Love Rosebud? Want to visit more often? In celebration of Rosebud Theatre’s 30th anniversary, Rosebud Centre of the Arts has announced an eclectic and dynamic new entertainment series to complement of their 2013 season.
    The Rosebud Presents series will feature music concerts, one-man shows, children’s programming and more.
     “For thirty years, people have been coming from all over the province to be swept up in the experience of Rosebud,” says Morris Ertman, Artistic Director of Rosebud Theatre. “Our shows have become a part of people’s pilgrimages into rural Alberta. So, in our 30th anniversary year, we’re adding a series of events that welcomes new artists to Rosebud and expands our programming. If you haven’t been out to Rosebud lately–or ever–we invite you to discover the magic of the valley, the hospitality of the people, and the sheer love of sharing music and story with our beloved patrons.”
     The current line-up for Rosebud Presents includes Brian Doerksen in Concert, comedy improv with Panic Squad, and the classic Canadian play Letter from Wingfield Farm.
     The series kicked off Thursday, February 28 with Sandbox Theatre’s fun and educational production of The Amazing Adventure of Clara and Jacques. It tells the tale of two children who band together in search of a home, and traverse the vast lands of a country that would become Canada; along the way encountering a fur trader, braving the rapids in a canoe, and riding horseback with the North West Mounted Police.
    Next up are Canadian music icons Valdy and Gary Fjellgaard who will launch their latest tour with a special performance in Rosebud on April 9. They will be joined by roots duo The Great Plains (formerly Saskia & Darrel) and will provide an evening of folk and country music to entertain and delight.
     “We’ll have even more concerts, shows and forums to announce over the next few months,” adds Executive Director Adam Furfaro. “We hope to surprise our patrons with new and exciting opportunities to be entertained and engaged.”  Furfaro notes that 2013 Season Subscribers will be acknowledged for their loyalty with significant savings on their Rosebud Presents ticket purchases. “It’s not too late to become a subscriber. Give us a call and check out the savings. It’s really quite remarkable.”

    The Kneehill FCSS is getting ready to let residents know how they can get involved in their communities.
    Starting next week, Kneehill FCSS will be hosting several Discovery Nights.
    “We provide people an opportunity to learn about resources and organizations in their community,” said Shelly Jackson, with the Kneehill FCSS. “We always encourage groups by telling them it’s a chance to let people know about what they do and it’s a chance to let people know they can join. It’s a way to enhance the community.”
    The first meeting is scheduled for March 5 at the Carbon Community Hall, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The second will be in Linden on March 7 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The final Discovery Night will be in Acme on March 12 in the Acme Community Centre from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
    At each session, residents can learn what volunteer opportunities are available (for example Fire Departments or Ag Societies), what services (such as Alberta Health Services, Addictions Counselling, and Parent Link)  are out there, and even register for sports teams.
    “It’s part of what FCSS wants to do. We want to make sure people have some awareness about what programs and services are out there, and how they can reach them,” said Jackson.
    The Discovery Nights started a few years ago. It was felt there was a need to showcase what was available for newcomers and long-time residents alike.
    “A lot of times people have said to us they don’t need to come, because it’s for newcomers. But, I think it’s just as important for anyone, because as we go through life we sometimes look for different opportunities. You might have kids and as they grow up, you might want to do something different or volunteer,” said Jackson. “One reason this is an annual event is if you don’t need a service at the time, it doesn’t necessarily stick in your brain. This way people are exposed to what’s out there regularly.”
     Attendance is free for the public and community groups can register their booth for free with the Kneehill FCSS at 403-443-3800.