7 to 9 p.m. We meet, share our writing, and offer constructive criticism to one another. We also do our utmost to improve our craft

by Skyping professionals in the field of writing, by inviting guest speakers to our Spring Workshop and to the occasional meeting. Our professional library is increasing as is our knowledge gained from members who are constantly seeking new challenges and sharing successes and failures with the group. Guests are welcome!

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Legion on Tuesdays at 7 p.m.

ment and support. Call Al-Anon Family groups at 403-346-0320 for a list of meetings in Red Deer and the surrounding area.

able to express with like-minded women the pain and confusion that comes with loss, as well as the encouragement and friendship to help you once again live a life filled with meaning and purpose - an earnest life. There are no councillors present, only a facilitator to help keep conversations moving. W.H.O.L.E meets monthly and is open to widows of all ages. Space is limited, so please phone to book a spot. Refreshments will be served. Call 403-550-4508.

Lacombe Art Guild - the guild meets regularly on the second and third Tuesday of each month.

A variety of workshops are provided for developing artists.

Membership is $15 per year.

Contact Betty Peers at 403782-9968 or blog lacombeartclubwordpress.com. Meetings runs in LMC Credit Union Room at 5214 50 Ave. in Lacombe.

Are you having problems with someone else’s drinking? We are an anonymous group of men and women who can offer encourage-

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous is a 12-step support group offering a solution for all forms of food addiction. No dues, fees or weigh-in. Central Alberta groups meet in Red Deer, Lacombe and Rimbey.

For locations and dates, call Joanne at 403-314-1972.

The Parkinson’s Society Education and Support Group runs the third Wednesday of each month at 1:30 p.m. in the Davenport Church of Christ. 403-346-4463.

An Amputee Support Group Meeting, sponsored by the Alberta Amputee Sport and Recreation Association at 7:30 in Room 2207 in the South Complex of the Red Deer Regional Hospital.

Meetings the fourth Monday of each month. 403-357-3671.

Air Force Association of Canada.

The aims and objectives of the Association are to preserve and perpetuate the traditions of the Royal Canadian Air Force and to advocate a proficient and wellequipped Air Force in Canada.

703 Wing in Red Deer provides a forum for serving and former participants in military and civil aviation to meet and enjoy the company of like-minded people.

703 Wing members meet at noon every second Saturday of the month at the ABC Country Restaurant, 2085 50th Ave. in Red Deer for a luncheon and business meeting. Contact President Al Low at 403-3413253 or amlow@shaw.ca.

Lacombe Express 9

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Gifts for Grandparents in its sixth year For many, the Christmas season includes family gettogethers and lots of opportunities to reconnect with old friends as well.

But for many, including some local seniors, it’s a relatively ‘solitary’ time of year, said Leanne Landry, older adult programming supervisor with Family Services of Central Alberta. That’s something the FSCA is working to change through the Gifts for Grandparents program – now in its sixth year.

“Who wouldn’t want to help someone who may or

‘WHO WOULDN’T WANT TO HELP SOMEONE WHO MAY OR MAY NOT GET A PHONE CALL OR SOME RECOGNITION ON CHRISTMAS?’ LEANNE LANDRY may not get a phone call or some recognition on Christmas?”

Last year, more than 450 gift bags were delivered to isolated seniors in Central Alberta just in time for Christmas. This year’s goal is to make Christmas brighter for 500 seniors in the community.

Through various services and programs, FSCA staff came to see there are many seniors who are either isolated or don’t have family in Central Alberta to celebrate the Christmas season with.

“We have a lot of referrals that come through home support.”

Other agencies in the community provide referrals as well.

She also encourages folks to be on the lookout for seniors who seem to live rather isolated lives in their neighbourhoods, as these residents may be ideal candidates not just for the Gifts for Grandparents program but for other help FSCA can provide yearround as well.

“We want to find the truly isolated seniors.”

Donations are gratefully accepted until Dec. 17th, but will be taken after that date as well, said Landry, who is co-chairing the program along with Lisa Smith.

Suggested donation items run the gamut from slippers, socks, toiletry items for men and women, prepackaged cookies, crackers, jams, gift cards for coffee shops and gro-

always a popular task for sure, but what’s also needed is help in the sorting and packing of donations, she added.

“We have donations coming in all the time.” She said that sometimes, they are coming in right up until 10 minutes before they close their doors on the campaign’s last day.

“It’s awesome. Sometimes we even get donations after Christmas.”

These are always put to good use – perhaps in the form of a care package - donated to someone who is in need, she said. “We always find a home for things that are needed.”

Meanwhile, Landry said the support for the program has been growing from the start. “The involvement and response

from the schools is unbelievable,” she said.

Kids often help out with decorating bags for the gifts and making Christmas cards.

Support from the business community has also been tremendous.

Families have also been quick to get onboard.

“We have families that volunteer – they talk to their kids about volunteerism as well.” As Landry said, it’s a great way to promote the volunteering spirit within a family, too.

“We are so thankful for the community.”

For more information on how to help out, or to arrange for drop-off of donations, call 403-309-5834 or 403-343-6400 or check out www.fsca.ca.

Oh, Come Let Us Adore Him! You are invited to a Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Service 6:30pm

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cery stores, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, books, word puzzles and other small gift items. Other ideas include pajamas, mittens, bed linens, bath/hand towels, nightlights, sweater vests and such.

Landry said that really, she likes to simply encourage folks to purchase whatever they feel is appropriate for a gift and drop it off at one of the donation locations.

Cash donations are also welcome, and donations over $10 are eligible for a tax receipt.

Landry said that donations can also be made with the ongoing costs of a senior’s home support services. The agency provides light housekeeping, meal preparations and grocery shopping.

In some instances, clients are struggling with their fees and are on fixed incomes. All donations designated for home support will help relieve some of the financial burden on seniors.

Gift cards can be purchased at FSCA in increments of $20 as well.

Landry also pointed out that volunteers are needed to help in the sorting, packing and delivery of the gifts. In the past, the program has seen overwhelming support from schools, service clubs and individuals and families and online applications are currently being accepted for volunteer positions.

