We would like to thank you for coming to Leduc Radio. Unfortunately we need to take the time to do a little maintenance and this is probably the best time to do over the long weekend.

For our reguarly scheduled programs, click on the links below....

LA Intertactive with Dave MacKenzie (click here)

OTTAWA - Barbecue season has begun and Health Canada would like to remind Canadians of steps they can take to avoid foodborne illness caused by bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter.

Eating undercooked meat and other foods that have come into contact with raw meat can cause foodborne illness. Symptoms can include severe stomach cramps, vomiting, fever and diarrhea.

You can help lower your risk of foodborne illness by handling and cooking raw meat carefully.

Storing:

• Raw meat should always be stored in a refrigerator or cooler at 4ºC (40ºF) or below.
• If you are storing raw meat in a cooler, make sure that it is packed with ice and that it stays out of direct sunlight. Avoid opening it too often.
• Ensure meat products are well sealed so their juices don't come in contact with other food products, thus avoiding cross-contamination.

Clean:

• Remember to wash your hands and other utensils, like cutting boards, countertops and knives, carefully with soap and warm water before and after handling raw meat. This helps to avoid cross-contamination and prevent the spread of foodborne illness.

When you grill:

• Colour alone is not a reliable indicator that meat is safe to eat. Meat can turn brown before all bacteria are killed. Use a digital food thermometer to be sure.
• To check the temperature of meat that you are cooking on the barbecue, take it off the grill and insert a digital food thermometer through the thickest part of the meat.
• If you are cooking a beef hamburger, take the patty from the grill and insert a digital food thermometer through its side, all the way to the middle.
• If you are cooking more than one patty, or several pieces of meat, be sure to check the temperature of each piece.
• Use clean utensils and plates when removing cooked meats from the grill.
• Remember to wash the thermometer in hot, soapy water between temperature readings.
• Always remember to keep hot food hot until it is ready to serve.

It is estimated that there are approximately 11 million cases of food-related illness in Canada every year. Many of these cases could be prevented by following proper food handling and preparation techniques.

For more information on food safety tips while barbecuing, please visit:

Government of Canada's Barbecuing Food Safety Tips

Government of Canada's Food Safety Portal

Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education's Be Food Safe Canada Campaign

It's Your Health on Summer Food Safety

It's Your Health on How to Avoid Illness from Hamburgers

The City of Leduc is pleased to help celebrate Canadian Tire's Jumpstart Day, May 26, 2012, in support of the local chapter that has helped more than 100 children and youth since its launch in 2010.

      WHAT: Canadian Tire Jumpstart Day

      WHEN: May 26, 2012

      WHERE: Canadian Tire Leduc (5402 Discovery Way) Community Barbecue 11:00am - 3:00pm

"All proceeds and donations collected at Leduc's Canadian Tire and Mark's Work Warehouse stores will go directly to Leduc's Jumpstart program," says Cristal Bole, manager of community development and service planning with the City of Leduc. "Jumpstart Day is an opportunity for everyone in our community to be a part of something amazing - helping kids in our community get involved in sports and recreation."

The Leduc chapter began in 2010, and connected more than 80 children and youth in 2011 with community athletic and recreation programming. Championed by local store owner Steve Laurion, the local chapter now  includes representation from; Black Gold Regional Schools, St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Schools, Boys and Girls Club of Leduc, Leduc and District Food Bank, minor sporting associations, city administration and Canadian Tire staff.

Leduc's Jumpstart Chapter is under the umbrella of Everybody gets to play, which is a national initiative to enhance the quality of life for families by increasing access and participation in recreation, athletic and cultural opportunities. Jumpstart is a community-based charitable program helping children and youth. ages four to 18, develop important life skills, self-esteem and confidence.

In 2011, Leduc city council proclaimed the last Saturday of May as Canadian Tire Jumpstart Day in Leduc to coincide with National Jumpstart Day.

For more information on the program, visit www.canadiantire.ca/jumpstart, call toll free at 1-877-616-6600.

Our Home To Yours is a new business in Leduc that will be holding thier first trade show on June 9, 2012 at the Day's Inn from 10:00 - 5:00pm.

If you would like to listen to the interview with the owner,  Jennifer Zimmer and Sharon K. with Leduc Radio please click on the following link.

Interview Part 1

Interview Part  2

Also, here the current advertisement that we are running. click here  

Beaumont, AB – Construction on 50 Street will begin this month, weather depending. The work will result in the final widening of the section of roadway from Township Road 510 north to 41 Avenue (City of Edmonton boundary) (Zone 4) as well as street improvements from Township Road 510 to south of 55 Avenue (KNRRC) (Zone 3), and Highway 625 north to 49 Avenue (Zone 1).

Preparations are currently being made to begin construction. Part of these preparations include the transplanting of 13 trees from the front of the KNRRC to Parc Juneau Park (4001 50 Street, see pictures attached).

 “The improvements along 50 Street will benefit the residents of Beaumont and the Capital region greatly, with enhanced safety and traffic flow,” says Mayor Camille Bérubé. “We are looking forward to the improved roadway and once the work is completed the Town commits to completing the new landscaping.”

Below is some information on the construction of each section of 50 Street:

50 Street—Widening—Township Road 510 to 41 Avenue (Zone 4)

When: May through August 2012

Impact: The speed limit has been reduced to 50 km/h, within the divided section. For periods of time, traffic will be reduced to one lane, in each direction. Service road access will be maintained.

A road closure for Township Road 510 west of 50 Street for 150 meters is anticipated to occur from May 28 to June 6. Detours will be posted.

Construction Activities: Service road work, traffic signals at Twp. Rd. 510 and 50 St., final overlay completed, and line painting.

Landscaping: As part of the construction process, topsoil and seeding will occur in the road right-of-way.

Result: Four lane roadway with wider shoulders, and proper traffic signals.

50 Street—Street Improvement — Township Road 510 to south of 55 Avenue (KNRRC) (Zone 3)

When: May through October 2012

Impact: For periods of time lane limitations will occur, expect minor delays.

Construction Activities: Paving, traffic signal improvements, storm pond construction, underground utility, intersection improvements (Coloniale Way/Rue Montalet and 50 Street), turning lanes, and landscaping to be re-done.

Traffic signal upgrades at 55 Avenue and 50 Street, as well as signal installation between Sobeys and the Tim Hortons intersection. The pedestrian signal at the old Sobeys location will be moved to the new Sobeys location.

Landscaping: The Parc Coloniale Park playground structure will be reinstalled on the east side of the multiuse trail, by the end of May. Trees will be installed around the playground.

As part of the construction process, some landscaping changes will be required.
Result: Median improvements for visibility, safety, and adequate turning as well as traffic signal upgrades and turning lanes.
 

50 Street—Street Improvement —Highway 625 to 49 Avenue (Zone 1)

When: July through October 2012

Impact: Minor delays with possible detours and flag people during some construction phases.

Construction Activities: Paving, roadwork, traffic signal improvements, storm pond modifications, underground utility, intersection improvements, and landscaping.

Result: Four lane roadway with proper turning lanes.

Information on the 50 Street construction projects, and other construction projects, can be found on the interactive map on the Town of Beaumont’s website www.beaumont.ab.ca.

The City of Leduc and Leduc Communities in Bloom are pleased to bring back Adopt a Block, a six-week program to engage residents and community groups to help clean and beautify the city.

WHAT: Adopt a Block

WHEN: May 9 – June 20, 2012

WHERE: All neighbourhoods in Leduc

"This program is designed to rouse community spirit and residential pride in anticipation of the official visit from Communities in Bloom judges," says Cristal Bole, manager of community development and service planning with the City of Leduc. "These clean-up efforts are extremely important as we want to put our best foot forward to continue our status of a five-bloom community."

Any individual, family, community group or not-for-profit organization can participate in Adopt a Block. Clean-up kits and an orientation form are available and supplied by the City of Leduc. Clean-up efforts may take place in neighbourhoods, parks, schoolyards or any other part of the community.

The City of Leduc and the Leduc Environmental Advisory Board are celebrating Arbour Day with a community tree planting event.

WHEN: May 12, 2012 (10 a.m. – noon)

WHERE: Deer Valley ravine (access off Grant MacEwan Boulevard)

Barbecue will be provided

"We have 300 small spruce plugs and 400 small shrubs available for planting this weekend," says Kerra Chomlak, environmental sustainability coordinator with the City of Leduc. "Events, such as this, help to restore and enhance urban forestry within our city, which was identified by citizens as a priority throughout consultation efforts for the Environmental Plan – Phase 1."

This event is hosted annually by LEAB encouraging public participation in naturalization efforts and to heighten public awareness on the board’s role in the community. The board’s purpose is to recommend city programs and practices aimed to protect and enhance Leduc’s environment.

In 2011, this event attracted roughly 80 volunteers and planted around 900 seedlings and shrubs over 990 sq. metres on the corner of Highway 2A and 50 Street.

This event will This event will be held rain or shine. Everyone is welcome to attend and participants are asked to bring their own shovels.

The City of Leduc’s annual Junior Links Golf Scholarship Program targets beginner golfers, aged 12 – 15 years, to offer lessons and development with a Canadian Professional Golfers’ Association (CPGA) professional on a nine-hole practice round at the Leduc Golf and Country Club. This year the program will be held May 28, 2012 with a wrap-up event on June 1.

The scholarship has a maximum enrollment of 14 city youth. Potential participants must not be existing golf club members or have participated in the program in previous years.

This scholarship program has a one-time fee of $100 (worth $700), and is subsidized by the municipality. The 2012 program offers:

• Three, 90-minute lessons from a CPGA
• Nine hole wrap-up event
• Golf balls and clubs will be supplied by the Leduc Golf and Country Club
• Participants are eligible for a junior membership at the club
• Participants are expected to submit a letter to the City of Leduc for an opportunity to receive a free golf membership

Registration is required and begins May 8, 2012 at 10 a.m. Space is limited. Registration is first-come, first-serve.

To register or more information, email tstiles@leduc.ca or call 780-980-7177

City of Leduc fire officials and emergency management team have geared up to help raise community awareness on the importance of emergency planning. To recognize National Emergency Preparedness Week (May 6 – 12, 2012), the City of Leduc is hosting a public open-house event at Rona (5205 Discovery Way, Leduc Common), May 9, 2012 (1:30 – 3:30 p.m.).

During the two-hour event, citizens can expect:

• Tours of the Mobile Emergency Operations Centre (MEOC),
• A display of current technologies used to coordinate and respond to major emergencies,
• A raffle for a 72-hour emergency kit,
• Free smoke alarms, and
• City officials available to answer questions.

"Knowing what to do in an emergency is vital," says Deputy Fire Chief Gerry Kelly. "Our goal is to educate citizens on the true value of emergency planning and why households should be prepared for the first 72 hours of any major emergency."

The first 72 hours of an emergency is crucial as it can take up to three days for emergency responders to reach all residents in the midst of dealing with emergency response and addressing the most critically injured. Emergencies include extreme temperatures, fire, flood, hazardous chemical release, natural gas leaks, power outage, storms, water contamination and medical emergencies, such as hypothermia, frostbite and infectious disease. The new online Emergency Preparedness Guide provides detailed information on these emergencies, important next steps, and how to prepare a 72 hour kit. Visit Leduc.ca/emergprep to access the full guide.

"Being prepared in case of an emergency increases personal safety and the safety of family, friends and the entire community," says Kelly. "We’re asking citizens to draft a household emergency plan, share it with loved ones and review it annually."

The Chamber Luncheon brought regional business associations together

A signing ceremony between Thorsby Chamber of Commerce, Devon Chamber of Commerce, Leduc Regional Chamber of Commerce and Beaumont Business Association and a presentation by the Edmonton Eskimos.

Chamber Benefits and Chamber members were also featured.  

Participants:

Leduc, Devon, Thorsby and Devon Chambers of Commerce, Beaumont Business Association, regional dignitaries; Kavis Reed, Head Coach Edmonton Eskimos;

Part 1 (Click Here)

Host - Stephanie Shultz, Executive Director

O'Canada - Alana Gueutal, Vice President Of the Chamber (Minuteman Press)

Prayer - Pastor Grant McDowell, Leduc Alliance Church

Introduction of new members

Sponsor Message - Quantumpro

Official Signing Ceremony

Part 2 (Click Here)

Guest Speaker - Kavis Reed, Head Coach of the Edmonton Eskimos

Chamber Minute - Announcements

                                50/50 Draw & Door Prizes

                                Acknowledgements & Recognitions

The Leduc Regional Chamber of Commerce stands for promoting business; monitoring municipal, provincial and federal governments; and championing managed growth in the local economy.

Leduc’s Enforcement Services will conduct an education campaign this May to mark Young Driver Awareness Month. They will also continue their focus on increasing citizen awareness on the City of Leduc Traffic Bylaw No. 46-1985 relating to unattached trailers and unsightly properties.

"This month our goal is to educate and enforce safe and respectful driving habits of young drivers in the community," says CPO Sgt. Malaine Wark, supervisor for Enforcement Services with the City of Leduc. "We also recognize that warmer weather unveils unsightly debris, and increases the number of trailers and recreation vehicles parked along roadways. Our goal is to work with residents and enforce city bylaws to ensure quality of life is maintained for all citizens."

Young Drivers Awareness Month

For new and young drivers, Wark says experience is key to reacting to emergency situations or bad weather. Young drivers can also be distracted by the excitement of new-found independence. In Alberta, youth 17 or under must have written consent to obtain a driver’s license that parents and/or guardians can revoke at any time. Visit www.saferoads.com/index.html for more information.

Unattached trailers

Trailers must be attached and properly registered/insured at all times when parked on roadways. The city’s traffic bylaw states all trailers, including recreation vehicles (RVs) must be attached to a vehicle. A fine can be issued and/or a trailer can be towed at the owner’s expense if parked illegally.

Unsightly properties

An accumulation of unsightly items, such as garbage or animal feces is more apparent in spring due to melting snow. All unsightly items must be removed and disposed of accordingly. The City of Leduc is hosting its annual Spring Yard-waste Clean-up event, May 1 – June 8, 2012. Larger items, such as unwanted furniture and appliances, can be picked up, May 8 – 11, 2012. For more information specific to the Spring Yard-waste Clean-up, call 780-980-7177.

To see other monthly campaigns click here.

Leduc’s Enforcement Services (Community Peace Officers) is focusing on various safety campaigns this year to raise resident and motorist awareness on a variety of issues relating to the City of Leduc’s Traffic Bylaw. This month’s campaign is about fire access zones, especially parking too close to fire hydrants.

"An important aspect of emergency response is the ability to park large service vehicles, such as fire trucks and ambulances, close to where the emergency is located," says CPO Sgt. Malaine Wark, supervisor for Enforcement Services with the City of Leduc.

This year, Enforcement Services has outlined monthly campaigns to help educate residents and motorists on various municipal bylaws:

January: Snow removal/vehicle parking over limit on roads

February: Business licensing

March: Truck route/dangerous goods route

April: Fire hydrant and emergency access parking

May: Unsightly properties/unattached trailers/RV parking

June: Dog off-leash park usage

July: Parking concerns

August: Misuse of parks

September: Dog off-leash park usage

October: Smoking in Vehicles with Minors

November: Unattached trailers

December: Snow removal from sidewalks

April’s campaign has been targeting vehicles parked within five metres (16 ft.) on either side of a hydrant and vehicles left in designated fire lanes. Fines for these offenses start at $150.

Leduc’s Enforcement Services encourages residents to report any bylaw violations by calling 780-980-7200 (option 5). Callers will be asked to leave the following information:

• License plate number
• Description of the vehicle
• Caller’s name and return number (caller information will be kept confidential)

The Leduc Community Drug Action Committee (LCDAC) will offer a free workshop to help educate human resource professionals, business owners and managers on how to deal with substance abuse in the workplace.

WHAT: Thinking Outside the Cup

WHEN: May 9, 2012 (9 a.m. – 1 p.m., lunch included)

WHERE: Executive Royal Inn (8450 Sparrow Drive, Leduc)

COST: Free (advance registration is required)

"Guest speakers Crystal Cleland and Ron Beach from Alberta Health Services (AHS) will share their extensive experience in developing evidence-based, comprehensive approaches to deal with substance abuse and gambling issues in the workplace," says Heather Graham, LCDAC coordinator with the City of Leduc.

This workshop will discuss the following:

• Impacts of substance abuse on workplace health and safety
• Employer/employee responsibilities
• Cornerstones of policy development
• Strategies to prevent and deal with substance abuse
• Resources and support services available for workplace leaders, employees, co-workers and family members

For more information or to register, email hgraham@leduc.ca or call 780-980-7184.

Leduc City Council passed a 4.8 per cent tax increase for 2012 during their regular council meeting, April 23, 2012. This represents a 2.6 per cent municipal tax increase and a 2.2 per cent increase for the provincial education property tax. This means, a home assessed at $312,000 would roughly pay an extra $91 for the year – with $42 of this amount mandated for the education property tax.

