Red Deer CountyDECEMBER News DECEMBER 2014 2014 PAGE 1

Winter Maintenance & Snow Removal FAQ on Page 20

Agriculture Shines in Ag Services Year-In-Review on Page 10

Facebook.com/ WHAT’S INSIDE reddeercounty

RURAL ADDRESSING… ...... PG 2

RED DEER AIRPORT NEWS… ...... PG 8-9 Follow us on Twitter FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY HALLS… ...... PG 19 @reddeercounty

GALAXY

the right choice LANTERN STREET RED DEER “Proud to be in Red Deer County” 76470L5 Gasoline Alley, Red Deer County • www.reddeertoyota.com 403-343-3736 1-800-662-7166 Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 2

JANUARY 23, 2007 Post To Begin Phase 2 Of Re-Addressing Project

Beginning in the summer of 2015, Canada Post will 1 ‘Blue Sign’ addresses that were installed by Red system will provide a clear, concise address and a be commencing phase two of their re-addressing Deer County. While Red Deer County is a willing focal point for identification. program for certain postal codes within Red Deer participant in the program, it is important to note that It is important to remember that Canada Post will County. If you reside in an affected area, you will all questions around mailing addresses should host both the current existing address as well as the be receiving a letter from Canada Post with specific be sent to Canada Post at 1.403.974.2000. new municipal address for a minimum period of 1 information on the changes to your mail. By moving toward this style of addressing system, year. This will provide businesses and homeowners The overall concept of the program is to change residents will be able to leverage improved courier with the opportunity to change letterhead, utilities all mailing addresses to coordinate with the 9-1- and mail delivery services. This new addressing forms and other necessary addressing information.

Season`s Greetings From Red Deer County Council would Red Deer like to wish everyone a joyful County Council and healthy Christmas Season and a prosperous New Year. Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 3

We Welcome “What’s Happening”In Red Deer County? Your Christmas Cabaret - You are an item for the Spruceview Foodbank, a Above Basics at 7:00 PM or Basic Social Feedback! invited to a wonderful community event, potluck dish and a Santa gift for your child. Dance at 8:00 PM at the Bower-Kin You can contact us with questions or comments at countynews@ where there will be fine food and a live Red Deer County Council, MPC, and Public Community Center in Red Deer. For more rdcounty.ca band. Invite your friends or use it as your Hearings - December 9, December 23, information and to pre-register please call Red Deer County News is a free business Christmas party. December 6, January 6, and January 20. MPC commences Doug or Doris at 403.728.3333 or email monthly publication available to all Cocktails at 6:00 PM, Wonderful supper at 9:30 AM, followed by Council, at the [email protected]. County residents. at 7:00 PM, Special guest singer Roberta County Centre. Public Hearings are held Sponsored by Town and Country Dance Current issues of the County News Fetch at 8:00 PM, Live band at 9:00 PM. at 1:30 PM. For agendas and past meeting Club. are available free of charge at the Contact Sue at 403.391.2573 or Sandy at minutes visit www.rdcounty.ca Scandinavian Folk Dance Lessons - Monday Red Deer County Centre, or can be 403.755.6366 or email at shippelt.sandra@ viewed online at Youth Pheasant Program will start Evenings. Youth: (ages 5 & up) 6:00 PM gmail.com to purchase tickets. On behalf of www.rdcounty.ca another successful year on September to 6:45 PM, Adults: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the board we look forward to celebrating MANAGING EDITOR: 6. Firearms safety, target shooting and Festival Hall, 4214 - 58 St., Red Deer. Singles, with you. Ticket are $45.00 individually or ADAM FERGUSON pheasant hunting for kids every weekend beginners, and experienced dancers all $40.00 per ticket when you buy 8 tickets. Corporate Communications till Dec 15th. Only supply you need is your welcomed. For further information call Coordinator Old Fashioned Potluck Christmas Concert own lunch, everything else is supplied. Get 403.347.5303 or 403.341.4672 or email PRINTING & DISTRIBUTION: - sponsored by the Markerville Community signed up soon, book early, call Doug at [email protected] RED DEER ADVOCATE Society, for families in the Markerville 403.347.7968 or Kevin at 403.346.4641. County Maps Available - at the County ADVERTISING: Community and Area. Come join in some Dance Lessons - Learn to foxtrot, two- Office. $15.00 each for either a rolled (not For all advertising inquiries please Christmas spirit on December 14 at 5:00 PM contact the Red Deer Advocate step, polka, waltz, and much more. Lessons laminated) or a folded. Maps were printed at the Fensala Hall in Markerville. Contact 403.314.4343 start on Tuesday, October 14, 2014. Cost in June 2012. d’Arcy Gamble at 403.728.3340 to be put SUBMISSIONS: is $35 per person for six weeks. A Step Red Deer County welcomes on the program and for more info. Bring reader submissions and reserves the right to approve/disapprove any and all submissions it receives. Send submissions to [email protected] Please note that submitted Council original documents cannot always be returned. Due Date for January submissions is Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014 WHAT’S Corner HAPPENING? We are happy to list upcoming festivals, community fairs, reunions, and other community events! To have your event listed in the ‘What’s Happening’ calendar of County News, contact us at: Tel: 403.350.2150 ext 272 Fax: 403.346.9840 Councillor Christine Email: [email protected] Moore (Division 6) FOLLOW US: LIKE US: WATCH US: and Red Deer County Tech Rescue at Red Deer Remembrance Day honouring the brave men and www.twitter.com/ www.facebook.com/ www.youtube. women who gave reddeercounty reddeercounty com/rdcounty everything in defence of their country.

Agri-Trade at Westerner Park on November 5 to November 8 was a great success, welcoming 23,000 visitors to the area for the week. Join us in 2015 for another fantastic Agri-Trade, November 11 to November 14.

Mayor Jim Wood is pictured with Ahmet Altiparmak, the Governor of Erzurum, Turkey, at the Red Deer County booth Ag Services Manager Art at Agri-Trade. The Governor and his Turkish delegation Preachuk and County Staff toured Agri-Trade on an economic development mission, encourage the student specifically focussed on agriculture and livestock. The County News Agri-Trade delegation included Mustafa Emre Aydin – Coordinator of Reporters from Chinook’s Erzurum Investment Support Office, Mehmet Ali Cakal – Edge Grade 12 classes Specialist of Northeast Anatolia Development Agency, Dr. around the County, who Abru Emsen – Professor and Researcher at Ataturk University, attended Agri-Trade to Suleyman Canidemir – Commercial Consul Turkish Consulate Councillor Connie Huelsman learn, network, and vie for in Toronto, and Interpreter Gorkem Ahci. (Division 4) shares information scholarship opportunities. at the Red Deer County booth. Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 4

NOVEMBER 4, 2014

The meeting was called to order at 10:28 a.m. (Fensala Hall), $6,700; Great Bend Community Plan and the subdivision of a 4.01-hectare with Mayor J.J. Wood, Deputy Mayor R.R. Lorenz, Centre, $13,708.94; Knee Hill Valley Community (9.91-acre) bare agricultural parcel adjacent to Councillors J.M. Bota, D.B. Church, C.R. Huelsman, Centre, $12,900; Shady Nook Community Hall, the north boundary of the Antler Hill Equestrian P.J.R. Massier and C. Moore in attendance. $1,575; Glenellen Community Centre Association, Estates because the proposed Outline Plan and AGENDA & MINUTES $6,440.94; Oklahoma Community Centre, $18,950; subdivision do not comply with the Red Deer Willowdale Community Association, $3,815.99; County Municipal Development Plan Bylaw The agenda and the minutes of the October 21, Central Community Hall, $2,500; Collins 2012/26 Section 2.2. 2014 regular meeting of County Council and or- Community Centre, $40,000; Little Red Deer ganizational meeting of County Council were ap- NE 12-37-2-5 (Division 5) – unanimous approval Community Hall, $10,000; Dickson Store Museum, proved. was given to an application to subdivide a $5,894.86; and Markerville Community Society, 3.34-hectare (8.25-acre) parcel containing a REPORTS $9,599.19. farmstead, subject to six conditions. Dickson Store Museum Visitor Information City of Red Deer, Request to Purchase Land – IN-CAMERA SESSION Centre – unanimous approval was given to the unanimous approval was given to consent to the Rge Rd 245 – Notice of Intention to Expropriate endorsement of the Dickson Store Museum to City of Red Deer to proceed with the purchase of – unanimous approval was given to commence become the official Visitor Information Centre Lot 20, Block 1, Plan 1927TR, NW 18-36-26-4, land expropriation proceedings for acquiring a for the Spruce View / Dickson area of Red Deer located within Red Deer County. County. 45.04-hectare (111.3-acre) portion of the Lot 1, Alberta Community Partnership Grant Block 1, PLAN 022-3062, NW 5-36-24-4, for the Green Transit Incentives Program (Green – unanimous approval was given to the purpose of upgrading Rge Rd 245 and for the Trip) – unanimous approval was given to the endorsement of two grant applications under backsloping and earthborrow in connection with endorsement of an application to the Province of the 2014/2015 Intermunicipal Collaboration the upgrading of Rge Rd 245. Alberta’s Green Trip grant program to assist with component of the Alberta Community Rge Rd 245 – Notice of Intention to Expropriate the purchasing of one conventional transit bus. Partnership Program to assist with the Red Deer – unanimous approval was given to commence Community Service – 2014 Capital Assistance Regional Airport Expansion and with Regional expropriation proceedings for acquiring a Grants – unanimous approval was given to the Technical Rescue/Emergency Management 7.28-hectare (17.99-acre) portion of the Lot 1, 2014 Rural Community Facility Capital Assistance equipment upgrades. Block 1, PLAN 084-0393, SW 5-36-24-4, for the Grants to the following 20 community groups: DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS purpose of upgrading Rge Rd 245 and for the Cottonwood Gordon Ag Society (Hall), $25,000; Lots 3 to 6, Plan 1358MC, and Lot 7A, Plan backsloping and earthborrow in connection with Elnora and District Agricultural Society (Hall), 1455TR, NW 18-38-26-4 (Division 2) – unanimous the upgrading of Rge Rd 245. $10,000; Pine Lake Hub Centre Community approval was given for application to subdivide Association, $7,263.90; Poplar Ridge Community COMMITTEE REPORTS five parcels located within the Herder Subdivision Center, $20,000; Ridgewood Community Hall Councillors reported on meetings they have into fifteen residential parcels, subject to ten Society, $3,350; Spruce View Community attended on behalf of Red Deer County since conditions. Association (Hall), $19,063; Valley Centre October 22, 2014. Pt NE 21-36-28-4 (Division 3) – unanimous denial Community Hall, $4,200; Cumberland Community The meeting adjourned at 12:52 p.m. Hall, $6,717.90; Stephannson Icelandic Society was given to the application for the adoption of the Antler Hill Equestrian Estates Outline MUNICIPAL PLANNING November 4, 2014 COMMISSION The meeting was called to order at 9:30 a.m. with was given for a 27% lot coverage relaxation and a The property is located south of the City of Red Chairman Councillor P.J.R Massier, Mayor J.J. Wood, 2.59-metre (8.5’) rear yard setback relaxation for the Deer, east of Hwy 2, within the Petrolia Industrial Councillors J.M. Bota, D.B. Church, C.R. Huelsman, construction of an extension to a hangar, subject to Park adjacent to Pine Street. Unanimous approval R.R. Lorenz and C. Moore in attendance. four conditions. was given to operate an Assembly Facility, subject to AGENDA & MINUTES Premier Building Solutions – Lot 7, Block 8, Plan 142- nine conditions. The agenda and minutes of the October 21, 2014, 1970, SE 29-37-27-4 (Division 2) Norman Dupois – Unit 49, Plan 952-1060, SE 25-35-3- meeting were approved as submitted. The property is located south of the City of Red 5 (Division 5) BUSINESS FROM THE MINUTES Deer in Gasoline Alley Business Park West, west of The property is located in Phase 1 of the Gleniffer Leva Avenue on Lake Street. Unanimous approval Lake Resort on the north side of the Gleniffer Leslie and Connie Volk – SW 13-34-3-5 (Division 4) was given for a freestanding sign with a 3.6-metre Reservoir. Unanimous approval was given to deny The property is located approximately 12 miles west (11.8’) relaxation to the minimum distance between the application for a 1.63-metre (5.5’) relaxation of Bowden along the Little Red Deer River, adjacent the bottom of sign and grade for an existing to the minimum distance between park models for to Rge Rd 31 north of Twp Rd 342. Unanimous development, subject to eight conditions. the location of proposed Recreation Vehicle, as the approval was given to deny the application, as the Brad Minta – Pt NW 11-36-28-4 (Division 3) proposed relaxation is excessive and does not adhere setback distance does not comply with the Red Deer to Section 108.5 (a) (i) of the Land Use Bylaw. County Land Use Bylaw 2006/6 and is not supported The property is located approximately 2 miles Hopkins Construction – SW 35-34-4-5 (Division 5) by a Geotechnical Slope Assessment. north of the Town of Innisfail, west of Hwy 2A on Twp Rd 362. Unanimous approval was given for a The property is located southwest of the Gleniffer NEW BUSINESS Warehousing and Storage Facility limited to storage Lake Reservoir, south of Twp Rd 350 on Rge Rd Dan Harder - Lease #45, Block 1, Plan 782-1766, SE of Recreational Vehicles, subject to seventeen 42. Unanimous approval was given for a five-year 14-37-28-4 (Division 3) conditions. renewal for an existing gravel pit operation, subject This property is located within the Red Deer Regional BWs Fabrication Inc. – Lot 3, Block 2, Plan 812-0443, to twenty-seven conditions. Airport, adjacent to Apron 3. Unanimous approval SW 33-37-27-4 (Division 2) The meeting adjourned at 10:19 a.m. School Tax Information In the fall of every year, our Red Deer County Assessment Boards on an equal per-student basis. All property owners 403.350.2166 to gain this information. Red Deer County Department mails out a School Support Notice to all new pay Education Property tax on each property they own cannot make changes to School Declarations over the owners in the Red Deer County that have purchased a with no exceptions based on age or income. phone. property that falls in an area designated as a Separate Under the provisions of the School Act, the owner of a An owner can declare by filling out a School Declaration School District by the Alberta School Foundation. This property that falls within the Roman Catholic Separate Form. Forms for both individuals or for a corporation can year the Assessment Department mailed these notices out School support zone may complete a School Support be picked up at our Red Deer County office or printed in October. This always generates many good questions Notice. Therefore, an owner is entitled to declare whether from our website, www.rdcounty.ca. Once the form is from County Residents about School Tax. Therefore, this he or she is Roman Catholic, in which case the owner filled out and signed by all of the property owners, it can article provides some valuable information on not only must direct their taxes in support of schools to the be mailed in, faxed to 403.346.9840, or dropped off in School Declarations, but Education Property Tax as a Roman Catholic separate school district, or if they are not person at our Red Deer County Office. It is important to whole. Roman Catholic they must direct their taxes in support note, that any declarations received before December 31 Red Deer County collects tax on behalf of the Alberta of schools to the Public School District. A child going to of the current tax year, will be reflected on the next year’s School Foundation. Every year the province calculates, a public or separate school in Alberta is provided with tax notice. based on assessment value, the amount each municipality equal education funding. If a property owner has not For more information on Education Property Tax, how must contribute towards the public education system. The declared either Catholic or Public (undeclared), taxes will it is calculated or allocated, you can visit the following municipality then collects and forwards this amount to the automatically go to the Public School District. If a County website: www.education.alberta.ca/apps/annualreport or Alberta School Foundation Fund which then distributes Resident is unsure if they have declared, or what they call 780.422.7125. this money among Alberta’s Public and Separate School have declared, please call our Assessment Department at Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 5

