CityPulse - Fall 2015

FALL 2015

citypulse Your connection to the City of Spruce Grove

FALL S M A R PROG E! IpD GU 5 see g. 3

TOUR OF ALBERTA ARRIVES SEPT. 6 pg. 8

SPORTS & RECREATION FACILITY SNEAK PEEK pg. 11

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City Directory CITY OF SPRUCE GROVE Phone: 780-962-2611 Fax: 780-962-2526

Emergency Numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance 911

Mayor and Council: Executive Assistant

780-962-7604

Public Library

780-962-4423

780-962-7588

Program Registration (FCSS)

780-962-7618

City Hall Ticket Centre

780-962-8995

Compliance Requests

780-962-7634 ext 180

RCMP 410 King St.

• Administration

• Complaints

780-962-2289 780-962-2222

Animal Control

780-962-7585

Arena/Agrena

780-962-2031

Building Permits

780-962-7634 ext 129

Business Licences

Dangerous Goods Routes

780-962-4496

Development Permits • Commercial • Residential

780-962-7623 780-962-7589

Districting/Zoning

780-962-7601

Dog Licences

780-962-2611

Economic Development

780-962-7608

Enforcement Services • Complaints • Inquiries

780-962-7586 780-962-7585

Recreation and Park Planning

780-962-7579

Residential Waste Hotline

780-962-7580

Roads, Parks Maintenance, Residential Waste, Water and Sewer Trouble (24 hour) 780-962-7584 Roads Seasonal Hotline

780-962-7581

Seasonal Sports Field Hotline

780-962-7602

Specialized Transit Service (STS)

780-962-2456

Street Light Repairs (Fortis)

780-310-9473

Engineering

780-962-7624

Taxes

780-962-2611

Facility Bookings

780-962-7579

TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre

780-960-5080

Family and Community Support Services (FCSS)

780-962-7618

Transit (ETS Bus Link – 24 hour)

780-442-5311

Fire Services – Administration

780-962-4496

Tourism/Visitor Information – 99 Campsite Rd.

780-962-2561

Utility Billing

780-962-2611

Utility Hook Ups

780-962-7597

Human Resources

780-962-7634 ext 107

Inspections Hotline

780-962-7582

Effective Wednesday, Aug. 26, the City’s Planning and Development and Engineering departments will be moving to 414 King Street (in the King Street Mall).

MOVING

To accommodate the move, the departments will be – their new office closed Aug. 20 – 25 and will reopen in da for up tes grove.o ce8:30 ruat e sp26 space onse Aug. a.m.rg

D E L AY E D

For more information visit www.sprucegrove.org/move.

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This issue...

6 Serving the community of choice

21 KidSport Parkland So All Kids Can Play

7 Growing by leaps and bounds

21 Outstanding Achievement Recognition Program

7 Aww thanks – we’re blushing!

8 Tour of Alberta racing through region

22 Fall Community Development Workshop Series 2015

10 Bus fare available by the booklet

22 Mini Monster Bash

11 New Public Works facility open for business

23 Go paperless and WIN!

12 Sports and Recreation Facility sneak peek

24 City implements weekly blue bag collection

16 City facility rentals

25 Storing your RV for the winter

17 A park with a plan

26 An unexpected delivery

18 Parks, playgrounds and sports fields

28 Back to School

20 Community Service & Funding Opportunities 30 Horizon Stage 2015 Shows

ALSO INCLUDED IN THIS ISSUE ...

Fall Programs Guide 2015

20 ANNUAL 14 REPORT

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FLIP ME OVER FOR OUR CITYPULSE FALL EDITION!

7/31/2015 5:41:40 PM

Serving the community of choice Meetings to go 2015

Council meeting dates at a glance

Spruce Grove City Council meetings and Committee of the Whole meetings typically occur on Monday evenings (or Tuesday, if the Monday is a statutory holiday), starting at 6 p.m. in council chambers on the third floor of City Hall.

Meet your council

All council meetings are open to the public.

Dates can change so for the most up-to-date council meeting calendar, visit www.sprucegrove.org/calendar.

Interested in attending a Spruce Grove City Council meeting or Committee of the Whole meeting, but not able to make it to City Hall? We’ve got you covered. The City posts podcasts of every meeting online the day following the meeting. Depending on your browser type and viewing device, the podcast file will either be downloaded directly to your desktop or streamed over the Internet. For more information and the three most recent podcasts, visit www.sprucegrove.org/podcast.

Mayor Stuart Houston shouston@sprucegrove.org

Alderman Wayne Rothe wrothe@sprucegrove.org

Alderman Louise Baxter lbaxter@sprucegrove.org

Alderman Bill Steinburg bsteinburg@sprucegrove.org

Alderman Bill Kesanko bkesanko@sprucegrove.org

Alderman Searle Turton sturton@sprucegrove.org

Alderman Ed McLean emclean@sprucegrove.org

Mayor and Council 780-962-7604

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Growing by leaps and bounds Spruce Grove population exceeds 32,000

Spruce Grove is officially home to 32,036 residents, according to the results from the City’s 2015 census.

The census also showed that Spruce Grove is a family oriented community, as the largest population groups are aged 30 to 34, followed closely by the 35 to 39 age group and then children aged 0 to 9.

The 2015 numbers demonstrate an all-time high one-year population gain of 8.5 per cent compared to 2014. Spruce Grove has had an average annual growth rate of 5.9 per cent between 2005 and 2014.

The census, which was conducted from April 8 to May 28, 2015, had a response rate of 100 per cent. A total of 12,025 households were counted.

The average household size is 2.66 people per dwelling, which is down slightly from 2.7 in 2014, but is above the average household size for Alberta of 2.4 from the 2011 Canadian

census. There is an almost equal amount of males and females in the city with only 30 more males counted across the entire community.

Single detached dwellings make up approximately two-thirds of the City’s housing, while the number of semi-detached dwellings rose by one per cent during that same period. There was also a 0.7 per cent increase in multi-unit dwellings.

Overall, 13,790 residential properties were counted, which represents an increase of about 25 per cent from 10,446 in 2010. Residential properties refer to a lot that may or may not be developed, while a household refers to an existing dwelling unit combined with the people who live there.

Residents had the option of providing their census information online, by telephone or via door-to-door enumeration. This year, 39.1 per cent of Spruce Grove households chose to respond to the census online.

Aww thanks – we’re blushing!

Spruce Grove listed in top 10 best places to raise children in Canada And just what are some of those family-friendly features?

• Multiple parks, playgrounds and recreational areas • Horizon Stage, which offers shows for people of all ages • Diverse shopping and dining opportunities • City special events, such as Canada Day and Christmas in Central Park • Programming opportunities (check out the Fall Programs Guide on page 35) • Range of housing options

Parents take note: Spruce Grove has been named as one of the 10 best places to raise your children in Canada.

The list for 2015, released by MoneySense magazine, is compiled based on data including cost, access to daycare and more.

MoneySense also included Spruce Grove in the list of top 100 best places to live in the country. Communities were measured on criteria including affordable housing, access to transit and health care, low taxes, weather, arts and sports opportunities, and job prospects.

According to the magazine, the data is provided

by Environics Analytics, Statistics Canada and other data providers.

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Tour of Alberta racing through region Professional cycling race arrives Sept. 6 Wheels will be whirring through the Tri-Municipal Region on Sunday, Sept. 6, as Spruce Grove, with support and involvement from the Town of Stony Plain and Parkland County, hosts the Tour of Alberta Stage 5 finish.The elite professional cycling race, which will be broadcast in countries across the globe, will see approximately 120 of the world’s best cyclists cruise along Alberta’s roads throughout the six-day stage race.

Stage 5 will begin in Edson and travel through Parkland County and Stony Plain before ending at Central Park in Spruce Grove.

So mark your calendar and be sure to come out and cheer on the riders as they roll into Spruce Grove!

Community Festival As we gear up for the arrival of the cyclists, join us for a fun, outdoor celebration located at the Stage 5 finish!

The community festival will feature local culture, entertainment, food and fun for the entire family.

Sunday, Sept. 6 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Central Park 450 King St., Spruce Grove

www.sprucegrove.org/TOA2015

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PRO RACE & FAN FESTIVAL | FREE TO ATTEND

SEPT. 2

| STAGE 1 TEAM TIME TRIAL:

SEPT. 3

| STAGE 2:

SEPT. 4

| STAGE 3: SUPPORTED BY THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF GREENVIEW TO

SEPT. 5

| STAGE 4: TO

SEPT. 6

| STAGE 5: TO

SEPT. 7

| STAGE 6:

Spruce Grove’s RYAN ANDERSON – the reigning Pomeroy Inn & Suites Best Canadian Champion!

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Available Sept. 8!

Bus fare available by the booklet City introduces 10-ticket booklets

Locations selling bus passes

Spruce Grove transit riders will soon have the option to buy their bus fare in booklets of 10 tickets.

City Hall, 315 Jespersen Ave.

Until now, transit riders could purchase a monthly transit pass or pay a one-way cash fare.

(two Spruce Grove locations)

Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Available at this location: • Student pass • Regular commuter pass • Integrated pass • 10-ticket booklets

The booklets will cost $48 and tickets will be accepted for one-way transit rides on Spruce Grove’s transit service. Booklets will be available for purchase starting Sept. 8 at City Hall, Shoppers Drug Mart and Mac’s stores in Spruce Grove.

Shoppers Drug Mart

Century Crossing (#100, 131 Century Crossing Rd.), Monday – Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

“Our intention behind adding this new fare option is to increase bus ridership and traveller convenience,” explains Patrick Inglis, the City’s Senior Sustainability Advisor. “We realize that not every rider wants the commitment and cost of a monthly pass and paying a cash fare isn’t always convenient.

Westland Market Mall (70 McLeod Ave., Hwy. 16A), Monday – Sunday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Available at these locations: • Student pass • Regular commuter pass • Integrated pass • 10-ticket booklets

“By introducing these ticket booklets, transit riders can pay upfront for their rides and then use the tickets as required.”

Mac’s (three Spruce Grove locations)

The ticket booklets are also more cost effective, working out to $4.80 per trip, compared to the $6 cash fare.

Tickets will be valid for two years from purchase.

628 King St., 98 McLeod Ave., and Unit 100, #3 McLeod Ave.

Available at these locations: • Regular commuter pass • 10-ticket booklets

The decision to proceed with the ticket booklets was approved by Spruce Grove City Council in July.

Transit rates

Local rates (within Spruce Grove)

Commuter rates

Cash fare 10-ticket booklet Student pass* Regular commuter pass Spruce Grove/ETS integrated pass*

$6 $48 (available Sept. 8, 2015) $95/month $130/month $165/month

*Available to Spruce Grove residents only Transit passes must be purchased before the eighth day of each month; for example, September transit passes must be purchased by Sept. 8.

Adult Youth (ages 6–17) Senior

$2 $1.75 $1.75

CNIB passholders

Free

Children under the age of five ride free with a paid passenger.

Don’t forget! Be sure to keep your monthly transit pass and/or receipt, as the Government of Canada offers a non-refundable tax credit on the cost of monthly transit passes.

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New Public Works facility open for business The City’s Public Works department staff are still pinching themselves over their new home. Located at 21 Century Close, the new Public Works facility opened for business earlier this year and while there are still a few boxes left to unpack, staff are settling in to the new building and enjoying the amenities it offers.

“It almost feels like a dream to have our staff based out of such a bright, efficient and modern environment,” said Director of Public Works Kevin Stener. “The new facility was many years in the making, but it was absolutely worth the wait.”

Previously, Public Works operated out of a shop on Schram Street that was built in 1976 when Spruce Grove had a population of only 6,000 residents. It was expanded in 1988, but with the City’s ongoing growth, the facility was no longer meeting the needs of employees or residents and age-related structural and drainage issues had become a growing problem.

The new Public Works facility was designed to accommodate an estimated 25 years of growth in the community with

Please join us for the grand opening of the City’s new Public Works facility!

Saturday, Oct. 3

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Ribbon cutting • Guided tours of new facility • Barbecue

room for additional growth and expansion if required.

The 77,199 square foot building incorporates natural light, a modern layout and a design that focuses on making the workspace more efficient for administration space, fleet vehicles, shop areas and employee work spaces.

The building also meets Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver standards with environmentally friendly features that include: • a geothermal heat pump system; • a solar hot water system; • using collected rainwater in the wash bay to clean vehicles and equipment; and • low flow plumbing fixtures.

LEED elements were also used in the building’s interior finishes, including eco-friendly ceramic tile, recycled glass and bamboo features. High ceilings and an open-concept design provide natural light to office areas.

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Sports and Recreation Facility sneak peek

Lease and rental opportunities available to community It’s been a year since construction started on the City’s new Sports and Recreation Facility and work on the site is approximately 75 per cent complete!

Located adjacent to Fuhr Sports Park and south of the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre, the three-storey facility, which is fully owned and operated by the City, will offer an assortment of opportunities to the community.

In particular, community groups will have an opportunity to lease or rent space in the facility. A lease could include an administrative office, filing storage, program space, educational opportunities and equipment storage.

One tenant that has leased a long-term home in the facility is Aerials Gymnastics who will run their programs, playschool and administrative office in the space.

Meeting and multi-purpose rooms will also be available for hourly, daily or weekend rentals. As well, Aerials Gymnastics will offer rental space in its program rooms.

For more information on room lease and rental opportunities, see pages 14-15.

The facility will also be home to the City’s Recreation Services staff, an art display and sports museum, and multi-purpose flex space suitable for uses such as combative sports programs, yoga or pilates.

The first and second storeys of the facility are currently being developed, while the third storey is being reserved as expansion space for future growth.

The anticipated opening of the facility is January 2016.

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GYM – WEST WALL

TOP FLOOR

LOBBY WINDOW

MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM

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The Sports and Recreation Facility will offer a range of opportunities, including room rentals and lease options, to the community. Take a look at what options are available!

FIRST FLOOR

Multi-purpose rooms

Storage

• • • •

Available to rent • Equipment storage lockers Each room is 682 sq. ft.