"We have no control over the education tax which is legislated by the province to be collected by municipalities," says Leduc City Manager Paul Benedetto. "The province has levied our municipality close to the maximum allowable amount of 12 per cent over the last three years with the education property tax now being in excess of $10 million per year."

The 2012 Municipal Tax Rate has been reduced by 3 per cent since initial approval-in-principle last December. This was achieved by realigning money saved in the 2012 snow removal budget, utilizing the mill rate stabilization reserve and reducing operational budgets within departments.

Fire Services

Base operational requirements for fire and ambulance service dictated an overall increase of 3.4 per cent. Additional savings were found internally in order to reduce the municipal increase to 2.6 percent through realignment of operational budgets within other departments. To address future fire service requirements on the city’s west end, city administration is proposing a multi-year tax increase strategy of roughly 2 per cent for up to five years, potentially commencing in 2013.

Future investments

• Investing nearly $10 million into roadway infrastructure for 2012.
• Spray park funding increased from $25,000 to $225,000 to provide for partnerships and design funding.
• The eligible age for the Senior’s Free Membership program at the Leduc Recreation Centre has been adjusted to 80, from 85.

"We are experiencing a period of high growth and the pressures that come along with that growth," says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. "I’m very proud of my colleagues on council and our administrative team because although this increase is higher than any one of us wanted, it allows us to continue to provide a safe community with the high quality of life citizens have come to expect." .

Progressive Conservative majority government

Local

Leduc-Beaumont

Wetaskiwin-Camrose

The City of Leduc is hosting a bike festival for children six – 11-years-old to provide hands-on learning opportunities on proper safety equipment and riding practices.

WHAT: 2012 Bike Festival

WHEN: May 12, 2012 (Two sessions: 10 a.m. and noon)

WHERE: Leduc Recreation Centre – Sobeys Arena (4330 Black Gold Drive, Leduc)

COST: Free

"This one-day event is about teaching kids about bike safety, promote good riding skills and proper instruction on the rules of the road," says CPO Sgt. Malaine Wark, supervisor of Enforcement Services (Community Peace Officer) with the City of Leduc. "Enforcement Services is providing a fun environment for youth to learn the importance of proper safety and acceptable riding practices."

Children registered will require:

• A proper bike helmet
• A bicycle in good condition (no training wheels)
• Closed-toe running shoes
• Proper riding and weather appropriate clothing

Event registration is required as the city is offering two sessions. Registration can be done in-person at the Leduc Recreation Centre or by calling 780-980-7120.

Leduc residents are encouraged to use a new online tool to submit their 2012 municipal census information. Each household will receive a formal letter explaining this secure online option. Each household will be assigned a unique access code to complete the online census, April 30 – May 18, 2012.

"We are pleased to offer a secure, online census as an enhanced level of customer service to all citizens," says Debbie Carter, general manager of Corporate Services with the City of Leduc. "It’s important for residents to know that all information collected is in confidence for aggregate analysis and that no names or personal information will be shared."

The City of Leduc has been conducting an annual municipal census since 2008 to ensure the city receives provincial funding commensurate with its fast growing population. Leduc relies on provincial funding to help offset the costs of many important services, including:

• Infrastructure improvements and maintenance
• Recreation and culture programs
• Family and Community Support Services
• RCMP and Leduc Fire Services

This year’s census will include the following questions:

• Number of occupants in the home, age and gender
• Employment/school status
• Location of work
• Household income
• Primary method of daily travel

Enumerators will visit all homes that do not use the online option. Door-to-door enumeration will be May 28 – June 15, 2012.

The City of Leduc is pleased to announce the following recipients for the 2011 Citizens of Distinction Awards:

• Adrianna Noseworthy – Youth Award of Merit
• Tyler Smith – Athletic Achievement Award
• Barbara Crossen – Culture and Heritage Recognition Award
• Florence Lede – Community Spirit Award
• Ron Roesch – Environmental Achievement Award
• Loy Gross – Mayor’s Special Award

"Each year we look forward to honouring those who make significant contributions within their communities," says Cristal Bole, manager of Community Development and Service Planning. "It’s important to recognize that all nominees show true heart and community spirit as volunteers."

The awards were presented at the Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the Leduc Recreation Centre, April 19, 2012. The annual Citizens of Distinction Awards are designed to recognize outstanding individuals, groups, organizations or businesses that have brought recognition to the community. Nominations are sought each year and a selection committee carefully reviews all nominations to select the award recipients.

LEDUC, AB – Parents and caregivers: Have you ever wondered if there is a better approach to parenting or even disciplining your child? Does it seem that your child doesn’t respond to your current techniques? Leduc County Family & Community Support Service may have the answers for you. This May, they will be offering a Positive Discipline workshop series, which provides an approach to parenting that teaches children and guides their behaviour.

"We are very excited to be able to offer this parenting program to families in the Leduc County region," says Loretta Hannah, Early Childhood Resource Program with Leduc County. "This parenting workshop series is relevant to parents of all ages and to future parents. Positive Parenting: What it is and how to do it offers an approach to parenting based on years of research relating to child’s developmental stages, their potential to understand and their ability to problem solve. Parent will use the tools and techniques in the Positive Parenting Manual to explore a parenting approach specific to your family, your values and your long-term child-rearing goals.

"If you consider a toddler between the ages of three and five, they will be at a very different place developmentally than a child who is between the ages of five and nine," says Hannah. "The younger child is at a very curious stage where they want to know what everything is and why; this is an opportunity to use their curiosity to your advantage. You can explain why something gets broken or why you need to leave in five minutes in terms they will comprehend." Hannah also reflects on the older child between the ages of five and nine, "At this age, your child is in the early stages of his school years, which means he will face many new challenges including embracing independence and getting along with many new children. These concepts may be foreign to your child, and he may not know how to respond when asked to do something on his own or when another child takes his toy." The Positive Discipline workshop series will guide parents and caregivers’ parenting through exploring these types of situations and educating them on the child’s understanding at a specific age.

This workshop will be held five consecutive Wednesday evenings (May 2-30) from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Leduc County Centre (1101-5 Street, Nisku). To register, please contact Loretta Hannah at 780-955-4599. The same workshop will also be help several times throughout the year in Leduc County and the Graminia area of Parkland County. Funding for the workshop was provided in part through a grant from the Alberta Centre for Injury Control.

The Positive Discipline workshop series is based on research on children’s healthy development and effective parenting, and founded on child rights principles (healthy development, protection from violence and participation in their learning). The workshop series was developed based on the book by Joan E. Durrant, a child-clinical psychologist and associate professor of family social sciences at the University of Manitoba.

Watch the All Candidates Forum 2012 http://www.leducradio.com/?content/video.html

Held on Thursday, April 12, 2012.

The City of Leduc supports two local community groups, Leduc Royal Canadian Legion #108 and the Alberta Legacy Development Society (grain elevator) in their group effort to host the 2012 Canada Day Parade. The parade is one of more than 18 events hosted to celebrate the nation’s birthday, July 1, 2012.

"It’s very encouraging to see two Leduc organizations come together to provide this event for citizens," says Cristal Bole, manager of Community Development and Service Planning (CDSP). "We look forward to working with both groups to ensure this year’s parade is a success."

City of Leduc departments to assist the legion and grain elevator group include Public Services and CDSP, along with community peace officers.

For more information, call the legion at 780-986-1455 or the grain elevator at 780-980-2679

The City of Leduc will invest almost $10 million in 12 road and utility capital projects in 2012. This year’s infrastructure program includes:

• $6.3 million for the 50 Avenue Widening Project ($4.8 from off-site levies)
• $2.9 million for roads and parking lots
• $600,000 for underground utility work
• $500,000 for additions to the Multiway Trail System

"We have almost doubled our financial investment to our city’s annual infrastructure program," says Kevin Cole, director of Engineering with the City of Leduc. "Since last year, we’ve grown by 3.6 per cent so it’s our challenge to ensure Leduc’s infrastructure can meet present and future demands."

Residents can access the city’s website for updates and to visually monitor the progress of all infrastructure projects via an interactive map at Leduc.ca/construction (click on Map of 2012 Construction Projects)

Leduc and Leduc County have launched a transit survey asking all users and non-users to provide input and help shape the future of transit in the region. The survey can be found at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/K6CHRPF

"Participation in this survey is a vital public engagement tool to help tailor public transit needs for the future of the C-Line commuter bus service," says Kevin Wenzel, manager of Public Transportation for the City of Leduc. "Our goal is to further enhance the program to better serve our customers of today and tomorrow."

In 2011, C-Line provided service to more than 33,000 passengers. This ridership level equates to taking more than 50 vehicles off the road every weekday morning.

"Public transit options boost property values and stimulate local economy," says Rick Thomas, general manager of Community Services with Leduc County. "Public transit helps ease traffic congestion, improve air quality by reducing the number of vehicles on the road and decreasing a citizen’s dependency on personal vehicles."

C-Line is an inter-municipal commuter bus service co-funded by the City of Leduc and Leduc County (Nisku) to connect to Edmonton, including the Edmonton International Airport (EIA).

The Leduc Chamber of Commerce held thier April luncheon on March 30, 2012.

If you would like to listen click the link below

(Part 1) (Part 2)

This forum put on by the BBA will be held on Wednesday, April 18 at the Coloniale Golf Course from 7:00 to 9:00pm

The third annual 50/50 Spring Fitness Challenge is back at the Leduc Recreation Centre (LRC), April 16 – June 17, 2012. Participate in 50 minutes of activity for 50 days in the facility for a chance to win a prize package.

"This year’s nine-week challenge is an excellent motivator to help individuals and families become more active in their daily routines," says Roger Smolnicky, director of the LRC. "It’s open to all Leduc and Leduc County residents and we’re offering great prizes, such as a free one-year lease for a new 2012 Ford Escape from DK Ford."

Other prizes include LRC memberships, LRC party packages, personal training and gift certificates to Hat Tricks restaurant and lounge. This year’s 50/50 challenge is open to all facility members and non-members of any age. Participants must register at LRC guest services to receive their tracking sheet. Eligible activities include swimming, skating, running, walking, working out and any sport in the field house or any other physical activity within the facility. All activity must be tracked and stamped by staff at guest services or the S&D Fitness Centre.

Additional incentives for this year’s challenge include:

• Two entries for completing 55 days
• Three entries for completing 60 days

Leduc City Council passed third reading of the new Municipal Development Plan (MDP), April 10, 2012, to guide future growth for infrastructure, sustainable growth principles and opportunities for economic development.

"The updated MDP will provide long-term direction for future plans and strategic policies," says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. "Our new MDP is a culmination of significant public consultation and dedication from community volunteers and staff to help set the direction of this city over the next 25 years."

Leduc’s new MDP determines where growth is most feasible while factoring the environment, economy, tourism, governance, social wellness, safety, and recreation and culture.

The update of the 2005 MDP began in September 2009 with with the formation of a governing steering committee, a series of open houses and the launch of Imagine Leduc 2035. This online engagement tool allowed an unprecedented number of citizens to provide input on what they see as important. Imagine Leduc 2035 was available for people to access throughout 2010 and those results are reflected in the final MDP.

For more information, visit Leduc.ca/MDP or call 780-980-7177.

(Leduc) Candidates competing for the Leduc-Beaumont seat in the provincial legislature will gather at the Maclab Centre for the Performing Arts at 7:00 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.) on Thursday, April 12. The All Candidate Forum provides voters with an opportunity to learn more about the candidates and to address them regarding election issues.

Candidates: Alberta Party, William Munsey; Liberal Party, Jasen Maminski; New Democratic Party, Hana Razga; Progressive Conservative Party, George Rogers; and Wildrose Party, David Stasiewich will present themselves and answer questions.

Leduc Radio will live-broadcast the event so those unable to attend can watch and also participate in the forum by posting their comments or questions in the chat box at http://ustre.am/eEQs

All are welcome to attend this free forum and engage with election candidates to make an informed decision on Election Day, April 23. Hosted by Leduc Regional Chamber of Commerce and moderated by Don Shay, Chamber Member, this event is part of the Chamber’s commitment to serve the community.

The Leduc Regional Chamber of Commerce stands for promoting business; monitoring municipal, provincial and federal governments; and championing managed growth in the local economy.

This City of Leduc hosts its third annual, two-day event promoting healthy, active living for residents within the city and surrounding areas.

WHAT: Health and Wellness Information Fair

WHEN: April 12 – 13, 2012 (3 – 9 p.m.)

WHERE: Leduc Recreation Centre (4330 Black Gold Drive)

COST: Free

"Each and every day we are faced with choices that can affect our health," says Jackie Kamlah, manager of program services with the City of Leduc. "This fair will provide resources and workshops to help people make better choices and to highlight wellness opportunities available in the community."

This year’s event also features an information trade show and free activities, such as Tai Chi, aquasize, BOSU Basics and Quick Tips for Parenting Your Teen.

The City of Leduc issued a new Fire Safety Code Order April 2, 2012 to outline further efforts required by Bellavera Green receiver, Ayre and Oxford Inc. for the continued safety of condo residents.

"We have agreed to a comprehensive mitigation strategy to return Bellavera Green to an acceptable level of fire safety by May 9, 2012, as stipulated by the Safety Codes Council of Alberta," says Leduc Fire Chief Ernie Polsom. "This new order is in effect until all requirements are met."

Construction work ramped up over this past weekend by the receiver, resulting in acceptable inspections by city officials on April 2, 2012 of the two stipulations the council’s March 15, 2012 Stay of the Order. The project will continue to move forward with clear expectations as listed in the new order. Ayre and Oxford Inc. must address and complete 16 criteria on or before May 9, 2012 (see backgrounder).

For more information on:

• Tenant/building inquiries, call Ayre and Oxford Inc. at 780-448-4984
• City of Leduc-related information, call 780-980-7177

Edmonton – In support of Earth Day 2012, Alberta Motor Association’s Great Battery Roundup campaign presents Albertans with an easy way to safely dispose of their used automobile and marine batteries.

For the entire month of April, AMA members and the general public can properly dispose of and recycle their old batteries by bringing them to any Lube City location throughout the province. Once the batteries are collected, AMA will take them to a recycling plant, where they’ll be stripped down and recycled accordingly.

“With the positive response we received last year, we are very pleased to expand the Great Battery Roundup program to include all Lube City locations throughout Alberta,” said Randy Loyk, AMA Automotive Services. “Recycling automobile and marine batteries is a win-win for everyone that saves energy and money, reduces waste, helps our environment and ultimately shrinks our carbon footprint.”

With more than 97 per cent of a battery’s components recycled towards the production of a new battery, it’s even more worthwhile to keep batteries out of landfills. Though AMA recycles nearly 10,000 batteries annually through its CAA Battery Service, the Great Battery Roundup represents another opportunity to encourage Albertans to dispose of any extra batteries they may have in an environmentally responsible manner. Even dead batteries can contain chemicals such as lead and sulfuric acid that can leak into landfills and cause environmental damage.

“When you recycle your old batteries, we advise those doing so to handle batteries with care by wearing protective gloves and goggles,” said Loyk. “The chemicals inside batteries, even dead batteries, make it necessary to remove and dispose of them properly when they are no longer useful.”

All recycling proceeds will go towards the AMA Foundation for Traffic Safety. For more information about the Great Battery Roundup program, and locations to recycle your battery, visit ama.ab.ca/greatbatteryroundup or contact your local AMA centre.

The Alberta Motor Association (AMA) is the largest membership organization in Alberta, representing more than 918,000 members. As a leading advocate for traffic safety, travel and consumer protection, crime prevention, and the environment, AMA represents the interests of its members and the motoring public to industry and all levels of government. Visit www.ama.ab.ca to learn more about AMA's products, services and member advocacy initiatives.
 

 The City of Leduc anticipates that all urgent building and site improvements will be finalized next week, by the condo’s court-appointed receiver, as required by the Safety Codes Council of Alberta in their Stay of the Order, issued March 15, 2012.

The Stay of the Order stipulated the receiver must:

1. Provide security/fire watch surveillance within the buildings continuously until the fire alarm and detection system is restored to operating condition. The security/fire watch surveillance is required to monitor each floor space not less than once every hour.

2. Provide an access route for the provision of firefighting by March 31, 2012, to the satisfaction of the authority having jurisdiction.

"Barring any unforeseen circumstances, we expect that residents will be able to stay in their homes as we continue our combined efforts with the receiver with the end goal of resident safety," says Leduc Fire Chief Ernie Polsom. "We are hopeful the receiver’s interim efforts will meet inspection standards after the weekend."

Ayre and Oxford Inc. is the court-appointed receiver for Bellavera Green, as of March 2, 2012. The city obtained the receiver’s compliance plan on March 21, 2012, in response to the Stay of the Order, as well as the city’s Feb. 22, 2012 Fire Safety Code Order.

