Chestermere City Council is enhancing connectivity throughout the community, with the East Side Trails Connectivity Project.
In July, city administration was authorized to begin work to incorporate pedestrian crosswalks and walkways on Merganser Dr., Township Road 241, and Sandpiper Lane.
City administration began four rounds of public engagement, including an online survey and an open house regarding the east side no parking recommendation to create multi-use pathways.
Each residence that would be affected by the project was sent a letter of invitation to the open house sessions.
The online survey asked residents if they would benefit from a multi-use pathway system.
“Although 45 per cent of the responses said ‘Yes’, it was clarified in the engagement a lot of residents would prefer a formal space to the line painting and felt the question was not conclusive,” Growth and Development Officer Carly Davies said during the Feb. 14 council meeting. The survey also indicated to respondents that some areas would be no parking zones in order to access the multi-use pathways.
Throughout the public engagement process, Davies received frequent comments from residents explaining that they do not want to lose parking, either build a proper sidewalk or do nothing, safety is key, speed is a concern for pedestrians, concerns of having a false sense of security, and that this is an enforcement issue, not an infrastructure issue.
The survey indicated that the walkway solution is possibly the only option due to costs and retrofitting the existing roadway.
“During the public engagement, concerns arose around how to answer the survey. The questions seemed opposing comments. The general response was, ‘Yes there are safety concerns, no I don’t want this particular solution,” Davies said.
Residents’ suggestions from the engagement included moving mailboxes at Sunset Park to a south location, lowering the speed limit, adding crosswalks to already existing pathways, adding speed bumps on roadways,
addressing bus stops and high pedestrian areas, and addressing the East Merganser Dr. and East Chestermere Drive intersection.
After reviewing the feedback provided by residents, city administration recommended that traffic and pedestrian safety at the East Chestermere Drive and East Merganser Dr. intersection be reviewed by an engineering consultant, and move the stop sign to East Merganser Dr. Administration recommended reducing the speed along East Lakeview Road from 50 km/h to 40 km/h and reducing the speed from 40 km/h to 30 km/h on Sandpiper Lane.
“While other opportunities are investigated, it would be ideal to utilize the existing pathway systems and filter pedestrians to them where possible. Increasing safety at intersections throughout the approved project is great,” Davies said.
City administration also suggested adding East Chestermere Link to the scope of the project, to fix drainage issues, and provide a safe link to the pathway by the school and sports fields.
“This is a major drop-off zone for school, and this would increase the safety of parking in this area,” Davies said.
The total budget for the scope of the project is $595,000.
Davies explained the benefits of the project including upgrading safety, promoting an active lifestyle, enhancing cyclist and driver interactions, enhancing connectivity throughout the community, providing a driving alternative, and expanding the lake loop.
To move the project forward, council directed administration to obtain high-level cost and public consultation with residents in the affected area, and to obtain cost and design for the East Chestermere Drive and East Merganser Dr. intersection and add two crosswalks.
City administration was also directed to implement a speed reduction for a small portion of Sandpiper Lane from East Chestermere to Kinniburgh Blvd. from 40 km/h to 30 km/h, and to proceed with crosswalks on East Chestermere Link and East Lake View Road, and at Camp Chestermere’s main entrance.
Canadian entrepreneurial moms have an opportunity to compete in a dragon’s den-like competition, Canada’s Total Mom Pitch, for the fifth year.
Through the program, $50,000 for grants and services is awarded for the best mom idea, with a focus on the power of education and community, in support of Canadian women entrepreneurs, Maverick Public Relations Account Coordinator Emma Gostovic explained.
Total Mom Inc. is a professional community network helping ambitious women founders start and grow their businesses while juggling motherhood.
Total Mom Inc. CEO Anna Sinclair started the program in 2017, after discovering first-hand the need for support for busy moms.
Total Mom Inc. is a 100 per cent women-owned company helping women across Canada access education and connections and is breaking down the barriers to build a profitable and sustainable business, a media release said.
“Total Mom Inc. exists because it’s simply unrealistic to expect women to have to choose between their career and raising a family,” Sinclair said. “We are dedicated to building an organization that supports working women, and we plan to grow our programs and events. Total Mom Pitch is an exciting program that fuels our dedication to women.”
The grant program helps women who are growing their businesses and raising their families and gives them support and resources including funding, education, mentorship, and community support.
“It empowers real women with an ambitious vision to overcome the barriers they face as modern moms in today’s unpredictable economy,” the release said.
Canadian moms can submit their business vision online at, totalmompitch.ca, until March 20.
Applicants must complete a voting process, where the top 100 small businesses will be put through a business accelerator program, increasing
visibility across the country, the release said.
The top five finalists will have a chance to pitch their idea at the Canadian Women Entrepreneur Industry Gala, in front of leading companies, executive judges, media, and influencers on May 30.
With support from organizations such as The Scotiabank Women Initiative, Visa, American Express, UPS, VistaPrint, GoDaddy, Export Development Canada (EDC), and the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
Total Mom Inc. helps moms access education, connections and funding.
“Total Mom Pitch partners with companies supporting equality, diversity and inclusion. It does so through recognition, awards, scholarships, and partnership opportunities for business growth,” the release said.
This year, Total Mom Inc. has partnered with Bell to share entrepreneurial mother stories.
“As an organization, we admire how Bell is advancing how Canadians connect with each other and the world, while also championing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Bell’s desire to support the personal and professional advancement of women entrepreneurs is why we will be working together over the next two years through Canada’s Total Mom Pitch initiative, and a new scholarship program that provides business education for hard-working women raising a family,” Sinclair said.
In addition to the new Bell partnership, Total Mom Inc. is also working with huumans, which will offer bookkeeping support for participants.
“Our daily mission is to elevate entrepreneurs and support small business ownership, making it as accessible as possible,” huumans Chief Executive Officer Paula Festas said. “We’ve seen firsthand, the obstacles that women, especially mothers, face when starting a small business. We are grateful to work alongside Total Mom Inc., which understands the importance of equitable access to entrepreneurship.”
For more information, visit the Total Mom Inc. website at, www.totalmompitch.ca.
The provincial government is investing an additional $10 million to help students overcome learning disruptions caused by the pandemic.
The investment will be available to help students who need help developing foundational skills in numeracy and literacy.
“Alberta’s government is building on last year’s success, where we helped at-risk students catch up to their peers by more than half a year’s worth of learning. We are taking action to prevent future challenges for our youngest learners, who are in the critical years of their development,” Minister of Education Adriana LaGrange said.
The newly announced funding is in addition to other supports the provincial government has implemented to address pandemic-related learning disruptions, a government of Alberta press release said.
In 2021/2022, $45 million was allocated to extra support for students in Grades 1 to Grade 3, which supported 70,000 students in developing literacy and numeracy skills.
Data collected by the provincial government
indicated that approximately 20 per cent of students required further help to catch up. The investment will help school authorities continue to support the same cohort of students, who are now in Grades 2 to Grade 4. School authorities, teachers, and parents’ feedback has indicated that students in Grade 1 had challenges in their reading and math skills due to learning disruptions when they were in kindergarten or preschool.
“Early literacy and early numeracy skills are strong predictors of a child’s long-term academic achievement,” the release said. “It’s important to ensure students who are just starting in school can develop the foundational skills they will need to build on in later grades.”
School authorities will have the ability to develop programs to fit their student’s needs, by hiring additional teachers and educational assistants, providing staff with more training, or purchasing more resources.
“If educators can identify and help struggling learners early, those students can catch up to grade level relatively quickly,” the release said.
“By providing extra support to Alberta’s youngest
students now, the government will help prevent future learning difficulties.”
School authorities can apply for funding immediately.
School authorities will also reassess students at the end of the school year to measure their progress, to ensure students get the help they need sooner.
“The Alberta School Boards Association appreciates this investment to address learning disruptions for Grade 1 students to support the development of foundational skills. This will assist school boards as they continue to support young learners and make informed decisions based on the needs of their local school communities,” the president of the Alberta School Boards Association Marilyn Dennis said. The new investment of $10 million is part of the provincial government’s commitment to allocate $110 million over three years for students experiencing academic and mental health challenges.
Budget 2022 also included $1.4 billion in learning support funding to meet the specialized learning needs of students.
Chestermere Fire Services (CFS) Chief Jamie Coutts presented city council with strategies to ensure high-intensity residential fire regulations are met.
High-intensity residential fires involve a rapid heat release, and spread beyond the point of origin, usually involving adjacent buildings, Coutts explained during the Feb. 14 council meeting.
