Red Deer Express, January 20, 2016

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continue to wait for provincial input on new downtown courthouse – PG 7

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RED DEER EXPRESS 3

Lending Cupboard continues to broaden scope of services Community demand for borrowing medical equipment is rising

BY MARK WEBER RED DEER EXPRESS

T

he Lending Cupboard, the Red Deerbased society that lends out medical equipment at no cost across Central Alberta, continues to meet a growing need across the region.

The organization is a registered notfor-profit society and was founded by Jaqui Joys in the summer of 2006. It operates through some support from Alberta Health Services, with the bulk of support stemming from grants, fundraising and private donations.

There are about 7,500 pieces of equipment on hand, and staff process an average of 650 loans every month for situations ranging from extreme sports injuries, those recovering from illness or surgery to end of life care. There is equipment for children, youth, adults and seniors.

“I think of a child with cerebral palsy who was going to have to wait an extended period of time for a specialized walker,” explains Executive Director Dawna Morey. “We were able to fit that child with a walker. He took his first steps - his mom was in tears.”

Equipment available runs the gamut from wheelchairs, walkers, bath chairs and commodes to hospital beds, crutches and canes, hydraulic lifts and bed rails.

Morey has been at the helm of the busy organization, which is located at 5406 43rd St., since last July.

She has overseen some changes at the Cupboard which have helped it to keep pace with its significant growth. “If we do a comparison, they assisted 486 people in the first year. Since July of last year till now, (the first six months of their fiscal year) we’ve seen 1,855 clients,” she said.

“We do get referrals from across the spectrum including doctors’ offices and hospitals throughout the region. That includes Lacombe, Innisfail and Sylvan Lake,” she added. “So it’s much more than word of mouth.”

During a typical five-hour day, about 45 calls are made and taken in by the receptionist.

“And those calls aren’t just about, ‘What are the hours of your operation?’ They are calling about equipment. And beyond that, if we don’t have that type of equipment, we have to be informed on where to refer that caller. We want the clients to know we’ve got their interests at heart as we will help.”

Looking ahead, Morey said the plan is to complete a community needs assessment. “That would involve having somebody come in and be able to pull together information we know is available through Statistics Canada, the City of Red Deer and hopefully through other community

HELPING HANDS - Harvey Jackson, a volunteer at the Lending Cupboard, enjoys sharing his time at the busy organization. The Red Deerbased society lends out medical equipment at no cost across the region. stakeholders like AHS, clinics or occupational therapists for example.”

Projected aging rates within local communities, projected increases in surgeries and what’s happening in terms of home care would all be extremely useful pieces of information, she said.

Meanwhile, on the volunteer front, the Lending Cupboard continues to attract a team that helps out in a number of ways from cleaning and maintaining equipment to working directly with clients and their families in selecting the right equipment for their particular need.

Terena Seaward, volunteer coordinator, said there are currently between about 70 to 80 volunteers.

Experience with medical equipment is of course an asset, but by no means a requirement. Being compassionate, empathetic and understanding are important attributes for volunteers, she said.

“Everyone that comes in here needing medical equipment is obviously going through a scary time - they might be

having surgery for example, or they could be getting something for their ailing parents. Or the donations are coming from a parent who has passed away so there are some people who when they come in, they want to tell the story of what happened. You have to show understanding towards their personal situations.”

Harvey Jackson has been helping out for about two years. He saw firsthand how the organization had provided such assistance to his mother-in-law, and realized what a service it was to the community.

He enjoys the spirit of working together with others for a common cause, adding he spends about 10 hours a week there.

“You meet different people - a lot of retired folks. Several ladies here also volunteer for maybe half a dozen outfits, and they come here as well. But the big thing is meeting people - eventually you find out a little bit more about their lives and their histories.

“I just knew this would be worthwhile.”

Meanwhile, staff are selling tickets for

Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express

the Feb. 11th performance of a dinner theatre at the Lacombe Golf and Country Club. Doors for the acclaimed comedy, called The Cemetery Club, open at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow at 6:30 p.m. The show is being staged by the Cow Patti Theatre Company.

Curtain is at 8 p.m. Tickets are $65 each and a percentage of the proceeds will go to helping support the Lending Cupboard.

Ultimately, Morey and her team see what they do as far more than simply a place to work.

“The Lending Cupboard fills my heart.

We know that with every single client that comes through our door that we are impacting their lives,” she said. “It’s such a great team of staff and volunteers here, too. I hear from them, every single day that they come in, that it’s a joy for them, too. So the energy is good at the Lending Cupboard.”

Check out www.lendingcupboard.ca or call 403-356-1678. editor@reddeerexpress.com

4 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

North Hwy. 11A plan approved

BY ERIN FAWCETT RED DEER EXPRESS The City of Red Deer will move forward with development to the north after approval from council at this week’s meeting.

“FOR ME, I REALLY APPRECIATE WHEN WE DO A PLAN LIKE THIS, THAT WE RECOGNIZE THOSE WHO ALREADY HAVE THEIR FOOTPRINT ON THE LAND.” DIANNE WYNTJES The area is about 22 quarter sections of land and was annexed from Red Deer County in 2009.

Within the area there is a country residential area in Central Park, agricultural uses, three former landfills, Hazlett Lake, which

is the largest lake in Red Deer, existing large industrial uses, the Chiles Industrial Park and the Red Deer River which bounds the south and east.

As for development in the area, there will be a mix of land uses throughout the north of Hwy. 11A including residential, commercial, light industrial, parks and mixed residential/commercial.

All development within the plan area must be preceded by an adopted multi-neighbourhood plan and a neighbourhood or industrial area structure plan.

Residential areas within the plan will have a minimum density of 17 dwelling units per net developable hectare.

Phase 1 of the area is expected to be ready for development in 2017. The phases to follow will be demand driven in terms of time lines.

About 50 people attended the public hearing for the North of 11A Major Area Structure Plan on Monday night.

AFTERNOON SNACK - A moose was spotted at Three Mile Bend this past weekend, peacefully nibbling at barren branches beside one of the pathways.

Concerns included setbacks, development around Hazlett Lake, increased traffic, dwelling density and there was dis-

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cussion around the proposed multi-neighbourhood community centre.

Councillor Lynne Mulder said she was in favour of the development.

“I’m excited to see this area developed and I can’t wait to see where we get to. We have an opportunity here and I feel like we’re going to make the most of it,” she said.

Councillor Dianne Wyntjes agreed. “For me, I really appreciate when we do a plan like this, that we recognize those who already have their footprint on the land.”

Mayor Tara Veer spoke in favour of the plan as well.

“I think this is a high-level, conceptual plan that allows us to develop north of 11A but it still keeps some options open for the future.

There are few areas in Red Deer’s boundary that present as much potential and as much challenge within close proximity,” said Veer.

“When I look at this plan, this is a longstanding vision for Red Deer to move north of Hwy. 11A and while we are certainly in a deeper recession than what we were faced with in 2008 and 2009, we

have a responsibility to be ready when we return to a growth cycle.

“Red Deer has been caught short historically where we ran out of prime industrial land and we are still suffering from the consequences of that.

“Even though it doesn’t seem intuitive to move forward with a growth-driven plan right now, we must be ready for our future.”

Although an approval was given for the plan as a whole, more consultation will be required as specific plans move forward. efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

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6 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

OPINION STARS an organization certainly worth supporting There are so many people who really owe their lives to the services of STARS Air Ambulances.

STARS’ mission is dedicated to providing a safe, rapid, highly specialized emergency medical transport system for the critically ill and injured.

Clearly, an organization that deserves the public’s support and they can do that via the annual STARS Lottery dream home, built by Falcon Homes, located in Sylvan Lake.

The lottery launch was held last week, and always includes a story from someone who was rescued by STARS and is willing to share their experience.

It always proves to be a powerful time of hearing such stories of survival, thanks to the timely and state-of-the-art care provided by the STARS teams.

According to their web site, “In the early 1980s, studies showed about half the deaths due to trauma could have been prevented if patients had received critical care sooner.

“When Dr. Greg Powell lost a young mother who was being transported from a rural area to Calgary by ground am-

bulance, he decided something had to change.

That’s when he founded STARS. Less than half the population of western Canada lives in major urban centres and has access to critical care within minutes.

For the other half such access is measured in hours. That can mean the difference between life and death; full recovery or permanent damage.

“With STARS, those living in rural communities, working in remote areas, travelling on highways or being transported from community hospitals to major medical centres, receive the very best in critical care in helicopters staffed and outfitted as mobile ICUs,” says the web site.

STARS helicopters are also defined as more than an ambulance in the air; “They are a sophisticated medical environment brought directly to the patient, be it at the side of the road or at a small rural hospital.

On board, a full array of medications and equipment is at the disposal of the air medical crew.

They can administer life-saving drugs,

defibrillate a patient’s heart, transfuse blood, or even peer inside using portable ultrasound technology.

“Throughout the transport, the crew communicates with a STARS transport physician as well as the hospital that will receive the patient by radio, cellular phone, or a satellite link. This ensures that everyone involved in the patient’s care is connected and participates in the decision-making process.”

Meanwhile, the furnished grand prize home in Sylvan Lake where the local launch was held is one of four throughout the province and is worth over $945,000.

More than 3,200 prizes are available this year and are valued at $5.6 million.

Other prizes include a ‘home away from home’ truck-trailer combo valued at $141,503, as well as a car, vacation, cash package which includes a 2016 Audi TT Quatro Coupe and seven nights for two adults in London, England with $5,000 cash.

During the grand opening last week, Jeffery Quick, chief financial officer and executive vice president of STARS Foundation, explained in 2014/15 STARS

flew 1,839 missions.

This includes six to Sylvan Lake, 68 to Red Deer, 36 to Rocky Mountain House, 19 to Olds, 18 to Stettler and 17 to Ponoka.

He added Central Alberta is one of their most flown to areas and also one of the largest supporters of the lottery.

The annual lottery raises funds for the air ambulance service, with tickets set at $25 and which are available at the dream home in Sylvan Lake or online at www. starslotteryalberta.ca.

We encourage people to support this lottery in particular because you never know when you or a loved one will ever need this life-saving service.

There aren’t many organizations like STARS that directly impact people’s lives in such desperate situations.

It truly is a matter of life and death in so many cases that STARS is dispatched to.

Even though times are tough for many Albertans, and when donations seem harder to come by, STARS is certainly worth considering if you have any extra to give.

And with tickets only $25 each, it’s money well spent.

Refugees may fuel Canada’s economic growth Canada has always had a soft spot for refugees who have shaped our nation’s history, fuelled its economic growth, defined its social fabric and influenced its political direction.

Constantine

PASSARIS This tradition began most significantly in 1783 with the arrival of United Empire Loyalists seeking safe haven from the American Revolution.

About 33,000 settled in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, with another 2,000

to Prince Edward Island and 10,000 or so more to modern day Quebec and Ontario. They were followed in the 19th century by, among others, Poles, Ukrainians and Jews who fled from oppression and persecution and wound up building Canada into the great nation it is today.

Canadians have long been known and recognized not only for humanitarian actions but also for understanding the passion and value refugees bring.

In 1986, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees conferred the Nansen Medal upon the people of Canada in recognition of that tradition which since the Second World War has welcomed waves of refugees from Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Uganda, Chile, China and

Vietnam, to say nothing of the many displaced Europeans who sought a better post war life here.

The Syrians are but the most recent manifestation and there is no reason to expect they will not, like those who came before, work hard to build a better life and a richer, stronger Canada.

In what has become the world’s largest humanitarian crisis in close to 70 years, more than four million people have fled Syria since the conflicts there began. In 2015, more than one million crossed into Europe and Canada has committed to accepting 25,000, close to 7,000 of whom have already arrived, over the next few months.

By chance and while on a week long working visit

to Greece last month, I encountered two busloads of these people and they were not what one would assume to be typical refugees. Most were well nourished and part of healthy young families. They were elegantly dressed, articulate and had money. They doted on their children, buying them sweets, chocolate bars and pop. Clearly, they were a segment of the Syrian middle class fleeing their war torn country in search of political stability and economic opportunity.

There was nothing about them to justify the mythical rhetoric that refugees are a security risk, a drain on the public treasury and a burden on our health care system. Canada screens diligently and carefully for security and health risks.

In fact, coming to Canada

as a refugee is twice as difficult as being admitted as an economic migrant.

This is because admission as a refugee in Canada requires United Nations certification. Further, applicants need to possess the human capital and work skills that will lead to successful integration in our society and economy.

The arrival of the latest wave of Syrians in the past few weeks is more than an act of collective Canadian compassion. It is an investment - a tool for addressing our population challenges which in turn gives us the manpower necessary to fuel our economic growth.

Expect this wave of refugees, just as those who came before have done, to empower us with their entrepreneurial talents,

start new businesses, invest, spend on homes, cars and other items, join our workforce and enroll in our schools. All of this will grow our economy. In short, the Syrian movement will, similar to the influx of previous waves of refugees throughout our history, become a driver of population growth and economic activity.

The arrival of Syrian refugees to Canada will be both a humanitarian triumph and an economic lift off.

Dr. Constantine Passaris is a professor of Economics at the University of New Brunswick and a national research affiliate of the Prentice Institute for Global Economy and Population at the University of Lethbridge (Canada). His column is distributed through Troy Media.

#121, 5301 - 43 St Red Deer, AB T4N 1C8

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 7

Local officials continue to wait for provincial courthouse decision City spends upwards of $77,000 annually for upkeep of vacant building “They have been responsive - Minister of Justice and Solicitor General Kathleen Ganley has made herself available to me,� she added. “I have met with her on a few occasions and we’ve submitted formal correspondence to her and we remain in regular contact over the telephone. “Our submission to the minister of justice and solicitor general has been the same request, saying that we recognize the financial capital challenges that the province is faced with and while we are very strong in our position that we need those justice outcomes for Red Deer and region, while we’re in the recession, we at least need to bring a

resolution to the negotiations around the land and securing that site for the provincial government.�

In a statement sent to the Express, Ganley stated, “We are aware of the capacity pressures within the Red Deer courthouse.