for one-third (33%) of home heating fires and four out of Put A Freeze On five (81%) of home heating fire deaths. The leading factor contributing to home heating fires (28%) was failure to clean, principally creosote from solid- fueled heating equipment, primarily chimneys. Winter Fires Placing things that can burn too close to heating equipment or placing heating equipment too close to things that can burn, such as upholstered furniture, clothing, mattress, or bedding, was the leading factor contributing to ignition in fatal home heating fires and accounted for more than half (53%) of home heating fire deaths. Half (50%) of all home heating fires occurred in December, January and February. Heating safety tips Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths. Half of home heating equipment fires are reported during the months of December, January, and February. Some simple steps can prevent most heating-related fires from happening. • Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater. • Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters. • Never use your oven to heat your home. • Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions. • Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and Portions of this article were: “Reproduced from NFPA’s wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — inspected every year by a qualified professional. website, © NFPA (2014).” away from your stovetop. • Plug portable heaters directly into an electrical outlet, Winter brings with it two certainties: cold temperatures and If you have a cooking fire do not use an extension cord. holidays. As the winter months approach and temperatures • Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind • Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving continue to drop, most of us are indoors more and heating you to help contain the fire. the room or going to bed. our homes to stay warm. As the holidays approach we tend • Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you • Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the to spend extra time in the kitchen preparing traditional leave. manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters. meals and treats. While these are perfectly normal activities, • If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting • Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop when things go wrong, they can account for many of the out and you have a clear way out. sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool house fires which occur during the winter months. • Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother before putting them in a metal container. Keep the Holiday cooking safety tips small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid container a safe distance away from your home. • Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan • Test smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button. broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short covered until it is completely cooled. If you have any questions about this article or other period of time, turn off the stove. • For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door aspects of fire prevention you can send an email to • If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, closed. [email protected] check it regularly, remain in the home while food is Heating cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are Make sure to heat your home safely by following basic cooking. precautions and preventative measures. • Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, Space heaters, whether portable or stationary, accounted Pedestrian Safety Pedestrian safety is always a concern for involved in injury collisions had consumed alcohol prior motorists and the pedestrians themselves. to the collision. On average, more than 40 percent of This is not just an issue in towns and cities, pedestrians in fatal crashes and 11 percent in injury but anywhere a person might walk and includes rural crashes had consumed alcohol prior to the collision. roads. • Don’t assume drivers will see you and stop – be It is not just drivers who are responsible for pedestrian cautious and watch for drivers that are not stopping. safety, the pedestrians have responsibilities as well. • Be visible – most pedestrian incidents occur in low According to Alberta Transportation, in the period from light situations, so wear reflective clothing and if 2009 to 2013, on average each year in Alberta, more than necessary, carry a flashlight. 40 pedestrians were killed and just under 1160 injured. • Pay attention – don’t use cellphones or other In fact, in 2013, the casualty rates per 10,000 people were electronic devices when crossing the street. highest for pedestrians between the ages of 15 and 19, • Whenever possible, walk on the sidewalk. If there followed by those aged 20 to 24. However, 70 percent of is no sidewalk, walk off the road facing oncoming pedestrians killed are 25 or older. traffic. Pedestrians who are drinking are also at risk. On For information on this article or other issues, contact average each year, from 2009 to 2013, 16 pedestrians your County Patrol at 403.343.6301 or your local RCMP who were involved in fatal collisions and 122 of those Detachment. 76095L5 Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 6

Benalto & Area Rural Crime Watch

On Thursday, October 30, 2014, the & Area Rural Dave More, Directors: Pat Hill and Allan Hubl; Two positions Crime Watch Society held its AGM with over 35 members remain vacant: volunteers and new membership in both Red and four ‘Uniforms/Partners’ in attendance: Cst. Marty Deer and Lacombe Counties are encouraged to support your Reed, Sylvan Lake RCMP, Red Deer County Sr. Peace community crime awareness/prevention program. A special Officer Bob Dixon, Lacombe County Sr. Peace Officer thank you to our BARCWS Partners, Directors and Membership Julian Veuger, and recently appointed Operations/NCO for their sustaining support! ($25 for 5 years and RCMP Sgt. Jeff McBeth with Sylvan Lake RCMP. clearance) for more info, please contact: 403.746.3429 Prior to business and elections, the BARCWS membership and Partners were asked that an addition to the Agenda be recorded: ‘To pay tribute to Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent & Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, our Canadian soldiers who tragically Guest Speakers lost their lives in October, and to the 3 courageous Kodiak RCMP Lacombe County Sr. Peace Officer Officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in June 2014: Julian Veuger (on left) and Red Cst. Dave Ross, Cst. Fabrice Gevaudan, Cst. Douglas Larche - Deer County Sr. Peace Officer Bob we remember them and we give thanks to men and women in Dixon finishing their 35 minute protective services and law enforcement who serve and protect presentation “The Life of a County and stand on guard for thee... Peace Officer: the lighter side “ That means us...and we need to stand on guard as rural crime (together a total of 60 years of watch members: ‘be aware, dare to care, know your community’ . Benalto & Area Rural Crime Watch law enforcement and supervisory The President, Yvette Brideau, then asked all attendance to rise Society October 30 AGM (L to R): Red Deer County Sr. experience were on display through for the singing of “O CANADA”, led by Edna Mannerfeldt. Peace Officer Bob Dixon, Lacombe County Sr. Peace narratives, video and images). Indeed Elections : the following BARCWS Directors were elected for the Officer Julian Veuger, Sylvan Lake Cst. Marty Reed, and a very informative and engaging year 2014-2015: Sgt. Jeff McBeth, Operations/NCO, Sylvan Lake RCMP talk by two well respected and President: Yvette Brideau, Vice-President: Dave Dale, Secretary: and very supportive BARCWS Membership professional law enforcement Peace Officers, Partners to BARCWS.