Delivering the gifts is

10 Lacombe Express

Lacombe Christmas Market ‹• „‡‹Â?‰ Š‡Ž† every Friday ˆ”‘Â? Â‘Â˜Ç¤ÍłÍˇ –‘ ‡…Ǥͳ;ǥ ÍťÂƒÂ? –‘ ͳ’Â? ƒ– –Š‡ ƒ…‘Â?„‡ ‡Â?‘”‹ƒŽ ‡Â?–”‡Ǥ Š‡”‡ ‹• ƒ •’‡…‹ƒŽ Â?ƒ”Â?‡– †—”‹Â?‰ ‘‘Â?Ž‹‰Š– ĠÂ?॥ ‘Â? Â‘Â˜Ç¤Í´Íş ˆ”‘Â? ͡’Â? –‘ ͳͲ’Â?Ǥ – ‡ƒ…Š Â?ƒ”Â?‡– ›‘— ™‹ŽŽ Ď?‹Â?† ‰‘‘†‹‡• Ž‹Â?‡ Š‘Â?‡Â?ƒ†‡ „ƒÂ?‹Â?‰ǥ Â„Â”Â‡ÂƒÂ†ÇĄ Â˜Â‡Â‰Â‡Â–ÂƒÂ„ÂŽÂ‡Â•ÇĄ ÂˆÂ”Â—Â‹Â–ÇĄ Â…Â”ÂƒÂˆÂ–Â•ÇĄ Œ‡™‡Ž”› ƒÂ?† Â?‘”‡Ǥ ƒŽŽ ͜Ͳ;nj͚ͺʹnj͚͚͜ʹ ˆ‘” Â?‘”‡ ‹Â?ˆ‘”Â?ƒ–‹‘Â?Ǥ

Request for Proposal Sidewalk Snow Removal

You are invited to submit a proposal to provide sidewalk snow removal for the City of Lacombe for a period of 1 year. Extensions will be considered.

All interested parties are invited to pick up a full RFP at City Hall beginning immediately. Packages can also be acquired through the City of Lacombe website at www.lacombe.ca or by contacting Wayne Lowe at 403-782-1269 ext. 1.

The RFP will define the content of the proposal. You are urged to structure your responses accordingly with sufficient details so it is complete, appropriate and competitive.

Any interested parties must submit proposals and confirm City Hall’s receipt of them no later than 2:00 pm on December 23, 2013.

Only proposals submitted within the time frame and guidelines provided will be considered.

For more information contact: Wayne Lowe, Community Peace Officer 403-782-1269 ext. 1 wlowe@lacombe.ca

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Lacombe passes capital and operating budgets Taxes are on the rise for Lacombe.

City council has passed the 2014 capital and operating budgets, which allows the City to maintain service delivery at current levels and includes resources for council’s priority areas including a recycling program, a regional transit initiative, and making safety a priority by investing in the City’s protective services.

Mayor Steve Christie said the tax increase and budget will ensure the City continues to provide the level of service citizens expect. “Consistent with council’s budget guidelines,

property tax rates have been budgeted with a 2.7 per cent increase,� said Christie. “This budget is responsive to the needs and preferences of our citizens, which are established through public engagement and consultation and collaboration with community organizations.�

The 2014 operating budget has expenditures of $29.49 million with $18.1 million in offsetting revenues excluding property taxes and $11.4 million in municipal property taxes to achieve an operating surplus of $4,170.

This is a $2 million or

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7.5% increase over the 2013 expenditures. “Lacombe’s growth is impacting staff capacity and it is getting more difďŹ cult to sustain existing services,â€? said Chief Administrative OfďŹ cer Norma MacQuarrie. “However, we are working hard to ďŹ nd efďŹ ciencies and administration has prepared a budget that maintains service levels and supports increased demand from residents in a sustainable manner.â€?

The average tax rate increase on municipal taxes for a property in Lacombe will be 2.7% while there will be a 5.24% increase per month for the average residential utility account.

The 2014 operating budget also includes a 2% cost of living adjustment for police ofďŹ cers, and 1% for staff.

The 2014 capital budget includes 44 new capital projects totaling $15.9 million with $7.59 million to be grant-funded.

Not only will the 2014 capital works program maintain and enhance infrastructure and facilities, it will develop new infrastructure to encourage economic growth, said Christie.

Projects include: • $1.69 million for Maple Dr. – College Ave. to end – sidewalk, base and pave-

ment project. • $4.55 million for 34 St. – Hwy. 2A to City boundary – curb, base and pavement project. • $810,000 for signals; lighting; 50th Ave. barrier; Henner’s Pond outfall and NE Lift Station. • $867,000 for infrastructure replacement at Woodland Dr. and C&E Trail; par count, 49 St. and 52 Ave.; 49 Ave. and Hwy. 2A. • $1.83 million for vehicle and equipment replacement. • $3.2 million for Len Thompson Phase II site development. • $1 million for land acquisition site. • $800,000 for police station design and engineering. • $604,000 for parks and trail development. • $391,000 for facility updates for pumphouse A & C; Aquaplex, Arena and Pickwick Lane playground. • $172,000 for offsite levy software; wastewater impact study bleacher replacement and Henner’s Park landscaping.

Municipal Sustainability Initiative (MSI) capital grants for 2014 are estimated at $2.15 million: • $800,000 will fund the police station – engineering and design. • $325,000 will fund the Michener Park design and ball diamond. • $236,000 will fund the trail expansion – Elizabeth and Lake Anne. • $85,000 will fund the council Strategic Plan, the Municipal Development Plan, and the Land Use Bylaw. • $192,000 will fund arena and pool upgrades. • $55,000 will be carried forward from 2013 to complete the Municipal Development Plan, the Housing Needs Assessment and the Organizational Affective Review.

Additional property tax revenues resulting from assessment growth amount to $167,624 and additional property tax revenues from the 2.7% tax increase generate $289,203. Debt repayment amounts to a total of $2,078,622 ($466,068 interest and $1,612,554 principal).

2014 contributions to capital from capital reserves total $2.8 million ($2.5 million in 2013).

- Vossen

Lacombe Express 11

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Lacombe school shares gifts through charitable projects

BY BRIAN VOSSEN Lacombe Express Students and staff at Father Lacombe Catholic School are making a difference this Christmas on both local and global scales.

With its ‘Santa’s Shack’ program recently finished and its ‘Giving Tree’ project about to wrap up as well, Father Lacombe is supporting both the Philippines typhoon relief effort and the local Santa’s Anonymous program.

Principal Denis Côté said that the two programs are not related but both are examples of the type of behaviour the school wishes to instill in its students. He added that the students are constantly taught to share God’s gifts with the rest of the world wherever possible.

“It’s just normal for our kids and our staff to give.

It becomes automatic with our students to share with everyone around us.”