Renovations are underway to address the current short-term needs of the facility. We are reviewing the need for new courthouse construction, but a final decision has not been made. “The project will be evaluated alongside other critical infrastructure projects such as schools and hospitals. “Our government is committed to ensuring Albertans have access to justice, and that includes

access to court facilities.�

Meanwhile, Veer said as the City continues to be in limbo with regards to the former RCMP detachment site, frustration around the council table, as well as with City administration and residents continues to grow. “There is a very strong consensus that whenever you have any financial cost associated with a vacant building, there is strong sentiment that it is throwing good money after bad,� she said. “I think there is recognition across the board that it’s an unfortunate reality because we do not want to compromise on the bigger vision and need for our community which is se-

38106 Range Road 275, Red Deer County, AB T4S 2L9

WWW.RDCOUNTY.CA

NOTICE is hereby given that at its meeting to be held on TUESDAY, February 2, 2016, the Council of Red Deer County will consider Bylaw No. 2015/35 to adopt the Poplar Pointe Estates Local Area Structure Plan for NE 29-38-24-4.

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efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Ph: 403-350-2150 Fx: 403-346-9840

A PUBLIC HEARING prior to further consideration of the proposed bylaw WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, February 2, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, in the Council Chambers, County OfďŹ ce, 38106 Rge Rd 275, Red Deer County, Alberta (west of Hwy 2 on 32 Street / C&E Trail Overpass).

The hearing will be conducted under the chairmanship of the County Mayor for the purpose of hearing comments on the proposed bylaw.

The hearing will be informal with persons wishing to speak being recognized through the Chair. Presenters will be requested to state their name and address for the record.

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curing the courthouse for that site.�

Moving forward, Veer said she hopes to have resolution to this issue before the end of the year. “We’ve been working proactively with the provincial government since they were sworn in last May and my hope is to contact Minister Ganley again in person following the tenure of our council deliberations and my hope would be that we would have resolution before our next budget deliberations.�

In addition, phone messages left for both NDP MLA South Barb Miller and NDP MLA North Kim Schreiner were not returned by press time.

A great place to live, work & grow

PUBLIC NOTICES

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If you prefer to submit comments on the bylaw in writing, the information you provide may be made public, subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

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The City of Red Deer continues to spend thousands of dollars on a vacant building as they wait for word from the Province regarding a new courthouse.

That waiting period comes with a $77,000 annual price tag.

City council recently approved the expenditure again in the 2016 operating budget.

The funds will be used for the upkeep of the former RCMP detachment located on 49th St., which is slated to become the City’s new courthouse. “During the operating budget deliberations, council had substantial discussions surrounding the operating and maintenance costs of the former RCMP building,� said Veer. “Ultimately we have carrying costs, unfortunately, of $77,000 per year total - and that was after we made some reductions on the carrying costs of that building. “Council had considerable discussion around our frustration with the fact that we have yet to receive a decision with respect to the provincial government securing the site as the site for the next provincial courthouse.

The challenge council is faced with right now is that essentially the City has been mothballing the building for the past few years since the RCMP moved to their new location.�

Veer said not only does the City have the carrying costs that go with the upkeep of the former RCMP detachment, but the land the building is on is prime, developable land in the City’s downtown core. “Years ago the City began discussions with the provincial government, recognizing that with the closure of some of the regional courts that not only had the Red Deer courthouse reached capacity because of our growing population, it has completely reached capacity because we are serving the regional population of upwards of 320,000 to 350,000,� she added. “The City and the provincial government, in recognition of this fact, began discussions about expanding the existing Red Deer courthouse, which

for reasons identified by the Ministry of Justice and Infrastructure, expansion on the existing site was a non-starter. “Then negotiations began moving into land acquisition. The former RCMP building site was identified as the prime location from the provincial perspective for a number of reasons. First because it’s serving not only Red Deer, but the region as well, downtown Red Deer was identified as the ideal location because it’s the centre of all of the service area. “Also from a logistical perspective, it’s really the only land mass that is in close proximity to the Red Deer Remand Centre.

There already is the existing parkade that has parking capacity next to it.�

Veer added one option that has been discussed in the past is to demolish the current building. “We could have moved towards demolition of the building in recognition of the fact that the province will build the next Red Deer regional courthouse there. “Having said that, those demolition costs are upwards of $1 million and it was thought those funds are not good value for the taxpayer in the sense that if the province moves to construction, the hole where it was vacated would just have to be dug up again,� she said. “In trying to be financially efficient, we’ve been carrying this awaiting decision from the province.�

Before last year’s provincial election, Veer said significant progress had been made with the Conservative government in terms of moving forward with the issue. “A week before the new provincial government was elected, we were at the one-yard line. The minister of justice had called to indicate that while they couldn’t give an answer on the capital, the City’s request for a decision on the land was reasonable and was being processed.

At that point we felt like we had made progress,� said Veer. “Having said that, the new government came in, and with all due respect we needed to give them time to familiarize with files throughout the province.

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BY ERIN FAWCETT RED DEER EXPRESS

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NOTICE is hereby given that at its meeting to be held on TUESDAY, February 16, 2016, the Council of Red Deer County will consider Bylaw No. 2016/1, a bylaw to authorize Red Deer County lending $300,000 to the Red Deer Regional Airport Authority for the construction of an access to Apron 2 on Airport lands. This is an interest-free loan for a 7-year term.

Any elector wishing to submit a petition for a vote of the electors to determine whether the proposed bylaw should be passed must comply with Section 231 of the Municipal Government Act. Such petition must be ďŹ led with the Chief Administrative OfďŹ cer of Red Deer County within 15 days of the last date on which the proposed bylaw is advertised (January 27, 2016.)

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The purpose of this bylaw is to facilitate the rezoning and subdivision of a 53.8-hectare (133.06-acre) parcel to create a 39-lot country residential development. The property is located approximately 2.5 miles west of the City of Red Deer between Hwys 11 and 11A, directly north of Harvey Heights on Rge Rd 284.

The public may inspect: - a copy of the proposed Bylaws by visiting our website at www.rdcounty.ca or at the County ofďŹ ce located at 38106 Rge Rd 275, Red Deer County, Alberta, during regular ofďŹ ce hours 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. MONDAY through FRIDAY.

8 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

City council passes $349.2 million operating budget Residents to see 2.9% tax increase this year - the lowest in 15 years

BY ERIN FAWCETT RED DEER EXPRESS After nearly seven days of deliberation, City council approved a $349.2 million operating budget last week with a 2.9% tax increase.

The 2.9% increase in the operating budget is made up of 1.53% for operating costs, 1% for capital savings, and 0.37% in downloading costs from the provincial government.

“Given the economic reality we are navigating through, this is our lowest tax increase in 15 years. The last time the tax rate was below three per cent was in 2001. This year’s budget is all about balancing vision and the needs of our community with our current economic reality,” said Mayor Tara Veer. “We were faced with a number of opportunities and some challenges during the 2016 budget debate; however, I believe the budget approved not only enables us to maintain existing programs and

services but ensures responsive enhancements in critical areas our citizens have identified for us like transportation, safety and infrastructure.”

The tax increase means for a homeowner’s property that has seen an average change in assessed value and is assessed at $325,000 for the 2016 tax year, this equates to an increase of $55.97 for 2016, or $4.66 per month.

The 2016 tax rate will be set later this spring. That tax rate will then be combined with the education tax rate and the Piper Creek Foundation requisition to help determine how much property tax residents will pay. An assessed property value is multiplied by the property tax rate to determine a resident’s property tax bill.

“Eighty three per cent of citizens surveyed as part of the City’s annual citizen satisfaction survey told us they get very good value or fairly good value for their tax dollar,” said City

Manager Craig Curtis. “We believe this budget continues to provide good value for each tax dollar, balancing the current economic climate while not compromising the future.”

The approved operating budget includes a 1% capital contribution in 2016 and 2017. It also considers a $455,000 reduction in grant funding from the provincial government, which previously paid for provincial property taxes.

“There is a significant financial implication in the direct downloads and a lack of transparency in the indirect downloads from the province, which greatly impacts our budget and tax rate,” said Veer. “Some of the direct downloads in this budget, which the City must now fund, include the shortfall in funding three RCMP officers, elimination of the grant that covers the property taxes on some provincially owned buildings, and emergency shelter plan funding. We are also unsure of the budget impacts in

light of the newly announced carbon tax and the impact on our citizens.”

Council considered approximately $2 million in corporate cost savings, revenues, and efficiencies to arrive at the 2.9% tax increase.

Some additional budget items include investment in a mass notification system that will enable the City to communicate differently with citizens about emerging issues and situations.

City council also approved six new police members, an investment in roads, neighbourhood parks, increased action bus service, transit to new areas in Timberlands and expanded night service.

Councillor Dianne Wyntjes said careful consideration was given to the province’s economy during budget deliberations.

“I don’t think you can go to any community event or coffee shop these days and not hear people talking about the economy and we certainly are living in chal-

lenging, economic times,” she said. “There are no quick fixes or easy answers to Canada’s economy and that means we are all in this together from coast, to coast to coast. We do face low oil prices, a struggling economy, a provincial budget deficit and our municipality has felt the impact of downloading from the provincial government.”

Veer agreed.

“When I look at this budget, I believe we are fulfilling our responsibility to move our community forward, as well as being responsive to the new economic normal that we are not moving together through,” she said.

“Economists, as we know, do not always agree - but generally economists will agree on the fact that a government’s mandate in a recession is to bring stability.

This budget is a methodical, sustainable effort to bring stability and to continue to stabilize our local economy.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

National chief includes Red Deer on current tour

BY KALISHA MENDONSA RED DEER EXPRESS Last week Red Deer was privy to a visit from the National Chief of Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, Dwight Dorey.

Dorey is currently engaging in a tour that will be bringing him from coast to coast to discuss the needs, issues and

opinions of those in his constituency.

As the current leader of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP), Dorey looks into the interests of all off-reserve status and non-status Indians, Metis and Southern Inuit Aboriginal peoples.

He said this engagement tour is an opportunity for him to hear what people living off-reserve and in urban areas are

Whistleblowing, Conflicts of Interest, Elections, Election Financing What do you think?

Are you interested in how candidates and parties are financed; how provincial elections are run; the balance between an MLA’s private interests and public duties; and whether public servants who report wrongdoing are adequately protected? We want to hear from you!

The Legislative Assembly of Alberta Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee is reviewing legislation and would like to hear from you on the above questions and on other issues regarding: • • • •

Public Interest Disclosure (Whistleblower Protection) Act 16013LL0 Conflicts of Interest Act Election Act Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act

Visit the committee website to learn more about these Acts: assembly.ab.ca/committees/ethicsandaccountability Written submissions will be accepted until Friday, February 26, 2016.

Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee 3rd Floor, 9820 - 107 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5K 1E7 EthicsandAccountability.Committee@assembly.ab.ca 780.644.8621 (Call toll-free by dialing 310.0000) Note: Submissions and identities of authors may be made public. assembly. ab.ca/commit tees/ethicsandaccountabilit y

dealing with and what concerns they have to bring forward.

“I think the Red Deer visit was a good opportunity to get connected with people.

Some of the questions and comments people had were very effective in terms of the kind of information I’m looking to get,” Dorey said. “I felt that there was generally a good, positive response to the presentation I made about who are as the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. Already on this grassroots tour I’ve had the opportunities to meet with some of the provincial and municipal government officials in Calgary and Edmonton. My opinion is that the people in these jurisdictions have an optimistic view and seem to be encouraged with the opportunity to be working in partnership again with federal government.”

“The whole sense of partnership is being felt all throughout my trip, and that’s quite encouraging.”

Dorey was met by approximately 25 members of the local community, who brought up issues such as working with governments to potentially see the missing and murdered women in context as a hate crime and readjusting financial distribution from industries such as mining, logging, etc. that are done on reserve lands and treaty-protected regions.

He said he was pleased to receive information about what was important to this region.

“This is my first go-around, and I definitely will be back in this area sometime in the near future,” he said.

“I’m getting very positive input and interest from different community groups that are interested in affiliating with our congress. We don’t technically have an affiliate in this area right now. I had dinner with some people here and it was great because they are ready to get to work and I’m ready to have them join us.”

Dorey has already travelled through several regions in British Columbia, and

CHIEF DWIGHT DOREY is making his way up to the Northwest Territories and Yukon before taking a small break. He will then return to the next leg of his tour.

“I’m planning to make at least two or three stops in major centres of each province. In addition to that, I’m meeting with various government officials, both municipal and provincial. While I’m in Yellowknife, I’ll be having dinner with the premier there. As well, I met with some officials in Edmonton from the Aboriginal Affairs section,” he said.

He added he is glad to be developing relationships with local and provincial branches of government, as well as engaging the federal government with the concerns he hears during these meetings.

In regards to the issues of the national inquiry into missing and murdered Aboriginal women and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report, Dorey said he is so far pleased with how the federal government was navigating these issues. “The official ministers of these issues are involved currently and are taking a sort of first go-around meeting with the victims of the violence - the families. It’s a very important first step,” he said.

Dorey said he enjoyed his time in Red Deer and was eager to use the information gathered here in his overall report that he will bring back to the federal government. kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 9

Residential plowing begins in City Residential plowing has been triggered and began on Tuesday. Residents are reminded to not park on the street when their Snow Zone and Route are scheduled to avoid getting a ticket.

Plowing started in Snow Zone C, Green Routes, and the remaining Snow Zones and Routes will be scheduled and announced in alphabetical order until complete (ending with B).