Vehicle Thefts they legitimately represent the Red Deer Rural Crime Watch Blackfalds organization. If you believe someone RCMP remind is falsely representing an organization, On November 6, 2014, a Rural Crime Watch information/recruitment session was held residents to simply tell them you will not contribute at the Shady Nook Hall. The meeting was organized by Karen Ninkovich a member off be cautious of to their fundraising. Should you feel RCW and the community, with close to 70 people in attendance. warming up it constitutes calling the police, do so There was a panel of individuals in attendance to speak about the roles of different their vehicles in a timely manner (ie. right away vs groups within law enforcement and crime prevention. Discussions took place on what is and is not working when it comes to safety and crime reduction in our communities. with the winter hours later), remember the name of Several different strategies and options were discussed, with communication between communities and law season upon the organization being represented and enforcement being utmost. Empowering communities through getting to know your neighbour, locking and us. Criminals obtain any pertinent vehicle information securing your property and vehicles, reporting suspicious vehicles/individuals, and always being aware of are taking the (ie. make/model/lic plate number etc) to happenings within your community were emphasized. Troy Ropchan of C.O.P. (Citizens on Patrol - City of Red opportunity to steal vehicles that are assist the police. Deer) provided an overview of how his organization combats crime and suspicious activity within communities. left running, unlocked and unattended. Safe Driving - The Blackfalds RCMP How they worked with law enforcement and requirements/funding of his group. Gloria Derksen from Victims Should you need to warm up your remind people to drive for the road Services also spoke of their role when someone becomes a victim of crime. TerryLee Ropchan from Central vehicle, ensure it is locked and if conditions. There has obviously Alberta Crime Prevention Centre - City of Red Deer spoke about their services and community resources. possible keep an eye out for any persons been a large infl ux of motor vehicle The role of municipal councillors was discussed when it comes to improving confidence in the criminal justice who may be trying to take advantage collisions both in the town-sites and system and putting more detriments in place, for individuals looking to choose a life of crime. of the situation. This includes making highways including numerous persons It was agreed during the presentations, that getting the information out as quickly as possible, either through relatively quick stops at businesses leaving the roadway due to the slick Rural Crime Watch fan outs, or community Facebook pages was vital. Sometimes that vehicle or license plate - turn the vehicle off and secure it conditions. Police remind and suggest may be just what law enforcement needs to make their case or seizure. Information happening in and around the appropriately. to motorists the following: Rural Crime Watch areas will also be posted on the Red Deer Rural Community Crime Watch Facebook Page. Thefts from Vehicles - Blackfalds • Leave ample time to arrive at your Due to crime activity in and around the Red Deer County, it was decided more meetings would be held within RCMP reminds people to ensure their destination safely different communities, with presentations at each. There was also mention of conducting crime prevention vehicles are secured with all valuables • Drive slower/ more defensively leaving workshops in and around the Red Deer County, again creating more awareness/resources for citizens. out of the vehicle or stored somewhere enough room from the vehicle in front “the best solutions, the most effective solutions, are found in the communities, implemented in the communities, not visible to potential thieves (ie. the of you to stop in time if needed and achieved in the communities” - Alberta Crime Reduction and Safe communities Task Force, June 2007. trunk). December sees many incidents • Avoid ‘convoy driving’ (numerous A special thank you to Red Deer Catering for providing coffee and sweets for our meeting. in which shoppers will attend multiple vehicles close together) because it For a presentation in your community, contact RDRCW or Councillor Christine Moore. locations leaving gifts in plain view, leaves too little time to avoid each For more crime prevention information and application forms, visit www.rdruralcrimewatch.com prompting the increased likelihood of other if needed someone stealing them. • Equip your vehicle with appropriate Christmas ‘charity scams’ - Be winter tires if possible aware of potential door to door con • Use internet services (ie. AMA) to artists attempting to defraud people determine road conditions ahead of during the holiday season. If you time believe someone does not represent an • Have some form of safety kit in organization, it’s more than reasonable preparation of possibly being in a The panel consisted of (L to R): to ask for some identifi cation or other collision or being stuck in a ditch. Allissa Lloyd - Red Deer County Patrol, Constable John Szerve - RD rural RCMP, form of documentation that confi rms Gloria Derksen - Victims Services, Councillor Christine Moore (Division 6), TerryLee Ropchan - Central for Crime Prevention, Troy Ropchan - C.O.P. (Citizens on Patrol), and Becky Jardine - RCW - crime prevention. Councillors Don Church and Jean Bota were also in attendance.

Sun Country Realty BEMOCO Brian Sawyer Broker Land Surveying Ltd. Innisfail Co-op Mall, 4303 - 50 St., Suite 16 Innisfail, Alberta T4G 1B6 Office: 227-5571 Fax: 227-2560 - Land Surveyors - Oilfield Surveys Cell: 391-2450 Toll Free 1-866-227-9125 - Subdivision - Road Construction Each Office Independently Owned and Operated M. Young A.L.S. email: [email protected] website: www.remaxsuncountryrealty.com 403-342-2611 Fax: 403-342-2910 100, 6040 - 47 Ave., Red Deer

“Together We Can Make It Happen” 75911L5 75910L5 Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 7 Red Deer County Tables 2015 Capital And Operating Budgets For Public Input Council seeking public input prior to December 9 budget approval. (RED DEER COUNTY) - The 2015 Operating and Capital outside funding requests. 2015 will see no changes in and storm water improvements in Gasoline Alley. budgets were tabled by Council at their regular meeting special levies; the Environmental levy remains at 0.1590, Members of the public will have two weeks to comment on November 25. County Council is now looking Protective Services remains at 0.5000, and Community on the information presented. The draft budget report for public input on the budget, which sees an overall Services remains at 0.4000. can be found at www.rdcounty.ca. Once comments are decrease in spending of almost six million dollars. According to Director of Corporate Services Heather Gray, received, the budget will go before Council on December Mayor Jim Wood commented, “This budget reflects the “Administration has been especially mindful of Council`s 9 for approval. strong financial position held by Red Deer County. We strategic plan while budgeting, and has ensured adequate Key Initiatives for 2015: continue to undertake major road and infrastructure resources are available to achieve success. We have •Kevisville landfill remediation (part 1B) - $1.5M projects, without compromising our reserves, or unfairly maintained current service levels with slight modifications •Red Deer College – Canada Winter Games facility burdening our ratepayers. I would like to thank the as outlined in the Key Initiatives.” request - $500,000 staff and Council for their hard work in creating this Capital spending will decrease dramatically in 2015. The •Bridge Repair projects - $4.1M progressive budget.” decrease, from over $27M to roughly $20.5M, is mainly •Road paving program - $6M In 2015, the Operating budget will increase by due to fewer large scale projects. That decrease will not •Airport capital expansion request - $1.7M approximately one million - from $45.4M to $46.4M. affect overall service levels, as 2014 contained several one- •Sylvan Lake Multiplex contribution (over 2 years) - However, roughly $3M of this will be dedicated to off items, such as a new building for Protective Services, $1.1M

DEVELOPMENT PERMITS

Permit Number Applicant Name Parcel Permit Type Valuation D-14-039 ALFANO ENTERPRISES LTD. NE14-36-25-W4M RELAXATION/ VARIANCE REQUIRED $35,000.00 D-14-039 ALFANO ENTERPRISES LTD. NE14-36-25-W4M R1 ADDITION/COV DECK/SOLARIUM $35,000.00 D-14-241 SSSLR HOLDINGS LTD NE11-39-27-W4M MI OILFIELD SERV/SUPPLY MAJOR $200,000.00 D-14-301 MOREAU, JEFFERY JOSEPH NE4-36-3-W5M AG MOVED IN BUILDING $325,500.00 D-14-319 HOPKINS CONSTRUCTION(LACOMBE) LTD. SW35-34-4-W5M AG AGGREGATE REMOVAL $0.00 D-14-322 1376967 ALBERTA LTD SE33-37-27-W4M BS OILFIELD SERV/SUPPLY MINOR $1,917,000.00 D-14-331 SWANSON, DEVON ALEXANDER NE14-35-24-W4M AG TEMPORARY DEVELOPMENT $325,000.00 D-14-339 BREWSTER, KELLY & SE25-34-2-W5M RELAXATION/ VARIANCE REQUIRED $25,000.00 D-14-339 BREWSTER, KELLY & SE25-34-2-W5M AG ACCESSORY BUILDING $25,000.00 D-14-349 HERRON, STEVE & KATHERINE SW19-35-2-W5M DC CAREFREE RESORT SW19-35-2-5 $80,000.00 D-14-353 RILEY, TREVOR S SE15-36-27-W4M AG SECOND DWELLING - FARM HELP $10,000.00 D-14-360 1244456 ALBERTA LTD. SE29-37-27-W4M CT MULTI ATTACHED DWELLING $5,000,000.00 D-14-361 PRO ENERGY NE27-37-27-W4M MI WAREHOUSING & STORAGE $150,000.00 D-14-369 JACKSON, JOYCE E NW24-37-2-W5M AG SECOND DWELLING - FARM HELP $60,000.00 D-14-373 HUTCHINGS, BILL & DEBRA NW12-36-25-W4M R7 APPROVAL OF USE DISCRETIONA $30,000.00 D-14-376 PLANNING PROTOCOL 2 INC. SE16-39-27-W4M AG SECOND DWELLING - COMPASSIO $578,000.00 D-14-378 JENSEN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SE25-35-3-W5M R7 COTTAGE $225,000.00 D-14-384 WEAVER, WENDELL E & STEPHANIE NE21-36-2-W5M AG HOME BUSINESS - MAJOR $0.00 D-14-397 BWS FABRICATION INC. SW33-37-27-W4M BS WAREHOUSING & STORAGE $0.00 D-14-399 LEVEILLE, BRODY & BRITTANY NE31-34-27-W4M AG ADDITION/COV DECK/SOLARIUM $20,000.00 D-14-406 O’BERTOS, MICHAEL SCOTT NE6-36-24-W4M R6 COVERED DECK/ADDITION/SOLAR $16,000.00 D-14-413 GEIGER, KYREON SE27-38-28-W4M AG CLUSTERED FARM IN URBAN FRI $170,000.00 D-14-417 EXECUTIVE BUILDERS GROUP INC. SE13-37-28-W4M SL SINGLE DETACHED DWELLING $320,400.00 d-14-418 PREMIER BUILDING SOLUTIONS PT29-37-27-W4M C2 SIGNS $0.00 D-14-421 FAIRHOLME FINANCIAL LTD SE9-38-28-W4M DEMOLITION $5,000.00 D-14-422 KRUGER FOOTIT, MARELISE NE6-36-24-W4M R6 UNCOVERED DECK $3,000.00 D-14-423 FRASER, SCOTT ROBERT & KELLY LYNN KRISTINA NW9-36-25-W4M AG ACCESSORY BUILDING $5,000.00 D-14-424 1527438 ALBERTA LTD NW27-37-27-W4M BS ACCESSORY BUILDING $110,000.00 D-14-425 KEMP, ROBERT J & BEATRICE MARIE SE31-35-28-W4M AG ACCESSORY BUILDING $100,000.00 D-14-428 CRAGG, JASON & JENNIFER NW21-38-28-W4M R1 HOME BUSINESS - MINOR $0.00 D-14-429 CANYON SERVICES GROUP INC. SE25-38-28-W4M BS ACCESSORY BUILDING $140,000.00 D-14-430 BLOXHAM, COLLIN & DOREEN NW24-34-2-W5M AG MOVED IN BUILDING $189,000.00 D-14-431 1098547 ALBERTA LTD SW33-37-27-W4M BS ACCESSORY BUILDING $7,000.00 D-14-433 POIRIER, PIERRE SW13-37-28-W4M SL HOME BUSINESS MINOR $0.00 D-14-435 KIRBYSON, SHANE A & PAISH, CHARLEEN A SW16-38-23-W4M R3 ACCESSORY BLDG UNDER 2150 $3,000.00 D-14-437 FRENETTE, CONNIE JANE SW12-38-28-W4M AG SECONDARY SUITE $150,000.00 D-14-438 SEYMOUR, BRIAN SE19-38-26-W4M R1 SINGLE DETACHED DWELLING $1,600,000.00 D-14-439 STEVENSON HOMES NW16-34-1-W5M AG SINGLE DETATCHED DWELLING $320,000.00 D-14-440 1358736 ALBERTA LTD NW27-37-27-W4M BS OUTDOOR STORAGE AS ACCESSO $390,000.00 D-14-445 3TSIGNS LTD SE29-37-27-W4M C3 SIGNS $50,000.00 D-14-448 615833 ALBERTA LTD SE32-37-27-W4M DC 21 ACCESSORY BUILDING $2,500.00

