Lacombe Express, January 15, 2015

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NEW SKILLS: Lacombe students explore the art of robot building in new school club – PG 3

UNIQUE TUNES: The Johnny McCuaig Band is set to play Fratters in Red Deer – PG 15

BIG WIN: The Blackfalds Wranglers add another win to their season earlier this week – PG 17

HIGH FLYER - Josh Kiat gets some serious air from one of the many jumps at Riders’ Rush, a cable park located in Blackfalds, during a recent demo day.

Sarah Maetche/Lacombe Express

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Thursday, January 15, 2015

Local students explore robot building via Lego École Lacombe Upper Elementary School’s club proving a popular venture

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Lacombe Express

É

cole Lacombe Upper Elementary School (ELUES) has a cool new club that allows students to build functional robots with Lego pieces.

The First Lego League program runs internationally in over 50 countries, with worldwide and regional challenges.

With sponsorship from Dow Chemical Co., the school has been able to create its first club this year.

“All you’re really doing, to make it simple, is building a Lego robot that does multiple tasks like collecting rings or throwing a ball. In the club, there are different things people can do – there is programming, building and presenting.

Everybody gets to pick a job they like, but we still get to do other things,” said Quinn Eberts, 11, a programmer and builder in the club.

“The teamwork makes it really fun and I’ve enjoyed all the different things you can do. It’s almost limitless to what you can do with the robot. You can design it however you want while still getting it to do the tasks.”

Quinn is one of 30 students in the First Lego League. Vice Principal Ian Wilson said that the response from the students was so overwhelming, they had to conduct an application process to narrow down the amount of kids who were able to take part for now.

Wilson said that there are quite a few benefits of the program. Students from ELUES get to work with students of Lacombe Comprehensive High School, as well as Dow workers with titles like electrical engineers. It allows the school to form community partnerships and the students to develop mentorship relationships as they work through their projects.

“Every week, we go back to the Comp and work with their robotics teacher Mr. Steven Schultz, who helps us by teaching the programming and helping the kids build the field where the robots do the tasks,” Wilson said.

“So far, the kids have built two fields and now they are in the point of building robots themselves. We have pretty well built four or five robots already. Now the task is to get the robots programmed to do the 10 tasks from opening doors to picking up balls and putting them in nets, to picking up rings and transporting them from one area to another.”

The competitions of First Lego League work with electronic mats that are constructed and programmed to facilitate

COOL CLUB – Griffin Frook, 10, takes time to check over one of the robots from the First Lego League with schoolmate Sydney Sullivan, 11, at École Lacombe Upper Elementary School. photo submitted 10 tasks. The tasks range from catching rings, to throwing or moving objects, among more.

Each robot is then guided with electrical programming to read actions such as backing up, turning, changes in speed and motion sequences to move around the mat and complete the designated tasks.

“One of the benefits of this program is just getting the kids connected to a team – they get to learn that teams don’t just happen as a part of sports. If they aren’t athletic or connected to the school in any other way, this could be for them.

“Something we have seen is kids getting to work together who maybe wouldn’t have before,” Wilson said.

“When you compare Lego pieces today with what they were 30 years ago, these kids are very savvy when it comes to building. They have a visual side to them, and have been building with Lego for a number of years. There are a few kids who have been to science camps and have already built robots in the past. They come in with some knowledge and background,

and then get a leadership role. They can take the lead on some of these projects,” Quinn said that the partnership with the high school students and adults from Dow was a good part of the program. He said that he enjoys being able to learn from the other people in the program and that he is considering continuing on with the First Lego League program next year.

For Quinn, a lot of the excitement of the program rests in the future.

“It’s cool to think about what you can do in the future on other robots. We’ve seen some robots that scrunch down or get really tall and that’s cool to see. In competitions, it will be nice to see what some of the other kids think of,” he said.

Unfortunately, Lacombe Upper Elementary will not be competing in the 2015 First Lego League challenges. Wilson said this is simply due to them getting a bit of a later start on the program than other schools. He said that next year the school would take part in competitions.

He added that he is excited for some of the students at ELUES to move up in

their grades and have a program to look forward too, and that the continuation of the projects is exciting for the kids.

“This year, there is a teacher at the junior high who is running an option course for First Lego League.

“These kids will be able to go to the junior high and continue on, then move into the high school robotics. That is a longterm benefit of the program. It might end up being a nine-year program for some kids in Lacombe,” he said.

“These competitions are international, so when the kids see that what they do here on a smaller scale will eventually be amazing, that is phenomenal for them.

They will get to build their own robots and eventually compete against other schools and other countries.

“We did limit it to Grade five and six because of the numbers. We think it’s a great addition to our school. When we look at the long-term benefits, and where it could take us as a school, it’s very exciting.”

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4 Lacombe Express

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Hefty price tag for new City fire truck

BY SARAH MAETCHE Lacombe Express The Lacombe Fire Department is set to receive a much-needed new fire truck, but it comes with a hefty price tag.

City council approved the tender of the new pumper engine during their regular council meeting on Jan. 12th.

Fire Chief Ed van Delden told council the replacement of Engine 1 was envisioned some time ago.

“The City’s Engine 1 is a cab-over design fire truck built in 1990,” he said.

“The truck serves as the City’s primary fire suppression unit within the City and is also the primary pumping unit for the City.

“The unit is 100 per cent owned by the City and is funded entirely from City sources.”

The replacement of the soon-to-be 25-year-old truck was mainly driven from a

reliability perspective and also by the fact that it would no longer be considered insurable by insurance underwriters in regards to protection grades, said van Delden.

“THE TRUCK SERVES AS THE CITY’S PRIMARY FIRE SUPPRESSION UNIT WITHIN THE CITY AND IS ALSO THE PRIMARY PUMPING UNIT FOR THE CITY. ” ED VAN DELDEN In 2013, a committee was formed to develop a list of operational and safety requirements for the replacement of Engine 1.

Lacombe City council included the replacement of the truck in the 2014 capital budget.

Three bids in total were received by the

CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

LOCAL MICROBREWERY IN THE WORKS

Following in the City of Red Deer’s footsteps, Lacombe may soon be the home of a local microbrewery.

Lacombe City council approved first reading to amend a bylaw to consider a microbrewery as a discretionary use in commercial districts of the City at their regular council meeting on Jan 12th.

Director of Planning and Operations Matthew Goudy told council an application was received for a microbrewery, which is a licensed facility where craft beers are produced and packaged.

A public hearing will be held on Feb. 9th before council proceeds to second and third reading.

SMALL INCREASE IN UTILITY RATES FOR LACOMBE RESIDENTS At their regular meeting this week, City council passed a resolution to approve the Utility Rate Bylaws 70.42 and 316.11 in order to set the 2015 utility rates for water, waste water and solid waste services.

The combined average for residential

by Sarah Maetche

customers sits at 0.87% while the average commercial customer will see an increase of 3.23%, City officials say.

The 2015 operating budget, which was adopted in December, included the estimated rates.

The rates are effective Jan. 1st.

INDUSTRIAL TRAFFIC ROUTES The City has locked in a new truck haul route.

The bylaw also addresses overweight industrial vehicles that enter the Lacombe City limits.

Much public concern was received regarding trucks going down 50th Ave., the use of C & E Trail and 63rd Ave. as well as use of Hwy. 2 and Hwy. 2A as bypass options.

Council took in the public input and considered the impact on industry.

Third and final reading of Bylaw 223.12. was approved.

“We are not a unique community,” said Mayor Steve Christie in regards to the amount of industrial traffic the downtown core sees.

“This is all over the place.”

City, which were all well over the original budgeted amount.

Rocky Mountain Phoenix, an Americanbased company, was awarded the tender as the selected bidder that met all of the needed requirements.

The original projected cost in 2013 for the truck was set at $350,000.

With the added cost of meeting compliance standards, inflation, the addition of a foam supply unit, the depreciation of the Canadian dollar and an additional $4,000 for outfitting the truck, including nozzles, clamps and other hardware, the total price tag for the truck sits at $573,300.

To meet the funding shortfall, council voted in favour of moving $100,000 from

the fire reserve and $123,300 from the MSI Capital Grant. van Delden noted that most fire suppression equipment is manufactured in the United States, this means the City faces additional costs when the Canadian dollar plummets.

Councillor Grant Harder noted that the truck was $216,000 over the original budgeted amount for 2014.

“That was a terrible inaccurate forecast,” he said.

Council voted unanimously in favour of the expenditure.

The new truck is expected to be ready next year. news@lacombeexpress.com

Abbey Centre receives Collaborative Community Project award The Town of Blackfalds can add another notch in its belt after receiving an award for the Abbey Master Builder Centre.

At the Central Alberta Economic Partnership (CAEP) fall general meeting on Nov. 27th, it was announced the Town received the 2014 award.

The award recognizes a CAEP rural or urban municipal project that has received a high level of community involvement and has substantial community benefit.

The town was one of seven nominees, and as such, the award is a testament to the extent of support and involvement from community agencies, businesses, individuals and municipal partners in bringing the Abbey Centre to fruition.

While the Abbey Centre has also received recognition from other prestigious provincial municipal recreational organizations in 2014, the Collaborative Community Project award is significant and special in that it acknowledges the achievements of the entire community in

making the dream of the Abbey Centre a reality.

It took the dedication of hundreds of resident and area volunteers along with the generous support of numerous local nonprofit organizations, businesses, developers and government partners to bring about the amenities and programming that are now in place to meet the needs of those in the community and their visitors.

The award will be displayed at the Abbey Centre, but it belongs to everyone who played a role during the past eight years in bringing the Abbey Centre to life, officials say.

The Town of Blackfalds has been a municipal member of CAEP for many years.

The annual awards ceremony recognizes and rewards the success of CAEP’s members and organizations for collaborative efforts, volunteerism and community development across the region.

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Lacombe Express 5

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Jeff Rock named as Liberal candidate for local riding

BY ERIN FAWCETT Lacombe Express A Red Deer minister has been named the Liberal candidate for the new riding of Red Deer – Lacombe for the upcoming federal election this fall.

Members of the Red Deer - Lacombe Federal Liberal Association met this past Sunday and nominated Jeff Rock as the Liberal Party of Canada candidate in Red Deer - Lacombe for the next general election.