• Office storage (records) Easy access to Fuhr Sports Park • Off-season storage Suitable for community group Aerials space (for rent) programming, workshops, fitness/dry land training, yoga, • Playschool dance, combative sports, youth • Program rooms and family activities and programs, after school programsSpruce and sport clinics Grove • Access to&technology and audio Facility Sports Recreation visual equipment

Gymnastics G -Leased to A -Recreation a -Fitness, train -Non tradition tumbling, acr -School use

Play School Room 1462 sq. ft.

Program Room One 367 sq. ft.

Program Room Two 367 sq. ft.

Common/Service Areas 3,578 sq. ft.

UP

Program Roo -Leased to A -Small meetin -Birthday par -Training/fitn -Crafts

Gymnastics Support Spaces 2790 sq. ft.

Storage 462 sq. ft.

Play School R -Leased to A -Child care ro -Crafts

Storage (Leased) 262 sq. ft.

Gymnasitics -Leased to A -Change room -Retail/recep -Coaches/Fir

Gymnastics Gymnasium 17,439 sq. ft.

Storage 238 sq. ft.

UP

Multi Purpose Room One 682 sq. ft.

PROP FIRST FLOO

Multi Purpos -Rentable -Fitness and -Large group

Multi Purpose Room Two 682 sq. ft.

Storage -Leasable -Community -Heated and -Available wi

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MAIN FLOOR FINISHES PLAN

AREA : MAIN FLOOR (TO GRADE BEAM) = 2678m2

Common Spa -Gathering/Vi -Display spac

1 : 100

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Spruce Grove Sports & Recreation Facility

SE

SECOND FLOOR

Meeting Meeting Room Two Room 347 sq. ft.

One 158 sq. ft.

OPEN TO BELOW

Multi Purpose Room Three 534 sq. ft.

File Storage 50 sq. ft.

Seven Group Offices 80-180 sq. ft.

Storage 116 sq. ft.

Resource Area 865 sq. ft.

Reso -No C -Com -Train -Infor -Adm

Leased UP

Leased UP

Meet -Ren -Sma -Brea -Train -Boa -Wor -Quie

DN

City of Spruce Grove Recreation and Community Development 1900 sq. ft.

Gymnastics Viewing Capacity - 70 seated

Multi -Ren -AGM -Train -Low -Craf OPEN TO BELOW

UP

Grou -Leas -Mino -Com

Recr -Faci -Faci -Park -Com -Rec

Multi-purpose rooms • •

•

•

Available to rent 534 sq. ft. (can be combined with boardroom for larger space) Suitable for large meetings, fitness dry land training, yoga, dance, combative sports, youth and family activities and programs, and after school programs Access to technology and audio visual equipment

Meeting rooms one and two (boardroom) • Available to rent • 158 sq. ft./347 sq. ft. (can be combined with multi-purpose room for larger space) • Suitable for smaller meetings or training sessions • Access to technology and audio visual equipment

Com -Gath -Disp

Group office space Resource area • Leasable office suites of varying sizes and configurations • Medium term lease lengths (3 to 5 years) • Available as a package including storage, meeting room rentals, program space and educational training • Access to technology and audio visual equipment

•

•

•

•

•

• •

Operated by Recreation Services staff Expanded services, including evenings and weekends Access to community group resources and training Information on organizational development and sustainable practices Access to computers, printers, etc.

Staff available to assist Available for drop-in use

AREA : SECOND FLOOR = 923m2

For information on renting or leasing City space in the facility, visit www.sprucegrove.org/sportsandrecfacility or email sportsandrec@sprucegrove.org. For information on Aerials Gymnastics rental space, visit www.aerialsgymclub.com. citypulse l FALL

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City facility rentals The City of Spruce Grove provides facilities to rent for events such as wedding receptions, anniversary celebrations, birthdays, programs, meetings and sporting events. For more information call 780-962-7579, email recreation@sprucegrove.org or visit www.sprucegrove.org/facilityrentals.

Spruce Grove Agrena 9 Agrena Rd. Dry-pad rentals Available April–August Ice rentals Available August–April Agra Room (2nd floor of the Stu Barnes Arena, Spruce Grove Agrena) Capacity: 80 Available year-round Ball diamonds and sports fields Available May 1–Oct. 15, annually Community parks A rental is not required, as community parks are available for public use (including Central Park and Jubilee Park) 8 a.m.–10 p.m., daily Electronic Billboard Calahoo Rd. and Highway 16A Community group advertising Available year-round

Elks Hall 400 Diamond Ave. Capacity: 325 Available year-round Kitchen also available

Interested in booking a City facility for your event, but not sure where to begin? This rental checklist will help get you started:

Fuhr Sports Park 211 Jennifer Heil Way (Adjacent to the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre) Available April–November

p Book your date Call Recreation Services at 780-962-7579 or email recreation@sprucegrove.org to book your event up to a year in advance. Staff are available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to answer questions and reserve your date. After-hours? Visit the City of Spruce Grove’s online registration system to search rental availability and submit a rental request: www.sprucegrove.org/onlinereg.

Horizon Stage 1001 Calahoo Rd. Capacity: 300 Available September–June Call 780-962-7631 for booking information.

p Daily or weekend rental?

When planning your event, consider if you need the space just for a day, or if you would benefit from a weekend rate which, depending on the type of event, can provide access for early set up and other complimentary event, such as a gift opening or post-wedding brunch for guests.

Pioneer Centre 301 Jespersen Ave. Available year-round Call the Golden Age Club at 780-962-5020 for booking information.

p Have you applied for insurance?

Spruce Grove Curling Club 9 Agrena Rd. Call the Spruce Grove Curling Club at 780-962-3222 for booking information.

Most events require some type of special event insurance.

Many insurance companies offer some form of special event insurance coverage so check with your provider or contact a company that specializes in special event liability, such as PAL Insurance Brokers (www.palcanada.com).

p Will you be serving alcohol?

A liquor licence is required and, depending on the type of event, individuals who are serving liquor may require ProServe certification. It’s always a good idea to confirm requirements in advance with the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (www.aglc.gov.ab.ca).

The Elks Hall renovations are complete and ready for your event – come see for yourself! The hall is a great place to celebrate different events with family and friends. Make the Elks Hall your family tradition!

Renovations include new floorings, upgraded washrooms, new paint, light fixtures, doors and windows, a stone patio, landscaping and a paved parking area.

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A park with a plan Jubilee Park has a long history in Spruce Grove. Today, the park attracts thousands of residents and visitors with its spontaneous and unstructured recreational opportunities and is home to the City’s popular Canada Day Celebration.

But creating that vision, and developing a future plan for the popular destination, has been no small feat.

The concept behind Jubilee Park, located at 510 Grove Dr., started in the 1970s when “GroveCo 60” was developed, reserving 60 acres of land for the future development of multi-use sports facilities, active sports and spontaneous park space. Subsequently, a five-phase master plan was developed for Jubilee Park and construction work to implement the plan’s first three phases got underway in 2007. Construction wrapped up in 2010 and Jubilee Park officially opened to the public on July 1, 2012.

What’s next?

With 10 years since the development of the park’s original master plan and three of the five phases completed, as well as the park’s growing popularity and recent nearby residential developments, the City decided it was time for a comprehensive review of the plan. Findings from the review were presented to Spruce Grove City Council in June 2014.

The updated Jubilee Park master plan recognizes opportunities to grow and expand the venue to harness its potential to serve as a year-round destination for recreation and leisure.

Proposed improvements

• A park building with washrooms and open space for programs • Shade structures • Informative signage, asphalt trail and public art • Speed bumps • A multi-purpose building and picnic shelter • Water play feature • Tree and shrub planting, sanitary septic tank and boardwalks An implementation strategy for these improvements will be presented to city council later this year as part of the 2016-2018 Corporate Plan. Decisions on the various elements recommended in the master plan update have not yet been approved.

Jubilee Park timeline A measurement of the community’s passion and commitment to nature •

•

• •

•

• • •

• •

1970s – reserved land for future park development 1980 – developed first master plan for sport facility/public park 2000 – master plan is reviewed 2002 – second master plan is developed; TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre opens, so major sports field development is removed from the plan 2003 – GroveCo Park/Jubilee Park five-phase master plan is defined 2007 – Construction begins on phases 1, 2 and 3 2010 – Construction is completed 2012 – Jubilee Park celebrates grand opening on July 1 2014 – Jubilee Park master plan is updated 2016 and beyond – Construction to begin on future enhancements*

*Dependent on funding availability and council approval

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Parks, playgrounds and sports fields Fun Fridays at Fuhr Sports Park!

Non-prime rental rates now available all day, all season Looking for an outdoor activity that is family friendly on a Friday night? Rent a field (or two!) at Fuhr Sports Park!

Non-prime rental rates have been extended to include all day on Fridays to invite the community to experience the artificial turf facility.

Surprise your friends or family with a unique celebration. With picnic sites available just outside the facility and Rotary Playscape located adjacent to the park, Fuhr Sports Park makes a great option for any outdoor celebration.

Bring a cake, rent an hour of field time and you have yourself a party!

The non-prime rate is $33 per hour per field (there are two artificial turf fields available).

In addition to Fridays, the fields can be rented at non-prime rates as follows: • Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., 10 p.m. – 11 p.m.

• Friday: All day!

8 a.m. – 11 p.m.

• Saturday – Sunday: 8 a.m. – noon, 10 p.m. – 11 p.m.

For more information and to check availability, please visit www.sprucegrove.org.FSP.

a

th

Marlboro Off-Leash Park

Dillon Park playground

Located near Heritage Grove Park, south of Marlboro Drive, this location provides a pet-friendly area within the trail system.

Fuhr Sports Park

Located at 211 Jennifer Heil Way, Fuhr Sports Park has two artificial turf fields, a fieldhouse, splash pad and the Rotary Playscape. The fields are open April – November.

For more information visit www.sprucegrove.org/fsp or email recreation@sprucegrove.org.

COMING

Central Park

Located on King Street and Agrena Road, popular features of the area include a skating oval, community fire pit and Lions Log Cabin concession.

Spruce Ridge playground

COMING Rotary Playscape

Located at Fuhr Sports Park, this incredible playground was designed by kids, for kids, and is open 365 days a year.

*Prime time rates are $65 per hour. Non-prime rental rates do not apply to commercial rentals.

Heritage Grove Park

Located in the heart of our community, this protected natural wonder provides all weather trails and connects many of Spruce Grove’s neighbourhoods. Explore the forest year-round and enjoy the birds and animals who call the Heritage Grove Park home. Throughout the park trail system are a series of outdoor classrooms where you can learn about the history and evolution of the forest. Trail distances are labelled on the trail map for your reference.

Who to call…

For information on parks maintenance, please call Public Works at 780-962-7584.

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Park ound

Jesperdale playground

Located in the park space that runs between Ashton Gate and Calahoo Road, the playground includes a combination structure that offers engaging outdoor learning and play opportunities for all children from toddlers through 12 year olds.

Greystone Park Located in Grove Meadows, the playground offers opportunities for sliding, climbing, hanging and imaginative play.

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k

et and eatures ting oval, and ession.

Jubilee Park

Located at 510 Grove Dr., Spruce Grove’s largest outdoor recreational space offers the community the best passive and unstructured recreational opportunities in the city. From paved walking and bike trails, to picnic areas, an open air performance area, sliding hill and playground, Jubilee Park provides families with a multitude of outdoor pleasures. Similar to other community parks, a facility rental is not required. Jubilee Park’s amenities are available to the community at no cost.

Landsdowne playground Located in Lakewood, this playground has a blue and green theme.

Naturescape

Located at 600 Main St., this downtown, nature-based park links easily to the Heritage Park trails for your recreational convenience.

Cpl. Jim Galloway Memorial Off Leash Area

Henry Singer Ball Park

Located on South Avenue in the Industrial Park.

Located at 51 Century Close, this dog park is a popular destination for all dog owners, offering a designated area for small dogs and over eight acres of fenced off-leash park area.

Park ‘fun’-damentals Are you familiar with the park ‘fun’-damentals of your community?

The Heritage Grove Park trail system has been a symbol of unity in the community for nearly 30 years.

Trails link the community parks with open paved trails for biking and rollerblading and rock trails for taking a secluded walk that allows you to connect with the wonders of nature.

All Spruce Grove parks are open to the public seven days a week until 10 p.m.

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Community service & funding opportunities Community Service Partnership Program The Community Service Partnership (CSP) Program provides an opportunity for local community groups to raise funds while providing a service to the community.

The CSP program assists over 30 local groups annually.

Fundraising opportunities are available to all community groups that apply annually.

The opportunities of interest include, but are not limited to, administrative duties, special events (Canada Day, Christmas in Central Park, Mini Monster Bash), FCSS youth programming, residential mail delivery for events and programs, and the annual spring Spruce Up Spruce Grove Community Clean Up. To find out more about the program and its requirements, visit www.sprucegrove.org/cspp.

Community funding

Many of your community’s recreational and developmental programs are organized by non-profit and charitable associations that thrive on the volunteer and fundraising efforts of community, friends and family. While this

community development is essential for these programs, the Alberta Government offers grants and funding to these groups to assist with their efforts. Funding and grant information can be found on the Alberta Culture and Community Service website: www.culture.alberta.ca.

Electronic billboard

Located at Calahoo Road and Highway 16A The electronic billboard is a full colour, double-sided billboard that features a variety of advertisements with space dedicated to Spruce Grove non-profit community groups. Community groups can post information about their various projects or events on the billboard.

To find more information or book ad space, call 780-962-7579 or email recreation@sprucegrove.org.

Community Development Workshops

From time to time, workshops are offered for community and non-profit groups. To see the most current list of workshops being offered, please visit www.sprucegrove.org/workshops.

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KidSport Parkland So All Kids Can Play Every child deserves the opportunity to play.

KidSport Parkland helps economically disadvantaged children take part in organized sports. KidSport provides up to a maximum of $400 a year to kids under the age of 18 who need financial assistance to offset the cost of registration fees. Do you know someone who is in need of assistance or can you assist us in providing these services to the youth of our area with a monetary donation? Or, are you interested in volunteering as a board member?

For more information call 780-963-8648, email r.lonneberg@stonyplain.com or visit www.kidsport.ab.ca.

Outstanding Achievement Recognition Program As the Community of Choice, Spruce Grove is home to many talented individuals and groups. The Outstanding Achievement Recognition Program is one way for us, as a community, to formally celebrate each other’s accomplishments.