Town’n Country Water Systems Your Water Treatment Superstore Experience the Kinetico Difference • Non-electric and reliable • Highly Effi cient - regeneration uses only 1lb of salt, 13 gals of water, in 11 minutes • NSF Certifi ed Performance • Free water analysis

CALL TODAY 403.340.3770 Gasoline Alley, Red Deer www.kinetico.ca

75832B7-A2 Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 8

Public Information Session Liberty Landing Land Use Bylaw Amendment & Outline Plan Wednesday, December 10, 2014 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM Held at the Hampton Inn and Suites 128 Leva Ave, Gasoline Alley, Red Deer County Lamont Land Inc. invites you to a walk-around format information session to learn about a proposed residential neighbourhood, Liberty Landing, located in Gasoline Alley West. This is your opportunity to discuss the Concept Plan with the Project Team. For more information, please contact: Gordon Lau Stantec Consulting Ltd. Ph: 403.341.3320 [email protected]

Northwestern Air Adds New Service between Red Deer and Northwestern Air is pleased to announce the addition of a new regularly Flight Schedule scheduled non-stop service between Red Deer and Grande Prairie effective Red Deer (YQF) to Grande Prairie (YQU) December 1, 2014. The new route will operate between Red Deer Airport (YQF) and Grande Prairie Airport (YQU) 4 days per week. Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday “We are expanding our service from Red Deer to include Grande Prairie. We Depart 07:30 07:30 07:30 07:30 have a long and very successful partnership with the Red Deer Airport Authority and the surrounding communities and we are excited to see our offering from the Arrive 08:45 08:45 08:45 08:45 airport continue to grow” said Ty Roberts, General Manager of Northwestern Air. Grande Prairie (YQU) to Red Deer (YQF) With the addition of Grande Prairie, Northwestern brings its destination offering Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday from Red Deer to three cities including Fort McMurray and Kelowna. “Adding another link within the province is great business news for both the Depart 09:30 09:30 09:30 09:30 Grande Prairie and Red Deer regions.” Said RJ Steenstra, CEO, Red Deer Airport Arrive 10:45 10:45 10:45 10:45 Authority. “With the strong business connections that exist this is an important Introductory pricing will be offered until December 31, 2014. To book a flight route expansion for our region and it gives Central Albertan’s a more convenient please contact your travel agent, call 1.877.872.2216 or go to www.nwal.ca. travel option.” He adds. “The airport continues to be committed and focused on Northwestern Air Lease Ltd. serving Central Albertan’s and maximizing regional economic growth and this Headquartered in Fort Smith, NWT Canada, Northwestern Air is a scheduled new route is another important step.” and charter airline with scheduled flight service to and from , Fort McMurray, Fort Smith, Hay River, Fort Chip, Kelowna, Red Deer, Grande Prairie and Yellowknife. Red Deer Airport Serving Central Albertans, Red Deer Airport offers scheduled passenger service to Fort McMurray, , Kelowna and Grande Prairie through airline partners Northwestern Air and Air Canada Express. YQF continues to be one of the busiest regional airports in Canada and a vital and vibrant transportation link for . The Red Deer Airport Authority is a not-for-profit, non-share Capital Corporation incorporated under the Alberta Regional Airports Authorities Act. Since 1992, it has been responsible for the management, maintenance and development of Red Deer Airport. www.flyreddeer.com www.nwal.ca Do you think you may have land with gravel? Central Alberta Company currently looking for sources of Gravel within one hour of Red Deer. If you want to learn more, please email us. [email protected] 78275L5 Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 9

Alberta’s Air Spray makes its International Mark

The largest tenant at Red Deer Airport, Air Spray is making an international difference for its work in fire suppression across Canada and in the United States. Despite the importance of their role, however, its specialized nature means the company’s work – and its astounding growth – often pass unremarked on in the general community.

SinceSSince thethhe mid-1970s,midd-1970s, AirAir SpraySpray hashas operatedoperated out off RedRedd DeerDeer ttoo governments andandd otherothher organizations thatthhat fightffighht fires.ffires. “This“Thhis maintenance, oveoverhauls,rhhaulls, anandd sometimes rebuildingrebbuilldding aircraft.aircrafft. Airport; its original business of fire suppression has evolved technology wasnwasn’t’t there 5 to 10 years ago,” ago ” Lane explainsexplains. ““WeWe ““BeyondBeyond maintenance and repairs, repairs we are establishing niche into specialized pilot training and developing new aircraft for try to be at the leading edge of that kind of training and, now, areas doing specialty conversion work,” says Lane. “No one fire suppression. These business lines ensure steady growth for we lease our flight simulators to Transport Canada and other else in Alberta does this work on this scale. Many large airlines the company throughout Canada and into the USA, but the aviation companies to train their pilots.” currently have that work done overseas.” Edmonton-based company runs all their aviation operations An expansion to the USA was a natural choice. Their demand Their success in the expanding field of aircraft maintenance from their Red Deer Airport location. for the service is greater: in San Diego, for example, the fire has lead Air Spray to form a new company called Springbrook “Air Spray is primarily a forest fire suppression company – season starts in December or January. Just two years ago, Aerospace, which they plan to open in early January 2015. during the fire season, we work throughout Alberta, BC, the Air Spray opened a US subsidiary in California. “We are They’ve leased a new hangar at Red Deer Airport where they Northwest Territories, the Yukon and California,” says Paul developing the next generation of our tanker there, and we’ll can continue to expand their work in large-scale aircraft Lane, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Air Spray. bring it on in the US first,” Lane says. “Because of the longer maintenance and repairs. As part of that work, Air Spray trains their own pilots, fire season in the US, there will be more demand for the tanker Air Spray requires runway work and extensions at Red Deer recruiting experienced pilots who can fly at low levels and there.” Airport in order to provide the level of aircraft maintenance at low speeds, which are necessary skills when fighting fires. The new aircraft is a single engine tanker that will be available service the company is capable of, and Air Spray continues to “Our pilots have been flying for thousands of hours before we in two versions: one with wheel’s and a float-based version partner with Red Deer Airport and work with The City of Red recruit them,” says Lane. “We only take the best of the best. that can land on water, scoop it up and then drop it on the fire. Deer and Red Deer County to make that happen. These pilots are flying in very turbulent conditions and we While the float-based concept has been around for a long time, “It’s a long term investment in the community,” says Lane. need them to have a lot of experience.” the version Air Spray is developing will be significantly smaller “Our aircraft are commercial versions of military aircraft, so While that pilot training was intended to support fire than the float-based aircraft that are currently available, and we’re looking at opening it up for military people to use in suppression work, it soon became a lucrative part of the Air therefore significantly less expensive to purchase and to the off-season, as well. We’re also looking at making our flight Spray business, and the company began leasing their flight maintain. training simulators portable so that we can move them around training simulators to other organizations during non-peak Beyond the fire suppression, training and new product the country for more training.” times. “Air Spray is set apart by our three flight simulators; we development, Air Spray runs a busy aircraft maintenance With 70 year-round employees plus additional pilots and are adept at building flight training devices,” says Lane. “We business. With 100,000 square feet of space at Red Deer Airport, staff every summer, Air Spray’s varied business lines keep it have designed systems where we can put a fire on the ground they keep busy during the summer months maintaining their flourishing year-round and contributing to the local economy. and then suppress it.” own flight of aircraft for fire suppression work. Year-round, For more information, please visit www.airspray.com. And so Air Spray began to provide pre-fire season training however, they also maintain outside aircraft, doing routine www.flyreddeer.com Put Money In Your Pocket – Being Green Pays! By Aimee Delaney, Conservation Assistant If you want to be a good steward of your acreage and get paid to do so, then Red Deer County’s Green Acreages is for you. Green Acreages is an opportunity for acreage owners and stewards to protect the environment around them by giving them the tools to assess risks and money to alleviate those risks. Red Deer County funded multiple conservation projects on acreages this year, making year one of Green Acreages successful. More than $10,000 went into on-the-ground work to mitigate environmental risks on acreage properties. More money is available next year, so now is a great time to start creating your Green Acreages plan. Projects that may be available for funding, but are not limited to include: Riparian tree planting, riparian fencing, fish and wildlife habitat protection or enhancement, septic/sewage upgrades, and more. The first step to making your acreage greener is to attend one of Red Deer County’s Funding Workshops on February 19, 2015. Find more information in the next County News. To register for our workshop or to find out how you can apply for money to make your acreage green, call Aimee at 403.350.2150 or email at [email protected] Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 10 Red Red Deer Deer County County News News DECEMBER APRIL 2014 2014 PAGE PAGE 11 11 Agriculture Services