High-intensity residential fires can occur in occupied residential buildings, unoccupied residential buildings that are under construction, and a mix of occupied and under-construction residential buildings.
Under the Alberta Building Code, municipal fire departments must meet a 10-minute emergency response time.
Buildings that are located further away from the fire department must have additional fire protection, such as non-combustible siding, sprinkler systems, no side-yard windows, and increased distance from property lines.
“Buildings that incorporate these changes can slow the spread of fire and
delay a fire becoming out of control or a high-intensity residential fire,” Coutts said. “Additional fire protection measures slow the spread of fire by containing or suppressing it and giving the fire department vital extra minutes to arrive before the fire spreads out of control or becomes a highintensity residential fire.”
The 10-minute rule within CFS includes 1.5 minutes for call handling, two minutes for crew assembly at the fire department, five minutes to travel, and 1.5 minutes for setup upon arrival.
To ensure the 10-minute emergency response time, Coutts suggested improving road connectivity within the city, ensuring developers build homes following the building code protection, moving the fire department to a central location, building an additional fire department, increasing staff, or having some staff temporary stay in a different area of the city.
Chestermere City Council accepted Coutts’ presentation as information and will review the options presented to ensure a 10-minute emergency response time.
Published since 2000, The Chestermere Anchor News Magazine is a hyper-local digital publication that provides readers local news coverage, community and social events, information on local shopping, and contemporary coverage of arts and entertainment.
The Anchor reaches more than 30,000 active, educated and affluent readers, who look to the Anchor to guide their lifestyle, shopping and entertainment choices. Readers rely on the Anchor’s coverage of local social issues, politics, arts and culture to keep themselves apprised of what is happening in their community.
The residents of Chestermere, Langdon, Conrich, Lyalta, and area are nothing like you’ve seen elsewhere in the region. Literate, Highly articulate, Politically aware, and Socially conscious. They are a group with a mind all their own.
To reach out to our eclectic group of readers, you need an eclectic publication. The Chestermere Anchor’s magazine style reaches that group of people.
Hyper-Local news has always occupied a specific niche in the media marketplace. We are a vehicle for highly localized communications, linked to community interests and issues.
The views, opinions and positions expressed by all columnists and contributors are the author’s alone. They do not inherently or expressly reflect the views, opinions and/or positions of The Chestermere Anchor News Magazineor Anchor Media Inc.
NC) As a newcomer to Canada, there’s a lot to figure out and get used to. Doing your taxes is an important step. It gets you access to benefit and credit payments to help make rent, pay for childcare or have a little extra for activities.
For instance, if you are single, you could be eligible for up to $467 a year through a quarterly payment called the Goods and Services Tax/ Harmonized Sales Tax Credit. If you have a family, you could be eligible for more.
Depending on your immigration status, and if you have children, you may be eligible for the monthly Canada child benefit. This may entitle you to receive up to $6,997 a year for each child under six and up to $5,903 a year for each child aged six to 17.
You could also get support if you have a disability or support a family member with a disability.
Here’s
• As a newcomer to Canada, you will need to apply for a social insurance number (SIN) with Service Canada.
• Apply for benefits and credits as soon as you get your social insurance number.
• You can apply to get the Canada child benefit, the GST/HST credit, and any related federal, provincial and territorial programs.
• You may also be eligible to apply for the one-time top-up to the Canada housing benefit, or the new Canada dental benefit if you have children under the age of 12.
To continue to receive benefits and credits, you and your spouse or common-law partner need to do your taxes every year, even if you have little or no income. The deadline is April 30th. Because April 30th is a Sunday this year, you’ll have until May 1, 2023.
Doing your taxes will also allow you to claim a refund or let you know if you have to pay tax.
If you need help doing your taxes and have a simple tax situation and a modest income, volunteers may be able to do them for you for free through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program, or the Income Tax Assistance - Volunteer Program in Quebec.
You can also use the Canada Revenue Agency’s free online learn about your taxes tool to help you understand how to do your taxes on your own either online using NETFILE-certified software (some of which are free) or on paper using an income tax package.
Or you can hire a tax preparer, for a fee.
Have questions? Find more information at canada.ca/new-to-canada.
Canada’s First Cannabis Boutique Hotel
Now Open!
Welcome to Mary Jane Manor: a private, cannabis-friendly hotel offering boutique experiences and events with onsite consumption permitted throughout the property. This unique space was created for guests to have educational and memorable experiences with cannabis.
Like a home away from home, Mary Jane Manor is the perfect setting for your romantic get away, private event, health and wellness retreats, conferences, educational courses and more. www.maryjanemanor.ca
The Rocky View Schools (RVS) Board of Trustees approved the 2023/24 budget development process during the Feb. 9 school board meeting.
The timeline for the development of the 2023/24 operating budget includes budget priorities, fees, department budgets, funding allocation formulas, and considerations for approval.
“We’re waiting for provincial budget at the end of February,” RVS Director of Finance Steve Thomas said.
In March, the RVS budget committee will begin discussions around school fees, impacts, and the outcome of the provincial budget.
“March will be devoted to school administration tasks, reviewing budget priorities with internal departments, finalizing allocation formulas for the schools, and waiting for funding profiles from the ministry of education,” Thomas said. “We are expecting we won’t see the specific impacts of the funding profiles until the end of March.”
Thomas and the budget committee are targeting to open school and departmental budget templates in April.
In May, the proposed school and community
use fees, and departmental budgets will be reviewed, before the budget is finalized.
“This is a similar process that we’ve used in the last number of years, we continue to tweak it and adjust it,” Superintendent of Schools Greg Luterbach said. “We try to be respectful of schools and give them sufficient time to work on their budget.”
All of the RVS trustees are involved in the budget committee and continue to be engaged in the budget process.
Ward 3 RVS Trustee Melyssa Bowmen explained that its important administration shares the process and timeline of the budget while highlighting the work of the budget committee. “There is so much that goes into approving a division-wide budget, the process helps people to recognize the depth of the work that’s going on,” Bowmen said. “I’m comfortable with where we are at as far as the process, and grateful for the work behind it.”
Conflict and bullying aren’t the same things. One describes a healthy dialogue between two parties, while the other represents an intent to harm someone else. Learning to deal with conflict healthily can give you essential social skills. It can also help you better identify bullying.
WHAT’S CONFLICT?
Conflict is a normal part of life and happens when two people respectfully disagree. The two parties have equal power in the relationship, and each has a chance to express their views.
Even though there may be negative emotions and hurtful words exchanged, both people are looking for a solution and don’t want to harm each other. Each person takes responsibility for their actions and modifies their behaviour if they feel they’ve made the other person feel bad. Conflict can often lead to two people learning to solve problems and overcome challenges.
WHAT’S BULLYING?
Unlike conflict, the goal of bullying is to hurt, harm, insult or humiliate another person and make them feel bad about themselves. The actions are unwanted and unwarranted, and the bullied person has little power to stop them. Bullying can result in physical and emotional harm.
Bullying happens when one person uses their power
to control another. Power can mean the bully is bigger, stronger, older or more popular than the person they’re bullying. Moreover, bullies aren’t trying to resolve anything and show no remorse if they hurt someone else. There’s no interest in a relationship with the other person.
This Pink Shirt Day, February 22, stand up to bullying when you see it. Don’t be afraid to share your views and express your opinions constructively. Not all conflict is bad.
Understanding the reasons for bullying may help you handle the behaviours. Here are a few common reasons why some kids bully.
LACK OF ATTENTION
According to STOMP Out Bullying, most
kids bully because they lack attention at home and lash out for attention. They may suffer neglect or have parents with substance addictions.
BULLIED AT HOME
If a child is bullied at home by siblings or parents, they’re more likely to empower themselves by hurting others. Bullying is a learned behaviour, and most kids learn it at home.
POOR SELF-ESTEEM
Bullies often try to make others feel bad to make themselves feel better. They often say they feel
powerful when humili a ting others. Many feel they must dominate others to feel in control.
IGNORANCE
Common characteristics targeted by bullies are different physical appearance, race, ethnicity, gender, disability, religion and sexual orientation. Some kids bully because they lack understanding of other cultures, backgrounds and identities.
When dealing with bullying, it’s essential to understand that everyone needs to feel included and loved. This Pink Shirt Day, February 22, fight bullying with supportive actions.
6 types of kids most likely to be bullied
Anyone can be a victim of bullying. However, kids with any of these six characteristics may be more susceptible than others.
