Fred Lindsay

Up until today, Fred Lindsay had been serving as Solicitor General in Ed Stelmach’s cabinet.  Fred was considered to be a member of the Magnificent Seven: those members who originally supported Stelmach’s leadership bid.

However, today Stelmach introduced a cabinet shuffle that saw Lindsay headed for the back benches.  Frank Oberle, of Peace River, will be taking over Lindsay’s position as Solicitor General and Minister of Public Security.

Doug Horner, MLA for Spruce Grove-Sturgeon-St. Albert, stays where he is as Deputy Premier, Minister of Advanced Education and Technology, and Minister Liaison to the Canadian Armed Forces.

Due to a perceived mismanagement of the swine flu vaccination program, former Minister of Health Ron Liepart was moved from his post (he is now the Minister of Energy).  He is replaced by Gene Zwozdesky of Edmonton-Mill Creek.

Spruce Grove’s arts and culture scene will be alive with activities as the city celebrates the second annual Alberta Arts Days, September 18 – 20.

“Our city has an outstanding reputation as a supporter of arts and culture,” says Mayor Stuart Houston. “Spruce Grove has contributed significantly to Alberta’s profile in these areas, and we are proud to carry on that tradition this year.”

Events for all ages are planned for this year’s celebrations which will take place at two venues in Spruce Grove – the Melcor Cultural Centre and Horizon Stage Performing Arts Centre.

At the Melcor Cultural Centre, The Spruce Grove Public Library will present Media and the Technological Arts on Friday, September 18. The event will include a reading of the book Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, which is about to be released in theatres. It will also feature a film-making demonstration and teen-made movie presentations.

Also at the library, Writing and the Literary Arts will include writing workshops and activities and musical entertainment by Edmonton Celtic ensemble Celtara, on Saturday, September 19.

Alberta Arts Days

On Sunday, September 20, the library will host a teen photographic and sketch art display.

The Spruce Grove Art Gallery will hold its Open Art Competition starting Wednesday, September 9 and wrapping up with visual arts demonstrations on Saturday, September 19.

Also on September 19, residents are invited to Horizon Stage where they can learn about the front of house operations at the Horizon Stagelighters orientation session. New and returning volunteers are welcome to participate.

For more information about Alberta Arts Days activities in Spruce Grove, visit the City’s website at www.sprucegrove.org/albertaartsdays.

After 15 years of business, the Sign Cellar is closing down.  In 1994, a group of entrepreneurs started a small vinyl and signage shop in Stony Plain’s industrial area.  They grew quickl; expanding their product line to include promotional items, garments, and embroidery services.  They also opened branches in Barhead, Drayton Valley, Calgary, and Fort McMurray.

The company, which employed approximately 15 people locally, was unable to continue operations due to the current recession.

The Sign Cellar was known for its active community involvement, especially from owners Graeme Dawes, and Orville Eidick.  The company was an active supporter of Minor Hockey, the Saints, and the Great White north Triathlon.

Retraction notice: view here.