Côté said the Giving Tree is an initiative that has been running every year since long before he came to the school two years ago.

It begins each year during the first week of Advent.

A tree is set up at the school decorated with several ornamental tags. Each tag has the an age and gender on it. Students and staff take tags from the tree and purchase a gift for that age and gender and then place it under the tree.

When the project wraps up tomorrow, Dec. 13, the gifts will be taken and donated to the Santa’s Anonymous program run through Lacombe FCSS and Lacombe Kinsmen.

Côté said each year there is typically a small mountain of gifts that usually fill up

one or two trucks or vans and he is expecting a similar response this year.

This year, the students at Father Lacombe came up with an additional initiative of their own to lend a hand to the victims of the Philippines typhoon.

Côte said the project began when he was approached by a group of Grade 9 students seeking his blessing to start a project that would benefit the relief efforts.

“I said by all means,” said Côté. He added he gave the students two conditions, the project must go through the student council and must be inclusive of the whole school.

What the students came up with was Santa’s Shack.

From Dec. 2-5, Grade 9 students ran a sort of canteen twice a day during recesses where students could buy baked goods, hot chocolate,

other confectionary items, even have their faces painted with funds going to benefit the Philippines.

Through the Santa’s Shack and a $650 donation from Côté in lieu of staff Christmas gifts, Father Lacombe was able to raise $1,530.20 to benefit the Philippines typhoon cause.

Côté said the donation will be matched by the federal government for a total

of $3,060.40. Côté reiterated that students at Father Lacombe are constantly taught the importance of sharing. As such, he was not surprised that it was the students who showed the initiative for the Santa’s Shack program, but it was still impressive.

“It’s incredible.”

He added that the initiative coming from the Grade 9 students, the most senior

students at the school, shows great mentorship from the older students.

Projects like the Giving Tree and Santa’s Shack help to instill charity as part of students lifestyles, said Côté. He said that, through such projects, students begin to have the qualities of being good people ingrained in themselves. news@lacombeexpress.com

Christmas Open House Christm

Tuesday

December 17th 1:30 - 3:30 Constituency Office: 101 4892 46th street - Lacombe Ab

Everyone welcome to come and enjoy a coffee, Christmas treats e and great conversation with

Rod Fox MLA /VSPKH` KLHKSPULZ HUK JSVZ\YLZ MVY [OL 3HJVTIL ,_WYLZZ

SEASON OF GIVING – Principal Denis Côté poses with Grade 1 students Thomas Hibbs and Madison Oswald, by the Giving Tree at Father Lacombe Catholic School.

Brian Vossen/Lacombe Express

Due to the Holidays early booking deadlines will be in effect for the December 26 and January 2nd editions.

TUESDAY

December 17 @ 4 pm will be booking deadline for both editions.

The ofÄce of the Lacombe Express will be closed for the Holidays from Friday December 20th to Sunday December 29

12 Lacombe Express

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Staying healthy throughout the holidays Living a healthy lifestyle is no easy task - especially when the holidays roll around.

Extra calories and delicious but fattening foods beg to be consumed.

These will help you feel full faster and prevent you from overeating at the party.

Once you’re at the party, begin your meal by downing a glass of water. Then instead of diving face first into your plate, sit

you. As you eat, take time to sit back and enjoy every bite.

After all, many holiday foods aren’t served year-round and you rarely get together with such great loved ones, so make

back and relax for a few minutes.

The holiday season is about being with family and friends, so instead of turning the focus on food, enjoy the people around

the most of it without consuming the most possible calories. Regardless of what you do to avoid overeating and fighting the urge to fall for holiday temptation time and

Jack

WHEELER And it seems the hosts to every party will not take ‘No’ for an answer. So how do you stay strong in the face of temptation?

The easiest way to control what temptations you’ll face is to bring the holiday festivities to your house. There, you can plan the menu and know every ingredient in every dish. Don’t want to take a stand against pecan pie topped with whipped topping? No problem. It’s your house, your menu, your rules. Simply don’t make it, and you’ll never have to worry about it.

If you have other people bringing foods, let them handle a dish that is difficult to turn into a fattening temptation. Dole out responsibilities for salad, vegetables and bread. This allows friends and family to contribute something besides double-chocolate bars filled with chocolate and topped with chocolate syrup.

Not able to throw a holiday shindig at your place? Then you’ll want to do a little eating before you leave your house. Eat a snack consisting of healthy foods, such as carrot sticks and peanut butter crackers.

NOV 16 -

DE

OVER C

22

again, you’ll not get through the holidays unscathed if you’re not mentally prepared for the temptations that will come your way. Well before the holidays descend, you should come up with a game plan.

What will you say when offered a tasty, yet unhealthy treat? How often will you let yourself indulge in holiday cheer, via cookies, cakes, and pies? What will you do to ensure you don’t overdo it? How will you react if you do overdo it?

Who will help you stay accountable throughout the holiday season? Having answers to these questions will give you the upper hand when holiday treats are trying to get to you.

Being mentally prepared for the holiday temptations sure to come your way will give you the strength necessary to hang tight to your healthy lifestyle, regardless of what obstacles may come your way.

As important as the foods you’re tempted with is, so is what you choose to drink during the holidays. While you may not care for cakes and pies, you may be prone to drink down extra calories in the name of good cheer.

Want to keep yourself from drinking your way to calorie overload?

Then you’ll need to drink limited amounts of alcohol, punch and calorie-laden eggnog. Instead, opt for water (whether plain or flavored), hot apple cider, hot tea and diet soda. Your mouth will feel refreshed and your belly won’t grow by leaps and bounds.

Jack Wheeler is a personal trainer and owner of 360 Fitness in Red Deer.

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Lacombe Express 13

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Lacombe Express

deadline: Monday @ noon

CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad, call Toll Free: 1.877.223.3311 or email: classifieds@lacombeexpress.com

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* Experienced Production Testing * Day Supervisors * Night Operators * Experienced Production Testing Assistants If you are a team player interested in the oil and gas industry, please submit your resume, current driver’s abstract and current safety certificates to the following: Fax 403-887-4750 mbell@1strateenergy.ca Please specify position when replying to this ad.

We would like to thank all those candidates who apply, however only qualified personnel will be contacted.

FLUID Experts Ltd. Fluid Experts of Red Deer is seeking experienced

Class 1 Operators to haul clean fluids for the Oil & Gas Industry. Home every night, company benefits with exceptional pay structure. Must be able to work on their own with minimal supervision.

