airdrielife spring 2005

s p r i n g / s u m m e r 2 0 0 5 • v o l u m e 1 • n u m b e r 2 • w w w. a i r d r i e . c a

AirdrieLIFE THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO LIFE IN THE CITY OF AIRDRIE

Life in Airdrie is blooming!

Updated Community Profiles Canada $3.00

Inside this issue: show home highlights, city living information, detailed city map and much more

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE Volume 1 • Number 2 PUBLISHER EDITOR

MARKETING 4U Sherry Shaw-Froggatt

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Kathy Anderson

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Kim Williams

For editorial inquiries email: airdrielife@shaw.ca

Welcome to Airdrie

I

t is no surprise to the residents of Airdrie that one can live life to the fullest in the City of Airdrie. Children and youth are provided the best start in life, while their parents have access to a w ealth of opportunities and their grandparents can saf ely relax and enjoy t he reward of building one of the most dynamic communities in Canada. This spring we will see unprecedented development in bot h our r esidential, commercial and industrial areas. The people of Airdrie should be proud of their community, as it is their hard work and dedication that has built the foundation for this thriving city to grow.

The City of Airdrie has a pr osperous economy. The growth of residential, commercial and industrial development has su cceeded in pr oviding a high quality of life for residents, offering diverse options for housing, shopping, education, recreation and employment. Located along Alberta's most important economic corridor, the city draws development by providing easy access to regional, provincial and international markets. This means a greater variety and availability of employment opportunities within the city an d opportunities for new businesses to emerge.

The City of Airdrie strives to incorporate the values of the community into local government. Open dialogue, innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit, collaboration, learning, vision and well-being fuels the spirit of City Hall to do our very best to make Airdrie a place where residents will live the very best AirdrieLIFE.

Linda Bruce Mayor City of Airdrie On the cover: Maria Alexander, three and a half, photographed at the Balzac Garden Centre.

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

For advertising inquiries email: knanders@shaw.ca 403-266-7154 City Contacts: Kent Rupert Tara Richards 403-948-8800

Printing: Calgary Colorpress AirdrieLIFE is published twice per year by MARKETING 4U in conjunction with the City of Airdrie Economic Development Department AirdrieLIFE is delivered to over 30,000 homes in Airdrie and surrounding communities.

Additional copies are available at Airdrie City Hall 400 Main Street Airdrie, Alberta The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement and all representations of warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in all or in part, without the written permission of the publisher. Canadian publications mail sales product agreement No. 40648615.

volume 2 • spring 2005 •

AirdrieLIFE

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cityLIVING

Table of Contents Satisfied!

The latest Citizen Satisfaction Survey results are in. Plus our contest winners!

6

9

For the wee ones Airdrie has an excellent support network for moms and tots

10

Get educated.

Airdrie schools get an A +

13

An EventFULL Summer Keep this handy reference guide to track all of Airdrie’s summer events

15

Ready set grow! The Landscape Awards

18

Make Yourself at Home Our updated community profiles

19

In Bloom Information for gardeners

25

Find your way around A easy to use city map

26

Recycling 101 Airdrie’s Environmental Services update

28

Dive In A summer schedule for the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre

30

An Airdrie Heritage Moment Airdrie’s first doctor

32

To serve and protect Airdrie Emergency Services, Municipal Enforcement and RCMP

33

Over Active Over 50 Meet an Airdrie couple who prove retirement isn’t for the meek!

35

Home Handyman Tour the home of the Richters and see DIY renovations with style

36

Bussing business A City transit update

38

Condo living Tips about condo choices and good advice from a condo owner

39

Airdrie works!

A look at how Airdrie is growing economically speaking

40

Show homes!

Snap shots from the city’s newest show homes

42

Who is the Volunteer of the Year?

Meet the winner

44

Get involved Find a club or organization to join this summer

45

Body, mind and soul A complete listing of health and social services and local churches

49

The Last Word Our editor digs into summer

50

AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

*

D G ! pm N A IN D 5 R N N to G E E on P K o O EE 4 N 2 W & 23 ril Ap

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F I V E

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U N I Q U E

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H O M E S

$

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B U I L D E R S

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403-253-5678 Visit our show home at #801 – 2005 Luxstone Blvd., Airdrie, Alberta Open Monday to Wednesday 4 – 8pm • Saturday & Sunday 1 – 5pm (Closed Thursday & Friday) www.vestaproperties.com

ANOTHER MASTER PLANNED COMMUNITY BY

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cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is... guaranteed satisfaction!

Our “AirdrieLIFE is…” writing contest winners captured the en thusiasm of our community.

Congrats to Che lsea Stone and Addison Williamson for their creative efforts!

Excerpts from Chelsea’s “Chat on Airdrie” What I like about Airdrie is that there is always something to do. Some examples of things to do are you can go swimming at the pool, go bowling at Shamrock Lanes or go to any of the many parks around Airdrie. During the year you can join many sports teams. My favorites are soccer and basketball.

The results are in for 2005 and Airdrie residents love their city. The survey shows that 93 per cent of residents surveyed, rate the quality of life as good or very good. Even better news if you have children and are thinking about moving here, 97 per cent of respondents with children gave Airdrie a big thumbs up!

One of the other things I like is the schools they have nice teachers and lots of room. Some of my favorite events that happen throughout the year are the Canada Day Parade, the Airdrie Rodeo and the Festival of Lights.

Usually if you go the grocery store you can always see someone that you know.

The most important thing I like about Airdrie is that it’s home and I always feel safe.

Chelsea Stone Age 10

More good news; 95 per cent of Airdronians surveyed consider Airdrie a safe place to live.

The Citizen Satisfaction Survey conducted earlier this spring asked respondents to rate city services and also as ked what issues they w ere most concerned with. Not surprisingly congestion on the provincially-owned interchanges continues to be the top issue of concern to residents.

Construction on the north interchange is underway now and scheduled for completion by year-end. Construction on the sou th interchange improvements are scheduled to commence this year.

As well, the City will be twinning Highway 567 from Main Street to 8th Street this year and will undertake its annual roads rehabilitation program in the spring.

Airdrie is the Best Airdrie is the best Always full of fest There are bike trails And skateboard rails There are good schools And the teachers are cool; There are tons of parks And trees of poplar bark You can golf and play in any way That’s why Airdrie is the BEST Addison Williamson age 10

Over the next couple of years, look for twinning of 8th Street from First Avenue to Big Hill Springs Road, and twinning of Big Hill Springs Road from Main Street to 8th Street.

We received some nice photo images of the Airdrie area. Congrats to Jean McLaughlin for her capture of an early winter sunrise just west of the city.

To read the full details of the Satisfaction Survey go to www.airdrie.ca.

Thanks to everyone who entered.

volume 2 • spring 2005 •

AirdrieLIFE

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cityLIVING One of Renee’s favorite summer activities through Parks and Recreation was Picnic in the Park. Each week mom and tots would meet at a designated park, pack a l unch and enjoy an af ternoon of organized fun fr om puppet shows to kite flying.

Through all the i nvolvement and activities Dayton thrived and Renee enjoyed the fringe benefit of making new friends. In fact her original post natal group met faithfully for over two years and still gets to gether socially now and then.

AirdrieLIFE is... for the kids!

A

t the ripe old age of five and a half, Dayton Doucette is a true Airdronian. She’s probably been to more activities, events and outings in her hometown than people twice her age!

All that credit in creating a well rounded, intelligent, happy child has to go to m om Renee Doucette who has tak en advantage of the resources and organizations in Airdrie to give Dayton a real positive growing experience.

When Dayton turned two, they joined the Airdrie Family Services Tuesday morning drop in at the Bethany Care Centre where the youngest Airdrie residents interacted with Airdrie’s elder residents. Once a month Family Services would provide child care and seminars on a wide range of parenting issues.

“These session were really valuable,” Renee recalls.

“I always knew Airdrie was a

“I always knew Airdrie was a great family oriented community,” Renee reflects,“but it wasn’t until I had D ayton that I began to appreciate how much there is available around the city.”

With husband Brian working at Propak during the day, Renee and Dayton began with post-natal classes.It was a great way for babies to interact and more importantly moms to share their own experiences and “just get ou t of the house”. Renee and Dayton also jo ined other moms and tots every Tuesday for Stay and Play.

great family oriented community,” Renee reflects, “but it wasn’t until I had Dayton that I began to appreciate how much there is available around the city.”

Renee credits her go od friend Kathleen for showing her the ropes. Kathleen was very well connected with Airdrie Family Services and Renee admits she had a misconception of what Airdrie Family Services was for. “I thought it was just for those i n need, but I p leasantly discovered it was also f or moms like me just looking for positive experiences for both Dayton and myself.”

When Dayton was four and half months, Renee and Dayton began programs through the City of Airdrie. Moms and Tots Swim became Gym and Swim, then as Dayton grew more mobile, she took part in dance, tumbling and lots of play time through the C ity’s programming.

10 AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

When Dayton turned four a whole door opened for activity choices. Brian and Renee both believe they should expose Dayton to as many activities as possible and then allow her to express an interest in which ones to pursue down the r oad. Over the p ast two years Dayton has taken lessons from the Airdrie Dance Academy, the Airdrie Gymnastics Club and the Airdrie Figure Skating Club, plus continued to take swimming lessons. This spring Dayton is especially excited because she begins her first team sport – soccer.

Dad has taken her to the driving range to share his passion for golf. Brian also hopes she wants to try baseball someday too. And who knows, mom’s love of horses could mean riding lessons down the road.

“My family in Calgary is always amazed by the quantity and quality of programs offered out here,” Renee says.

Danni was born last May and thi s past fall Dayton started kindergarten. Renee has taken the year to enjoy time with her girls, but when Dayton goes off to first grade for the full da y Renee is lining up gym and swim and other activities for Danni so she can become another active member of Airdrie’s community. New moms now look to Renee for advice on what to do, where to go and she is more than happy to share what she has learned living in Airdrie.

