This is for all the Clark W. Griswold’s in the world. Those who have the determination to brighten everyone’s Christmas as much as their homes.    During a drive through Drumheller a friend suddenly exclaimed, “look at that house!”
    I glanced over and saw a beacon of light in the darkness, a house and lawn so completely covered in Christmas lights and decorations I would hazard a guess that planes overhead could make it out.    
    We stopped and could only marvel in awe of the sight before us. Afterwards, we drove around and found other houses that strive to  create illuminated works of art out of their homes each Christmas.
    For Paul Ainscough, it is his grandchildren that inspire him to spend a whole day outside in the cold assembling the illuminating display of Christmas cheer in his front yard.
    “We’ve got seven grandchildren. They’re kind of used to it by now and they look forward to us doing something every year,” said Ainscough.
    The Ainscough lawn is a sight to behold. It is filled, with nary a bare inch to be found, with wire animals, snowmen, and Santa all lit up in different hues. In the back yard, stand two huge inflatable Christmas decorations.
    “Sometimes people walking by stop and you can see them looking at what we put out,” said Ainscough.
    For others, it just isn’t Christmas without lights.
    “We decorate every year. Christmas is a special time, always has been for our family. We just like decorating,” said Nick Sereda.
    Putting together such a brilliant display takes a serious investment of time.
    “It usually takes a full day to put everything together. We try to do it in November when it’s nicer,” said Ainscough.
    Over the years though, some have observed things are a but dimmer than in the past.
    “I remember there was a lot more going on. I don’t know if it is the extra cost of electricity, but growing up, there seemed to be a lot more,” said Sereda.
    Ainscough said he doesn’t see much of a spike in his power use, certainly not to the extent where the meter is spinning out of control.
    “We don’t see much of an increase. We use LED’s, they really work to keep the power down,” said Ainscough.
    Others worry about vandalism.
    “Last year was hard, because a lot of people in the area got hit by vandalism. We had two blow ups [decortions] and a few other things damaged,” said Ainscough.
    However, Ainscough and Sereda won’t let those tribulations won’t snow on their Christmas spirit.
    “It’s fun to see. I’ll be going out soon to see all the decorations. It’s nice to drive around and take a look at what people do,” said Ainscough. “As long as we can do it, we can do it.”

    Each Christmas, donations from all over the Drumheller area pour into the Salvation Army. Food, clothing, and toys are collected and given to those in our community who need it most.
    For those on the receiving end, those gifts make a world of difference in their lives.
    “I went there last winter and got clothes for the kids, like winter jackets. They really helped me out when I was in need of it,” said a single father of three who wished to remain anonymous. “My parents suggested going to the Salvation Army. I really had to think about it. At first it was pride, because I had never been in that situation. They helped me out and did wonders.”
    For some, financial crises, such as losing a job, while others have little left over after paying their basic bills. The cost of presents also is a challenge for many.
    “When you have three kids, it can be $150 right off the top and it adds up. It’s so good having the presents there for my kids,” said the father of three.
    Earlier in December, the Salvation Army held a registration night for those needing a Christmas hamper. This year, they expect around 100 households in Drumheller will need them.
    “We have around 300 people helped each year, which is about 100 households. This year we’re preparing about 100 hampers,” said Lt. Rachel Sheils of the Drumhelle Salvation Army.
    To determine who is in need the most, the Salvation Army needs to learn about the financial situation of each person.
    “They need to bring in proof of ID, their residence, and their income...once we see that financial snapshot, we can assess if they can meet their other needs, like groceries. Sadly,  some people who come to us have no money left over after their basic bills are paid. This helps give them a little break. It happens all the time,” said Sheils.
    Each household gives a wish list of the toys and food they hope to get. Yesterday, students from Morrin and Delia Schools took those lists and helped assemble the hampers, which will then be handed out tomorrow.
    For those who get help, it is something they never forget and are grateful for.
    “Hopefully next year things will be looking up for me and I won’t need it forever, but it was sure nice and appreciated when I needed it,” said the father of three. “I must have given about nine bags of clothes to the Salvation Army. It wouldn’t be as successful as it is without donations and it shows that people care."