Compensation based on experience. Fax resume w/all tickets and current drivers abstract to: 403-346-3112 or email to: roger@fluidexperts.com

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Well Testing Personnel IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Experienced Supervisors Night Foremen, & Operators Day & Night Operators Must have H2S, First Aid, Must have valid applicable tickets valid driver’s license.

Email: lstouffer@ Pre-employment Drug testalta.com screening Competitive Wages.

WANTED Benefit Package EXPERIENCED Please submit resume with references to: CLASS 3 apply@wespro.ca VAC/steamer Truck driver. or by fax to (403) 783-8004 Lacombe area, Only individuals selected for HOME EVERY NIGHT. interviews will be contacted Fax resume to 403-704-1442

820

RAMADA INN & SUITES REQUIRES ROOM ATTENDANTS. Exp. preferred.

Only serious inquiries apply.

Rate $13.50/hr.

Drop off resume at: 6853 - 66 St. Red Deer or fax 403-342-4433

is Thursday

for the December 26 and January 2 publications

Restaurant/ Hotel

TOO MUCH STUFF? Let Classifieds help you sell it.

Picker Operator Bed Truck Operator Winch truck Operators Trades

850

All candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen. We offer exceptional wages and benefits for exceptional people. Fax resume and abstract to 403-314-2340 or email to safety@ PETROFIELD Industries, providencetrucking.ca the Leader in manufacturing Hydrovac trucks, is accepting Q TEST resumes for the following INSPECTION LTD. positions: Now has immediate * General Labourers openings for CGSB * Industrial Painters Level II RT’s and CEDO’s * Sandblasters for our winter pipeline * Material Handler projects. Top wages and * Automotive Electrical comprehensive benefit Technician package available. * Journeyman Welder / Subcontractors also welcome.

Apprentice Email resumes to: * 2nd Yr Welder with qtestltd@telus.net Aluminum experience or Phone 403-887-5630. * Production Manager

TANKMASTER RENTALS req’s Exp’d Class 1 Fluid Haulers for Central Alberta. Oilfield tickets req’d. Competitive wages and benefits. m.morton@tankmaster.ca or fax 403-340-8818 You can sell your guitar for a song... or put it in CLASSIFIEDS and we’ll sell it for you!

Visit our website at: www.tornadotrucks.com for more details. Our Company has an enthusiastic fast paced working environment, with advancement possibilities for the motivated person, and offers an excellent benefit package. fax 403-742-5544 e-mail: hr@petrofield.com Buying or Selling your home?

Check out Homes for Sale in Classifieds

Precast Concrete Plant in Blackfalds, AB, is looking for new team members to join an enthusiastic and growing company.

Concrete finisher

TANKMASTER RENTALS requires Labour Crew supervisor for Central Ab. Pipe fitting & light picker exp. would be an asset .

Oilfield tickets and clean driver’s licence req’d.

Competitive wages and benefits. m.morton@tankmaster.ca or fax 403-340-8818

ZUBAR Production Services is currently taking resumes for experienced Production Testing Personnel Email resume to: rdzubaroffice@telus.net or fax to (403)346-9420.

Must have all valid tickets.

Looking for a place to live?

Take a tour through the CLASSIFIEDS

needed to perform detailed and quality finishing as well as other related tasks, minimum 5 years experience. All applicants must be flexible for hours and dedicated due to a demanding production schedule. Own transportation to work is needed.

Wage will be based on experience, attitude and willingness to commit to long term employment.

Please fax resume to 403 885 5516 or email to k.kooiker@ eaglebuilders.ca Thank you to all applicants but only those selected for an interview will be notified.

Tar-ific Construction has a F/T position avail. for a H.D. Mechanic Apprentice. We offer competitive wages, combined with a deluxe benefit pckg. Drop resume at 7809 48 Ave. or fax to 403-340-1246 email tarific@telusplanet.net

Trades

850

United Tank Inspections Inc. is currently looking for a Full-Time Heavy Duty Mechanic for our Stettler, AB shop. You will be doing repairs, overhauls, maintenance, service, and CVIP’s on Heavy Trucks & Trailers. We offer competitive wages, group health benefits and group RSP. Please call 403-7424747 or email jobs@ unitedtank.ca

Truckers/ Drivers

860

Misc.

Help

880

Blue Grass Sod Farms Ltd. BOX 11, SITE 2, RR 1 Red Deer, AB Req’s Farm labourers for 2014 season (April-Oct) in Red Deer. Duties include sod farming and tree nursery. Tree nursery will involve planting, pruning and digging trees. Will train/exp. an asset. Wage $9.95 hr, 60 hrs weekly.

Email resume to steve. richardson@bg-rd.com Eagle Builders in Blackfalds, AB is looking for hard working, motivated individual to fill a full-time precast concrete erecting

laborer position

Central AB based trucking company requires

Owner Operators & Company Drivers in AB. Home the odd night. Weekends off. Late model tractor pref.

403-586-4558 F/T TRUCK drivers req’d.

Minimum Class 5 with air and clean abstract. Exp. preferred. In person to Key Towing 4083-78 St. Cres.

Red Deer.

Ponoka has openings for WINCH TRACTOR, PICKER OPERATORS & BED TRUCK DRIVERS for Branch and Winter Camp Jobs. Experience perferred, willing to train.

Competitive Wages and Benefits. Fax resume to (403) 783-3011 or e-mail hr@calnashtrucking. com www.calnashtrucking.com No phone calls please.

Only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

Misc.

Help

880

Academic Express ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING

WINTER START GED PREPARATION Jan. 14 or Feb. 10 STARTS Gov’t of Alberta Funding may be available.

403-340-1930 www.academicexpress.ca DISPATCHERS req’d.

Day/Night. Knowledge of Red Deer and area is essential. Verbal and written communication skills are req’d. Send resume by fax to 403-346-0295

at our company. Must be physically fit as this labourer position requires constant heavy lifting and involves fast paced, on the job training. Applicant must be able to travel and must have reliable transportation to and from work as well as a valid class 5 driver’s license. All meals and hotel expenses are paid when out of town. Successful applicant must provide an up to date drivers abstract. Construction experience an asset. Full benefits provided. Starting wages based on experience. Fax resumes to 403 885 5516 , must flag attn: Craig or e-mail to c.haan@eaglebuilders.ca.

Tired of Standing?

Find something to sit on in Classifieds

EXP’D parts person for small engine and quad dealership. F/T position.