Rock, minister at Gaetz United Church in Red Deer, said he has always been interested in politics.

“It has always been something that has been in the back of my mind,” he said. “It’s really the team approach that Justin Trudeau has taken that helped me feel like it was time to put my energy and my time where my mouth was. To me politics is a process and part of being a citizen is being engaged in that process.”

Rock has served as the board chair of the Central Alberta AIDS Network Society, he has sat on the City

of Red Deer’s Downtown Redevelopment Plan Committee and is the founding chair of the Red Deer Interfaith Network.

In the coming months, Rock said he is looking forward to getting out and engaging with people.

“Because it’s a new riding there’s not a huge bank of volunteers in the riding association, so just like Justin Trudeau has, I want to take a team approach and get as many people involved as possible and have as many people having conversations as possible,” he said.

“Because the riding is large and contains both rural and urban settings, it will be important to have those conversations with both urban and rural people. We haven’t done that very well in Canada, I don’t think.

“I look forward to talking with people and finding out what Central Albertans are passionate about.”

He added although the Liberal party has yet to finalize their platform for the upcoming election, Rock said there are some

key points to look at.

“If you look at the Keystone Pipeline rejection in the United States – that affects us as Albertans,” he said. “The price of gas is going to start hurting us pretty soon, if not already.

It’s nice to fill up (for less) but it has real drastic effects on the Alberta economy. I say where ever you are on the spectrum of oil and gas, you should be upset right now because Stephen Harper has denied

climate change to the point that Canada’s oil and gas is no longer marketable.

“The goal of the leader should be to bring Canadian products to international markets. One of my key beliefs is that the environment and economics should be talked about together – they are not opposing forces. I think this will be a huge issue in the coming months in Central Alberta.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

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Man charged with drug possession

BY SARAH MAETCHE Lacombe Express A Blackfalds man has been charged with drug possession after a third similar incident in Lacombe over the past two weeks.

On the morning of Jan. 13th, a Lacombe Police Service member was on patrol in an industrial area in the east part of the City and observed a suspicious male walking in the area.

“The officer investigated further and determined the male to be wanted on outstanding warrants,” said Chief of Police Steve Murray of the Lacombe Police Service in a press release.

“Subsequent to the arrest, the male was found to be in possession of an quantity of methamphetamine as well as break-in instruments.”

Michael Bollinger, 36, of Blackfalds has been charged with numerous criminal offences including possession of a controlled substance, possession of break-in instruments and breach of conditions.

Bollinger was remanded into custody and will be attending Red Deer Provincial Court.

This was the third incident over the past two weeks where Lacombe Police Services have laid drug related charges against individuals.

“We know these types of people are coming to our community to violate the safety and sanctity of our residents and their property,” said Murray.

“The Lacombe Police Service intends to send a very strong message that this type of criminal behaviour will not be tolerated in our City and with the vigilance and support of our residents, combined with our 24-hour proactive policing, criminals will get caught if they choose to come here.” news@lacombeexpress.com

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6 Lacombe Express

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Thursday, January 15, 2015

OPINION Driven to distraction We’ve all seen it. That one driver who chooses to focus on their phone more than the road ahead of them.

This type of action is not only irresponsible, but is also incredibly unsafe and could cost someone’s life.

Since the province’s distracted driving law, which currently carries a $172 fine, was rolled out in 2011, the roads are supposed to be much safer.

Now after three years, its time to revisit this law and question whether it is working in getting the message across to drivers to change their habits.

A Calgary-East MLA would like the fine for distracted driving to be increased to $250 and to include along with the infraction, the loss of three demerit points for drivers.

Conservative MLA Moe

Amery introduced a private members bill in December during the fall legislature session, proposing tougher distracted driving legislation after hearing from many of his constituents.

Amery said he’s also spoken with many law enforcement officials who agree the law needs to be stronger when it comes to enforcement.

“I’ve talked to many, many officers and they’ve said we need something stiffer that the $172 fine,” said Amery during a press conference. “We’re in Alberta. People are working, people are making good money, good wages, so $172 is not that strong of a fine.”

Bill 204, the Traffic Safety (Distracted Driving Demerit) Amendment Act, passed first reading on Dec.

4th, but will likely be debated during the spring sitting. “I’ve got a lot of support from my constituents and I’ve got a lot of support from other people calling me and saying ‘it’s about time,’’ said Amery.

Calgary’s police chief has also called for demerits to penalize distracted drivers. Both have indicated the law appears not to be working and the problem is getting worse.

Alberta’s transportation minister has rejected the idea of tougher penalties for now, suggesting that most people are still getting used to the law.

Premier Jim Prentice has remained mostly silent, but indicated he would examine the law and speak to law enforcement regarding its effectiveness.

In theory, like all of our laws, the distracted

driving law is supposed to work. It seems drivers are willing to just pay the fine and continue on with their habits, without seeing many repercussions.

Back in 2011, some naysayers warned the government that in other jurisdictions, where there is similar legislation, the

distracted driving law might not be effective.

This begs the question, if the current law isn’t working, how sure are we that a slightly tougher law will?

A heftier penalty to distracted driving, in particular texting and driving, may wake up some drivers.

Growing forward in Lacombe this year With the dawn of a New Year, as we look forward to new beginnings and endeavors, to making plans and keeping resolutions, I would like to reaffirm my commitment as mayor to our citizens: that your council will continue the work of building and growing this City responsibly and sustainably by honouring our long history and rich heritage, and by being responsive to the needs and desires of our citizens.

Let us begin by reviewing some of our accomplishments over the past year and taking a look at some upcoming priorities for 2015.

After a successful solid waste pilot project in 2013, the municipality launched a singlestream residential blue box recycling program in spring 2014.

This new program improves the effectiveness and sustainability of waste management in our community.

Can Pak Environmental, the City’s service provider, diverted 358,350 kgs of recyclable material from the landfill last year.

Also last year, after hearing the concerns of our residents, council responded by undertaking a number of upgrades to the Lacombe Spray Park, including the addition of grass and shaded areas.

The enhanced spray park offers families a fun, safe and comfortable oasis to enjoy the summer weather.

One of the key priorities identified in council’s strategic plan was the development of a regional public transit service.

Steve

CHRISTIE We worked collaboratively with the Town of Blackfalds and the City of Red Deer to successfully launch BOLT Transit in 2014.

The regional bus service connects our three communities, and provides an important and affordable quality of life benefit for users.

Long awaited upgrades to Maple Drive were completed last fall, making the road safer for pedestrians and improving traffic flows.

This project has been in the making since 2002 and I am glad we were able to work with the Canadian University College to see it through to completion.

Site services at the Len Thompson Industrial Park Phase II were completed and the park is ready for light industrial development.

The 15-acre park has lots with layouts designed to provide future businesses with high visibility along Hwy. 2A, and easy access along Len Thompson Drive.

The industrial park is also the future home of the Planning and Operations Services Shop.

As well, staff completed the Whelp Brook Basin Study in 2014, which is a comprehensive stormwater strategy for

municipalities in the Wolf Creek and Whelp Brook watersheds.

The plan provides development guidelines to ensure future developments maintain the capacity and integrity of the streams within the drainage basin, preventing or reducing future flooding.

I am happy to report that the groundwork at Lacombe Market Square, formerly known as Wolf Creek Crossing, is well underway as they prepare to build a new commercial shopping centre this spring. This new development will attract new retailers, encourage economic growth and increase business and employment opportunities for residents.

My one election promise to voters was to bring a new hotel to Lacombe and last fall I was pleased to announce the construction of the 83-room Best Western Plus Inn and Suites by Michener Park.

Construction began in September and is scheduled for completion in late summer 2015.

The hotel will also feature a swimming pool and water slide, a fitness centre, conference spaces and a boardroom.

After much deliberation by council and public input, the City has committed $10.8 Million for renovations and upgrades to the Lacombe Sports and Leisure Complex, in order to ensure public safety and to accommodate future demand.

Work will be done in phases to

cause minimum disruption to user groups.

The detailed design of the new Lacombe Police Facility is nearing completion, and we are looking forward to construction commencing in spring 2015. This much anticipated facility will be better suited to meet the policing needs of our growing community.

Finally, when looking into the future, we must consider development on lands surrounding the City. The City of Lacombe and Lacombe County are moving forward this year with our Intermunicipal Plan Review.

The plan looks at land use and servicing of land on the peripheral of the City and how we might work cooperatively in the development of these lands.

As we move forward into the new millennium, council and staff will continue to work collaboratively with residents, service organizations, businesses and other stakeholders towards a more sustainable City.

We will enthusiastically look ahead to the future and plan for continued growth, build the necessary infrastructure, maintain our facilities and offer the services required to maintain and improve our collective standard of living.

We will work together as a community to ensure that the City of Lacombe remains the best place to live, work and play in Alberta.

Steve Christie is the mayor of Lacombe.

Lacombe Express 7

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Letters to the editor

Citizen says Lacombe needs more ice surfaces and modern dressing rooms for users In the community, any community, the children come first. The children must always come first.

Here in Lacombe, it is obvious that there are not enough ice surfaces to provide adequate amounts of time for practices and games of our local ice user groups, specifically the stakeholders such as Lacombe Minor Hockey teams, the local Ringette teams and any local ice sport user groups or teams.

Meanwhile, apparently, many millions of dollars have been approved by Lacombe City council to upgrade the Lacombe Recreation Facility, in order to bring those facilities up to code.

And, the fancy words for the cultural/performance arts centre, The C4 Initiative, is, I guess, going to proceed forward at a nearby other location in Lacombe, yet our Canadian culture, by and large, includes ice sports like hockey, figure skating and Ringette.

The C4 Initiative is a good thing, mind you, and the ‘doers and shakers’ have smoothly included a daycare facility to be one of the four facilities of the C4 Initiative.

That daycare is of course, a very good thing so applause all around that a facility has been included for those little children into the title of the C4 Initiative.

I was not elected to be a City councillor when I ran in the most recent local civic election for councillors in October 2013.

At that time, I mentioned that perhaps a C4 Initiative might include and could include 14 amenities or facilities as an idea.