2. Vulnerable. Children who are introverted, anxious or lacking in self-esteem are more likely to be bullied. Bullies target these children because they’re less likely to fight back.
3. Isolated. Many bullying victims have few friends and are excluded from social events. You can help stop bullying by befriending kids who have trouble making friends.
4. Distinctive appearance. Unique features, such as height, weight, glasses or acne, can make a child the target of bullying. Bullies often target physical attributes to get a laugh, and it can be damaging to the victim’s self-esteem.
5. Sexual orientation. The most brutal bullying incidents often target gay or transgender students. Schools must provide a solid support network for LGBTQ students.
Pink Shirt Day is a national anti-bullying campaign widely recognized in schools, and children are taught about the negative impacts of bullying in the hallways and online. However, Pink Shirt Day isn’t just about kids. Seniors are also often victims of bullying.
1. Successful. Kids who get positive attention from their peers, teachers and parents may become the target of bullying from kids who feel inferior. These bullies want others to feel insecure and will try to discredit popular students.
6. Different race or religion. Bullying based on race, religion and cultural practice is common. No race is immune from having bullies or being bullied. Students are singled out just because they’re different. These characteristics aren’t flaws that need to be changed. It’s crucial to remind bullying victims that it’s not their fault.
Sextortion: what you need to know
Sextortion is a form of online blackmail whereby a predator threatens to make sexual images of a youth public. Here’s what you need to know about this growing problem.
HOW SEXTORTION OCCURS
Communication usually starts on social media, and young males are a common target. The teens are tricked into believing they’re communicating with a young female.
The communication leads to sexual content. The youth may share a nude image of themselves or engage in a sexual act via livestream, which is recorded without their knowledge.
The extorter then threatens to share the pictures with the youth’s friends and family if they aren’t paid or provided with more sexual images. The predator
may also threaten to harm the victim or the victim’s family.
Some young people have paid more than $7,000 to these predators. Others, like 17-year-old Michigan high schooler Jordan DeMay, have chosen to end their own lives while being sextorted.
If you’re experiencing sextortion, there are things you can do:
• Stop all communication. Deactivate, but don’t delete, the accounts you’re using to communicate with the extortionists. Never send money or more nude images.
• Keep the message threads and information such as the predator’s username, social media account information and any shared videos or images.
• Ge t help. Tell an adult, visit NeedHelpNow.ca and report the incident to cybertip.ca or your local police.
Cybertip.ca reports a 150 per cent increase in youth being sextorted between December 2021 and May 2022, with a record of more than 100 cases in June 2022.
According to a survey of older adults cited by Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario:
• 57 per cent of respondents reported being bullied
• 56 per cent reported engaging in bullying behaviours
• 44 per cent had witnessed bullying in the last four months
Most bullying among seniors occurs in retirement or assisted living facilities, among small groups. The most common form is verbal abuse. The three main types of bullying in assisted living facilities include:
• Older adult to older adult
• Older adult to staff
• Staff to older adult
Older adults who engage in bullying are often experiencing a loss of control over certain parts of their lives and use bullying to maintain a sense of power.
The negative physical and emotional impacts of bullying are just as severe for the elderly as they are for children. They include:
• Social and emotional distress
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Sleep difficulties
• Self-harming behaviours or physical injury
• Isolation
• Low self-esteem
• Cognitive decline
You can help all Canadians live healthier, happier lives by providing education, support and resources to prevent bullying among older adults.
Listen Monday’s at 1:00 PM
https://chestermereradio.ca
Mondays 1:00 pm - 2:oopm MST
The Rogue is pleased to have Michelle Eldjarnson from Chestermere’s own Re/Max Key to our regularly scheduled programming.
Listen Monday’s at one to hear about things going on around town and to hear Michelle’s eclectic picks of music
Michelle has loved music all her life and was exposed at an early age to every type of music from Jazz to Hillbilly, old fashioned country, with stops in between at classical rock and classical piano, in a variety of languages including English, French and Spanish.
Michelle’s Weekly topics will cover
The people in your neighborhood
Local sports teams
All about our schools
The walking paths
The parks
The ponds
The lake
The wildlife
Walkability
Q: What is an Internet radio station?
A: An Internet radio station is a radio station that broadcasts over the internet, allowing listeners to tune in from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
While we can and do reach the whole world, as our slogan says, our target listening area is “from the bow to the badlands”. In real terms, we have regular listeners in: Calgary, Conrich, Chestermere, Langdon, Indus, Lyalta, Cheadle, Carseland, Mossleigh, Arrowwood, Sisaka Nation, Gleichen, Strathmore, Irricana, Biesiker, Acme, Linden, Rosebud, and Drumheller.
Q: Do I need special equipment to listen to your station?
A: No, you don’t need any special equipment to listen to our station. You can listen to us on any device that can connect to the internet, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, Alexa, Google Home, and desktop computers.
Q: How do I listen to your station?
A: You can listen to our station by visiting our website and clicking on the “Listen Live” button.
• Play Store – Search for and install CFTR the Rogue
• App Store – Search for and Install CFTR Radio
• Alexa – Say “Alexa enable CFTR the Rogue” to enable the skill, then simply say “Alexa play CFTR the Rogue” Every time after that.
• Google Home: Say “Hey Google, Talk to CFTR the Rogue.
Q: Is your station free to listen to?
A: Yes, our station is completely free to listen to. We do not charge any fees or require any subscriptions to listen to our content.
Q: Can I make song requests?
A: Yes, you can make song requests by emailing us or using our website’s contact form. While we cannot guarantee that we will be able to play your request, we always appreciate hearing from our listeners.
Q: Do you have a mobile app?
A: Yes, we have a mobile app that you can download from the App Store or Google Play. Our app makes it easy to listen to our station on the go and provides additional features, such as song requests and push notifications for special events.
Q: Do you offer advertising opportunities on your station?
A: Yes, we offer a range of advertising opportunities on our station, including sponsorships, on-air commercials, and banner ads on our website. Please contact us for more information about advertising on our station.
Q: How can I contact you?
A: You can contact us by emailing us at rogue@anchormedia.ca, using our website’s contact form, or reaching out to us on social media. We’re always happy to hear from our listeners and answer any questions you may have.
Don Cassidy Elaine Cassidy
Each species of duck will have its fans. I enjoy seeing a redhead, canvasback or a pintail. Elaine has a penchant for one of our tinier ducks. Even over the course of the past few winters, she has been out along the banks of the Bow River or looking at open water in Calgary storm ponds, trying to catch in a photograph what makes this duck so attractive. It’s truly in the buff with just the right light that makes this duck shine.
Buffleheads are small, compact ducks, measuring a mere 15.8 inches at adulthood. Buffleheads sport a large, rounded head, augmented with a short, wide bill. An adult male bufflehead sports a white body, black back, and a dark head with a significantly large white patch that wraps around the back of its head. When the dark head catches the sunlight, the feathers have an iridescent sheen consisting of a dark green to purple hue. Females and juvenile males are generally a grey-brown color with a highlighted white oval cheek patch. In flight, both sexes have white patches on the upper wing, with the male sporting a larger patch. During the winter months, Elaine and I head to the Bow River, Carburn Park specifically, to watch and photograph buffleheads. Being underwater divers, this tiny duck pursues aquatic invertebrates for sustenance. As winters transitions to spring, males will swim in front of
the females, bobbing their heads up and down in a quick sequence of movements. Just before a dive, the bufflehead compresses its feathers to remove air, make a quick “leap” as they plunge vigorously into the water. In watching them on the Bow, it’s something to see the buffleheads pop up to the surface, almost like a cork. Our challenge is to catch the bufflehead on the surface in the right light as they dive about every 12 seconds. Elaine and I can’t recall ever seeing a buffledhead on dry land, whereas almost every other species can be seen in fields or along road sides.
Nesting sites are limited by the availability of holes made by northern flickers in trees, these holes being just the right size! The breeding range in Alberta begins where aspen and boreal forests are located, pretty much from Red Deer and into the far north. Once the family is raised, and autumn appears a number of Alberta’s buffleheads head west to the coast, or south to the Gulf Coast. There is even a population of buffleheads that remain in Alberta year-round, making the area from Calgary, south west to the American border , a winter home.
You may wonder about the name of our tiniest diving duck – “Bufflehead”. It was named after the shape of its head – dome-like, and was originally named Buffalo Head. It is indeed a duck in the buff!
Welcome to Rainbow Falls Dental!