How does the City of Spruce Grove recognize these accomplishments?

Successful applicants will be invited to attend a regular council meeting, where they will be presented with a certificate of recognition by the Mayor and Council.

Who is eligible to receive recognition?

Individuals, teams, groups and organizations who have accomplished outstanding achievements in the areas of athletics, fine arts, academics and cultural activities are eligible.

These accomplishments will have been noted for first, second or third place at a provincial, national, international or invitational competition or event.

Does everybody need to be a resident of Spruce Grove?

No, however, the individual, team, group or organization should have Spruce Grove residents as the majority of its members and/or represent the City of Spruce Grove at the competition or event.

What do I need to do to nominate someone?

If you know of an individual or group deserving of recognition, please visit www.sprucegrove.org/OutstandingAchievement for application forms. Alternatively, you can contact us at 780-962-2611 or recreation@sprucegrove.org.

If you have articles or pictures from the competition or event please submit copies along with the application form.

Additional background information about the accomplishment is welcome. Please note applications and supporting documents will not be returned.

When is the deadline?

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Once your application is received you will be contacted to determine at which upcoming council meeting the recognition will be made.

For more information about the Outstanding Achievement Recognition program, please visit www.sprucegrove.org/ OutstandingAchievement or contact us at 780-962-2611 or recreation@sprucegrove.org.

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Fall Community Development Workshop Series 2015 Coming this fall are three community development workshops presented by the Tri-Municipal Region Community Development Committee as part of an ongoing partnership between the City of Spruce Grove, Stony Plain FCSS and Parkland County.

Event Planning for Non-Profits Whether it’s a fundraiser, volunteer appreciation, a bottle drive or an information session... it’s an event! Volunteers need to be able to create successful, relevant events that achieve the goals and objective of the organization, while utilizing resources, time and money effectively.

How Do I Do My Job? Board Role Training for Presidents/Chairs, Secretaries and Treasurers Have you been in a position on your board for a while, but feel there are gaps or areas where you need coaching or training for your role? Have you taken on a new responsibility with your board? Join us to clarify your roles and responsibilities and learn how to make your job as president/chair, secretary or treasurer more effective.

Recruiting and Retaining Volunteers for Non-Profits A course to help non-profits develop methods for recruiting and retaining volunteers.

For more information, including how to register, visit www.sprucegrove.org/workshops.

Mini Monster Bash The City of Spruce Grove, the Town of Stony Plain and Parkland County are pleased to present the annual Mini Monster Bash celebration!

Join us for a variety of spooktacular Halloween activities designed for mini monsters and their families.

• Crafts and activities are typically designed for children eight years of age and under, but older children are also welcome.

• Children will also receive a special glow-in-the-dark bag they can use when they go trick-or-treating, but limited quantities are available, so first come, first served.

• Children are invited to dress in their mini monster best! Please dress for the weather in case of lineups outside the pavilion.

There is no cost to attend, but please bring a non-perishable donation for the Parkland Food Bank.

Saturday, Oct. 31 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

The Heritage Park Pavilion, 5100-41 Ave., Stony Plain

www.sprucegrove.org/mmbash

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Go paperless and WIN! For a limited time, when you sign up for e-bill notifications (paperless billing), you’ll be entered to win a $250 gift card to the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre.

How does it work?

Our Online Services system automatically emails you when your monthly utility bill is ready to view online. Once you’re logged in, you can see all your utility information.

What are the benefits?

It’s helpful – emails you a reminder.

It’s fast – no more waiting for the mail.

It’s eco-friendly – paperless billing.

It’s convenient – log on from your smartphone or tablet.

It’s rewarding – enter to win!

Sign up for e-bill notifications today! www.sprucegrove.org/paperless Existing e-bill notification registrants are automatically entered in the prize draw.

SPRUCE GROVE SAINTS 2015 Home Game Schedule:

Free Wi-Fi on the SG_Free_Internet network is available at the Agrena, Central Park, Rotary Playscape and Fuhr Sports Park from 6 a.m. to midnight.

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Grant Fuhr Arena* Grant Fuhr Arena* Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena

Oct. 31 Nov. 4 Nov. 6 Nov. 13 Nov. 15 Nov. 21 Nov. 24 Dec. 11 Dec. 19

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Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena Swan Hills, AB Grant Fuhr Arena Grant Fuhr Arena

Whitecourt Wolverines Sherwood Park Crusaders Calgary Canucks Fort McMurray Oil Barons Bonnyville Pontiacs Lloydminster Bobcats Grande Prairie Storm Brooks Bandits Drumheller Dragons Fort McMurray Oil Barons

Whitecourt Wolverines Drayton Valley Thunder Fort McMurray Oil Barons Camrose Kodiaks Okotoks Oilers Lloydminster Bobcats Drayton Valley Thunder Grande Prairie Storm Sherwood Park Crusaders

C h e c k o ut t h e Sain t s website for m ore det ails: www.sgsaints. c o m citypulse l FALL

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City implements weekly blue bag collection Ever roll your black waste cart out to the curb and think to yourself, “Hmmm… Is blue bag recycling collection this week or next week?”

Now you have one less thing to keep track of, as the City’s blue bag collection service has recently switched to weekly pickup.

Previously, blue bags containing recyclables were collected every other week, but earlier this year the decision was made to increase collection to weekly, year-round service.

Reminder:

Organics collection moves to monthly pickup in December Residents are reminded that weekly collection of the green organics carts will continue until mid-November and then it will switch to monthly collection for December through March. Monthly collection occurs during the second full week of December, January, February and March.

TRIM YO U R TRASH

Just put your blue bags out with your black waste and green organics carts on your designated waste collection day and it will be picked up. No more checking the calendar required!

Downsize your cart

You also now have the option to downsize your black waste cart to a smaller 120-litre size cart.

The small cart is half the size of the regular sized cart, which encourages the use of blue bag recycling, the green organics cart and the Eco Centre to divert eligible waste from landfills.

S p ru ce G rove’s U l t i m ate G u i d e to WInterested h a t G ino making e s Wtheh eswitch? re Call 780-962-7634 ext. 194.

Using a smaller cart also lowers your waste collection fee from $28.50 to $25.25 per month and there is also no charge to move from a regular sized cart to a smaller cart. As an added bonus, you’ll also receive a free kitchen catcher if you make the switch to the smaller cart.

TR YO TR

S p ru Ultim What

Trim Your Trash – TRIM

TRIM YOUR

Help reduce Spruce Grove’s wasteline

YO U R TRASH

Have questions about how to properly dispose of your trash? We’ve got the answers!

Spruce Grove’s Ultimate Guide

Trim Your Trash – Spruce Grove’s Ultimate Guide to What Goes Where is an online guide that allows you to browse or search for a specific waste item to find out how to properly dispose of it. www.sprucegrove.org/TrimYourTrash

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S p ru ce G rove’s U l t i m ate G u i d e to W h a t G o e s W h e re

TRIM YOUR

Spruce Grove’s Ultimate Guid

7/31/2015 5:42:23 PM

August – December 2015 Waste Collection Schedule Organics collection – Weekly April 13–Nov. 13

– Monthly, second full week of Dec./Jan./Feb./March Statutory holidays – no service, collection moved to following weekday

Visit www.sprucegrove.org/waste for more information or call our hotline at 780-962-7584

Storing your RV for the winter

August

Garbage and blue bag collection • Weekly Organics collection • Weekly, April 13–Nov. 13 • Monthly, second full week of Dec./Jan./Feb./March

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Monday – Hilldowns, Stoneshire, Fieldstone, Linkside, Spruce Village, Greenbury, Kenton, Prescott, acreages in city Tuesday – Woodside, Lakewood, Grove Meadows Wednesday – Broxton Park, Brookwood, Woodhaven Thursday – Millgrove, Creekside, Aspenglen, Mobile City Estates, City Centre, Legacy Park, Jesperdale,

McLaughlin, Westgrove Friday – Deer Park, Sprucewood Villas, Harvest Ridge, Heatherglen, Spruce Ridge, Hawthorne

Spruce Grove RV owners are reminded that you cannot store your RV in your front or side yard, or on your driveway, from Nov. 1 to April 30. A trailer can be parked on the street for up to 72 hours, as long as it’s attached to your vehicle and doesn’t violate any other bylaws or the Traffic Safety Act. Recreational vehicles are defined as “a portable structure designed to provide temporary living quarters that is either carried on or pulled by a vehicle; a vehicle that is designed to provide temporary living quarters to be used for travel, recreation, leisure or vacation purposes, including, but not limited to, travel trailers, truck campers, fifth wheel trailers, motor homes and tent trailers, boats and snowmobiles.”

The rules for RV parking can be found in the City of Spruce Grove Land Use Bylaw, the Nuisances, Unsightly and Untidy Property Bylaw and the Spruce Grove Traffic Bylaw.

Eco Centre – 50 Diamond Ave.

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday and Monday: Closed Statutory holidays: Closed

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An unexpected delivery Community comes together to support single mother

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It was just so overwhelming to me. I can’t put into words how grateful I was and still am for all the support I received. – Brittany Morris

It was a normal day for single mom Brittany Morris. She got her son Alex ready for school, dropped him off and came home.

Shortly thereafter she started having abdominal pains, which she attributed to a standard stomach ache. Two short hours later she was alone in her bathroom, holding her new seven pound 12 ounce baby boy in her arms. The biggest surprise of all? She didn’t even know she was pregnant.

Brittany’s story may sound like the makings of an exciting television show, but sitting in her bathroom with an unexpected newborn was more of a harsh reality for the now 26-year-old.

She had no supplies for a baby and quickly started to feel overwhelmed at her new situation. So she called someone she knew would understand and would be able to help – a friend she had met through the Spruce Grove Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) Young Moms support group.

Her friend immediately came over, called an ambulance and while Brittany was recovering in hospital, started rallying the troops.

She contacted other members of the Young Moms group and Beverley Barker, FCSS Supervisor – Adults and Families who facilitates the group, who in turn put out the word with her contacts including NeighbourLink and local church groups.

The friend also shared Brittany’s story on the Compassionate Connections Facebook page, which is a local organization that assists individuals and families in need.

Arrangements were made to care for Alex while Brittany was in the hospital and by the time she was ready to come home, she was equipped with a car seat for her baby boy – named William – as well as diapers, a crib, a swing, formula, bottles, clothing and gift cards to allow her to purchase other necessities.

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“It was just so overwhelming to me,” said Brittany. “I can’t put into words how grateful I was and still am for all the support I received.”

And the support didn’t end when she came home, either.

“It took me about a month to process what had happened,” says Brittany, and during that time she continued to receive support from the community, her friends and her family who also live in the area. “It was wonderful to be surrounded by people who loved and cared about me and the boys.”

She also continued attending Young Moms, which is a free weekly drop-in support group for expecting and new mothers to share the experiences, joys and challenges of parenting as a young mom. The program, which provides childcare, also has an educational component with presentations on topics such as self-esteem, nutrition, budgeting, child development and discipline. For Brittany, who has been an active participant for years, it’s been a critical lifeline and support.

“It was very helpful to have support from moms my own age,” said Brittany, adding she appreciates the opportunity to get out of her home and her comfort zone. “I’ve learned it’s important to take care of myself first,” she said. “Even just 10 minutes a day can make such a difference.”

She’s also been able to share what she’s learned with other moms who have more recently started attending the program.

“It makes me feel good to tell them what I’ve been through and how I’ve been able to succeed.”

Additionally, Brittany has benefited from programs offered

by Alberta Parenting for the Future Association. Based in Stony Plain, the organization encourages and supports individuals to strengthen their relationships within their families and communities.

“Brittany should be very proud of herself for being open to these supports,” says Barker, who has seen first-hand how Brittany has successfully managed the challenge of being a young mother and a single parent. “It’s one thing to know they are available, but it’s another to recognize how they can help you and be willing to use them.”

Brittany, who moved to Spruce Grove just before Alex was born, says she feels at home in the community that supported her in her time of need.

“I’ve made so many great friends here and it’s also important for me to be close to my family,” she says. “I don’t want to live anywhere else.”

Now her focus is on six-year-old Alex who is attending Grade 1 at Broxton Park School in the fall and her unexpected gift William, who is now 17 months old.

“I want to keep active and stay in contact with the friends I’ve made here,” Brittany said. “And I want to look after my boys and make sure they are getting all the support they need.”

Check out our Fall Programs Guide on page 35!

Young Moms

Meets weekly on Wednesdays (Sept. 30 – Dec. 9) from 3:30–5 p.m. at the Spruce Grove FCSS office.

For more information call Beverley at 780-962-7634 ext.160.

Compassionate Connections

www.facebook.com/compassionateconnections1

NeighbourLink

www.neighbourlinkparkland.com 780-960-9669

Alberta Parenting for the Future Association

www.apfa.ca 780-963-0549

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e

221 Jennifer Heil Way • Spruce Grove • 780.960.5080 •

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up

close

&

personal!

Extra shows added!

We’ve added extra shows to three of our upcoming performances! If you were thinking of attending one of these performances, don’t delay and get your tickets soon.

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Rave On: The Buddy Holly Experience – 2 p.m. matinee added on Saturday, Nov. 21 A Quartette Christmas – 2 p.m. matinee added on Saturday, Dec. 5 Lisa Brokop: The Patsy Cline Project – 7:30 p.m. show added on Tuesday, April 5

City Hall Ticket Centre 315 Jespersen Ave, Spruce Grove Monday – Friday 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

780-962-8995 OR 1-888-655-9090 horizonstage.com Box Office at Horizon Stage, 1001 Calahoo Road, is open one hour prior to performances

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Horizon Stage 2015 Shows Marie-Joseé Lord Trio

Saturday, September 26 – 7:30 p.m.

Soprano with Piano and Violin Marie-Josée Lord has a stunning voice and an on-stage presence that will make you fall in love with the music she is singing — be it classical, opera, or something more main-stream. Since her professional debut in 2003, she has performed several iconic roles, including Mimi in Puccini’s La Bohème, the title role in Puccini’s Suor Angelica, and Fiordilgi in Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutte. Along with violinist Antoine Bareil, and pianist Hugues Cloutier, the trio presents their program Jambalaya — a spicy collection of audience favourites. With her own personal style, voice, charisma, and choice of repertoire, Ms. Lord delivers a gourmet recital where classical, opera, and popular genres are tastefully entwined and served in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Tickets: $35 Adults, $30 Students & Seniors mariejoseelord.com/en/ Presented by Prairie Debut

Barry Allen and the New Rebels Friday, October 2 – 7:30 p.m.