Then it would be called maybe the C14 Initiative. So instead of only four facilities, it would be more inclusive of many local interest groups and include those performing arts because ‘C’ is for culture and should include ice sports as the part of the culture, along with those performing arts.

The children of Lacombe, that way, could be included if there were additional facilities for their interests and activities.

For example more room for minor hockey, ringette and several other activities which are not part of the C4 group of interests.

The C4 Initiative is a good project but there is a need in Lacombe to recognize that there are not enough ice surfaces for ice sports.

Ice sports are a large part of culture in Canada, in Alberta and in Lacombe.

Children should have priority in Lacombe. The ice surface facilities that are here were constructed at a time when Lacombe’s population was about four times less

than the current population size of our community.

And there is no ‘flagship’ team for any ice sport in Lacombe.

The senior hockey team of The Chinook Hockey League folded in the early 90s: The Lacombe Merchants.

The Lacombe Rockets of the old Central Alberta Hockey League folded in 1965 then the large Jubilee Hockey Stadium burned down in June 1968.

So the front ice, as we know it, opened in January 1970, The Lacombe Merchants formed and later a Junior B team, The Impact C Rushers, which folded, then the Lacombe Wranglers who moved to Blackfalds.

Why did the Wranglers leave Lacombe to move to Blackfalds?

Lacombe is centrally located so we could be an ideal place for an elite women’s hockey team or the same for ringette, or maybe a triple A Midget hockey team in the Alberta Major Midget Hockey League, or a triple A senior hockey team in the Chinook Hockey League, or a Junior A hockey team competing in the Alberta Junior Hockey League, similar to the 16 teams across Alberta that do that.

But none of those ideas could happen in Lacombe because there are no proper dressing rooms in Lacombe’s ice sport facilities.

Lacombe needs more ice surfaces but, at least, Lacombe could build an annex building at the arenas that would contain eight new, modern, proper, state-ofthe-art dressing room facilities so then Lacombe could have those ‘flagship’ ice sport teams. Lacombe could then host high quality, competitive ice sport games and events thus enhancing the local economy.

Lacombe has an excellent front ice/main ice arena.

That main ice facility is excellent. It is very well lit, very clean, well maintained and has spectator seating, properly, on both the east side of the area competition ice surface and also seating on the west side of that playing rink.

With spectators on both sides it is a great atmosphere for hockey games and the like.

Lacombe can be proud that the arena staff and arena management have that facility presented professionally, extremely clean, well maintained and with class, which adds to the friendly atmosphere in our beautiful City of Lacombe.

So Lacombe should add new, large dressing rooms, then Lacombe would have something special in the spirit of an oldfashioned game in place. Even if

the competition players had to walk a very long distance to the ice playing surface from newly built dressing rooms, I believe that they would appreciate a home base of spacious, modern locker rooms that include several shower heads.

In the past, Lacombe has had proud baseball and hockey teams.

And currently, because of the tremendous effort of dedicated football enthusiasts, Lacombe has a beautiful football facility: M.E. Global Athletic Park near the high school.

I figure that people like myself who are enthusiastic, equally, about ice sports like hockey, need to step up to help continue progress in this great community by adding to sports in Lacombe by initiating a large project for dressing rooms in an annex building.

Lacombe is ideally located as the ‘Crossroads of the Parkland.’

Being in the middle of all things, Alberta is an easy attraction to Lacombe, so if Lacombe had additional modern sport facilities in the form of proper dressing rooms to start with and then hopefully more ice surfaces

of the proper size for competition, then many sports and many activities might actually appear here to this easy access central location.

If Lacombe doesn’t add something modern, then it’s likely not to cultivate fertile soil to reap an abundant harvest.

Our mayor, Steve Christie, has mentioned that he is excited that the code upgrade project will be completed. I suggest that when the $15 million has been expended, that an average person will go to the ice sport/recreational facility buildings to find nothing new and useful for this modern day and era in Lacombe because those upgrades are to improve things up to code. There will be very little as to being relevant to additional or new improvements, amenities or better and newer facilities. I can appreciate that the Lacombe City council and Lacombe City administration have many details to consider about everything in Lacombe and I thank everyone at the City for all of their efforts for all that they do regarding those responsibilities.

It is their responsibility to be

sure that the children must always come first.

An annex building for new modern dressing rooms is their responsibility.

More ice surfaces for the children in Lacombe is, too, their responsibility.

I would encourage that, somehow, a committee be formed to organize a project to raise funds to build an annex building of new, proper, modern, state-of-the-art dressing rooms at the Lacombe arenas.

To that end, I would personally pledge to contribute $1,000 and encourage others, both commercial and private contributions to add however they are comfortable and able to build a chest of funds to raise an approximate amount (likely several million) to then construct those kind of dressing room facilities that would enhance the culture of sports in Lacombe and would therefore assist Lacombe to promote our excellent City for many future exciting events.

W. Sandy Douglas Lacombe

WE WANT READER INPUT Letters to the editor are welcomed by the Lacombe Express. We attempt to publish a cross section of opinion and letters criticizing or praising our writers or content. However we reserve the right to edit every letter if necessary for length, taste, clarity and to eliminate inaccurate or libelous statements.

We prefer short concise letters, but will run letters unedited (for length) to a maximum of 250 words.

Anything over this is subject to cutting. To be considered for publication letters must contain the name, address and phone number of the writer.

We publish the letter writer’s name and home town at the end of the letter.

Please send your letters by fax to 403-7825344, email to news@ lacombeexpress.com or mail to Editor, #5019A 51 Street, Lacombe, AB, T4L 2A3.

8 Lacombe Express

Thursday, January 15, 2015

fyi EVENTS Did you know? Lacombe has a CNIB peer support group for seniors who are blind or partially sighted. The bi-monthly meetings are held at Spruce Terrace (5002-51 Ave). The meetings offer an opportunity to learn about resources through guest speakers and group discussions. You will also receive support and encouragement through connections with other people living with vision loss.

If you, or someone you know could benefit from this group please join us. For information about the support group call Amanda Bradley, senior peer support specialist, CNIB Red Deer at 403-346-0037.

Parkland Classical Singers community choir based in Lacombe is looking for more members.

Rehearsals are held on Thursdays 6:30-8 p.m. at the Wolf Creek Community Church beginning. For more information call Carolyn at 403-782-7365.

Parkinson Alberta Education offers supports groups for persons with Parkinson disease, family members and caregivers at the following Central Alberta locations: Red Deer, Lacombe, Innisfail, Olds, Three Hills and Castor. Visit www.parkinsonalberta.ca for more information.

Central Alberta Woodworkers Guild will be holding their January meeting at the Canadian University College shop in Lacombe on Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. Directions: Turn west at the main intersection on campus and shop is at the end of the road on your left.

Club member Ray Carson will do a presentation on building a dining room table and chair set. All are welcome. For more information call 403-782-6597.

Annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper takes place at Blackfalds United Church on February 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. Come and get your fill of pancakes, eggs, sausage, coffee and juice. Adults $7, 6-12 years $4 and under five are free. Please check our web site at www.blackfaldsunitedchurch.com or phone 403-8854780 for more information.

These events brought to you by:

www.A1-Homes.ca

Your weekly Community Events Calendar

Our Roots and Beyond: Lacombe History Lecture Series — Going to the lake: A history of Gull Lake and its connection to Lacombe. Presented by Stephanie Davis on Jan. 22, 7 p.m. at the Mary C Moore Public Library, LMC 101-5214 50 Ave. This presentation will explore the geography and history of Gull Lake, particularly the south shore area, and share stories of the many events and circumstances that have connected the lake and the City of Lacombe.

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. 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.

Lacombe Walking Group Wednesdays from 12-12:30 at Medcombe Walk-In-Clinic. No registration required.

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

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.

Imperial Daughters of the Empire is a non-profit women’s volunteer program that raises money in support of numerous initiatives supporting education.

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 about the group, contact Mary Lou Wilson 403-782-3923.

Youth Unlimited Drop-in Activities New schedule! Drop-in activities now run every Tuesday from 6 – 9 p.m. with ball hockey on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 – 9 p.m. Girls only drop-in is also Wednesdays from 6 – 9 p.m.

Thursdays Grade 3-6 drop-in

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 403-782-9968 or blog www. lacombeartclubwordpress.com.

Meetings run in LMC Credit Union Room at 5214 50 Ave.

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Over 16 different Models on our lot and Ready To Go! 403.314.2244 • 7898 Gaetz Ave., Red Deer A1HomesRedDeer@gmail.com • www.A1-Homes.ca Kozy Korner Tuesday Dinners every week at noon.

Lacombe Legion breakfasts third Sunday of every month from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

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

St. Andrew’s United Church Jr. Choir for ages five to 18. Meets Thursdays 5:30-6:30 p.m. contact Jesssica at 403-352-5486.

St. Andrew’s United Church Adult Choir for those 18 and older.

Practices on Wednesdays from 7:15 – 8:30 p.m. Contact St. Andrew’s United Church office at 403-782-3148 for more details about the choir.

Real Men Sing Barbershop!

The Wild Rose Harmonizers Barbershop Chorus is a chorus for males of all ages who love to sing four-part

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 Legion on Tuesdays at 7 p.m.

Quilting and crafts held at Blackfalds United Church on Mondays at 9:30a.m. Help make quilts or bring your own quilt/craft to work on. Check out our web site at www.blackfaldsunitedchurch.com or call 403-8854780 for more information.

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.

program runs from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. and Grade 4 and up program from 6 – 9 p.m. Cost is $2 for drop-in and ball hockey with drop-in 10 passes at $10 and ball hockey season pass at $50.

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. Participate in classes of your choice.

Available in Red Deer, Lacombe, Rocky Mountain House, and Innisfail. Contact 403-346-6772.

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.

Affirm – providing safe and confidential support to people of all sexual orientation and identity, their families and friends. We meet in Lacombe. For more information, call Marg at 403-7821887 or Ross at 403-782-3671.

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!

Clive TOPS – Take Off Pounds Sensibly. Every Thursday at the Clive Christian Fellowship Church 9-10:30 a.m.

Clive Seniors’ Drop-In – 1:30 p.m. every Monday at the Clive Meeting Room. Call 403-3142244 or email us A1HomesRedDeer@gmail.com.