To avoid getting a ticket, residents need to know their Snow Zone (letters A-K) and Route (Green or Grey); checking the schedule by viewing the map and schedule, signing up for Snow Zone email alerts, following the City of Red Deer’s facebook and Twitter pages, calling the Snow Zone Hotline at 403-406-8796 or looking for signage: Red ‘no parking’ signs are used on Green Routes only. On Grey Routes, there will be large signs at the entrances to neighbourhoods indicating when plowing is taking place.

Residents are also asked to move their vehicles when plowing is scheduled.

Plowing occurs from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.,

Monday to Saturday on Green Routes and Monday to Friday on Grey Routes.

Vehicles parked on Green Routes during plowing will be ticketed and towed, and vehicles parked on Grey Routes will be ticketed and plowed in.

“We need the cooperation of residents to move their vehicles from the street when their Snow Zone and Route are scheduled,” said Greg Sikora, public works manager. “Vehicles parked on the street slow down our operations, making it difficult to plow a smooth surface, resulting in an uneven roadway.”

Green Routes are plowed to bare pavement, the snow is removed and there are no windrows. Grey Routes are plowed to a 5 cm snow pack, and windrows are left on both sides of the street. Windrows from front driveways will be cleared and the snow will be placed on the windrows on the remainder of the street.

For more information about the new snow and ice program, visit www.reddeer.ca/snowzone.

- Fawcett

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10 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

Oilmen’s Bonspiel 34th ANNUAL

JANUARY 22-24

2015 WINNERS

Pidherney Centre, 4725 - 43 Street Home of Red Deer Curling • SC & RA snubbing • Hot Taps • Well & Valve Freeze

to the 34th

Welcome Oilmen Annual Bonspiel

Phone h 403-755-2001

Welcomes you to the

34th Annual Oilmen’s Bonspiel

Good Luck!

P.O. Box 540 Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 5G1 Phone: 403-358-3500 Fax: 403-358-3558

Congratulations Congratulations onRockin’ Rockin’ it on for for34 31years. years.

BONSPIEL EVENTS FRIDAY, JANUARY 22, 2016 12:00pm Registration 1:00pm First Draw 3:30pm Second Draw 6:00pm Auction 8:00pm Third Draw SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2016 8:00am Breakfast 9:00am First Draw 11:30am Second Draw 1:00pm Third Draw 3:00pm Fourth Draw 6:00pm Cocktails 7:00pm Banquet 9:00pm Dance SUNDAY, JANUARY 24, 2016 9:30am First Draw 1:00pm Second Draw

WORLDWIDE KNOWLEDGE - LOCAL SOLUTIONS

“Congratulations “Co Curlers” Earl Dreeshen, MP Red Deer - Mountain View

4315-55th Ave. Suite 100A, Red Deer Phone 403-347-7426 1-866-211-0959

www.earldreeshen.ca

HY YDR DROT OTES OT E TE ES TERS S HYDROTESTERS Rick Fobes, Cliff Fobes Shawn Fobes, Clint Fobes

ELECTROGAS E EL EC CTROG TR RO OG GA AS S MONITORS MO ON NIT ITO OR RS Brent Leptich, Wayne Bateman Greg Engman, Blaine Ringham

GUARDIAN G GU A DI AR D AN AN Stan Gervais, Bryan Blaylock Brandon Lyle, Rob Holland

WE W EST STE ER RN ONE ONE ON WESTERN Scott Cruickshank, James Pearce Richard Glass, Darryl Srethun

Good Luck to All Curlers!

RAPI RA PID PI D ROD/GRANT RO ROD/ OD/GR D/GR G AN A T PTS PTS PT RAPID Duncan Chisholm, Jim Smith Justin Chisholm, Robin Brittner

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 11

Oilmen’s Bonspiel 34th ANNUAL

PLATINUM ($1000.00 +)

Bunch Projects Challand Pipeline Ltd Lakeview Hotels Mas-Pro Oilfield Supply Mills Travel & Red Deer Oilmen’s

GOLD (>$500.00)

C&J Energy Downtons Oilfield Services Hydrotesters Nelgar Precision Well Service Quality Tubing Stealth Inspection Team 1 Terroco Oilfield Services Total Oilfield Rentals

SILVER (>$300.00)

Premier Integrated Technologie Electrogas Kansas Ridge Trucking CVS Controls

BRONZE (>$100.00)

Distribution NOW CWC / Monster Energy Rentals Nexsource Power Kings Energy Blue Star Energy Inc Shawcor High Arctic

2016 34TH RED DEER OILMENS BONSPIEL SPONSORS BREAKFAST SPONSORS

GENERAL SHUTTLE SERVICE

1 C&J Energy Services 2 Great North Equipment 3 Treeline Well Services

1 Firemaster Oilfield Services

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Good Luck Curlers!

Precision Well Servicing Welcome Oilmen to the 34th Annual Bonspiel

403-343-3174

1 Indy Graphics Group

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1 Barden Oilfield Hauling 2 Challand Pipeline

1 Riley’s Printing

CHOCOLATES

EVENT SPONSORS:

1 Total Oilfield Rentals 2 Rebel Energy Services Ltd

1 Hydrotesters 2 Nelgar 3 Andy’s 4 Precision Well Servicing 5 Mas-Pro Oilfield Supply 6 Red Deer Oilmen’s

WINE 1 Aero Rentals 2 Stealth Oilfield Inspections Ltd

LAS VEGAS TRIPS Gasoline Alley & Southpointe Common Drive Thrus

SIGNAGE

1 Mas-Pro Oilfield Supply 2 Mills Travel & Red Deer Oilmen’s Bonspiel

FEATURE PRIZE 1 Can West Propane

SHERATON SHUTTLE SERVICE 1 Break Away Hotshot Ltd.

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12 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

Local task force plays role in massive drug bust A joint investigation between the Priority Crimes Task Force and Calgary Police Service (CPS) has put a significant dent in an organized crime trafficking operation after search warrants in Calgary and Red Deer yielded large amounts of guns, ammunition and drugs, and sent three people to jail.

Calgary Police Service initiated their investigation last March after receiving a tip about ongoing drug activity; they quickly noted connections to the Red Deer area.

When Red Deer area RCMP GIS and the Priority Crimes Task Force initiated their own investigation in October after receiving independent intelligence regarding drug activity, it became clear that RCMP and CPS were investigating the same suspects. Last November, the two police forces combined forces to share intelligence and support each other’s efforts, with assistance from ALERT. The task force spent significant time gathering intelligence between October and the end of December as two of the suspects, who lived in Red Deer and Calgary, were extremely active in drug trafficking and violent crimes in the Red Deer area during this time period.

On Jan. 5th, CPS responded to an attempted armed robbery at

the Rocky Mountain Pawn shop at 4108 Macleod Trail South. The suspects fled in a stolen vehicle that police believed was connected to the trafficking investigation.

Numerous Calgary Police units responded, including the HAWCs helicopter, which observed the suspects abandon the stolen vehicle and flee in a second vehicle.

Police conducted a high-risk vehicle stop of the second vehicle in the 100 block of Silverado Creek Cresc. SW. Over the next few days, a vehicle search by CPS and five CDSA search warrants led by RCMP were completed on an apartment at 475 Lancaster Dr. in Red Deer; two rooms in a hotel in Gasoline Alley, a residence located in the 0-100 block of Silverado Creek Cresc.

SW in Calgary, and a residence located in the 14000 block of 6th St. SW in Calgary.

During the six searches, CPS and RCMP officers seized body armor containing a ceramic plate, nine guns, 12, 159 rounds of ammunition, $14,400 cash and almost 400 grams of drugs.

Two individuals were taken into custody from the vehicle in Calgary, and a third after the Red Deer search warrants.

Shawn Barry Steier, 30, of Red Deer, has been charged with two

counts of robbery, two counts of pointing a firearm, possession of stolen property over $5,000, two counts of knowing possession of an unlicensed weapon, unlawfully at large and having a face masked or disguised during an offence.

Wayant Donald Chapin, 37, of Calgary, has been charged with two counts of robbery, possession of stolen property over $5,000, two counts of possession of an unlicensed weapon, possession of property obtained by crime, possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of crystal meth for the purpose of trafficking, possession of body armor without a valid permit, driving an uninsured motor vehicle on a highway and two counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Charges are also pending against a 55-year-old Red Deer woman and RCMP will issue an update once those charges are sworn before the courts.

The investigation is ongoing and more charges may be laid in the coming weeks.

“Drug traffickers and other criminals cross jurisdictions all the time, so interagency collaboration is crucial to disrupting their operations,” said Sgt. Eric McKenzie of the Red Deer RMCP.

SEIZURE - The Priority Crimes Task Force and Calgary Police Service held a joint press conference in Red Deer on Monday to discuss a recent drug bust. Pictured here are some of the seized items from the investigation.

Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express

“The drug trade fuels organized crime. It breeds violent crimes such as home invasions and robberies, as well as property crimes and vehicle theft. We will continue to hammer at drug trafficking operations, enforce laws against the drug trade, and put these violent offenders before the courts.”

The Priority Crimes Task Force is made up of police officers from Red Deer RCMP General Investigative Section (GIS), Sylvan Lake, Innisfail and Blackfalds

0.49

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Finance for

for 36 months APR

RCMP detachments.

“The sheer number of weapons and ammunition discovered during this operation is deeply concerning,” said Staff Sgt. Martin Schiavetta of the CPS Drug Unit.

“It speaks to the level of violence these groups are willing to go to, putting the public at significant risk. More than ever before, we must work together to put a stop to drug activity and the associated violence it brings.”

- Fawcett

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

A Preschool Open House is set to take place at Red Deer Montessori located in Cronquist Business Park on Jan. 21 and Feb. 4, both from 4-7 p.m. Staff would like to invite parents of young children aged 3-6 to come and check out their school.

Red Deer Montessori Preschool opened in 2001. The present location was architecturally designed with children in mind. There are two adjoining classrooms, and a kitchen on site, with a green space close by. All four talented staff are able to work together and access a vast inventory of age appropriate learning materials. Each class also has an inspiring music program.

At Red Deer Montessori, they would like to give back to the community by singing at senior citizen care facilities, occasionally host music concerts or child entertainers and have community visitors come in, to name a few. They also learn about their environment and cultural history by engaging in fieldtrips to Sunnybrook Farm and age appropriate fieldtrips to businesses in their area. The school donates a portion of tuition to those in need, such as the adoption of a foreign child, Medicine River Wildlife and STARS Ambulance, etc.

The purpose of Red Deer Montessori Preschool is to provide an enriching child-focused program, which is designed to meet the needs of children aged 3-6. Families can also apply for government subsidy depending on their income.

This program is based on Maria Montessori’s philosophy of education, which she developed by observing a child’s need to learn from using all five senses. She designed unique learning materials and activities that stir a child’s natural curiosity and love of knowledge.

This school is a safe place for children to grow, learn and express themselves in a caring atmosphere.

Montessori promotes a child’s independence, the joy of learning and self-accomplishment, while developing a deep respect for others, oneself and the environment. They also promote communication and information for parents.

What sets this school apart is that it is a learning-based program, rather than a play-based program. The class is filled with materials and activities that are not only fun, they are educational.

RED DEER EXPRESS 13

The different learning areas at Red Deer Montessori Preschool include practical life skills, sensorial, language, math, cultural, science as well as music and art.

The classrooms in the preschool are ‘child-sized’ with materials accessible for the children to reach.

“Montessori is great for three and four year olds since they are going through sensitive periods of learning, where skills and personality is established that benefit them throughout their lives,” said the schools educator Mr. Fred. “It establishes a firm foundation which helps a child become confident while they refine their skills leading them to become more independent, enquiring adults.”

The school has received tremendous positive feedback from parents whose children have been enrolled at Red Deer Montessori Preschool.

“Red Deer Montessori surpassed our expectations for preschool. We felt our child was provided a learning environment in which her interests were supported and her creativity was able to blossom. She loved the changing themes of the classrooms, songs and activities: while we loved the artwork and writing demonstrations she would bring home. The teachers create a warm, caring space, and genuinely enjoy their work with the children. We saw our child grow in her confidence: mind, body and soul. Her curiosity of the world around her and her love of learning has expanded since her time at Red Deer Montessori.” Sincerely, Greg Mangan & Drew Michael (Parents of Jaxon Jade) “Just a big thank you for providing a safe and caring learning environment for my child. Your friendliness, kindness and patience do not go unnoticed!” - Tanya Harding.

Open House Dates: January 21st – 4-7pm February 4th– 4-7pm

For more information about Red Deer Montessori Children’s House Preschool call 403-340-8877 or visit www.reddeermontessori.com.

14 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

2016 PRESCHOOL & CHILDCARE directory

Ways to make preschool smooth

BY RUSSELL MALICOTE Soon your infant will be attending preschool.

Although it is difficult to envision now, this will be a great time of growth.

The preschool teacher becomes a big part of your lives. Several parents do not seem to possess the identical respect for preschool teacher as they would for an elementary school teacher.

Yet these preschool teachers are assisting your toddlers as they get ready for kindergarten and beyond. We’ve compiled several ideas to make preschool smooth for you, your child and instructor.

First, take a look at what your child brings home. If your child has a school bag or backpack, look inside. It is extremely important that you simply take a look at

Exelta Gymnastics Playschooll Playschool for ages 3 & 4 that focuses not only on the cognitive, but also on fitness and physical development.

Registration for Sept-June 2016/17 opens: January 20 from 5:30-6:30pm at Exelta Gymnastics in the Collicutt Centre

all the projects your little guy has worked so hard on. Yes I realize that every day’s coloring page is not a work of art, but your toddler needs to understand how proud you are of him and the work he is performing.

Secondly, from the mouths of babes arrive your household secrets. Okay maybe family secrets is a bit dramatic, but toddlers love to tell every thing that they here. Our kids watch everything we do, and it’s inevitable that they’ll tell what they have heard and seen. So the next time you’re ranting and raving about someone make sure your toddler is

out of earshot.