“We’re never at a loss f or something to do ,” Renee says as she packs up the girls and heads out the door to school.

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luxstonelanding.com volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE... is educating!

A

irdrie has an ex cellent educational system currently catering to more than 3,500 students. Elementary, middle school, high school, private school, Catholic school and French Immersion classes are available.

The public schools are part of the Rocky View School Division #44, soon to be relocated to Airdrie (their new offices are under construction on Big Hill Springs Road). To learn more about the school boundaries that determine which school your child would attend please visit www.rockyview.ab.ca.

The separate school is p art of the Calgary Catholic Separate School Division #1, headquartered in Calgary, www.cssd.ab.ca.

A new Francophone school, Ecole Francophone Airdrie is s lated to open this September. Approximately 40 s tudents are registered.

For more information on this new school call 948-6995 o r email efairdrie@atrium.ca.

Airdrie Public schools School

A.E. Bowers Ecole Airdrie Middle Edwards Elementary R.J. Hawkey Ralph McCall Muriel Clayton Middle Rocky View Virtual School Meadowbrook Middle Bert Church High George McDougall High

Grades

(K-4) (5-8) (K-4) (K-4) (K-8) (5-8) (9-12) (5-8) (9-12) (9-12)

Post Secondary Education Bow Valley College offers courses in Airdrie on a full and part-time basis in apprenticeship math and science, basic education, high school upgrading (in-class and online), GED, pre-employment training, computer applications and continuing education. Bow Valley College is a member of ecampusAlberta, which is increasing access to high quality, online learning opportunities.

The City of Airdrie is just minute's away from world class educational facilities including Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), Mount Royal College, the University of Calgary, DeVry, and Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD). Airdrie's proximity to Cal gary allows students the opportunity to attend post-secondary institutions with minimal travel.

Early Learning Separate Our Lady Queen of Peace School St. Martin de Porres

(K-6) (7-12)

Private Airdrie Koinonia Christian School

(K-12)

Other Education Facilities in Airdrie Academy of Learning Rocky View Adult Education Sylvan Learning Center

Learning begins early in Airdrie thanks to a w ide range of programs, preschools and day care centers designed to make little ones comfortable and prepared for the first day of school.

Airdrie Day Care Centre Airdrie Family Services Stepping Stones Children’s Centre Stay and Play Christian Playschool East Lake Little People's Playschool Fuzzy Pickles Playschool Magic Mountain Day Care The Learning Village Preschool Ltd. Time to Play Preschool Ltd. Airdrie Montessori Preschool Kids Quest Preschool volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is eventFULL!

June

Summertime and the living is… Airdrie! We have more fun events and activities than gopher holes! In fact during the summer months Airdrie is a great place to be whether you are three or 83. Here’s your summer checklist plus a few glimpses into the fall and winter months so get out your calendar and start penciling these in!

June 1

Keep on top of activities and news in Airdrie. Subscribe today to the City of Airdrie e-newsletter at www.airdrie.ca.

June 4

Airdrie Bike Festival – tune up your two-wheeler.

June 8

Come wear a bib and eat lobster at the Airdrie Rotary Club Lobster boil.

June 10

Fore a good cause the Annual Easter Seals Charity Golf Tournament sponsored by Century 21 Castlewood Agencies is on at the Woodside Golf Course.

June 11

Love Airdrie! Local churches distribute acts of kindness all over the city today. Watch for free car washes, free pop, coffee, lawn mowing, garbage pickup, cookie giveaway and so on and so on. What’s NOT to love about that!!! For more info go to www.loveyourcity.com.

June 16

Ever wanted to see the inside of an ambulance without panicking? Come on down to the Airdrie Emergency Services Open House.

June 18

Rodeo season begins with the Rodeo Fashion Show at Towerlane Mall.

Wheeling good times – the BMX Canadian Championships are in Airdrie!

June 19

It’s Dad’s Day whaddya say you give him a break from mowing and let him go swing a few on one of the golf courses all within a 20 minutes drive of Airdrie.

Today is also the CCA National Race.

June 21

The first day of summer! Celebrate with a bike ride all around the city. We’ve got enough trails to keep you busy all day and then cool off at the pool!

June 25

Pancakes go great with cowboy hats – chow down at the Rodeo pancake breakfast at Towerland Mall.

June 28

The Airdrie Pro Rodeo begins and continues for four more thrill a second days.

June 28

School’s out! Break out the popsicles!!

June 29

Ice, ice baby! Stampede Challenge Hockey Tournament begins with 106 teams - that’s like over 1,500 hockey sticks! volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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Okay, are you ready?

Because it all kicks into high gear July 1st

Photo contest entry, Paul Miller

July

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Canada Day

Airdrie loves Canada Day – we start early with the Kinsmen Breakfast at Towerlane Mall then park our full tummies on the sidewalks for the fun of the annual Canada Day Parade. We run off to the rodeo to catch some of the action, come back for the Airdrie Emergency Services barbeque and then head off to Nose Creek Park for Canada Night in the Park and the awesome fireworks display. Did we mention we love Canada Day?

July 2

The rodeo wraps up – did you know this is the 4th largest pro rodeo in Canada?

July 3

Stampede Challenge Hockey Tournament wraps up.

July 4

A summer of camps begins – check with East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre to make sure your kids are entertained, educated and in shape all summer long.

July 8

The Calgary Stampede may be on down the road, but there are plenty of neighbourhood street parties being planned. Start one in your neighbourhood!

July 11

Rock ‘til You Drop Summer Camp for musical theatre kids begins at Bert Church Theatre. To register call 403-946-4590.

July 17

All aboard! The Iron Horse Park is a recreation in miniature of the railway pioneer days in the Canadian West. The Park is open every Sunday until October 29th. Come ride the miniature train for only a twoonie.

July 18

Future Broadway stars head to Musical Theatre camp at Bert Church Theatre 403-946-4590.

July 20

Only 40 more days until the first day of school! Get out to the Skateboard Park dude!

AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

Sept

August

cityLIVING August 1

Holiday! Relax on your deck with your new cedar furniture from the Nose Creek Valley Museum – what?

You haven’t gotten any yet? It’s all handmade cedar furniture made by retired and some not so retired farmers as a fundraiser for the Nose Creek Valley Museum.

August 10

If the weather isn’t co-operating this week – take the kids to the Airdrie Public Library . The library offers a summer reading program for school age children.

August 14

Hot enough for you? Pack a picnic and take the little ones to the Kinsmen Splash Park.

August 15

It may be hot outside but the ice is frozen at the Twin Arenas for the Skills Hockey Camp. For more info call 403-851-1321.

August 19

Rappin’ with reptiles at Towerlane Mall.

August 20

Cops and Cowboys??? Yep – it’s the annual Police Rodeo.

August 30

Kids head back to school at Airdrie Public Schools.

Moms cry, rejoice, collapse on the sofa.

September 1

Visit www.airdrie.ca/arts for The Bert Church Theatre’s 2005 – 2006 performing arts season.

September 3

Airdrie BMX Alberta Cup Grand Final.

September 4

Airdrie BMX Alberta Championships.

September 10

Show and Shine at Nose Creek Park.

September 17

Great gourds almighty! It’s the Vegetable Contest at Towerlane Mall.

September 18

Terry Fox Run - it’s been 25 years since Terry dipped his foot in the Atlantic. Take up the challenge and honour his memory.

September 21

First day of autumn. Have you signed the family up for fall activities? Studies show kids who are involved in sports make healthier lifestyle choices as adults – see pages 45 - 48 for contacts and get active!

Looking ahead…

October: Fire Prevention Week, Small Business Week November: Moonlite Madness, Airdrie Festival of Lights, Santa Claus Parade December: New Year’s at Nose Creek Park Got an event to list in the fall issue of AirdrieLIFE? Email us at airdrielife@shaw.ca no later than September 1st 2005, and we’ll post it!!! volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is blooming... are you?

Have you got the greenest thumb in the city?

Then enter the AIRDRIE LANDSCAPE AWARDS, an annual competition put on by the Airdrie Horticultural Society with support from the City of Airdrie.

It's open to all Airdrie residents. There are 10 categories:

Two of the winning gardens from 2004.

• • • • • • • • • •

Complete Yard Newly Established Yard Public Institutional or Commercial Grounds Water Garden Vegetable Garden Rock Garden Curb Appeal Container Garden Perennial Garden Youth Garden

It costs $5 p er category to en ter and a p erson can en ter in a maximum of three categories. The entry forms are available during June and July at the Airdrie Public Library.

This year the entry deadline is Friday, July 15, 2005. The judging date is planned for the weekend of July 23rd and 24th.

The winning gardeners are awarded certificates and cash prizes. Tours of a selection of the winning gardens will be held Wednesday, August 3rd from 7pm to 9pm.

Airdrie Horticultural Society If you are an avid gardener, want to meet others who share your passion and are willing to contribute towards the beautification of our city, the AHS would love to have you join us. The Society meets monthly on the third Wednesday at the Agriculture Building 7:00-8:30 pm (except July & August). Hear speakers share their expertise on water gardens or annuals. Try your hand at constructing a bent willow birdfeeder. Enjoy discounts at local greenhouses. For more information, contact: Alison at 403-948-9950 or bangp@telus.net.

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

communityPROFILES Talk about booming! If you are thinking about making Airdrie your next home or simply moving from one subdivision in Airdrie to another you have a ton of choices. From well-established older neighbourhoods with those enviable tall trees to new up and coming developments, it might be a tough decision, but at least your decision to chose Airdrie is a no-brainer! With a little help from Airdrie real estate agent Alan Tennant, we’ve updated our community profiles to give you a hint of what you can expect as well as some statistics, including the most up-to-date housing prices for each area. See the City of Airdrie map on page 26 to find your way to each area. Happy home hunting!

1,250

Housing Starts

1,000 750

0

804

XXXX

XXXX (projected)

2002

2003

2004

2005

748

500 250

806

455

2000

2001

Average condo and house prices are based on average MLS® sale prices between January 1, 2005 and March 31, 2005, except where indicated with an asterisk (*) . These figures are based on average MLS sale prices between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2004.