"We’ll continue to improve the site and communicate our efforts to tenants as our goal is to make Bellavera Green a safe building and a great place to live, as demonstrated with our many other condominium complexes," says Don Oxford, partner with Ayre and Oxford Inc. "We are fortunate to have assembled a team of professionals to complete the necessary regulations to allow residents to remain in their homes."

For more information on:

• Tenant/building inquiries, call Ayre and Oxford Inc. at 780-448-4984
• City of Leduc related information, call 780-980-7177.

The Leduc Chamber of Commerce held thier March luncheon on March 2, 2012.

If you would like to listen click the link below

(Part 1)      (Part 2)      (Part 3)

Prep work is expected to commence this week for the 50 Avenue Widening Project as outlined within the City of Leduc 2012 Capital Engineering Program.

"Leduc and regional motorists will experience temporary traffic delays and disruptions at various states through the duration of the project," says Patrick Thomas, municipal engineering coordinator and project lead with the City of Leduc. "Our goal is to ensure minimal disruption for pedestrians and motorists."

With a budget of more than $6 million ($4.8 from off-site levies), work will run May 1 – Oct. 31, 2012, weather permitting. The plan includes:

• Widening 50 Avenue to six lanes from the Queen Elizabeth II highway (QEII) to Alton Drive
• Replacing the old bridge over Deer Creek
• Relocating utility lines
• Adjusting traffic flow patterns and movements on 50 Avenue to increase roadway capacity
• Safe removal of a small amount of trees 250 metres of 50 Avenue east of Discovery Way

"The trees and brush to be removed were assessed by the city’s certified arborist and will be moved or saved where possible," says Todd Wilson, superintendent, public services for parks and open spaces. "All appropriate environmental practices will be in place to minimize effects on Deer Valley Creek and natural habitat in the area."

The small portion of natural tree stand will be removed prior to April 15, 2012. It includes roughly 85 per cent poplar, 10 per cent willow and five per cent other species, such as dogwood, maple and spruce.

"Any trees and shrubs removed will be chipped and transported to the city’s compost transfer facility," says Thomas.

EDMONTON - Alberta Health Services has confirmed a case of measles in the Edmonton-area, and is advising of potential exposures.

Individuals who were at the following locations within the timeframes specified may have been exposed to the confirmed case of measles:

On Tuesday March 20, 2012 at 6:30am the Leduc-Nisku Economic Development Authority put on thier first breakfast of the year which was thier Regional Ecomic Summit.

Click below to listen to the segments of the Regional Economic Summit.

Part 1   

To Listen Click Here

This section includes:

- Gail Scott, Executive Director of the Leduc-Nisku Economic Development Authority greats audience as well as introduces and welcomes officials and V.I.P.s in attendence.

- "O'Canada' is sung by Kara Matkea who is a grade 9 student from Beaumont.

- Blessing by Pastor Marlo Jenkins.

- Welcome Message - Mayor Camille Berube

- Beaumont Credit Union - Sponsor Message

- Town of Beaumont - Marc Landry, Chief Administrative Officer - Sponsor Message

- EDA & Regional Projects Update

Part 2

To Listen Click Here

This section includes a Panel Session with:

    Moderator

    Graeme Burns, Energizing moderator and motivational speaker

    Panelists

    Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism

    Angus Watt, CEO and Partner of Angus Watt Advisory Group and Managing Director of Individual Investor Servcices of National Bank Financial

    Mike Lake, M.P. Edmonton - Mill Woods-Beaumont, Parliamentary Secrectary to the Minister of Industry

    Peter McCart, Vice President of Strategy and Airline Development, Edmonton International Airport         

 Part 3

To Listen Click Here

This section includes: 

- Evergreen Ecological Services - Sponsor Message

- Public Works & Government Services Canada - Exhibitor Showcase Presentation

- Ambassador Induction - Inspector Wally Lynds, Leduc RCMP

- Community Updates

- Door Prizes

The Safety Codes Council of Alberta issued a Stay of the Order on March 15, 2012 in response to the Feb. 24, 2012 appeal submitted following the City of Leduc’s Fire Safety Codes Order stipulating tenant evacuation by March 31, 2012.

“Two conditions have been outlined in the Stay of the Order and until they are met, the original order stands,” says Leduc Fire Chief Ernie Polsom. “To date, we’re not aware of any work on site and our order remains in effect until the conditions stipulated by the Safety Codes Council are met.”

The original Fire Safety Codes Order was issued due to critical life-safety code deficiencies with a strong priority placed on the safety of residents. The order outlines eight Alberta Fire and Safety Code violations (see attached).

“Our focus absolutely remains on the safety of those tenants still residing in the building and we stand by the original order,” says Polsom.

On March 12, 2012 at noon, on-site fire watch and 24/hour surveillance was officially handed over to the court-appointed receiver, Ayre and Oxford Inc. To date the City of Leduc has committed almost $224,000 to address the immediate life-safety code deficiencies, which include:

• New temporary stairwell for emergency egress
• Basic repairs to fire alarm system for activation
• Minor sprinkler repairs to get the system activated
• 24-hour site surveillance and on-site fire watch

For the City of Leducs Official Statement In response to the decision made by the Safety Codes Council of Alberta granting a Stay of the Order click here

Background

FIRE SAFETY CODES ORDER

Inspections conducted up until Feb. 8, 2012 revealed numerous and serious Alberta Fire and Building Code violations:

1. The construction site has been abandoned with no foreseeable completion of required construction and no clear ownership of the site.

2. There is no person directly responsible for emergency planning processes, nor for the maintenance of critical life-safety and fire-protection systems, including fire alarm, fire sprinkler, and fire department connections. All of these are located in the incomplete Unit A (Phase 2) section of the building as are all other building services.

3. This abandoned construction area has been left completely unsecured.

4. Excavations along the primary fire access route has made that access route unsafe for departmental deployment of large fire vehicles and is a situation that will worsen as frost comes out of the ground and the already-unstable gravel roadway softens.

5. This fire access is also the primary access to the Fire Department Connection supporting the sprinkler and standpipe systems.

6. Required fire separations throughout the facility including those between Unit D (Phase 1) and Unit A (Phase 2) and the parkade have either not been completed or have been damaged.

7. The fire alarm system for the entire complex does not meet Alberta Building Code requirements. While the alarm system for Phase 1 (Unit D) was properly verified, it appears that significant work was done on the system after that point and included interconnection of the system with Phase 2 (Unit A). This work appears to have been done incorrectly resulting in a situation where the ground fault failure of a single detector or in-line appliance will render the entire system inoperative leaving the facility with no fire detection or alerting systems.

8. A plan for the demolition of the condemned Phase I (Unit D) stairwell must be developed and implemented and must include a special Demolition Fire Safety Plan linked to the overall facility plan. Collapse of the condemned stairwell threatens damage to the new stairwell, critical fire protection and building services including a high-pressure gas main and presents considerable risk to occupants and others on site.

More Background Information on this subject click here

Beaumont, AB – The Town of Beaumont challenges residents to conserve energy during Earth Hour 2012 ^TM held on Saturday, March 31 at 8:30 p.m. Residents of Beaumont are encouraged to participate by turning off all non-essential lights and electronics for one hour.

“We encourage all Beaumont residents to participate in this initiative and do their part for the environment. Everyone has the responsibility to keep our planet healthy! ,” says Beaumont Mayor Camille Bérubé

“It is not only energy from lights that residents can conserve,” says Jarret Esslinger, Town of Beaumont Environmental Sustainability Coordinator. “Standby power, which is power being consumed by household electronics that are turned off, is estimated to consume 20 per cent of household energy use. We are encouraging residents to not only turn off the lights on March 31, but also unplug non-essential appliances and chargers.”

What can residents of Beaumont do during Earth Hour 2012? Get a group of people together and:

• Have a candle light games night.
• Have a conversation about other ways to conserve energy year-round.
• Set up a scavenger hunt around your house identifying where energy can be saved.
• Go to wwf.ca/earthhour/ to find other ideas.

The Town of Beaumont has a number of environmental initiatives currently going on or in the works for this year.

• The Toilet Replacement Rebate Program for replacing your standard toilet with a low-flush CSA approved toilet.
• The annual June Rain Barrel sale is another program that helps Beaumont residents conserve water.
• On Saturday, June 2 the Town will be holding its first E-Waste and Household Hazardous Waste Round Up. This is an opportunity for residents to dispose of waste electronics as well as unused household products that contain corrosive, toxic, flammable, or reactive ingredients.
• Development of an Environmental Master Plan that will guide future environmental initiatives and policies. More information and an opportunity for residents to provide feedback will be provided during the year.

These initiatives and others support the Smart Growth key focus area in the 2011-2016 Strategic Plan. For information on these and other environmental initiatives please click here.

In response to the March 15, 2012 decision made by the Safety Codes Council of Alberta granting a Stay of the Order (Fire Safety Code Order issued by the City of Leduc, Feb. 22, 2012 for the Bellavera Green Condo Complex) as requested by Condominium Corporation #1022801:

"The City of Leduc is currently reviewing the Stay of the Order and considering all options as our prime concern in this matter is resident safety."

"The City of Leduc was not included in the process that lead to this decision of the stay being granted, nor is there any record of a Safety Codes Council representative attending the site for inspection. Implications of this Stay of the Order are not clear at this time regarding the wide range of items listed in the Feb. 22, 2012 Fire Safety Codes Order."

The City of Leduc, in partnership with the Leduc Regional Chamber of Commerce, announces the 2012 parade float schedule to market the city throughout the province. A subsequent decision was also made to not include a parade in this year’s Canada Day festivities.

Leduc’s parade float will now be featured to 6,000 people in the Old Strathcona Canada Day Parade, July 1. Other 2012 dates include:

• May 26 Devon
• June 2 Leduc Black Gold Rodeo
• June 9 Beaumont
• June 29 Ponoka Stampede
• July 6 Calgary Stampede
• July 18 Red Deer
• July 19 Edmonton’s Capital EX
• Nov. 30 Leduc’s Santa Claus Parade

"The decision to not include a parade in this year’s Canada Day celebrations was rendered for a number of reasons," says Cristal Bole, manager of community development and service planning with the City of Leduc. "The main reason is the date change for two of Leduc’s larger events, the Black Gold Rodeo and Alberta Dairy Congress. Leduc’s largest annual community parade hosted in conjunction with the rodeo is now going to be held June 2, less than four weeks before Canada Day."

Other considerations also include:

• Canada Day falls on a Sunday impacting church services, more specifically the annual parade route directly affecting churches in the immediate area
• Downtown businesses are closed Sundays
• A considerable amount of resources and manpower are required to operate and manage a parade

The Leduc Black Gold Rodeo and Alberta Dairy Congress will be held jointly at the Leduc Recreation Centre, May 29 – June 3, 2012. Visit blackgoldrodeo.com for more information about this year’s event and rodeo trade show.

Leduc’s first Environmental Plan – Phase 1 was approved by Leduc City Council, Feb. 27, 2012, after extensive consultation with citizens.

"Our environmental vision is set and ready to go," says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. "This plan is an excellent step forward for the City of Leduc to enhance current services and to explore new and innovative ways to be more environmentally responsible."

The plan outlines a 10-year vision for a healthy and clean environment based on factual assessments of the city’s waste, water, land, air, noise, light, energy and climate change needs. Recommendations include:

• Develop a new approach to collecting and composting organics
• Continue the annual rain barrel program and initiate backyard composter program
• Create community resources for environmental education
• Develop a climate-change readiness plan
• Engage youth in local environmental initiatives
• Focus on internal operational priorities for environmental sustainability

To implement action priorities identified in the plan, capital and operation budgets over the next three years total $120,000.

"In this plan, we have set targets for residential waste diversion of 45 per cent by 2013 and 65 per cent by 2021," says Krischke. "Through significant public consultation efforts, we know citizens desire concrete actions which this plan addresses."

The City of Leduc’s mission is to protect the unique environment of the area and enhance quality of life through effective, innovative, responsible leadership and consultation.

The City of Leduc is the honoured recipient of the 2012 Accessibility Leadership Award from the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) for its Everybody gets to play™ (EGTP) program.

Everybody gets to play is a national initiative to enhance the quality of life for families by increasing access and participation in recreation, athletic and cultural opportunities. EGTP was introduced to Leduc in 2010 and now complements other innovative community recreation programs, such as MNP Kicks for Kids, Canadian Tire Jumpstart, Recreation Access Program and Creative Culture Connections.

"We are very excited to be recognized by the province for our efforts within our community, specifically with children and youth," says Cristal Bole, manager of community development and service planning. "Everybody gets to play is successful because of the commitment and support of city council, our corporate citizens, residents and city administration."

ARPA’s Children and Youth staff selected Leduc’s EGTP program as this year’s award winner as the program represents a commitment to children and youth development.

Leduc and area residents will have an opportunity to learn more about the city and how to get involved:

WHAT: Spring 2012 Community Information and Registration Day (CIRD)

WHEN: March 13, 2012 (5 p.m. – 8 p.m.)

WHERE: Leduc Recreation Centre (4330 Black Gold Drive, Leduc)

"Leduc is a growing community so it’s important that we provide additional opportunities for residents to learn more about the city, volunteer opportunities and programs/services available for all members of the family," says Cristal Bole, manager of community development and service planning with the City of Leduc.

The spring event will feature more than 30 local organizations representing local sport, recreation, culture, arts, church, and social and service clubs. This event is a spring alternative to the annual fall CIRD session which has been hosted by the city for more than 20 years.

"Spring 2012 CIRD is just another way to reach out to citizens and provide service groups a venue to increase their visibility within the community," says Bole.

Leduc Fire Services raised $27,000 in the second annual Fire on the Roof for Muscular Dystrophy campaign where four firefighters volunteered to camp on the roof of Leduc’s Protective Services Building for four days and three nights.

"We’re very proud to be a part of such a wonderful cause," says Karen Faryna, public relations coordinator with Leduc Fire Services. "We have received an overwhelming support from this community, from residents to corporate citizens."

Listed below are the unofficial fundraising amounts from the other regional communities that participated in Rooftop Campout 2012. These amounts are unofficial until mid-March:

• Edmonton - $72,000
• St. Albert - $30,000
• Leduc - $27,000
• Spruce Grove - $22,000
• Strathcona - $15,000

Leduc was successful for the second consecutive year raising the most funds per capita for Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

Kate and William rise in the ranks, Liam and Olivia top the lists
Edmonton... The royal visit by Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, appears to have left a lasting impression on Alberta families naming babies in 2011, with eight boys named Prince, six girls named Princess, and one boy named Princewill.

“It was an honour for Alberta to host the royal newlyweds last July on their first official tour as a married couple,” said Service Alberta Minister Manmeet Bhullar. “The Duke and Duchess were warmly received by our province and it’s no surprise that parents would want to name their children after a couple who showed such care for Albertans, particularly in Slave Lake.”

William and Kate both became more popular names in 2011. At 199 in total, William rose to 9th place from 11th the previous year. With 50, Kate ascended to 64th place from 79th. One baby girl was named Pippa.

Families chose other monarchy-related monikers: Knightly, Lady, Mirza, Queen, Reign, Royal, and Sovereign for girls; and Dominion, Duke, Emir, Kaiser, King, Lord, Malik, Princelife, and Sultan for boys.

Preliminary figures show that 50,592 babies were born in Alberta in 2011, just 10 less than 2010, and 906 fewer than 2009’s record-breaking total of 51,498. Overall in 2011, Olivia was the most popular name for girls, the choice of 290 families. The top pick for boys was Liam, with 270 families giving the name to their newborn sons.

The Vital Statistics branch of Service Alberta recorded 5,695 distinct boy names and 6,994 unique girl names, including two girls named Unique. Parents also celebrated new additions to their families with names such as Amen, Destiny, Divine, Favour and Marvelous for boys; and Heavenly, Hopestill, Hosanna, Kismet, Lovely, Praise and Precious for girls.

Several parents of boys chose military-related names, including Arrow, Caliber, Cannon, Gunner, Jag, Major, Pistol, Remington, Stryker, Tank and Trooper. Many girls were named after nature, with names such as Acacia, Amaranth, Autumn-Destiny, Cedar, Feather, Juniper, Oryx, Tulip, Star, Storm and Winter.

Some babies received one-of-a-kind names, such as the boys named Doc, Essay, J-Cub, Jäger, Moo, Stylez, Smiley, Solo, Stiff, and Tuff; and the girls named Dreamz, Luv, Lyric, Mega, Meta, Siri, Story, Symphonie, and Tuba.

Alberta’s top names for baby girls and baby boys

Beaumont came out on top again this year in the second annual Family Day Unplugged Challenge by logging more than 50,000 hours. Family Day Unplugged is a regional initiative to encourage people to disconnect from technology and connect with family and friends.