Parkinson Alberta Education and Support Groups - Parkinson Alberta offers groups for persons with Parkinson Disease, family members & caregivers at the following Central Alberta locations: Red Deer, Lacombe, Innisfail, Olds, Three Hills and Castor. Call 403-346-4463 or visit www.parkinsonalberta.ca.

The Potter’s Clay Quartet performs at the Living Stones Church Seniors Luncheon & Concert in Red Deer Jan. 28 11:30 –1:30 p.m. $8 pay at the door.

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Lacombe Express 9

Think outside the banks. $W 6HUYXV ZH GR WKLQJV GLƪHUHQWO\ 6HUYXV PHPEHUV DUH DOVR RZQHUV ZKLFK PHDQV \RX JHW KRQHVW DGYLFH WKDWpV EHVW IRU \RX D VD\ LQ KRZ WKH EXVLQHVV RSHUDWHV DQG HYHQ D VKDUH RI WKH SURƬWV servus.ca

Personal | Mortgages | Investments | Loans | Insurance | Business

Feel good about your money.

10 Lacombe Express

Thursday, January 15, 2015

City Page lacombe.ca

City Council Dates

Focusing on Intersection Safety

Lacombe City Council Meetings are open to the public and all are encouraged to attend.

Meeting agendas are posted online at www.lacombe.ca by 3:00 p.m. the Friday before every Council Meeting.

Did you know that last year, 80 people were killed and more than 8,000 people were injured in collisions at intersections in Alberta?

Drivers continue to underestimate how dangerous an intersection can be. Pedestrians, cyclists and motorists all converge at various speeds, making collisions more likely.

According to the Alberta Sheriffs Traffic Operations office, close to 30 per cent of all fatal collisions in Canada are associated with intersections.

Around 87 per cent of all collisions are attributable to driver error. In Alberta, three of the top five most frequent driver errors in casualty collisions were making a left turn across the path of an on-coming vehicle (12.9 per cent), committing a stop sign violation (7.8 per cent), and disobeying a traffic signal (7.2 per cent). Snowy, icy or slushy roads were factors in 16.6 per cent of fatal collisions and 27.3 per cent of non-fatal injury collisions.

Everyone needs to use extra care and attention when travelling though intersections, whether in a municipality or on a rural road.

Some people might think that driving in the city has more risk. Well, not necessarily – 55 per cent of last year’s fatal intersection-related collisions happened in rural intersections.

Below are some safety tips for drivers. Do Not: •Run red lights; •Roll through a stop sign; •Speed through intersections; •Follow too closely; •Make unsafe left-hand turns; •Rely on having the right of way.

The next scheduled Regular Council Meeting dates and times are:

Monday, January 12, 2015 at 5 p.m.

Monday, January 26, 2015 at 5 p.m.

Monday, February 2, 2015 at 5 p.m. (Committee Meeting)

Reminders 2014 Supplementary Property Assessment and Tax Notices The City of Lacombe would like to remind residents that the 2014 Supplementary Property Assessment and Tax Notices for the City of Lacombe have been mailed out. The Supplementary assessment reflects the increase in value of a property where a new home or building is completed or occupied during 2014.

If this applies to you and you have not received your Supplementary Assessment and Tax Notice by January 9, 2015, please contact the City at 403-782-1257. Supplementary Tax payments are due by 4:30 pm on March 31, 2015.

For more information on your Supplementary Property Assessment and Tax Notice and your payment options, please visit our website at www.lacombe.ca/living/taxes-assessment.

Swimming Pool Shutdown The Kinsmen Aquatic Centre is closed for our annual shut-down and will re-open for the public February 2, 2015. However, if you want to register for programs the office is open weekdays from 8:30am -5pm.

Did you know that if you have a term membership for the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre, both the Canadian University College Pool and the Ponoka Aquaplex will honour your membership at their facilities until February 2, 2015? For more information, call (403) 782-1278.

IMAGING MINDS An Art Exhibition

By Tennyson Samraj

Pedestrians also have a role in intersection safety. Below are some safety tips for those on foot: •Be alert at intersections. Always look out for possible dangers when crossing the street •Make eye contact with drivers before you cross the street – when eyes lock, it’s safer to walk •Abide by traffic signs and signals. They are in place to protect your safety.

Staying focused and following the rules of the road are key to reducing collisions and keeping everyone safe on the road. As well, visit www.511.alberta.ca to find out the road conditions before you head out on the road.

This important safety message is brought to you by the Government of Alberta and the City of Lacombe Traffic Safety Committee.

Planning and Development Permits Permitted Use

Current to January 8, 2015

Take notice that the following development permits have been approved as PERMITTED USES in that they conform in every respect to the Land Use Bylaw

DATE

PERMIT#

LOCATION

DEVELOPMENT

January 8 January 8 January 8 January 8

61/255.00 61/255.01 61/255.02 61/250.02

5340 49 Avenue 5535 54 Avenue 5413 46 Street 13 Carnation Road

Home Occupation 1 Home Occupation 1 Home Occupation 1 Shed

Discretionary Use Take notice that the following Discretionary Use Permits have been approved:

Thursday February 5th 5pm — 7pm LMC Foyer Tennyson is a Professor of Philosophy at the CUC. This exhibition was created to capture what great minds have defined for us, and the “essence” of these individuals so that students have the privilege to see them as they understand their contributions.

His series has been created with Microsoft Draw.

DATE January 8 January 8 January 8 January 8 January 8 January 8 January 8 January 8 January 8 January 8 January 8

PERMIT# 61/252.82 61/252.87 61/252.69 61/252.73 61/252.74 61/252.75 61/252.76 61/252.77 61/252.78 61/252.79 61/250.03

LOCATION 24 Willow Crescent 4605 Henners Pointe 4563 46 Avenue 26 Edina Close 2 Beardsley Crescent 4 Beardsley Crescent 6 Beardsley Crescent 8 Beardsley Crescent 10 Beardsley Crescent 12 Beardsley Crescent 4915 (part of ) 4919 50 Avenue

DEVELOPMENT Side Yard Variance for Existing Deck Rear Yard Variance for Existing Shed Existing Cold Storage Building Lot Coverage Variance for Detached Dwelling Variances for Semi-Detached Dwellings Variances for Semi-Detached Dwellings Variances for Semi-Detached Dwellings Variances for Semi-Detached Dwellings Variances for Semi-Detached Dwellings Variances for Semi-Detached Dwellings Personal Services

Documents pertaining to the development permits may be inspected at City Hall, 5432-56 Avenue, during regular business hours. Anyone claiming to be affected by the approval of the Permitted Uses with Variances or Discretionary Uses may submit an objection within 14 days from the date of notice. The appeal must be in writing, accompanied with a $50.00 fee and be directed to: Lacombe Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, Attn: Secretary to the SDAB, 5432 - 56 Avenue Lacombe, AB T4L 1E9

Lacombe Express 11

Thursday, January 15, 2015

City Page lacombe.ca

What’s New?

Honouring Our Heritage

Call for Arts Applications The Lacombe Arts Endowment Fund provides ongoing ďŹ nancial support of literary, visual and performing arts for the beneďŹ t of the residents of Lacombe and area. Applications are new open for the Arts Endowment Fund Grant, and submissions are being accepted until March 31, 2015.

This circa 1903 panoramic photo of Lacombe was taken from the east side of the train tracks and provides a view down 50 Avenue. In the foreground of the photo you can see the old Lacombe Flour Mill and train cars. In the far background you can see the rear of the Flatiron block dominating the skyline of the downtown.

Public Notice

Municipal Development Plan Update RFQ The City of Lacombe is requesting quotes via a Request for Quote (RFQ) for the layout and assembly of the Municipal Development Plan Update: Growing Lacombe.

The RFQ will identify qualiďŹ cations, past work and proven capacity to meet budget and deadlines.

All interested parties are invited to view and print the full proposal from Alberta Purchasing Connections website: www. purchasingconnection.ca or the City’s website (see below).

Any interested parties must submit their quotes and conďŹ rm City Hall’s receipt no later than 12:00 PM local time on January 12, 2015.

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

Visit www.lacombe.ca/living or http://www.lacombe.ca/living/ recreation-culture/lacombe-arts-endowment-fund for more information.

The Encore Art Show & Sale is taking artist applications for booth and gallery space. If you love visual arts and music, then this is the event for you!

Join us on Friday, April 17 and on Saturday the 18, 2015, as we host this fun and colorful two-day event. We will be featuring the paintings, ďŹ bre arts, pottery, ceramics, metal works, and creative masterpieces of some of Alberta’s ďŹ nest artisans, and musicians.

You can download an application at: http://www.lacombe.ca/ living/recreation-culture/art-sale

ive & t c a t ge es! z i r p win

d

City of Lacombe PUBLIC NOTICE Partial Road Closure of 52 Avenue (undeveloped), west of Wolf Creek Drive, part of Plan 992 4577

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Council of the City of Lacombe has given first reading to Bylaw 398, for the partial closure of 52 Avenue, West of Wolf Creek Drive, part of Plan 992 4577, an unused road located north of Lot1 Plan 992 4577 and South of Lot 2, Plan 992 4577. The Road Plan is located west of Wolf Creek Drive at 52 Avenue.

Join in the Winter Active Challenge to get moving with friends, family or coworkers for a minimum of 30 minutes a day for 3-weeks.

take part Monday, Jan. 26 - Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015

register 1. Form a team of 5 family, friends or coworkers.

They can be any age, shape or size as long as they can get moving for 30 minutes a day.

2. Register your team your team must be registered to win!

Call or e-mail the City Recreation Office before Friday, January 23, 2015.

3. Track your team’s activity. Almost anything qualifies as long as you are moving! You can make snow angels, or a build a snowman, go swimming or bowling, anything goes!

Each team member must obtain 30 minutes per day every day for the duration of the Challenge to qualify for weekly prizes and to be entered for the Grand Prize Draw!

contact

!

# # # $ #'%&(%&&(# ! #

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Sonya Beauclair e-mail: sbeauclair@lacombe.ca phone: 403.782.1267 visit www.lacombe.ca/winteractive to register online and get more information

A copy of the Bylaw may be viewed at www.lacombe.ca or at the City of Lacombe Hall 5432 - 56th Avenue during office hours.

