Mayor Cindy Jefferies shared her story with members.  Cindy came to Red Deer in 1978 and attended LTHS where she met her future husband, Dan.  While still in high school they created a profitable small painting company where the best purchase was a paint sprayer.  Dan became an accountant and Cindy pursued a BA in communications, a degree that has stood her in good stead.  

Cindy has always placed a high priority on advocacy, building relationships, and examining ways in which to meet the future demands of organizations and communities.  She continues to use her knowledge of community development to guide decisions, building strength through community.    

Dr. Debbie Thompson, President of Olds College, provided updates about Olds College  continuing to be a leader in agriculture across the province and country.   The college is one of the very few post secondary institutions that is focused solely on agriculture and is creating the next generation of agriculture leaders by developing talent, advancing knowledge and championing stewardship and sustainability. It is focused on development technological innovation and development of workplace skills.  Founded in 1913, Olds Colleges continues to adapt to meet the changing needs of the agricultural industry.   The college strives to educate, advance research, train, and be an advocate for agricultural advances.