Family Dentist Chestermere
Rainbow Falls Dental is excited to introduce their brand new state of the art Dental practice to the town of Chestermere and surrounding area. Our dynamic team will strive to ensure you are comfortable and confident with the complete oral health care you are receiving and will continue to receive.
You’ll always leave a lasting impression with a bright and confident smile. At Rainbow Falls Dental, we want to help you claim and maintain a strong healthy smile to enjoy for your entire life.
Rainbow Falls Dental is a full-service clinic providing everything from routine check-ups & cleanings for your children, to the complex cosmetic and restorative dentistry sometimes needed.
Our team understands that there is often a sense of uneasiness and anxiety associated with dental visits. We strive to put these emotions at ease by creating a positive and relaxing experience. It is very important to establish a great foundation of trust with each and every patient and take the time to accommodate to the specific needs of the individual. Our entire team is dedicate to providing you with a comfortable, pleasant, and friendly experience.
We offer dental services for families and individuals of all ages. We are Unit 214 100 Rainbow Road, Chestermere, AB. We are right beside the No Frills.
Call Rainbow Falls Dental to set up an appointment!
The Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide
Chestermere organizations are conducting a gender equality survey, for the CanWILL Inclusive Community Initiatives grant opportunity.
The City of Chestermere, along with the Chestermere Women’s Crisis Society, Synergy, and Rocky View Immigrant Services have partnered on a grant opportunity, CanWILL Inclusive Community Initiatives, through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).
The grant will support Canadian women in local leadership, the City of Chestermere website said.
The project was first implemented by the FCM and funded by the federal government through Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE).
“The program aims to address the barriers that women face when running for municipal office, while also improving the community once elected to ensure their participation. This includes addressing sexism or racism, which have been known as significant obstacles to women’s participation,” the website said. “The hope is to create a space where everyone is welcomed and motivated to practice leadership in their interests.”
Local organizations are now conducting a survey to promote equality within the community.
Chestermere residents are encouraged to answer the survey questions, allowing the organizations to gather insight into how the community can be improved, and what is going well.
The information collected from the survey will be shared with the community for growth opportunities, to evaluate how programs and services are run, and to inform policies, the website said.
The survey responses are anonymous and will be open until March 6. Anyone who identifies as a woman and is interested in participating in workshops related to empowerment and leadership in the spring and summer, is encouraged to visit the link provided within the survey.
Take the gender equality survey at, https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XDZ6JNT.
Chestermere City Council directed administration to dispose of archived records, pending the approval of the three city directors.
“This is a bit of upkeep that legislative services have to do every now and then, and that is disposed of documents that are out of date and no longer relevant to the operations of the city,” Legislative Administrator Kallen Morrison said during the Feb. 14 council meeting.
Documents are typically kept for seven years.
The disposal batch includes community service, finance, and public works documents.
Community service documents such as programs, clients, and volunteer files, Parent Link Centre files, fundraising planning, grant planning, meeting minutes, and financial reports from 2005 to 2015 will be shredded.
Finance reports from 2003 to 2016 including business licenses, dog licenses, accounts payable documentation, cheque runs, and
cash receipting batches will also be disposed of.
Lastly, public works documentation including pre-and-post-trip vehicle inspections, purchase orders, general administration files, road safety reports and assessments, tenders, and protractor invoices from 2004 to 2016 will be destroyed.
“We have about 262 boxes of redundant or unnecessary filing that’s not only taking up a lot of space but is also a concern,” Morrison said.
Disposing of more than 260 boxes will cost approximately $2,300. Morrison explained that the company that does the city’s normal paper shredding will take on the project as soon as Feb. 17, pending approval from the three city directors.
“They do it on-site, so we can monitor them to make sure any sensitive information isn’t being taken away somewhere,” Morrison said. “We can watch them dispose of it.”
Hello and welcome to a Minute with Michelle, here is the Real Estate Market update for Chestermere, Langdon and Strathmore for February 4th to the 11th, 2023
In Chestermere there are presently 74 Active Listings
1 apartment style behind the salfey way in Chestermere station listed for 234,900
1 new build town home with no condo fees in waterford for 420,000 for duplexes there are 6 5 new builds and 1 resale starting at 444,900 For detached homes are there 66 ranging from 536192 for house under construction in dawson to lakefront for 1.79 million
There are more new builds than re-sale homes for sale in Chestermere at this time.
For pending sales there are 14 from a townhouse in Stonemere Place up to a lakefront on west chestermere drive for 1.9 million
In the last 7 days there were 6 - one new build duplex in dawson for 454000 rest were all detached resales ranging in price from 615000 to 920000
For langdon there are presently 18 active listings all detached homes starting at 550 and going up to 984000 for a lrage walk out bungalow on the golf course
8 of the listings are new builds
For pending sales there are is one a new build in boulder creek
For sales in the last 7 days there were 2 both 2 storey detached homes one of the northwest side and one new build on Hanson Drive.
In Strathmore there are 33 active listings including and apartment starting at 120,000 all the way up to 1.5million for an increditble hillcrest estates bungalow.
Strathmore continues to show its affordability as we move through another sellers market so far this spring.
For pending sales there are 6 from an apartment listed for 159900 to a lovely 2 storey in Edgefield
and for sales in the last 7 days in strathmore there were 2 both detached 2 storeys in the wildrose neighbourhood and that was the Real Estate Market Update for Chestermere, Langdon and Strathmore for February 4th to the 11th, 2023
Listen to Michelle’s daily up[dates on https://cftrtherogue.com
Thank you for joining us for Winter Session 1 Programs. We are currently taking a break on all programs this week.
HEY YOU! YA, YOU!
Do you like yoga? Making Crafts? Do your kids like Lego, Chess or Science Experiments? We have those things and more, at the library. Check out our full program guide on our website. www.chestermerepubliclibrary.com
Winter Programs 2023
Session 2 registration begins on February 21st. Programs begin on February 27th.
School’s Out For… …February Break!
Keep the kiddos busy and entertained at the library. Come on down and play in our kids’ section while picking out some books, movies, or video games to keep the kids busy while on school break.
Novel Book Club
Join us March 16th at 6:00PM in the library to discuss Black Buck by Mateo Askaripour. No registration is required, and copies are available at the library for borrowing.
Graphic Novel and Manga Club
This month our teen and adult Graphic Novel and Manga Club are discussing books about friendship on our Discord. Any friend duo or group in comics are welcome to be discussed this month. Join our discord on our website.
Share Your Library Experience
Have you taken part in any of our library services? We are looking for feedback on the library and our programs. Let us know what you think and how we can improve. Your feedback directly impacts our services and programming so we can continue to make the library better for everyone. Email your feedback to info@ chestermerepubliclibrary.com or drop it off in our feedback box.
Support Your Local Library
Are you aware that the library is a Registered CHARITY? This means that we depend on donations from the public to support us. We are looking for corporate or personal sponsors for our Winter Program Session! Any donations help and allow us to improve all our programming. Contact info@ chestermerepubliclibrary.com if you would like to donate.
Monthly Newsletter
Are you wondering what’s happening at the library? Would you like to know? Sign up for our monthly newsletter for updates on programming, Reading Programs, Featured Displays, Community Outreach, Featured Artists, and more. Sign up by visiting our website at chestermerepubliclibrary.com
Library Hours:
Monday through Thursday – 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Friday and Saturday – 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Sunday – 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
For more information about what is happening at the Library, check our website. Don’t forget to follow and like us on our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.
The suspect was taken to a Calgary hospital by STARS with gunshot injuries.
By Emily RogersThe Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) is investigating an officer-involved shooting in Wheatland County on Sunday.
On Feb. 12, at approximately 2:15 p.m., the Airdrie Rural RCMP received a call from Calgary Police Service (CPS) to assist in locating a vehicle that was driving erratically, an Alberta RCMP media release said.
An RCMP officer located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop before the vehicle fled.
A CPS helicopter followed the vehicle and advised RCMP members on the ground, that it was travelling at a high speed, and sometimes in the oncoming lanes.
RCMP deployed a tire deflation device, stopping the vehicle near the Highway 564 and Range Road 245 intersection in Wheatland County. An officer attempted to arrest the driver, however, an altercation occurred resulting in the officer discharging their firearm, the release said. The driver, a 37-year-old resident of Calgary was taken to a Calgary hospital by STARS with gunshot injuries.
Officers were not physically injured during this incident. ASIRT has taken over the investigation.
“The Alberta RCMP believes in processes that seek the facts and it’s important that processes taken to assess the actions of all those involved, including the police, are fair, transparent, and defendable,” the release said.