You would like to respect the teacher’s time. Many parents treat preschool teachers like babysitters.

You need to keep in mind that the preschool teacher is really a professional and deserves your respect. She spends all day together with your precious little one caring for him or her and assisting children to mature. You need to pick your child up at the designated time. Just as you have labored all day so has she. She also needs to get home and take care of her household. So respect her by being on time to pick up

your son or daughter.

Now will be the time to get into the habit of celebrating your child for who he is and how he does things.

Each and every youngster is different and so they discover things in their own way and at their own pace. So learn to enjoy your son or daughter for exactly where he is now in his learning. This really is the preschool teacher does.

So refrain from comparing your child to other people and most definitely do not ask the teacher to compare your son or daughter to the other kids.

Preschool teachers have

your child’s best interest at heart. So once they tell you your child requires further evaluation in an area, or needs to work on something to come up to age level standards, trust them. They have the task of getting your child prepared for school and so they want to make certain they give each and every youngster the best foundation for a great academic career.

Take a couple of minutes and think of all the instructor does for your child each and every day. Value your children’s instructor and all that they do.

- Article City

SOUND CONNECTIONS LITERACY AND L ANGUAGE CENTRE

For more InformaƟon Call 403-342-4940, email info@exelta.ca or visit

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Children 3-5 Years Helping children reach their potenƟal!

Thursday Feb. 4th

Doors open at 6pm. Registration draw at 6:30 pm

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Do you simply want to give your pre-schooler a head start?

Experience fun, multi-sensory learning.

Sound Connections provides literacy intervention and/or www.soundconnectionscentres.com speech/language stimulation for all learners of all ages. Tel: (403) 347-3050 • soundconnections@live.ca

Welcome to Kindergarten at Chinook’s Edge School Division!

King’s Kids Playschool Christian learning through play program Ages 3 - 5 years

Open House & Registration Tuesday, March 8th 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

(Mount Calvary Lutheran Church) 18 Selkirk Blvd Fun with Faith Happens Here!

403-346-3798 www.mclcrd.org

Red Deer CHILD CARE Phone 347-7973 Before and After School Care 15 locations open 6:45 to 9:00am & 3:30 to 6:00 pm

Day Care 3 locations - bright, clean, spacious facilities, open 7:00 am to 6:00 pm

If Child Care is your chosen career, join us.

Aboriginal Playschool Program Family Day Homes

Loving home environments with some shift care spots available.

Company paid benefit package for employees in Always welcoming new Before and After School Care and Day Care after 3 months. children and providers.

ŚŝŶŽŽŬ͛Ɛ ĚŐĞ ŝƐ ĂĐĐĞƉƟŶŐ <ŝŶĚĞƌŐĂƌƚĞŶ ƌĞŐŝƐƚƌĂƟŽŶƐ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ϮϬϭϲͲϮϬϭϳ ƐĐŚŽŽů LJĞĂƌ ĂŶĚ ǁĞ ůŽŽŬ ĨŽƌǁĂƌĚ ƚŽ ǁĞůĐŽŵŝŶŐ <ŝŶĚĞƌŐĂƌƚĞŶ ƐƚƵĚĞŶƚƐ ŝŶƚŽ ŽƵƌ ƐĂĨĞ ĂŶĚ ĐĂƌŝŶŐ ƐĐŚŽŽů ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƟĞƐ͊ dŽ ĂƩĞŶĚ <ŝŶĚĞƌŐĂƌƚĞŶ ŝŶ ƵŐƵƐƚ ϮϬϭϲ͕ ƐƚƵĚĞŶƚƐ ŵƵƐƚ ƚƵƌŶ ϱ LJĞĂƌƐ ŽůĚ ďLJ ĞĐĞŵďĞƌ ϯϭ͕ ϮϬϭϲ͘ tĞ ŝŶǀŝƚĞ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ĐĂůů Žƌ ǀŝƐŝƚ Ă ŚŝŶŽŽŬ͛Ɛ ĚŐĞ ^ĐŚŽŽů ŝŶ LJŽƵƌ ĂƌĞĂ ƚŽ ĮŶĚ ŽƵƚ ŵŽƌĞ ĂďŽƵƚ ƚŚĞ ǁŽŶĚĞƌĨƵů ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƟĞƐ ǁĂŝƟŶŐ ĨŽƌ LJŽƵƌ ĐŚŝůĚ͊ /Ĩ LJŽƵ ĂƌĞ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚĞĚ ŝŶ WƌĞͲ<ŝŶĚĞƌŐĂƌƚĞŶ ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵŵŝŶŐ͕ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ ƵƐ͘ ĞĂĐŽŶ ,ŝůů ůĞŵĞŶƚĂƌLJ ^ĐŚŽŽů Ͳ ^LJůǀĂŶ >ĂŬĞ ĞŶĂůƚŽ ^ĐŚŽŽů ŽǁĚĞŶ 'ƌĂŶĚǀŝĞǁ ^ĐŚŽŽů ͘ W͘ ůĂŬĞůLJ ^ĐŚŽŽů Ͳ ^LJůǀĂŶ >ĂŬĞ ĂƌƐƚĂŝƌƐ ůĞŵĞŶƚĂƌLJ ^ĐŚŽŽů ŚŝŶŽŽŬ ĞŶƚĞƌ ^ĐŚŽŽů Ͳ /ŶŶŝƐĨĂŝů ƌĞŵŽŶĂ ^ĐŚŽŽů ĞůďƵƌŶĞ ĞŶƚƌĂůŝnjĞĚ ^ĐŚŽŽů ůŶŽƌĂ ^ĐŚŽŽů :ĞƐƐŝĞ ƵŶĐĂŶ ůĞŵĞŶƚĂƌLJ ^ĐŚŽŽů Ͳ WĞŶŚŽůĚ * ĐŽůĞ :ŽŚŶ tŝůƐŽŶ ůĞŵĞŶƚĂƌLJ ^ĐŚŽŽů Ͳ /ŶŶŝƐĨĂŝů FI ĐŽůĞ KůĚƐ ůĞŵĞŶƚĂƌLJ ^ĐŚŽŽů * FI KůĚƐ <ŽŝŶŽŶŝĂ ŚƌŝƐƟĂŶ ^ĐŚŽŽů WŽƉůĂƌ ZŝĚŐĞ ^ĐŚŽŽů ZĞĞĚ ZĂŶĐŚ ^ĐŚŽŽů ZŝǀĞƌ sĂůůĞLJ ^ĐŚŽŽů Ͳ ^ƵŶĚƌĞ ZŽƐƐ &ŽƌĚ ůĞŵĞŶƚĂƌLJ ^ĐŚŽŽů Ͳ ŝĚƐďƵƌLJ * ^ƉƌƵĐĞ sŝĞǁ ^ĐŚŽŽů ĐŽůĞ ^ƚĞĸĞ tŽŝŵĂ ^ĐŚŽŽů Ͳ ^LJůǀĂŶ >ĂŬĞ * FI

ϰϬϯͲϴϴϳͲϯϱϳϬ Žƌ ϴϴϳͲϯϬϴϴ ϭͲϴϬϬͲϱϲϭͲϵϮϮϵ ϰϬϯͲϮϮϰͲϯϮϱϬ ϰϬϯͲϴϴϳͲϯϱϳϬ ϰϬϯͲϯϯϳͲϴϲϳϬ ϰϬϯͲϮϮϳͲϬϭϳϬ ϰϬϯͲϲϯϳͲϯϴϱϲ ϰϬϯͲϳϰϵͲϯϴϯϴ ϰϬϯͲϳϳϯͲϯϲϮϰ ϰϬϯͲϴϴϲͲϮϮϯϯ ϰϬϯͲϮϮϳͲϯϮϵϮ ϰϬϯͲϱϱϲͲϴϰϳϳ ϰϬϯͲϱϱϲͲϰϬϯϴ ϰϬϯͲϯϰϯͲϴϴϮϭ ϰϬϯͲϱϱϲͲϮϰϮϵ ϰϬϯͲϲϯϴͲϯϵϯϵ ϰϬϯͲϯϯϱͲϯϮϯϰ ϰϬϯͲϳϮϴͲϯϰϱϵ ϰϬϯͲϴϴϳͲϯϬϴϴ

* ĂůƐŽ ŽīĞƌƐ WƌĞͲ<ŝŶĚĞƌŐĂƌƚĞŶ FI ĂůƐŽ ŽīĞƌƐ &ƌĞŶĐŚ /ŵŵĞƌƐŝŽŶ

Telephone: 1-800-561-9229

www.chinooksedge.ab.ca

There are no school fees for Kindergarten students in Chinook’s Edge School Division

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 15

2016 PRESCHOOL & CHILDCARE

directory

Red Deer College Child Care Centre Committed to the Quality Care and Teaching of Young Children

Children’s House Preschool

Offers full time and part time child care all year round

“We Provide the Materials and Activities that Stimulate a Child’s Natural Curiosity and a Love of Learning”

• accredited early learning and child care program

OPEN HOUSE

January 21st 4-7 pm February 4th 4-7 pm

• hot lunches & nutritional snacks • on site Kindergarten program • government subsidy available

Apply Now!

403.340.8877 4 03 340 8877 • C C9 95 5580 58 80 0 - 45 45 S St Street t t

w w w. r e d d e e r m o n t e s s o r i . c o m

Register now for...

Kindergarten An exciting learning opportunity for children begins with Kindergarten!

For more information or to register | 403.357.3600 | www.rdc.ab.ca/childcare

Parent Information Night February 18, 7:00 pm An opportunity for families to learn about the EASE preschool program

Program are available in English, French and Spanish.

Children must be 5 years of age by December 31, 2016.

Pre-Kindergarten We all want our kids to get off to a great start.

Learning through play, children aged 3-4 develop social and communication skills.

Register for Kindergarten and Pre-Kindergarten at any school starting January 4th.

Please bring your child’s birth certifcate when registering.

To learn more about Kindergarten and Pre-Kindergarten programming contact any Red Deer Public School or access www.rdpsd.ab.ca.

Early access to supports is essential for children with special needs.

Aspire Special Needs Resource Centre’s EASE preschool can help.

Aspire offers the specialized Early Access to Supportive Education (EASE) preschool program for children 2 1/2 to 6 years of age. Our on-site therapists and professionals help children in a variety of areas, including: Development Behaviour Vision & hearing

Social skills Motor Speech & language

Contact 403.340.2606 or inquiries@aspirespecialneeds.ca to register for the EASE parent information night.

Visit www.aspirespecialneeds.ca to learn about EASE and the assessments, services and training at Aspire.

4826 47 Street Red Deer, AB T4N 1R2

403.340.2606

www.aspirespecialneeds.ca

16 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

A look back at Red Deer in 1946 Another New Year is now underway.

However, with the Alberta economy under

serious threat with the enormous decline in energy prices, many people are looking to the coming year

Committed to helping you hear.

403-346-3939 TOLL FREE: 1-877-824-3939

Sandra Duncan, BC-HIS Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner Dr. Neil Cannon, AuD. Doctor of Audiology

Riverlands Gate Business Centre Suite 202, 4327-54th Ave. (Taylor Dr./45 St.)

www.riverlandhearing.com

Happy New Year!

GET AHEAD OF THE CROWD YOUR CAREER TRAINING STARTS NOW!

Michael

DAWE with trepidation and even fear. Another year, which started with a great deal of uncertainly, occurred 70 years ago in 1946.

Actually, there was much to be happy about in the community. The Second World War had finally come to an end in 1945. Young veterans were streaming home to reunite with their families and loved ones, and to start new lives.

However, a great global war had ceased less than three decades earlier when the First World War finally ended in November 1918.

The aftermath of that terrible conflict had brought several years of economic distress and suffering for veterans and civilians alike.

People hoped that the governments were much better prepared this time, but there was always a nagging doubt that things could still go awry.

While many proclaimed

that long-term peace had now been achieved, the First World War had also been referred to as the ‘War to End All Wars’.

The great Nazi and fascist armies had been crushed, but many wondered if that menace would soon be replaced by a bigger threat of world-wide communist aggression.

While there were justified worries about the longevity of peace, there were worries as to how quickly a wartime economy could be changed back to peacetime one. One immediate crisis involved housing the large numbers of returning veterans and their new families.

During the hard times between the First and the Second World Wars, there had been very little new construction. For a great many years, the population of the City had stagnated at around 2,800. Now, it was quickly beginning to soar to more than 4,000.

Moreover, many existing buildings had become quite run-down during the Depression years.

In order to provide quick interim housing, the old barracks buildings at the large A-20 Army Camp, north of 55 St. were turned

into suites. Some open areas to the south were used by the Department of Veterans Affairs to start the construction of small new houses.

The old A-20 Camp was not only used as a housing centre. Part of the facility was also turned into the Canadian Vocational Training Centre No. 8.

That meant that veterans would have an opportunity to secure vocational instruction and in turn, increase the numbers of much-needed tradesmen.

Local efforts at new construction and development, however, were hampered by on-going shortages of essential materials.

Moreover, while the continuation of wartime rationing helped to prevent the surge of inflation that had devastated the economy immediately after the First World War, it also increased the difficulties for people to purchase the things they needed for new homes and businesses.

The challenges of the transitional economy are evident with the experiences of Burns Chisholm, who started the City’s first in-town bus service in 1946.

Buying a new vehicle was impossible, so he purchased a 1941 Woodie station wagon. He was able to modify it into a reasonable 10 passenger vehicle. However, the station wagon was almost always in need of repair. Chisholm soon found that all of his profits were going to pay his garage and mechanics’ bills. Hence, within a year, he was forced to sell his business to Dan Donaghy of North Red Deer.

On-going shortages of steel created enormous challenges for the installation of natural gas service in Red Deer by Northwestern Utilities. With all of the delays, it was not until the late summer of 1947 that the enormous project was finally concluded.