Classic Rock with Roots and Country

Time to wear your dancing shoes to Horizon Stage again! Barry Allen has enjoyed a successful career as a performer and recording artist. He saw success as a band member (Wes Dakus and the Rebels, Painter), and also as a solo artist with Capital Records. Barry won several Maple awards (pre-Junos) in the 60s, scored a No. 1 hit in 1966 with the song “Lovedrops”, and had many other top 100 recordings. His 1970 release of “Wednesday In Your Garden”, produced by Randy Bachman, led to a hosting slot on the national CTV music show, Come Together.

Barry now runs a successful recording studio in Edmonton and is enjoying renewed interest in his music career with his new band The New Rebels.

His bandmates - Al McGee, Percy Marshall, Clay White, and Del Chadwick – are past members of The Lords, Privilege, Nomads, and/or The Classics.

Together they play classic rock hits of the 60s and 70s with some roots and country tossed into the mix. All guaranteed to make you want to get up out of your seat and dance — so we want you to do just that.

one

Tickets: $35 Adults, $30 Students & Seniors

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Horizon Stage 2015 Shows

Jeremy Fisher with Ariana Gillis

Sing-a-Long-a Grease

After developing a devoted fan base through five folk-influenced releases, Jeremy Fisher is boldly venturing in a new, more popinfluenced direction with his new album The Lemon Squeeze.

Known for his witty lyrics and distinctive animated videos, his 2007 song “Cigarette” has been viewed more than two million times on YouTube. This two-time Juno nominee has never been one to travel down the most obvious — or easiest — paths.

His commitment to touring by bike is a case in point. Since 1998 he has biked across North America, an astonishing three times, performing in numerous towns and cities along the way. Jeremy has toured with Said the Whale, Hannah Georgas, Sarah Slean and Xavier Rudd, opened for the Proclaimers and Great Big Sea, recorded with Hawksley Workman and Serena Ryder, and appeared twice on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson.

Opening for Jeremy will be Canadian Folk Music Award-winner Ariana Gillis.

Have you ever been watching a musical on the big screen and had the uncontrollable urge to burst into song? Ever wanted to know what it’s like to be a T-bird or a Pink Lady? Now is your chance to don your poodle skirt or black leather jacket, slick back your hair, and let go of your inhibitions!

The evening begins with the Sing-a-long-a Grease hosts leading the audience through a vocal warm-up, showing you how to use your ‘free fun pack’ during the film, and suggesting appropriate heckles and accompanying actions. Then, sit back and watch Danny, Sandy, and the gang, while singing (and dancing) along to the lyrics on the screen. It couldn’t be easier… or more fun!

Costumes are strongly encouraged and audience participation is essential. Perfect for a family outing, a girl’s night, or a birthday celebration.

Saturday, October 3 – 7:30 p.m.

Folk and Pop Music

Tickets: $35 Adults, $30 Students & Seniors

Saturday, October 17 – 7:30 p.m.

Interactive Movie Screening

Tickets: $20 All Ages

www.singalonga.net/grease

jeremyfishermusic.com

Brent Butt

Thursday, October 8 – 7:30 p.m. – SOLD OUT Stand-Up Comedy

Strathcona String Quartet Friday, October 30 – 7:30 p.m.

Chamber Music

Creator and star of the #1 comedy series on Canadian television, Corner Gas, Brent Butt is a comedic genius. Born in Tisdale, Sask., he moved to the “big city” at age 20 to pursue a career in stand-up comedy. Brent has since headlined major festivals, won multiple comedy awards, toured internationally, and secured a reputation for being one of the funniest people in the country. Following the 2004 debut of Corner Gas, Brent quickly became a household name. Broadcast in over 26 countries for six seasons, the show was a huge hit and won multiple awards. His second sitcom, Hiccups, aired for two seasons on CTV (2010–2011) and he recently wrote and starred in two movies, No Clue (2013) and Corner Gas: The Movie (2014). Aside from TV and film production, Brent continues to tour the country performing stand-up as often as he can.

The Strathcona String Quartet is Edmonton’s most outstanding and versatile professional chamber ensemble. Performing together since 1987, they regularly play everywhere in Alberta from the large concert and recital stages to weddings, conventions, and garden parties. They have released two highly praised CDs which are frequently played by radio stations across North America including CBC, CKUA, and CJSR. The Strathcona String Quartet perform works by local and international composers and most of the classical and romantic repertoire written for string quartets. They are now venturing into the wonderful world of historically informed performance of early music on period instruments. Members include founder Jennifer Bustin and Shannon Johnson (of the McDades) on violin, Josephine Van Leir on cello, and Sarah Woodman on viola. Program will include works by Brahms, Beethoven, and Charles Avison.

brentbutt.com

strathconastringquartet.com

Tickets: $42.50 All Ages

Tickets: $35 Adults, $30 Students & Seniors

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www.horizonstage.com Bouge de là: Bedtime!

Kirby Sewell Band

A child’s bed: place for discovery, imagination, and transformation. A cozy place to dream, and platform for playing. Combining movement with theatrics and multi-media effects, this contemporary dance piece

by Montreal’s Bouge de là explores slices of childhood from infancy to adolescence. Previous performances at Horizon Stage include Like the 5 Fingers on your Hand and The Studio. You are invited to wear your pajamas, cuddle up in your theatre seat, and get ready for bedtime!

Called “dynamite”, “soul shaking”, and a “whiskey gargled, power crooner”, Kirby Sewell was born to sing. This big Blues shouter, who stands six-foot-six, belts out his tunes like the great soul singers of the past. Reaching out with modern interpretations, Kirby and his band-mates’ R & B arrangements are amped up and invigorating. Their songs, “Devil’s in the Details” and “Till The River Starts to Overflow”, both charted at number one on Canada’s Roots Music Report, and their music is played on SiriusXM, CBC, CKUA and Galaxy networks. The Kirby Sewell Band has performed at national and regional venues and festivals, and has shared the stage with Colin James, Trombone Shorty, Burton Cummings, Coco Montoya, Blue Rodeo, and the Downchild Blues Band.

Saturday, November 7 – 2 p.m.

Family Matinee – Dance for Young Audiences

Recommended Age: 4 + Years

Tickets: $12 All Ages bougedela.org

Christine Tassan et les Imposteures Saturday, November 14 – 7:30 p.m.

Upbeat Gypsy Jazz Music

Pioneers in a genre dominated by men, this all-female quartet reinvents timeless gypsy jazz music by integrating new ideas and influences with originality and flair. Christine Tassan et les Imposteures play everything from standard favourites to original compositions. The group has been touring since 2003, and has performed at the Montreal International Jazz Festival, and been invited to the famed Django Reinhardt Festival in Samois-sur-Seine, France, where the legendary manouche guitarist lived. On stage they are dynamic, improvising with ease and blending their voices together in perfect harmony. But it’s Christine Tassan, Blanche Baillargeon, Martine Gaumond, and Lise-Anne Ross’ personal bond that hits home the most - they are, first and foremost, four friends harnessing their love of gypsy jazz and their incredible musical talents to present a friendly, engaging, upbeat, and flavourful show.

Tickets: $35 Adults, $30 Students & Seniors christinetassanetlesimposteures.com/en

Friday, November 20 – 7:30 p.m.

Blues, Roots, and Rock Music

Tickets: $35 Adults, $30 Students & Seniors kirbysewellband.com

Rave On! The Buddy Holly Experience Saturday, November 21 – 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Classic Rock Music Tribute

Rave On! is no ordinary tribute show. This electrifying, high-energy, rock n’ roll extravaganza features America’s premiere Buddy Holly interpreter, Billy McGuigan. Backed by the rockin’ Rave On Band, Billy breathes new life into the music of the legendary Buddy Holly. Audiences will experience all the thrills of a Buddy Holly concert, including such hits as “Peggy Sue”, “That’ll Be the Day”, “Oh Boy” and of course, “Rave On.” But, that’s only part of it. In a unique twist, Billy, as Buddy, celebrates the birth of an era – paying homage to rockers Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper. A dead-ringer for the legendary rocker, concert-goers continue to be awed by his energy, realism, sincerity, and talent.

Tickets: $40 Adults, $35 Students & Seniors billymcguigan.com

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A Quartette Christmas Saturday, December 5 – 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Country and Christmas Music

The four members of Quartette: Cindy Church, Caitlin Hanford, Gwen Swick, and Sylvia Tyson, are seasoned singer/ songwriters whose influences range from blues and gospel to folk and country to jazz and pop. Performing together since 1993, they have received several Juno nominations and won a Canadian Country Music Award for Best Vocal Collaboration. Publicly and critically acclaimed for their lush harmonies, Quartette’s beautiful voices blend together perfectly whether they are performing traditional holiday favourites or their own original Christmas songs. Listening to one of their Christmas CDs, It’s Christmas! (1996), or I See A Star (2002) and attending one of their charming Christmas concerts is a holiday tradition for many Canadians. An evening spent with Quartette is always a magical musical journey — when better to celebrate the magic than at Christmas time?

Tickets: $40 Adults, $35 Students & Seniors quartette.com

Christmas with River City Big Band

Saturday, December 19 – 7:30 p.m.

Big Band Christmas Music Horizon Stage is pleased to welcome Edmonton’s premier semi-professional jazz band back to Spruce Grove.

River City Big Band’s Christmas show sold out our theatre in 2009 and 2012 and we’re sure that audiences are going to love them again. With members who share a common enthusiasm for big band jazz, River City Big Band performs everything from classics to modern hits. The show is jam-packed with jazzy favourites that are sure to get your toes tapping and fill your heart with holiday wonder.

Celebrating their landmark 20th season, the members of River City Big Band play together for the sheer exhilaration of making music – let their enthusiasm and Christmas spirit sweep you away.

Tickets: $35 Adults, $30 Students & Seniors rivercitybigband.com

2016 Shows JANUARY: Fred Penner – Family Matinee Kira Isabella with Livy Jeanne Will Stroet and the Backyard Band – Munchkin Matinee Derina Harvey Band FEBRUARY: Rosie and the Riveters Grim and Fischer by WONDERHEADS Six Guitars MARCH: Canada’s Ballet Jörgen: Sleeping Beauty Suddenly Mommy Jayme Stone’s Lomax Project APRIL: Lisa Brokop: The Patsy Cline Project Dufflebag Theatre: Snow White – Family Matinee David Myles The Contenders: Valdy and Gary Fjellgaard *Programming subject to change without notice

Horizon Stage rentals For your next special event, consider renting the Horizon Stage. It is an intimate and acoustically-superb 318 seat venue that is suitable for a wide variety of events, including seminars, training sessions, guest speakers, conferences, photo shoots, workshops and community concerts.

All rentals include technical assistance, and basic lighting and sound.

For information on our competitive rental rates, call 780-962-7631.

City Hall Ticket Centre: 315 Jespersen Ave. 780-962-8995 Theatre: 1001 Calahoo Rd. (adjoining Spruce Grove Composite High School)

www.horizonstage.com

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Fall Programs Guide 2015

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Program registration just a click away Signing up for one of the City of Spruce Grove’s programs is easy with the City’s online registration system.

The system, which also allows residents to view City facility availability online, can be used to register for all upcoming FCSS programs.

Fall registration opens at 9 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 24, 2015.

How do I sign up for an account?

1. Visit www.sprucegrove.org/onlinereg 2. Click on the Create an Account link 3. Enter the required information 4. Click the Create an Account button And you’re done! Your account has been created and you can register for City programs.

Benefits

Some benefits of the City’s online registration system are: • Your login name is your email address, which is easy to remember.

• Households can have a family account with multiple logins, allowing different family members to register individually using their own passwords.

Options

The registration system provides other great options, including: • The ability to register for programs immediately after setting up an account.

• A wish list feature. Before registration officially opens, you can login, find and save the program(s) that interest you. When registration opens, simply pick your wish list programs and register for them without having to search for them again.

• A Facebook widget. This allows you to let your friends on Facebook know that you have registered in a program and would like them to join you.

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Spruce Grove Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) is a partnership between the City of Spruce Grove, Parkland County and the Province of Alberta. The mandate of FCSS is to provide locally-driven, preventative social initiatives to enhance the well-being of individuals, families and the community.

Information and referral 780-962-7583 Our information and referral specialists connect people with program and service information related to: • Basic needs • Financial assistance • Emotional and mental health • Parenting and childcare • Senior services • Recreation and social programs • Volunteer opportunities • Rental assistance • And much more…

These specialists are experts at listening to your problem, assessing the situation, and finding the best available program or service to help you.

After hours and on weekends people simply need to call 2-1-1.* *Service not available in all areas of Parkland County.

Free resources available for pickup

Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS work together to develop The Green Book Community Resource Directory.

This directory contains a summary of the community resources and support groups in the Parkland region and is a valuable tool for anyone looking for services. The Community Resource Directory is available free of charge at Stony Plain Town Office, Spruce Grove City Hall or Spruce Grove FCSS. Please call 780-962-7618 (Spruce Grove) or 780-963-8583 (Stony Plain) for more information.

A wide variety of other resources are also available at the Spruce Grove FCSS office.

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FCSS Programs FCSS provides programs for seniors, youth, adults and families. Many of our programs are the result of partnerships with local businesses and other agencies. Our partners are named in individual program descriptions. Spruce Grove FCSS would like to thank all its partners and sponsors for their generous support.

FCSS FAMILIES

Program registration starts Monday, Aug. 24, at 9 a.m.

Mom’s Morning Out

• • •

•

Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Fees must be paid in full at the time of registration.

Registration is required for all sessions unless otherwise stated.

Subsidies are available to low-income families.

Please ask for details.

Refund policy

• Full refunds will be issued upon cancellation of a program or workshop.

• The full registration fee less $5 per registrant will be refunded, or applied to another program, up to five business days prior to the start of the program.