All figures were provided by Alan Tennant of RE/MAX Rocky View www.provenprofessionals.ca. volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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89 per cent of households have Internet access

communityPROFILES Airdrie Meadows is a walker’s haven. Centrally located on Airdrie’s west side it’s a s hort walk to downtown, the malls, schools, Kinsmen Splash Park, Plainsman Arena, the Library and more!

Average condo price $108,950 Average house price $157,000

Bayside is one of Airdrie’s most innovative new areas, thanks to an ex citing blend of upscale single family homes, condos and future commercial development. Plus it’s close to the new Rocky View School Division office.

Average condo price $162,300* Average house price $263,997

Big Springs is Airdrie’s most affordable neighbourhood, with a combination of starter homes in your choice of condo or townhouse style condos, single and double wide manufactured homes and single family homes.

Average condo price $87,172* Average house price $123,169

The Canals is a water lovers dream! Peaceful blue canals wind their way six kilometers and flows into a five acre lake. From starter homes and condos to some of Airdrie’s most spectacular executive homes, this is an area with lots to offer.

Average condo price $144,167 Average house price $218,843

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

Males outnumber females in all neighbourhoods except Edgewater, Luxstone, MacKenzie Pointe, Stonegate, Waterstone, Willowbrook and Woodside.

communityPROFILES Take a walk through Cooper’s Crossing and you’ll quickly realize why this is one of Airdrie’s most desired neighbourhoods. A well designed and beautifully landscaped six kilometre pathway system connects every corner of this hillside development. The homes and condos are in the higher price range with the newest phase offering some of Airdrie’s most exclusive housing options.

Average condo price $205,500 Average house price $280,959

Living in a small city like Airdrie couldn’t be more convenient and quiet! The Village (formerly Old Towne) surrounds Airdrie’s downtown and is basically the original town site. Huge lots, mature trees and a quiet, easy transition from the downtown shopping district makes this a popular area for long time residents and newcomers alike.

Average condo price $121,700* Average house price $168,917

Living in Edgewater combines the advantages of being within walking distance to sc hools and s hopping and being wrapped around some of Airdrie’s best greenspace. Many homes are situated overlooking Nose Creek Park, a year round gem but especially beautiful in December during the Airdrie Festival of Lights.

Average condo price $145,500* Average house price $182,527 volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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Average number of people per household is 2.79

communityPROFILES

Fairways, on the golf course – of course! Quiet, low traffic streets meander around the west end of Woodside Golf Course and create easy access to a wide range of homes from affordable condos right up to exclusive homes on the golf course.

Average condo price $164,044* Average house price $250,787

The Jensen family lent their name to one of Airdrie’s first sub-divisions and it still maintains a strong family feel. Thanks to being next door to the Tri-Schools site (all three levels of public schools) this has long been a sought after area to live. Homes range from rental apartments to executive homes in Jensen Heights – there’s something for everyone!

Average condo price $132,750 Average house price $217,500

Luxstone is emerging as another area in Airdrie offering something for every budget; starting with affordable condo living and starter homes right through to trade-up homes along the Canal. Plans for this area include a pond, walking trails, a nature park and soccer field – now that’s family friendly!

Average condo price $122,371 Average house price $186,000

Mackenzie Pointe is a popular condo development in an ide al central location. Next door is Iron Horse Park a wonderful miniature train and it’s a short walk to downtown.

Condo’s start from $107,900

Meadowbrook residents enjoy a quiet setting in the south east corner of Airdrie.The pathways lead to a large central park with a play structure and connects to Meadowbrook Middle School. It’s all single family homes and they range from 1980’s construction to a few years old. Many families have started in the original Meadowbrook and moved up to the newer area – they must feel at home!

Average house price $200,986

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

The Canals has the highest proportion of children under the age of 15 at 33.9 per cent.

communityPROFILES

MacKenzie Pointe has the lowest – 8.51 per cent.

Many people have moved into Ridgegate and settled in. It’s a compact area with low traffic streets winding around the north end of Nose Creek Park. It’s an easy walk to schools, the library and shopping – who would want to leave!

Average house price $187,950

If you are looking for something fun and interesting, then Sagewood is for you. One of Airdrie’s most talked about areas and for good reason! This is a very well designed place for young and young at heart to call home.

Average house price $188,150

There’s lots of excitement at the north end of Airdrie. Residents of Silver Creek enjoy condo living and a v ariety of single family home options such as c oach houses (legal suites as p art of the rear garages), starter homes and upscale homes backing onto the greenspace.

Average condo price $161,400 Average house price $201,504

Stonegate is also a t the n orth end of Airdrie and has b ecome very popular with young families thanks to the quiet, curving streets and play structures. Plus it’s home to some condos and attached homes that blend in very nicely.

Average condo price $139,625 Average house price $199,844

Overlooking the fountains in Nose Creek is something the residents of Summerhill really enjoy, especially in the winter when skating on the creek is very popular. Plus this area is home to AE Bowers Elementary School and is next door to the Airdrie Museum.

Average house price $164,292

volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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Almost 60 per cent of the adults in Airdrie work full time.

communityPROFILES

Thorburn is another of the few areas in Airdrie that is 100 per cent single family homes. Like many other parts of Airdrie the pathway network plays an important role, especially since it quickly leads to East Lake and the so ccer and ball fields, the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre, the twin arena, bowling alley and the schools. This is a po pular area not only because of the great amenities nearby but the mix o f middle and upper end homes is very appealing and as construction of new homes comes to a close, one of Airdrie’s most popular neighbourhoods is ready to mature!

Average house price: $226,985

One of Airdrie’s not so well-kept secrets is Waterstone. Tucked away south of Summerhill this very popular neighbourhood is home to some of Airdrie’s finest properties backing onto Nose Creek. It’s well designed and features lots of greenspace throughout. Drive through and watch for kids playing!

Average house price $207,000

Willowbrook as its name indicates enjoys being next to Nose Creek. From higher end homes backing onto the greenspace to condos and attached homes, Willowbrook is a great place to call home.

Average condo price $157,680 Average house price $201,600

Golf course living in Woodside is something special and it’s just as special for those residents of Woodside who don’t back onto the golf course! With many parks and easy winding streets it’s easy to see the attraction. Woodside is also home to many great options in senior and adult housing.

Average condo price $132,050 Average house price $221,409

Tell AirdrieLIFE readers why they should live in your neighbourhood!

Drop us an email at airdrielife@shaw.ca and tell us why in 100 words or less why your subdivision is the best. We’ll print your comments in the fall issue of AirdrieLIFE.

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is blooming city wide!

T

he City of Airdrie has b een competing in the C ommunity in Bloom program for the last three years. In the past, the city has competed provincially and nationally and has attained five out of five blooms with special mention for naturalization and environmental awareness.This year Airdrie is entering in the Friends category, which is non-competitive, but still requires Airdrie to continue its local initiatives to maintain our bloom rating. If you are interested in joining this dynamic committee please call the Parks Department at 403-948-8400.

Community Garden Do not let lac k of space deter y ou from gardening! The Airdrie Horticultural Society (AHS) s ponsors a C ommunity Gardening project where you can rent a 6x1.5 m (20’ x 5’) plot. Quality soil and water are available with full sun conditions in a secured area. Cost per plot is $25 f or AHS members and $30 f or non-members. The Community Garden is located at the southwest corner of Monklands Soccer Park and runs from May to October. Registration and information contact Donna Lohnes (403-948-6794 or lkdl@telusplanet.net).

volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is active!

T

he Airdrie lifestyle is active and enjoyed by everyone from all age groups and interests.

Nose Creek Park, which is a 40 acre oasis in the centre of downtown Airdrie features picnic tables and shelters, nature trails, and an amphitheatre. Nose Creek Park also has a s tocked fishing pond in the s ummer and a s kating pond in the winter.

The Woodside Golf course is a gorgeous 18-hole golf course and club house, nestled in the west end with a popular dining lounge, home to a po pular Sunday brunch.

The 400 seat performing arts theatre, Bert Church Theatre, invites patrons of the arts to exp erience everything from the Calgary Symphony to lo cal theatre groups, dance and musical extravaganzas and comedy.

Other recreational facilities include the Twin Arenas, Plainsmen Arena, Airdrie Kinsmen Splash Park, Town and Country Centre (curling rinks, meeting halls), Monklands Soccer Park, Chinook Winds Ball Park, East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre, Fletcher Park, Bicycle Motocross Track (BMX), Nose Creek Valley Museum, gym facilities, tennis courts, 36 km of paved pathways, 578 acres of parks, school grounds, 32 playgrounds, 31 soccer fields and 22 ball diamonds.

Recreation outside of Airdrie includes Big Springs Provincial Park (30 km west), numerous mountain recreational opportunities in the R ocky Mountains and Kananaskis Country and access to Cal gary's world-class recreational facilities and events.

Of course just hanging out in the backyard with neighbours over a barbeque is just as popular and inviting too.Whatever your interests,Airdrie is for you!

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

volume 2 • spring 2005 •

AirdrieLIFE

27

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is dedicated to the environment The City of Airdrie is committed to waste reduction and innovative waste and recycling management. The following pages contain information on waste management and environmental services in Airdrie; including a history of user-pay, what your garbage utility subsidizes and the many waste management programs available to the residents of Airdrie.

Spring Clean-Up Look for the Spring Cleanup coupons on your utility bill!

The EAST SIDE OF AIRDRIE received their SPRING COUPONS in their March utility Bill and the WEST SIDE OF AIRDRIE received their coupons in their April utility Bill.

Spring Clean-Up is y our opportunity to clean-up around your house an d yard and get rid of a load of garbage for FREE. This is a great opportunity to unload those larger items such as br oken furniture and ma ttresses, etc. Please use the coupons for drop off at the Transfer Site on the f ollowing dates.