For the record, here is a list of the top five ‘Unplugged’ communities calculated by population-base and the total reported hours:

1. Beaumont 52,270 hours

2. Devon 8,468 hours

3. Drayton Valley, Breton and Brazeau County 14,880.5 hours

4. Redwater 1,356 hours

5. Leduc 12,007.5 hours

Family Day Unplugged experienced a noticeable participation increase over last year. There were 10 regional municipalities in 2011 logging just over 15,000 hours. The 2012 campaign attracted 17 municipalities recording more than 120,000 hours.

"The growth we’ve witnessed in only the second year of Unplugged is very positive and exciting. We look forward to next year and hope for this initiative to become contagious throughout the province," says Tabitha White, manager of City of Leduc Family and Community Support Services.

Family Day Unplugged is a joint Family Day initiative of FCSS in 17 municipalities in the capital region: Beaumont, Brazeau County, Breton, Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, Devon, Drayton Valley, Gibbons, Leduc, Leduc County, Morinville, Redwater, Spruce Grove, St. Albert, Stony Plain, Strathcona County and Sturgeon County.

Thank-you to all the bidders that helped Support the Leduc & District Victim Services

Leduc Radio's 72 Hour Auction is a fundraiser, all proceeds will go to the Leduc & District Victim Services

The auction starts with

Item #1 Highest Bid so far - $100.00

1 Limited Edition Fallen Heroes RCMP Right Handed Hockey Stick (see Pictures below)

and

Item #2 Highest Bid So far - $100.00

1 Limited Edition Fallen Heroes RCMP Left Handed Hockey Stick (see Pictures below)

Item #3 - Value of over $500.00 Minimum Bid $250.00 -  Hightest bid $250.00

(2) Gold club NHL tickets for the Oiler vs Blue jackets, with free parking.(see Picture above)

Game is on Wednesday March 14th 2012 at 8:00pm.

(Donated by Waterloo Ford Lincoln Edmonton www.waterlooford.com)

How to make a bid

1. You can go to our facebook page and simply insert your bid under the comments section on our wall.

2. You can twitter us, by replying to one of our tweets about this auction. (we will post your bid on the facebook site for you)

2. You can e-mail us at communityevents@leducradio.com (we will post your bid on the facebook site for you)

Rules:

1. Place your bid on one of the above locations.

2. Non-facebook bids will be posted to the best of our ability as we receive them.

3. All bids must include your real name to be considered to be a valid bid.

4. Largest bid by the auction close date & time, wins the auction for that item.

This Auction will close on Friday, March 2, at 3:00pm.

We will keep you update on air and on line (via social media-twitter, our website & facebook) as bids come in.

About Leduc & District Victim Services

The mission of Leduc & District Victim Assistance Society is to provide a highly skilled, compassionate level of service to any victim of crime or tragedy, through thier dedicated staff and trained volunteers

This Victim Service Unit is a policed based, non-profit, charitable society that works in conjunction with the Leduc, Beaumont, Devon, Thorsby & Airport RCMP detachments to provide Support, Information and Referrals to persons in Leduc County during their time of crisis, trauma or tragedy whether it is as a victim of crime, sudden death or family crisis.

For more information click here

The City of Leduc Fire Department issued a Fire Safety Codes Order, Feb. 22, 2012, to evacuate all residents of the Bellavera Green Condo Complex (6201 Grant MacEwan Blvd.) by March 31, 2012 due to critical life-safety concerns.

 “The safety of these residents is our number one priority,” says Fire Chief Ernie Polsom. “This order was issued after numerous, serious Alberta Fire and Building Code violations were revealed, yet were left unaddressed by the building owners.”

The City of Leduc has taken extraordinary measures to address several life-safety code deficiencies that have extended occupancy of this building. However, these measures are no longer sustainable.

 “The temporary measures the city has in place will allow residents a transition period to evacuate the building by March 31, 2012,” says Polsom.

 Residents will be provided a copy of the order along with resource information from City of Leduc Family and Community Support Services to assist them during their transition.

From anywhere in the world, viewers can log onto Leduc.ca to watch the day-to-day activities of the four Leduc firefighters camping on the roof to raise funds for Muscular Dystrophy, Feb. 21 - 24, 2012.

"We’re continuing this unique component to our campaign as last year we received a lot of positive feedback," says Karen Faryna, public relations coordinator with Leduc Fire Services.

The video feed will be live, accessible from the City of Leduc homepage through the ‘Fire on the Roof’ icon. Once the online user has accessed the page, they can learn about the four rooftop campers, the 2012 campaign and ways to donate: by mail, online or in-person.

This is Leduc’s second annual Fire on the Roof for Muscular Dystrophy campaign. Last year, the fundraising goal was $25,000. Due to the overwhelming support of the community, Leduc Fire Services raised more than $36,000. The goal for the 2012 campaign is $30,000.

This year Leduc has joined other regional municipal fire service units as part of the Rooftop Campouts for Muscular Dystrophy. The other units are Edmonton, Spruce Grove, St. Albert and Strathcona.

* Sports Broadcasts

* Special Events

* Livestock Auctions

….it is your event, Broadcast It!

Sports Broadcasts - Perhaps you are looking to increase awareness and promote your sport? Maybe Grandma and Grandpa in Ontario watching their grand kids is the reason? Perhaps you are at a tournament and you want the folks back home who couldn’t make the trip to be able to watch the event? Or just maybe you are a sport looking to increase your revenues or provide value added to your sponsors? Whatever your reason - Broadcast It.

With our growing Sports broadcast experience including :

- 2 seasons of broadcasting our local Junior B Hockey team home games, including play by play and color.

- the 2011 Provincial Jr. B Hockey Championships, including play by play & color.

- 2012 Provincial Scotties curling at the Leduc Recreation Center

We are well suited to be able to deliver your sport to the viewing audience of your choosing.

And with a new direction being added to our service to include Livestock Auctions. Aside from delivering a high quality video feed live or via pod cast, we can assist with creating additional participants, develop more interactive and involved “as it happens” viewers, and ultimately increase revenues.

For more information call 780-669-3252

In a one hour broadcast of most events, there are typically several minutes before, during, and after, in which to run 30 second commercials, 15 second announcements and acknowledgements of future events, current events sponsors, teams - their sponsors, and so much more. And that is just for starters. The live broadcast is just one thing, additionally there is the added value of continuing the availability of the broadcast after the event by posting your event as a vod/podcast.

16 - 30 second commercials during a one hour broadcast is reasonable for a one hour sporting event. Naming rights of the scoreboard flashes, branding of the event broadcast itself - each of which has a financial value…. The logo attachments to the bulk emails going out to promote the event and the possible attendance or viewership, is more value for a sponsor or advertiser. The value added list goes on and on. At a recent event we found that the video broadcast assisted dramatically in attendance towards the end of the tournament. It assisted in generating tickets sales, pumping up 50-50 sales, increased concession sales, increased hotel and local restaurant sales…

But most important for you to know, is all you have to do is focus on the event the way you have always done it. We offer turn key packages, that will assist you in developing the many advertising opportunities, while you keep your focus on your event.

For live stock sales for example, adding our broadcast to your next sale gives the opportunity for interested attendees who are unable to be at your location, to watch where it is more convenient and participate from a distance. Even 10 more viewers, able to call in and bid, purchase, or participate in a live auction may have a significant impact on driving the bid up or final purchase price up on a particular lot number. The promotion of the breed, the breeder, the annual sale, the auction house, the list goes on and on… Facebook, Twitter working for you behind the scenes as your auction unfolds - Live and uninterrupted.

Call 780-669-3252 for more information

 County of Leduc Residents Including - Town of Devon, Town of Beaumont, City of Leduc

You can log your hours after Feb. 20 by going to fcssaa.ab.ca

City of Leduc Residents Can also fill out a ballot form at the following locations:

• Leduc Recreation Centre (4330 Black Gold Drive)
• FCSS (Medical Arts Building - 4721 47 Ave)
• Leduc Public Library (1 Alexandra Park)
• Telford House (4907 46 Street)

• Hours must be logged before 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012.

The Leduc Relay for Life is having a Garage Sale. 

If you are looking to get rid of some of your things that you have collected over the winter this is a good time to do it. All you have to do now is book your table.

The Garage Sale will not be until Saturday, April 21st, so you will have a lot of time to get your things together.  It will be held at the Leduc Composite High School, this is a convenient location with lots of parking.

For more information or to book your table go to www.leducrelayforlifegs.eventbrite.ca/ or contact Miranda 780-980-0718.

Tell them that Leduc Radio sent you :)    

The City of Leduc is proud to announce that 82,023 minutes (more than 1,360 hours) of activity was logged by residents, schools and the Boys and Girls Club of Leduc on Winter Walk Day, Feb. 8, 2012.

"This accomplishment reflects of what can be achieved when a community comes together for a common purpose," says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. "Each year our Winter Walk Day numbers are growing demonstrating that more people are seeing the value of active living all year-round."

This year marks the fourth annual event hosted in Leduc and the level of participation continues to increase:

• 2009: 30,087 minutes (501 hours)
• 2010: 43,815 minutes (725 hours)
• 2011: 66,694 minutes (1,111 hours)
• 2012: 82,023 minutes (1,367 hours)

Winter Walk Day in Alberta is organized by SHAPE (Safe, Healthy Active People Everywhere) which promotes Active and Safe Routes to School and International Walk to School Week. SHAPE set a goal to have more than 100,000 Albertans take part in this year’s Winter Walk Day. Alberta communities will compete for awards sponsored by the Alberta Motor Association (AMA).

In 2011, Leduc received top honours in the Community Challenge: Population Class 4 category by AMA. City representatives were awarded a plaque and $500 to be used to promote healthy lifestyles for residents in the area.

RCMP have advised that the train is still stationary however it is believed it will be running within the hour.

Traffic is still being rerouted to 65th Ave. and Rollyview Road

Locations that are currently unavailable are 47 Street & BlackGold Drive, as well as downtown at Confustion corner (50 ave & 47st).

If you have any additional information please feel free to contact us. 

On February 13th, 2012 at approximately 3:28 p.m., Leduc RCMP received a report of a pedestrian struck by a train behind the Protective Services Building in Leduc.

Cost: Free

March 1 - 9:00am to 4:30pm
March 2 - 9:00am to 4:30pm
March 3 - 10:00am to 1:30pm

Community Hockey game to start at 1:45pm

Teams from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, BC & Northwest Territories

In Support of Leduc & District Victim Services there will be:

-Silent Aution, 50/50 Draws

Beaumont, AB – Beaumont residents can look forward to a number of key infrastructure projects this year. The projects include 50 Street Zone 3 (Township Road 510 to 55 Avenue) realignment, 50 Avenue storm sewer upgrades, playground equipment replacement, as well as the annual street improvement and community pathways programs.

“As you can see by the number of projects, 2012 will be another busy and positive year for Beaumont. We believe these projects will continue to position Beaumont as a great community for continued growth in the future,” says Mayor Camille Bérubé. “We ask the community, and residents adjacent to the infrastructure projects, to watch for more details on each project in the Beaumont Communiqué newsletter, in the La Nouvelle/Beaumont News, and on the Town’s website.”

Along with the finishing touches on the construction of the north section of 50 Street (Township Road 510 to 41 Avenue) this year, the Town will be working on construction of 50 Street Zone 3 (Township Road 510 to slightly south of 55 Avenue, at the Ken Nichol Regional Recreation Centre). The Zone 3 construction includes the realignment of the roadway, due to traffic volume.

The 50 Avenue storm sewer upgrades include the installation of a water main and storm sewer line to improve the existing design and to accommodate future development.

Four playgrounds are slated to get new equipment this year. They include Parc Du Coin/Corner Park, Parc Carousel Park, Parc Canal LeBlanc Park, and Parc Boulevard Park.

The street improvement program maintains existing municipal roadways by asphalt milling, concrete replacement and overlays. The community pathways program encourages fitness, recreation and an appreciation of nature.

Seventeen municipalities in the Capital Region have joined together to encourage residents to unplug on Family Day, February 20. Everyone is asked to disconnect from technology for the day in order to reconnect with family, friends and community. Go for a walk, gather for a board game, eat dinner together or play in the snow.

These municipalities are challenging each other to see who can spend the most time unplugged. Individuals and families from each participating municipality can log the hours spent unplugged from technology on February 20th by visiting www.fcssaa.ab.ca, and share their stories on what they did to unplug. Residents have until February 22 to submit the number of hours they unplugged on Family Day.

Why Unplug?

• 73% of kids would rather play with their parents than watch TV or use the Internet. (Ikea: Play Report, 2010)
• Teens that have more than three family dinners per week are more likely to get better grades. (Casa, 2009)
• Residents in connected neighbourhoods have greater quality of life. (Shields, 2008)

In 2011, the first year for this challenge, the Town of Beaumont won the Family Day challenge by unplugging from technology for a community total of 13,495 hours. The collective unplugged total for all ten communities participating last year was more than 15,000 hours. This year seven more communities are coming on board making it more exciting than ever!

Family Day Unplugged is an initiative organized and promoted in cooperation with: Town of Beaumont, Brazeau County, Village of Breton, City of Edmonton, City of Fort Saskatchewan, Town of Devon, Town of Drayton Valley, Town of Gibbons, City of Leduc, Leduc County, Town of Morinville, Town of Redwater, City of Spruce Grove, City of St. Albert, Town of Stony Plain, Strathcona County and Sturgeon County.

On February 2nd, 2012 at approximately 5:43 p.m., Leduc RCMP received a report of a robbery at the Medicine shoppe on 50th Street in Leduc.

Leduc RCMP immediately attended the location however the male suspect had already fled the scene. After further investigation it is believed that a lone unidentified male came into the shop wearing a dark colored touque and an article of clothing that covered most of his face. The male did not produce or mention a weapon in the incident.

The male demanded the pharmacist hand over an undisclosed amount of drugs. The pharmacist complied with the males request but advised police that amongst the various drugs taken by the male, were approximately 10-20 2 ml vials of Methotrexate.

Methotrexate is a chemotherapy drug that kills any reproducing cells in the body and blocks the ability to reproduce those cells completely. Because of the possibility of serious toxic reactions which can be FATAL, this drug should only be administered under the care of a physician

Leduc RCMP are concerned about the possible health risks associated with anyone taking this drug or any type medication not prescribed by your physician. Leduc RCMP did speak with Poison Control who advise anyone who ingests Methotrexate must attend the hospital IMMEDIATELY!

 Leduc RCMP are seeking the public's assistance with this matter. Anyone having information about this incident or the individual(s) involved are asked to contact the Leduc RCMP at (780) 980-7267. If you wish to remain anonymous, please provide your information to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or go online to www.tipsubmit.com

Beaumont, AB – Residents who wish to donate school supplies to students in Cambodia are welcome to bring their donations to the Town Office until Friday, February 10, 2012.

Through the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association (AUMA) and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Councillor Biollo will be traveling to Cambodia, with the donated supplies, to share knowledge of governance and women in government. Councillor Biollo’s mission to Cambodia is funded through AUMA and FCM.

“We are glad that FCM International is providing support for ongoing capacity building initiatives for countries in need,” says Mayor Camille Bérubé. “We look forward to receiving information on how AUMA has assisted Cambodia with this initiative.”

This specific project is under the same program as the Municipal Partners for Economic Development (MPED) that the Town of Beaumont is working on with the District of Kohthom in Cambodia.

In two weeks the province’s top youth cross country skiers will be racing on Devon trails. Due to lack of snow, the Alberta Winter Games organizers decided to change venue for cross country ski events from Chickakoo Lake to the Devon Golf and Conference Centre.

“We worked really hard with hosts in Stony Plain, Spruce Grove and Parkland County to keep as many venues as possible in their jurisdiction, but the organizing committee has made the decision to move the cross country ski venue to Devon,” said Mike Neary, general manager for Cross Country Alberta. “There is a micro climate that creates an oasis in the river valley, and right now Devon has better snow than anyone in the region.”

The Games focus on youth achievements and offer upcoming elite athletes a taste of provincial level competition. Some 2,800 athletes, coaches and participants are expected to take part in a variety of sports during the Games, which take place February 9-12, 2012 throughout the tri-municipal region.

The events schedule for Devon includes the following:

Friday, February 10 - 300 m and 600 m sprint events

Saturday, February 11 – 2.5 km, 3.5 km and 5 km classic

Sunday, February 12 – 2.5 km relay

The Devon Nordic Ski Club, the Town of Devon and the Devon Golf and Conference Centre will be working with event organizers to groom trails and meet setup requirements. “We want to ensure that we provide a safe and appropriate competition,” Neary said. “We are grateful to Devon for embracing the Games and welcoming athletes.”

On Jan 24,  Leduc County council gave final reading to a bylaw approving the ; City of Leduc approved the plan on November 28, 2011.