Must be able to work Sat’s. and overtime hrs. may be req’d in summer months.

Please apply in person at 5717-40 Ave. Wetaskiwin or email: wetaskiwinrad@ xplornet.com

Looking for reliable newspaper carrier for 1 day per week delivery of the Central Alberta Life in the town of INNISFAIL Packages come ready for delivery.

No collecting.

Contact Quitcy at 403-314-4316

NEWSPAPER CARRIERS REQUIRED To deliver the SYLVAN LAKE NEWS & CENTRAL AB LIFE 1 day a week.

Misc.

Help

880

Firewood

1660

AFFORDABLE

Homestead Firewood NEWSPAPER CARRIERS REQUIRED For afternoon delivery once per week In the towns of: Blackfalds Lacombe Ponoka Stettler Call Rick for more info 403-314-4303

Contractors

1100

RMD RENOVATIONS Bsmt’s, flooring, decks, etc.

Call Roger 403-348-1060

Massage Therapy

1280

Spruce & Pine - Split 7 days/wk. 403-304-6472 Looking for a new pet?

Check out Classifieds to find the purrfect pet.

LOGS Semi loads of pine, spruce, tamarack, poplar.

Price depends on location.

Lil Mule Logging 403-318-4346 Now Offering Hotter, Cleaner BC Birch. All Types. P.U. / Delivery. Lyle 403-783-2275

Household Appliances

ELECTRIC heater oak cabinet portable, remote, thermostat control $150 403-314-2026

Household Furnishings

LOOKING FOR F/T Registered Massage Therapist in busy salon & spa in Drumheller. LONG waiting list of clients.

Please call 403-823-6161 or email boldefexx@ hotmail.com Attn: Cindy

Misc.

Services

1290

Ironman Scrap Metal Recovery picking up scrap again! Farm machinery, vehicles & industrial. Serving Central AB. 403-318-4346

Classifieds...costs so little Saves you so much!

Auctions

1530

BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS SALES EVERY WED. @ 6 pm.

Moose Hall 2 miles south of Ponoka on 2A WE BUY FOR CASH. 403-304-4791 Check website for full listing www.bigstrapperauctions.net

1580

Please call Debbie at 403-314-4307

Children's Items

CELEBRATIONS HAPPEN EVERY DAY IN CLASSIFIEDS

CUSTOM made baby change table w/drawers $70 403-347-5648

1720

FREE! 39” Boxspring & mattress. Sheets & pillow cases included.

403-347-6183 PHONE bench solid oak $175 403-314-2026

Executive Touch Massage (newly reno’d) Misc. for (FOR MEN)STUDIO 5003A-50 st. Downtown 9 am - 6 pm. Mon. - Fri. 403-348-5650

1710

Sale

1760

5 shelf wall unit 81”h x 50”w, adjustable shelves $70; 15 saw horses 36”w x 27”h $8/ea, chrome plated 12 bottle wine rack $10 403-314-2026 LOUIS L’Amour pocket books 95 cents ea. or all 28 for $16 403-342-7460 LOVESEAT, with arm covers, exc. cond. $125; Kanon 920 copier machine w/metal stand, exc. cond. $75 403-352-8811 POTTERY, soup set with urn & ladle, 4 bowls, casserole dish & salad bowl w/4 plates, like new. $125, Danby microwave oven 900 watts, $30; 2 matching suitcases, like new $25. for both; 403-352-8811 STORBURN Propane toilet system. Ideal for cabin or remote camp. $750. Firm 403-302-0987 WOODEN slider rocker chair and ottoman, good cond, $95; 3 wool accent matching carpets, clean, will sell seperatly $50 for all 3. 403-352-8811

Cats

1830

3 FRIENDLY MALE ORANGE KITTENS. Litter trained. Desperately need loving homes. FREE. 403-782-3130 Classifieds Your place to SELL Your place to BUY

BALINESE KITTEN $50. 403-887-3649

14 Lacombe Express

1840

Dogs

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Grain, Feed Hay

2190

ROUND hay bales. Cheap Free delivery. Self unloading. No Sunday calls Please. 403-843-6380 SMALL SQUARE HAY and straw 403-340-3061

Suites

3060

MOUNTVIEW, bsmt. suite, 1 bdrm. + den, full bath, 4 appls., great location. $975. incld’s utils. & cable.

N/S, no pets. 403-350-0913

Rooms For Rent

3090

SMALL Square Hay Bales: EXTRA FLUFFY 1st & 2nd cut. & extremely cute! Teacup SMALL Square Straw Bales Room, Avail. immed. $600.

Babydoll Morkies†(very tiny).

403-784-2276 + dd 403-505-4777 Call 587-987-3422 or email wendyschedel@gmail.com Celebrate your life with a Classified Storage ANNOUNCEMENT Sporting Space

1860

Goods

GOLF travel bag, w/wheels, hard cover $50. soft cover $40, very good cond. 403-346-0093

Horses

2140

WANTED: all types of horses. Processing locally in Lacombe weekly.

403-651-5912

3160

Houses/ Duplexes

3020

3 BDRM. in Sylvan. 4 appls., fenced yard. No pets. All utils. incl. 403-347-6033 4 BDRM. house, 2 full baths, near schools and bus route, avail. Jan. 1, 2014, $1450 rent, DD $1100 no pets, 403-343-6229 304-3979.

2 SPEC HOMES Ready for your colours.

Can be shown at any time.

10 & 98 MacKenzie Cres.

Lacombe. 403-588-8820

Start your career!

See Help Wanted

Condos/ Townhouses

4040

Mobile Lot

3190

PADS $450/mo.

Brand new park in Lacombe.

Spec Mobiles. 3 Bdrm., 2 bath. As Low as $75,000.

Down payment $4000. Call at anytime. 403-588-8820

For a chance to work at a GM Auto Dealership located in a growing, small city environment.

Lacombe has all the amenities of the City and the Small Town Lifestyle.

We are looking for an

AUTOMOTIVE TECH

• With good communication skills and work ethics • Great benefits & hours • Production Bonus • Training Provided • Full Time/Long Term We need you at this Award Winning GM Dealership!

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BLACKFALDS

PROFESSIONAL PHARMACY 5049 Parkwood Road, Blackfalds Phone:

Commercial Property

4110

42,000 sq ft Office/ Residential Building, Red Deer, AB Built in 2011. 21 separately titled units consisting of 16 executive condos and 4 commercial suites, Zero Tenant Vacancy, 10 year triple net leases in place, expiring 2021. Assumable mortgage.