FRIDAY 13th, & 20th 3:30 pm – 7:30 pm SATURDAY 14th & 21st 9:30 am – 4:30 pm SUNDAY 15th, & 22nd 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Airdrie Waste Transfer Site (10 km West on Hwy. 567 next to the Rodeo Grounds)

28

AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

Recycling

The following items are not accepted at the Airdrie Recycling Depot:

The Airdrie Recycling Depot is located at 15 East Lake Hill.

Phone number: 403-948-0246 Email: environmental.services@airdrie.ca

Styrofoam, plastics (except for plastic milk jugs), waxed cardboard, tires, wood, tree branches, sod and drywall.

Summer Hours:

As of October 1st, 2004, Alberta Environment banned certain types of electronic waste from landfills. The banned electronic waste (e-waste) will be collected at a certified collection location.The e-waste, once collected, will be transferred to a r egistered processor that can reuse, recycle or dispose of the e-waste in a proper manner.

May 1st – September 30th Wednesday – Friday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm Saturday – Sunday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Recycle Depot Holiday Hours:

Friday, July 1, 2005 CLOSED

The depot accepts the following recyclables:

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

White office paper Mixed coloured paper & magazines Newspaper Coloured & clear glass Household metal Plastic milk jugs Phone books Aerosol cans Cardboard & boxboard Used oil filters Cardboard milk cartons Used oil filters Propane tanks Electronic waste Used clothing Used Antifreeze/containers Vehicle batteries and rechargeable batteries Grass, leaves and garden waste are accepted from May – October

Electronic Waste

As of February 2, 2005, the City of Airdrie Recycle Depot will accept residential electronic waste. Institutional, industrial and commercial businesses in Airdrie can contact Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) directly for information regarding how to process their electronic waste.

All items collected will be recycled only and these items will not be reused. Acceptable electronic items include: • televisions • computer monitors • CPUs (including keyboards,cables,speakers) • laptops • notebook computers • printers/printer combinations

cityLIVING Cell phones, stereos, VCRs, DVD players, electronic games and fax machines are not currently included in the program, but may be added at a later date. All Albertans will be charged a n ew user f ee when purchasing electronics to offset the cost of recycling these materials.

If you have questions regarding the collection of electronic waste items contact: ARMA: 1-888-999-8762 City of Airdrie Recycle Depot: (403) 948-0246 www.albertarecycling.com Toxic Round-up Begins May 1st – September 30th

The Recycling Depot hosts two Toxic Round-Ups a year. First one is held in the first or second week of May and the second one is held at the end of September. These round-ups are your opportunity to safely and properly dispose of hazardous household wastes such as paints, solvents, cleaners, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals.

Commercial Hazardous Waste will not be accepted!

Paint Exchange Begins May 1st – September 30th

The Recycling Depot runs a paint exchange from May until the end of September. This allows people to continually recycle their paints throughout the warm season as well as encouraging the re-use of good quality paints and stains.

Empty paint cans ar e not acceptable. These can be pu t in your regular garbage, crushed with the lids removed.

Take-It or Leave-It In order to en courage reuse, the Recycle Depot also house s a small item exchange area called the Take-it or Leave-it.The Take-it or Leaveit space is a very popular area. At this location Airdrie residents have the ability to drop off unwanted items in good working condition for others to use. The free service operates on the "honour system" where residents are trusted to only leave reusable items. Certain items are not acceptable because of space, weather exposure or government regulations, including: • No furniture (i.e. couches or chairs) • No baby items (i.e. car seats or cribs) • No broken items (all items must be in good working condition) • No clothing or material (this can be put in the Salvation Army or Canadian Diabetes Bins) If residents have any questions regarding the operation of the Take-it or Leave-it, they can contact the Recycle Depot at 403-948-0246.

volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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East Lake Recreation & Wellness Centre

Ph: (403) 948 - 8804 website: www.airdrie.ca Summer 2005 Schedule - effective July 1 - August 31, 2005 CUSTOMER SERVICE

MONDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

TUESDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

WEDNESDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

THURSDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

FITNESS CENTRE 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

FRIDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

SATURDAY 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

SUNDAY 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

CHILDCARE

8:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.

8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Prebooking of child care is required - call 948 - 8804 ext. 512 8:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.

AQUATIC & AEROBIC FITNESS CLASSES

NO CLASSES: JULY 1, 2, 30 OR AUGUST 1, 2005 (DUE TO HOLIDAY WEEKENDS) MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 8:00 - 8:45 a.m.

9:15 - 10:15 a.m.

Deep Water Running Aquafit Circuit

Aquafit

11:15a.m. - 12 p.m. Older Adult Aquafit

Older Adult Aquafit

Older Adult Aquafit

12:15 - 1 p.m.

Deep Water Running

Deep Water Running

Deep Water Running

6:15 - 7 p.m.

Deep Water Running

Deep Water Running

Deep Water Running

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

SUNDAY

Aquafit Step Conditioning

Boot Camp

8 - 9 p.m.

Butts & Gutts

Tae Box

Deep Water Running

Variety

Step & Ball Deep Water Running

PLEASE NOTE: Children under the age of seven are required to be accompanied by a responsible person 16 years of age of older . Further, to ensure safety, the child is to be within arms reach of the responsible person at all times they are in the aquatic area. Patrons are required to take a cleansing shower prior to entering any of the aquatic bodies of water, steam room or before making use of the w aterslide.

AQUATIC HOURS - SUMMER 2005

The waterslide is operational during Family and Public Swim Times MONDAY Open Public Swim

1 - 4:45 p.m.

TUESDAY 1 - 9:30 p.m.

7 - 9:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY 1 - 4:45 p.m.

THURSDAY 1 - 9:30 p.m.

1 - 8 p.m.

SATURDAY 12 - 8:30 p.m.

SUNDAY 1 - 8:30 p.m.

7 - 9:30 p.m.

Teens Only Swim Parent & Tot Swim

FRIDAY

8 - 9:30 p.m.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

4:45 - 7 p.m.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

8:30 - 9:30 p.m.

8:30 - 9:30 p.m.

4:45 - 7 p.m.

Family Swim

9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

7 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

7 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Steam Room

5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 7 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

7 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Tot Pool

5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 7 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

7 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Lane Swim

5:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Adult Only Lane Swim 9 - 9:30 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

8:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Hot Tub,

Note: Schedules subject to change, please call 948-8804 for information McDonald’s Fun Place & Gymnasium schedules available at ELRWC

30

AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is happening at the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre Ever since the new $12 mill ion East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre opened last January, Airdrie and area residents have been making fitness and fun a big part of their weekly activities. From drop in fitness classes to registered swimming lessons, there is something for everyone.The gym is a great place to start a game of pick up basketball, the pool a great way to let the k ids burn off that excess energy. And upstairs, the fitness minded keep on adding kilometres to the treadmills.

88 per cent of Airdrie residents rate the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre as good or very good!

This state of the art facility offers residents: • Water slide • 6 Lane 25 metre pool • Leisure pool • Public/family and corporate change rooms • Lazy river • Steam room • Hot tub • Dance studio • Full-size gymnasium • Fitness centre • Multipurpose rooms But it doesn’t end there. Phase II development for the Centre includes dual indoor soccer pitches and an indoor running track . Phase III will see the addition of a twin arena complex. Watch AirdrieLIFE for more updates in the fall. volume 2 • spring 2005 •

AirdrieLIFE

31

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is... memories Airdrie’s first doctor

Born on a farm in Ontario, Doctor William F. Edwards settled in Airdrie in 1907 and practiced medicine until his death in 1940.

He was the only doctor for a long time between Irricana, Cochrane and Calgary. His duties varied as a c ountry doctor from treating broken bones, cuts, earaches and boils to advising and counselling new settlers.

In 1908 Dr. Edwards met and married Miss Anna McCracken, a teacher at the Dry Creek School.

In 1910, Dr. Edwards moved his small office to a la rger space that allowed him to add a soda fountain, two tables and chairs. Dr. Edwards had a flourishing ice cream and fountain parlour to add on to his growing medical practice. In 1916, Dr. Edwards bought the Airdrie Supply Store from the founder, A.E. Bowers, moved his drug store there and ran the supply store with his brother, Roy Edwards, as a junior partner. The medical office was above the store.

Doctor Edwards was a member of the Alberta Medical Association and a member of the Holy Cross Hospital staff In June 1940 Dr. Edwards contracted ‘strep’ poisoning and was taken by ambulance to the Holy Cross Hospital. His colleagues and friends tried to save him, but Doctor Edwards, age 61, passed away.

Sources One Day’s Journey. Stephen Wilk 100 Years of Nose Creek Valley History. Stephen Wilk Family History of the Edwards and the Poles. Compiled by Nellie Pole

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is protected Airdrie Emergency Services (AES) Airdrie Emergency Services is an i ntegrated fire and emergency medical service with a full time staff compliment of a Chief, an Assistant Chief, a Business Services Coordinator, one Fire Training Officer, one Medical Training Officer and an Administrative Assistant. AES has 16 full ti me Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians all w ith dual training in fire fighting. This group is s upported by 48 paid on-call fire fighters who are also medically trained.

A team typically consists of one Paramedic and one Emergency Medical Technician. AES teams are available from either station 24 hours a day, seven days per week.

AES provides the following services: • Advanced life support and ambulances • Fire suppression • Rescue • Fire prevention • Fire inspections and investigations (residential and business) • Public education • Dangerous goods incident responses

Headquarters for Airdrie Emergency Services is located at 805 M ain Street in Airdrie. A second station is lo cated at 819 Eas t Lake Boulevard on the east side of Airdrie.

AES responds to a wide variety of emergency calls including heart attacks, chest pain, shortness of breath, asthma, diabetes, brush fires, structure fires, automobile collisions, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and hazardous material incidents.

In 2004, AES fire services responded to 423 fire calls an d 114 th ird party medical responses (taking ambulance requests when ambulances are already on other calls). In addition 1919 r equests for ambulances were made to AES paramedics during 2004.