If you would like to make comments on the proposed rezoning The Council of the City of Lacombe will be holding a Public Hearing in the Council Chambers located at 5432 - 56th Avenue, on Monday, January 12, 2015 at 6:00 PM. Any person or group wishing to express their views on the proposed Bylaw amendment will be given the opportunity to make a presentation.

All written letters or petition regarding this amendment are to: (a) (b) (c)

be filed with the Chief Administrative Officer no later than 4:30 PM on the Wednesday, January 7, 2015. contain the names and addresses of all persons making the representation, and state the name and address of all persons authorized to represent a group of persons or the public at large.

DATE of First Publication: December 31, 2014 DATE of Second Publication: January 8, 2015

If you have any questions, contact Lyla Peter, Manager of Planning and Development at (403)7821238.

12 Lacombe Express

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Horoscope ARIES

TAURUS

Mar 21/Apr 20

Apr 21/May 21

Take a leadership role on a

Taurus, there is nothing you

work assignment, Aries. If

cannot accomplish this week.

your interest in work has been

The sky is the limit in terms of

waning of late, a more active

your potential. All you need to

role may help you change your

do is focus your energy on a

perspective.

particular task.

GEMINI May 22/Jun 21

CANCER Jun 22/Jul 22

Let something that’s been

You’re willing to give a loved

bugging you cool off for the

one the benefit of the doubt

time being, Gemini. There’s

when that person makes a

plenty of time to revisit the

proposal that seems to come

situation later, and you will be

out of nowhere. Your patience

glad you took some time away.

will be appreciated.

LEO

VIRGO

Jul 23/Aug 23

Aug 24/Sept 22

Expect to be surprised by good

You may benefit from a change

news, Leo. Share your good

of scenery, Virgo. If you have

fortune with others this week,

the time, book a getaway to

and you will realize the good

an exotic locale and make the

news will prove even more

most of this time to rest, relax

enjoyable.

and recharge.

LIBRA Sept 23/Oct 23

ANSWER

SCORPIO Taking charge comes naturally

broken heart or bruised ego

to you, Scorpio. In fact, you thrive in this role. But this week

are big changes ahead in your personal or professional life, so keep your eyes open.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23/Dec 21

you may have to play second fiddle for the good of the team.

CAPRICORN Dec 22/Jan 20

You seem to be operating

Spend the week in as much

on auto-pilot this week,

quiet contemplation as you can

Sagittarius. Your routine has become so ingrained that things are automatic. Make

manage, Capricorn. You have a few big questions to work out

a few minor changes to liven

and can only think when you

things up.

have private time.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Jan 21/Feb 18

Feb 19/Mar 20

Aquarius, dissatisfaction at

Pisces, a loved one comes

work has you wondering

to you seeking guidance this

if things would be different elsewhere. Sometimes a change of attitude can give you an entirely new perspective.

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.

15. Stabs 18. Supervises flying 21. Early American militiaman 24. Downfall 26. Cooking vessel 27. Check 30. In a way, manipulated 32. Sacred book of Judaism 35. Chum 37. Negating word 38. Relating to the body 39. W. hemisphere continents 42. Make lacework 43. Witty remark 46. More hairless 47. Relating to a nerve 49. Originates 50. Consumer advocate Ralph 52. Actress Winger 54. Center for Excellence in Education (abbr.)

55. Japanese brews 57. Fleshy seed covering 59. Canadian law enforcers 62. So. Am. wood sorrel 63. Actress Lupino 66. Personal computer 68. Do over prefix

Oct 24/Nov 22

Libra, rest assured that a

will not last too long. There

HOW TO PLAY:

week, but don’t be bummed if they ultimately do not heed your advice.

CLUES ACROSS

53. Music term for silence 30. Scottish variant of “to” 55. A crane 31. A border for a picture 1. Contradicted 56. Ringworm 33. Belonging to a thing 7. The Donald’s Marla 58. Romanian money 13. Mediterranean sandstorm 34. On top 59. True frog 36. Automobile hood (Brit.)

14. Shoulder adornment 60. Integrated circuit 16. Earth crust’s 5th element 38. Skewered Thai dish 61. “Highway Patrol’s” 40. Clamors 17. Rainbow prize 41. Eggs cooked until just set Crawford 19. NCIS star’s initials 64. Point midway between 43. Flat 20. Mischa __, violinist S and E 44. 13th Hebrew letter 22. Constitution Hall org.

65. On a whim 45. Short poking stroke 23. More dried-up 67. Protagonist 47. Japanese classical 25. First on moon 69. Quantity with only theater 26. Braid magnitude 28. 11% of Guinea population 48. 007’s creator 51. Romanian Mures river city 70. Oversights 29. Sea eagle

CLUES DOWN 1. One who operates a dial 2. Trauma center 3. Prickly pear pads 4. Fashion superstar 5. Shock treatment 6. Mindless drawing 7. AKA migraine 8. Military mailbox 9. Buddies 10. Heavy tranquilizers (slang) 11. Raised railroad track 12. School session 13. Picture

ANSWER

Lacombe Express 13

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Lacombe Express

deadline: Monday @ noon

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

Funeral Directors & Services

Oilfield

800

Oilfield

800

Restaurant/ Hotel

820

Trades

850

TREELINE WELL SERVICES Has Opening for all positions! Immediately.

All applicants must have current H2S, Class 5 with THE RUSTY PELICAN is Q Endorsement,and First now accepting resumes for Aid. We offer competitive F/T Exp’d LINE COOKS at Are you interested in wages & excellent benefits. all stations. MUST HAVE: pursuing an exciting Please include 2 work career with Petrofield reference names and • 2 yrs. min. on-the-job Industries at our Tornado numbers.

JUNIOR OIL AND exp., must have com- Hydovac Trucks manufacPlease fax resume to: pleted High School be turing production facility?

GAS OPERATOR 403-264-6725 reliable, self motivated We are centrally located in in our Stettler Field.

Or email to: work well under limited Applicants need to be the family friendly tannis@treelinewell.com supervision. mechanically inclined, community of Stettler, AB No phone calls please. motivated to work hard www.treelinewell.com Rate is $13.25 - $15./hr. and learn quickly.

We currently have an No benefits.

Associated industry Looking for a new pet? openings for: experience eg. instrumen- Check out Classifieds to 733644 Ab Ltd. tation or facilities Service and Parts Manager find the purrfect pet.

O/A The Rusty Pelican construction experience Finisher Product Testing would be an asset but is Celebrate your life Assistant Location of employment: not necessarily required.

Purchaser with a Classified 4105 2079 - 50 Ave. This position offers a Industrial Painters/Helpers ANNOUNCEMENT Red Deer, AB T4R 1Z4 diverse and challenging Welders Helper email: work environment with General Labourers bennett.bkkp@xplornet.com competitive pay, attractive Restaurant/ Construction Workers or Call 403-347-1414 benefits and the ability to or Fax to: 403-347-1161 grow within the organiza- Hotel Our Company has a Only candidates selected tion. Applicants must live enthusiastic fast paced for an interview will be or be willing to relocate to working environment, with contacted. within a 20 minute advancement opportucommute of the work nities. Wage would be place location (Stettler). commensurate with Celebrate your life Please Submit Resume’s experience/skills. with a Classified Attention Human For more information about ANNOUNCEMENT Resources these positions and our Email: payroll@ company, check out our bearspawpet.com website www.

Fax: (403) 258-3197 LUCKY’S LOUNGE tornadotrucks.com.

Mail: Suite 5309, 333 96th located in Jackpot Casino, Resumes can be emailed Ave NE Calgary, Alberta T3R 1H1 requires Waitress’s to hr@petrofield.com or Trades Fri. - Sun. Please apply in faxed to 403-742-5544. person at 4950 47 Ave. KODIAK Enterprises No phone calls please Buying or Selling Truckers/ Red Deer, AB. your home?

PART-TIME help for Burnt is currently hiring Drivers Check out Homes for Sale Lake Cafe in the Burnt JOURNEYMAN & in Classifieds Lake Industrial Area. Call APPRENTICE WELDERS Louise @ 403-342-6687 F/T year round employment SHOP YARD PERSON TAP HOUSE Please call Bob NORTH 403-357-8669 or email (formerly Sam’s Cafe) is resume to: now taking applications for bob@kodiakent.com Full Time/Part time COOK, Bring resume to NOW HIRING 7101 Gaetz Ave. Red Deer DRYWALL HELPER REQ’D. Well Testing Personnel between 2-4 pm.

Experience an asset.

Experienced Supervisors 403-341-7619 & Operators TOO MUCH STUFF? CENTRAL AB based Must have valid applicable trucking company requires Let Classifieds tickets. Email: lstouffer@ help you sell it.

Owner Operators testalta.com & Contract Drivers Classifieds Tired of Standing?

CELEBRATIONS in AB. Home the odd night.

Your place to SELL Find something to sit on HAPPEN EVERY DAY Weekends off. Late model Your place to BUY in Classifieds IN CLASSIFIEDS tractor pref. 403-586-4558

BEARSPAW is a moderately sized oil and gas company operating primarily in the Stettler and Drumheller areas. We are currently accepting applications for a

Coming Events

52

RIMBEY SLEIGH, WAGON AND SADDLE CLUB invites you to the 23rd annual Rimbey cutter parade on Saturday, Feb. 7 at the Rimbey Ag Arena and Grounds. Registration for cutters from 10 a.m. to Noon, parade at 1.

Concession and silent auction. facebook.com/ RimbeySWSClub email: rimbeySWS Club@gmail.com or call Denise 403-704-4236 You can sell your guitar for a song... or put it in CLASSIFIEDS and we’ll sell it for you!

54

Lost

HEAVY gauge gold chain, possibly broken with Jesus Christ on cross, heirloom, maybe lost Canadian Tire (north) 403-342-0247 Looking for a place to live?

Take a tour through the CLASSIFIEDS

Meetings

59

LACOKA LACROSSE Association AGM meeting is Wednesday, January 28, 2015 @ 6:30 in the upstairs meeting room in the Lacombe arena. Come out to see what is new for the 2015 season & register your child. Late registration is Wednesday, February 4, 2015 @ 7:00 in the Ponoka arena lobby.