Price - $8,400,000.00 Accepting Offers Christine@ andersonbuildersgroup. com

Industrial Property

SHOP and Office for sale or lease. 4300 sq. ft. on 7.5 Acres in Blackfalds.

Call 403-350-8431

APPLY NOW

•Travel Vaccinations •Ostomy Supplies •Shingles Vaccine •Compounding •Breast Pump Rentals

4020

Houses For Sale

4120

RIVERSIDE INDUSTRIAL heated warehouse & office space. 5,280 sq. ft.

Available immediately.

403-588-4081

CONDO FOR SALE

Cars

5030

Trucks

Auto Wreckers

5030

Sylvan Lake 1 Bedroom + 2000 Chrysler Neon, 2L, 4 dr., Den condo for sale in Cars 2007 FORD F-150 Lariat 5 spd. Clean. 403-318-3040 Sylvan Lake. Available Ltd. Leather., sunroof, January 1st. $164,800.

Please call (403) 302-7230 2001 HYUNDAI Accent 2 1999 PONTIAC Bonneyville tonneau cover, $15,888.

403-348-8788 Sport & Import dr. red, 403-348-2999 4 dr., saftied. 403-352-6995 for additional info

www.drakeex.ca

Your Quality Excavating Solution

Misc.

Automotive

5240

FREE removal of scrap vehicles. Will pay cash for some. 403-304-7585

Careers Successful Careers

Start Here

Arnett & Burgess is now accepting applications for the following:

CLASS 1 TRUCK DRIVER Must have experience moving heavy equipment that is related to pipeline construction.

Clean abstract.

Competitive wage.

Benefits available.

Please fax resumes to 780-372-4238 Or email to: jobs@abpipeliners.com

Black Press, an independently owned newspaper company is looking for a full time Sales Representative for our Lacombe paper.

Must be a professional, task-oriented, energetic individual. The ideal candidate will possess a solid background in customer service. Marketing or sales experience is a definite asset but not imperative. The ability to multi-task and attention to detail is key. Strong written, computer and verbal communications skills are an absolute must.

This position requires a reliable vehicle.

This full time, Sales Representative position is a base plus commission position.

Interested candidates should forward their resume in confidence to: Email: publisher@reddeerexpress.com Or mail to: Red Deer Express #121 5301 43 Street, Red Deer, Alberta • T4N 1C8 Attention: Publisher Competition closing date: December 19, 2013 Only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

No phone calls please.

Service Directory Advertise your service or business here for 3 weeks and receive the 4th week

Call 403.782.5303

403.304.3887

5190

5200

403-600-2243

Now Available

5180

RED’S AUTO. Free Scrap 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 ALL WHEEL DRIVE Vehicle & Metal Removal.

Hybrid, 4X4, 6.0L, nav., 2007 530 XI BMW. Original AMVIC APPROVED. 81,735 kms, $28,888 Owner, 143,000 km. Exc. Cond.

We travel. May pay cash 403-348-8788 Sport & Import Regularly Maintained, for vehicle. 403-396-7519 Fully Loaded!

Call 403-350-4323 Looking for a place Vehicles to live?

Wanted Take a tour through the To Buy CLASSIFIEDS RED’S AUTO. Free scrap vehicle & metal removal.

We travel. May pay cash for vehicle. AMVIC APPROVED. 403-396-7519

ABSOLUTELY FREE

•Skidsteer Services •Gravel Hauling •Excavating • Snow Removal

Tires, Parts Acces.

12V BATTERY Group 24 CC610 load tested at 590 $65 403-357-9664

403-600-2280 Fax:

5050

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CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION

For All Your Excavation Needs 403.782.3437

www.dbbobcat.com

Lacombe Express 15

Thursday, December 12, 2013

SPORTS Junior curling program keeps sport strong

BY BRIAN VOSSEN Lacombe Express You are (almost) never too young to start curling.

Once a week during the curling season, Lacombe Curling Club runs a junior curling program. It is well attended every week with some of the curlers as young as five years old.

Mandy Peakman, manager of the Lacombe Curling Club, said that getting and keeping young curlers involved in the sport is beneficial both for the individuals and the sport itself.

“It’s a lifelong sport,” said Peakman.

“You see five-year-olds out here and then you see someone who is 85-yearsold out here. It’s investment in a physical activity for life, really.”

Peakman added that there is a social camaraderie that comes with curling, teamwork and belonging to a club. She also said it’s a good way for newcomers of any age to get involved with the community.

Lacombe’s junior curling program meets every Friday during the curling season. Most of the equipment is loaned or donated by other curlers and the juniors need to provide little equipment of their own outside a pair of runners.

Gwen Farnsworth, who has been in charge of the program for the last few years, said the children take well to the program and many keep coming back year after year.

“Curling has always tried to keep the young people involved.”

Farnsworth started helping out with the junior curling program in Lacombe since she moved here in 1998 and has been running it herself for the past four or five years.

But the program was running even before then and has been going strong for over 20 years.

Coaching the junior program seemed like a natural fit for Farnsworth, she said. She had previously worked for the Alberta Curling Federation and helped out with curling summer camps and Learn to Curl clinics for several years.

As with many coaches and instructors, Farnsworth said her favourite part of coaching is watching the pro-

gression of the players’ skills. She added that she really enjoys seeing how young curlers develop a mind for the strategy of the game.

Lacombe’s junior curling program teaches more or less the same skills that adult curlers use and practice, said Farnsworth.

The difference is the techniques and how they are taught and adapted to fit the abilities of the younger players.

For example, many young curlers have trouble throwing a rock hard enough to get it down the full sheet of ice. To remedy this problem , the junior curling program has smaller rocks for the younger curlers so they can still practice that aspect of the game.

“We modify most of it to accommodate the age group,” said Farnsworth.

During practices, the junior curlers are divided by their age groups on different sheets of the curling ice. Farnsworth said there are two main age groups, 5-11 and 12 and up.

There is more of a focus on learning than competing in the junior program, but there is some competition, said Farnsworth. At the end of the season, the younger curlers, those aged between five and 11, have a bonspiel and get a chance to test what they have learned.

As the older curlers, those aged 12 and over, don’t have the numbers for a league, they are welcome to compete in other bonspiels throughout the year, though this is independent of the program, said Farnsworth.

Farnsworth added that curling is a sport pretty much anyone can play at any age. She said that many modifications have been made to the sport to accommodate those who have mobility problems that come with age or other physical challenges.