Agricultural Service Board (ASB) Growing Forward 2 In 2014, Red Deer County continued helping producers with the planning and paper work required to access the environment-related Rental Sprayers Bridge Vegetation Control Growing Forward 2 programs. We worked with a total of 17 producers, to help them apply for over $150,000 for 28 projects. These were: 2 Energy Efficient Program Waterers; 7 Off-site Watering Systems; 3 Portable Shelters; 1 New Dugout; 2 Workshops and Field Days Creek Crossings; 3 New Wells; 1 Riparian Tree Planting; 5 Riparian Fencing; 2 Livestock Pens Relocations; 1 Run-on / Run-off Management; 1 Double-walled Fuel Tank. This support was provided one-on-one, either at the producer’s kitchen table or at the County office. Conservation Partners Conservation Partners helps landowners in Red Deer County cover the costs of managing their native range and Representatives from Red Deer County Council and Farmer members at riparian areas (areas large make up your Ag Service Board; their mandate is to advise County around creeks, rivers, Council and the Ag Services Dept on local Agricultural issues. All Agricultural sloughs etc.) in sustainable ways. Programming is overseen by the Ag Service Board, their guidance is crucial to Also, private individuals, businesses, We have two truck box rental sprayers as well as maintaining existing programs and developing new and innovative programs etc. can donate funding that goes 2 ATV mounted rental sprayers. We made some that affect the Agricultural Industry within our Municipality. directly to on-the-ground projects. improvements to our truck box sprayers for the Early in 2014, the ASB reviewed Red Deer County Ag Services Business Plan In 2014, Tagish Engineering became 2014 season which got quite a positive reception and identified a few areas that they would like to see more action and input the first corporate “Donor Partner”. With their contribution, added to funding from individuals that rented the sprayers. We added from within the Agricultural Services Department. One of these areas was from the County and from the Alberta Conservation Association, Conservation electronic solenoids to turn the booms on and off. in the Management of Red Deer County’s owned agricultural lands which Partners supported 17 projects throughout the County in 2014. As a result of This year, there was a decrease in the number of rentals for the truck box sprayer and a large increase are annually leased to local residents to be farmed. In an effort to increase the program, roughly 236 acres of native range and riparian area are under new In 2014, Red Deer County hosted or co-hosted a in the number of rentals of the ATV mounted sprayer. styles of management. As well, the impacts of about 537 Animal Units on these number of information sessions for landowners. These stewardship and management of these lands, the term of the leases have Overall, the total number of rentals decreased from 48 areas have changed. included: Ranching Opportunities, Weeds of Red been lengthened and each bidder is also asked to submit and follow a pre- in 2013 to 42 this year. determined cropping and management plan. Deer County, and a Working Well workshop Our Bridge Vegetation Control Program focuses on Another item identified by our ASB, was an old by-law that had been on the Shelterbelt and Tree Planting Program Eradicable Weeds Initiative using mainly mechanical methods to reduce the books since 1973. By-Law No. 21/73 stated that owner of land adjacent to a vegetation around County bridges. The main purpose highway (paved or gravelled) was responsible for the control of weeds to the Roadside Weed Control Program of this program is to reduce the potential fuel source if centre-line of the roadway. This obviously hadn’t been enforced in many years a fire were to occur at these sites, decrease the drifting and was rescinded at Council’s October 7 meeting. Red Deer County has and of snow, increase visibility, and limit the spread of will continue to control weeds and vegetation within its roadside right-of- undesirable vegetation such as weeds and brush. We ways. increased the level of service to the bridges this year. Red Deer County’s Agricultural Service Board also drafted a resolution We visited 83 structures for a total of 198 visits. That that requests that Alberta Agriculture regulate acceptable levels of ergot in is an increase of 63 visits over last year. screening that can be as livestock feed and continue to educate livestock producers and the public about the toxicity of ergot in processed livestock Municipal Maintenance feeds. This has become a growing problem in recent years and devastating 2014 was Canada’s first year without the long-standing “PFRA Shelterbelt effects have reached into Central Alberta, with some local producers seeing Program”. That didn’t stop Red Deer County or Red Deer County landowners losses due to ergot toxicity. however. Red Deer County partnered with the Agro-Forestry and Woodlot Keep in the loop with your Ag Service Board by checking out previous meeting Extension Society to plant 8,995 trees and shrubs in riparian areas in the The 2014 Roadside Weed Control Program started on minutes or upcoming meeting agenda’s on-line at: www.rdcounty.ca/249/ County. Please note that under the provincial / federal Growing Forward May 29. We were able to travel 100% of the County Agriculture-Service-Board. 2 program, and the County’s Conservation Partners and Green Acreages roads and spot sprayed for any weeds that were programs, landowners may be eligible to get funding to pay for shelterbelts, present. We also had the ability to revisit 15% of the Off Site Watering Demo Units and Electric riparian plantings, or habitat plantings. Also, Red Deer County has a Tree roads and take care of any weeds that were not visible Planter for free rental, to make the job of planting these trees a little easier (this on the first pass. We also use two spot spray trucks, Fencing Try-before-you-buy Equipment went out once in 2014). Also available for free, is the use of a Plastic Mulch a quad, and two UTVs to fill the gaps where the In an effort to remove invasive weeds from our roadside trucks cannot get to or if any areas have been Applicator which will help give seedlings a head start in their first few years municipality, Red Deer County Ag Service Board missed. It was a successful year despite all the windy (this went out to 7 landowners in 2014). began an Eradicable Weeds initiative in 2012. This days at the beginning of the year blowing us out. initiative is based on the Provincial Weed Control Alternative Land Use Services (“ALUS”) Act’s Prohibited Noxious Weed List. Any weed With ALUS, landowners can be paid (real money!!) Fence-line Weed Control Program carrying that designation found within Red Deer for the services from nature that they are providing, The Fence-line Program is a program that allows County will be eradicated by our Ag Services Dept when they conserve wetlands, riparian areas, and native at little or no expense to the Landowner. Since its range. As of December 2014, we are in the final stages inception in 2012, Red Deer County Ag Services Staff of discussions with 7 landowners, who are looking have removed prohibited noxious weeds at 12 sites to conserve or restore 222 acres of environmentally across our Municipality. Currently these infestations important areas, and who may receive on overage $569 have been controlled, but the sites will need to be per year for the next 5 years for the services from nature they are providing. monitored in the coming years to ensure eradication. Our solar and wind powered off-site watering system went out to two farms. In 2013, staff, through the help of County residents, 2014 saw a restructuring of the Municipal Maintenance At the second farm, we and the farmer helped Alberta Agriculture test out a Green Acreages discovered: Common Barberry, Purple Loosestrife and program. This program focuses on 22 County owned “remote alarm system” that sends an email to the farmer’s SmartPhone, if the A new initiative for acreage owners hit the stage in 2014. Red Deer County was Japanese Knotweed, all of which were new infestations sites located throughout the county that require water level drops below a certain level. Also, thanks to a funding donation from the first county to create a program for small parcel landowners to mitigate not previously known to staff. For 2014 the most various forms of labour from activities such as weed the Friends of the Little Red Deer River Society, we purchased a second solar environmental risks on their properties – complete with an assessment tool and prevalent Prohibited Noxious we dealt with was whacking, herbicide application, weed pulling, watering system. This system is available for use in pasture rental situations. funding. Rounding out the year with 4 landowners, 5 completed projects and more Bighead Knapweed which was sold at greenhouses maintaining certain equipment, cleaning up trees, and us to treat listed weeds and brush in fence lines of than $10,000 reimbursed to these landowners for their work, Green Acreages is a for years as an ornamental plant. It is very important more. This year we added a more regular schedule landowners that sign up for the program. This year bonafide success! to continue on the path of Early Detection and Rapid to the weed whacking element. Mainly due to these Environmental Farm Planning was comparable to last year with the amount of changes, we did see a slight increase to the amount of Producers in Red Deer County can complete their Response (EDRR) especially when it comes to invasive participation. We are still hoping to see the utilization species. If you think you may know of an invasive visits we made to these sights. We went from 80 visits Environmental Farm Plans by working with the County of this program increase as awareness for it rises. species in your area please contact the Ag Services in 2013 to 98 visits this year Conservation Coordinator. In 2014, 17 Environmental Department. Farm Plans were started by producers with support from Red Deer County, and 9 Plans were reviewed. Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 12

Agriculture Services

Weed Inspection Safe Water Well Initiative

During the past couple of seasons our approach to Weed Inspection has We can help protect your water supply! been slightly different than it was in the past. Our goal now is to establish The 2014 season saw another slow year for having water wells plugged. direct contact with landowners and land managers to address weed concerns Although 7 landowners signed up to have wells plugged, only 4 wells in on their property. We feel that a higher level of compliance is achieved the whole County were actually completed. For those of you who may when we can have a discussion about weeds and mutually develop a weed not have heard of this program, the Safe Water Well Initiative program control plan, rather than a formal letter requesting compliance. Almost provides county residents with the chance to apply to the County for every weed concern will require follow-up in subsequent years which is financial assistance (up to $1,000) in plugging wells which are no longer much more productive once a personal contact is made. This results in used. Under provincial legislation the well owner is ultimately responsible fewer reports being written, but on the flip side, greater compliance is for plugging unused wells. This means that if there is a contamination issue achieved through direct contact and communication. In total, our Weed the well owner will be held liable for damages. Also, if contaminants were Inspectors performed just under 1600 property inspections in 2014 and to enter a well these could then contaminate the aquifer and affect any other achieved a compliance rate of over 94%. Property’s that did not comply in wells using that same aquifer. This can lead to a very large and expensive 2014 will be among the first to be inspected in the spring of 2015. problem to rectify. There is no exact way to know just how many wells are Our Inter-Municipal Weed Inspection partnership continued with the in Red Deer County since many are unreported, however estimates show Town of Innisfail and The Town of Sylvan Lake. This was the fifth year of that there are likely several thousand that likely could be decommissioned. the partnership and the focus has begun to shift from educating residents County residents are encouraged to take advantage of this great program in the first few years to achieving compliance and enforcing the weed act to make their property as safe as possible. We are fortunate enough in this where necessary. In total 379 reports were issued in the Towns of Sylvan province to have easy access to safe water, let’s work to keep it that way! Lake and Innisfail. For a complete list of provincially restricted weeds: www1.agric.gov. Pest Control Program ab.ca/$Department/deptdocs.nsf/All/prm13875. River Weed Control Program

As part of Agricultural Services commitment to the Pest Act, inspectors participated in several surveys this year including: clubroot, fusarium, grasshoppers and bertha armyworms. Another 488 fields were surveyed for clubroot with 8 turning up positive for clubroot. Pest notices have been issued on the infected parcels and the owners and land managers have been fully cooperative in keeping this pest at bay. An interesting note from this year’s canola inventory, we discovered that in addition to the 68 fields that were sown to canola back to back in the 2013 and 2014 growing seasons, there were another 17 fields that had canola on them for the previous 3 2014 was the second official year of Red Deer County’s River Weed growing seasons (2012, 2013 and 2014). Control Program however this was the first year where a substantial Throughout the summer, we also assist Alberta Agriculture with their amount was able to be performed. During the 2013 year the main bertha army worm survey, bertha numbers were higher than we have seen focus of the program was to simply patrol the river to try to find weed in past years, but were still below the economic threshold. Most traps in infestation sites. This year not only were we able to map the river but a Red Deer County totaled in the 50-150 moths/trap/year range, however large amount of weed infestation sites were also treated, either through there were sprayable numbers in Lacombe County, where tallies were over chemical or manual removal. In total we were able to map 85 kilometers 1200 moths/trap/year. With such a wet spring, the grasshoppers were of the Red Deer River and found 80 separate infestation sites. 46 of kept in check, though some populations were noted in sporadic patches these sites received some form of weed control which translates to 50 in traditional grasshopper territory. For the full report continue to Alberta kilometers of river being treated. The remaining sites will be treated next Agriculture’s Insect Pest Monitoring Network: year where our attention will be shifting to maintaining these treated sites www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$Department/deptdocs.nsf/All/prm13779 to ultimately have them completely removed. The main weeds of concern 2% Liquid Strychnine was again distributed for the Control of Richardson that we’ve been dealing with are Common Tansy, Scentless Chamomile, Ground Squirrel. After multiple requests and resolutions from Provincial Yellow Toadflax and Canada Thistle. Weeds are a concern along our Ag Service Boards, the product received semi-permanent registration waterways as they serve as an invasion point to potentially infest the land from the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA). This means that further in from the river. Not only are they a problem for us but they producers are able to carry-over inventory into the next season and legally also create problems for our neighbors downstream by releasing seeds use the product until April 11th, 2015. Provincial reps are confident that when distributing themselves over large distances. With the flooding in the 2% LSC will be re-registered for another 5 years after the April 2015 recent years many new areas of open land have opened leaving them date. Distribution totals have levelled off in the last 4 years indicating that very vulnerable to infestation by weedy species. If you would like more the RGS population is, for the most part, under control. Red Deer County information on the River Weed Control Program feel free to contact Red will be retailing/distributing this product for its residents once again in the Deer County at 403.350.2150. spring of 2015. Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 13

Agriculture Services

12th Annual Enterprising Ag Tour The 2014 Enterprising Agriculture Tour *(EAT) visited 4 smaller acreage,, farm entities that are flourishing. They ranged from 6-30 years of operation, but showed us that if you have the passion and determination you can find a way to make it work within the acres you have. On the larger scale we visited a crop inputs dealership in Penhold that feed our crops. Of course it wouldn t be a real EATour if we didn’t test out the fruits of our fantastic agricultural producers. Thanks to Bob Ronnie Catering for another awesome lunch. If you have Ideas for the 2015 EATour let us know and we’d be pleased to have you join us.