Everyone welcome!!

Personals

60

COCAINE ANONYMOUS 403-396-8298 Is someone’s drinking causing you problems?

AL-ANON 403-346-0320

Medical

790

F/T & P/T Pharmacist and Pharmacy Technician positions req’d.

Apply w/resume to: Highland Green Value Drug Mart, Red Deer Classifieds...costs so little Saves you so much!

•Skidsteer Services •Gravel Hauling •Excavating • Now Booking for Snow Removal

403.304.3887

820

850

860

JIM’S

SEPTIC TANK SERVICE

403-748-2628 403-350-8628

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.

Clothing

1590

VINTAGE wedding dress, XS (size 4), ivory embossed, satin brocade, $200. 403-227-2976

Firewood

1660

AFFORDABLE

Homestead Firewood Spruce & Pine -Split. Firepits avail. 7 days/wk. 403-304-6472 DRY SPLIT FIREWOOD 403-748-3611 Delivery avail. Please leave msg.

FIREWOOD, Spruce & 5* JUNK REMOVAL Pine. North of Costco Property clean up 340-8666 403-346-7178, 392-7754 Now Offering Hotter, Cleaner BC Birch. All Types. P.U. / Delivery. Lyle 403-783-2275 SPLIT Dry Firewood. Pine & Birch. Delivery avail MOVING? Boxes? Appls.

(403)845-8989 removal. 403-986-1315 BRIDGER CONST. LTD. We do it all! 403-302-8550

Sporting Goods

1860

ALL wood children’s pull sled, round back, exc.

JG PAINTING, 25 yrs. exp. cond, $30. 403-346-5423 Free Est. 403-872-8888

Auctions

1530

AUCTION Sales Wed. @ 6 pm.

Antique sales 1st. Sun. of the month @ 1 pm. Feb. 1 Moose Hall 2 miles south of Ponoka on 2A WE BUY FOR CASH. 403-304-4791 Check website for full listings

Farm Equipment

Farm Custom Work

2080

CUSTOM TUB GRINDING

www.bigstrapperauctions.net

Collectible Auction Sunday January 18- 10 am Bowden Lions HallBowden AB Coins, USA 24 ct. Silver, Sets, Rifles, Die cast toys, Jewelry, Glassware, Furniture, Military, Ornaments, Pride Mobility Scooter, Check the web for listing & pictures Pilgrim Auction 403-556-5531 www.pilgrimauction.com

2010

RIBSTONE COLONY Corral panels, windbreakers, bale feeders, calf sheds, 780-806-3694

Truck mount grinder w/550 HP. Call Nolan 403-357-9674

Condos/ Townhouses

3030

ALIX, 2 bdrm. 1 bath condo, 1210 sq. feet with balcony & 2 parking. Avail, immed. 403-341-9974 ALIX, 2 bdrm. 1 bath condo, 1210 sq. feet with balcony & 2 parking. Avail, immed. 403-341-9974

403-598-2734

3809 - 53 Ave, Lacombe, AB

Your Quality Excavating Solution

403-748-2628

860

Service Directory HEAVY TRUCK PARTS

www.drakeex.ca

403-350-8628

Truckers/ Drivers

BLACKFALDS

PROFESSIONAL PHARMACY •Travel Vaccination's •Ostomy Supplies •Shingles Vaccine •Compounding •Breast Pump Rentals

5049 Parkwood Road, Blackfalds Phone:

403-600-2280 Fax:

403-600-2243

•BOBCATS •GRADERS •LOADERS •TRUCKS •TRACK HOES •AGRICULTURE •DEMOLITION •EXCAVATION •GENERAL CONTRACTING •SAND/GRAVEL •SUBDIVISION WORK

CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION

For All Your Excavation Needs 403.782.3437

www.dbbobcat.com

14 Lacombe Express

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Careers

Advocate Opportunities

CARRIERS REQUIRED

Successful Careers Start here

To deliver the

CENTRAL AB LIFE & LACOMBE EXPRESS 1 day a week in: LACOMBE BLACKFALDS

Canada’s Leader in the Design, Fabrication and Installation of Screw Piles

LAMB INDUSTRY CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Please call Rick for details 403-314-4303

SunGold Specialty Meats Ltd. has an immediate opening for the newly created posiƟon of

CARRIERS REQUIRED

ALMITA IS GROWING – GROW WITH US!

To deliver the CENTRAL AB LIFE 1 day a week in:

Manager – Producer RelaƟons and Field Procurement

INNISFAIL Penhold Olds Sylvan Lake

Based in Central/Southern Alberta the successful candidate will be willing to spend considerable Ɵme on the road developing relaƟonships, and uƟlizing their lamb and ag-business knowledge and experience to execute on the business requirements of the posiƟon.

Are you looking for a rewarding opportunity to use your skills in an innovative company where there is plenty of room to grow your career? Almita Piling is looking for skilled applicants to join our dynamic team.

Please call Debbie for details 403-314-4307

Salary and other terms of employment are negoƟable and include beneĮts. For a more in depth descripƟon of the opportunity go to our website at www.sungoldmeats.com under the careers tab.

• SHOP LABOURERS • RECEPTIONIST

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

Provide your cover leƩer and resume to Dwayne Beaton, CEO

by January 26, 2015 by:

For full job details, please see our website at www.almita.com/careers. To apply, please send a current resume to resumes@almita.com.

Email: dwayne.beaton@sungoldmeats.com Fax: (403) 227-1661

Mail: 4312 – 51 Street Innisfail, AB T4G 1A3

Please call Debbie at 403-314-4307

MORRISROE AREA: Adult Newspaper Carriers Needed For Early Morning Delivery of the RED DEER ADVOCATE With only 64 papers, approximately: $350.00/mo.

For More Information, Please call Prodie 403-314-4301

Manufactured Homes

3040

Houses For Sale

4020

2 BDRM in Alix. 4 appls, $900/mo. inclds. water, Feb. 1 no pets 403-348-6594

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

Houses For Sale

Drive a little save a lot Brand new 2135 sq.ft.

Laebon home 3 bdrms/2.5 baths $431,599 Call Jocelyn 403.302.9612

4020

PART-TIME (0.75 FTE) CUSTODIAN POSITION – FATHER LACOMBE CATHOLIC SCHOOL, LACOMBE, ALBERTA St. Thomas Aquinas RCSRD No. 38 is seeking applicants for a parttime (6 hours per day, afternoon/evening shift, 3:00 PM TO 9:00 PM) custodian based at Father Lacombe Catholic School in Lacombe, Alberta. The position will commence as soon as possible.

Previous janitorial experience and the ability to work as part of a team are considered assets. Salary will be determined by the Terms of Employment.

Successful applicants must be prepared to supply a recent Criminal Record Check, (inclusive of vulnerable sector) and recent Alberta Children’s Services Intervention Record Check. Individuals who are interested should submit a detailed resume and support staff application form in conÀdence showing related training, experience, and references to: Mr. Charlie Bouchard, Assistant Superintendent St. Thomas Aquinas RCSRD No. 38 4906 – 50 Avenue Leduc, AB T9E 6W9 Telephone: (780) 986-2500 Fax: (780) 986-8620 Email: careers@starcatholic.ab.ca Please quote reference #ÁCUST0115 Support staff application forms can be found on the STAR Catholic Website under “jobs” “support staff” www.starcatholic.ab.ca.

A lifestyle you have more than earned Stunning new Laebon home in the Timbers-Red Deer 1426 sq.ft. 3 bdrms/2baths, large private master suite $499,900 Call Samantha 403.392.6261

Huge pie shaped lot in Red Deer New 2bdrm/2bath Laebon home in Timberstone $347,900 call Aaron 403.396.4016

The Successful candidate’s offer of employment will be conditional upon receipt of a satisfactory Criminal Record and Child Welfare Check. Only those applicants short listed for an interview will be contacted.

We are currently recruiting for two Field Operators in Central Alberta, specifically in the Rimbey area.

Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: • Assisting the operations team in managing the day-to-day operations of sweet and sour gas and oil wells, compressor stations and oil batteries • Assisting with production optimization, troubleshooting, and maintenance • Performing safety and regulatory responsibilities • Monitoring and performing SCADA related tasks Qualifications: • Minimum 3-5 years experience in a field operations environment • Must be willing to relocate to the Central Alberta area if required • First Aid, TDG, WHMIS and H2S certification is an asset; also a clean driving record • Successful candidate must be highly motivated, outgoing and able to work with limited supervision • Successful completion of applicable CMDS profiles is an asset • Excellent computer skills are an asset If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your resume clearly indicating position title by: Email: careers@bonavistaenergy.com Fax: 403-538-8572 Please visit our website for more information @ www.Bonavistaenergy.com We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted

Tired of Standing?

Find something to sit on in Classifieds Buying or Selling your home?

Check out Homes for Sale in Classifieds

Auto Wreckers Amazing new Laebon Home 1452 sq.ft. modified bi-level with large private master suite 3 bdrms/2baths $394,599 Call Jocelyn 403.302.9612

This competition will remain open until 4:00 pm January 28, 2015 or until a suitable candidate is found.

Position: Field Operator, Central Area Reporting to: Production Foreman

5190

RED’S AUTO. Free Scrap Vehicle & Metal Removal.

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

Position to fill?

Advertise here – It Works

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Lacombe Express 15

ARTS & LEISURE

Johnny McCuaig Band heads to Fratters Acclaimed bagpiper will meld an array of styles for Red Deer show

BY MARK WEBER Lacombe Express There really is no sound quite like the bagpipes for whipping up an array of emotions. And few people know this as well as Johnny McCuaig, who performs at Fratters Speakeasy in Red Deer on Jan. 16th.

He’s been playing bagpipes for many years, and as front man of the band McCuaig, he spent about a decade starting in 1998 serving up all kinds of electrifying tunes, with everything from funk, blues, rock to hints of reggae, ska and of course traditional bagpipe melodies.

The sounds were utterly unique, and after the band’s last CD, Vita, the guys had reached a point of needing a much-deserved break.