How to register:

By phone: 780-962-7618 – using Visa or Mastercard In person: Spruce Grove FCSS office, 105-505 Queen St. Online: www.sprucegrove.org/onlinereg

Counselling services

Spruce Grove FCSS provides professional, confidential counselling services to low-income families and individuals. Services are available on Tuesdays at the FCSS office. For more information call 780-962-7618.

Alberta Health Services – Addiction and mental health

Alberta Health Services provides a range of outpatient services focused on meeting the needs of adults, youth and families who are affected by substance abuse. An AHS counsellor meets with clients at the Spruce Grove FCSS office on Fridays.

Individual appointments must be booked in advance by calling AHS directly at 780-963-8098.

This program brings moms together to learn, share, socialize and support each other. It is a great opportunity to meet other moms and a fun way for your child to socialize with other children. Moms attend sessions that include guest speakers and discussion time while qualified childcare staff care for children 15 months and older. Please register for childcare separately.

Tuesdays or Wednesdays Sept. 22 – Dec. 9 (except Nov. 10 and 11) 9:30–11 a.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $80/person (includes all sessions plus limited childcare for children 15 months and older)

Parents’ Friday Morning Coffee

Join us for a play date! Socialize with other parents while your children play in a cheerful, relaxed environment. This program allows parents a chance to develop new friendships for themselves and their children, and to share ideas and support one another along the journey of parenthood.

Fridays Sept. 25 – Dec. 11 9:30–11 a.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free, drop-in

Parent and Tot Drop-In

This is a great opportunity for parents and their children (up to 5 years old) to get out and enjoy games, crafts, songs and rhymes that promote and strengthen the bond between parent and child.

Tuesdays Sept. 22 – Dec. 8 10–11:30 a.m.

Parkland Village Community Centre, 60-53222 Rge. Rd. 272 Free, drop-in A partnership between Spruce Grove FCSS, Alberta Parenting for the Future and Parkland Village Community Centre.

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Developmental Domains Physical Health & Well-Being Social Competence Emotional Maturity

e er

and ren y.

Language & Thinking

Little Chefs

Communication Skills & General Knowledge

Come and discover some kid-friendly snack ideas and enjoy spending quality time with your 3 to 5 year old in this highly interactive program. We will also be feeding children’s appetites for learning and creativity with food-themed books and activities.

Parents are required to attend and are welcome to bring up to two children with them to this program.

Mondays Nov. 23 – Dec. 14 10–11:30 a.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $35/family

Toddler Time: Play, Learn and Grow This fun, interactive program offers you and your toddler (ages 1 to 2 ½) an opportunity to meet new friends and play in a comfortable, stimulating environment. A centre-based play setting will introduce your child to activities that promote all areas of development. Children will enjoy songs, stories, arts and crafts, while parents enjoy watching them play, learn and grow. Siblings are welcome.

Mondays Sept. 28 – Nov. 9 10–11:15 a.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $25/family

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FCSS ADULTS Start Smart: Money for your Children’s Future Education

A representative will discuss the benefits and ways to open a registered education saving plan (RESP) for your child/children or grandchildren. The focus will be on the grant money that is matched from the government. Bring your child’s SIN number to sign up for free money on the spot!

Tuesday, Sept. 22 12–1 p.m.

Family Connection Centre, 5600-50 St., Stony Plain $5/person Lunch and limited childcare provided Registration required – call 780-963-0549 A partnership between APFA, Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Homecare and Continuing Care Access

A representative from Alberta Health Services will describe who is eligible for continuing care services, including home care, supportive living and facility living. An overview will be provided of the supports available through home care programs and how one would access supportive or facility living should the need for more supports arise.

Wednesday, Sept. 30 10–11 a.m.

WestView Health Centre, 4405 South Park Dr., Stony Plain Free Registration required – call 780-962-7618 A partnership between Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

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Caregiver Navigator: For Professionals Caregiver Navigator is a one-day workshop that trains health professionals, service providers and community agency staff to better support caregivers by showing them how to identify caregivers early in their journey, support caregivers to adopt self-care practices and facilitate caregivers access to programs, resources and referrals.

Friday, Oct. 2 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Stony Plain Town Office, 4905-51 Ave., Stony Plain $30/person Registration required – call 780-963-8583 A partnership between Alberta Caregivers Association, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Employment as a Mature Worker

Join us for tips and strategies in finding and maintaining employment as a mature worker. Discussion will include job search skills, resume writing tips, discussing age concerns and much more.

Wednesday, Oct. 14 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free Registration required – call 780-962-7618

A partnership between Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Basic Facilitation Skills Training Workshop Level 1

Are You Stuck in a Rut and Can’t Get Up?

Being stuck in a rut is never fun. Being in a rut makes you more prone to depression and negative thinking – the two things that will keep you in your rut for even longer. When you are not making any progress toward a particular goal and feel completely stuck, the key to making a big change is to make little changes. Join us to discuss the possibilities of change.

Saturday, Oct. 17 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free (bring a bagged lunch) Registration required – call 780-962-7618 A partnership between Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Estate Planning and Wills

The presenter will discuss the purpose of writing a will, what is involved in making a will and what some of the common mistakes are. A legal representative from the Canadian Public Legal Education Association will present information and answer questions on estate planning and wills.

Monday, Oct. 19 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Norquest College – 101, 3201-43 Ave., Stony Plain Free Registration required – call 780-962-7618

A partnership between Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Professional facilitators from Alberta Culture provide hands-on “learn while doing” accessible instruction in the art of group facilitation. This is a practical workshop that provides learning through instruction, discussion, small and large group work, practice and feedback. This course is not intended for professional facilitators.

Oct. 14 – 16 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. #101 main floor, Provincial Building, 4709-44 Ave., Stony Plain $169/person Registration required – call 780-963-8583 or visit www.stonyplain.com/fcss for registration form Registration deadline is Oct. 7.

A partnership between Alberta Culture, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Handling Anger Boot Camp

Learn how to express anger without hurting yourself, others or your relationships. This six-week program will help you to think your way through life, instead of reacting to it. This is a fast paced and practical course that will help you change the destructive force of anger into positive energy at your work and home.

Thursdays Oct.15 – Nov. 19 6–8 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $45/person Registration required – call 780-962-7618 A partnership between Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

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Debt Management

Whether you owe a little or a lot, debt can quickly get out of hand and overwhelm your life. In this workshop, we will look at options available to take care of your debt, as well as look at the importance of managing your finances today in order to avoid future debt. Learn how to tackle debt the right way in order to reach your goals and build a bright financial future for you and your family.

Tuesday, Oct. 20 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free Registration required – call 780-962-7618

A partnership between Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Dealing with Difficult People

Are you confident and productive when dealing with negative, unresponsive or angry people? How do you deal with bullying in your workplace or life in general? Learn how to examine and recognize your social style and styles of others, while implementing methods that convert negative situations into positive outcomes.

Tuesday, Oct. 27 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Stony Plain Town Office, 4905-51 Ave., Stony Plain $10/person Registration required – call 780-962-7618 A partnership between Scotiabank, Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Personal Directives and Power of Attorney: Information Session

A personal directive and enduring power of attorney are legal documents you should write in case something medically disabling happens and you cannot make your own personal or financial decisions in the future. Representatives from the Office of the Public Guardian will present information and answer questions.

Wednesday, Oct. 28 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free Registration required – call 780-962-7618

A partnership between Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Being an Executor: Attorney or Agent:

What are the roles and responsibilities for each of these designations? If you are asked to act in any of these capacities do you know what is expected of you? Do you know where to get help if you need it? A legal representative will present information and answer questions.

Monday, Nov. 2 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Norquest College, 101-3201 43 Ave., Stony Plain Free Registration required – call 780-962-7618

A partnership between Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Get Happy!

Where are you on the happiness scale? Your state of happiness has a direct impact on your sense of satisfaction and confidence and your ability to enjoy the good times and manage the challenging ones. Join us for a three-part series that will focus on happiness – getting it and keeping it! You will learn what really makes people happy and some simple strategies for finding more happiness in your life.

Tuesdays, Nov. 3–17 7–9 p.m.

Stony Plain Town Office, 4905-51 Ave., Stony Plain $30/person Registration required – call 780-962-7618 A partnership between APFA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

The HOME Program

Developed to meet the need in the community to assist moderate income individuals and families in becoming home owners, the HOME program features education, referrals, one-on-one counselling, down payment assistance, matching with housing products and housing professionals, and ongoing support. Counselling and follow-up are essential elements of the program to ensure resources, support and advocacy are available in the process toward home ownership.

Wednesday, Nov. 4 – 7–9 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 7 – 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free, but registration is required.

Register online at www.thehomeprogram.ca

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A partnership between The HOME Program, Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

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Financial Benefits for Older Adults

Come and hear updates on information regarding seniors financial benefits. Representatives from Alberta Seniors and Service Canada will present information and answer questions on provincial and federal seniors financial programs.

Wednesday, Nov. 18 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Stony Plain Town Office, 4905-51 Ave., Stony Plain Free Registration required – call 780-962-7618 A partnership involving Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Utilities Consumer Advocate: Empowering Albertans

The UCA provides consumers with the information, education and advice they need to make informed choices about how to purchase electricity and natural gas and how to manage their energy consumption in a cost effective manner.

Wednesday, Nov. 25 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free Registration required – call 780-962-7618

A partnership between Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Budget Basics

Whether we like it or not, money is a big part of our lives. It can control us or we can take charge and learn to be in control.

This workshop will help you work out where your money is going, develop an effective spending plan and achieve your financial goals and dreams.

Wednesday, Dec. 2 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free Registration required – call 780-962-7618 A partnership between Scotiabank, Tri-CALA, Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Gifts of Imperfection

This workshop is based on the work of Dr. Brene Brown studying vulnerability and authenticity and the impact these traits can have on our relationships and our ability to live life to the fullest.

Participants will explore ways to enhance their self-esteem and increase their sense of love and belonging, which can help them to live wholeheartedly and embrace a more authentic way of being. Join us on a journey as we let go of who we think we are supposed to be and embrace who we really are.

Saturday, Dec. 5 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $25 (bring a bagged lunch) Registration required – call 780-962-7618 A partnership involving Stony Plain FCSS and Spruce Grove FCSS.

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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADULTS

FCSS SENIORS AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES Seniors/Persons with Disabilities Resource Centre

We provide services, programs and outreach to seniors and persons with disabilities. Services include sharing government program and housing information, assistance completing forms, referral and outreach services.

Spruce Grove Home Support Program Adopt-A-Driveway

For seniors and persons with disabilities.

Adopt-A-Driveway is a program where individuals can commit to removing snow from the driveway and entranceway of a community resident in need. If you are interested in volunteering, or you need to have your snow removed (in Spruce Grove), please call NeighbourLink at 780-960-9669 to register in this program.

A partnership involving NeighbourLink Parkland and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Community Volunteer Income Tax Clinic

Lend a hand! Each year the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program helps low income individuals complete their tax returns.

If you have a basic understanding of income tax and would like to volunteer, please contact Spruce Grove FCSS at 780-962-7618.

Meals on Wheels

Spruce Grove Meals on Wheels provides a hot, nutritious meal for people who are unable to prepare their own meals. Volunteer drivers help keep costs affordable for the people who need this service.

To volunteer to deliver Meals on Wheels or to arrange meal delivery, call Tracy at 780-619-8186.

The Spruce Grove Home Support Program is a light housekeeping service that provides supports to seniors, persons with disabilities and families. The program maintains a referral list of qualified home support workers who help clients remain in their own homes by doing housekeeping tasks that they are unable to do themselves. FCSS facilitates the matching of independent home support workers with eligible residents of Spruce Grove and Parkland County.

For information regarding eligibility, services and subsidies (for persons with low income), call 780-962-7618.

The Adventures of Aging Conference

Come spend the day at the annual seniors conference!

There will be great entertainment, a wonderful lunch, physical fitness demonstrations and presentations on: The Adventures in Aging and Living Your Adventurous Life.

Thursday, Oct. 8 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Holy Trinity Catholic Church Hall 200 Boundary Rd., Spruce Grove $25/person Registration required Tickets available at Spruce Grove FCSS, Stony Plain FCSS and the Parkland County office.

Seniors Dance Night

Would you enjoy a fun night out, complete with entertainment and snacks? Seniors and friends are invited for an evening of music, dancing, friendship and fun. Transportation may be arranged.

Second Monday of each month (third Monday if a statutory holiday falls on the second Monday) 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Parkland Village Community Centre, 60-53222 Rge. Rd. 272 Free (donations accepted), drop-in A partnership involving Parkland Village Community Centre and Spruce Grove FCSS.

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Seniors Coffee Afternoon

If you are 55+ and interested in meeting other seniors from the community, please join us for a casual and pleasant coffee afternoon. Refreshments provided. Transportation may be arranged.

Tuesdays 1–3 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free (donations accepted), drop-in

Golden Age Club, 55+

Scheduled events include: floor curling, carpet bowling, snooker and pool, exercising, Tai Chi, line dancing, Bridge, Whist, Canasta, Euchre, painting classes, shuffle board, darts, quilting and woodwork.

Pioneer Centre, 301 Jespersen Ave., Spruce Grove For information call 780-962-5020.

Specialized Transit Service (STS)

STS is a non-profit, door-to-door public transportation service for all seniors (55+) and persons with mobility challenges. STS is available for use by residents of the City of Spruce Grove, Parkland Village and the defined limits of Parkland County.

STS operates three wheelchair accessible vehicles. Two small vans accommodate individuals and/or small groups, while the 20-passenger van can accommodate larger groups including a maximum of four wheelchairs.

Special event trips are also planned.

Office hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Service hours: Monday – Friday 7 a.m.–4 p.m.

For more information call 780-962-2456.

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FCSS Youth Registered programs Many of our courses are now being offered on PD days as well as right after school! Find the date and time that will work for your schedule! For a more detailed description of these courses please visit www.kidproofcanada.com

Please note for all weekend and after school programs, participant drop off will begin 10 minutes before the course is scheduled to start.

Weekend courses Babysitter Training (ages 11–14)

Home Alone + First Aid (ages 10+)

Optional extras: personal journal – $5; 8 x 10 certificate – $3

Optional extras: Parent book – $6

Join us as we offer Kidproof Canada’s number one course in the country! Babysitter Training is designed to increase confidence and provide the hands on experience and skills needed to be a great babysitter.