Stops on the 2014 Enterprising Ag Tour included Springvale Meadows Stables, Bowden Farm Fresh Chicken, Crop Production Services (Penhold), and Steel Pony Farms and Prairie Gold Pastured Meats at Tamara Ranch. 2014 Agri-Trade County News Reporter! The deadline is set! And ninety-three Grade 12 Reporters from Chinooks Edge will be submitting their Articles to the County News, in competition for $3600 in Bursaries! The 3 goals of the initiative were achieved: 1) introducing the next Grade 12 work force to opportunities in the Western Canada, Ag Industry, 2) to introduce employers to the upcoming work force, and 3) to create awareness and appreciation of Ag in the Urban, Rural, and Academic settings. Look for the winners’ stories in the January, February and March County News!

Chinooks Edge Grade 12 Agri- Trade Reporters pick-up their Press Passes at the Red Deer County Booth (Agri- Trade Nov 5/2014)

www.CrossRoadsChurch.ca SW Corner of 32 Street & Hwy 2 38105 Rge Rd 275, Red Deer County Join us... Sundays at 9:00am, 11:00am and 6:30pm (403) 347-6425 with CrossRoads Kids (infant to grade 6) THERE’S A PLACE FOR YOU HERE!

75913B7-L5 Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 14

Red Deer West 4-H Beef Club Kicks Off Their 2014/2015 Club Year By: Parker Depalme and Kyle Belich (Club Reporters)

Red Deer West 4-H Beef Club kicked off the on November 1 at Burnt Lake Auction Mart. 2014/2015 club year with our organizational Thank you to Mel Glencross for the use of the meeting on October 20 at Ridgewood Hall. We auction mart and Dennis Magill for running voted for our new executive board; President: the weigh scale for us. We weighed in 24 Shannon Bickley, Vice-President: Jenaya Moore, market steers and 10 carcass steers. Female Secretary: Courtney Armitage, Treasurer: Reid projects this year are 9 heifers and 12 cow/ Depalme, Club Reporters: Kyle Belich and Parker calf pairs. Depalme, Historians: Paulina Wolswinkel, Jayden Our first club activity will be on Dec 8 at Bickley and Emilee Bickley, Parliamentarian: Wacey Lazer Force with our Chinese gift exchange A huge thank you goes to all of our sponsors and Townsend, and General Leader: Dana Depalme. and potluck supper. Then our club will be getting supporters. Our club has many great opportunities This year we have 24 members in our club and prepared for Public Speaking and Presentations in with your support. We are looking forward to six of those are new to beef 4-H. We had weigh-in February. another great year of 4-H. Create a HEALTH & SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM for your Farm Register for Red Deer County’s FarmSafe Plan Workshop today!y! Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD) is now workers, visitors and contractors. purposes. taking registrations for volunteers in the second pilot for The Alberta FarmSafe Plan manual is organized to lead Trained FarmSafe Advisors the recently developed Alberta FarmSafe Plan. The pilot is you through eight important elements of a personal safety will be available to support scheduled to run this fall and winter. plan: you through the process The Alberta FarmSafe Plan is a dynamic tool that will help • Management Leadership and Organizational of implementing your farmers develop a complete health and safety management Commitment plan as required. If you system tailored to their operation. The plan was created in • Hazard Identification and Assessment are interested in funding partnership with ARD, Alberta Jobs, Skills, Training and • Hazard Control for on-farm management Labour and the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association. • Ongoing Inspections coaching or skills training The first pilot was tested in 2013/14 with a group of nine • Qualifications, Orientation and Training related to farm safety, farmers who offered suggestions on practical changes and • Emergency Response you can go to the Growing additions. The changes have been made and we are now • Incident Investigation Forward 2 website at www. testing the updated version. Program Administration growingforward.alberta.ca. Register for the Alberta FarmSafe Plan and help develop The Alberta FarmSafe Plan has been developed to comply There you will learn about a health and safety system that works for Alberta farmers. with the Government of Alberta’s Certificate of Recognition the Business Opportunity How the Alberta FarmSafe Plan works... (COR). Becoming COR certified signifies that your Program and the Business The Alberta FarmSafe Plan will provide you with a step- business has an effective health and safety management Skills Management Program. by-step process to develop a health and safety system for system in place. This designation also makes your The Alberta FarmSafe Plan your farm business. You business eligible for Workers’ Compensation Board Workshop for Red Deer is will attend workshops (WCB) rebates. scheduled for January 29 and to learn how to identify A commitment to the pilot February 5. the hazards specific to program will involve two To register for a workshop your farm and how to days of workshops led by contact: take steps to eliminate a FarmSafe Advisor. During Lindsay Rodriguez or control those hazards. this pilot the workshop, Email: lindsay.rodriguez@ You will understand along with all resource gov.ab.ca the importance of material, is provided free of Phone: 780.427.4187 having a safety policy charge by ARD in exchange For information on the Alberta FarmSafe Plan contact: and following through for feedback on the program Laurel Aitken with training and over a two-year period for Email: [email protected] communication to all evaluation and improvement Phone: 780.980.4230 Scholarship Offering Dr. Don Church is offering a $2000.00 scholarship to Red Deer County students who choose to pursue a career in Agriculture or Veterinary Medicine. The scholarship will be payable to the University College of your choice for your tuition, once your university college acceptance and registration has been con- firmed. Please forward applications before June 30, 2015. Make application with resume, academic status, student ID, and community achievements. Apply to Red Deer & District Community Foundation at 403.341.6911 or [email protected] or Dr. Don Church at 403.340.2092 or [email protected]

Booked in November Peas +$.05 & December .55/bus* GET YOUR Separations -$.10 Booked in January SAMPLES IN & February .60/bus* NOW Non-members +$.05 BOOK Booked in March TO BE TESTED Slow lots $125/hr & April .65/bus* BEFORE THE Memberships $50 Booked in May .70/bus* RUSH Seed must be tested for Fusarium before it can be brought into the EARLY*Must clean seed on fi rst call for IS HERE! Plant cleaning or discount does not apply 5115 - 47 Avenue, Innisfail AGM December 18th - 1:30 p.m. at the Seed Plant 403-227-3400 78081L5 Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 15

FIRST Conservation Partners Corporate “Donor Partner” Tagish Engineering Ltd.

By Ken Lewis, Conservation Coordinator

Tagish Engineering Ltd., has recently decided County landowners are doing to benefit the to become the first private business to environment. Conservation Partners is a great contribute funding to Red Deer County’s way for us to support even more landowners, Conservation Partners initiative. to do even more on their lands.” In making their donation, Tagish Enginee ring Tagish Engineering Ltd. is based in Red Deer, Ltd. demonstrated their support for on-the- and has been providing civil engineering ground environmental stewardship actions, services to Central Alberta since 1983. Their by Red Deer County landowners. current staff have a combined experience 100% of the donation made by Tagish of over 150 years of direct experience in Engineering Ltd. will go to on-the-ground municipal, environmental, water and land projects on farms and ranches. The company development engineering services. More chose to direct half of their donation to tree information can be found at www.tagish- planting projects, and half their donation to engineering.com projects that will help conserve water quality. To find out more about Conservation Partners, Says Greg Smith, a partner with Tagish: “Our visit www.rdcounty.ca/207/Conservation company does a lot of work in Red Deer or contact Ken Lewis at 403.342.8653 or County. We see some of the things that [email protected]

Experience a Country Christmas!

II GiftGiftware & ChChristmas i t DDecor CraftC ft&M & Marketk tD Dates t IFrench Cut & Artifi cial Christmas Trees Dec. 6, 13 The Specialists IFresh Greens & Poinsettias 10:00 am - 4:00 pm 3 minutes East of 30 Avenue on Hwy. 11 Open 7 Days a Week! IOver 15 Designer Please bring a donation for the Red Deer Food Bank Call or check out our website for Seasonal Hours! Themed Christmas Trees Check out our website for our Ice Sculpture viewing - mid December IFashion & Accessories Christmas course listing! (depending on weather)

403-346-5613 76991K7 Seeing is Believing! www.parklandgarden.ca “back to the roots” @ParklandGarden Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 16

THE AG PROGRAM ADVANTAGE Environmental Farm Planning At Your Kitchen Table Gets You Eligible For 2014 Agri-Trade Grants Door Prize Winners

Many farmers and ranchers have done Environmental done at your convenience. Red Deer County would like to thank all Farm Plans for their farms. An Environmental Farm Plan, An EFP provides invaluable information for you and your that entered our door prize draws, and or “EFP” is a confidential self-assessment that you do for farm management. It also makes you eligible to apply for took the time to complete our resident your farm, who you look at the environmental risks on certain Growing Forward 2 funding programs…in either survey. The survey results will give your farm. Then, you write out what you are already case, it could be worth thousands of dollars for your farm us valuable information to better our doing to address those risks, or what you could do in the business. programs into the future. future to address those risks. To find out more, contact Ken at 403.342.8653 or klewis@ It is now even easier to complete your EFP. You can rdcounty.ca complete an on-line version or a paper version, but it’s all Resident Survey Winner Back Pack Sprayer Andy Belich Growing Forward 2 Door Prize Winners Growing Forward 2 is the latest round of Agriculture Management and On-Farm Stewardship programs, contact Leather RDC Satchel programs from the Provincial and Federal Governments. Ken at 403.342.8653 or [email protected] Keith Hehr (Grand Prize) There are many programs under Growing RDC Back Pack Forward 2, for farms, ranches, and other Cassidy Fegan agriculture businesses. The programs cover virtually all aspects of your operation RDC Back Pack or business. Nikki Szakaly Red Deer County’s Conservation RDC Back Pack Coordinator is available to help landowners Trevor Johanson access the Growing Forward 2 programs that relate to environmental stewardship, RDC Hat including the On-Farm Water Management Theresa Johnson and On-Farm Stewardship programs. RDC Hat These programs provide funding to farmers Randy Radau and ranchers who are doing things like riparian fencing, installing double-walled RDC Hat fuel tanks, constructing new water wells or Terrance McBride dugouts, and much more. RDC drink bottle For information about Growing Forward Christine Martin 2, visit www.growingforward.alberta.ca or call the Ag Info Centre (toll free) at RDC drink bottle 403.310.3276. For help in accessing Yvonne Mills the Growing Forward 2 On-Farm Water Tire Pressure Gauge Janis Martin AGRICULTURAL SERVICES AND PROGRAMS FOR RED DEER COUNTY LANDOWNERS Tire Pressure Gauge 403.350.2163 – www.rdcounty.ca Doug Buechler ERADICABLE WEEDS PROGRAM FENCE LINE WEED CONTROL RDC Water Bottle Landowner pays for cost of herbicide (if used), County covers labour County will apply herbicide on a cost-sharing basis with the adjacent and disposal. landowner. Bill Davis CONSERVATION PARTNERS AND ALUS AG TRAINING INCENTIVE RDC Water Bottle Care. Connect. Conserve. Local on-the-ground projects like water Up to $200 to cover 50% of the registration costs of any Ag related quality enhancement, fish and wildlife habitat conservation, and tree- courses taken by County Residents. Kali Leszynski planting. SAFETY TRAINING INCENTIVE RDC Water Bottle SAFE WATER WELL INITIATIVE Up to $200 to cover 50% of the registration costs of any CSA or ASA Up to $1000 to help plug abandoned and unused water wells. certified training courses taken by County Residents. certified training Brad Dallas courses taken by County Residents.