“After the Vita album came out, we toured and toured,” he recalls. “And we just got burned out; we were playing about 250 nights per year. All of us just knew we needed to take some time off, recharge and remember why we were playing.”

As time passed, he gradually came to the point where he knew it was time to explore his musical passion again.

“I decided to take a different approach. I thought, I’m going to do this on my own now – write everything and just get it happening.”

He’s venturing out as The Johnny McCuaig Band. And in just a couple of weeks, he’s also set to begin to record a new CD which will mark a new era of collaboration as the tracks take shape. “I’ve got a lot of momentum behind it which is fantastic,” says McCuaig, who hails from Nelson, B.C. “It’s a brand new chapter and a fresh beginning.

“I’m super excited about it, and just can’t wait to get it all out there.”

Today, he’s based in Regina and that’s where the recording will take place as well.

“I’ve enlisted the help of some Regina boys,” he said, adding that Juno Award-winner Jason Plumb will be handling production of the project. Plumb also fronted Canadian band The Waltons.

“He’s really taken me under his wing, and has shown me a lot in the studio and about songwriting – he’s a huge asset. And what a great guy to help me out this way.

He’s really helping me with my songwriting and with progressing to the next level.”

Others contributing to the project include singer Casey Stone and Shaun Verreault of Wide Mouth Mason, who will be playing guitar on a track.

“I’m enlisting a lot of different musicians to come in and either sing or play on the tracks.”

It was during his elementary school days McCuaig’s own musical journey was launched.

By the time he was in Grade 6, with the amazing influences of some wonderful teachers, he was touring elementary schools with classmates putting on afternoon pop shows.

He also discovered the lure of the bagpipes and has pretty much never looked back.

“My father wanted me, my sister and brother to all learn.

It was something that was in my family,” he recalls. “We really took off with the pipes – when I was seven years old, I was marching down the street with my bagpipes – myself and my brother. We were going to competitions, and were the upand-coming pipers in our area,” he adds with a laugh.

He also took lessons and eventually became one of the youngest members to join the Nelson Kootenay Kiltie Pipe Band.

In his early 20s, he placed

MESMERIZING – The Johnny McCuaig Band performs at Fratters in Red Deer on Jan. 16th. an ad in Nelson’s music store looking for part time players to gig with. Rocker Carson Cole dropped by. McCuaig played bass with Cole for four years touring western and northern Canada in every town and city.

One night while playing up in Yellowknife, McCuaig and Cole decided to finish off by playing bagpipes and the crowd went nuts. This gave him and Cole a new idea -- rock with bagpipes.

“It was a packed house that night – and everyone just stopped and looked. The whole crowd was mesmerized by this kid playing bagpipes in a rock band. Carson

came up to me later that night and said, ‘We’ve got to do something with this’.”

Eventually, McCuaig ventured off with his own band, writing lots of music and found that folks loved what the band had to offer. The sheer uniqueness of the sounds continues to stir up audiences and wield an emotional power all its own.

“It was a band that played funk and rock, but that also played the bagpipes. There’s something about the bagpipes that really transforms people. You either love it or you hate it. There’s no real in between.

photo submitted

“But what we found is that even people who have their minds made up and say they don’t like bagpipes, if they listen to what I do, they’ll often say, ‘That’s cool – that’s different. It’s not what I thought it was going to be’.

The sound of bagpipes certainly seem capable of tapping into an array of emotions – from exhilaration to melancholy.

Whatever the case, there’s typically almost an intimate reaction that people have when they hear those strains.

“It makes you feel something powerful.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

Your Hearing Aid Centre • Precision in Assessments • Care in Product Selection • Excellence in Customer Service Dr. Susan Hopf M.Sc., Au.D. Audiologist

We are an approved full service center for WBC, DVA & AADL clients.

Toll Free 1-888-956-0404 www.strategichearingsolutions.com Lacombe #107, 5033 - 52 Street • 403-782-3457 Red Deer 5125 48 Street • 403-346-0404

Dr. Allison Fox

M.Sc., Au.D. Audiologist/Owner

ARTS & LEISURE

16 Lacombe Express

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Expert says, ‘It’s the worst dirty trick of aging In 2014, how much progress did we make in the search for sound lifestyle?

Many of us know it’s better to ask for low fat milk or eat more chicken than fatty meat.

Some of us see the nutritional folly of soft drinks loaded with sugar, and that we should eat more fruits and vegetables.

Dr. Gifford

JONES But a report in Nutrition Action Health Letter says some messages have not shown up on our radar.

One – more of us now know that obesity is associated with heart disease and diabetes.

But many of us still have not learned that extra pounds increase the risk of cancer.

The Canadian Cancer Society claims that 35% of malignancies are related to poor eating habits, inactivity and overweight.

Cancers linked to obesity include breast malignancy in postmenopausal women and cancer of the esophagus uterus, colon,

rectum, kidney and pancreas.

Two – Susan Krebs-Smith of the U.S. National Cancer Institute reports too many people continue to eat crackers, cereal, pancakes, pizza crust, cookies and pastries made with refined flour, rather than grains from whole wheat.

The best way to ensure the purchase of whole wheat is to look at the ingredients listed on the product.

The word ‘whole’ should be first on the list.

Often it’s hard to find. Whole wheat contains more fiber, minerals and vitamins to fight constipation and cardiovascular disease.

Three - We need 4,700 milligrams (mg) of potassium daily, yet the average person gets 2,900 mg.

This is not a minor point.

Graham McGregor, professor of cardiovascular medicine at the London School of Medicine in the U.K., says potassium lowers blood pressure.

To prove it, McGregor gave an extra 2,500 mg of potassium to people with high blood pressure who were only getting 2,200 mg from their diet.

His study showed that arteries that were stiff became less rigid and resulted in decreased blood pressure. It also showed less thickening of the heart’s muscle.

A U.S. study of 1,000 young adults who consumed more potassium and less sodium also resulted in less thickening of the heart’s muscle, indicative of a healthier heart.

So consumption of bananas and other fruits and vegetables ensures enough potassium.

Four – Today, 95% of those with Type 2 diabetes are obese. Yiqing Song of The Harvard Medical School says there is consistent evidence that increased dietary magnesium fights this epidemic.

It’s disastrous that one in 13 North Americans have this disease. For those over 65, one in four.

So in 2015 more whole wheat bread, nuts, a high bran cereal and leafy vegetables can reduce this disease.

Five – But there’s bad news for seniors.

Marion Nestle, professor of nutrition at New York University says, “Food lover that I am, the worst part about getting older is that I cannot eat as much as I used to without putting on weight.”

She adds, “I consider this the worst dirty trick of aging.”

The resting metabolism test indicates the amount of energy needed to keep our heart, lungs, kidneys and other organs functioning day after day.

Nestle states that metabolism shifts into

a lower gear for men at age 40, but not until age 50 for women.

This is another example of it not being a fair world!

What happens is that muscle weight is exchanged for fat as we burn fewer calories as we age.

Moreover, elderly people become less active.

This combination leads to more pounds.

The hard truth is we have to eat less as we age.

Six – This is the 38th year I’ve had the pleasure of wishing readers a happy, safe and healthy holiday season.

My apologies if I’ve just sent you into a eating funk at this festive time of year. If that’s the case, Brian Wansink of Cornell University, author of Mindless Eating, suggests cutting calories by using smaller plates for food.

And to pour your Christmas cheer into a tall narrow glass.

Wide ones hold more.

It’s also wise to keep food out of sight and reach.

And if you delay asking for a second helping or dessert for 20 minutes, you may find you don’t want it.

These are all good suggestions for the upcoming year.

See the web site www.docgiff.com. For comments info @docgiff.com.

Simple and tasty Italian sausage and Gnocchi soup Chef Dez on Cooking Chef

DEZ

One of the best things about Italian cuisine can be its simplicity, and one of the best things about winter is eating soup.

One of the commonly asked questions directed to me is for easy, fast, and delicious soup recipes.

?

Thinking about

How you Recycle

Recycled newspaper is used to create cereal boxes, egg cartons, pencil barrels, grocery bags, cellulose insulation, tissue paper, wrapping paper and is even used in sheet rock surfacing and molded packaging.

Please recycle this newspaper

This is the one I recommend all the time.

This soup is hearty and because it is loaded with Italian sausage, gnocchi pasta, tomatoes, garlic and incredible cheese.

It is everything you would expect from an Ital-

ian soup, but also very quick and easy to prepare.

If you have never heard of ‘gnocchi’ pasta before, don’t despair - vacuumsealed packages of the small dumpling-like pasta shapes can be found at almost all major grocery

stores right down the pasta aisle.

Don’t underestimate the choice of the Pecorino Romano cheese as the finishing garnish for this soup as it adds incredible flavour and compliments and balances all the other flavours in this soup beautifully.

Large shavings of this cheese are easily prepared with a simple vegetable peeler - just shave it directly onto the individually bowled soup portions just prior to serving - this looks much more rustic and gourmet than simply grating it, but either way works fine.

If you can’t find Pecorino Romano, a chunk of Parmigiano Reggiano will have to suffice. Enjoy and keep warm this winter.

Italian Sausage & Gnocchi Soup

500g raw mild Italian sausage, casings removed and discarded 1 tbsp. olive oil 6 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 cup finely chopped onion 1.5 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. pepper 1 - 796ml can of diced tomatoes 1800ml chicken broth 1 tsp. sugar 1 - 500g package of potato

gnocchi pasta 1 packed cup fresh baby spinach leaves 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil Generous amounts of shaved Pecorino Romano cheese

1. Add the sausage meat, olive oil, garlic, onion, salt and pepper to a large pot.

Turn the heat to medium and cook for approximately five to sausage minutes until the sausage in cooked through, while breaking up the sausage meat with a spoon as it cooks.

2. Add the can of tomatoes, chicken broth, and sugar.

Increase the heat to medium high to bring to a boil.

Once boiling, add the gnocchi and continue to cook for three minutes.

3. Remove the pot from the heat.

Stir in the spinach and basil and portion out immediately; garnished with generous amounts of shaved Pecorino Romano cheese.

This recipe will make approximately 13 cups.