The ceremonial gas flare, which was lit in City Hall Park on Aug. 22, 1947, was a symbol of the new era of modern heating and comfort in the community.

However, it also coincided with the discovery of a huge oilfield at Leduc during the spring and summer of 1947. The oil and gas industry, that has been so crucial to Alberta’s prosperity, had finally come of age.

BUSINESS, HEALTHCARE, IT, LEGAL, HOSPITALITY AND MORE! Expect from Academy of Learning Career College:

3 A wide variety of career programs to choose from 3 Advice on the best funding options available to you 3 A supportive, effective and flexible learning environment 3 Caring student supports including job placement assistance

BE JOB READY IN 10 TO 12 MONTHS

CALL TODAY! Call (403) 347-6676 2965 Bremner Avenue

DOWNTOWN VIEW - Ross St. looking west from 49 Ave., 1946.

Red Deer Archives P2832

WAIT! If you are looking for an RV,

If you are looking for an RV, join us for our ONE OF A KIND SALE! Our largest and best selection in the 30 year history of this sale starts Thursday, January 28thth!

SAVE THE DATE:

January 28th – February 7tthh

StockmFns Pavilion, Westerner Park, Red Deer eer

www.vellner.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

Red Deer Hospice Society Gala 2016 - only 100 tickets left. Red Deer Hospice Society is excited to announce that there are only 100 tickets left for sale to our 2016 Gala to be held Feb. 27th at The Sheraton Hotel. The response for our new format FUNHOUSE Gala has been tremendous. Once again Hospice supporters and the generous people of Red Deer are helping us soar to new heights for another successful Gala. This year Gala guests will be treated to a colorful Cirque style experience plus a four-course meal, host bar, raffles, live and silent auctions and dance. Tickets are $200 with a $100 tax receipt. Only 100 tickets are left so get yours today at www.reddeerhospice. com or by calling Red Deer Hospice directly at 403-309-4344.

Sponsorship opportunities also available by calling Hospice.

The 39th Annual Lacombe Fiddler’s Jamboree Jan. 31st at Lacombe Upper Elementary School, 5414 – 50 St. 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Adults $5, children 10 & under free.

Contact Laurie 403-358-4635.

The 11th Annual Spruce View Old Time Fiddle Jamboree and Dance runs Jan. 30th at the Spruce View Community Hall. Beef on a Bun Supper at 5:30 pm with fiddlers to perform from 7 to 9 p.m. Dance to follow. Door prizes. Adults: $20 advance sales, $25 at the door. Fiddlers and pre-school - FREE and net proceeds go to STARS. Sponsored by the Spruce View and District Lions. For more information, tickets or fiddlers pre-register by calling Darwin at 403 9862004 or Neil at 403 728-3798.

An Evening with Randi Boulton, Jan. 23rd at the Elnora Community Hall (dessert served at intermission) brought to you by the Elnora Agricultural Society.

Tickets at Jewell’s Groceries.

Adults $20 Children 6 - 10. $10.

Chances are someone you know will be affected by heart disease

RED DEER EXPRESS 17

or stroke this year. It could be your neighbour… a friend…a member of your family. It could even be you. That’s why the Heart and Stroke Foundation is looking for volunteers tocanvass during Heart Month this February. Funds collected are used to prevent heart disease and stroke, save lives andenhance support for survivors, families and caregivers, making a tangible difference in the life of thousands of Canadi-

Ross Wednesday evenings for a night of family comedy. The Hub is located at 4936 – Ross St. Come early if you want to go on stage and tell a few jokes. All ages and abilities arewelcome to watch or participate. Call 403-340-4869.

Fung Loy Kok Taoist Tai Chi™ Health Recovery Classes run Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Health Recovery classes aredesigned for people with chronic illness such as MS, arthritis, or those recovering

the Central Alberta area, who are interested in joining the Pipe Band. Anyone with piping or drumming experience, or if you would like to learnpiping or drumming, are asked to please contact us at 403-782-7183.

Practices are held at the Red Deer Legion on Tuesdays at 7 p.m.

Red Deer Action Group Society is seeking volunteer board members. In order to keep our programs running, we need

Heritage Lanes Comedy Zone Presents Feature Headliner Donovan Deschner!

Feature Headliner Harry Doupe!

Donovan Deschner Thursday January 21st at 8pm. Only $5

Harry Doupe Thursday January 28th at 8pm. Only $5

For more information on the performances visit Heritage Lanes Comedy Zone Facebook page!

Heritage Lanes

6200 67a St, Red Deer, AB ans.Be one of 100,000 enthusiastic volunteers across Canada. A few hours of your time this February will help save lives. Visitheartandstroke.ca slash help to sign up.

Sheraton Celebrity Dance Off 2016 will be held on April 16th. All proceeds will go towards burning the mortgage on Julietta’s Place, a home for women and their children fleeing family violence, operated by Women’s Outreach. Give the giftof the Sheraton Celebrity Dance Off this Christmas by purchasing a Gift Certificate towards a ticket to Red Deer’s premiergala. Contact Women’s Outreach (4101 54 Ave.) or call 403-347-2480.

Golden Circle dances – dances run from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Golden Circle Senior Resource Centre, 4620-47 A Ave. Black Velvet on Jan. 21st and Silver & Gold again perform on Jan. 28th. Admissionis $7 per person. Pooled lunch break from 8:30 – 9 p.m.

Everyone welcome. For more information call 403-341-4672, 403-347-6165 or 403-342-2875.

Join Jason Steele and other Red Deer comedians at The Hub on

403-309-6385

from injuries, surgery, or stroke and otherhealth issues. Come and experience the difference Tai Chi can make in your quality of life.

Port o’ Call Center #100, 4419 –50th Ave. Phone: 403-346-6772 or visit www.taoist.org. Please call for further information.

The Red Deer Celiac Support Group – need help with a gluten-free diet? Do you have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance?We meet the third Tuesday of the month at South Sobeys Coffee Lounge (2011 22 St.) from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Drop in or stayand visit. Free coffee. We share information and give support about issues pertaining to the gluten-free lifestyle, forexample symptoms, diagnosis, shopping, gluten-free products, cross contamination, recipes. Call Clarice at 403-3414351or Marlene at 403-346-6235.

Email reddeerceliacs@yahoo. ca. Check out www.celiac.ca.

Central Alberta Singles Club.

Call Elaine at 403-341-7653 or Bob at 403-304-7440.

The Red Deer Legion Pipe Band is actively recruiting experienced and inexperienced people from

boardmembers willing to commit two hours per month. If you think this would be a good opportunity, contact our office at 403-3431198 or email rdag@telus.net.

If you enjoy singing Glee Club style, but feel your skills are limited, please come and join our group of seniors who sing andplay for seniors as a gift of community spirit. The Tony Connelly Singers, in their 31st year of service, welcome anyone whomight enjoy singing out at seniors’ venues around the City. From September to June we prepare 10, one-hour oneprograms filled with oldies and newer music. We practice form 9:30 to 11 a.m. each Tuesday at the Downtown HouseSeniors Centre and present four to six sing outs each month. Our group is friendly, social and supportive.

Please join ournext practice or anytime. Call Shirley at 403-3425904 for bookings or Betty at 403346-7316 for more information.

Malanka, Ukrainian New Years Dinner & Dance runs Jan. 23rd at the Festival Hall Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. and entertainment to follow. There

will be a performance by the Red Deer Ukrainian Dance Club followed by a dance and live band - The Northern Kings.

Everyone welcome. Adult tickets are $45 each, children 12 and under tickets are $20 each. For tickets, email info@KvitkaRD. ca or call Mary at 403-392-7053 or Catherine at 403-391-4258.

Robbie Burns’ Night Supper – hosted by the Red Deer Legion Pipe Band on Jan. 23rd at the Royal Canadian Legion, Red Deer. Join us for cocktails from 6 to 7 p.m. followed by a traditional Robbie Burns supper: turkey, roastit bubbly jock wi’ stuffin intilt, champit tatties & mashed neeps, gravy, haggis & apple pie. There will be a cash bar. Special events include piping in of the Haggis, the Red Deer Legion Pipe Band, Highland Dancers and more. Tickets are available from any Pipe Band member or the front desk of the Red Deer Legion for $30 per person and should be purchased in advance. For more information, call Arnie MacAskill at 782-7183.

Red Deer & District Garden Club meeting Jan. 21st at Kerrywood Nature Center at 7 p.m.

Speaker Caroline Harris talking andslide show on Yukon and Alaska Wild flowers. More information on the web site at www.reddeergardenclub.ca.

The Red Deer Branch of the Alberta Genealogical Society is holding their monthly meeting on Jan. 27th at 7 p.m. at the LDS Church (Bower) 3002, 47 Ave. Red Deer.

Michael Dawe, renowned Red Deer historian, will be speaking on Researching the First World War.. Further information 403347-6311. New members and those interested always welcome.

Living Stones Church seniors’ luncheon runs in the Fellowship Hall on Jan. 27th with guest speaker Jessica Leman with ‘Helping Hands’. The event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Guest singers The New Song Band. $10 - pay at the door.

Impasto Duo has a Chamber Music Concert featuring piano and flute on Jan. 30th at 7:30 at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 4929 - 54 St. Silver collection.

For more information, contact Elizabeth at 403-347-2114.

18 RED DEER EXPRESS

Travel Memories - Feb. 3rd from 2-3:30 p.m. in the Red Deer Public Library, Downtown Branch, Snell Auditorium. Newfoundland: Wedding bells and Vikings; what could be more exciting!

Our speaker enjoyed many unusual historical locations while on her honeymoon last summer. Listen to our presenter and share your own travel adventures, while enjoying coffee or tea with us. If you plan to bring a group, please contact us. For more information, contact Donna Stewart or Priscilla at 403-346-2100.

The Red Deer River Watershed Alliance (RDRWA) will be holding a Watershed Ambassador Breakfast Feb. 19th between 8 and 9 a.m. at the RDRWA office (4918-59 St.) Come out and join the RDRWA for a delicious breakfast, and take in a very interesting & informative presentation. In addition to creating an Integrated Watershed Management Plan, the RDRWA decided to bring watershed management to life by engaging in a Social Lab. This hybrid approach seeks to leverage the benefits of a focused plan, complemented by a strong network of relationships, deep inquiry and adaptive implementation. Project Blue Thumb, Alberta’s first social innovation lab dedicated to improving water quality. The Project Blue Thumb lab team includes stakeholders from municipal and provincial government, the nonprofit sector, academia, forestry, and agriculture, who have come together with a common interest in protecting water quality. Project AWESOME (a Watershed Environmental System of Municipal Excellence is one of the prototype teams engaged in Project Blue Thumb and they will be speaking about their project. RSVP to info@ rdrwa.ca or call Kelly at 403340-7379 by noon on Feb. 17th.

Diamonds & Denim dinner & dance Feb. 12 at The Sheraton Hotel -Tuscany Room. Cocktails 6 p.m., dinner 7 p.m., dance with live band to follow. Diamond pendant raffle along with live and silent auction! Co-hosted

by Spinal Cord Injury Alberta &

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

The Leadership Centre of Central Alberta. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities contact Doug Manderville 403-341-5060 or Linda Wilson at 403-340-0324 Dance for the health of it – try it out – first lesson is free. It runs Mondays and Wednesdays. Sessions run from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. for 10 weeks. $120/week. Sessions will be held at the Clearview Community Centre (93 Cornett Dr.)

sion facilitated by a staff member will follow the film. Everyone is welcome. If you need more information, or if you plan to bring a group, contact Donna Stewart or Priscilla at 403-346-2100.

Duane Steele in Concert at the Golden Circle Senior Resource Centre Saturday March 5th.

Advance tickets go on sale Jan. 25th at the Golden Circle front desk and are $20 each. Doors

sing. Join us on Tuesday evening, rehearsals from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at Davenport Church of Christ (#68 DonlevyAve.) For information, call David at 403-342-1318 or email crozsmit@telusplanet. net. Visit www.harmonizers.ca.

Ladies Auxiliary meetings are held first Monday of every month at 7 p.m., Red Deer Branch #35, Alberta room. ParkinsonAlberta Education and Support Groups -

Call Connie at 403-396-1523 or email teamdance123@gmail.com.

Central Alberta Singles Club is sponsoring a dance Jan. 30th a the Innisfail Royal Canadian Legion Hall. Music by Leo Dumont. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Music starts at 8 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Call Elaine at 403-341-7653 or Bob at 403-304-7440. Also coming up - dances 0n Feb. 27th, March 12 (with Wise Choice), April 23rd with Triple Nickel, May 28th with Randy Hillman and Hot Spur.

June 18th with Flashback Freddie, July 9th with Runaway Train, July 23rd with Wise Choice, Aug. 27th with Randy Hillman and Hot Spur, Sept. 24th with Leo Dumont, Oct. 29th with Randy Hillman, Nov. 26th with Flashback Freddie and Dec. 17th with Randy Hillman.

Daytime Documentaries - Feb. 10th at 2 p.m. in the Red Deer Public Library, Downtown Branch, Snell Auditorium. February’s film: BABIES (2010): A look at one year in the life of four babies from around the world, from Mongolia, Namibia, San Francisco and Tokyo. Join us for this entertaining documentary and enjoy light refreshments with us. A discus-

open at 6:30pm with the concert starting at 7:00pm. For more information call 403-343-6074.

Heritage Lanes Comedy Zone has been running for two years in Red Deer. Every Thursday in The Heritage Lanes Lounge weconvert it into a comedy club where we feature different headliners and up and coming local comics.

The show was startedas an open mic to develop the comedy scene in Red Deer. In the past those interested in doing stand up had to drive to Edmonton or Calgary, now Red Deer has more than one open mic for young budding comics to work on their material. Thelocal comedy scene is growing and we are always looking for new comics.

Real Men Sing Barbershop! The Wild Rose Harmonizers Barbershop Chorus is a chorus for males of all ages who love to singfour-part a cappella harmony.