The plan was presented at a joint public hearing of City and County councils on November 15, 2011 where more than 30 people were in attendance to find out more and provide feedback. "The plan was well received with many good comments and questions from the public," says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. "This demonstrates that people have an interest in the plan and a will to get involved in the future of the Leduc area."

The IDP will allow both municipalities to oversee and guide development and growth for specific land areas of shared interest along their common boundary. The IDP is based on five guiding principles to ensure a sustainable Leduc region: smart growth, creating vibrant communities, environmental stewardship, economic development, and responsible governance.

"Approval of this plan is the first step in a building proactive long-term sustainability for the region; it’s not the end of a journey but rather the beginning of a strong partnership to address the anticipated growth and development in this region over the next 30 years," says Leduc County Mayor John Whaley. "We must remain diligent in our willingness to work together with our regional partners to address intermunicipal issues and areas of common concern, as continued cooperation is imperative to making our region a great place to live and work, both now and into the future."

"We are very satisfied with the outcome and we value our strong relationship with our neighbours in the County," says Krischke. "Our focus is on implementing this plan."

This planning document is the result of a four-year planning process that included consultation with residents, landowners, the Capital Region Board and major stakeholders such as Alberta Transportation, Edmonton International Airport and surrounding towns and cities.

The approved City of Leduc –Leduc County IDP can be viewed on the City’s website at www.leduc.ca or on the County’s website at www.leduc-county.com.

                                                        -

Leduc’s Downtown Master Plan received final approval from city council, Jan. 23, 2012. The master plan addresses key economic, environmental and social issues for a holistic approach to downtown revitalization. The document outlines an in-depth urban design, along with guidelines, policies and strategies to support a vibrant and sustainable downtown neighbourhood.

City administration has worked pro-actively on this project through extensive public consultation for more than a year. Reaching out to residents and the business community, the goal is to revitalize the downtown to feature higher-density residential development, Leduc’s historic sites and encourage various transportation means, such as walking, cycling and public transit. Other potential improvements outlined in the plan include:

• Outdoor public square for live music, arts and markets
• Signature entrance signage
• Innovative public art installations
• Completion of the 49 Street promenade to connect the Leduc Civic Centre and Alexandra Park
• Architectural and streetscape improvements to enhance overall aesthetics of the downtown core

The Downtown Master Plan was developed in tandem with the city’s Municipal Development Plan. This document can be viewed online (www.leduc.ca/City_Government/Departments/Planning_and_Development).

This morning at approximately 7:43 a.m., Leduc RCMP were alerted to a collision on the Queen Elizabeth Highway QEII just north of the Nisku exit (exit 525). Involved in the collision was an Alberta Sherrif’s prisoner escort van believed to be on route to Calgary. As a result of the collision, the prisoner van caught fire. All Nine prisoners and two Alberta Sheriffs were safely evacuated from the vehicle.

Beaumont, AB – Winter construction has been completed on 50 Street (Twp. Rd. 510 to 41 Ave.) and the speed limit has been adjusted. Motorists are now permitted to travel 50km/h in and out of the divided roadway (for safety purposes) and 80 km/h within the divided section. The final phase of construction will resume in the spring with expected completion in the summer.

“I would once again like to thank residents for their cooperation during the construction of 50 Street,” says Mayor Camille Bérubé. “The adjustment in speed limit was made for the convenience of motorists during the winter months.”

Over 18,000 vehicles travel on the north part of 50 Street (Township Road 510 to 41 Avenue) each day. Due to the demand caused by this volume of traffic, the Town of Beaumont, in partnership with Alberta Transportation, is widening this section of 50 Street to a four-lane divided roadway. This widening will improve traffic flow and safety for residents of Beaumont and the Capital region.

http://ustre.am/sVWj

To watch now

Two Leduc firefighters are top medal winners from the third annual UAE International FireFit Championships, Jan. 15 – 17, 2012 in Dubai. Kari Skierka and Kerry Harper also received bronze medals as part of Team Canada for the overall event.

"To have the opportunity to compete at the international level is extraordinary," says Deputy Fire Chief George Clancy with Leduc Fire Service. "They proudly represented this community and were very successful in the event."

Skierka and Harper received a gold medal on the NXG2 race, a tandem relay event, while Skierka won gold as the top female overall. Both firefighters volunteered their time and funds in order to compete in this international competition.

FireFit is an event open to all firefighters as they go head-to-head showcasing regular ground tasks utilized at fire scenes. Competitors try to outrun each other as they go through the tasks in sequence.

Last November Leduc was successful in its bid for the 2012 Scott FireFit Northern Alberta Regional Championships, to be held June 9 – 10 at the Leduc Recreation Centre.

"With the recent successes of our firefighters at various FireFit competitions, we hope to increase awareness and support of our locally-hosted event this year," says Clancy.

Due to a weather warning issued by Environment Canada of Wind chill values of minus 40 to 50 developing tonight all busses in the Black Gold Regional Division will be cancelled.  However schools will be open.

We will keep you updated as information comes in.

.

 One of the most common mistakes amateurs make is improper alignment. Some think they should align their feet at the target, others try to get their shoulders parallel to it. Hey, some golfers try to align everything at the target! They’re all wrong.

The correct way to align your shots is to always begin by first assessing your target from behind the ball. This will give you a perspective of the entire hole and help you aim right where you want the ball to go. Secondly, before you make your actual stance, set the clubface behind the golf ball and align it directly at the target. Do this before, not after, you get into your stance. PGA Tour players have a knack for aligning the clubhead in this fashion. Pay attention to how they do it the next time you tune in.

After you have the right clubface alignment, then comes time to situate the rest of your body. Most players benefit from aligning their lower body left of the target line and their upper body parallel to the target line. There’s actually no right answer as to what works best for you, but one thing is for sure. Aligning your body directly at the target rarely works. It usually leads to crossovers and over-the-top swings. Keep your body aiming left of the target line, and experiment with what works best for you. But be sure to align that clubface first!

 (This is the first in our series of golf tips for your upcoming season from the experts at the Leduc Golf & Country Club. Currently we have just kicked off our new season’s membership drive, if you would like more information click here)

Due to a serious motor vehicle accident on Black Gold Drive on January 11 the Mix Aquatic Family Centre (LRC Pool) has limited hours from now until Monday. Regular scheduled programs will resume on Tuesday.

Hours are limited to allow staff to come to grips with the sudden and tragic loss of one of their co-workers.  They would like to extend their appreciation and understanding during this difficult time and they sincerely regret any inconvenience this may cause.

All other facilities in the LRC facilities are open and running as usual.
 

Hours of Operation

Jan 13, Friday - 6:00 - 9:00pm - Public Swim only - no programs offered

Jan 14, Saturday - Noon - 5:00pm Public Swim - all swimming lessons, swim clubs and Synchro are cancelled

Jan 15, Sunday - Noon - 5:00pm - Public Swim

Jan 16, Monday - OPEN 5:30 - Noon and 6:00pm - 10:00pm  CLOSED from Noon to 6:00pm

Regularly scheduled drop-in opportunities will be available during these revised hours, however all pre-registered swim programs will be cancelled that day.

Tuesday, Jan. 17
Regular schedule and programs will resume

There will be a Candlelight Vigil tonight in honour of Kathleen Wilson.

Location : By The Flower Beds On The Pool Side Of The LRC (Flower Beds Are On The Other Side Of The Entrance Near The Crosswalk, Due To Safety Concerns It Must Be Held Here).

RCMP Will Be Directing Traffic And Barricading Certain Parts Off To Keep Everyone Safe.

It Starts At 6 PM, Anyone Helping With Setup Should Be There Around 5:30 PM

For more information click here

Four Leduc firefighters will be facing cold temperatures next month to help raise awareness and funds for Muscular Dystrophy Canada in their second-annual Fire on the Roof campaign.

This year’s volunteer campers will be:

• Cpt. Harry Krabbes
• Firefighter Mike Skinner
• Firefighter Robert St. Ives
• Firefighter Sean Mason

"These four men are volunteering their time to support thousands of Canadians who are affected by neuromuscular disorders every year," says Karen Faryna, Fire on the Roof for MD committee chair. "Last year’s event created enormous community spirit among residents and city staff. We hope to continue this success into our second campaign."

The 2011 Fire on the Roof for MD raised more than $36,000, exceeding the $25,000 goal. This year’s goal is to raise $30,000. This event is a regional campaign with the City of Edmonton, City of Spruce Grove, City of St. Albert and Strathcona County.

For more information, visit Leduc.ca or call Leduc Fire Services (780) 980-7275.

Above are photos of Fire Fighters on the Roof from the 'Fire on the Roof campaign 2011'

Please take the time to participate in our survey

Join Leduc County business guys Jim D. and Andy. D Sunday mornings at 8:30am.

Each week you will hear the latest in NHL, NFL, MLB and sometimes NBA combined with local sports, news, views, and opinions. With contests, audience interactive games, and much more, these GUYS share the past weeks activities and get you ready for the week upcoming. MMA, FOOTBALL, and even College sports are not off limits. But to get your sports fix there's only one place to tune in locally and that's leducradio.com

With Jim's hieght, he is always looking up at the latest and greatest Sports information. With Andy's propensity for Desert Islands, he ia always alone with his point of view. But check them out each Sunday and get your Game up to Speed.

To Listen to previous broadcasts Click below

February 12, 2012 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)   (7)
February 5, 2012 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)

January 15, 2012 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)   (7)   (8)   (9)
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December 4, 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)   (7)   (8)   (9)   (10)   (11)
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November 6, 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)   (7)   (8)   (9)   (10)
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November 27, 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)   (7)   (8)   (9)   (10)   (11)

October 2, 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)
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October 23, 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)   (7)   (8)   (9)

September 25, 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)
September 18, 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)   (7)   (8)

 Leduc County Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) Bridges FASD Mentor program has been providing services to women 18 and over who have indicators or a diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder for nearly three years. Services include providing education and support to reduce or eliminate substance use, improving the client’s stability in their daily lives, reducing or preventing secondary disabilities subsequent to FASD, and working with community partners and regional service providers to develop resources and implement services.

Leduc County is pleased to announce that the Bridges program will now be expanding to provide services to men in Leduc County with strong indicators or a diagnosis of FASD.

The Bridges mentors promote, teach and model positive daily living skills to stabilize the clients’ lives by building a trusting relationship with them and their family members. Support and education is also provided to family members to help them understand FASD; the Bridges program works toward building a circle of security around the clients to provide ongoing support.

The Bridges program serves residents of Leduc County including the City of Leduc, Beaumont, Calmar, Thorsby, Warburg and Devon.

Thorsby Arctic Spas Rec Center Lunch December 15th 2011 (http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/19263272)

Interviews (http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/19260418)

Tour (http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/19263971)

Leduc’s 2012 Municipal Budget may see a tax increase as low as 4.6 per cent as of April 2012 (see attached 2012 Budget Backgrounder). Council directed administration on Dec. 12, 2011 to bring forward a proposal to reduce the tax increase by at least 1 per cent, bringing it to 4.6, when the mill rate is set this spring.

"Our priority is to look out for taxpayers and with the challenges of this budget we’ve directed administration to reduce taxes by 1 per cent," says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. "We must minimize the impact to citizens while balancing a growth of 42 per cent over the last five years and the significant costs of services we provide.

"A full 3 per cent of next year’s tax increase is necessary just to maintain current service levels for fire and ambulance," says Krischke.

During the Dec. 12, 2011 regular council meeting, they approved, in principle, a three-year Operating Budget, a five-year Capital Plan and a six to 10-year Capital Forecast. The anticipated tax rate increase of 4.6 per cent equates to an increase of about $88 for a home assessed at $300,000.

The City of Leduc’s budget process is unique as it includes the public budget committee comprised of all seven members of council and four Leduc citizens. Over three days, the committee reviews financials and presentations from all city business units to make recommendations to council for operating budgets and capital plan/forecasts. Leduc’s budget process also includes a three-year operational budget for greater year-over-year continuity.

 For more information go to the 2012 Budget Backgrounder.

 1. The 2012 Public Budget process resulted in a proposed tax increase of 7.2 per cent on Nov. 19, 2011. The breakdown is as follows:

          - 4.6 per cent for fire and ambulance services

          - 2.6 per cent for all remaining city departments

2. The increase was smoothed to 5.6 (1.6 per cent to be transferred from the mill rate stabilization reserve) during the regular council meeting on Dec. 12, 2011. The breakdown is as follows:

          - 3 per cent for fire and ambulance services

          - 2.6 per cent for all remaining city departments

3. During the same regular council meeting on Dec. 12, council provided further direction to administration to reduce the tax impact by at least 1 per cent to 4.6 by April 2012.

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

Operations Budget

The City of Leduc’s revenues are projected to be $66,331,288 for 2012; $68,860,102 for 2013; and $72,539,157 for 2014.

Operational budget highlights include:

• Sport and Agricultural Tourism funding increase of $30,000
• Environmental Plan funding of $5,000 for 2012 and $15,000 annually for operational costs, as well as $50,000 one-time funding for implementing the plan
• Marketing Strategy funding of $50,000
• Weed Control Pilot Project one-time funding of $22,000

Capital Budget

The 2012 – 2021 Capital Plan shows total spending of $212,344,974 with $103,655,900 currently unfunded. (Unfunded projects are flagged for future consideration, however are not approved at this time.)

The 10-year Capital Plan/Forecast includes:

• Continue installation of sidewalk para-ramps
• Installation of additional school-zone flashing signals, electronic speed-notification signage and pedestrian-crossing signs
• Begin implementation of the new Downtown Master Plan
• $25,000 allocated as seed money for administration to work with the community and potential partners on a future spray park
• Widening of 50 Avenue/Highway 39 from Highway 2 to Alton Drive to accommodate increased traffic volumes

Fees and Charges Revisions

The following fees and charges were increased in this budget to offset increasing service costs:

Leduc Recreation Centre:

• Memberships/admissions

          - Single admission rates increased by 3 per cent, $3.60 - $18.05 (from $3.50 - $17.50)

          - Monthly admission rates increased by 2 per cent, $23.20 - $116.05 (from $22.75 – $113.75)

          - Annual membership rates increased by 2 per cent, $232.05 - $1,160.25 (from $227.50 - $1,137.50)

• Arena and pool rentals

          - Ice surface rentals increase by 7 per cent on hourly rates

          - Aquatic program-based fees increase between 7 – 14 per cent

• New rates added:

          - Commercial/non-local ice rental $244.47/hour

          - Off-season Co-op Field House rate $69.55/hour

          - Daily room rentals for Ledcor and Rotary rooms

Utilities: The increase is $2.10/month per household based on an average consumption of 16 cu. m. The breakdown is as follows:

• Solid Waste (garbage and recycling): $0.50/month
• Water and Wastewater: $1.60/month

Meals on Wheels: Effective April 1 – Dec. 31, 2012, meals will increase by $1, from $8/meal to $9.

EDMONTON – ’Tis the season of celebratory gatherings and of influenza and norovirus.

With seasonal illness circulating, Alberta Health Services is reminding Albertans of routine precautions to protect health and prevent illness, this holiday season, and in the weeks and months ahead.

Get your influenza immunization: Immunization is the single most effective means of preventing influenza. It’s not too late to be immunized. All Albertans, six months of age and older, are eligible to receive immunization, free of charge. Visit www.albertahealthservices.ca for clinic dates, times and locations.

Clean your hands: Using soap and warm water, wash your hands thoroughly and often. Alcohol-based hand rub or sanitizers can also be helpful in warding off some – but not all – germs.

Stay home if you are sick: Individuals experiencing symptoms of illness, including fever, cough, diarrhea and/or vomiting, should stay home from work, school, daycare or any social function. If you, or anyone in your household, is experiencing illness refrain from visiting family, friends or loved ones in hospitals, care facilities or seniors lodges.

Around the house. If you are ill, do not prepare food for anyone, until fully recovered. Keep household surfaces (especially bedside tables and surfaces in the bathroom) clean, using a household disinfectant (follow directions on the product label). Think creatively when hosting gatherings: put a bow on a hand sanitizer pump and leave it out for guests to use; offer pre-wrapped candies or snacks instead of bowls of loose candies or snacks; thank others for declining invites due to illness.

For more information on influenza, influenza immunization, and other illnesses, visit www.albertahealthservices.ca or call Health Link Alberta, toll free at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than 3.7 million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

The City of Leduc is offering an online survey for citizens to have one last round of input on the draft Environmental Plan. The final public engagement opportunity will close Jan. 18, 2012

"We have gathered feedback from various public engagement sources that have been invaluable in shaping our city’s environmental priorities," says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. "And what we know, to-date, is that citizens want Leduc to be a municipal leader in environmental management, waste reduction, and air quality."

Leduc hired an environmental sustainability coordinator in July 2010 to oversee the city’s many environmental initiatives. The city’s environmental plan project began in January 2011. The draft report outlines a 10-year vision for a healthy and clean environment based on factual assessments of Leduc’s waste, water, land, air, noise and light, energy and climate change.