All officers are involved with presenting the following educational programs: • Bully proofing • Animal safety • Bicycle and pedestrian safety • Street proofing • Conflict resolution skills These programs are available to sc hools and community groups on request.

RCMP The Airdrie detachment of the RCMP has a roster of 25 officers with three investigative units: municipal, rural and highway.

Local support in policing the communities in the area are provided to the local police by the community supported programs including Rural Crime Watch, Citizens on Patrol, Auxiliary RCMP Officers, Neighborhood Watch, Block Parents, School Liaison and an active ongoing Victims Assistance Unit.

Airdrie Crime Statistics – actual offenses Information provided by the Airdrie RCMP.

Municipal Enforcement The Airdrie Enforcement Team consists of four Special Constables, one Co-ordinator and one full-time Administrative Assistant.

The Special Constables are responsible for enforcing local legislation and animal control.

They also enforce some provincial legislation and minor criminal code offenses.

Type 2003 Assaults 128 Disturbing the peace 200 Break & enters 96 Property damage 363 Arson 7 Theft of motor vehicles 49 Theft from motor vehicles 99

volume 2 • spring 2005 •

AirdrieLIFE

2004 137 133 102 256 2 46 104

33

cityLIVING control bylaw in 1984. All dog owners are now required to maintain control over their pets by means of a leash. The only exception to th is rule is w hen walking in designated off-leash areas or when animals are confined within personal property lines.

Off Leash Areas East Airdrie along the p athway south of the Cemetery to Spring Haven Crescent. This is the fenced area between the r esidential area and Highway #2.

Has AirdrieLIFE gone to the dogs?

N

ope – we just want to mak e sure pet owners are aware dog tags a re not a fashion statement – they a re a r equired accessory for Spot.

Lost dogs wearing a numbered tag can be easily traced to thei r owners and are therefore returned home more quickly. This greatly reduces stress on the animal as well as the concerned owner(s). (Think about the stress on poor Spot).

License applications can b e obtained from City Hall at 400 M ain Street SE. Currently the fees for these tags are: • $30 - Non spayed or neutered • $20 - Spayed or neutered • $5 - Replace lost tags Tags are valid from January 1st thru December 31st of each calendar year

To leash or not to leash?

The City of Airdrie amended its animal

West Airdrie south of 3rd Avenue to Sandstone Crescent - the fenced area between the residential area and Highway #2.

The City is in the process of identifying locations for new off leash areas as part of the 2005- 2006 Parks Master Plan preparation.

All other areas of the City require your dog to be under your control by means of a leash.

Please be considerate and always carry a plastic bag for removing pet feces. It is the L aw (Section 401 (3)).

City Administration and Government Regional Enhancement Society, Regional Recreation Board, Environment Advisory Board, Finance Committee, Twinning Committee, Aquatic Advisory Board, and the Assessment Review Board.

City Council and Administration believe in and continue to s trive for excellence in c ustomer service, continuous improvement of programs and an environment of adaptability and continuous learning.

Airdrie City Council consists of a Mayor and six Councilors elected for a th ree-year term.

Council meetings are on the f irst and third Monday of every month. Council has a n umber of Boards, Committees and Commissions reporting to and advising them on matters specific to thei r areas. These boards include: Planning Commission, Police Committee, Library Board, Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, Social Planning Board, Airdrie

34

For more information on Council’s Boards, Committees and Commissions, please contact City Clerks at (403) 948-8816.

Vision Airdrie will be known as a saf e, friendly and caring city. Our diverse community will still be the ‘best place to raise a family’. Residents will be even prouder of their vibrant community spirit and their commitment to pull together to make things happen! Foresight and effective development planning will ensure quality housing choices, parks and leisure amenities, and expanding business and local business opportunities. Airdrie will be ‘technology friendly’ – capitalizing on the opportunities of the information age.

The City of Airdrie Mission Statement Building for the future on our foundations of quality of life, economic diversity and a vibrant sense of community.

AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

400 Main Street Airdrie, AB, Canada T4B 3C3 Phone: 403-948-8800 Fax: 403-948-6567 Web site: www.airdrie.ca E-mail: economic.development@airdrie.ca

cityLIVING

Over active, over fifty.

J

an and Don Bowhay are role models for active living. In fact the hours they pu t into volunteering in and around Airdrie would exhaust someone half their age.

Since retiring and moving to Airdrie almost twenty years ago, Both Don and Jan instantly became active members of the community and have yet to slow down.

Don who will be 80 this year and Jan, turning 75, are the backbone of the Over 50 Club and help communicate the club’s activities in addition to tak ing part in as much as they can – that is w hen Don is n ot out working with Airdrie Model Airplane Club and Jan is n ot working her countless hours with the Airdrie Food Bank. Don teases Jan about how many hours she puts in, but Jan won’t be ruffled.“It’s a very important cause,” she says of the often 40 plus hours she puts in.

Jan is president of the Over 50 C lub which

really should be called the“Over Active Over 50”.

There are organized activities every day ranging from bridge lessons to ex ercise classes, there are regular meetings, potluck suppers and organized road trips to v arious venues.

The Club has a meeting room at the Town and Country Centre and currently the m embership is at 160, but Don says it would be good to have some young blood, say in the 50-60 age bracket.

The Bowhays have thrived in their retirement years in Airdrie enjoying the entertainment at Bert Church Theatre. They also enjo y the closeness to downtown of their home and still feel safe walking in their neighbourhood.They find they drive to Calgary less as Airdrie gains more and more amenities.

The Bowhays clearly have the secr et to the fountain of youth – staying involved!

volume 2 • spring 2005 •

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cityLIVING

The Richter home is a home handyman’s show piece. Randy, NeaKeah and Shauna relax in front of the fireplace Randy built. Below, NeaKeah loves her new bedroom. Mom and Dad surprised her with raspberry and orange walls and all new accessories. “I find it’s easy to buy the pieces you want and then match the paint to it,” Randy says.

AirdrieLIFE is... improving home!

W

hen Randy and S hauna Richter get the home renovation bug, big things can happen. Like the ti me they did a “While You Were Out” project on their daughter’s bedroom while she was away. NeaKeah (now thirteen) came home after a week away during Christmas break last year to discover a whole new bedroom with hot raspberry and orange stripes, funky mirrors, cool new bookcases and plenty of coordinating accessories. She was in awe, just like most of the people who simply get to the front entranceway of the Richter home in Sunridge.

Both he and Shauna love going to show homes for new ideas...

“We tiled and laminated the w hole front entrance and even delivery people comment on how great it looks,” Shauna admits. Randy can take most of the credit, Shauna says of the home they purchased in 1997 that was simply a blank canvas. Together Randy and S hauna have renovated and moved up in real estate five times since marrying in 1998. High school

36

sweethearts from George MacDougall, Randy and Shauna have always enjoyed Airdrie, so they never left, even though they both work in Calgary.

Today the Richter family enjoys life in Airdrie to the fullest and when not planning the next project around the house they can b e found riding the b ike paths, shooting hoops, and enjoying the exp anded East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre.

But back to those home improvements. Randy could have his own TV show after giving AirdrieLIFE a tour . An electrician by trade, Randy also has se veral years training in carpentry under his tool belt so the house is a testament to ho w talented he i s. Both he and Shauna love going to s how homes for new ideas,they plow through a ton of magazines and yes, watch the home improvement shows. Even NeaKeah is de veloping an interest in home design saying that watching “Extreme Home Makeover” with mom is a favorite activity.

Shauna and Randy work well together – they have painting down to a scien ce, she does all the trim and cutting in while he r olls. The

AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

biggest home reno disaster they’ve faced? “Well once Randy spilled an entire can of oil based paint – bu t I did get n ew carpet out if it!”

Shauna laughs.

The basement was unfinished when they moved in and Rand y started by building a pantry for extra storage and the work took off from there. Now the basem ent is an i nviting retreat with a built in entertainment wall, fireplace, a gorgeous bathroom (they b oth agree its their favorite project to date) and the master bedroom, which they decided to m ove downstairs just over a year ago. With the large sunshine windows and savvy décor, it doesn’t feel like a basement at all.

Randy’s handy work is e vident everywhere especially the s mart layout of lighting

A reference guide for home permits

From top: The lower level bathroom is a gorgeous retreat.

Randy designed the built-ins to house all the entertainment equipment. The detailed tile and laminate stairs in the front entrance let visitors know this is no ordinary house. Shauna and Randy scheme their next project.

throughout. Shauna admits the o nly “idea” that was hers in the lower level was the glass brick “window” in the bathroom.“But it was darn good one,” she says.

Randy smiles,“This bathroom really turned out great. I did everything but the plumbing.

It was my first real tiling experience but I had help from my brother-in-law.”

Randy designed several built-ins in the great room and master bedroom and even made his own moldings.The built-ins speak of one of Randy’s characteristics, “I am big on being organized,” he concedes. But what about Shauna?

Well lets just say that’s where we differ,” he says with a smile.

So what’s next on the to do list?

“The upstairs bathroom,“ pipes in Shauna.

“I think the laundry room,” Randy counters.

Whichever one it turns ou t to b e, rest assured it will look amazing when it’s done.

Want to spruce up the place? Check with the City of Airdrie Building Inspections Department first!

Here is a quick overview. Go to www.airdrie.ca for more detailed information or call: Building Permit Inquiries 403-948-8832 Inspection Requests 403-948-8833

Fences A building permit is not required to build a fence.

The style, colour, design etc for fences may fall under architectural guidelines set by the developer.

Decks All decks require a permit unless the deck is two feet or less in height from grade to any point on the deck surface.

Basement Development You will need to complete a Building Permit Application Form and Fee. Inspections are required at various stages for more information please call 403-948-8832.

A schedule of fees is available at City Hall or online at www.airdrie.ca.

Detached Garages and Accessory Buildings If your project is over 10 square metres then a building permit is required.