In February of next year, Lacombe will host the Boston Pizza Cup, the Alberta Men’s Curling Championship.

Through this event, Lacombe’s young curlers and the community as a whole will get to see some of the best curlers in the world compete.

Peakman said that this is a great way to show young curlers where their skills can take them and give them exposure to the broader world of curling. news@lacombeexpress.com

SLIDING STUDENT - Treydon Thien, 13, practices his slide during a junior curling session at the Brian Vossen/Lacombe Express Lacombe Curling Club late last week.

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16 Lacombe Express

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Lacombe/Blackfalds...

We want your input.

We would like to receive ‘Letters to the Editor’ as well as local story ideas from the community.

Please submit to the Lacombe Express editor at news@lacombeexpress.com or call 403-782-5306

Save The Stamps Have your Season’s Greetings delivered to over 7 7,000 000 homes in the City of Lacombe & Blackfalds.

December 19th the Express will publish a special greeting section for businesses to thank their clients, customers and sen out their special wishes for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season. friends for their support in 2013 and to send

from your favourite s ’ n o s Sea etings local businesses Gre Take this opportunity to wish your clients & customers a Happy Holiday Ho Ho Holiday Greetings to all our readers!

To: Our Advertisers!

Thank you for all your support in 2013

Greetings Space (3.25” x 1.75”)

Wishing Wishing all all of of our our Carriers Carriers a a Wonderful Wonderful Holiday Holiday Season!

Season!

d ll! n a e Pedawcill to a goo

To book your space call Karina @ 403-782-5330 or Tanya @ 403-782-5303

before Monday, December 16 @ noon

Lacombe Express 17

Thursday, December 12, 2013

ARTS & LEISURE Sparkling holiday charms aplenty in The Nutcracker Production runs Dec. 13-14 at the Arts Centre in Red Deer

BY MARK WEBER Lacombe Express There are lots of fresh, colourful touches to this year’s rendition of the seasonal classic The Nutcracker, staged at the Red Deer College Arts Centre.

The production runs Dec. 14 at 1:30 and 7 p.m. and Dec. 15 at 1:30 p.m. on the Arts Centre mainstage.

Director Tania Strader has been with the production since 1999, and has been directing it since 2002.

“I love the magic of Christmas and The Nutcracker is part of the Christmas season just as much as candy canes and gingerbread,” she explains. “A lot of the dancers I only see for this nutty season and I look forward to seeing them year after year.”

Strader said she also truly looks forward to meeting new dancers who are making The Nutcracker part of their Christmas tradition as well.

“I love how the dancers are all here for the same thing - to make this year’s production more magical than the last,” she said.

“Whether it be through their dancing or the support and love they show towards each other, it is equally important. We are one family that has grown twice in size this year with a cast of approximately 80 dancers ranging from ages four to adult.”

It’s certainly a big cast to work with, but Strader welcomes the challenge.

“I was excited for such an unusually large cast,” she said, noting that of course there are a few challenges with this as well. “I am thrilled that so many local dancers want to share the magic of Christmas through their dancing. It was challenging trying to rethink the production with so many more dancers being involved but exciting at the same time.”

Even after a century, Tchaikovsky’s perfect score and epic battle of mice and toy soldiers still draw holiday crowds wherever The Nutcracker is performed.

The Nutcracker ballet is based on a book called The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, published by German writer E.T.A. Hoffman in 1816.

Hoffman, a writer, composer, caricaturist, and painter, was

known for his stories in which supernatural characters reveal people’s hidden secrets.

Of course, there’s the sweeping, elegant score written by Tchaikovsky as well. He began work on the project in early 1892 before beginning a tour of the United States, completing it later that summer.

Clara receives a cherished Nutcracker from her mysterious Aunt Drosselmier.

After everyone has gone to bed for the evening, strange things begin to happen. Clara watches as rats and soldiers battle for victory.

She is guided through falling snow and taken to the Land of Sweets where sweets from around the world dance in her honour.

Many versions of the story have been published as children’s books, and it’s been said that in his stories Hoffmann combined wild flights of imagination with vivid and convincing examinations of human character and psychology.

As a ballet, The Nutcracker made its première at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg in December of 1892.

Audiences are invited to settle in for an unforgettable journey; a tale that hasn’t remotely lost its sense of wonder. And Strader also works to provide a few fresh touches from year to year.

“The story line has stayed traditional with a few, fresh twists,” she said.

“For example, when the Rat King is defeated and the spell over the Nutcracker is broken, the spell is also broken over the Sugar Plum Princess and her true identity is revealed.

“Together, the prince and princess travel back to their castle in the Land of the Sweets for a celebration in their honour.

“Here the audience will be introduced to some new characters - so fitting to our wide range of dancers.

“The Nutcracker is as traditional as the Christmas tree which makes it loved by all who watch it year after year,” points out Strader. “People find comfort in tradition and The Nutcracker is there year after year to provide that to its viewers.”

Tickets are available by visiting www.bkticketcentre.ca or by calling 403-755-6626. editor@reddeerexpress.com

CHRISTMAS CLASSIC - Breanna Nagy, rehearses a scene from The Nutcracker. Performances run this weekend at the Red Deer College Arts Centre.

Jenna Swan/Lacombe Express

ARTS & LEISURE

18 Lacombe Express

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Soprano singer returns to Central Alberta Nicole Brooks’ performance to benefit the Ringa School in Kenya

BY BRIAN VOSSEN Lacombe Express This weekend, soprano singer Nicole Brooks will be returning to Central Alberta to perform at St. Andrew’s United Church in Lacombe.

Brooks said she is looking forward to the homecoming.

“I love coming home and singing for everyone around there,” said Brooks.

She added that she enjoys performing for friends and family as they do not have much exposure for this style of music.

“I love coming and bringing something different and interesting to them.”

Hailing from Wetaskiwin, Brooks started her singing career at the age of 14 when she began taking voice lessons from Melrose Randell in Lacombe.

As a child, Brooks loved to sing but had no interest in formal training.

“I would sing all over the house all the time,” said Brooks.

Eventually, with the encouragement of her mother, Brooks decided to try voice lessons. She quickly learned that she had a talent for singing and a voice for opera.

Brooks added she found that strange as she knew nothing about opera.

Recognizing Brooks’ talent, her instructor, Randell, urged her to continue her classical training, telling Brooks that, if she had classical training she could sing any genre of music she liked.