The draft report recommends Leduc:

• Develop an organic waste-collection system
• Continue the annual rain barrel program and initiate backyard composter program
• Create community resources for environmental education
• Develop a climate-change readiness plan
• Engage youth in local environmental initiatives
• Focus on internal operational priorities for environmental sustainability

"We’re already making great strides to lessen our impact on the environment. This plan not only solidifies previous efforts, but also provides a vision and future direction on how we can become better environmental leaders in the community and region," says Kevin Cole, director of engineering with the City of Leduc.

The final draft of the Environmental Plan is expected to go back to Leduc City Council in February 2012. Administration intends to roll out the plan after council approval.

Leduc, AB – Three-term Mayor of the City of Leduc and long standing Alberta community leader, Greg Krischke today announced he is running to be a Senator in waiting from Alberta.

“I am a strong believer in an elected Senate and would like to apply my knowledge and experience in business and public life as a Senator from our province, and for our country,” said Krischke. “It is a challenge I am ready for, and I am prepared to commit my energy and experience to the nomination, and to the role of Senator in the future.”

"Greg is a broad thinker, a consensus builder and a great asset to the region. He would make an excellent senator, " said City of Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel in support of Krischke’s candidacy.

The first step will be to secure one of the Alberta Progressive Conservative Party Nominee positions and then prepare for the provincial election expected in the spring of 2012.

“I am an Albertan who is proud that this province has been Canada’s strongest champion for Senate reform, ” said Krischke. “Alberta is critical to our country’s economic stability and growth and I believe we need strong voices in the nation’s Senate that understand Alberta intimately, both rural and urban. Our Senate needs those who have been on the front lines of community building to ensure that its role as the ‘chamber of sober second thought’ knows and reflects real life issues and real life solutions.”

Mayor Krischke is excited about this opportunity and will be talking directly to all of those who will be playing a key role in selecting the ballot for senators.

Seems many more listeners actually don’t change the dial when the commercials come on than commonly perceived: Expanding on a landmark 2006 study, Arbitron, Media Monitors and Coleman Insights studied 18 million commercial breaks across 48 markets and found radio delivers more than 93% of its lead-in audience during the average commercial break. 62 million minutes of commercials and 866 stations for a year of audience data from all 48 PPM markets compared the audience level for each minute of a commercial break to the audience for the minute before the spots began.

“What Happens When the Spots Come On: 2011” is a comprehensive update of a landmark 2006 study on the radio audience behaviour during commercial breaks. Both studies took advantage of the increased precision of passive electronic measurement, both for radio audiences and for commercial occurrences.

The 2011 study of minute-by-minute audience levels disputed the common misperception among advertisers, agencies and even radio executives that audiences during commercial breaks are a fraction of the numbers that were listening to the station just before the commercials began.

Details:
One to three-minute commercial breaks deliver radio audiences levels that are practically the same as the lead-in audience. The average minute audience during one-minute breaks is equal to the lead-in audience for that break; two-minute breaks deliver 99% of their lead-in average minute audiences; and three-minute breaks deliver 96% of their lead-in audience levels.

Longer spot breaks of four to six minutes-plus delivered an average minute audience that was nearly 90% of the lead-in audience. Four-minute breaks delivered 92% of the lead-in audience; five-minute breaks delivered 87%. Even spot breaks of six minutes or longer delivered an average minute audience that was 85% of the audience level before the commercials began.

Among teens and persons aged 18-24, radio delivers nearly 90% of its lead-in audience during commercial breaks. Among people age 65 and older, radio delivers 98% of the lead-in audience once the commercials come on.

Dedication to morning show talent/traffic/news
Spot breaks in morning drive deliver 97% of their lead-in audience, on average. The higher percentage during mornings is driven by shorter commercial breaks during morning compared with other time periods and the higher number of people who are first tuning into radio early in the day than those who tune out.

There is little difference by market in terms of the average audience delivery during commercial breaks. Of the 48 markets studied, three markets with the highest percentage delivered an average of 95% of their lead-in audience levels during commercial breaks and the three markets with the smallest percentage delivered an average of 91% of their lead-in audience levels. Audience delivery during commercial breaks was consistent throughout the year. Radio commercial breaks delivered between 93% and 94% of lead-in audience levels during each month of the year.

These findings stand in stark contrast to the perceptions of the advertiser/agency industry and even of radio broadcasters about the impact of commercials on the radio audience. In a web poll conducted by Arbitron and Coleman Insights, people identifying themselves as members of the advertiser/agency industry (362 responses) said that, on average, the size of the audience during a radio commercial break is only 68% of the size of the audience before the commercial began. On average, respondents identifying themselves as members of the radio industry (1,178 responses) believe radio holds only 78% of the audience during commercials.

RBR-TVBR observation: The immediacy of PPM measurement packs a lot of powder into this report. Yes, there is tune-out during spot breaks, but this also shows the replenishment/tune in from other listeners during these breaks. With PPM we’re now able to take a look at listening levels of spot breaks like Nielsen’s C3 measurement, and the news is good. But bottom line, the more clutter during a spot break, the more listeners you lose. So it’s best to sell more mentions with on-air talent. It’s very effective and the listener doesn’t get as easily annoyed by the pitch

 The City of Leduc ranks number one for funds raised in the 2011 Movember campaign for Monicipalities (Government Employee Challenge). Each year, November turns into ‗Movember‘ to raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer research. As of Dec. 2, 2011, the City of Leduc Movember team, including eight city staff members, raised $7,609.

―Even though many of us sacrificed our faces, social status and pride, it pales in comparison to the amount of men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year in Canada,‖ says Jason Simituk, City of Leduc Movember team captain. ―This is our third year as a team and I‘m very proud of what we‘ve accomplished.‖

This year‘s Movember team included:

• Darrell Melvie
• Brian Loewen
• Jason Simituk
• Sean Haughian
• Cory Labrecque
• Joel McDonald
• Rick Salt
• Roger Bredeson

More than 270 people registered this year under the government employee challenge and four of the city‘s team members ranked in the top 10 for individual donations; Melvie ($2,030), Loewen ($1,058), Simituk ($1,033) and Haughian ($1,024). The national Movember campaign of more than 246,000 registrants raised $37,813,321 putting Canada in first place. The City of Leduc team ranked 571 in the country.

The cities of Leduc and Fort Saskatchewan are working together to prepare their respective land-use bylaws. The Province of Alberta has awarded a Regional Collaboration Program (RCP) grant of $175,000 to support this innovative project.

“This is a first for municipal government in this province,” says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. “This unique approach allows Leduc and Fort Saskatchewan to take advantage of similar development issues that can be researched to a higher level together, than they could be individually.”

Land-use bylaws are generally linked to other policy documents and regular updating is required. In addition, the Capital Region Board created a Capital Region Growth Plan (CRGP) with common policy and principles that need to be incorporated into each municipal land-use bylaw.

“It’s critical that each land-use bylaw be aligned to support these policy documents,” says Gale Katchur, mayor of Fort Saskatchewan.

The first draft of each city’s new land-use bylaw is expected this December with a final draft slated for June 2012.

To listen to the recording (Click Here)

Watch the breakfast highlights now - http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/18728195

Leduc Nisku - "Meet Your Maker"

Watch the Conference Now - http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/18719809

Local Food Industry Background:

While Alberta’s Capital Region is focused on the development of international trade opportunities for businesses in its region, the impressive growth in demand for local food is a market that can’t be ignored.  The Local Food Industry projects that both domestic and international food markets will continue to grow in the coming years resulting in a range of value added economic development opportunities directly related to food export; and while there may be some adjustments required in pursuing both the domestic and international markets, it is believed that the development of local food market opportunities will enhance the capacity of food related businesses in our region to capitalize on international opportunities as they use domestic markets to incubate their growth. 

Capital Region Local Food Initiative (CRLFI) Project Description:  

The CRLFI was launched in April 2010 as a joint agreement between the Community Futures Capital Region, Leduc Nisku Economic Development Authority (LNEDA), the City of Leduc, and the County’s of Leduc, Strathcona, Sturgeon, Parkland, and Lamont.  Funding for the CRLFI and the Food Inventory Tracking System (FITS) component comes from Community Futures Rural Diversification Initiative, Rural Alberta Adaptiation Grant, Government of Alberta Leduc Food Processing Centre, Leduc Nisku EDA plus the afore mentioned regional partners that make up the Agri-Business ‘CRLFI Steering Committee’.  The Leduc Nisku EDA acts as the secretariat and facilitating agency to provide administrative, financial and operational accountability and transparency during the project’s seed funding cycle which ends March 31, 2012.   

The purpose of the CRLFI is to establish a stand along sustainable organization structure that could act as a ‘Local Food Development Council’ of sorts to support the growing demand for local food and to help develop a competitive, sustainable local food economy in Alberta’s Capital Region.  How this would be accomplished would be by:

·         examining the region’s capacity to produce products for the local market; strengthen marketing capabilities vis-a-vis the local market; and increase awareness of local food market opportunities;

·         engaging in activities that will help to establish value chains for distinct, new local food products and support the scaling up of existing local food production at a regional level;

·         identifying and creating opportunities for local producers and processors to connect directly not only with each other, but with other critical elements of the agri-food value chain including financiers, distributors, retailers, food service and ultimately with consumers; and

·         looking to develop opportunities to support and grow local agri-food businesses both locally and regionally in an effort to create a strong, diversified and sustainable local food economy. 

Leduc Radio Advertising Packages

1.    Keep it Simple -  4 Ads per day – 30 seconds per ad = $225.00/month 

2.    Standard Rotation - 6 Ads per day – 30 seconds per ad = $360.00/month 

3.    High impact – 6 Ads per day – 30 seconds per Ad plus a regular feature sponsorship = $860.00/month

*Book any monthly Ad for 3 months pre-paid and receive 5% off.

*Book any monthly Ad for 6 months pre-paid and receive 10% off.

Basic Year Round Prices

$2.00 – 30 second ads (Changes in ads per month are at an additional $20.00 charge for each ad)

We record your commercial with you in our studio.

How can we offer low-price ads?

We keep it simple, one time charges, one-time payment, one set of commercials. These components are just a few ways we keep our costs low so that our advertisers can always get the best value.

Payment options:

We accept Visa, Mastercard, Cheques and Cash.

Additional Pricing:

Detailed Reporting

For $35.00 per month we can supply you with a monthly report of what times your ads ran daily. (To be requested prior to ads running)

Commercial Changes

All of our Ads are ran on a monthly basis, if you would like to change your ads within the month there is a charge of $20.00 per commercial change.

Sponsorship Options

Leduc Radio has variety of options for sponsorship. There are many sponsorship opportunities to choose from, it all depends on what your business needs are.

-       Regular Features that have high rotation such as News, Sports, Weather, Community announcements

-       New weekly radio talk shows that feature different topics

-       Special Features such as Contests and Giveaways, daily or weekly

-       Leduc Riggers Video Broadcast for 2012/2013 Season Home Games.

 Sponsorship is just as effective as commercial ads if your objective is to create awareness of your business. Name recognition only adds to your success as a business, our listeners may not be in the market for your product today but when they are they will go to the business that they feel comfortable with. A consumers’ comfort often starts with name recognition.

If you have any questions or are unsure take a few minutes and talk to us, let the professionals at Leduc Radio fit the right Sponsorship with your needs.

 **Minimum of a 4 month commitment is required on Sponsorships

Contact us at 780-669-3253 or e-mail kirk@leducradio.com

Join us each week as Tracey Gould, Business & Industry Liaison from Alberta Human Service and Alberta Works, and Carol Devries, Career & Employment Consultant from Alberta Human Service and Alberta Works, discuss our Local and Regional employment solutions and opportunities.
 
Hear what employers are looking for today, how to prepare for employment opportunities and what opportunities are now available for you along with so much more!

If you are looking for an exciting career opportunity, want to promote your job opening, or just need to know how to best prepare, this show is for you.  This show allows us to pass the message about Leduc County and the Region and its many opportunities.
 
Tune in each week on Thursday at 9:30am, or to hear past episodes click on one of the links below.

If you are an employer and want your job opening broadcast during our show or throughout the week contact the office on the link provided. click here

To Listen To A Previous Show Click Below

September 15th 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)   (7)   (8)
                    21st 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)   (5)   (6)   (7)

November   17th 2011 -- (1)   (2)   (3)   (4)

Riseup ministries has a grant opportunity with Aviva community Fund, and all they need is your ONLINE VOTE EACH DAY! 

In order to receive this funding to support a year's worth of specialized support group programming for women impacted by family violence and abuse, we need only to collect votes from people like you until Dec. 17th.

Register at www.avivacommunityfund.org

After you have registered, search for idea#12490, called Rise Up, and place your vote.   You are allowed one vote per person (per e-mail address) daily

Thank You For Voting!

For more information call 780-739-7473.

The City of Leduc is pleased to introduce 360-degree video tours of every major venue in the Leduc Recreation Centre (LRC).

“High-definition, virtual tours are easy to use and have already become an indispensable marketing to ol.  These tours are a very important online feature significantly expanding our potential to attract more events to the region,” says Roger Smolnicky, LRC director. “The opportunity to see venues before booking them is also deeply appreciated by our long-distance clients.”

The new 360-degree tour provides a virtual experience for nine facility venues:

• BMO Curling Rink
• DQ Arena
• Exterior east entrance
• Leduc County field house
• Main hallway
• Mix Family Aquatic Centre
• S&D Fitness Centre
• Sobeys Arena
• Venger Boardroom

“Our online virtual tours offer potential customers vivid insights into the remarkable capabilities of this to host a diversity of successful events,” says Smolnicky.

Visit leducleisure.com to take a tour or call (780) 980-7120 for more information.

On November 11, 2011 at approximately 3:30 pm the Leduc RCMP received a complaint from a concerned motorist about an erratic driver heading south on the Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Highway near Leduc.

Christmas Commercials are now available at the low price of $240.00.

Your Commercial will run 6 times per day from November 28 to December 24, 2011.

Give us a call and set up your appointment today!!

780-669-3253 or e-mail sharon@leducradio.com

 Let the County of Leduc know that your blessings are with them during this Holiday Season.

It’s so easy you don’t even have to leave your office. All you need to do is call our recording line and leave a Greeting and we will produce it with Christmas music and put it on the air.  

Not simple enough, we will even write it for you.  Check out some samples to get you started.

Business

“The folks at (Company Name) and their staff want to wish you a Merry Christmas.  May the coming year bring you happiness and fulfillment."

Religious

 "As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, all the staff at (Company Name) want to wish you and your family the holiest and happiest of Christmas seasons."

Christmas Spirit

 "Seasons Greetings!! My name is (your name), on behalf of myself and the staff at (company name) would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year."

If you are able to get your recording in by November 24th we will debut it at the Alexandra Arena the night of the Leduc Regional Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade.

Your Recording will air 4 times per day until Dec. 31, for only $125.00.

Call our recording line  – 780-628-6311

Many residents in the south park area woke up on the morning of October 29th, 2011 to find that sometime throughout the night, the tires on their vehicles had been slashed. Some residents had more than one vehicle damaged. It appears as though vandals targeted vehicles mainly on the east side of South park near 41st and 43 A avenue.

The senseless act of vandalism had many vehicle owners frustrated throughout the morning as they were forced to make alternative transportation arrangements. Leduc RCMP received calls from nearly a dozen people reporting damage to their tires.

 Leduc RCMP are investigating these incidents and are asking for the public’s assistance. Anyone with information about these incidents or who is responsible are asked to contact the Leduc RCMP at (780) 980-7267.

 If you wish to remain anonymous, you can provide your information through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or go online to www.tipsubmit.com

 If your information leads to the successful arrest of an offender, you could qualify for a cash reward.

Leduc will be the official home to the 2012 Scott FireFit Northern Alberta Regional Championships, June 9 – 10, 2012. This event is expected to attract more than 100 firefighters from across Canada.

“Scott FireFit is considered the toughest two minutes in sport,” says Leduc Fire Chief Ernie Polsom. “Over the past five years, Leduc firefighters have travelled to compete in this competition, and now we’re pleased to be hosting next year’s event.”

FireFit is open to all firefighters as they go head-to-head showcasing regular ground tasks utilized at fire scenes. Competitors try to outrun each other as they go through the tasks in sequence.

“Regional fire departments can really benefit from this event as it’s an opportunity to have fun with fellow firefighters and network with departments from across Canada,” says Polsom.

Along with the FireFit Championships, two other competitions will also be held: Paramedic First on Scene and TopCop. These additional events are open to all paramedic and law enforcement officials in Canada.

The City of Leduc will need many volunteers to ensure these events are a success. Register online with Volunteer Leduc at Leduc.ca/volunteers if you would like to get involved.

For more information on this event, call (780) 980-7275.