And remember the old measure TWICE, cut once! volume 2 • spring 2005 •

AirdrieLIFE

rule…

37

cityLIVING

Airdrie Transit “Getting you there”

O

n April 18, 2005, City Council approved plans to go forward with the much anticipated routed bus system. The transition from a dial-a-bus to a daytime route system will facilitate greater mobility and increase the reliability of public transit in the City.

The new system will have a total of three routes serving the built area of the City and boasts a half hour frequency, a five minute walking distance to routes from most households and will also be sporting a new look.

On July 1, 2005, Airdrie Transit will operate the following services: • •

• •

Routed service from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday to Friday Dial-a-Bus service from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm Monday to Friday and Saturday from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm Special Needs Transit service in Airdrie Monday to Friday from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm and Saturday from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm Special Needs transit service to Calgary on Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00 am to 4:30 pm

The new routes Airdrie Transit will soon have information on the new transit system on display in City Hall and on their web site www.airdrie.ca/transit. For additional information or inquiries please call 403-948-8888.

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

cityLIVING Seniors are also f inding many alternatives to choose from. Adult living is popular in condo apartments such as F letcher Village and Woodside Estates with prices ranging from $95,000 to $160,000 and for those who prefer a townhouse, the Greens at Woodside and Woodside Links offer age r estricted townhouse style living with single and double attached garages from $135,000 - $180,000.

AirdrieLIFE is... choices!

J

ust 11 years ago your choices in condos in Airdrie were very limited unless you were in the market for a s tarter home. Now Airdrie has a c ondo for just about everyone with choices ranging from a w ider selection of starter homes in either townhouse or apartment style condos right up to ex ecutive style living in townhouses with double attached garages.

Ten years ago Cal gary condominium sales made up about 15 per cent of the MLS® activ-

ity. This year that portion of the market is expected to b e up to o ver 27 p er cent. In Airdrie last year 20 per cent of the MLS® sales were condos.

The trend to c ondo living is a r esult of consumer demands for more choice in homes fitting their lifestyle. Young people starting out, empty nesters and single parent households have adopted the condo lifestyle in a big way and now they can still call Airdrie home!

For families, condo living is a g reat way to get the home you need at a price you can afford.

Some are finding that Pointe of View with prices from $95,000- $150,000 f its the b ill while others enjoy living in townhouses in The Canals, Willowbrook, Stonegate, Silver Creek, Sagewood, Edgewater, Jensen, The Fairways, Bayside, Valley Park Estates, Big Springs and Woodside ranging from $50,000 to $180,000.

Of course, Airdrie’s first condos on Allen Street starting at $100,000 c ontinue to b e popular with people who want to b e a s hort walk to the schools and shopping.

Rounding out the higher end of the scale is Cooper’s Gardens. Airdrie’s first entry into the executive townhouse market, with prices starting over $200,000 p romises to b e an exciting project.

Condo Q&A AirdrieLIFE: What are the important factors to consider when buying a condo?

Gina Grover: Location and amenities are key things, but it was important to be aware of future development as well as the typ e of the development that you are buying into. I worked with a local realtor who provided great advice and support during my search and purchase.

AL: Because it’s a condo are you still able to add your own personal touches?

GG: I admit that initially I was a bit nervous when I seriously began to consider the condo lifestyle. I had he ard that condos can b e very limiting and even structurally boring. I was

fortunate to pur chase my condo during the construction phase, therefore I was really able to put my own personal touch in it. It was crucial for me to have the freedom and creativity to make it my own! My condo represents me and my family and it very much meets the expectations that I would have for this type of lifestyle.

AL: What was main reason for choosing this lifestyle?

GG: Freedom from the outside yard maintenance. I am quite active and enjoy getting away, so the comfort of knowing things like my snow being shoveled and the lan dscaping is mai ntained, really gives me peace of mind.

AL: Any words of advice?

GG: The biggest problem that I experienced was the g rowing stages of our Condo Board.

My advice to an yone who is interested in purchasing a Condo is to get as much information as they can ab out the rules of the condo development and the o peration style of the condo board and management company. Get involved and be well informed of the condo environment and operating structure.

AL: Thanks Gina!

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cityLIVING Financial Advantages Airdrie has competitively priced industrial and commercial land. The combination of no business tax and no provincial sales tax results in substantial savings for any business locating in the City of Airdrie.

Location Advantages A unique geo graphical advantage places Airdrie immediately adjacent to Highway #2 on the Calgary/Edmonton Corridor, which links the th ree major cities of Calgary, Edmonton and Red Deer. This results in over 20 million vehicles a y ear passing through Airdrie.

Airdrie is working it!

Economic Growth The City of Airdrie Economic Development Department works to a ttract and retain economic and business growth increasing services and employment in Airdrie.

The recognized benefits of locating in Airdrie have attracted some of Canada’s leading manufacturers, processors and di stributors.

The industries in Airdrie range from

40

electronic production, food processing, oil and gas fabrication, to waste management and furniture manufacturing.

Some well-known companies such as Palliser Furniture, Western RV, ADESA, Westman Steel and Condillo Foods have established new businesses in Airdrie. These companies and others have decided to locate in Airdrie for the following reasons:

AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

The Calgary –Edmonton corridor has b een recognized as being one of the richest corridors in N orth America while still obtaining quality of life.

Highway #2 also c onnects Airdrie to the United States border, which is approximately 360 kilometres from Airdrie. Airdrie is 20 minutes away from downtown Calgary, 10

cityLIVING minutes away from an in ternational airport and 20 minutes away from major educational facilities.

High Technology For those businesses with a need to utilize high technology, the City of Airdrie offers a fiber optic line. Airdrie also has ac cess to a la rge volume of knowledge-based professionals.

Customer Service Advantages Top quality customer care is a p riority at the City of Airdrie corporate offices.

Development Permit and B uilding Permit applications are generally processed within a six to eight week period. The Economic Development department ensures questions are answered as quickly as possible.

Workforce Advantages Airdrie is located on the doorstep of the City of Calgary, which has o ne of the highest educated work forces in Canada. This close proximity to Calgary allows businesses to have access to a la rge labour force in Calgary.

Approximately 60 per cent of the Airdrie population works within Airdrie. The population tends to b e well educated with a high number of residents holding a tr ade certificate, diploma or degree.

The average household income is $70,520 with a dis posable income of $54,113 per household. The Airdrie workforce is active in all areas of industry with the major areas being retail, manufacturing, transportation, business services and health care.

insurance services to m eet the n eeds of both residents and businesses.

Chamber of Commerce Airdrie has an acti ve Chamber of Commerce and the m embership is g rowing at a s teady rate. The Chamber of Commerce and the City of Airdrie have a close working relationship ensuring the needs of the business community are heard and/or met. For more information on the Chamb er of Commerce, contact the offices at 403-948-4412.

Retail and Business/Personal Services Towerlane Mall Mainstreet Square

East Airdrie Plaza Airdrie Plaza One Summerhill Plaza Edmonton Trail Mall Village Square Plaza Big Springs Plaza Airdrie Professional Centre Yankee Valley Crossing Luxstone opening 2005 Silver Creek Shopping Centre Financial Institutions Bank of Nova Scotia Royal Bank of Canada Treasury Branch of Alberta Bow Valley Credit Union Toronto Dominion Bank

Type of Occupation by Industry (2003) TYPE OF OCCUPATION/ INDUSTRY Wholesale / Retail Government Finance / Insurance / Real Estate Education Health / Social Business / Professional Community / Personal Accommodation / Food & Beverage Transportation Communication / Utilities Construction Petroleum Manufacturing Agriculture Other No Response Total

NUMBER 1,282 601 607 611 876 1,143 278 618 1,121 491 1,143 1,013 804 201 1,346 4,242 16,387

% OF TOTAL 7.82 3.67 3.70 3.73 5.35 6.98 1.70 3.77 6.84 3.00 6.98 6.18 4.91 1.23 8.27 25.89 100.00

MAJOR EMPLOYERS Companies

Business and Retail

Companies in Airdrie

Description of Business

The number of licensed businesses in Airdrie now exceeds 900. Services include three major grocery stores, an enclosed mall an d several strip malls. Downtown Airdrie is currently enjoying a rejuvenation as new businesses are opening to p rovide a v ariety of services and products. Several new commercial centers are in the construction phase and will provide residents with even more choices and location convenience. Airdrie also o ffers complete banking, medical, accounting, real estate and

Alberta Agriculture & Regional Centre Canada Safeway Carlton Furniture City of Airdrie Condillo Foods Co-op Cutler Hammer Extra Foods Money’s Mushrooms Palliser Furniture Propak Systems Rocky View School Division Totem Trans Canada Pipelines

Animal, agriculture, irrigation Grocery outlet Furniture manufacturer Municipal Government Food processing Grocery outlet Manufacturer, electrical component Grocery Outlet Mushroom marketing and distribution Manufacturer, leather/upholstered furniture Energy processing Teachers and support staff Hardware and supplies outlet Service center for natural gas pipelines

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AirdrieLIFE is style

There are some fantastic new show homes in Airdrie right now. Here are few sneak peaks from the homes in Luxstone Westpointe and Luxstone Landing. You'll be impressed with innovative floor plans and intriguing interior design elements. Builders featured on these pages: Homestead, Prominent, Douglas, Talisman, McKee, Vesta and Gallery Homes.

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

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cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is... volunteers!

I

f Wednesday April 20th, 2005 had b een your first night in Airdrie and you decided to stop in at City Hall because “it looked like something big was going on,” you would have been duly impressed. It was Volunteer Appreciation Night celebrating Airdrie’s hundreds of volunteers with food and entertainment and of course the Volunteer of the Year Award.

The City recognized a record thirty nominees this year for the Volunteer of The Year Award. There were amazing stories of up to 30 years of service, long lists of boards and committees served, countless hours o f donated time and energy. If you had wondered around the main foyer of City Hall you would have impressed by the energy of so many who do so much. It would make you feel pretty darn good about choosing Airdrie for your home.