We are a proud member of the Barbershop Harmony society providing entertainment atseniors’ lodges, hospitals and numerous community and private functions throughout the year. No experience is required,just a love to

Parkinson Alberta offers groups for persons with Parkinson Disease, familymembers & caregivers at the following Central Alberta locations: Red Deer, Lacombe, Innisfail, Olds, Three Hills & Castor.Information 403-346-4463. www.parkinsonalberta.ca.

Living Faith Lutheran Church - welcomes everyone to our Sunday Worship Service at 10 a.m.

We offer Traditional andContemporary Service with Holy Communion. Services held at Bethany CollegeSide Red Deer College. For more information,contact Ralph at 403-347-9852.

Scottish Country Dancing has classes held weekly at Knox Presbyterian Church and go from September to May. A certified teacher comes regularly from Edmonton to conduct the class. SCD is not Highland dancing but is more like square dancing.No partner needed, no need to be Scottish. For more information, call 403-343-0975 or 403-347-0907 or visitwww.reddeerscottishcountrydancers.weebly.com.

Dance for the health of it. Working in a team, learn easy dance steps while enjoying a variety of music.

Everyone is welcome– families families, couples, solos and teens. No dance experience necessary.

Twenty-four sessions for $120.

Maximum 24participants. Sessions run Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Contact Connie at 403-396-1523.

Do you love to sing? Join our adult choir, the Red Deer Chamber Singers, where you will enjoy an environment of positivelearning and quality music.

Practices are at Sunnybrook United Church, 12 Stanton St. at 7 p.m. Contact Sadie at 403347-5166 for more information.

Love to sing? Hearts of Harmony, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, is an a cappella chorus for women of all ages who love to sing and harmonize. Rehearsals are Monday nights from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Davenport Church of Christ (68Donlevy Ave.) Join us any Monday night, you will be welcomed. For the month of September the group will host an openhouse every Monday. Experience the joyful sound of four-part harmony with a group of wonderful women. For moreinformation, call Nancy at 403-357-8240, or our director, Sheryl @403-7424218 or check out our web site atwww.heartsofharmony.ca.

Learn to foxtrot, two-step, polka, waltz, and more. Town and Country Dance Club has started dance lessons. A Step AboveBasic at 7 p.m. followed by Basic Social Dance at 8 p.m.

Classes run for six weeks in Red Deer. Only $35 per person. Formore information and to pre-register call Doug or Doris at 403-728-3333 or email doris@airenet.com.

Sit and Be Fit is held every Wednesday from 10:45 – 11:30 a.m. There is a drop in fee of $2. Whist is held on the second andfourth Friday of each month starting at 1 p.m. There is a fee of $2. Bridge singles meet on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. There is afee of $2. Bridge partners meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

There is a fee of $3. Golden Circle 4620-47 A Ave. 403-343-6074.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 19

STARS annual lottery launches

BY JENNA SWAN COURTESY OF THE SYLVAN LAKE NEWS Without the STARS Air Ambulance, Carla Schneider of Bentley wouldn’t have been standing at the head of a crowded room sharing her story last Thursday morning in Sylvan Lake at the grand opening of the STARS Lottery dream home built by Falcon Homes.

During the grand opening of the home located at 4293 Ryders Ridge Boulevard, Schneider told of how she had been in a life altering motor vehicle accident in 2004.

At the time she had been driving a vehicle full of paint. She recalls the day well, detailing how her vehicle was t-boned, rolling two and a half times before landing upside down. In turn, vaporizing the paint she had been transporting - leaving her literally drowning in two and a half litres of paint.

Following an hour and half of emergency workers struggling to free her from the vehicle, she was flown by a STARS Air Ambulance to a hospital in Edmonton.

“I had a grand mal seizure and actually flatlined and had to be resuscitated they knew I would never survive ground transportation to Edmonton. STARS was called,” said Schneider to attendees at the grand opening, holding back tears as she continued.

“They kept me unconscious during the entire journey - because of the amount of paint I had inhaled they were very concerned my brain was not getting enough oxygen so they kept me ventilated to keep the oxygen going to my lungs the entire ride.”

She added STARS also had a piece of equipment on the helicopter that kept her eyes open, continuously flushing the paint from them to try to save her vision.

Due to the two and a half litres of paint she had inhaled and a brain injury, she suffered the loss of her right eye as well as suffering from injuries to her neck, back and shoulder. Following her accident she had many challenges to overcome, but Schneider says she thanks STARS daily for saving her life.

“I can honestly tell you - I would not be here. I would not be able to look at you if it wasn’t for STARS. STARS is a life giving organization,” she said. “Tickets are $25.

How many times can you say $25 saved a life? Your donations and your support of STARS really does save lives.”

The furnished grand prize home in Sylvan Lake where Schneider shared her STARS story is one of four throughout the province and is worth over $945,000.

More than 3,200 prizes are available this

LIFE SAVING SERVICE - Former STARS patient and current STARS advocate, Carla Schneider, visited the grand opening of the STARS Lottery dream home along with her service dog, Benjamin. Schneider shared her story of how STARS saved her life. Jenna Swan/Sylvan Lake News year and are valued at $5.6 million. Other prizes include a ‘home away from home’ truck-trailer combo valued at $141,503, as well as a car, vacation, cash package which includes a 2016 Audi TT Quatro Coupe and seven nights for two adults in London, England with $5,000 cash.

During the grand opening last week, Jeffery Quick, chief financial officer and executive vice president of STARS Foundation, explained in 2014/15 STARS flew 1,839 missions.

This includes six to Sylvan Lake, 68 to Red Deer, 36 to Rocky Mountain House, 19 to Olds, 18 to Stettler and 17 to Ponoka. He added Central Alberta is one of their most flown to areas and also one of the largest supporters of the lottery.

The annual lottery raises funds for the air ambulance service, with tickets set at $25 and which are available at the dream home in Sylvan Lake or online at www. starslotteryalberta.ca. editor@sylvanlakenews.com

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2 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 21

22 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

POLICE BRIEFS

ROBBERY SUSPECT ARRESTED

On Jan. 11th, Sylvan Lake RCMP responded to a robbery in progress at Bayshore Market.

Witnesses were able to provide police with a suspect vehicle and direction of travel. RCMP located the suspect vehicle and arrested the lone occupant. A search of the vehicle incidental to his arrest yielded evidence that supported several robbery offences that have been committed in Sylvan Lake over the last month.

Aaron Mays, 24, of Sylvan Lake, has been charged with seven counts of robbery, seven counts of wearing a disguise in the commission of an offence and two counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

WANTED MAN ARRESTED On Jan. 12th, Blackfalds RCMP surrounded a

by Erin Fawcett

residence in Blackfalds, in the area of East Point Drive and Parkway Drive.

Blackfalds RCMP with the assistance of the RCMP Emergency Response Team contained the residence, occupied by a male, who was considered to be armed and dangerous.

All residents in the area of East Point Drive and Parkway Drive were advised to remain inside of their residences until the situation was resolved. Andrew Joseph Snow of Sylvan Lake, was taken into custody without incident in relation to outstanding warrants for his arrest for attempted murder.

SUSPECT SOUGHT AFTER CHILD LURING Red Deer RCMP are looking for a man with a gold tooth after he followed a 13-year-old girl

on Jan. 11th and then offered her a ride home.

The incident occurred at approximately 3:15 p.m. when the girl boarded a bus at Sorensen Station transit terminal. The man did not approach her at the terminal, but got on the same bus as her and then exited the bus again when she exited in the area of Viscount Drive and 22nd St. in the Vanier Woods neighbourhood.

The man then offered her a ride home, stating that his vehicle was parked nearby. The girl refused and made her way home safely; the man did not follow her at that point.

The suspect is described as Caucasian, about 50-years-old, 5’8” tall with a stocky build. He is bald with brown eyes, is missing a front tooth, and also has a gold tooth. He spoke in a deep, raspy voice and was wearing a puffy black jacket with a hood, baggy, dirty jeans and work boots.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-343-5575.

INVESTIGATION CONTINUES INTO ROBBERIES Red Deer RCMP are investigating three failed robbery attempts at three different convenience stores last night between 11 p.m. and 11:45 p.m. on Dec. 30th by a man wearing a black garbage bag wrapped around his head or a black hoodie.

The suspect entered the Fas Gas at 4023 50th St. at 11 p.m., demanded cash and threatened staff. He did not produce a weapon. When he

was told there was no cash in the till, he left on foot, heading south on 41st Ave. The suspect was described as a Caucasian male, 20-25 years old, wearing a black garbage bag over his head and a black jacket over a black hoodie.

At 11:15 p.m., a man entered the 7 Eleven located at 3803 40th Ave. and demanded cash. The staff member refused and said he was hitting the panic button. The suspect then attempted unsuccessfully to grab lottery tickets but left empty handed, heading southbound on foot along 40th Ave. The suspect was described as approximately 5’5” tall, about 150-180 lbs. with a stocky build, wearing a dark coloured hoodie and a black garbage bag over his face.

Next, RCMP received a call that a man attempted to rob the Express 24 on Erickson Drive at 11:40 p.m. A man carrying a tire iron entered the store and demanded money. The staff member refused and struck at the man with a broom. The suspect left empty handed and was seen going southbound on foot along Erickson Drive.

The suspect was described as a shorter man, approximately 5’8” tall, wearing a black hooded sweater pulled tightly over his face.

At this point, RCMP believe the failed robberies were likely committed by the same suspect. Police continue to investigate and will issue updates as the investigation continues and more information becomes available.

If you have information, contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-343-5575.

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Create your re befo MyCity profile and March 6, 2016 in a w be entered to rds a w $100 credit to Red f your City o ill* Deer Utility B

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 23

I Am a Kind Man seeks to create change in community

BY KALISHA MENDONSA RED DEER EXPRESS Through January the Red Deer Express is publishing a series involving several community groups and how the inquiry into missing and murdered Aboriginal women affects them moving forward. Interviews with local Elders, community supports and City staff will be included to also help examine what the inquiry means for Red Deer as a whole.

When addressing the issue of missing and murdered Aboriginal women, one must remember that men are affected by this violence and loss as well.

During Walking With Our Sisters, there were several community groups that came together to support each other.

One of those groups was a men’s circle that addressed the losses of men in our community and how the missing and murdered women affect their lives. That men’s circle eventually led to the official community launch of I Am A Kind Man (IAAKM) in November 2015.

Through the I Am A Kind Man process, program facilitators like Leslie Stonechild are looking to create a change in our community with attitudes of men towards themselves, each other and the women in their lives.

“I feel very honoured to be a part of this.

It’s very sacred and it’s very important,” Stonechild said.

“I feel a great load of responsibility simply because the teaching to be a kind man is an old teaching. It’s something that is being brought back from the way we used to live a long time ago.”

Stonechild is passionate about the cause of changing attitudes in the community.

In early 2015, he attended meetings with members of Friendship Centres across the province to learn about the IAAKM program. The information he received was based in Ontario, so he and the other Friendship Centre representatives worked to adjust the curriculum to fit Alberta cultural practices. He explained that Alberta has more ties to Cree culture, whereas the Ontario program was based more on Ojibwe culture.

There are several main objectives for Stonechild and the other administrators to demonstrate through the program.

“One of the things that I’ll do as part of my goals is to deliver the I Am A Kind Man workshop, which will be between six to 10 weeks. I’m also going to do some work with engaging the youth. We have a pretty vibrant youth program here - the Aboriginal Youth Program for Success. I want to present the program to the youth

SEEKING CHANGE - Leslie Stonechild is one of several program facilitators and community leaders who are working hard to bring the I Am A Kind Man program to Red Deer. The program officially launched in November, with a workshop, youth program and community engagement program in the works.

Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express and hopefully get them interested in it,” he said.

“The third portion will be some sort of community engagement, either through a campaign or another project. We are currently working on ideas for that. I’ve had some relations with domestic violence committees in the community. A lot of those representatives came out to the campaign launch. There’s been quite a bit of interest in the program from correctional centres and the general public, as well.”

Stonechild described the teachings and practices of the program as a way to wake up the community. He referred to a general awakening in perspectives and against ignorance. He said this will continue to be a vivid theme as the program grows. ”I like to use the term awakening when I talk about the program so people will realize what it’s really about. We’re wak-

ing up the spirit of individuals so that they can start recognizing the healing that needs to take place. That’s an important part of waking up,” Stonechild explained.

“It starts with process of education and knowledge. Once you get those, you start making healthier choices - you start having a different attitude and different perspective. That’s what this is really all about.

“There is an awakening to the change that is happening with our people. People are willing to come and listen and to hear.

The program incorporates all of that. It means waking up these young men and

helping them break the cycle of violence and trauma and abuse. At the end of the program, hopefully these men will be more educated and encouraged enough to speak up and take some action.”

During Walking With Our Sisters (WWOS) in the summer of 2015, several community groups formed to support each other through the process of hosting the installation.

Stonechild said members of the group were looking for ways to continue the education, support and change that was being developed in the men’s circle. He said he hopes carrying on this work will affect change in the community going forward.

He added the IAAKM program is not only for Aboriginal or Indigenous men, but for all men of the community.

“We recognize the violence doesn’t just come from our people - it comes from all people,” he said.

“However, hopefully our people will get some energy from this. It’s about waking up, renewing, reclaiming, going back, taking it back - all of these adjectives and verbs of actually doing something to stop the cycle of violence. That’s what I’ve heard the Elders say - they want us to do something. They want us to make something happen.”

He added the end goal of the workshop and youth programs is to educate community members, and encourage them to continue to develop change in their community.

“This City for some reason used to have a huge reputation for being intolerant.

You fastforward over the 30 years that I’ve been here and there is still some prejudice and ignorance and intolerance, but there is beauty in what’s happened with our community,” Stonechild said.