This is a frequently asked question that we are asked on a regular basis. The answer is yes we can. There are many ways that we can be of assistance and we would love to be involved, below is just some of the ways that Leducradio.com can be of assistance.

While reading through please remember the key to reaching a radio audience is REPEAT, REPEAT, REPEAT.

Public service announcements (PSA’s)

PSA’s are free to any not for profit organizations and Non Government Organization’s (NGO’s) but subject to availability.

The key to effective PSA’s is getting them in the rotation far enough in advance to reach a broad listening audience. There is usually a big effort to plan, structure and organization if you are looking to get people involved. Why not give them enough advance warning to pique their interest and allow them to plan their schedule to be involved?  This is why we request organizations not to call last minute to get announcement on air, we can do it, but it is not effective.

To get your PSA into the rotation, call our ‘recording line’ at 780-628-6311 and leave a message.

An example of your message would be:

 “Hi this is (your name) with (organization) on (date of event/activity) we are (event/activity information). For more information you can call 780-xxx-xxxx.”�

Each message should be between 30-60 seconds.

Promoting Your Cause / Group

Many Groups/Associations approach us in hopes of getting Leducradio.com to assist in promoting their projects or activities. Even though your service is truly valued there are many people who still don’t know what it is that your group does or how it is done. Often they don’t know why they should get involved or even how rewarding it can be to be involved. The people you already have working with you already understand but as you already know, to have continued success, it is important to keep bringing in new volunteers. It takes work to get people aware and interested to get involved, however if you are prepared to do the work then we can be of assistance.

Together we can put together different types of announcement as well as a radio show about your organization / group. Below is a list of what is involved in really getting your information out there to our listeners. Subject to availability, please take a look at the following:

• Advance PSA’s for upcoming broadcast.
• Web Site announcement for upcoming show.
• Facebook / Twitter announcements for upcoming show.
• Email / Newsletter for upcoming show.
• Show Template – each segment is approximately 20 minutes long.

(This is an adjustable template)

1. Interview with National/Regional Organization
2. Interview with impacted family/person
3. Interview with Researcher
4. Interview with impacted family/person
5. Interview with care giver/nurse
6. Interview with local organization
7. Interview with impacted family/person
8. Interview with upcoming event organizer

PSA’s for the Upcoming Radio Show

If we can get this particular event recorded at least 3-4 weeks in advance, there is an opportunity for Leducradio.com to re-broadcast (possibly a couple times.) The key, up to the first broadcast, is for both Leducradio.com and your Group/Organization to get people to tune in. The more interest and hype we can create, as well as the more effort we do to get people to check out the show, the better the impact. We suggest that you continue to do this year after year; this will allow your organization to continue to give out information as well as anything new that has come up in the past year.

Fundraising

We can help with your fundraising initiatives in a number of ways. (Subject to availability)

• PSAs for your upcoming event
• Live Call In Auction
• MC of local event
• Linking you with one of our regular scheduled shows for interview purposes

Remotes (Live Onsite)

In the old days valued clients would approach their local media and ask for remote coverage for a cause that was important to them, typically the local station would do these events in part because they were helping out a valued client. A big reason for this is cost; remotes cost the station significant dollars.

We will do remotes, however Leduc Radio only has so many resources to dedicate towards these types of initiatives. For Non-profits and NGO’s who want or need this type of service we do offer significant discounts or 50/50 sponsorship / cost remote packages.

Remote Frequently Asked Questions.

Are we effective on location? - YES.

Can we provide sound and lights when required? - YES.

Can we broadcast Live? - Typically. (Subject to availability & Technology)

Follow up PSA / Interview

It is important to get all of the information out to the public about who you are what you do and why it is important to get involved. We believe it is also important for our listeners to know what their impact has done for the community. We request that when all the numbers / statistics are in that you call our ‘recording line’ and give our listeners a quick update on how their dedication has made an impact, this is also an opportunity to thank those who were involved. If you prefer an interview just simply set up an appointment with us.

In conclusion, helping your Group/Association to give more public awareness is one of our prime objectives. It is one of the big reasons why we do what we do. With your assistance, our ability to successfully promote your special interest needs in Leduc County is unmatched by any other media that serves our Community. We look forward to hearing from you and discussing how we may be of assistance.

The City of Leduc is proud to have an award-winning lightweight bodybuilder in its fold. Brandy Schroeder, a Leduc Recreation Centre (LRC) fitness and personal trainer, returned home on Oct. 29, 2011 from the Alberta Bodybuilding Association’s 2011 Muscle Beach Fall Classic with two medals, first in Women’s Lightweight and third place in the Women’s Masters.

"It’s a phenomenal accomplishment for Brandy and we’re very proud of her as it takes a lot of dedication and discipline to reach this level," says Jackie Kamlah, acting director of the LRC. "She is a strong representative of our facility and our community as she demonstrates that anything can be achieved with positive and healthy goals."

These medals have qualified Schroeder to compete on the provincial and national stage for bodybuilding in June and August 2012.

Schroeder has been in the physical fitness industry for almost two decades. This was her first competition in 12 years

NISKU, AB – Leduc County and the City of Leduc encourage residents to take one day to celebrate the children in their lives. In honour of National Child Day, Leduc Regional Parent Link will host a family event on November 19 complete with pancake breakfast and engaging family activities. Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and of course children are invited to attend.

NATIONAL CHILD DAY CELEBRATION – EVENT INFORMATION:

DATE: Saturday, November 19

TIME: 9‐11:30 a.m. (pancakes served from 9‐10 a.m.)

PLACE: Leduc Alliance Church (5503 Black Gold Drive, Leduc)

"There seems to be a day for other people in our lives else like mothers, fathers, and grandparents, but why not celebrate those who bring us so much joy? National Child Day allows us to do that," says Tonya Sabourin Leduc Regional Parent Link Coordinator. "We invite you to mark the occasion with this special event not only to celebrate your children, but also to encourage you to become more engaged in their lives."

"This event will not only highlight National Child Day, but will also provide an opportunity for families to bond with their children and discover what makes them so special," says Tabitha White, Manager of Family and Community Support Services with the City of Leduc. "We encourage residents to spend some quality time with the children in their lives, celebrate their uniqueness and help them reach their full potential."

November 20 is National Child Day as designated by the federal government to commemorate the adoption of the United Nations’ Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.

"We must protect and nurture our children as they represent our future and we must recognize the important role that families and our communities in this region play in raising our children," says Sabourin.

The rights of the child are as follows:

Protection: Children have the right to be protected from abuse, neglect, exploitation and discrimination.

Provision: Children have the right to an adequate standard of living, health care and to play.

Participation: Children have the right to express their views about things that affect them and to participate in communities, programs and services.

The City of Leduc has entered into a unique partnership with Alberta Health Services (AHS) to offer a healthy lifestyle program educating children, parents and caregivers about proper nutrition, portion sizes and the importance of active play. Two ‘Mind, Exercise, Nutrition…Do It!’ (MEND) programs will be delivered through the Leduc Recreation Centre starting January 2012.

“We’re very excited to offer this new and unique program to Leduc,” says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. “This is made possible due to an important partnership with AHS and further demonstrates our commitment to promote healthy, active living for our children and youth.”

MEND classes for two to four-year-olds run for 90 minutes/week for 10 weeks. Each session will include active play and snack time providing an opportunity for children and parents to interact. Session topics include healthy eating for families, mealtime struggles, portion sizes and healthy habits.

The second MEND program is for older children, seven to 13-year-olds, and their families will focus on skills to make positive lifestyle changes, active living and healthy eating. Participants will learn about nutrition, behaviour change and game-based exercise. Session topics include unrefined versus refined grains,  fats and sugars, label reading, goals and rewards, and a grocery store tour. The twice-weekly class will run for 10 weeks.

Leduc is only one in five communities across Alberta to offer this free program in partnership with AHS. No referrals are needed to participate, however parent/caregiver participation is required for both programs.

For more information and to register on these MEND programs, email jbouchard@leduc.ca or call (780) 980-8454.

The inter-municipal C-Line transportation service has experienced a steady increase in ridership in its inaugural year. According to Kevin Wenzel, manager of public transportation with the City of Leduc, monthly ridership numbers began at 1,972 in November 2010 and reached 3,143 as of October 2011.

“The service carried more than 30,000 riders in its first year. This is an exceptional number for the service level provided,” says Wenzel.

Based on the positive statistics, Leduc and Leduc County will explore future service enhancements with the valuable feedback from users. The municipalities will also seek public input to identify additional service needs and community demands.

C-Line commuter buses offer four morning and four afternoon trips every weekday between Leduc, Nisku, Edmonton International Airport and Edmonton (Century Park). This service is funded by Leduc (65 per cent) and Leduc County (35 per cent) to provide a convenient, affordable transit service for all residents, students and regional workers.

“Public transportation is an important indicator of a municipality’s ability to handle growth,” says Wenzel. “It provides citizens with a cost-effective mobility option while achieving significant energy savings and environmental gains.”

Edmonton International Airport will again be receiving flights of returning overseas military troops from November 4 to December 16, with thirteen flights planned for late afternoon or early evening arrival. As EIA is the direct entry point to Canada for these flights, they will be escorted by CF-18 fighter jets. In the past, the CF-18 presence during these operations has generated noise concerns from the surrounding communities, however the arrivals are scheduled to lessen the potential for concerns. The outgoing message on the EIA noise concern line to describe this important activity, and will continue to immediately respond to noise concerns when received.

To report airport noise concerns at Edmonton International Airport please call 780 890 8175.

The City of Leduc, in partnership with the Leduc Regional Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce two upcoming holiday events for the Leduc and surrounding communities:

Event 1

WHAT: Festival of Trees

WHEN: Nov. 18 – 19, 2011

WHERE: Leduc Recreation Centre (4330 Black Gold Drive, Leduc)

COST: Free

“Festival of Trees offers many family-centric activities to build excitement in the community leading up to the holiday season,” says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. “We’re very pleased to be the sponsor of this inaugural event at the Leduc Recreation Centre.”

This event includes Sights and Sounds of the Season, Santa’s Workshop, Kids Winter Magic, Winter Wonderland, a Christmas Market, O’Christmas Tea and an Elves’ Pancake Breakfast. Two evening events are also planned: Jingle Bell Rock Tween Disco and a Crystal Ball Black Tie Gala.

Event 2

WHAT: Santa Claus Parade

WHEN: Nov. 25, 2011 (7 p.m.)

WHERE: Parade route begins at grain elevator, concluding at the Alexandra Park

COST: Free

Following this year’s parade, spectators can participate in a variety of events hosted in the Alexandra Arena and park. Events include free indoor and outdoor skating (depending on the weather), real reindeer, and horse-drawn sleigh rides around the park. People keep warm with free hotdogs and hot chocolate. Santa Claus will also be available for photos.

The parade route begins at the grain elevator, proceeding west on 50 Avenue, south on 50 Street, ending at Alexandra Park.

6:00-9:00pm

Devon Lions Campground

Nestled among the trees and along the shores of the North Saskatchewan River is the Devon Lions Park, just 20 minutes southwest of Edmonton. This is the ideal location to leave the hectic holiday pace behind and to embrace the true Christmas Spirit of yesteryear. Families will spend quality time together and re-discover the meaning of Christmas. Feel the holiday stress leave and peace return as the whole family connects to what is the most important thing in the universe…each other! The only uniquely designed candle luminary in the Capital region will once again light up the night at the Town of Devon’s annual Christmas in the Park celebration. The design is 25m x 40m and visible from the air!

Activities:

- Visit with Santa and his reindeer-in-training

- Candle luminary

- Horse drawn hay rides

- Maple syrup taffy

- Chilli, hot dogs and hot chocolate

- Children’s craft centre & Cookie decorating

- Christmas carols

- Old fashioned tea boiling contest

- Bonfires

Free Park ‘n’ Ride from the Devon mall on Athabasca Avenue (exception: handicap parking is available in the Lions Park). Event admission $4/adult, $2/child (under 3 is free), a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Devon’s Christmas Elves which put together food and toy hampers for the less fortunate in the community. The remaining proceeds will be re-invested into Christmas in the Park. Event admission and food and toy donations will be collected at the Park ‘n’ Ride site.

***Participants can enter to win a prize of return flights for two people courtesy of WestJet!!!***

Beaumont, AB – The Town of Beaumont has begun the process of rewriting its Land Use Bylaw (LUB) with public input that will start in November.

“The LUB is a statutory document which provides the Town with a tool to regulate and control the use and development of land and buildings in the community,” says Brenda Matthews, Development Officer for the Town of Beaumont. “Because the LUB affects every landowner in Town, it is extremely important that we hear from residents, business owners, homebuilders and any other community interest groups regarding the proposed changes.”

To provide more information, obtain feedback and opinions the Town will be sending out letters with the November utility bill, conducting an online survey, and holding three open houses early in 2012. Feedback and comments will be communicated to Council prior to adopting a new Land Use Bylaw.

Some of the significant changes proposed to the LUB are:

• Secondary Suites and Garage Suites as Discretionary Uses in Residential Districts.
• Increasing the front yard setback for garages in Residential Districts from 6.0 metres to 6.5 metres facilitating larger vehicles parking on driveways.
• Consolidating the 10 different single family Residential Districts to three, thus streamlining the process.
• Blending four Commercial Districts into three.

“All current homes will only be affected by renaming the land use Districts, for example R14-Residential Detached Single Family (14m) District being renamed to R1-A-Single Detached Residential District,” says Matthews.

Beaumont’s current Land Use Bylaw was adopted in 1997 and, since that time, the community has experienced high growth rates. Over the last 15 years there have also been changes to industry standards and new technologies in home building and construction. The new LUB will integrate these changes as well as taking into account legislation from the Capital Region Board (CRB).

The LUB divides the Town into specific Districts that dictate what uses are permitted and/or discretionary. The document contains details on how to make applications for development permits; how and by whom decisions on applications are made; and the conditions that can be attached. The LUB also contains regulations regarding setbacks, landscaping, parking, and building heights to name only a few.

Starting on Nov. 4 Edmonton International Airport (EIA) will again be receiving flights of returning overseas military troops, with 13 flights planned for late afternoon or early evening arrival (between Nov. 4 - Dec. 16). As EIA is the direct entry point to Canada for these flights, the arriving troops will be escorted by CF-18 fighter jets, as had been done previously. The arrivals are scheduled to lessen the potential for noise inconveniences.

City of Leduc Family and Community Support Services is hosting a two-part learning series on family violence and bullying.

The first event about bullying is open to the public at no cost. The second event targets social services professionals and has a registration fee of $15 per person. The series recognizes November as National Family Violence Prevention Month and National Bullying Awareness Week (Nov. 13 – 19, 2011).

Session 1 (open to public)

WHAT: Dialogue: The Golden Rule, presented by Betty Wedman

WHEN: Nov. 16, 2011 (7 p.m. – doors open at 6:30 p.m.)

WHERE: Telford House (4907 – 46 Street, Leduc)

COST: Free

“Betty Wedman will be speaking about her son’s experience with bullying,” says Tabitha White, manager of family and community support services. “The issue of bullying is brought to the forefront, along with the impact of bullies, and the actions and choices people make daily when dealing with bullying behaviour.”

This workshop includes a question-and-answer session with a panel of local experts. Resource materials will also be available for all participants.

Session 2 (closed to public)

WHAT: The Biology of Interpersonal Violence, presented by Jacqui Linder

WHEN: Nov. 17, 2011 (1:30 - 4 p.m. - doors open at 1:15 p.m.)

WHERE: details upon registration

COST: $15/person

“The second workshop is closed to the public. It specifically targets the social services sector and its staff to provide comprehensive training in the neurobiology of traumatic stress,” says White.

Refreshments will be provided for each session. To register for either workshop, call (780) 980-7109.

The City of Leduc advises motorists that 65 Avenue will be closed Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. This temporary road closure will accommodate important rail repairs on 65 Avenue.

City staff will be assisting CP Rail with installation of barricades and roadway repairs once the rail repair is complete.

This crossing is expected to return to normal operations by 5 p.m. on Thursday, unless unforeseen circumstances arise.

For more information, call (780) 980-7177.

Exercise prescriptions are now a viable option when visiting a local doctor under the new ‘Prescription to Get Active’ program. This project is piloted by the City of Leduc and the Leduc Beaumont Devon Primary Care Network (PCN).

"This is a unique partnership between family physicians and the community to highlight the significance of regular exercise as an integral component of healthy living, disease prevention and the management of many chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease," says Len Frank, Executive Director of the Leduc Beaumont Devon Primary Care Network. "Physicians often prescribe medications to treat diseases. Through this program, they can prescribe exercise to their patients in the same way to signify the importance of exercise in both preventing and managing numerous chronic diseases."

This partnership includes 50 local family physicians who are members of the PCN. Patients who need more physical activity are given a physician’s prescription for a complementary one-month membership to the Leduc Recreation Centre (LRC). Patients can choose any LRC activity, such as swimming, walking or strength training.