When RCMP became aware of the incident, the Director of Law Enforcement was notified, and RCMP began an internal review process.
The RCMP’s internal review process is independent of the ASIRT investigation and will gather a full account of what took place during the incident, and the circumstances.
RCMP training, policy, police response, and the duty status of the members involved will be subject to review, the release said.
As the Alberta RCMP is cooperating with ASIRT, no further comments on the incident from the RCMP are expected.
The provincial government announced the top baby names from last year, with Olivia and Noah at the top of the list. Olivia has held the top spot since 2013, while Noah has been the most popular boy name for four years.
“Congratulations to everyone who brought a child into this world in 2022. Alberta is a great place to live, and I see a positive future for all parents choosing to raise a family here. To those expecting a baby in 2023, or to those who are just plain curious, I encourage you to check out the baby names lists from years past,” Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally said.
Sophia, Emma, Amelia and Harper rounded out the top five for girls’ names, with Liam, Theodore, Oliver and Jack in the top five boys’
names in the province.
In 2022, there were 48,225 registered births, and 12,966 different names registered, a government of Alberta press release said. Names last year reflected places, such as Brooklyn, and Georgia, animals like bear or fox, mythology such as Phoenix, flowers including Juniper, Daisy, Violet, Lily, Willow, Hazel, and Ivy, all four seasons, and musicians such as Prince and Presley.
The girls’ names holding the number one spot for the longest period of time include Olivia for 10 years, Jessica for six years, and Emily for five years.
Ethan was the most popular boy’s name for nine years, Liam for seven years, and Matthew for five years.
This may come as a surprise to some Canadians, but our country doesn’t really have a real discount grocery chain. With higher food prices and a growing number of consumers seeking refuge from record-setting food inflation at the grocery store, real discount grocery stores would really come in handy. But the option is simply not there.
Rebates have grown scarce in recent years as No Frills and other value grocers such as Empire’s FreshCo and Metro’s Food Basics took a noticeable step back from their ongoing fight with Walmart. Quebec is in even worse shape: shoppers can find Metro’s Super C or Maxi, owned and operated by Loblaw. Sobeys doesn’t even operate a discount chain in Quebec. All banners and stores are connected to just a handful of grocers controlling the Canadian market.
Now Walmart is doing its own thing with price locks, and Loblaw just ended its 14-week price freeze, which failed to show beyond a reasonable doubt that consumers were indeed saving money. While consumers likely saved some money in January, after a few months of double-digit food inflation, it was not clear to many.
Rebates are just not as overly aggressive as what you would see in European-based discount stores. Every now and then, some impending threat will shake our industry’s giants, and they try to fight for market share. But as soon as the danger passes, some sort of truce overwhelms the market. This is what happened when Target came and quickly went in 2015, and with Amazon Fresh a few years ago when rumours were swirling that they would attempt to enter the Canadian market.
For years, reports have suggested that both Lidl and Aldi would enter the Canadian market. We’re still waiting. But Lidl, a German international discount retailer chain, opened its first store in the United States in 2017 and now operates almost 200 stores. Aldi, another German company, now has over 2,300 stores in the United States. Both have similar business models, centring all of their efforts on discounts, plain and simple. With both, what you see is what you get, although Aldi does own Trader Joe’s in the U.S.
Unlike traditional grocery stores, both Lidl and Aldi operate on a restricted selection strategy,
offering only a curated selection of privatelabel products and a smaller range of national brands. Lidl may have more branded products, depending on location. This leads to lower overhead costs and allows stores to sell products at lower prices when compared to competitors. Moreover, these discount grocers implement cost-saving measures such as a bring-yourown-bag policy, an incredibly minimalistic store design, and an efficient checkout process. In fact, in Europe, where Aldi and Lidl originate, clerks typically sit down while working at these discount grocery stores as most of the bagging work is done by customers themselves.
Lidl and Aldi’s strategies benefit the consumer with lower prices and contribute to a more sustainable and efficient retail environment. Some no-frills stores, such as No Frills, do some of that but not nearly at the same level. Lidl and Aldi are also known for their emphasis on quality: their products must meet strict quality standards while still being affordable.
In recent years, non-traditional grocers like Costco, Dollarama, Giant Tiger and Walmart have
slowly shifted and tried to fill the discounting void we have in Canada. Costco stands out. Only 15 years ago, Costco was a mediocre food retailer, at best. Today, it processes many of its fresh products onsite, while the quality and freshness rarely disappoint. Deals are impressive, but shoppers need both a car and the space at home.
The bottom line is this. Canada needs a disruptor, a new player that will redefine competition in the grocery industry. Loblaw just converted more than a dozen stores into discount Maxi stores in Quebec simply because the company sees the writing on the proverbial wall. Grocers, coupled with the complacency of our regulators, have gotten comfortable Perhaps too comfortable.
One can only hope that either Aldi, Lidl or another non-Canadian discount grocer reads this column. Canadians are calling you.
Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agri-food analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University. © Troy Media
This week on Unpacked we are chatting with guest Rebecca Hagedorn, Owner and Entrepreneur of Everline + Co. We chat with Rebecca about her personal health journey with ADHD, Postpartum Depression, Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Rebecca shared the story of trusting her gut and following her instincts that helped her to continue to advocate for answers and unlock the missing pieces in her own physical and mental health journey. Rebecca is a talented jewelry designer and honest mama who creates pieces to remind other women of their worth. Rebecca shares her life story of becoming a mom, entrepreneur and mental health advocate. She takes us through some of her life lessons and how she has chosen to share on social media her personal health journey in hopes of helping people trust their gut and not give up.
Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!
Links: https://unpackedpod.buzzsprout.com/
Romanticism is often regarded as the gateway into the classical-style music that is produced by modern composers today. The prominence of popular art and literature during this time period greatly affected the way in which music was created, performed, and observed in society. As a result of this distinct influence, composers began to take a riskful approach to the art they created, and the genuine, authentic emotions of creators were portrayed through their pieces.
After the rather boring, simplistic musical characteristics of the Classical Era, people began to crave a fresh, revitalized take on music. Thus, composers began to search for ways to make their pieces unique and rather than adhering to the requests of aristocracy and wealthy organizations who paid to have music written. Composers began to reflect their own inner emotions through their music.
Well-known composers such as Brahms and Tchaikovsky reached the height of their powers during this Romantic period, resulting in the emergence of brilliant musical creations that would set their personalized, emotional pieces a par above those of previous musical eras. The rise of nationalism and individualism ignited the beginning of the Industrial Revolution which resulted in a profound evolution within the music industry.
The simplicity and directness valued throughout the Classical Era failed to entertain a new generation of musicians who seeked a more interesting adaptation to the music of their century. The embellished, flamboyant characteristics of the Baroque Era made a distinct return in the midst of the Romantic Era, and diluted the abundance of oversimplified rhythms, tone, colour, and dynamics that were more prominent during the Classical Era. Opera, also a very popular concept during the height of the Baroque Era, made a comeback in musical performances. Among the most known opera composers were Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, and Richard Wagner, who introduced the concept of instrumental music present in the background of opera performances.
This revival of passionate, expressional music provided a refreshing middle ground between the extravagant styles valued in the Baroque Era and the oversimplified elements commonly exhibited in pieces from the Classical Era.
Through the newfound excitement of the Romantic Era, a greater interest was sparked among the population to pursue music as a hobby, as a passion to be enjoyed. Industrialization was in full swing throughout the entire world during the mid 17th century, and inspired some of the changes that were observed in the music industry. The Industrial Revolution was the central contributor to substantial economic growth within the Western World, thus, the middle class grew accordingly and more individuals had the funds to supply themselves with necessary materials to embrace
musical education.
Through both people choosing to be self taught and the introduction of music in schools was a catalyst to the widespread knowledge of music that emerged during this time of profound industrial and economic shifts.
In addition, music became a societal norm among the population as individuals began to embrace self-expression through the creation of their own music and the practicing of music composed by others. This was the main factor in the Romantic Era that provided the pivotal point in musical history where not only the style of music transitioned to modern expressionism, but also the societal and economic state of the contemporary music industry. As wealth and the concept of prosperity was becoming increasingly more valued in terms of self-interest, individuals became more driven to produce, sell, and release music which flourished the economy in ways never seen before.
Of course, there are obvious and very serious consequences of the Industrial Revolution such as extreme neglect to the natural environment as well as the harm and maltreatment of workers during this time. This was however one of the most crucial periods for musical production.