This year’s recipient Alan Tennant, was nominated by Betty Williams of the Airdrie Regional Recreation Enhancement Society (the c ommittee responsible for the fundraising to build the R ecreation and Wellness Centre.) Tennant also volunteers with the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, the Festival of Lights and is a m ember of Honorary Fund Development Committee for the Airdrie Public Library.

The City chose Tennant because,“Alan puts his heart and experience to work for this community. He cares about Airdrie.” Tennant believes, “Volunteerism empowers citizens to do the possible.”

To all the Airdrie citizens, who make this a great community, thank you!

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is community minded!

AIRDRIE DRAG RACING TEAM Contact: Harry Svingen 403-948-2962 Ed Dyck 403-948-3074 Rod Havens 403-948-7214 Mail: 197 Acacia Drive Airdrie, AB T4B 1G6 For men and women interested in performance cars, bracket or drag racing. We compete on a 1/4 mile dr agstrip. Keep racing off the streets and on the track where it is safe, fun and legal.

Community Contacts AIRDRIE BOWLING CLUB Location: 805 East Lake Blvd Airdrie, AB Phone: 403-948-3404 Fax: 403-948-4685 Airdrie Bowling Club - Youth A structured program with qualified instruction for youth three - 19 y ears. This program teaches basics as w ell as ad vanced instruction. With the o pportunity to go to national competitions.

Airdrie Bowling Club - Senior A Bowling Club for Seniors 55+, a fun social outing to s pend some time with friends, socialize and get so me mild ex ercise at the same time.

Airdrie Bowling Club - Adult Come join and meet new friends. Adult leagues are available weeknights and a n onsmoking league on Sunday.

Airdrie BMX Location: Fletcher Park, Airdrie Track Hotline: 403-912-2012 BMX is a family sport, with an age range from five to 50 with skill level from beginner to world class athletes. Airdrie BMX has o ver 200 members that race from April to September. Home of Multiple World Champion Samantha Cools.

AIRDRIE CURLING CLUB Location: 275 Jensen Drive NE Airdrie, AB T4B 2B8 Booking Information: 403-948-7100 Gary Ritchie Club/Pro Shop: 403-948-7100 A recreational, family and competitive curling club which operates from October to March.

Ice rentals are available and a p ro shop is located at the rink.

AIRDRIE & DISTRICT SPECIAL OLYMPICS Contact: Sue Couchman Mail: 67 Springwood Cres.,Airdrie,AB T4B 1S7 Phone: 403-948-7222 Provides recreational and competitive sporting opportunities for Special Needs individuals of all ages.

AIRDRIE EDGE GYMNASTICS CLUB Location: Twin Arena Complex Airdrie, AB Phone: 403-948-7769 Web site: www.airdrieedge.com Recreational or competitive. Gymnastics, trampoline and tumbling. From 18 months and up. A whole lot of flippin' fun!

AIRDRIE JU-JITSU Location: Airdrie, AB Phone: 403-239-9467 Cell: 403-607-0621 The Airdrie Ju-jitsu is te aching self-defence techniques on how to defend against a variety of attacks. We are teaching practical and effective self-defence. Affiliated with Alberta Ju-jitsu Association. Ju-jitsu is a ma rtial arts combining Karate,Aikido, and Judo. Come try a class!

AIRDRIE DANCE ACADEMY Contact: Susan Laing Location: 291070 Yankee Valley Road Phone: 403-948-5530 Web site: www.airdriedance.ca Airdrie Dance Academy offers classes for boys and girls in jazz, tap, ballet, highland, musical theatre, hip hop and creative (pre-school).

Ages range from four to adult. Tuition fees start at $33 p er month. Classes run from September until the en d of May. An annual recital at Bert Ch urch Theatre is the f inal event in the dance season.

Airdrie and District Soccer Association

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cityLIVING AIRDRIE RINGETTE ASSOCIATION Mail: Box 3086, Airdrie, AB T4B 2B4 For ages five and up. Ringette is a te am sport which is played on ice with a straight stick and ring. Our goal is to en courage the p hysical, mental, social and moral development of individual participants within the h igh standards of safety, sportsmanship, personal excellence and equipment. Volunteer coaches are required.

AIRDRIE LADIES FASTBALL LEAGUE Mail: P.O. Box 5314 Airdrie, AB T4B 2T9 Contact: Jordy Robins 403-267-1991(WK) or Linda Raymond 403-948-4699 Season begins late April and runs through to mid July every year, for women 18 years plus.

We are a recreational A.A.S.A. registered "C" level league, currently with twelve teams. If you'd like to join a team, contact us.

AIRDRIE LITTLE LEAGUE Phone: 403-948-6555 (Info Line - Year Round) Mail: Box 3885, Airdrie, AB T4B 2B9 Web site: www.airdrielittleleague.com For boys and girls, 5 - 18 years. Little league is devoted to te aching our y outh baseball, fair play, team work and how to ha ve fun. We depend on volunteers like yourself to run our league and teach the kids.

AIRDRIE MINOR BASKETBALL Phone: Harvey Neumiller 403-948-7514 Web site: www.intouchsystems.net/intouch/amba For boys and girls ages eight and up.

Community league with Mini, Bantam, Midget and Juvenile levels of play. Coaches and players who love b-ball w anted! Season runs October to March.

AIRDRIE OVER FIFTY CLUB Phone: Don and Jan Bowhay 403-948-5812 Location: Clubroom at the Town and Country Centre Daily activities and special events for the over fifty crowd. Over 150 members.

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AIRDRIE RODEO RANCH ASSOCIATION Contact: Clint McLeod or Sylvia Kerr Mail: Box 3663, Airdrie, AB T4B 2B8 Phone: 403-948-0512 Web site: www.airdrieprorodeo.net A group of volunteers dedicated to organizing and hosting the Airdrie Pro Rodeo, the Miss Airdrie Rodeo Pageant and the July 1st Rodeo Parade.

AIRDRIE SKATING CLUB Location: Plainsmen Arena, Airdrie, AB Phone: 403-948-7183 We offer nationally recognized programs designed to te ach basic skating skills and to provide individuals of all ages with an opportunity for fun, fitness, achievement and a sense of personal satisfaction. Awards and incentives are used to m otivate skaters to develop their skills. An excellent start for hockey, ringette and figure skating.

AIRDRIE AND DISTRICT SOCCER ASSOCIATION Mail: P.O. Box 80021, Towerlane Postal Outlet Airdrie, AB T4B 2V8 Phone: 403-948-6260 Web site: www.airdriesoccer.com Programs for soccer players ages four and up.

Community leagues run from April to June for youth players. Competitive play for youth in the Calgary Minor Soccer Association both outdoor (April through July) and indoor seasons (October through March). Adult programs indoor and outdoor playing with CUSA and CWSA in Calgary. Coaches and players who love soccer are welcomed!

AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

AIRDRIE STORM FOOTBALL Phone: 403-912-0070 Web site: www.eteamz.com/airstorm The Storm is committed to de veloping basic football skills and providing our youth with a fun and safe environment to enjoy the game of football. All skill levels are welcome.

AIRDRIE TAE KWON DO AIRDRIE TAE BOXING ACADEMY OF CHAMPIONS Location: 536 - 2nd Avenue, Airdrie, AB, T4B 2C2 Phone: 403-948-5760 Everald Wright, Master Instructor Level #3, 5th Dan Black Belt E-mail: airdrietkdandkb@shaw.ca Learn respect and discipline with Tae Kwon Do. AIRDRIE THUNDER JUNIOR HOCKEY CLUB Mail: 80 Waterstone Cres Airdrie, AB T4B 2E5 Contact: Frank McEvoy, President & General Manager Phone: 403-948-7511 Fax: 403-912-1762 Web site: www.airdriethunder.com Play in the Heritage Junior Hockey League.

League Champions 1997-98 and 1999-2000.

Silver Medallist Western Canadian Champions 1999-2000. Training camp annually mid-September.

AIRDRIE YOGA STUDIO Location: 216, 125 Main Street Contact: Joan Bell Phone: 403-945-1825 Web Site: www.airdrieyoga.com Yoga, pilates and tai c hi are just some of the classes available at this new dual studio facility.

Registered and drop in classes.

BADMINTON CLUB Contact: Chris Gardner Phone: 403-948-6642 Location: Meadowbrook School Thursdays 8 - 10 pm From September through May, for ages 16 and up.

cityLIVING CITY OF AIRDRIE #88 ROYAL AIR CADET SQUADRON Contact: A/Captain Carol Hartwick Phone: 403-880-3253 Location: Wednesday nights, Cam Clark Ford Dealership, 909 Irricana Road, Airdrie, AB A national program for youth 12 - 19 y ears old. Take part in challenging activities such as flying, gliding, camping, band and sports while developing leadership, self-confidence and physical fitness. Rewards include summer camps, scholarships, community involvement and new friends.

GOSHINDO KARATE / AIRDRIE J.K.A. Location: Airdrie Phone: 403-239-9467 Cell: 403-607-0621 E-mail: dverzotti@shaw.ca The Goshindo Karate Club is te aching Traditional Shotokan Karate. The Chief Instructor, Daniel Verzotti, holds a 3rd degree Black Belt from the Japan Karate Association.

Affiliated with Karate Alberta Association, National Karate Association, International Shotokan Karate Association and Japan Karate Association. Come try a free class!

HORIZON TAEKWON-DO Contact: Aron Johnston Phone: 403-912-6TKD (853) Horizon Taekwon-Do is a famil y oriented club offering classes Mon-Thur. Ages seven and up. Learn self defense, goal setting, confidence and discipline while having fun!

Come try us out for free.

JAZZERCISE Location: Kensho Karate Facility 16C East Lake Green NE Phone: 403-948-4727 or 403-816-4899 Contact: Christine Jackson Jazzercise classes available Mon., Wed. and Fri. mornings at 9:30 an d Wed. evenings at 6:30pm. Come join the fun and get fit!