Oct. 3 or Dec. 12 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $58/person (includes a babysitter’s handbook and wallet card) Nov. 21 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Parkland Village Community Centre (located adjacent to Parkland Village School) $58/person (includes a babysitter’s handbook and wallet card) Optional extras: personal journal – $5; 8 x 10 certificate – $3

This is a mix of Kidproof’s top Home Alone course and Emergency First Aid. This fun and active course helps prepare kids to be at home alone and how to respond to medical emergencies.

Sept. 26, Nov. 28 or Dec. 19 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $53/person Oct. 17 9 a.m. –1 p.m.

Parkland Village Community Centre (located adjacent to Parkland Village School) $53/person Optional extras: Parent book – $6

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After school courses Conflict Resolution (ages 10–14) This course is designed to teach children appropriate conflict resolution skills with peers, educators and parents.

This valuable program gives students the ability to resolve or diffuse a situation in a healthy and productive manner before it becomes out of control, dangerous or violent.

Nov. 18 4–6 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $30/person

Social Media Netiquette (ages 10–15)

Bullyproofing (ages 7–11)

This Kidproof program is designed to be preventative and proactive so that children can avoid being bullied, and if they are bullied, know how to stop it. In an interactive, non-threatening manner, children learn how to become “Bullyproofed”.

Nov. 4 4–6 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $30/person

This course will teach students appropriate skills when using different forms of social media such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. It will focus on practical things students can do to make sure they are making good decisions online. Topics include protecting personal identity, safe online interaction and how to deal with cyber bullying.

Oct. 21 4–6 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $30/person

PD day courses Junior Gourmets (ages 8–12)

Do you love to cook? Learn safe and proper ways to prepare nutritious meals and snacks while creating fabulous dishes that will melt in your mouth!

Nov. 27 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. $65/person (includes lunch and a snack; make sure you bring a ‘to go’ container for leftovers)

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Log Cabin Youth Mentorship Program Youth are invited to drop in for one of our regular programmed activities, or just to hang out with friends! Enjoy air hockey, pool, ping pong, multiple crafts and Xbox games!

Fall hours of operation: Tuesday – Friday: 4–8 p.m.

Saturday: 1–8 p.m.

Sunday – Monday: Closed

Weekly programs

After The Bell Tuesday: Cravings

On the first and third Tuesday of every month, come satisfy your culinary cravings at the Lions Log Cabin Concession.

We’ll create dishes that include breakfast, lunch, supper and dessert recipes.

Wednesday:

Lions Log Cabin Challenge and Game of S.K.A.T.E. Ultimate

Youth Mentorship Program Thursdays: Movie Night

Come on down to Spruce Grove Skate Park and join the Lions Log Cabin staff for a weekly game of S.K.A.T.E. Also engage in ping pong challenges, for prizes and practice.

Stop by the cabin and enjoy a movie on our comfy couches.

Relax and watch new releases or old flicks with friends!

Free popcorn and juice for youth viewing the show!

Parkland VillageYouth

Youth in Action

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Friday: Jam Night Youth can bring their own instruments and jam, or use a variety of instruments we have in the cabin to create their own tunes and rhythms! Whether you are a solo artist or a group, beginner or advanced, you’ll have a great time creating your own music. Come share and develop your musical talents!

Saturday: Skateboard Education and Craft Corner

Join us to study and discuss the different types of skateboarding. By analyzing movies, documentaries and photographs, you’ll learn more about different skaters’ styles and tricks, and have the opportunity to share opinions about your favourites. There will also be monthly contests with prizes for the winners. Or you can chill in the cabin and let your creativity run wild, using our many drawing, painting, and craft supplies!

Parkland Village Youth (ages 12–17)

Looking for something to do on Tuesdays? Come check out Parkland Village Youth. Each week you’ll be able to try something new while spending time with your friends.

You will also have the opportunity to plan activities, games and special events.

Weekly activities may include movie nights, trips to the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre, cooking, indoor/outdoor games, attending local youth events and volunteering.

Tuesdays (September to June) 7 p.m.

Parkland Village Community Centre (located adjacent to Parkland Village School)

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH We want you! The City of Spruce Grove is giving youth in the community an opportunity, year round, to volunteer.

As a volunteer you will receive a reference letter for future employment and the hours you contribute could possibly count towards credits for specific classes at school.

Volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new people and gain valuable experience and skills. Get involved in your community and have your voice heard!

Upcoming volunteer opportunities: • Remembrance Day (November) • Christmas in Central Park (November) • Canada Day (July) • Summer in the City – Leaders in Training (July and Aug.) • Other seasonal events/programs To sign up or for more information call 780-962-7618 or email fcss@sprucegrove.org.

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FCSS SUPPORT GROUPS Young Moms

If you are under 25 years of age and are parenting or expecting a baby, this group is for you. We offer a supportive environment in which to share the experiences, joys and challenges of parenting as a young mom. There are educational sessions and many opportunities to socialize. Childcare is available.

Wednesdays Sept. 30 – Dec. 9 3:30–5 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. Free, drop-in For more information call Beverley at 780-962-7634 ext. 160.

Community Kitchen

This is a fun, inexpensive way to cook nutritious meals and an opportunity to learn new recipes and try out new foods. You will take part in two sessions: one for planning and recipe selection, and one for cooking. Meals are divided among the group to take home. This subsidized program supports those with low incomes.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. For more information and dates call Beverley at 780-962-7634 ext. 160.

This community kitchen is made possible through a partnership involving the Thrift Shop and Spruce Grove FCSS.

Mamas of Multiples

Calling all Parkland County twin families! We are a local twin (and triplet) support group that provides support to moms and their families. Having multiples comes with a lot of questions and new experiences and we can walk through it together! For more information look up our Facebook group (Mamas of Multiples Spruce Grove & Area) or call Michelle at 780-953-1111.

Living with Loss to Suicide

This self-help group supports participants through listening, sharing and caring. It offers a shared experience, strength and hope.

Last Monday of each month 7 p.m.

Spruce Grove FCSS, 105-505 Queen St. For more information or to register, call 780-342-1340.

Caring Friends Bereavement Support Group

Caring Friends is a confidential and informal (drop-in) bereavement support group led by trained bereavement counsellors. Participants have an opportunity to share their feelings and understand the emotions associated with grief in a safe, supportive environment.

First Thursday of the month 7–9 p.m.

Parkland Building boardroom, 4912-51 Ave., Stony Plain Free, drop-in

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Have you ever wondered how to find a community service when you or someone you know needs help? When you want to reach out and help by volunteering or donating, where do you turn?

Finding answers and information is as easy as dialing 2-1-1. This number, which is a joint community initiative of Spruce Grove FCSS, Stony Plain FCSS, Parkland County, The Support Network and The United Way, will connect you to human services, community programs and volunteer information, including:

• Basic needs (food, clothing, shelter or financial assistance) • Death and bereavement

• Emergency and crisis lines (violence, sexuality, substance abuse, etc.)

• Emotional and mental health information • Employment and job skills • Healthcare

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• Parenting and childcare (education, playschools, counselling) • Recreation and social programs • Services for seniors

Parkland Caregivers Group (Alberta Caregiving Association)

The Caregiver Networks offer caregivers a chance to take a short break from their caregiving role, grab a coffee or some breakfast, and connect with others who can relate to what they are going through. They provide an opportunity to share caregiving experiences and resources in a safe and understanding environment.

Every second Saturday 8–9:30a.m.

R & B Restaurant, Stony Plain Free, drop-in For more information call Alberta Caregivers Association at 780-453-5088.

• Social programs • Special needs

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• Transportation

• Volunteer opportunities

The 2-1-1 service is available in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain and most areas of Parkland County.

All calls are free and confidential and TTY access is available for the hard of hearing. Callers outside of the service area can connect to the 2-1-1 service by dialing 780-482-INFO (4636). For more information, visit www.sprucegrove.org/211.

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Spruce Grove Public Library Hours of operation Monday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Tuesday–Thursday: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

Friday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Sunday: Noon–6 p.m.

Closed all statutory holidays

Unless otherwise specified, all programs begin the week of Sept. 6, 2015.

Rhyme Time – Toddler

Story Time

Rhyme Time – Baby

Kids Pokémon Club

Children (12–36 months) and their grown-ups participate in engaging rhymes, songs and stories.

Mondays (begins Sept. 14; no program Oct. 12) 10–10:30 a.m.

Program Room Free Contact: gayle@sgpl.ca Babies (0–12 months) and their grown-ups participate in entertaining finger-plays, activities and stories.

Tuesdays 10–10:30 a.m.

Program Room Free Contact: gayle@sgpl.ca

Children (2–5years) and their grown-ups participate together at this interactive drop-in story time.

Wednesdays 10–10:30 a.m.

Cozy Corner Free Contact: gayle@sgpl.ca Kids (7–10 years) who love all things Pokémon can get together every other week and trade cards, show off their collections and help their parents learn more about Pokémon!

Thursdays (every other week) 6–7:30 p.m.

Meeting Room B Free

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35-Fifth Ave. 780-962-4423 library@sgpl.ca www.sgpl.ca

Kids Writing Club

Kids (7–10 years) who love to play with words and create group projects are welcome to drop in when they can or attend every week.

Wednesdays 4–4:30 p.m.

Meeting Room A Free

Youth Writing Club

Youth (11–17 years) will learn more about the art and craft of writing while expressing their own ideas in a supportive place; participants are welcome to drop in when they can or attend every week.

Wednesdays 4:30–5:30 p.m.

Meeting Room A Free

Makerspaces

Families, individuals and groups are invited to join in the fun during our weekly Makerspace activities—we provide the space, technology and materials and you make whatever you are inspired to create!

Tuesdays (begins Sept. 15) 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Front of library Free

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Allied Arts Council How to register

In person: Melcor Cultural Centre, 35–Fifth Ave., Spruce Grove By mail: Allied Arts Council PO Box 3511 Spruce Grove, Alta.

T7X 3A8 By phone: 780-962-0664 By email: alliedac@telus.net Please visit our website for more information at www.alliedartscouncil.com.

Hours of operation Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Closed Sundays, Mondays and all statutory holidays

ADULT CLASSES Beginner Drawing with Graphite Pencil Gain confidence in your ability to sketch.

Experiment with various pencil techniques and learn the fundamentals of shading, blending and creating depth through layering.

Fridays – Sept. 4, 11, 18 and 25 1–4 p.m. $85/person Instructor: Susan Casault

Beginner Coloured Pencil Learn different mark-making and blending techniques and how to layer colours to create depth and richness in your drawings.

Fridays – Oct. 9, 16, 23 and 30 1–4 p.m. $85/person Instructor: Susan Casault

Intermediate Coloured Pencil This session is for students who have completed an introductory course or have some experience with the medium of coloured pencil.

Fridays – Nov. 6, 13, 20 and 27 1–4 p.m. $85/person Instructor: Susan Casault

Acrylic Basics and More

Acrylic Palette Knife

Basics for beginners and further instruction and projects for those who have already taken acrylic painting classes.

Learn palette knife techniques using acrylics, including how to mix colour, value and harmony.

Thursdays – Oct. 8, 15, 22 and 29;

Nov. 5, 12, 19 and 26 6:45–9:45 p.m. $190/person Instructor: Cindy Barratt

Visit our website for dates and times. $130/person Instructor: Dianna Hanna Supply list available at the gallery.

Oily Art – Still Life Learn how to use a variety of brushes, tools and oil paint mediums to create on canvas, paper or board.

Thursdays – Sept. 17 and 24; Oct. 1, 8, 22 and 29 1–4 p.m. $190/person Instructor: Gail Seemann

Watercolour Basics and More Learn about colour theory and mixing, brush strokes and watercolour techniques, and various studies and exercises to get you comfortable handling the watercolour medium.

Thursdays – Oct. 8, 15, 22 and 29;

Nov. 5, 12, 19 and 26 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. $190/person Instructor: Cindy Barratt

Introduction to Zentangle® and Beyond Zentangles® are miniature pieces of unplanned, abstract art created in a very structured method from an ensemble of repetitive patterns.

Thursdays– Nov. 5, 12 and 19 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. $75/person Instructor: Val Enders Supplies available at the gallery for $15.

Watercolour with Willie Wong Learn to paint with watercolour with a focus on three subjects: rusty, old car; garden tools; and geraniums.

Wednesdays – Sept. 9, 16, 23 and 30 7–10 p.m. $130/person Instructor: Willie Wong

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35-Fifth Ave. 780-962-0664 alliedac@telus.net www.alliedartscouncil.com

ADULT WORKSHOPS Watercolour Pencil Workshop Experiment with line, texture and washes to create at least one small painting.

Saturday, Nov. 7 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $60/person Instructor: Susan Casault

Acrylic Prairie Skies, Barns and Bales Workshop Learn to paint the sky, barns and bales as you learn the basics of acrylic painting.

Sunday, Nov. 8 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $60/person Instructor: Cindy Barratt

Watercolour Birch Trees Workshop Capture birch trees as you learn the basics of watercolour painting.

Sunday, Nov. 22 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $60/person Instructor: Cindy Barratt

Floral Extravaganza in Oil Beginners or intermediates will learn to create a variety of flowers in one painting.

Saturday, Nov. 21 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $60/person Instructor: Gail Seemann

Camera Basics This workshop is designed to help you understand and comprehend the world of digital photography.

Visit our website for dates and times. $75/person Instructor: Roy McLaughlin

Acrylic Seascape Workshop Learn the basic beginner techniques of acrylic painting and complete a seascape painting.

Sunday, Sept. 20, 12–6 p.m. $60/person Instructor: Tina Bourassa

Acrylic Wildlife Workshop Learn different techniques that will bring you into the world of wildlife painting.

Sunday, Oct. 18, 12–6 p.m. $60/person Instructor: Tina Bourassa

Acrylic Landscape Workshop Learn beginner techniques of acrylic painting and complete a landscape painting.

Sunday, Nov. 29, 12–6 p.m. $60/person Instructor: Tina Bourassa

Acrylic Portraits Workshop Investigate the structure of the human head through drawings and painted studies and progress to finished paintings.

Sunday, Dec. 13, 12–6 p.m. $60/person Instructor: Tina Bourassa

CHILDREN’S CLASSES Little Artists

CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS Teen Acrylic Animal Workshop (13+) Learn basic painting techniques in Acrylic. Perfect for teens and young adults. Parents welcome as well.