Chef Dez is a food columnist, culinary instructor and cookbook author. Visit him at www. chefdez.com.

Lacombe Express 17

Thursday, January 15, 2015

SPORTS

CLOSE GAME – Blackfalds Wrangler captain Robin Carlson had to skate hard to keep the puck away from Three Hills Thrashers opponent Dru Hickle in a closely matched game, which the WranKalisha Mendonsa/Lacombe Express glers won 3-1 on Tuesday night.

Defending champs still have to work for their wins

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Lacombe Express The Blackfalds Wranglers had a tough match against the Three Hills Thrashers Tuesday night but managed to pull through in the third period to win the game 3-1.

There was a lot of back-and-forth between the two teams in the Blackfalds Arena. The Wranglers are no strangers to success but had to work at maintaining control of the puck with the Thrashers refusing to go down without a fight.

Wranglers Head Coach Brian Lenz was happy for the won, but said he felt his team could have performed better.

“We didn’t really look like we were mentally prepared for a game. Our passing was bad, and there were a lot of guys not giving 100 per cent on their skating. Three Hills played well too, and fore checked us a lot. But, you’ve got to have games like that to get better,” Lenz said.

“It was one of our ugly wins.”

In the first period, both teams were able to score a goal. From there, it was constant banter between the teams of fighting

to maintain control of the puck. The Wranglers had to work to keep the puck in their opponents’ end due to the strong defensive game of the Thrashers.

Lenz admitted he thought his boys were skating as if they were tired, and said they were having a hard time that evening. The Wranglers have developed a reputation as a ruthless team with aggressive wins and lots of shots on their opponents’ goal. That was not the case in this past Tuesday’s game, where the Wranglers took a mere 37 shots – much lower than their game average.

“I think part of our problem was that we didn’t have a practice for a month, with the holidays. We had some guys here and some not, so I think if we get a practice or two in we’ll be in better shape.”

Second period was slow for both teams.

No goals were scored, but the teams worked hard, each taking close to 15 shots on their opponents, but to no avail.

Wranglers captain Robin Carlson said he was happy with the win, although he admitted that his team started off on the wrong foot.

“We started off really slow, but (Thomas Isaman) was phenomenal – he held us out with some really good saves. And then we kind came together as a group, got pucks deep and got back to our game and just took it from there,” he said.

Isaman, the Wranglers goalie, made numerous saves that excited his teammates as well as the crowd. At one point, he managed to save three very close shots, earning yells and cheers from the attendees and his team.

Meanwhile, Carlson said although the team has had a strong winning streak, it isn’t for a lack of trying by the other teams.

“It’s getting tougher to keep our streak. It started out where we were winning games, and they were maybe a little lopsided but now the teams are really gearing up for us and we have to be ready no matter who we’re playing.”

In the third period, tension in the arena grew palpable, as fans were eager to see the 1-1 tie broken. With less than 10 minutes left, two goals were scored by the Wranglers.

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For Thrashers Head Coach Ian Hall, the game was a good demonstration of his team’s ability to challenge and skate well, even though the result did not end in their favour.

“We couldn’t get our power play to work tonight, and I think that was the difference in the game. We had six opportunities and we didn’t score on any of them. That kind of changed the momentum. But, we were in it to the third, a couple bad breaks and some really nice saves by their goalie. I think it would have been a different game if he had let one or two of those in,” Hall said.

With playoffs around the corner, the Wranglers are in good shape to maintain their spot at the top of the league. However, teams like the Thrashers are gearing up to bring a good fight.

“We’re starting to hone in on how we want to play going into playoffs. We tried it out tonight, and it seemed to work for the most part but hopefully we can continue to build over the next month,” said Hall. kmendonsa@lacombeexpress.com

Symphony Senior Living

Immediate Space Available

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Retirement Home 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

SPORTS

18 Lacombe Express

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Snow park in Blackfalds opens to public

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Lacombe Express The highly anticipated Riders’ Rush snow park in Blackfalds officially began service last week, much to the pleasure of owner Sam Kiat.

The park guides riders with a towrope, over jumps, rails or just flat ground all with a managed speed. The inspiration for the park was drawn from wakeboarding competitions, where boarders are guided through an obstacle course by a towrope, allowing them to gain speed. Kiat said this park is the only one of its kind in Alberta, made for use by snow-

boarders and skiers.

“Basically, it pulls you around and you hit jumps if you want. It’s about 500 feet one- way, and we can control the speed depending on the ability of the rider. If they don’t want to do the jumps, they can go straight down the path.

Skiers are welcome as well, and we also offer snow tubing for the really little ones who can’t go on a board or skis,” he said.

His feat began early in 2014 when he brought a proposal to the Town of Blackfalds to bring equipment to the Town and use it for a winter recreation park. The equipment was being used for water sport parks in

the Philippines. Kiat said it took several months to get the approval and around June he was ready to start bringing the equipment to Canada.

“We’ve had it set up and have been testing for over a week and so far so good. We’ve got a bunch of friends who have brought their little kids in and we’ve gotten a good response from them, so hopefully the community feels the same way,” Kiat said.

“I’m excited for the response and the support of the community.”

Kiat said there have been a few obstacles in setting up this park. There is nothing like it in

Alberta, so getting a construction permit for the park was difficult.

He said he had to go through multiple agencies coordinating their efforts in order to bring the park to Blackfalds.

“The challenges have mostly been trying to get things started with the power to get this set up and running. It’s a big process to get it all done and get it all in place. Aside from that, there weren’t many major setbacks other than the snow coming a little bit later and getting a construction permit,” he said.

Those wishing to hit the park must call and reserve a time to ride, as the park only offers a

few spots at a time. Kiat added it becomes almost like having a private session. Check out www.ridersrush.com for more information.

“For people that want to learn how to ski, they don’t have to be afraid of the hill here. We can control the speed, so if they’re beginners and are afraid of taking a chance on a hill, we can pull them as slow as possible and get them used to it,” Kiat said.

Helmets are mandatory for all riders. Skiers and snowboarders must bring their own gear, but tubes are provided for snow tubing sessions. kmendonsa@lacombeexpress.com

Local athlete making a name for herself at Briercrest Lacombe native Regan Kooyman’s strong serve, enthusiasm and passion for the game helps drive the Briercrest women’s volleyball team to victory.

The 5’6” setter graduated from Central Alberta Christian High School (CACHS) in Lacombe. She played for the CACHS Knights Grades 10 through 12.

Now in her second year of business, Kooyman was first drawn to Briercrest College, a Christian post-secondary institution located in Caronport, Saskatchewan for a variety of reasons.

“I came to Briercrest to play volleyball, go further in my walk with God and have a really fun college experience,” she said. “I heard a lot of good things about the college from people who had come here before me.”

Amongst her favourite moments so far have been claiming a victory over the Red Deer College Queens this past semester and a road trip with her team.

“There are so many great friends on the team,” said Kooyman about what makes the team special. “The dynamic is great and everyone is so talented and positive.”

Kooyman continues to work hard as both a student and an athlete with the intent to work to the best of her ability and to develop a new perspective.

“I want to keep developing my skills and have fun on a great team in a great sport,” she said.

-Maetche

SKILLS – Pictured here is Lacombe native Regan Kooyman on the court during a CCAA women’s volleyball game.

Coaches

photo submitted

Do you want your team covered?

Send contact info, rosters and schedules to news@lacombeexpress.com

Lacombe Express 19

Thursday, January 15, 2015

HOMES & LIVING

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Inglewood

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FRESH LOOK – This children’s room of an Abbey Master Builder show home in Sylvan Lake is beautifully finished with soft pastel colours, which brighten up the clean cut room.

Jenna Swan/Lacombe Express

‘Shab’ is in for 2015 like never before The news cannot stop reporting about how 2015 is going to be a tough year financially, over and over we hear about oil prices and while we are enjoying lower gas prices we will feel the effects of the oil pricing situation.

The fashion and design industry is always quick to follow suit and as a result, shabby chic is the big ‘in’ for 2015. Retro, repurposed items are rising in popularity as we try to stretch our dollars – you can even buy replicated retro items which look like older pieces of furniture!

Shab is in for 2015 like never before and it is very stylish to have used items in your home.

Small companies are making cash on refinishing old furniture to customize it to your homes as traditional chic items are often coated in several layers of paint which have been sanded or worn bare with time.

Using old world hues of pink, azure blue and cream, unique pieces of furniture

Kim

MECKLER are set apart from the sleek monotone furniture we see today.

Older pieces generally have embellishments, curves and interesting appliqués which make them independent works of art.

The beginning of shabby chic actually started in England as items of great value were passed from generation to generation.

These items had either sentimental or monetary value and were considered a legacy for the younger generations. As the items were passed through households they naturally became worn and well loved as people were more apt to refinish and reuse these pieces of furniture and carpets

instead of just disposing of them.

Thus the shabby chic movement arrived with generations old furniture pieces suddenly becoming collector’s items.

Fabrics and textiles were also passed from generation to generation and were cared for and laundered by many ladies’ maids.

Over the years the fabrics became soft, worn and faded looking but were still considered very valuable as some fabrics represented family lineage (such as plaids and tartans).

Now fabric manufacturers are using computers and modern printing technology to make fabric look worn and tea stained to invoke the feeling of soft nostalgia.

Shabby chic or boho chic refers to a re-using and repurposing of products.

Shabby or Bohemian refers to something to be despised or looked down on but chic gives us a feeling of stylish elegance making either of these terms more fun to

say and way trendier to use.

If you love antiques and enjoy the history and story behind these items they will be shabby chic, if you want modern clean lines then they will just be plain old shabby. Perspective and appreciation for history will either make it chic or not so chic.

The idea of buying recycled items may seem like a budget friendly proposition but unfortunately it seems that now when someone titles something ‘post modern’, ‘shabby chic’, or ‘mission style’ it immediately drives the price up!

Anything that is in style, no matter how old or rundown someone might think it is will always fetch a top price as we are always drawn into buying what is trendy.

Maybe we should take another look at our gramma’s attic and that shed full of old furniture at our family farm – we might uncover some treasures!

Kim Meckler is an interior designer with Carpet Colour Centre in Red Deer.

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20 Lacombe Express

Thursday, January 15, 2015

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