RECREATION AND COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT BRANCH Aquatic Services Throughout 2019, there were over 11,000 admissions to Portage Pool. 840 residents participated in swim lessons, and 70 took leadership courses. Portage Pool was recognized by the Canadian Red Cross for the highest sales in 2018 for a population under 5,000. The Pool also received 3 awards from the Alberta and Northwest Territories Branch of the Lifesaving Society for program excellence in lifesaving, swim to survive, and first aid. Portage Pool is working with and providing space for the Red Cross Indigenous Swimming and Water Safety Program, giving Indigenous youth the opportunity to participate in aquatic programs. Approximately 100 participants enjoyed the New Year’s Eve Glow Swim on December 31, 2019.
Glow Swim on New Year’s Eve Photo: Lac La Biche Post
8
Lac La Biche County | 2019 in Review
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS BRING NEW PERKS TO RECREATION PROGRAMMING Despite tough economic times, our community continues to step up and support County recreation facilities and programs through sponsorships and advertising. Whether it’s free skating at the Bold Center or Plamondon Arena, paid facility rentals for the Festival of Trees, or free Child Mind access during select events, many perks would not be offered without sponsors’ support. Data from digital counters shows that Bold Center traffic continues to grow, with 357,000 exposures in 2019 alone—it’s truly the hub of our community. To find out more about sponsorship and advertising packages, contact the Bold Center.