"Promoting healthy lifestyles to prevent diseases is a routine component of the care family physicians provide to their patients every day," says Frank. "This program demonstrates the collective commitment of family physicians and the City of Leduc to improving the health and wellness of the communities we serve."

The program’s objective is simple: to get patients more active. "There is very strong scientific evidence that physical activity improves health and quality of life, as well as significantly reduces the risks of chronic disease, disability and premature death" says Dr. Michael Gault, president of the PCN.

The ‘Prescription to Get Active’ program began in October 2011 and will extend through the summer of 2012.

"This innovative partnership between primary care physicians and a major recreation centre may be unique in Canada," says Roger Smolnicky, LRC director. "We believe the results of this pilot project will affirm the importance of physical recreation as a vital strategy to achieve and maintain good health."

National Finalist in the 10,001 – 20,000 Population Category

 5 Blooms

 Special Mention: Continuous trails and pathways system

 The Town of Beaumont, a finalist in the 10,001 – 20,000 population category of the 2011 National Edition of Communities in Bloom, received a 5 Bloom rating and a special mention ­for Continuous trails and pathways system.

Following their evaluation of the community, volunteer judges Sandy Cairns (Gravenhurst, ON) and Odette Sabourin-Dumais (Saint-Bruno, QC) wrote:

Beaumont is a vibrant, supportive and caring community with a family-friendly atmosphere. Located minutes south of the City of Edmonton, Beaumont is one of Canada’s Top 20 fastest growing communities. The average age of Beaumont’s population is 31.1 years. One quarter of the population is under the age of 14.  Diverse parks facilities and a network of 23 km of trails and pathways are distributed throughout the community for the young families’ enjoyment. They are well planned and landscaped and link to subdivisions, schools and recreational amenities.

The line-up of NHL alumni, Canadian rodeo champions and CCMA artists’ have been announced for Gord Bamford’s 2nd annual Pics and Sticks Charity Hockey event, scheduled for Saturday, November 5, 2011.

Joining Bamford from Canada’s country music industry are Chad Klinger, Shane Yellowbird and Jordan Doell.

Theoren Fleury is heading up the roster of players that will be representing NHL alumni. Those players include: Dave Manson, Dave Lumley and Pete Vandermeer. Correne Bredin from the Women's National Hockey Team will also be playing at the event.

There are several players joining the event from the Canadian Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. They include: Davey Shields Jr. (Bareback Champion), Kyle Thomson (SaddleBronc and Steer Wrestling), Steve Thieson (Team Roping and Calf Roping), Straws Milan (Steer Wrestling), Ash Cooper (Rodeo Clown, Bull Fighter and Cowboy Artist), Rod Warren (Saddle Bronc) and Travis Gallais (Team Roping Champion).

Canadian Country music artist Brett Kissel and CISN Country FM’s Mike McGuire will be emceeing the event. Rounding out the teams will be corporate players John Windwick, vice president from ATB Financial and Ryan Balanecki from Performance Paving. Sean Burke from CISN Country FM and 790 CFCW’s AJ Keller along with Ryan Jespersen from Breakfast Television have also signed on to play at the event.

The event referees are NHL alumni ref Randy Mitton and local area ref Dean Heck.

The two day event kicks off on November 4 with a Friday evening family concert featuring rising country star, Brett Kissel along with various artists and A Taste Of Leduc. The event was moved to a weekend to allow families to attend the weekend’s events. There will be roving street performances, local Leduc restaurants showcasing their culinary talents, School National Anthem Singing contest, and other family friendly activities such as face painting, balloon fairies, and the GB Pics & Sticks tattoo booth.

Admission to Saturday afternoon’s events are free, with tickets for the evening concert set at $25, with $15 for hockey game tickets. You can save five dollars and purchase an All Event Pass for $35. Tickets are available now for purchase on line at www.leduc.ca or for purchase directly at the LRC at 780-980-7120.

Sponsorship and business player opportunities are available. Contact Corinne Szepesi for more details.

More about the GB Pics & Sticks event can be found at www.gordbamford.com

Halloween is a time of great excitement for children but the thrills can make them forget some of the safety rules they have learned. It is important to keep your child’s safety in mind when planning costumes, decorations, treats and activities on the special day itself. Lit jack-o-lanterns, flimsy or complicated costumes, street traffic and unsafe treats are just some of the risks. With some simple precautions, you can make sure that Halloween is a safe and happy experience for the whole family.

SAFETY TIPS

Costumes

• Cold and wet weather can be harmful to children. Choose costumes that can be worn over warm clothing, but are not baggy enough to trip over.

• Flammable materials, flowing skirts, baggy sleeves and over-sized costumes can all be hazards around candles or flames. Avoid costumes with baggy sleeves or flowing skirts and look for costumes, beards and wigs that are labelled "Flame-Resistant." Nylon or heavyweight polyester costumes are best. Remember, "Flame-Resistant" does not mean fire-proof.

• Pick brightly coloured costumes that can be clearly seen by motorists. Add reflective tape to the costume to increase visibility.

• Use make-up or face paint instead of masks. Improperly fitted masks can interfere with your child’s vision or breathing. If you do choose a mask, make sure it fits properly and allows them to see and breathe properly.

• Toy weapons such as swords, knives and other accessories can cause injuries so make sure they are always made of flexible material.

• Coloured contact lenses that change eye colour should be avoided because they can cause injury to a child’s eyes.

Decorations

• To avoid injuries, let children draw a face or design on the pumpkin and then have an adult carve it.

• Candles, jack-o-lanterns, lighters and matches are all fire hazards. Instead of candles, consider using a small flashlight or battery candle to light your jack-o-lantern. Always keep candles, matches and lighters in a place that children cannot reach.

• Avoid using Halloween candles with multiple wicks. They can produce a single high flame or several large flames that create intense heat and may ignite nearby materials like curtains and window sills.

• Indoor and outdoor decorative lights can be fire hazards. Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections. Make sure they are certified by a recognized organization like the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or the Underwriters’ Laboratory of Canada (ULC). Do not overload extension cords.

• Make your home safe for ghouls and goblins by removing objects around the outside of your house that could cause children to trip or fall. Turn on your outside lights so that children know they can visit.

• Keep pets inside and away from trick or treaters and lit candles, especially if they are easily frightened or overly excitable.

Trick or treating

• Go trick or treating with your children each year until they are old enough to go with a friend. Children who are alone are vulnerable to injury and bullying by older children or may encounter a predator. When they are old enough, make sure they go with a friend or in a group, and know the routes they will be taking. You can also follow along at a distance to keep an eye on them.

• Tell your children to walk, not run from house to house and to stay on the sidewalk or at the side of the road facing traffic. They should only cross the road at the corner and look both ways before crossing. If you are driving on Halloween, be aware of children, drive slowly and enter and exit driveways and alleyways with caution.

• Give each child a flashlight to carry, to make them more visible to motorists and others.

• Tell your children to stay in well-lit areas and only visit homes that have their outside lights turned on. Make sure they know never to go inside homes or cars.

• Take a backpack along, to empty goodies into if the loot bag becomes too heavy.

• Tell your children not to eat any goodies until you have looked them over. Throw out any treats that are not commercially wrapped, have loose or torn wrappers or have holes in the wrappers. If you suspect tampering with any of the treats, notify the police. Serve dinner before your children go out, so that they will be less tempted to eat goodies along the way.

• Be cautious about giving children any treats that could be potential choking hazards. Some treats such as chewy candies, peanuts and hard candies could be a choking hazard.

• Check toys or novelty items for small parts. If they do have small parts, do not let children under three years of age play with them.

• You might want to consider an alternative to sugar-based treats, like sugarless gum. Stickers or multi-coloured pencils can be a nice replacement for traditional treats. Ask your children for suggestions.

• For diabetic children, monitor the treats so that they fit into their specialized meal plan. Leftover treats can be traded with other children or given away. Treats may also cause severe side effects (adverse reactions) in children who have allergies or sensitivities.

THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA’S ROLE

Health Canada works closely with industry, partners and stakeholders to protect consumers from product-related hazards and to promote the safe use of products through the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act. .

Health Canada also establishes regulations and standards relating to the safety and nutritional quality of foods sold in Canada. Through inspection and enforcement activities, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency verifies that food sold in Canada meets Health Canada’s requirements.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To report concerns about consumer products visit the Consumer Product Safety regional product safety offices website at: www.hc-sc.gc.ca/contact/cps-spc/hecs-dgsesc/pso-bsp-eng.php or call 1-866-662-0666. Calls will be routed to the nearest regional Product Safety Office.

Leduc RCMP are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing Leduc man who has not been seen or heard from by family and friends since September 9th, 2011. Dale Edward GINN who is 48 yrs of age, was last seen while staying at the Waldorf Hotel in Leduc. All of GINN’S personal belongings including his bicycle which he used as his primary source of transportation were left at the Waldorf.

The City of Leduc and Black Gold Regional Schools has introduced the LRC Wristband Recycling Program to encourage students to recycle wristbands obtained during each visit to the Leduc Recreation Centre (LRC). Students bring in their used wristbands to school, and sign them to enter the monthly prize draw for facility passes.

“We want to encourage youth to participate in LRC programs, services and drop-in opportunities,” says Roger Smolnicky, LRC director. “Keeping kids active is our goal. With more participation at our facility, we’re then able to offer a greater variety of services to youth.”

Leduc’s LRC is the first recreation facility in Alberta to partner with a school division on a recycling program encouraging youth to be active. The program was initiated at Caledonia Park School in Leduc last year and is now being offered to all students in Black Gold Regional Schools.

The LRC Wristband Recycling Program will run until the end of the school year.

For more information, call (780) 980-7120 or BGRS Healthy Schools Initiative contact Lynn Bonnah at (780) 929-8663.

NISKU, AB - At the Leduc County organizational meeting held earlier today, division four councillor John Whaley was appointed as Leduc County’s mayor for the year. Each year Leduc County Council appoints a mayor from within council for the term of one year. This term as mayor will be from October 2011 to October 2012.

This is Mayor Whaley’s fifth term as mayor and eleventh consecutive year on Leduc County council.

Mayor Whaley thanked Council for their support and encouraged them to come to him with any concerns they may have. He noted that he remains committed to representing Council and providing accountability to Leduc County ratepayers.

The deputy mayor of Leduc County is determined on a six-month rotational basis. Division six councillor Ruth Harrison will remain deputy mayor until October 31, when division five councillor Betty Glassman will assume the role until April 30, 2012.

The deputy mayor rotation will then continue as follows:

• Division three councillor John Schonewille - May 1, 2012 to October 31, 2012

• Division two councillor Clayton Stumph - November 1, 2012 to April 30, 2013

• Division one councillor Jocelyn Mackay - May 1, 2013 to October 2013, when municipal elections will take place.

More than 4,000 trees were recorded in the City of Leduc’s 2011 Urban Forest Inventory Program. This year’s program, which reviewed 40 per cent of the city’s park space, is a continuation of last year’s inventory of more than 5,000 trees in the city’s boulevard tree program.

“Our Urban Forest Inventory Program will continue in 2012 to ensure our green infrastructure is properly maintained,” says Jason Simituk, acting director of community development and service planning with the City of Leduc. “This program is very important in order to protect and maintain the health of Leduc’s urban forest.”

• Benefits to urban forestry include:
• Improved air quality
• Improved aesthetics
• Storm-water attenuation
• Energy conservation by acting as a canopy cover
• Increased property value for homeowners
• Provision of wildlife habitat

Leduc’s Urban Forestry Program responds to citizen feedback incorporated in the city’s updating Municipal Development Plan. Clean air was identified as the most important environmental priority by residents.

For more information, call (780) 980-7177.

The City of Leduc and Leduc County received unanimous approval on Oct. 4, 2011 from the Capital Region Board as part of the approval process on a proposed new Inter-municipal Development Plan (IDP). A joint special meeting, hosted by both municipalities, is set to hear from residents before respective councils consider approving this plan.

WHAT: Public Hearing – Leduc and Leduc County Inter-municipal Development Plan

WHEN: Nov. 15, 2011 (7 p.m.)

WHERE: Best Western Denham Inn and Suites (5207 – 50 Street, Leduc)

The proposed IDP outlines land-use, development, regional and municipal servicing, transportation, open space and recreation, economic development and the protection of natural areas. Leduc and Leduc County adopted the Joint Sustainability Growth Study (JSGS) in 2008 which the IDP is based upon. The IDP planning process considered anticipated growth and development, no matter where future municipal boundaries might be drawn. The JSGS and IDP are the result of a highly co-operative, four-year planning process including consultation with citizens, landowners and major agencies, such as the Capital Region Board, Alberta Transportation, Edmonton International Airport, and surrounding towns and cities.

“Our two municipalities have become a positive example of how co-operation between neighbouring urban and rural communities can create a common vision for the future,” says Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke. “Our inter-municipal region anticipates significant population and industrial growth over the next 30 years and the IDP will set the stage for sound planning and decision-making for many years to come.”

“This proposed plan is beneficial, not only for the county and the city, but also for the entire Capital Region because it will ensure that future growth and development will maximize existing and future infrastructure for the benefit of future generations,” says Leduc County Mayor John Whaley. “It demonstrates a high degree of inter-municipal collaboration and commitment to ensure the Leduc region will grow responsibly, efficiently and sustainably.”

For more information, call the City of Leduc at (780) 980-7177 or Leduc County at (780) 955-3555.

Leduc, Alberta: Each year students registered in grades 3, 6, and 9 write provincial achievement tests (PATs). In grade 3 students write tests in language arts and math. In grades 6 and 9 students write tests in language arts, math, science and social studies. Students registered in core grade 12 courses are required to write provincial diploma exams which are weighted at fifty percent of their final course mark.

Results for the 2010/11 school year were recently made available. Results for grades 3 and 6 were extremely positive. On all 6 exams written the percentage of students from STAR Catholic who achieved the acceptable standard exceeded the provincial average of students who did the same. Respectively, 92% of grade 3 students and 85% of grade 6 students in STAR division passed their exams. This exceeds the provincial average for both grades.

Grade 9 test results, however, were down slightly for the division, with the number of students meeting the acceptable standard coming in at 78.2%, whereas 80.4% of grade 9 students across the province met the standard.

At the grade 12 level students surpassed the provincial average on 6 of 10 grade 12 diploma exams, and did so by a typical margin of 2.1%. Overall, 82.9% of STAR students met the acceptable standard on the diploma exams, which was 0.3% higher than the provincial average of 82.6% of students who met the same standard.

Analyzing these results, Assistant Superintendent Troy Davies comments, "Our terrific results in elementary language arts are proof that our AISI three year focus on literacy and teaching reading strategies is paying dividends. The number of students we have meeting the acceptable standard in grade 3 and grade 6 reading scores continues its trend upwards, is higher than it has ever been in the previous 5 years, and exceeds the provincial average by a noticeable margin." Davies goes on to add, "At the grade 12 level there are also some really special items of note that have occurred in Chemistry 30, Physics 30, English 30-1 & -2, Pure Math 30, and Science 30, where our acceptable rates this past year are higher than they’ve been for any of the previous 5 years. What’s more is that on three of these exams 100% of our students who wrote the exam met the acceptable standard."

St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Schools (STAR) is a Christ-centered Catholic community committed to providing the highest quality education to over 2,900 students. STAR serves the Catholic communities of Beaumont, Drayton Valley, Lacombe, Leduc, Ponoka, and Wetaskiwin.

For more information, visit www.faithinyourfuture.ca

David MacKenzie, a native Albertan, moved with his family to Leduc in 1992. He and his wife, Bonni, have three adult children - Jennifer, John and Chris. Dave was the Manager of CIBC from 1992 to 2007.  He has since retired from the Bank and is currently a mortgage specialist with Dominion Lending.

Dave has always been a very active member in our Community. He was the Chairman of the Leduc and District Food Bank from 1995 to 2007. He was nominated for the Leduc and District Citizen of the Year award twice – in 2003 and again in 2005

Tune in Saturdays at 10:00am to hear Dave MacKenzie and his special guests brought in each week.

A link to Dave's web site click here

To listen to a previous show choose a link below

May 2012

May 5, 2012 (Click Here)

Marc Thibodeau, Leduc Insurance Agency

May 12, 2012 (Click Here)

Gail Scott, Executive Director with Leduc-Nisku EDA

May 19, 2012 (Click Here)

Victor E. Howard, Pahl Howard Rowland LLP Law Firm

April 2012

April 21, 2012 (Click Here)

MLA, George Rogers

April 28, 2012  (Click Here)

George Clancy, Deputy Fire Chief - Discussion - Firefit Championships

March 2012

March 3, 2012  (Click Here)
Gerry Baird
Vantage Floor Coverings Inc.

March 10, 2012  Recorded LIVE -(Click Here1) (Click Here2) (Click Here3)
Mayor Greg Krischke