Thank you for joining me again this week for the second-to-last articles describing the progression and evolution of the musical world. Next week, I will be focusing on how the history of music in Western society transitioned to the Modern Era.
Every week, I will be including my email here, at the bottom of my articles in case you have any suggestions, feedback, or writing opportunities. If so, please do not hesitate to contact me at hana.chestermere@gmail.com .
I am also still considering what theme I should write about in March and the coming months. If you have any ideas or suggestions, please contact me as I would love to explore some new arts and culture topics.
1. Keep it Classical, Intro to the Romantic Period of Classical Music (video), October 21 2021, link.
2. Classical FM, Romantic Era, link.
3. Elliott Jones, Santa Ana College, Slide Show: Romantic Era, link.
4. Wikipedia, Opera, January 11th 2023, link.
Why would we step into our neighbourhoods to connect and care?
Why would we expend precious time and energy to work for the wellbeing of anyone along our street? I came across an anecdotal story that captures the heart of stepping into our neighbourhoods, and it’s a story about a corn farmer who works to help all the corn farmers around him thrive.
There was a farmer who grew excellent quality corn. Every year he won the award for the best grown corn. One year a newspaper reporter interviewed him and learned something interesting about how he grew it. The reporter discovered that the farmer shared his seed corn with his neighbours. “How can you afford to share your best seed corn with your neighbours when they are entering corn in competition with yours each year?” the reporter asked.
“Why sir,” said the farmer, “Didn’t you know? The wind picks up pollen from the ripening corn and swirls it from field to field. If my neighbours grow inferior corn, cross-pollination will steadily degrade the quality of my corn. If I am to grow good corn, I must help my neighbours grow good corn.”
I love this story because I believe it reflects our journey into the neighbourhood. We want to live healthy, meaningful, and hopeful livesthat’s the dream for most of us in Chestermere. This dream begins well because it is born with good intentions, but may fade as we discover that living only for ourselves does not turn into the kind of gracious and compassionate life we hoped for. To live in community means that we find ways to live together, often in service and care for each other.
The corn farmer found that the more his neighbours were succeeding, the better
it was for him. Could it be that loving our neighbourhoods into the kind of places that exudes peace, love, and joy, results in the best outcomes for us, too? If we want to be happy, could we consider that knowing our neighbours might be the best way to get there? It has certainly become a grand experiment for us. We’re learning how to love and know others, and it has created around us a place of life, connection, and hope for the future - and I’m not even a corn farmer, yet.
Our wellbeing is deeply connected to the
wellbeing of those around us. While we may not see the immediate personal benefit, a safe, thriving, interconnected community is certainly a life-giving place for all. What could you try in this season to help your neighbours thrive? What do you have that could be helpful or encouraging to them? Even if you do not see the direct benefit to you now, how could you imagine the ways that their successes could mean a small but substantial difference for our city? As we grow to imagine our neighbours doing well, we begin to see a new way to live together, for the better.
Awhat?” I hear you say. That’s a question my friend, Susan, is asked regularly, so I’ll let her explain.
Sighthounds (and scent hounds) are hunters. Fast movements can trigger a chase reaction which unless you are ahead of the game could result in no recall, or if the dog is on leash, a dislocated shoulder. Hounds will keep you young and your reflexes honed. You will learn to spot a deer, squirrel, racoon and other small furry critters faster than your average doodle owner. One of our hounds is a silent stealth hunter, making it to the bottom of the garden before you can say ‘There’s a rabbit.’ The other will give chase but her “Look! Look! Look!” barking will mean she will likely lose a meal in the wild but is more-orless guaranteed to gain a meal indoors even if she is half an hour ahead of supper time. Do they need a lot of exercise?
What kind of dog is that? Is that a Saluki? Afghan? Borzoi? Long Haired Whippet? He is a Silken Windhound. A what? A Silken Windhound. A what?
A Windhound. Oh, is that because they run like the wind? Yes indeed. ….
No. These dogs are sprinters (“tailor made for neurotics” as Sam said in Chariots of Fire1981 20th Century Fox). Both our dogs will watch with polite interest if we throw a ball or Frisbee and then continue with their more important agenda. They love scent work and are very good at it. Other Silkens we know are keen on agility, tracking or barn hunt. One of my Silkens was a therapy dog, offering de-stressing stroking at Victoria University and helping children read in school.
Silken Windhounds are still considered a rare breed, so if you don’t enjoy interactions with curious strangers they may not be the dog for you, unless you like the slightly unusual and are willing to answer questions along the lines of :“Where do they originate?” ‘Texas.’ “No, I mean where does the breed come from?” ‘Texas.’ Then you may like to know Silkens have been around for 40 years although only recognised so far by the Slovenian Kennel Club, they are known in 25 countries. They were recognised by the United Kennel Club (an international dog registry in 2011.) Bred originally by Borzoi and Deerhound breeder Francie Stull, with her Borzoi and a Whippet lurcher the Silken has bred true for many generations.
“We decided we could not bear the heartbreak of losing another beloved Irish Wolfhound before the age of ten”, said Susan, “and determined to downsize. We love dogs and hounds for us, are special and different.” I wanted to learn more about these beautiful dogs and Susan was the one to fill me in.
“Most differences are a pleasure and they outweigh any problems.While usually more independent and less cuddly than a golden retriever, they are affectionately loyal to their family.
Physically the Silken is slender with a streamlined shape, proportionately long legs and a long narrow face. They are between 18 and 24” tall, with a medium-long easy groom coat of any colour.
They love to run very fast for short bursts. then will spend the rest of the day like this! Are they good with children?
Every dog is an individual regardless of breed, use caution and care. Our two Silkens have both been very tolerant of children.
Originally there was a Sheltie in the Whippet lurcher…evidenced by the MDR1 mutation which sometimes crops up. This could make the hound more sensitive to certain drugs and you should check whether this is present in your hound. Other differences in health between hounds and dogs relate to their design for speed. Lean, long legged, with flexible backs and deep chests, some may be prone to bloat. Hounds have more red blood cells and their blood serum profiles are outside the norm- meaning they metabolise drugs differently; the liver deals with drugs more slowly. Barbiturates are unsafe. Hounds are more sensitive to some flea treatments and anaesthetics, so be sure your vet is on board with safe meds for your hound. All things being equal the Silken Windhound should live into the teens. Some have made it to 20 years old.
Regular readers may recall me waxing poetic about Happy Belly Kombucha, a Chestermere-owned business that was one of the first entrants into the Kombucha market in Alberta, producing a healthy and natural ever so slightly fermented beverage.
The history of Kombucha goes back more than two thousand years, where it was consumed in China in the days of the Tsin dynasty, and was much prized for its detoxifying and energizing properties.
Eventually, Kombucha spread along the trade routes throughout Asia and Europe, reaching pretty much the entire world by the 1950s.
Kombucha is produced by fermenting a sugared tea with a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), resulting in a probiotic beverage with various purported benefits to gut flora. The flavour profile starts with an effervescent freshness on the nose, with a tart and delicate acidity on the palate, followed by a burst of whatever fruits and spices are blended with the tea base.
Superfoods with energizing properties like ginger, turmeric, and mint are popular ingredients in Kombucha, owing to its historical usage as a detoxifying agent for the digestive system. Citrus or tropical fruit juices are typically added, which masks the slightly acetic flavour from the probiotic bacteria, resulting in a slightly fizzy beverage with a mildly tart and refreshing flavour.
As a fermented beverage, Kombucha is most frequently made by adding cane sugar to a base of black or green tea, followed by the
Nick Jeffreyintroduction of the SCOBY to start fermenting the sugar. Juices, herbs, and spices are adding during the fermentation process, and aged for up to two weeks at room temperature. Trace amounts of caffeine from the tea leaves remain in the finished product, but typically less than half as much caffeine as an equivalent serving of tea.
While Kombucha is a fermented beverage, it normally contains less than 0.5% ABV, allowing it to be sold as a non-alcoholic beverage. No need to worry about driving under the influence of Kombucha, as trace amounts of alcohol will be found in pretty much any fruit juice containing natural sugars, including that freshly squeezed orange juice in your fridge that will naturally ferment up to around 0.5% ABV as well.
Kombucha is particularly popular with the yogaloving crowd, which might be why I see a steady stream of sweaty patrons from the neighbouring CrossFit studio popping into the taproom at Chestermere’s own Township 24 Brewing for a midday post-workout Kombucha.