“Melrose was a very large part of encouraging me to continue.”

As she continued her musical training, Brooks slowly developed a strong love for music, even the operatic style she previ-

ously had no interest in. She said that she took part in some opera competitions and finished very well, winning many of them, which spurred her further to continue her training.

Before taking voice lessons, Brooks had also started studying piano at the age of eight.

She continued playing the piano until the end of high school, but said it hasn’t really stuck with her the way singing has.

Brooks said that while she had little interest in opera originally, the more she was exposed to it the more she began to enjoy it.

“I think part of it for me was I didn’t know much about (opera),” said Brooks.

“When you don’t know much about something, it’s hard to have an appreciation for it. So as I was exposed to more of it, I started to fall in love with it.”

Anyone who has heard opera before knows there are some pretty impressive feats of voice involved in the art.

As a soprano, Brooks sings in the highest pitch of all opera singers.

While hitting some of those notes might

seem like a superhuman feat to some, Brooks said it just comes with a lot of practice.

“It’s a lot of training.” She added that, for herself, a natural ability helps. “I always could sing high, I didn’t really have to work a lot at high notes.”

Opera singers train to learn breath control and practice techniques that allow reaching any notes easier.

Today, Brooks attends the University of British Columbia where she is studying for a degree in music with a major in opera performance. Brooks added she plans to remain at UBC and pursue her master’s after obtaining her bachelor’s degree in hopes of having a career as an opera singer.

Brooks performs as part of An Evening of Classical Music at St. Andrew’s United Church on Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

Admission to the concert is free but donations to the local humanitarian organization A Better World are accepted.

All proceeds raised at the event will go to feeding the children and building sanitary structures at the Ringa School in Kenya. news@lacombeexpress.com

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Lacombe Express 19

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Horoscope ARIES

TAURUS

Mar 21/Apr 20

Apr 21/May 21

Aries, handle some unfinished

Taurus, when you wear your

business and establish

heart on your sleeve for

clear priorities. Otherwise,

everyone to see, you cannot

you may turn what could

be shy about expressing your

be a productive week into

emotions. Friends may be

something frustrating.

skeptical of you though.

GEMINI May 22/Jun 21

CANCER Jun 22/Jul 22

Gemini, don’t be shy about

Expect your ideas to take

sharing unique plans with

shape over the next couple of

HOW TO PLAY: Fill-in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3x3 box.

your loved ones. The

days, Cancer. Concrete plans

support of friends and family

will materialize as you begin

members will only restore

to pull thoughts from your

your confidence in this new

imagination. The results will

direction.

be unique.

LEO

VIRGO

Jul 23/Aug 23

Aug 24/Sept 22

You probably are not

Virgo, you are quite

interested in inching along

comfortable sharing your

this week, Leo. Though it’s

thoughts now that you have

good to attack a project with

gotten some things worked

gusto, don’t rush so much

out. It’s now much easier to

that you make mistakes.

talk about future possibilities.

LIBRA Sept 23/Oct 23

SCORPIO Oct 24/Nov 22

Decoding all of the mixed

Scorpio, you are not in the

signals coming your way

mood to play games, so

won’t be easy, Libra. The

you will want to push your

only thing you can do for the

romantic relationship to the

moment is to take each signal

next level. You will have no

one at a time.

problem leading the way.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23/Dec 21

CAPRICORN Dec 22/Jan 20

Opportunities to address

Capricorn, you will ride a

your physical well-being

creative wave for the next

present themselves this week,

several days. Inspiration will

Sagittarius. Make the most of

strike when you least expect

these opportunities to make a

it. You should have some time

significant change.

for play.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Jan 21/Feb 18

Feb 19/Mar 20

Aquarius, expect some

Pisces, it can be easy to get

support from family members

swept away by other people’s

and close friends. Receive their generosity as warmly as you can, even if you’re feeling a bit smothered.

ANSWER

agendas when you attempt to lend a helping hand. Do your best to pitch in.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Binder 5. Move up and down 11. Wild sheep of northern Africa 12. Annoys 16. An upward movement 17. Ducktail 18. Town in central Minnesota 19. Philatelist’s delight 24. Carrier’s invention 25. Foreign travellers 26. Aurochs 27. Batter advanced score 28. Show the way 29. Steep rugged mass of rock 30. Valley 31. Digital data device 33. Insert mark 34. Breakout 38. Dissention from dogma 39. Kuhil and clown fish

40. Unconsciousness 43. Czech River 44. Johann Sebastian 45. Flows to the Danube at Belgrade 49. World data organization (abbr.)

50. Comedian Sahl 51. Porch furniture wood 53. Potato state 54. American Pickers 56. Yellow-fever mosquitos 58. Edison’s company 59. Axis and offshoot angle 60. Standard 63. Blame (Scottish) 64. Esoteric 65. Pronounces

CLUES DOWN 1. Any wrist bone 2. Baltimore bird 3. Czar’s nation 4. Regulated food

5. Space next to someone 6. Expunction 7. Trauma center 8. Spanish yes 9. Matters 10. Twist out of shape 13. Toward 14. Renders able for a task 15. An extended social group 20. Article 21. GMA anchor’s initials 22. Streetcar 23. Summer month (abbr.)

27. Not widely distributed 29. Plays great music 30. Female 1776 descendants 31. Speed gauge ratio 32. Old English 33. After B 34. Expressing sorrow 35. More hearty, firmer 36. Taxis

37. Single pip card 38. 50th state 40. A source of worry 41. Eight sided 42. Highest military valor award (abbr.)

44. Former Harvard Pres.

Derek 45. Drinking tubes 46. Loss of coordination 47. Self-love 48. Talus joints 50. Accumulator 51. Rural delivery 52. Lady Soul’s initials 54. Prefix indicating abstraction 55. Hawaiian goose 57. Prince William’s mom, Lady __ 61. Aid organization (abbr.)

62. Farm state

ANSWER

20 Lacombe Express

Thursday, December 12, 2013

THREE DAY SALE DECEMBER 13-15

Country Morning Gold Thick Sliced Side Bacon 1kg - First 1

each

$

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Pineapple Ripe & Ready to Eat Imported

2 for

5

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Coke or Pepsi Products

10-12x355ml - First 3

3 for

9.99

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plus deposit/enviro

Broccoli Crowns

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99¢lb 3 Pack - Imported

7

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White or Whole Wheat Package of 12

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5

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No. 1 Grade Produce of U.S.A

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