Sunday, Oct. 4 1 – 5 p.m. $35/person Instructor: Tina Bourassa

Handmade Paper (ages 6–12) Make one-of-a-kind handmade paper from scratch using materials from nature.

All supplies will be provided except towels. Bring an apron and a snack.

Sunday, Oct. 11 9 a.m.–12 p.m. $35/person Instructor: Charis Ng

Teen Acrylic Landscape Workshop (13+)

Children learn techniques and applications of strokes while developing their own style. References will be drawn from works of P. Cezzane (still life), H. Matisse (colourful landscapes), W. Kandinsky (music in abstraction) followed by J. Pollock (abstract drip painting), G. O’Keefe (zoomed in florals) and more.

Learn basic painting techniques in Acrylic. Perfect for teens and young adults. Parents welcome as well.

Instructor: Charis Ng

Printmaking On Paper and Fabric (ages 6-12)

Ages 3-5 Wednesday afternoons Sept. 2 – Oct. 28 (no classes Sept. 16, Oct. 7) Nov. 4 – Dec. 23 (no class Nov. 11) $40/person Ages 6-12 Monday evenings Sept. 14 – Nov. 2 (no class Oct. 12) Nov. 9 – Dec. 21 4:30 – 6 p.m. $65/person

Art Attack (ages 6–12) Students will learn to paint in an impressionistic style like Monet and Degas. Abstract sculpture and soft pastels will also be discovered.

Wednesdays: Sept. 2 – Oct. 14* or

Oct. 21 – Dec. 2* 3:45–4:45 p.m. or 5–6 p.m. $60/person Instructor: Tina Bourassa *No classes Sept. 16 or Nov. 11

Sunday, Nov. 1 1 – 5 p.m. $35/person Instructor: Tina Bourassa

Children will bring home a printed t-shirt and other fabrics and paper with their own design. Bring an apron and a snack.

Sunday, Nov. 15 9 a.m.–12 p.m. $35/person Instructor: Charis Ng

Deck the Halls with Holiday Cheers (ages 6-12) Children will make a hanging Christmas tree and 3D ornaments with fabric and wood.

Sunday, Dec. 6 1–4 p.m. $35/person Instructor: Charis Ng

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2014 Annual Report

21

20 ANNUAL 14 REPORT

FLIP ME OVER FOR OUR CITYPULSE FALL EDITION! 2014 Annual Report

1

2

City of Spruce Grove

Connected to you As a City, we are committed to staying connected with you – our residents – and listening to your feedback.

You are at the heart of everything we do, so please get, and stay, in touch.

Here are some ways you can connect with us: City Hall: 315 Jespersen Ave.

Phone: 780-962-2611 (from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.)

Web: www.sprucegrove.org

Email: info@sprucegrove.org

CityPulse: www.sprucegrove.org/citypulse Twitter: @CitySpruceGrove

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sprucegrove

Table of contents 4

Mayor’s message

14 It’s playtime!

5

City Manager’s message

15 Major corridor gets facelift

6

Building an exceptional city

15 Music for munchkins

8

2014 snapshot

16 Small cart = big impact

10 Record breaking growth 12 City breaks ground on new

Sports and Rec Facility

16 Waste by numbers 16 New hours and fees

implemented at Eco Centre

13 Spruce Grove home to new

integrated RCMP facility

17 Spruce Grove Fire Services

calls in 2014

13 Preparing for the unexpected

18 2014 Financial Summary 2014 Annual Report

3

Mayor’s message STUART HOUSTON

Spruce Grove is going through a significant transformation. No longer just a bedroom community of our capital city neighbour to the east, we have established ourselves as a thriving city and developed a reputation as an excellent place to live, work and play. We are welcoming new investment to Spruce Grove and are actively pursuing opportunities and ideas that will have a positive impact on shaping the city’s future.

You can see proof of this transformation in our annual report for 2014, which highlights the progress we are making as a city and how we are adapting to best meet the needs of a growing community.

We also recognize that as we change, it’s imperative that we anticipate and plan for what our residents will need – both short- and long-term. In April 2014, City Council approved a new strategic plan: Building an Exceptional City – a Strategic Roadmap to 2035.

This plan clearly identifies our mission and vision and, at its core, is a roadmap for us to follow as we work to implement a wide range of goals over the next 20 years.

4

City of Spruce Grove

It was exciting to develop a strategic plan for Spruce Grove as we gazed into our figurative crystal ball and envisioned how the city will look two decades from now. This is the first time the City has adopted such a long-term blueprint for the community, but we strongly feel that in order to be successful and proactively plan for our future, we need to be looking that far down the road.

We have the opportunity to review and revise the plan every year, with a further review and update every four years to ensure we are staying on course to meeting our goals, but ultimately we are planning for the Spruce Grove we want to see in 20 years – a place where people choose to live, choose to raise a family and choose to grow a business. That’s our vision and we are committed to making it happen.

I am proud of what we accomplished in 2014 and I have confidence we can achieve the goals we have identified in the strategic plan. City Council has a strong, unified idea of how Spruce Grove will look in the future and with the expertise of our City administration, we are already on the path to realizing great success.

City Manager’s message On behalf of the City of Spruce Grove, I am pleased to present our 2014 annual report, which highlights many of our accomplishments and our financial position from last year.

With a 5.63 per cent growth rate in 2014, we know Spruce Grove is a vibrant and thriving community. But with that growth comes the challenge of managing the City’s resources in a way that maintains quality service levels at an affordable rate. It’s a balancing act as we strive to meet the needs of our existing residents, while also attracting new opportunities to the area.

One of our top priorities is providing quality amenities and services to residents. We invested in our infrastructure with a brand new Brookwood rink and new lighting at the popular Cpl. Jim Galloway Memorial Off Leash Area. We made improvements to several of our parks and playgrounds and started construction on the City’s new Sports and Recreation Facility, which will be a hub for non-profit and community groups, as well as home to the Aerials Gymnastics.

We formalized a partnership with the Town of Stony Plain for a new RCMP facility that will serve area residents for many years and saw Horizon Stage expand its programming options to encourage and entice more people to check out live theatre in the

ROBERT COTTERILL

community. We also made changes to our waste collection program by introducing the option of smaller black waste carts and year-round organics collection to help increase waste diversion levels.

I would invite you to take a look at the highlights from 2014 that are captured in this annual report.

Another major accomplishment was the development of a new strategic plan for Spruce Grove, which was an opportunity for us to reflect on where we’ve been, where we are and where we want to go as a community.

The end result, Building an Exceptional City – a Strategic Roadmap to 2035, is a visionary document that outlines where we want to take the city over the next 20 years. It identifies our priorities as a city – to be a safe, dynamic urban centre with a leading leisure, recreation and sports community that is also a diversified business centre – and I’m pleased to say we are already taking steps to achieve those goals.

So as we look back at what we’ve accomplished, we can also look ahead with a sense of purpose and confidence in our actions as we continually strive to make Spruce Grove a strong, sustainable and welcoming regional centre.

2014 Annual Report

5

lan Strategic P 2015-2035 al City Exception Building an to 2035 Roadmap A Strategic

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Building an exceptional city Council approves new 20-year vision for Spruce Grove Imagine Spruce Grove in 20 years. What do you see?

That was the question posed to City of Spruce Grove council and staff last year as they worked to develop and approve a new strategic plan that will guide the community through growth and change over the next 20 years.

Council approved the strategic plan, Building an Exceptional City – a Strategic Roadmap to 2035, in April 2014.

The plan captures the City’s mission and vision and provides a roadmap of goals, strategies and outcomes for the city to implement and achieve over the next 20 years.

Specific attention was given to the balance between continuing to provide residents and visitors with a variety of quality services and capitalizing on new opportunities that can positively impact Spruce Grove’s potential.

The strategic plan will be reviewed on an annual basis, with a further review and update every four years, to ensure it reflects any necessary changes or adjustments that may be required to achieve the City’s vision. It can be viewed online at www.sprucegrove.org/strategicplan.

6

City of Spruce Grove

Our Vision

Our vision for our community’s future in 2035 is that Spruce Grove is the best place to live, to raise an active, healthy family and to grow a strong, successful business.

Our Mission

Our mission is to build an exceptional city through innovation, leadership and committed public service.

Our Core Values

These values guide our commitment to moving forward as an organization to realize our vision for the future of Spruce Grove: • Leadership

• Openness and responsiveness • Service excellence • Accountability

• Honesty and integrity

Our Underlying Principles

• Sustainability through sound economic development • Leadership in affordable quality service delivery

• Affordability through prudent fiscal management

• Leadership in collaboration to ensure best value for all • Building a community for all

Our Vision In Action

In Spruce Grove in 2035, we want to be:

Where people choose to live – a dynamic city with an exceptional quality of life GOALS:

• Citizens feel safe within their communities.

•

High quality leisure, recreational, commercial and social infrastructure and amenities that meet the interests and needs the greater community are in place and conveniently accessible.

• Citizens consistently express high levels of satisfaction with municipal services.

• Spruce Grove is an easy and convenient city to get around in, with a high ease of mobility for transportation, walkability and connectivity.

Where people choose to raise a family – a leading leisure, recreation and sports community GOALS:

• Spruce Grove is known as an event hosting destination.

•

There are a number of active and engaged community groups involved in the development, promotion and implementation of leisure, recreational and sporting infrastructure, amenities and activities.

• Spruce Grove has a well-balanced arts and culture environment that reflects the interests and needs of the community.

• Spruce Grove has a healthy population that is actively engaged in leisure and recreation.

Where people choose to grow a business – a strong, diversified regional business centre GOALS: •

Spruce Grove has a business environment that attracts new businesses to the city, encourages and supports new business startups, and helps ensure existing businesses are competitive, successful and profitable.

• The City maintains a constant inventory of available land, both developed and developable, to ensure businesses can find properties that meet their needs.

• The City has well developed relationships with key stakeholders in the City and the region who impact the economic success of the City’s business sector.

• Spruce Grove has a robust, growing economic base that generates balanced revenues to support the City’s high standards for services and programs.

2014 Annual Report

7

1,392 TOTAL BUILDING PERMIT VALUE: $244 MILLION

2014 SNAPSHOT

Population

Male: 14,125 Female: 14,142

Acres of grass mowed:

733

COLLECTED AT THE ECO CENTRE:

619 14,350 116,000 8

City of Spruce Grove

Vehicle batteries Kilograms of organic household hazardous wastes Litres of paint

Incidents responded to by Spruce Grove Fire Services within Spruce Grove

TOTAL BUILDING PERMITS:

29,526

2,036

Block parties:

Website visits:

411,209 Unique website visitors:

1,064

208,278

BUSINESSES

Website visits from a mobile device or tablet:

operating in Spruce Grove

44.7%

837

Housing starts

3,399

Twitter followers

3,430

GARAGE SALES PROMOTED THROUGH CITY’S GARAGE SALE ADVERTISING PROGRAM:

Facebook fans

477

126

: 25

220 Park benches

FLOWER PLANTERS

6,187

219

Tickets sold for Horizon Stage performances

Small black waste carts introduced

10

Permitted new industrial buildings 2014 Annual Report

9

Record breaking growth in 2014!

Spruce Grove was buzzing with development last year, achieving recording breaking growth in multiple sectors.

Last year the City issued 1,392 building permits, which is a 25 per cent increase over permit activity in 2013, and a 51 per cent increase over 2012. In fact, 2014 was the busiest year in the City’s history in terms of building permit issuance, and is the second year in a row that permitting activities have set a new record.

Residential

Commercial

On the residential side, the City had a total building permit value of $187 million, which is the highest residential permit value to date. Housing types remained balanced, while the total number of new dwelling units approved increased 24 per cent, setting a new record and making Spruce Grove one of the fastest growing municipalities in the Capital region.

Last year’s commercial building permit and improvements number held steady at $19 million with five new buildings, which is close to the City’s five-year average of approximately $20 million per year. This was in large part due to the new Tri Leisure Village development, located south of theTransAlta Tri Leisure Centre on Jennifer Heil Way, which saw the opening of the 130-room Holiday Inn Express & Suites as well as a new Boston Pizza in 2014.

The city’s population grew by 5.6 per cent in 2014, coming in at 29,526. This continuing population growth was accompanied by development in residential, commercial and industrial sectors.

The highest percentage of building permits for new units occurred in McLaughlin, which included an apartment building with over 100 units as well as mixed low to medium residential development.

Following closely behind were the popular neighbourhoods of Greenbury, Harvest Ridge and Spruce Ridge.

10

City of Spruce Grove

The total value of these building permits was almost $244 million, which far surpassed the previous record of $194 million in 2013 by almost $50 million.

Industrial

Last year the City permitted 10 new industrial buildings, which is the most in the City’s history as the annual average is three buildings per year. This resulted in a record amount of industrial permit and improvement values, totalling $21.7 million – more than double the amount achieved in 2013.

Development permits

Residential development permits by type

The majority of residential development permits issued last year were for single detached dwellings and improvements to existing residences, which is typical of Spruce Grove.

New institutional

Pres cott

4.3% 15.3% 9.2% 0.1%

.1 11 %

5.7

%

Spruce Grove had 837 housing starts last year, making the city the second fasted growing municipality in the Edmonton region, behind only the City of Edmonton. The number of housing starts in Spruce Grove is partially influenced by its housing diversity with 332 single detached homes, 214 semi-detached homes, 119 row houses and 172 apartments.

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The majority of non-residential development permits approved in 2014 were for commercial and industrial improvements, which is largely due to tenant improvements and approvals required for new uses.

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231

Non-residential development permits by type

Non-residential

4.9%

SEMI-DETACHED

GARAGES

56

SINGLE-DETACHED

236

Residential

Hawthorne

353

MULTI-FAMILY

Overall development permit activity in Spruce Grove was strong in 2014 with a 21 per cent increase over 2013.

The largest volume of development permits was issued in the warmer summer months, which is typical of development activity for the region.

2014 Annual Report

11

City breaks ground on new Sports and Rec Facility Aerials Gymnastics will be primary tenants It was a small pile of dirt that represented a mountain of work.

Last year Spruce Grove City Council turned the sod to officially mark the start of construction of the City’s new Sports and Recreation Facility.