I like to mix my Kombucha half-and-half with the Township 24 Blonde Ale, a trick I learned from the post-workout crowd, and it seems that boozy Kombucha is starting to catch on. While adventurous boozers have been using Kombucha as a cocktail mixer for quite some time, we are starting to see premixed cans of boozy Kombucha on the shelves of local booze merchants.
New to the Alberta market is the excellently named Kombrewcha, available in berry, ginger, and lime options, and weighs in at 4.4% ABV,
making it about the same strength as a beer. Kombrewcha comes from Brooklyn, and is funded by Anheuser-Busch, so will be able to take advantage of the existing worldwide distribution channels already in place.
Regular readers will recognize that I prefer to drink locally produced tipples, so getting my Kombucha from the same megabrewer that produces Bud Lite will be a nonstarter for me, despite their market dominance.
Fortunately, we have a craftier option made closer to home, thanks to a collaboration between Chestermere-owned Happy Belly Kombucha and the artisanal Burwood Distillery in Calgary.
The collaboration is known as the Fruit N’ Funk Kombucha Cocktail, made by blending Happy Belly Pineapple Hops Kombucha with the crafty gin from the Burwood Distillery, packaged up in cans that weigh in at 4% ABV.
Should Pineapple not be your thing, Ginger Donkey is the mash-up of Happy Belly Purple Ginger Kombucha with the artisanal vodka from Burwood Distillery. This one is my personal favourite, as I have been using the Purple Ginger Kombucha as a cocktail mixer at home for a few years now, so was delighted to see it available in ready-to-drink packaging.
If you happen to use spud.ca for grocery delivery, they will even deliver Happy Belly Kombucha directly to your door, in both the nonalcoholic and boozy varieties.
Take your boozing to the next level by mixing up a Kombucha cocktail, or look for a premixed option in the can at your local bottle shop.
Rural Primary Care Network’s continued support and resources help make this book possible. A special thanks to Quinn Wright.
The Lakeshore Manor has become the home of the OACC, and we appreciate the resources that they have made available to us during this project.
For the tireless compiling and editing, we thank the volunteers of the OACC – residents, businesses and organizations that form the membership.
Handbook content is ever-changing, and updates or suggestions for future editions are welcome by the OACC. We hope that you will provide updates and additions that will make our next edition even better!
Anchor Article - Jan 31, 2023, Edition
Older Adults’ Coalition of Chestermere (OACC)
As things get back to normal after the holiday season, the OACC will be adding guest speakers to upcoming meetings. Be sure to keep an eye out for our meeting invites. We are also doing a segment with the Chestermere Radio Station – CFTR The Rogue. Please take the time to listen in at https://cftrtherogue.com/. It is local content, and we appreciate the opportunity that Steve Jeffrey has afforded us to get our message out there. Thanks to Steve for his continued support of local not-for-profit organizations.
OACC News & Events
Well, we did a thing! The Older Adults’ Coalition of Chestermere (OACC) is pleased to announce the release of the 2023 Chestermere Older Adults’ Resource Handbook. This booklet is now available at businesses, organizations, and various locations throughout the City. A digital copy will be available on the City of Chestermere website as well.
https://www.chestermere.ca/DocumentCenter/View/20176/ Chestermere-Older-Adults-Resource-Handbook-2023
We extend our thanks to many people that participated in the making of the 2023 edition of this resource for Older Adults in Chestermere.
For the funding of this handbook, we thank the City of Chestermere, Community Grant Fund Program. The generosity of the Community Grant Fund has ensured that this valuable resource will continue to meet the needs of the older adults in Chestermere.
In-kind funding also deserves recognition and our thanks. The Calgary
On January 17, 2023 the Alberta government announced the Affordability Payment program that, beginning January 18, 2023, “… eligible seniors and parents can apply for $600 in affordability payments over six months to help offset inflationary pressures. Eligible households can apply for affordability payments for each child under 18 and each senior 65 and up which will help to keep Alberta affordable.” The website announcement also states that:
“The secure online application portal will launch on January 18 at 9 a.m. Families with household incomes below $180,000 are eligible to receive $100 per month for six months for each dependent child under 18. Seniors 65 or older who have household incomes below $180,000 and do not receive the Alberta Seniors Benefit can also apply for monthly payments.
Anyone who cannot easily go online can apply in person through any registry agent or Alberta Supports to receive support in 50 locations and over 100 languages during regular business hours.
Applications will be accepted any time between January 18 and June 30, 2023. Once the application process is completed, most Albertans will receive payments at the end of that month. The exact timing will vary.”
With the rising inflation impacts on families, this is a welcome announcement for our older adult community. The release went on to say that some payments will be received automatically. Here is the link for full details: https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=863948C59A4EFCC45-3DFE-F942A72ABCBB7E40
Rocky View Adult Learning has just released dates of their English Language Learning (ELL) classes in Chestermere. They will run from February 27, 2023 – May 15, 2023 on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:30pm – 9:00pm. Please go to adultlearning.rockyview.ab.ca to register. There is a cost for this course.
Mark your calendars – 2023 Spring Energizer Night is on March 29, 2023
from 6:30pm – 8:30pm at the Chestermere Rec Centre, MPP Room (organized by Macaroni Kids). OACC will be there so please stop by and see us!
News & Views on Health
Happy Heart Month from your local CRPCN! The new Chestermere Family Medical Center is open in Kinniburgh and accepting new Patients. This is a CRPCN Clinic, meaning they have access and support to our CRPCN Team of Professionals, Dietician, Diabetic Nurse, Footcare Specialist, Registered Nurse, and Behavior Specialist. This Clinic is the only Walkin Clinic for the general public (you don’t have to be their patient) in Chestermere, and they are open on Saturdays.
The launch of Conversation Café was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances and is rescheduled to Monday, February 27, 2023. This event is intended to support caregivers and family members of those working with Dementia or memory loss. Many thanks to Don Montpetit for bringing this well needed support to our city. Regardless of where you or your family member is in the dementia journey, it is a casual conversation setting offering peer support. Family members and dementia patients are welcome to join in. Thanks to Don’s initiative and the support of Calgary Rural Primary Care Network (CRPCN), Older Adults’ Coalition of Chestermere (OACC), Lakeshore Manor and the Chestermere Whitecappers Association, the first Chestermere Chapter – Conversation Café is set to take place on, Monday, February 27, 2023, from 2:00pm – 4:00pm at Lakeshore Manor (200 Marina Drive, Chestermere). Future meetings will be held on the 4th Monday of every month. You can contact Don at 403-
473-1564 or check out the link for more information: https:// dementianetworkcalgary.ca/event/ new-chestermere-conversationcafe-in-person/
CRPCN continues to offer online courses that are available to anyone – free of charge. Check out www. CRPCN.ca to see what courses are available and to register. Topics include: Anxiety to Calm, Craving Change and Happiness Basics.
Join the Older Adults’ Coalition of Chestermere
Are you an older adult? Do you live or work in Chestermere or the immediate surrounding area? Do you want to engage and/or volunteer in the community with similar residents? Do you have family that fits this demographic that you care for or have living in Chestermere? Did you know that as a business or organization that has an interest in providing services or programs for our older adults you are more than welcome to be a member of OACC? We welcome adult children of older adults, caregivers, educators, agencies, service organizations, funders, community partners and the community at large. The common goal is to work for the betterment of older adults in our community.
Please join us at our next monthly meeting! We meet the 3rd Wednesday of the month.
OACC – Next Meeting –Wednesday, February 15, 1:30PM – 3:30PM Lakeshore Manor (200 Marina Drive, Chestermere). While walk-ins are welcome to our meetings, kindly RSVP. Please email Joanne jumpmaster2@ shaw.ca or Betty illingw8@telus. net or Shannon shannon.fetterly@ lakeshoremanor.ca.
The OACC welcomes community businesses, organizations, and service providers to join our meetings as a guest speaker. If you are interested, please reach out to Joanne, Betty, or Shannon.
The Chestermere Older Adults’ Resource Handbooks (2023) are available at the Older Adults’ Coalition of Chestermere meetings. They are also available at the Chestermere Library, Whitecappers Association, Lakeshore Manor, and Synergy. Please pick yours up or take one for a neighbour. You can also access these books by contacting the City of Chestermere at 403207- 7079 or online at https://www.chestermere.ca/DocumentCenter/ View/20176/Chestermere-Older-Adults-Resource-Handbook-2023
Lakeshore Manor also provides a wide variety of resources and information for Older Adults within our community. They can be contacted at 587-349-7444 or online at https://lakeshoremanor.ca
Chestermere Community Services
The City of Chestermere website also has some great resources for older adults and seniors programming, events, and information! https://www. chestermere.ca/658/Programs-for-Seniors
Community Support Services ........................ 403-207-7079 Text option. 403-826-2611
CSS offers programs and services to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and communities in Chestermere. They provide free and confidential services related to social support, information, and referrals to local resources. Email: crcinfo@chestermere.ca
100 Women Who Care (or 100 Men/People/Kids
100 Women Who Care
Who Care) groups are making a difference in their communities around the world by strengthening and growing the giving circle movement.