“Look at Walking With Our Sisters - that proves this change is happening. We have to keep hope that things will keep moving forward.”

He said the group is powerful and can bring up some pain, but he hopes it is worth it in the end. The group meets at the Red Deer Native Friendship Centre and can be contacted via the centre reception and web site. kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

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24 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

CITY BRIEFS ICE SURFACES AVAILABLE Booking applications are now being accepted for groups wanting to book Red Deer’s indoor ice surfaces for the upcoming 2016/2017 season.

Community associations, sport groups, companies, and the public are encouraged to book their practices and special events. Ice at the Collicutt Centre, G.H. Dawe Community Centre, Kinex Arena and Kinsmen Community Arena are available for booking.

Applications will be accepted until Feb. 1st and can be filled out online at www. reddeer.ca/recreation-and-culture/facility-and-park-rentals/ For more information, email facilitybookings@reddeer.ca.

RED DEERIANS CHALLENGED IN LITERACY INITIATIVE Red Deer Public Library has accepted the Read for 15 literacy challenge in celebration of Family Literacy Day, Jan. 27th.

The public is being asked to report 15 minutes of reading in a friendly competition with Rimbey, Sylvan Lake, Camrose and Stony Plain Public Libraries.

Readers can log their reading efforts Jan. 27th, from midnight to midnight, and help ensure Red Deer takes the top prize in the Read for

15 Literacy Day Challenge.

Participants can submit read times various ways via social media, on the Library web site, in-person, by email (readfor15@rdpl.org) or by phoning any Branch over the 24bhour period.

To submit read times by phone, call the Downtown Branch at 403-346-4576, the Timberlands Branch at 403755-1133 or the Dawe Branch at 403-341-3822.

Online submissions can also be submitted at www.rdpl.org or via social media on RDPL’s facebook page, and on Twitter and Instagram using hashtag #readfor15rdpl.

SHERATON CELEBRITY DANCE OFF It’s time to get your groove on Red Deer! Tickets for this year’s premier dance gala, the Sheraton Celebrity Dance Off 2016, are on sale at Women’s Outreach, in person at 4101 54th Ave. in Red Deer, online at www.womensoutreach.ca or by calling 403-347-2480.

Christine Moore, event cochair, says, “Having worked closely with Women’s Outreach, our partner charity, the 2016 Dance Off will definitely wow Red Deer. From the décor and food, to the dancing and its judges, it will be a classy evening.”

Moore adds, “Once again, Calgary band Dr. Zeuss and

by Mark Weber the Blue Who’s will close the evening with its signature entertainment.”

This year’s Sheraton Celebrity Dance Off will be held on April 16th starting at 6 p.m.

It will feature celebrity dancers Attorney David Brandt from AltaLaw LLP, Cowgirl Education Assistant Dusty Daines, Bonee Gregg from the Breathing Room Yoga Studio and Cafe, Dr. Pat Higgins from Deer Park Pet Hospital, Coach Ken King from Red Deer College, RCMP Constable Charlotte Rockwell, stylist and salon owner Hermes Salas and Tammy Schlamp owner of Spreedpro Signs in Red Deer, all competing for the much coveted Mirror Ball Award.

Moore notes, “The Sheraton Celebrity Dance Off brings together the professional dance community, community leaders, the business community, and many talented volunteers. We absolutely expect it to be a sold-out event. Tickets will go quickly!”

The 2016 volunteer cabinet consists of Deanna Black, Natalie Brooks, Jeanne Davis (co-chair), Edie Hiebert, Moore (co‐chair), Gea Phagoo, Duane Rolheiser, Wendy Silvernagle and Judy Sutter.

MONTAIR AVIATION EXPANDS TRAINING TO RED DEER Montair Aviation has announced that following a

review of several airports in Western Canada it has selected Red Deer Airport to expand training facilities and operations. Red Deer will be Montair’s second training location in Western Canada, to supplement its existing location and head office already in Pitt Meadows, B.C. In Phase I of the company’s expansion plans, right aircraft will be located at Red Deer Airport, growing to 15+ aircraft within two to three years.

Montair will initially train 60100 full-time airline cadets annually while employing 20 – 30 full time staff including several management positions. In addition, Montair will lease a full military barrack building and commercial kitchen in the Harvard Business Park which has been left underutilized since the departure of the DND Cadet program from Central Alberta in 2014.

With Montair planning to begin operations at the airport in May 2016, a taxiway will be provided to connect the academy’s hangar and apron to the airfield. This taxiway will facilitate the movement of aircraft from the private hangar and apron to the existing taxiways and runway system and will enable the airport to accommodate the significant increase in aviation activity expected in the short term. The taxiway is expected to be fully operational by May 2016.

Church Services We invite you to join us on Sundays at 9am, 11am or 6pm Living Stones Church, 2020 40th Avenue, RD

NON-PROFIT MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATE

CALLING ALL LOCAL MUSICIANS

As a way to meet the growing need for quality training in the non-profit sector, Red Deer College now offers a Non-Profit Management Certificate through its School of Continuing Education. Working closely with program donors, Peter and Kathy Lacey, as well as a diverse cross-section of individuals from the Central Alberta non-profit community, this Certificate is designed to provide those working in the non-profit sector with the fundamental management and leadership skills that will enable them to contribute to the continued growth of that sector.

For more information, visit http://www.rdc.ab.ca/continuing-education or contact the School of Continuing Education at 403-356-4900.

WATERSHED ALLIANCE BREAKFAST SOON The Red Deer River Watershed Alliance (RDRWA) will be holding a Watershed Ambassador Breakfast Feb. 19th between 8 and 9 a.m. at the RDRWA office (4918-59th St.) Come out and join the RDRWA for a delicious breakfast, and take in a very interesting and informative presentation. In addition to creating an Integrated Watershed Management Plan, the RDRWA decided to bring watershed management to life by engaging in a Social Lab. This hybrid approach seeks to leverage the benefits of a focused plan, complemented by a strong network of relationships, deep inquiry and adaptive implementation.

RSVP to info@rdrwa.ca or call Kelly at 403-340-7379 by noon on Feb. 17th.

The City of Red Deer is looking for local artists who want to have their original songs recorded and used for a series of promotional videos about the community we live in and love.

“We are producing a series of videos in 2016 to highlight the identity of Red Deer and our citizens, and we want to be able to showcase the great local talent we have available to us,” said Julia Harvie-Shemko, director of communications and strategic planning.

“We are looking for a song that not only aligns with our videos, but that speak to our residents in a way that only local talent can.”

Contest entrants must live or have once lived in Central Alberta for a period longer than one year. They are required to write and submit one or more of their original songs to be used for the videos, and they do not have to be professionally recorded.

The winner of the contest will have the opportunity to professionally record their song at a local recording studio, retain the use of their professionally recorded song for personal and business needs, and also receive recognition for the song being used for the videos.

“We are excited to hear what Red Deerians have to offer us,” said Harvie-Shemko. Interested local musicians must submit their original song(s) by Feb. 15th at 4:30 p.m. Songs can be submitted by email to communications@ reddeer.ca, or dropped off at City Hall, 4914 48th Ave. – Attention: Communications. For more information about this contest, and a complete list of contest guidelines, visit www. reddeer.ca/identity.

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RED DEER EXPRESS 25

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Overeaters Anonymous tackles the deeper issues

BY MARK WEBER RED DEER EXPRESS Getting to the root of what drives a person to overeat is the focus of Overeaters Anonymous. The group is a 12-step program of recovery for individuals experiencing difficulty with overeating.

Overeaters Anonymous meets Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at Mighty Fortress Lutheran Church, 51 Alford Ave. No dues or fees are required. For more, check out www. oa.org, or phone Phyl at 403-347-4188.

According to the organization’s web site, Overeaters Anonymous (OA) offers a program of recovery from compulsive overeating, binge eating and other eating disorders using the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of OA. The group was founded in Los Angeles back in 1960.

Since then, it has grown to more than 7,000 meetings in more than 80 countries - about 54,000 members.

Meetings and other tools provide a fellowship of experience, strength and hope where members respect one another’s anonymity. OA is also not just about weight loss, weight gain, maintenance, obesity or diets. It addresses physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. It is not a religious organization and does not promote any particular diet.

Barb (not her real name) has been with the group for 21 years.

“I keep coming back because of the support it gives me,” she explains. “Having the support of the group not only helped me to lose weight and to change my life but also to stay on track.”

She has lost about 40 lbs during the course of her time with OA. “I always knew I had a problem with food since I was about 14 years old,” she said, adding she struggled with bulimia as well as compulsive overeating years back. “There’s just something about a group of people who understand what you are going through that’s very powerful. It’s made a huge difference in my life.

“Our culture also reinforces overeating - it totally does. Look at all the junk food we have available to us now. People used to just eat three meals a day. Now, it’s about snacking all day long. Every meeting we have there is food, everything we go to at church there is food.”

But of course she added that it’s still up to the individual to make wise choices.

“It’s about what do I do with this,” said Mary, who became acquainted with the group through attending a similar one with a friend previously. “What part do I have control over?”

She signed on to the local group in 2008 and has attended since, finding the support an essential part of her road to success. Mary had been through numerous diets, but found in OA the key to getting to the root of why she opted to overeat in the first place.

With OA, there are no prescribed diet plans – members are encouraged to consult with their doctor or design their own means of safely losing weight. But again that’s really not the key focus.

Dealing with an addictive behaviour is.

The healthy impacts of that will follow.

Ultimately, Mary, who likens the weight

“I KEEP COMING BACK BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORT IT GIVES ME. HAVING THE SUPPORT OF THE GROUP NOT ONLY HELPED ME TO LOSE WEIGHT AND TO CHANGE MY LIFE BUT ALSO TO STAY ON TRACK.” BARB

loss battle to a journey more than a specific destination, lost about 50 lbs.

“It’s about emotional eating, about what’s going in my life - whatever about life is getting in the way and how food can be my go-to,” she said. “It comforts me. So I keep coming back to the group because it’s amazing how when someone else tells their story and you’re thinking, oh yes and nodding. You realize how your crazy thoughts about food are quite similar.”

One of the key aspects with the 12 steps of course is looking to a higher power for help. That includes admitting that on your own, you are helpless over compulsions to overeat.

“It’s a spiritual group primarily,” added Barb. “Food is a symptom, but the ways

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we really need to change include the way we think, and the ways we manage our lives.”

Even signing up is a major step, as others may downplay your struggle with weight or insist willpower should be enough to handle it.

As the women point out, willpower may indeed be all that some people need to tap into. But for others, the urge to overeat is way beyond that. They’ve also become disillusioned with the common diet and weight gain cycle – never dealing with what compels them to turn to food in the first place. Statistics show that the vast majority of diets fail and that weight gain tends to only intensify.

Another false notion is that folks can go on a diet, lose the weight, and resume their normal lives.

OA recognizes weight loss is part of an ongoing journey of accountability and personal restoration, said Mary.

Each month, members explore the steps and traditions of OA in detail. Discussions on related topics are included through the month as well, and folks are free to share or not.

Each member can also team up with a sponsor if they wish – another OA member to keep in touch with through the week. These conversations and the weekly meetings offer a profound sense of encouragement when the occasional stumble happens.

“You have to constantly keep up on it,” said Barb. “The point is to keep on it.

“It’s a process - it’s a lifelong process.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

RED DEER EXPRESS 27

CrossFit can be a benefit for all ages

BY ZACHARY CORMIER RED DEER EXPRESS There are many ways to stay active as you age. You might, for example, take up a sport or start going for a jog every morning.

But there is another way that someone over the age of 55 can get up and get moving while improving their strength and balance at the same time.

“CrossFit is a general strength and conditioning philosophy. By the book it’s functional movements done at varying intensities for varying times,” said Thomas Patterson, a personal trainer and CrossFit instructor at Ignite Fitness in Red Deer.

Patterson has a diploma in Kinesiology from Red Deer College and is a certified level one CrossFit instructor.

“The great thing about CrossFit is that it’s scaleable for pretty much anyone and we actually have a very wide age group that comes to the gym already,” he said, adding CrossFit is done by people of all

ages from kids all the way up to senior citizens.

According to Patterson, all the movements in CrossFit can be scaled to fit an individual’s fitness level and personal abilities, so someone in their early 60s can participate in a class with people who is half their age and still keep up with the group.

“Age is definitely a factor that comes into play, but it’s not really a limiting factor. It’s just something that needs to be taken into consideration with the intensity of the workouts,” he said.

For example, if the class is doing back barbell squats, that movement could be scaled down to squatting with no weight or sitting down on a box and standing back up, because the weight is not what’s important, it’s the movement that accompanies it.

One of the good things about CrossFit, he said, is how much variation there are in the workouts.

“It’s a highly varied program, which is a benefit because you get a wide variety of movements, which helps build a bal-

anced body in terms of strengthening the whole body.”

Patterson added traditional weightlifting can lead to imbalances unless the person is very careful about how they plan their workouts.

“It’s also a little more time consuming,” he said in regards to traditional weightlifting.

According to Patterson, most CrossFit classes are only an hour long, with only about half an hour of that focused on the actual workout and the other half focused on mobility and core work.

“It’s very efficient, usually very quick.

There are some workouts that get a little bit longer but those are more the endurance type workouts.”

The mobility portion is something that can be very beneficial for seniors as well, especially because the compound movements in CrossFit can help identify areas where the individual is weak in terms of both strength and mobility.

“That’s a huge one, I think, for seniors just in terms of hip and back health

because a lot of chronic back pain, back disease is due to tightness in the hips and lower back, so by doing these movements you can identify where you’re tight and then you can also then address it by applying corrective exercises and mobility work, which we do a lot of.”

Finally, CrossFit also helps avoid some of the overuse injuries that can be common among runners.

“Any program or any sport is going to have overuse injuries. You do the same movement over and over and over again and you wear down the connective tissue and the joints if you’re not recovering properly. With CrossFit, because of its varied component, you don’t have that much repetition. So the variety is a huge component just in terms of minimizing the risk of overuse injuries.”