Planning and negotiations for the facility, which will also provide a home for the Aerials Gymnastics, has been ongoing for years, making the sod turning ceremony an exciting and celebratory step for everyone involved.

The facility, which is being constructed adjacent to Fuhr Sports Park and south of the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre, will serve a variety of purposes including: • Space for the Aerials Gymnastics

• A foyer and reception area, including an art display and sports museum

• Multi-purpose flex space suitable for uses such as combative sports programs, yoga or pilates

• Shared community and non-profit group office and program space • Community storage space

• Office space for City Recreation Services staff

In addition to meeting immediate needs, the facility has expansion space for future growth. It will also help create a sports and recreation hub in Spruce Grove with its proximity to Fuhr Sports Park and the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre, and complement the many great services and programs currently being offered in the area.

Construction of the facility was made possible through the support of the Government of Alberta’s Building Alberta Plan and the Government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

No tax support was required to build the facility, which will be wholly owned and operated by the City, with the Aerials leasing the gymnastics space and all other community groups having the opportunity to utilize the facility’s space and resources.

This past September, City of Spruce Grove Mayor Stuart Houston and members of City Council were joined by Lindsay Kiezik, Aerials Gymnastic Club Executive Director, Doug Horner, former MLA for Spruce Grove-St. Albert, and City Manager Robert Cotterill, to turn the sod and officially mark the start of construction of Spruce Grove’s new Sports and Recreation Facility. Also in attendance to mark the occasion were members of City staff, developers and contractors.

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City of Spruce Grove

Spruce Grove home to new integrated RCMP facility Town of Stony Plain partners with City to build shared space Regional co-operation is the foundation for the construction of a new RCMP facility in Spruce Grove.

RCMP officers from both municipalities will operate out of the facility, which will be built on a parcel of land south of Highway 16A along Campsite Road. Design work will begin in 2015 with construction starting in 2016 and an anticipated opening in late 2017 or early 2018.

Highway 16A

Future location of City of Spruce Grove & Town of Stony Plain

RCMP Facility

The concept of the building will see it house municipal RCMP personnel as well as provincial rural and traffic units.

Rotary Centennial Park

Campsite Rd.

The co-location of policing services will lead to more efficient service to all residents in the region. Designing and building one facility will also result in construction and maintenance cost savings.

N

Jennifer Heil Way

In November 2014, Spruce Grove City Council and Stony Plain Town Council unanimously agreed to co-locate a new integrated RCMP facility in Spruce Grove.

Currently, the RCMP in Spruce Grove are co-located with the City’s Fire Services department on King Street. Once the RCMP have moved into the new facility, the space will be dedicated to Spruce Grove Fire and Enforcement Services.

Preparing for the unexpected Additional automated external defibrillator added to City facilities A new automated external defibrillator (AED) was installed at the Agrena last year, thanks to a grant from the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

The grant not only provided for a new AED, but allowed one of the existing two devices at the Agrena to be passed on to the Lions Log Cabin.

This brings the total number of AEDs in City-managed facilities to seven, with devices located at City Hall, Horizon Stage, Fuhr Sports Park, the Public Works building, the Lions Log Cabin and the Agrena.

When cardiac arrests occur, an AED can be used to interupt an irregular heartbeat and work to return it to a healthy rhythm. Adding the use of an AED to the performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, commonly referred to as CPR, significantly improves the rate of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest.

Funding for the new AED was granted by the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s National AED Program, which is a four-year partnership between the Foundation and the Federal Government to install devices in community buildings across Canada.

2014 Annual Report

13

It’s playtime!

Spruce Grove is home to dozens of playgrounds, parks and other recreational areas and facilities. Maintenance is done on a regular basis throughout the year, but the City also has a lifecycle program to identify those amenities that may require a significant upgrade or complete replacement. Additionally, new amenities are constructed (in many cases by developers) in new growth areas. These facilities are then handed over to the City for ongoing care and maintenance. This allows the City to proactively manage these resources, as well as plan for future growth and the needs of its residents.

Projects completed in 2014 include: Brookwood rink Located on King Street near Brookwood School, the existing rink was demolished and a new rink was constructed. The new outdoor facility is open year-round and is covered in ice when temperatures are below zero. In warmer months, the asphalt surface can be used for activities such as roller blading or street hockey.

Deer Park playground

donated to the Emmanuel Foundation, which provides play structures to communities in developing countries.

The new equipment features bright colours of red, blue, yellow and green and includes opportunities for swinging, sliding, climbing, hanging and imaginative play.

Jesperdale playground

Greystone playground

Constructed by Melcor Developments, a new playground was constructed in the Jesperdale neighbourhood.

Features include swinging discs, climbing challenges for younger and older children, and a fire truck that kids can sit in and “drive”.

The Greystone playground, in the neighbourhood of Grove Meadows, was completely replaced last summer.

The existing play equipment was

New blue and green equipment was installed at the Landsdowne playground in the Lakewood neighbourhood. The new play

The “senior” play structure at the playground, located on Deer Park Drive, was replaced and now features a variety of nets and walls for climbing, different kinds of monkey bars, a colourful triple-slide and new swings.

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City of Spruce Grove

Landsdowne playground

structure includes slides, a teeter-totter and many climbing opportunities.

Cpl. Jim Galloway Memorial Off Leash Area

A popular spot for dog owners, four new lighting poles were installed at the Cpl. Jim Galloway Memorial Off Leash Area to provide better visibility throughout the park after dark.

Located at 51 Century Close, other features of this off leash area include a double-gated entry area to unleash and leash dogs when entering and exiting the park, more than 8.6 acres of fenced off-leash park area and almost one kilometre (900 metres) of gravel walking trails.

Major corridor gets facelift Retaining walls and planting beds added to median

One of Spruce Grove’s major corridors was spiffed up last year thanks to a $2.5 million upgrade that included road work and significant cosmetic changes.

Motorists travelling through the city on Highway 16A are now greeted with medians that have been dressed up with a combination of retaining walls and raised planting beds containing trees, shrubs and perennials.

The new design also incorporated a drainage system, soil enhancements that help prevent the damaging effects of salt and sand, and plant material that is salt and drought tolerant. Vegetation planted in the area includes ash trees, aspen, potentilla, spirea, snowberry, juniper, daylilies and tall reed grasses.

The median design, which enhances the city’s image as a modern, urban centre, also allows for future enhancements, such as public art.

The section of highway between Century Road and Westgrove Drive received an asphalt overlay and work was done to improve drainage along the road. The signal poles at Golden Spike Road were also replaced.

Music for munchkins Horizon Stage introduces shows for ages 6 and under

Adhering to the belief that theatre is something for people of all ages, Horizon Stage introduced a new programming option in 2014.

The new Munchkin Matinee performance was designed for the very young (ages six and under) with a format that works with the audience members’ attention span and energy levels.

“We wanted to create an opportunity for people to come enjoy a live performance with their preschoolers, toddlers and babies without worrying about disrupting the show or other guests,” explains Theatre Manager Brandi Wurtz. “At a Munchkin Matinee, no one will mind if a baby is fussing or a toddler is bouncing around!”

In fact, the shows are designed to be interactive and children are encouraged to dance and sing along with the performer(s). They are also shorter in length to accommodate the attention span of the audience members.

Because the performance was so well received, Horizon Stage is offering another one in its 2015/2016 season on Monday, Jan. 25, 2016. There is a weekday morning or afternoon option and tickets are just $6 for children or seniors and $12 for adults.

Group rates are also available for daycares, preschools, and kindergarten classes.

“We were really pleased to see the interest in the Munchkin Matinee option for the past two seasons,” says Wurtz, “and we are excited to be bringing it back again.”

Satisfy your curiosity

Theatre offers new packages with range of options Overwhelmed at the entertainment options that are available? Horizon Stage is here to help.

Last year the theatre introduced new three-show Curiosity Packages, which are aimed at helping patrons explore a new genre or artist.

All Curiosity Packages include very different shows, so people can expect to hear a mix of styles and music types.

In 2014, the theatre sold 15 Curiosity Packages and they are available again for the 2015/2016 season.

2014 Annual Report

15

Small cart = big impact

City rolls out smaller black waste carts and year-round organics collection In October 2014, as part of ongoing waste reduction initiatives, the City started offering residents the option of downsizing to a smaller 120-litre black waste cart.

The small cart is half the size of the regular sized cart, which encourages the use of blue bag recycling, the green organics cart and the Eco Centre to divert eligible waste from landfills.

Between the launch of the program in October and the end of the year, 219 households had made the change to a smaller black cart, which also lowered their monthly waste collection fee. There was also no charge to switch from a regular sized cart to a smaller cart.

As an added incentive, residents who made the switch received a free kitchen catcher. This container can be stored in the home to collect food and other waste items that can go into the green organics cart.

In addition to offering residents the option of a smaller black waste cart, the City also launched year-round organics collection in December.

Previously, organics were collected weekly from April to November with no collection between December and March. Now there is monthly pickup from December through March with weekly collection during the rest of the year.

Waste by numbers

New hours and fees implemented at Eco Centre

Waste diversion rates were up slightly in 2014 at 35.2 per cent, up from 34.8 per cent in 2013. Thanks for doing your part to improve the City’s waste diversion rates!

To improve the accessibility and efficiency of the City’s Eco Centre, several changes were made last year to optimize use of the facility.

2014 (tonnes) Organics

Recycling*

Waste to landfill

2,169

1,160

6,364

267

455

1093

2,436

1,614

7,457

2,010

1,016

6,148

256

632

972

2,266

1,625

7,127

Curbside Eco Centre Total

2013 (tonnes) Curbside Eco Centre Total

*Recycling includes blue bag, cardboard and electronic waste

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City of Spruce Grove

Specifically, changes were made to the allowable quantity and disposal fee of some accepted items. While many items, including blue bag recyclables, cardboard and organic waste still have no drop off fee, the disposal fees for other items increased or decreased.

For example, the cost to unload wood or construction materials has decreased; however, the cost to drop off garbage has increased with a maximum of four bags per visit.

Adjustments were also made to the centre’s hours of operation. The centre, which is located at 50 Diamond Ave., is now open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Spruce Grove Fire Services calls in 2014 Spruce Grove Fire Services responded to 4,349 incidents in 2014 – a 23.7 per cent increase over 2013. Of those incidents, 2,036 incidents were within Spruce Grove, which is a 16 per cent increase from 2013.

56

25

Fires causing dollar loss (vehicle, structure, etc.)

Garbage or grass fires

3,852 Medical calls

177

65

False alarms

Public hazard calls (police assistance, fuel spills, etc.)

174

Motor vehicle collisions

2014 Annual Report

17

2014 Financial Summary This financial summary is intended to assist with understanding the management of the City of Spruce Grove’s resources. It provides an overview and highlights of the 2014 financial statements, including the operations of the municipality, the Spruce Grove Public Library and a share of the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre.

A full version of the City’s 2014 Consolidated Financial Statements is available on the on the City’s website at www.sprucegrove.org.

How was the money spent?

The City of Spruce Grove collects municipal property taxes from all property owners within city limits. These tax dollars, along with grants and user fees, fund the City’s projects and services.

The 2014 financial statements include $68.9 million in expenses, as outlined in the chart below.

2014 EXPENSES ($ MILLIONS) Parks, roads and land development, 21.3 Staff and administration, 9.0 Programs, events and recreation, 11.2 Emergency and enforcement services, 11.5 Utilities, 12.4 Facilities and equipment, 3.5

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City of Spruce Grove

City revenue sources The City of Spruce Grove’s revenue comes from a variety of sources: • Property taxes: Paid by Spruce Grove residents and businesses to help cover the costs of the municipal services they use.

• Sales and user fees: Includes utility charges, fines, permits and facility rentals.

• Government transfers: Funds the City receives from the provincial and federal governments, as well as neighbouring municipalities.

• Developers: Includes contributed tangible capital assets and contributions. Contributed tangible capital assets are items like roads and sewers that are constructed by developers and then handed over to the City to own and manage. Contributions are funds developers pay directly to the City.

• Levies: Collected on behalf of the Province of Alberta for education and on behalf of the Meridian Foundation for local seniors housing. The City does not set or control these levies and passes this revenue directly to both the Province and the Meridian Foundation.

2014 REVENUE ($ MILLIONS) Sales and user fees, 34.6 Government transfers – operating, 2.4 Developer contributions, 2.3 Contributed capital assets, 19.4 Gain on sale of capital assets, 2.3 Interest, 0.3 Local improvements, 1.7 Property taxes, 28.6 Government transfers – capital, 18.3 2014 Annual Report

19

Financial summary

Financial position

The annual consolidated financial statements provide important information about the financial position and activities of the City of Spruce Grove. Administration is responsible for the quality of the financial statements.

The City’s auditors have expressed their opinion that the financial statements are fairly stated.

The financial position of the City improved for the sixth consecutive year. At the end of 2014, financial assets of $5.3 million were available to finance future projects as set out in the approved corporate plan.

The 2014 Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in a prescribed format, using standard accounting terms and applying detailed accounting rules. The following summary is a condensed version of the City’s financial statements.

Surplus funds have accumulated over the history of the City to $398 million. Virtually all surplus funds ($379 million) have been used to build or buy roads, utilities, buildings and other capital assets used to deliver municipal services.

Financial position ($ millions)

2014

2013 *

Financial assets

60

60

Financial liabilities

55

55

Net financial assets

5

5

Non-financial assets

393

352

Accumulated surplus

398

357

* as restated

Financial activities The City’s financial activities include revenue, operating expenses and capital projects.

The result of 2014 operations is a surplus of $1 million, and $40 million was used in the acquisition of capital assets. The final result saw $5 million of net financial assets set aside for planned future capital projects.

The budget tries to predict actual results as accurately as possible and most of the operations and projects in 2014 were very close to budget.

Budget

2014

2013*

Revenue - operations

69

70

67

Expenses

73

69

67

Annual surplus from operations

(4)

1

0

Revenue – capital

32

40

27

Annual surplus

28

41

27

Capital assets

(35)

(52)

(35)

10

11

10

Change

3

0

2

Opening

12

5

3

Closing

15

5

5

Financial activities ($ millions)

Amortization Net financial assets

20

* as restated

City of Spruce Grove

2014 Annual Report

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