Lousana Specializing in: Agricultural, Water Wells (1987) Ltd. Light Industrial, “Well! That’s Our Business” WATER WELL DRILLING, Commercial & PUMP & WATER TESTING, Complete Water Well Drilling & Servicing Real Estate WELL SHOCKING,... for Acreages PRE-DRILL & Farms FOR PILES • Specializing in Farm & Acreage Water Wells ....for domestic, industrial & oilfi eld • Pump Installation & Repairs Auctions • Modern Mobile Pump Hoisting Equipment Ph: 403-885-5149 24 Hour Service • Water Well Testing & Monitoring • SECOR Certifi ed • Free Estimates Don Montgomery - I.C.C.A. Cell: 403-350-0523 BENTLEY 403-748-2955 Delburne: 403-749-2242 Red Deer: 403-340-8185 Auctioneering & Sales Management Fax: 403-885-2520 RED DEER 403-343-6266 Box 88, , AB T0M 1K0 74348A3-L5 Box 939, FREE ESTIMATES Miles Lewis Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.montgomeryauctions.com Blackfalds, AB Fax: 403-748-3015 l PO Box 700, Bentley, AB T0C 0J0 Celebrating 50 Years of Trusted Service T0M 0J0 www.tallpinedrilling.com Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 17

Recreation and Culture Boards

DIVISION 1 Yoga at Ridgewood Hall – Wednesdays at 7:15 PM, September 24 leadership training related to recreation and culture. Applicants are www.div1rec-culture.com to December 17. $30 or $4 drop-in fee. Call Linda, 403.347.3860. required to make a short presentation to outline their application and Unified Taekwon-Do - Classes start Movie Tickets for Carnival Theatre – Limited number available. answer questions, and will be given a presentation time slot previous September 8, 2014. All ages welcome. Contact Tara, 403.886.5535. to the review meeting. For further information or questions, please call Mondays and Thursdays from 6:30 PM to Swimming at Collicutt Centre – Vouchers available. Contact Tara, 403.728.3930 or 403.728.3294. 8:30 PM at Glenellen Hall, near Pine Lake. 403.886.5535. Application Deadline - January 31, 2015 Cost: $50/month club fee, plus $30 UTKD Rebels Hockey Tickets – Available for January 30, February 27, Review Meeting - February 11, 2015, Spruce View School, 7:00 PM. annual fee. Ask about Family Discounts! March 21. Cost is $5. Contact Tara, 403.886.5535. Annual Meeting - March 11, 2015, Spruce View School, 7:00 PM. Register during class times or call for an Individuals/Families of Division 3 are welcome to apply for 50% Family Reimbursement Program provides up to $100 per family appointment. Instructor: Mr. Lorne Cole, 2nd Dan Black Belt. Call Mr. of funding for recreational or cultural activities to a maximum of $100 per year to help defray the costs of authorized, participatory recreational Lorne Cole at 403.896.9835 per person per year. Funding reimbursement for current year only, and cultural activities. For more information and applications see our Sew and So’s meet to quilt first Tuesday of every month, from 9:00 is limited. (once budget is reached, no more reimbursement will be County website. AM to 4:00 PM, Valley Centre Community Hall. Call Donna Reay, available). Copies of receipts must be supplied. Please send receipts to Thank You - We extend our thanks to all participants for their many 403.347.7198. Box 349, Penhold, AB T0M 1R0. Guidelines available online. volunteer hours to provide recreational and cultural activities for Ski Program at Canyon Ski Hill – For details, contact Tara Byrtus, The Board welcomes ideas for new recreational and cultural residents of Division 5. 403.886.8696 or check the website. opportunities. DIVISION 6 DIVISION 2 New Board Members Welcome. Contact Linda, 403.347.3860 or www.div6rec-culture.com www.div2rec-culture.com [email protected] or Tara at [email protected] Contact [email protected] to receive Emails, updates, changes Annual Balmoral Turkey Christmas Supper at Balmoral Hall, DIVISION 4 of events. Sunday, December 7. For upcoming event notification, email [email protected] New Members Always Welcome - email division6board@hotmail. Ski Program at Canyon Ski Hill – Friday nights, from January 9 Facebook: Red Deer County Division 4 Recreation and Culture Board ca or call Sherry at 403.314.5372 if interested. to March 13. For details, contact Ingrid at 403.347.7923 or check the Cottonwood Cougars Junior Forest Wardens – Second and New Division 6 Website is available. Check www.div6rec-culture. website. fourth Mondays each month, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, ages 6 to 18. com for the latest updates. Division 2 Needs Directors, one from every district. We also need a Contact Linda Toews at 403.224.2881 or cottonwoodcougars@gmail. Linn Valley Christmas Cookie Exchange - December 6, 6:00 PM, President, Secretary, and Volunteer Event Organizers. com Pre-registration only. Contact Alaina 403.391.8300 Have You Applied for your Family Personal Activities New ideas/funding applications welcome: Linn Valley Carol’s Caroling Party - December 6, 7:00 PM, Grant? - Each family member is eligible for a rebate of 50% of the fees Colin Smith, President, 403.505.2204 [email protected] Contact Carol 403.506.9943 for approved activities to a maximum of $100 per year. Receipts are Linda Toews, Vice-President, 403.224.2882 [email protected] Free Family Swim - December 13, 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Sylvan Lake required – forms available from the website or County office. For more Debbie Matthie, Treasurer, 403.227.3051 [email protected] Aquatic Centre information: [email protected] Alahna Hunter, Secretary, 403.224.2912 [email protected] Linn Valley Children’s Christmas Party - December 21, 2:00 PM DIVISION 3 Dan Sunstrum, 403.350.5964, [email protected] to 4:00 PM, Contact Carol 403.506.9943 www.Div3Rec-Culture.com DIVISION 5 Purchase Canyon Ski Gift Cards - January 5, 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM, Antler Hill Hall Ongoing Activities include Yoga (contact is Lynn www.div5rec-culture.com Poplar Ridge Hall Breen, 403.886.0003) and Kids Connection (contact is Julia Valance, 2015 Grants – Now accepting applications from individuals or New Members Always Welcome - email division6board@hotmail. 403.886.5939) or check the website. groups for 2015 funding. Applications are available on our website or ca or call Sherry at 403.314.5372 if interested. Springbrook Archery Club – For all ages. Contact Donna, via email at [email protected]. We fund recreational programs, New Division 6 Website is up and running. Keep checking www. 403.573.4451 for more information. cultural programs, community development, special events, and div6rec-culture.com for the latest updates.

FCSS is a program between the SPRINGBROOK FCSS province and local municipalities To register or for Information on any Springbrook FCSS with the objective of building strong program call Adrian at 403.350.9533 or search Springbrook COMMUNITY communities through prevention, FCSS on Facebook. self help and volunteerism. Springbrook Archery Club - Archery club is open regular ENGAGEMENT SITES hours through to Christmas, Thursday all ages 6:30 PM to 8:30 BOWDEN FCSS PM and Saturdays all ages from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Fun Olde Library, Community Resource Centre and Bowden FCSS Fridays Family shoot takes place Fridays from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, (CES) Contact info for Corrie Monk, Family and Community Support The club is located downstairs through the south entrance of the Services: Phone: 403.224.2207, email: [email protected], Springbrook Multiplex. 2015 memberships now available. and Facebook: Fcss Bowden Springbrook Healthy Living Team- To get involved with the Spruce View Community Engagement Site Silent Santa Application Forms are available at the Town, Healthy Living team or the Community Welcomers program for Located at Spruce View School FCSS, and Family School Wellness Offices for families and individuals Springbrook call Adrian at 403.350.9533. December meeting is 6:30 needing a little support this holiday season. Call 403.224.2207 for PM on December 16 at the Springbrook Fire Hall. Box 130 Spruce View, AB T0M 1V0 more information. Springbrook Playgroup - Playgroup for children 5 and under Carrie Koster – VC Coordinator Bowden FCSS wishes one and all a safe, peaceful, and runs every Monday from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM in Building 14 on Phone: 403.227.7875 (rings in Spruce View) joyous New Year! the corner of 34 Ave and 24 Street. This is open to everyone from Springbrook and surrounding communities. Email: [email protected] DELBURNE FCSS Springbrook Community Skatepark Committee is looking www.spruceviewces.com Nora Smith, Delburne FCSS Community Worker for new members to get involved. People with fundraising experience Phone: 403.749.3654 an asset but not necessary. A desire to improve our community is a www.belongingexposed.blogspot.ca must! Meetings are first Wednesday of the month at the Springbrook Bowden Community Engagement Site ELNORA FCSS Fire Hall. Located at Bowden Grandview School, Call For information on any Elnora FCSS program, please call Sheila WEST COUNTY FCSS 403.227.2866 Gongaware, 403.773.3920 or [email protected] Check out the New FCSS Board at Spruce View School in the PENHOLD FCSS front entry. You can find community directories, FCSS brochures, Innisfail Hall Learning Centre and Community Playgroup - Wednesdays at Penhold Memorial Hall (1123 Fleming and information about upcoming FCSS events and programs in Engagement Site Ave.) from 9:15 AM to 11:15 AM, Drop in fee of $2, and $1 every our area. You can email or phone me for information or referrals at 403.505.9091 or [email protected] Located at the Innisfail Library/Learning Centre, additional child, babies are free. This program for ages 0-4, a safe, Community Welcomers Program fun environment for your child to learn socialization through play. - If you are a local business 403.227.2866. Call to receive monthly newsletter. Call or email Jennifer Blaylock for more info, 403.886.4567 or fcss@ and would like to advertise your information in the Community Welcomers Program package, please drop off your business card at the townofpenhold.ca Sylvan Lake Community Engagement Site Free Skate at Penhold Regional Multiplex – Every Sunday until Spruce View Library or email or information to [email protected] spring from 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM. Thank you to our anonymous C.H.I.P.S Program every Thursday at Spruce View Hall, from 10:00 Located at HJ Cody High School, Call 403.227.2866 community-minded donor! AM to 12:00 Noon. For more information, contact Pam Hetu, 403.505.9091 or [email protected]

Farm • Acreage • New Homes One Block West Of Superstore Red Deer, AB Bob Gummow Cell: 1-403-598-7913 Bus: 403-343-6623 Royal LePage Home Fax: 403-341-4270 Farm, Livestock, Oilfi eld, Commercial, Auto, Home, Network Realty Corp. Farm & Ranch Toll Free: Aircraft #6, 3608 - 50 Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta T4N 3Y6 1-888-884-9948 Direct Line: (403) 755-4864 Memorials 403.343.1672 Great Rates, Great Service 1.800.909.9927

Bus: (403) 346-8900 78072A2 115, 5114 - 58 St., Red Deer, AB [email protected] www.wallahsigns.com [email protected] • www.royallepagenetwork.ca [email protected] 76599F7-E2 76280L5 Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 18