100 Women Who Care Chestermere launched in mid-October 2021, and the first giving circle meeting was held on February 3, 2022. At that meeting, $3,100 was donated to the Community Therapy Dogs Society.
100 Women Who Care Chestermere is a group of local women who care about the Chestermere community and want to make a big impact within the community, but don’t necessarily have the time to commit to helping make that impact. Members commit to four one-hour meetings a year and donate $100 to a local charity or not for profit organization voted on by the members at each meeting. The next meeting is Thursday, November 3, 2022. If you would like to join and help make a huge impact in the community, please visit our website chestermere100.ca.
Older Adults
Coalition of Chestermere Meeting
When: TBA
Time: Wednesday, February 15, 1:30pm – 3:30pm
Where: Lakeshore Manor, 200 Marina Drive, Chestermere RSVP: jumpmaster2@shaw.ca or illingw8@telus.net
Walk-ins welcome, RSVP appreciated
Chestermere Christian Fellowship Services: Sunday 10:00 am
Pastor Vince VanderVeen 403-204-2079
1.6 km north of Hwy 1 on Conrich Road
Chestermere Lions Club
Meets on the 4th Wednesday of each month at 7:00pm Meetings are currently by zoom. Checkout our facebook page for more information,
The Chestermere Fine Art Guild
The Chestermere Fine Art Guild meets every Thursday at 1pm, at the Recreation Centre North side, upstairs in room 2. Come and explore your artistic potential. Welcoming new members beginner to advanced. Like us on Facebook and email chestermereartguild@gmail.com
Lakeside Quilters’ Guild Meeting each month at the Chestermere Recreation Centre on the first Wednesday of each month. Sew days are on the third Wednesday of each month and a sew Saturday each month, including summer. Quilting experience not required, new members welcome. For more information please contact Joyce at 403-383-1940.
St. Gabriel's the Archangel Parish
Catholics in Chestermere: Weekend masses are now open for public celebration without seating restrictions at St. Gabriel’s Catholic School (197 Invermere Dr.). There is no longer advanced registration required to attend mass (Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 9 am, and 10:30 am), but please stay home if you feel sick that day. For more information please call 403-455-0196
Camp Chestermere Camp
Chestermere is OPEN for Day Care, Rentals, and Community Events! We’ve even opened up registration for Summer 2021 Day and Overnight Camps! We are constantly reviewing and updating our policies to fall in line with current COVID protocols. Contact us today to find out how we can serve you and your needs.
The Rotary Club Of Chestermere
Holds virtual meetings via Zoom on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the Month at 5:00pm and hosts in-person “Socials” at local venues on the last Wednesday of the month.
Guests are warmly welcomed to “Zoom in” to our virtual meeting or join us for some social time when they can!
Please email us for more information at: rotarychestermere@gmail.com
Check out our website at: www.rotarychestermere.org
Kari Zalik Publicist, Bad Parade kari@badparade.com
Canadian artist AV (Ann Vriend) is an internationally recognized Soul singer-songwriter, musician, and producer, whose effortless blend of Soul, Roots, and Blues has landed her numerous awards and taken her across the globe on sold-out tours. Her latest album, “Everybody Matters”, inspired by the sounds of the legendary record label Stax Records and inspired by many of the social issues plaguing inner city Canadian neighbourhoods has sold thousands of units worldwide to date, ranked #28 on Alberta’s CKUA Radio Network’s Top 100 Albums of 2022, and reached #20 on the Earshot National Chart. The track is currently in rotation on Germany’s leading commercial radio station, SWR3.
AV has just released a brand new video for “If You Were Here” from “Everybody Matters” - a soulful and haunting ballad that features AV’s powerful, longing vocals alongside the rich and rough-edged voice and bass playing of B.B. King collaborator, Calgary artist Jory Kinjo.
About “If You Were Here”:
“If You Were Here”, is a lonely, haunting, Blues duet based on a wordless chorus sung in harmony about longing, wandering, and what keeps people in relationships. Originally released in 2012, the song was co-written with Canadian singer-songwriter Matt Epp while at a Folk Alliance conference in Memphis. The tune was initially penned in dedication to Jeff Buckley, who drowned in the arm of the Mississippi River AV and Epp could view from the conference hotel. The stand out, somber harmonies for the track were crafted in the hotel stairwell, where the natural reverb and constant stream of musicians chiming in as they went past was the initial musical inspiration for the song’s vocal hook; a long stream of people wandering in hope of finding something more.
From AV: “My first tour since the pandemic was in Western Europe, and many audience members told me it was their first outing and concert in more than 2 years. You could see the toll that being apart from other people had taken, but also a new-found appreciation and joy of being together socially again. Many refugees were in the audience, being billeted with families who’d taken them in due to the war in the Ukraine. Many of the refugees were teenagers and young adults, away from their parents and families, and though they were grateful for the hospitality, the stress of the war and being apart from people they loved was very evident. People really seemed to connect then to this haunting duet
about being apart.
Biography:
Canadian artist AV (Ann Vriend) is known most for her virtuosic, soaringly powerful vocals, and not far behind that for her multi award-winning abilities as a songwriter -- and she ain’t too bad at the piano, either. She has been delivering her undeniably unique brand of old-school, inner-city soul to audiences around Europe, Oceana, Asia, and North America throughout her under-theradar but consistently award-winning, critically acclaimed career.
Growing up in a household that encouraged critical thinking and challenged the status quo, AV has always written songs about confusion, searching, and questioning -- of herself, and the culture around her. The outcome is what she half seriously, half jokingly calls “existentialist gospel” : drawing musically from the emotionally intense and rhythmic gospel and soul styles of African
American culture, as well as from her parents’ vinyl ‘70s folk/pop collection.
It is with a huge, respectful nod to her influences that AV addresses the social issues that face her and her community of her somewhat notorious inner-city Edmonton neighborhood of McCauley; in which there is a high concentration of people suffering from extreme forms of trauma and abuse; often resulting in addiction, mental illness, stigmatization, neglect, and further abuse. AV’s own self-examination in response to this is the subject matter of her newest album and its title track, “Everybody Matters.”
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We are hiring! Temporary Full-Time Summer Reading Program Coordinator
Term: June 5 to August 18 (Summer 2023)
37.5 hours/wk @ 19.00 per hour
Position Description: The Summer Reading Program Coordinator facilitates efficient, innovative, and effective library service in a rapidly shifting environment, managing the multiple priorities for the creation, implementation, promotion, and evaluation of the library’s summer reading program.
Mandatory Qualifications:
• Preference given to those in the academic fields of education, library science, and community development
• Some experience working with children, especially an ability to create curriculum and activities for younger age children
• Some experience in customer service
• Competence and confidence with computer technology
• Loves reading and learning
• Creative, enjoying crafting, art, or performing arts
• Organized and positive, possessing a ‘can-do’ attitude
• Multilingual ability will be considered an asset
• Experience with marginalized communities and/or work that supports diversity, equity and inclusion will be considered an asset
This position is partially funded through the Young Canada Works program which additionally requires the following:
• Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, or have refugee status in Canada
o Note: Non-Canadian students or graduates holding temporary work visas or awaiting permanent status are not eligible
• Be legally entitled to work in Canada
• Be between 16 and 30 years of age at the start of employment
• Must have completed Grade 12 and be enrolled in post secondary studies in the fall
• Intend to return to studies during or after the YCW work assignment
• Be willing to commit to the full duration of the work assignment
• Not have another full-time job during the YCW work assignment
Please submit a resume and cover letter to:
Miranda Johnson, Director
Chestermere Public Library
miranda.johnson@chestermerepubliclibrary.com
Closing Date: March 1, 2023
The Chestermere Public Library is an inclusive work environment driven by a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy and Action Plan. Additionally, please let us know if you require any accommodations during the application and interview process.
Only those candidates chosen for an interview will be contacted. Thank you for your time and effort in submitting a resume and cover letter. Please check our website for ongoing position opportunities with Chestermere Public Library.