IMESON HIGHLAND DANCERS Head Instructor: Jessica Imeson Address: 16 C East Lake Green N.E. Airdrie, AB T4A 2J2 Phone: 403-912-0726 Fax: 403-912-1570 Cell: 403-701-0726 E-mail: jessicai@pfscalgary.com Looking for something different, athletic, educational, traditional, FUN? Come dance to the tune of the bagpipes! Recreational to championship training. Member of SDTA, Highland & National member / S DC member / CHDA member. Tiny Tots four - f ive years old. Beginners & ad vanced six years old and up. Private lessons available. Fully qualified instruction.

KENSHO KARATE CLUB Head Instructor: Ian Scully Weapons Instructor: Mike Meakin Address: 16 C East Lake Green N.E. (side entrance) Airdrie, AB T4A 2J2 Phone: 403-912-1903 E-mail: kensho@shaw.ca Web site: www.members.shaw.ca/kensho Traditional Shotokan Karate with certified black belt instruction. Affiliated with Karate Alberta and the Tsoruoka Karate Federation of Canada. Classes for five - eigh t year olds, basics six years, to adults, advanced nine years to adults and Weapons. Try Karate as a family sport for the he alth of it, recreational to competitive.

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cityLIVING NOSE CREEK SWIM ASSOCIATION (Airdrie Competitive Swim Club) Mail: NCSA, Beddington Postal Outlet, Box 51002, Calgary, AB T3K 3V9 Phone: 403-208-5353 Fax: 403-208-5355 Web site: http://members.shaw.ca/ncsaswim/ The goal of the Nose Creek Swim Association is to promote and support a highly competitive swim program, as well as en courage a r ecreational swim component. NCSA is c ommitted to p roviding a s uperior coaching staff accessible to all levels of swimming ability.

ROCKYVIEW RAMBLERS SQUARE DANCE CLUB Contact: Myrtle & Ron Jones 403-226-0100 John & Helen Paddon 403-912-4141 Mailing Address P.O. Box 5142, Airdrie,AB T4B 2B2 Ages 18 years and up. Modern Square Dancing is o ne of Airdrie's best kept secrets.

Club has been active for 25 years, new dancer lessons begin in September at the U nited Church Hall.

STAR BATON & DANCE COMPANY Location: East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre Phone: 403-948-9999 E-mail: mandy@starbaton.com Web site: www.starbaton.com STAR Baton and Dance Company offers professional instruction in tap, jazz, ballet, acrobatics, musical theatre, lyrical, baton twirling, pre school classes and specialty classes. The teachers are qualified and certified under A.D.A.P.T., R.A.D., C.B.T.F., and more. Exam and competition classes offered, as well as recreational style classes.

Bow Valley Credit Union, Airdrie

Branch

104 - 1st Ave. NE, Airdrie AB T4B 2B7 p (403) 948-6737 f (403) 948-6056 www.bowvalleycu.com Ken J. Koob, Branch Manager Branch hours: Monday - Wednesday: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm Thursday: 9;30 am to 7:00 pm Friday: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

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AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

cityLIVING Airdrie Victory Church 308-1 Avenue SE • 403-948- 8774 Bahai Faith 403-948-3504 or 403-948-6072 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 1504 Main Street 403-948-0387 or 403-948-0394 Faith Community Baptist Church 2104 Big Hill Springs Road 403-948-6727 or 403-948-5663 Grace Baptist Church 1009 East Lake Blvd. • 403-948-3821

Health and Social Services

Airdrie Family Services Society 403-912-8451 • 403-912-8452 www.airdriefamilyservices.ca

AADAC Alberta Alcohol & Drug Abuse Commission 403-912-3306 www.aadac.com/index_flash.htm

Block Parents Association 403-948-0118 • 403-948-6184

Airdrie Food Bank 403-912-8500 • 403-912-8502 Airdrie Mental Health 403-948-3878 www.calgaryhealthregion.ca/mh/ airdrie.htm Airdrie Seniors Outreach Program 403-316-9955 Bow Valley College 403-948-6556 www.bowvalleycollege.ca/prospective_students/rural_airdrie.htm Meals On Wheels 403-948-6625 • 403-912-8502 Airdrie & District Victims Assistance 403-948-3220 • 403-948-6154 Airdrie and District Youth Justice Committee 403-948-7110 • 403-297-4501 Bethany Care Centre - Airdrie 403-948-6022 • 403-948-3897 www.bethanycare.com Boys & Girls Club of Airdrie 403-948-3331 • 403-948-5132 www.abgc.8m.com

Closer To Home 403-948-9776 • 403-948-9774 R. J. Hawkey Breakfast Program 403-948-3939 • 403-948-3941 www.rockyview.ab.ca/rjhawkey Canadian Red Cross Society 403-541-4436 • 403-541-6129 Calgary and Area Child and Family Services Authority 403-912-4758 www.calgaryandareacfsa.gov.ab.ca North Rocky View Community Resource Centre 403-948-0263 • 403-948-0226 www.yourcrc.com St. Johns’ Ambulance 403-948-6977 Airdrie Employment Services 403-948-9711 • 403-948-9715 Human Resources and Employment (Income Support) 403-297-1953 • 403-297-8639

Airdrie Regional Health Centre Location: 604 Main Street, S. Airdrie Ph: 403-912-8400 Early Start Ph: 403-244-8351 Health Link Ph: 403-943-5465 Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm Alternate Tuesday evenings by appointment only Programs, Services and Clinics Offered at the Centre: Well Child (Vaccinations) by appointment: 403-912-8400 Baby & You: 403-912-8400 School Health: 403-912-8400 New Baby Visits - Best Beginnings: 403-912-8400 Adult Wellness: 403-912-8400 Seniors Wellness: 403-912-8400 Home Care: 403-912-8431 Adult Day Support Program: 403-912-8431 Audiology: 403-235-0359 Speech / Language Pathology: 403-912-8400 Oral Health / Dental: 403-912-8400 Environmental Health: 403-943-8060 Alberta Aids to Daily Living: 403-912-8431

Airdrie Churches Airdrie Public Library 403-948-0600 • 403-912-4002 www.airdriepubliclibrary.ca

Airdrie Alliance Church 1604 Summerfield Blvd.

403-948-3818 www.airdriealliance.com

Jehovah’s Witness 1128 Thornburn Drive 403-948-4430 Living Springs Christian Fellowship Big Springs Road & 16th Street SW 403-948-7724 Lutheran Church of the Master 216 Main Street South 403-948-3567 Seventh Day Adventist Church 212 1 Avenue NE 403-247-0792 or 403-946-5407 St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church 132 Albert Street • 403-948-2940 St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church 1305 Main Street • 403-948-5394 The Gathering Place The Church for Life Meets at St. Martin de Porres High School, 410 Big Springs Rd. 403-561-9015 www.gatheringplaceairdrie.org United Church of Canada 212 1 Avenue NE • 403-948-5527 Waterbrook Community Church 130 Albert Street • 403-948-0388 www.waterbrookchurch.com

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cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is... mine

A

aahhh…spring! I get g iddy just thinking about all the th ings I can f inally start doing like gardening, inline skating, gardening, bike riding, gardening, walking out the door without a jac ket and did I m ention… gardening?

There’s something about the m onth of May that brings Airdrie and area residents out of their winter shells. It usually starts with the Home and Garden Fair in April. You can just feel the excitement in the air. Everyone is eager to get out and do stuff. Start stuff. See stuff.

And of course, this being the spring and summer issue, a focus on gardening is a m ust.

Airdrie residents have an en ormous sense o f pride in their yards – you can tell. And okay, yes, I am pretty proud of mine - that’s my garden pictured here.

And there is so much going on around us right now – new homes are springing up out of the

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ground like crocuses. Construction crews are buzzing around like worker bees.

Kent Rupert with the City jokes that our official City emblem right now could be the surveyor’s stake. “We’ve got them i n every corner!” he says. And he’s right. I’ve never seen Airdrie so alive with activity. It’s all in the name of progress. More amenities, more choices, right here at home.

Putting together this second issue of AirdrieLIFE was just as exciting. There is so much I wanted to cram into this magazine simply because there is so m uch going on.

From five year old Dayton to Don who’s almost 80, I found stories to s hare with you that give you an idea of what a great community we live in.

I can’t thank the readers enough who have sent feedback on our first issue. I love hearing what you think and please tell me what you’d like to see in the fall by emailing me at airdrielife@shaw.ca

Sherry Shaw-Froggatt We’ve created an expanded events section this issue, so start marking your calendar! It’s going to be a great summer.

AirdrieLIFE • spring 2005 • volume 2

AirdrieLIFE Fall Edition – watch for it in early October.

Extra wide lots, priced at a lot less! Home sites average 44 feet wide.

Thorburn Meadows is part of an established community that is close to everything; schools, shopping, parks, playgrounds, the recreation centre and much more.

Come see this great community today!

$

All from the

Showhomes Open:

McKee Homes 948-9726

220’s 4 - 8pm Monday through Thursday, 12 - 5pm Weekends & Holidays.

Layne Homes 948-7360

Loreck Homes 948-9468

Reid Built Homes 948-3856 www.qualicocommunities.com

This could be your new backyard...

BEAUTIFUL

PARKS

• TREE-LINED

BOULEVARDS

A picturesque hill provides the setting for Airdrie's premier community. Cooper's Crossing.

Small town living is everything you've imagined, with destinations measured in minutes, not hours of traf fic jams.

Land and home prices that are the envy of all those paying big city prices. Airdrie truly of fers the best of both worlds, friendly country living with big city conveniences a short drive away .

Covering 320 acres on Airdrie's scenic south side, Cooper's Crossing is a master-planned community with gorgeous homes on large sites. An extensive network of parkland and trails meanders through the neighbourhood, providing the perfect place for families to explore and play . Nearby shopping and schools are only a casual stroll through the park from your stylish home. Choose one of Alberta's top builders to construct your dream home on a wide variety of homesites, including park lots, walk-out lots and laned lots.

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912-5462 948-4635 948-2536 912-5829

For more information, contact WestMark at 948-5300 www.cooperscrossing.ca