TRANSIT NOTICE December 2014 and January 2015

Wednesday, December 24, 2014 Saturday, December 27, 2014 Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Last departure from City Centre terminal is at Regular Saturday transit service hours. Customer Regular weekday transit service hours 6:15 PM. Last departure from Bower Mall for service and phone lines are closed. Thursday, January 1, 2015 Route 12A is 5:00 PM (this allows passengers Sunday, December 28, 2014 NO TRANSIT SERVICE. Transit Customer to transfer to Route 1 in time to make it to City Regular Sunday Transit service hours. Route 12 Service and Phone lines are closed. Centre for the last buses out of the terminal). and 12A operates on a regular Sunday schedule. Action Bus Phone lines will be closed and NO Thursday, December 25, 2014 Transit Customer Service and Phone lines are Action Bus service will be provided. NO TRANSIT SERVICE. Transit Customer closed. Friday, January 2, 2015 Service and Phone lines are closed. Action Bus Phone lines will be closed and limited Regular weekday transit service hours. Action Bus Phone lines will be closed and limited pre-booked service will be provided. Transit information is available on-line at pre-booked service will be provided. No County Monday, December 29, 2014 www.reddeer.ca/transit Action Bus Service. Regular weekday transit Friday, December 26, 2014 service hours Transit service will operate on Sunday / Holiday Tuesday, December 30, hours. No service on Route 12 / 12A. Transit 2014 Customer Service and Phone lines are closed. Regular weekday transit Action Bus Phone lines will be closed and limited service hours pre-booked service will be provided. No County Action Bus Service. Parkland Regional Libraries

BOWDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY INNISFAIL PUBLIC LIBRARY SEEDS - Pre-school program. Friday mornings at 9:15 AM or www.bowdenlibrary.prl.ab.ca www.ipl.prl.ab.ca 11:00 AM or 1:00 PM. January 16 to March 6. Call to register. 2101 - 20 Avenue 403.227.4407 Technology Questions? - iPod, iPad, e-Reader, Computer. 403.224.3688 Registration for all programs is required. One-on-one instruction, available Tuesday’s and Thursday’s 10:00 [email protected] Join us for Teddy AM to 5:00 PM. Tuesday - Thursday: Noon - 8:00 PM Bear Christmas at SYLVAN LAKE MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 6:00 PM on Tuesday, www.sylvanlibrary.prl.ab.ca Literary Backpacks – A variety of titles and activities to December 9. For 4715 – 50 Avenue, Sylvan Lake, AB introduce your preschooler to the wonderful world of books. ages up to 17 years. 403.887.2130 Movie Nights at the Library – Check at the Library, website Bring your teddy Infant Sensory Play Time - Explore the world of sight, sound, and Facebook for upcoming dates. bears. Refreshments touch, taste, and smell at the Library! Intended for Moms and/ Ongoing Events: and treats for all. or Dads with children 1 or under. Thursdays from 11:30 AM to Pennies for Programs – We accept pennies and any coins to Pre-School Programs – Mondays: ABC & 123 at 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM. Free, registration required. fund programs. All contributions welcome. Rhythm & Rhyme at 11:00 AM. StoryTime: Wednesday and Tales for Toddlers – “Mommy-and-Me” or “Daddy-and-Me” Bottle Donations - Bottle donations accepted at the Library Fridays at 10:00 AM. Break for holidays December 22 to January story time in the Children’s Library. Wednesdays from 10:30 AM or take directly to the Olds Bottle Depot and put in the Bowden 4. to 11:00 AM. Songs, puppet play, nursery rhymes for children 2 Library Box. Children’s Programs - Science Saturdays: 11:00 AM on and under. Free, registration required. Wish List – Volunteers, New computer chairs, Cash donations, December 13. Crafty Kids: 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 20. G.A.S.P. - After school program for ages 7-12. Thursdays during Small rectangular table (2-3 feet high). Thank you for your Magic Bus Book Club: 1:00 PM on Saturday, December 27. the school year from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Free, registration contributions! Youth Programs - Art Club: 6:00 PM on Thursday, December required. There will be no G.A.S.P. during Christmas ELNORA PUBLIC LIBRARY 11. Minecraft: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Mondays, December 22 break. & 29. Gamers UNITE: Saturdays at 11:00 AM (except December www.elnoralibrary.prl.ab.ca Teen Time - After school program for ages 13-18. Fridays during 27). Open Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM the school year from 3:30 PM to 4:45 PM. Free, registration Adult Programs - Scrabble: 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Fridays. Open Tuesdays and Fridays from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM required. There will be no Teen Time during Christmas Evening Book & Afternoon Book Clubs, Armchair Travel & break. Do the winter blues have you Writing Group resume in January 2015. Art Attack - First Tuesday of every month. 5:30 PM to 7:00 down? Come to the library Christmas Schedule – Closed December 24 at 2:00 PM until PM. December’s Art Attack will be recycled book art. Registration and Jessica will help you with December 27 at 10:00 AM. Closed December 31 at 2:00 PM until required for this free, adults-only program. anything computer. She will January 2 at 10:00 AM. Mystery Book Club - Tuesday, December 9, 7:00 PM to 8:00 be here for a few months this StemPENHOLD cross §ion DISTRICT LIBRARY PM. December’s selection will be “Breakdown” by Sarah Paretsky. winter. www.penholdlibrary.prl.ab.ca Pick up your copy at the Library! Free, drop-in. Specialty Bookmarks – Read-alike 403.886.2636 One-on-One Computer Assistance - 30 minutes to 1 hour suggestions for other authors who write Reader’s Corner - First Wednesday of every month at 1:00 sessions with Corrie. Please call or come to the Library to make like your favourites and bookmarks PM. December 3: read “The Giver” by Lois Lowry. January 7: your free appointment. with genre suggestions. read “The Cellist of Sarajevo” by Steven Galloway. Conversation! Sylvan Lake Book Club - Fourth Wednesday of every month. Volunteers Please! – We are fun to be around! Friendship! Community! Book Club! 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Newcomers welcome! Actively Seeking Board Members Story and Gym Tyme - Thursday mornings. Gym at 10:00 AM ($2.00/child), Stories at 11:00 AM.

Willow Valley Presbyterian 26016 - Hwy 595 (Delburne Road) Church Services Every Sunday 10:00 a.m. 1st Sunday of the month: Fred Lane 2nd Sunday: Cowboy Church + Hymns & Music by the Potters & Purdies 3rd Sunday: Rev. Reg Graves

4th Sunday: Rev. Bert De bruijn 76286L5 403-350-8628 Everyone Welcome! www.jimsseptic.ca [email protected] 6 78059C6 78059C Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 19

Red Deer County Grants Over $225,000 For Community Facility Enhancements AtA theh Novemberb 4 CouncilC l meeting, CouncilC l membersb gave unanimous approval to the 2014 Capital Grants program. The program allows for members of the community to apply for funding to enhance buildings that serve a recreational or community function in Red Deer County. In total, 20 different groups got approval for $227,670.00 dollars in funding. The projects funded range from large items such as new roofing to smaller ones, such as new appliances for community halls. This marks the eighth year that Red Deer County has provided capital grants. The funding allows community groups to make important improvements to facilities that serve County residents. According to Community Services Manager Jo-Ann Symington, “This program allows the County to partner with local volunteer community groups, who then provide the labour and skills to upgrade their facilities. It is a truly a win-win situation.” In addition to the Capital Grants program, the County has made several recent one-time grants to community facilities such as community parks and arenas 2014 Capital Assistance Applicant Grants Awarded Cottonwood Gordon Ag. Society (Hall) $25,000.00 Elnora & District Agricultural Society (Hall) $10,000.00 The Hub Centre Community Association $7,263.90 Poplar Ridge Community Center $20,000.00 Ridgewood Community Hall Society $3,350.00 Spruce View Community Association (Hall) $19,063.00 Valley Centre Community Hall $4,200.00 Cumberland Community Hall $6,717.90 Stephannson Icelandic Society (Fensala Hall) $6,700.00 Great Bend Community Centre $13,708.94 Knee Hill Valley Community Centre $12,900.00 Shady Nook Community Hall $1,575.00 Glenellen Community Centre Association $6,440.94 Oklahoma Community Centre $18,950.00 Willowdale Community (1985) Association $3,815.99 Central Community Hall $2,500.00 Collins Community Centre $40,000.00 Little Red Deer Community Hall $10,000.00 Dickson Store Museum $5,894.86 Markerville Community Society $9,599.19

Total All Grant Requests $227,679.72 Red Deer County News DECEMBER 2014 PAGE 20

Winter Maintenance & Snow Removal TOP PRIORITIES 1) Highways There are over 3,000 kilometers of roads in Red Deer County. After a heavy 2) Industrial Areas / Subdivisions snowfall or strong winds, all of these roads require clearing. It is important to have a plan to ensure plowing is effi cient and fair. Red Deer County’s road maintenance contractor utilizes twelve plow trucks and a grader for snow removal on our hard surfaced roads. This includes the snow removal for subdivisions and hamlets throughout the County. Above all – rest assured that the County puts a high priority on getting out there to clear your road! Learn more about road clearing below, and check our County road updates on Twitter and Facebook.

Where / When Do The Plows Start? Generally, it takes 40 hours per round and one day for The County follows a protocol when dealing with Naturally everyone wants to be fi rst when the clearing cleanup. On average, about 2,500 equipment hours emergency situations. Should there be a need to begins. To make things fair – there is a different start are spent yearly on sanding and plowing, with 4,500 send assistance to clear your road and get you out – and end point every time. This way, no one is always metric tonnes of sand and salt being used on County this call is made by emergency responders and the fi rst, and no one is always last on the route. There are roads and 21,000 hours of grader time on gravel road County will do its part. a total of 13 grader routes in the County that each maintenance. The County will bring in extra help if What If I Need To Get To Town And The cover 200 kilometers of roads. it is required. Roads Are Impassable? During a winter storm, plows, graders and operators Will The County Send A Plow To Your Road If you have a medical condition or if you have a job get ready for action – but – no plowing starts until the If You Call To Ask? where you are required to get to town every day – storm event STOPS. It’s better to wait until the plowing The answer is – no. Just imagine how much time and please plan ahead for unexpected bad weather. will be effective, even though it’s understandable that money could be spent by sending plows off the route Listen to the weather forecast and make your plans everyone wishes it could start sooner. Starting sooner to respond to every plea from a resident or business. accordingly. Most rural residents know that when is not always better, there are temperatures and times The best thing to do is let plows and graders stick they choose to live in the country, getting snowed in where plowing is simply not effective. to their route. The priority is to clear the County’s can happen. Any and all roads can become impassable Timing can be severely affected by the amount of road network as effi ciently and quickly as possible, with extreme weather and it’s important to have food snow, temperature, continuing bad weather such as followed by general cleanup. and supplies to last for several days during a bad wind causing drifts or by poor visibility. If the visibility If you are truly experiencing a medical emergency storm. means motorists and plow or grader operators can’t situation – don’t call the County – please call 911. Are Bus Routes Plowed First? see each other, plowing will be delayed until the Some people think that the schedule is set by school visibility improves, for everyone’s safety on the road. bus-routes, however, school buses travel on so many Once the plowing rotations begin, plows won’t return miles of roads that it is impossible to assign a priority to a road until the entire rotation is complete. to one bus route over another. After a signifi cant snow How Long Will It Take To Clear The Roads fall, school buses and other types of vehicles may not After A Snowstorm? be able to travel during these times and will also have This varies. If there is a lot of snow, or if the snow to wait for plowing to be completed. is heavy and moist, or if there is a strong wind, it can take longer to move the snow and fi ght drifts and can take several days to complete road clearing.

For road and weather conditions, please search: - Alberta Roads Report www.511.alberta.ca - Environment Canada Weather Reports For More Information: Web: www.rdcounty.ca Twitter: www.twitter.com/reddeercounty Youtube: www.youtube.com/rdcounty Facebook: www.facebook.com/reddeercounty Ph: 403.350.2150 Fax: 403.346.9840 Email: [email protected]