So if you’re someone who’s looking for a way to stay active as they age, or even just keep up and moving during the long winter months, why not give CrossFit a try. You just find that you’ll enjoy it. zcormier@reddeerexpress.com

Ensuring you have a meaningful and mindful 2016 The end of a year and beginning of the next is often a time for reflection. Time to consider both good and bad from the year that’s been and to plan for changes and good intentions for the year to come.

Along with reflecting back and planning for the future, the New Year is also a time for resolutions.

This year I have decided to forgo the traditional ones such as losing weight and exercising more.

Instead, I have decided to live each day and to cherish each moment as if it were the last. I don’t mean for this to sound morbid.

What I mean is that I will take on even the simplest and tedious tasks with more appreciation. I will feel more gratitude that I

Sara

DIMERMAN have the ability to do what I am doing - both mentally and physically - and will treasure the moment and not take it for granted.

I have my youngest sister, Alison, to thank for bringing this realization to the forefront of my conscious mind recently. She was telling me about an interaction between herself and her 15-year-old daughter: tired after a long day at school, my niece approached my sister with

a request to wash her hair.

My sister jumped at the opportunity. As she lathered her hair with shampoo, massaged her head and washed out the soapy suds, she spent extra time at something she had previously rushed through and taken for granted. So much so, that her daughter asked her to hurry it up. After she wrapped the towel around her daughter’s head and offered to comb out her hair (my niece declined this), my sister felt a lump in her throat and a tear in her eye as she remembered a time when washing her daughter’s hair was considered a laborious chore rather than the labour of love she felt that day.

Little did she know that

this opportunity to connect with her daughter in such a nurturing way would be considered rare years ago when she longed for her youngest child to hurry up and be more independent.

This led my sister and me into a discussion about whether we might have treasured or experienced the last time we engaged in an activity differently if we knew it was the last.

What If I had known that the scrambled egg I made my dad and fed to him during his last conscious

hours a couple of months ago would have been the last thing he ate?

Would I have made the egg with even more tender loving care? What if I had known that the last time I snuggled in bed with my daughter as she fell asleep would be the last time she allowed me to do so?

Would I have lingered a little bit longer, as opposed to counting down the minutes before I could go back to my own bed?

What if I had known that the last time I fed my beloved pet would have been the final dish of food I put

on his mat before he refused to eat and declined rapidly?

The bottom line is to try not to take things for granted or to rush through life. As the New Year begins, savour each moment, appreciate every task profound or menial - and linger just a little bit longer before moving on.

Wishing you and yours a meaningful, mindful 2016!

Sara Dimerman is a psychologist, author and mom to two daughters. For more advice, connect at www.helpmesara.com or on Twitter @ helpmesara.

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28 RED DEER EXPRESS

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

Going into 2016 with a fresh perspective Upon reflection of 2015, I felt myself being torn between feeling both positive and utterly disappointed in various aspects of the global community.

I was saddened by countless mass murders in the United States. I witnessed for the first time the poverty of a third-world country with my own eyes. I watched day after day on social media feeds where people would spew ignorance and demeaning statuses and photos towards refugees, minorities, the government and global community.

To sharply juxtapose this, I also became aware of the beauty of my community, filled with people willing to help one another. I was pleased with the enlightening of several peers who became more interested in global events than getting drunk.

I followed people around the world as they stood up for their beliefs and encouraged one another in education, poverty reduction and activism.

I have decided to share the positively that I saw in 2015, rather than to dwell on the negatives. The negatives are so much more easily accessible and I think people need to be reminded of the good.

What I choose to share is my new understanding of our community, and the good I see in people.

As a reporter, I was able to engage with and follow up on the development of several agencies in our community that sprouted in 2015. Two groups, 100 Men Who Care and 100 Women Who Care, started from nothing and grew into wonderful agencies. They are the result of

Kalisha

MENDONSA like-minded people coming together to do positive work in our community.

The groups made an impact to several important community initiatives, as well as a local family in need. The 100 Men/ Women groups are a shining example of what a little effort and good intention can do.

Additionally my role as a reporter brought me to engaging with the many people in our community who brought Walking With Our Sisters to the City. I’m extremely grateful for the people who enlightened me to the project, and who continue to inspire me to raise awareness.

The travelling installation was a commemorative display to honour the thousands of missing and murdered Indigenous women in our nation - not exactly a cheerful topic.

However, through a horrible topic came awareness, community support, education and a passion that grew across the country to find justice for these women and their families. A national inquiry has begun to address the issue of these missing and murdered women, and several groups in our community have come together to address the issues that cause women to go missing and be murdered.

Through terrible circumstances, people

came together to support each other and begin to find answers. That’s a powerful thing. I’m glad to see the passion in my community for justice and education and am eager to see the results.

In my personal life, I began to volunteer a little more with a group called Line of Hope - Red Deer Style! This group brought several things into my life - I became aware of our vulnerable populations and the issues they face. I met amazing, kind, dedicated people who bring me joy each week that we volunteer together. I have gotten to know some of Red Deer’s homeless and vulnerable population, and am more eager than ever to help.

For me though, the most important thing I gained from this group is experience and friendships. I met a few people

who have changed and influenced my life for the better, opening my eyes to new experiences and to the reality that dedicated people can make a difference in other people’s lives.

I also joined many people from Line of Hope on a humanitarian trip to the Dominican Republic. That experience opened my eyes to other forms of dire poverty, gave me insight into what happiness means to others and reminded me to be grateful each day for what I have, and also what I can give to others.

With all the negativity in the world, 2015 was a year of powerful growth in my life. I’m aware of the uncertainty our world and community faces, but I’m excited to see what I can learn from it. kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

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RED DEER EXPRESS 29

ENTERTAINMENT Saskatoon’s The Steadies to play Red Deer this week

BY MARK WEBER RED DEER EXPRESS Saskatoon-based rockers The Steadies are gearing up for a show in Red Deer Jan. 22nd at Fratters and March 6th at Bo’s with The Wailers. A new CD is also in the works, set for release in early April. So local fans will be able to hear tunes from that project during the coming shows as well.

“All of my energy is going into this project,” said frontman/singer/bassist Earl Pereira, who is also a co-founder of the multi-platinum Canadian rock band Wide Mouth Mason. He and fellow band members guitarist Justin ‘Juice’ Lee and drummer Lexie Miller have been writing tunes for the CD for the past year, and it’s been a joy to see it all take shape.

“It’s been the most collaborative thing that I’ve done since my early Wide Mouth Mason days,” he said. “It’s a pretty great feeling - it’s fun. It’s always been what I’ve imagined being in a band is all about - touring together, having a good time and enjoying each other.”

They’ve taken on much of the producer duties as well, as Pereira has years of experience in crafting tunes plus Lee is a certified engineer as well.

That said, they are bringing in some top folks in the biz to lend a hand. “Sometimes you need that extra set of ears. I’m good at working on other people’s stuff because I bring a fresh perspective, but when you’ve lived with your own stuff for so long it gets harder,” he said.

In describing their sound, The Steadies take the popular Top 40 sound and mix it with rocksteady and reggae influences, creating what they’ve dubbed ‘island rock’.

“The styles we fuse together create something different and new.”

The new disc carries on the signature sound of The Steadies but they are open to the authentic sense of evolution that is an intrinsic part of the creative process.

“I don’t say no to any ideas but you don’t want to go too overboard - especially when you performing it as a trio. You don’t want people to say, ‘That doesn’t sound right’.”

Ultimately it’s a bit of a balancing act between trying new things and sticking to what sets The Steadies apart.

He noted a common theme amongst the material for the new disc touches on finding the light in the darkness. “It’s pretty deep - it digs a little deeper lyrically and emotionally but it’s still got that fun Steadies danceable, singable sound. There’s

ON TOUR - Saskatoon-based band The Steadies play Fratters on Jan. 22nd and pop back into town on March 6th to perform at Bo’s. A new CD is expected in early April. photo submitted just a lot more depth to the lyrics.”

Their most recent release, 2013’s Starcity Shakedown, marked an ode to the band’s rocksteady roots and continued to build on the band’s style. Starcity Shakedown also marked their first release since the 2012 self-titled EP which garnered a top 50 hit in Canada and was nominated for a Western Canadian Music Award.

The Steadies play upwards of 100 shows each year, making them one of the busiest bands in Saskatchewan. They have headlined numerous festivals, showcased at industry events and have shared the stage with Ziggy Marley, The Roots, Blue Rodeo, The Wailers and more.

Pereira got his rock pedigree as a founding member of the aforementioned band Wide Mouth Mason, who had two gold records and landed three Juno nominations and a host of other accolades and awards.

His love for music came along early, as his formative years were deeply influenced by various musicians and musical genres. “If you know people from the

Philippines, you know that they love to sing,” he added with a laugh. “Everyone in my family can sing, and sing well and play an instrument.

“Music was always playing - it was always around,” he said. “So growing up we were almost like a family band.”

As the years passed, Pereira and his brother were the ones that really chose to pursue music. Wide Mouth Mason brought incredible success and opportunity to Pereira, who was only 20 when the guys were soaring in popularity.

Meanwhile, at just 40 years of age, he has accomplished so much in the industry.

Wide Mouth Mason marked a tremendously successful period, plus he had the opportunity to tour the world, playing over 3,000 shows and opening for iconic artists like the Rolling Stones, AC/DC and Nelly Furtado. Pereira was also named one of Canada’s top bass players by Canadian Music Magazine and has been featured on MTV, Muchmusic and the Ryan Seacrest Show as well as in publications like Rolling

Stone and the National Post.

Between 1996 and 2010, Pereira co-produced and co-wrote much of Wide Mouth Mason’s award-winning catalogue.

He has also worked with a roster of legendary producers including David Leonard (Paul McCartney, Prince), Joel Van Dyke (Aerosmith, Bryan Adams) and Todd Burke (Red Hot Chili Peppers, No Doubt, Johnny Cash).

In 2010, with demand for his side project on the rise, Pereira left Wide Mouth Mason behind to pursue The Steadies full-time.

He couldn’t be more excited about the road ahead, adding that the joys of exploring new creative opportunities is always compelling. “That’s the process - you play shows because you love it and little by little you get better and better. And the stages get bigger.

“There’s also no expiration date on it we can do this as long as we are having fun and enjoying it. It feels like we are just getting started.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

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30 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

ENTERTAINMENT

CAT hits high note with Gladys in Wonderland

BY MARK WEBER RED DEER EXPRESS Central Alberta Theatre’s latest dinner theatre production, Gladys in Wonderland, offers that ideal mix of engaging comedy with just the perfect amount of insight and feeling.

Staged at the North Hill Quality Inn, shows run through to Feb. 6th.

Penned by Rosemary Frisino Toohey and directed by CAT veteran Erna Soderberg, the story focuses on an elderly lady by the name of Gladys. She’s 87 and she is comfortable in her own skin, with simple daily routines and lots of tasty donuts.

One day the Angel of Death shows up at her door - and announces it’s time for Gladys to ‘shuffle off her mortal coil’.

But Gladys isn’t in any hurry to head off to the hereafter - although the concept becomes more appealing as friends and family start dropping by. First we hear from her daughter Doris, wonderfully played by Pam Snowdon. She’s got an array of feelings about her mother, but is mostly caught up in a dizzying whirl of constant concern.

Doris worries about every aspect of her mom’s life, while Gladys ironically is living with hardly a worry.

But Doris’s perspective is mild compared to the stream of visitors yet to pop in. Doris’s uncle Frank barges in with a litany of concerns. Masterfully performed

by Jeff Challoner, Frank doesn’t really talk to or with his sister - he talks ‘at’ her. Glimmers of condescension pop at almost every turn, and the scene rings

January 22nd & 23rd 2016

only too true about how some seniors are often treated.

Next up is Dennis - an ultra annoying and painfully verbose ‘meals on wheels’ type guy. He chatters endlessly about dietary details till Gladys can barely handle it. Curtis Closson does a terrific job at nailing Dennis’s well-meaning but grating ‘presentation’. Later, Gladys, in an effort to perhaps keep the Angel of Death at bay just a bit longer, asks to visit a local nursing home, as some of her family has been considering this the best move for her.

Once there, she has a hilarious chat with Lillian (Dame Pamela Henshall) and Ethel (Lourdes (Lou) Trudgeon).

These ladies point out that staffers are like Kindergarten teachers, and its best just to be pretend to be out if it than to have to participate in a litany of mundane activities to pass the hours. Gladys knows that this is not the life for her.

Gladys is also ‘blessed’ with a visit from her best friend Mildred (Arlene Clark).

Mildred starts right in on Gladys’s lack of planning for her death. But Gladys doesn’t want to dwell on all of that - and she’s baffled at her friend’s insensitivity. Clark is spot on as the funny but pushy Mildred - this woman has a huge heart but she means business - and it revolves around Gladys’s demise. Then Frank’s wife Myrna (played to perfection by Dru Christensen), who Gladys has never been a fan of, drops by and straightaway wants to wash everything from Gladys’s table cloth to her clothes. It’s all about tasks, duties, or what Gladys must need - whether she re-

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alizes it or not. Gladys’s niece Karen drops by with a similar ‘modus operandi’.

Gladys may be somewhat frail, but she’s still feisty and intelligent. The constant instructions are making what time she has left a disaster - and folks like Karen (the vibrant Stacey Palmer) - are making her final days unbearable.

Now this sounds heavy, but thanks to the sparkling script, there’s lots of laughs woven into the story. But there is plenty of truth here, too.

Elderly people don’t want to be spoken to like children or like they’ve lost the bulk of their intelligence. Their bodies might be more frail, but there remains the same person inside who deserves respect and to be treated as a mature individual.

Obviously there are a span of health issues that can impact a person and how they need to be treated as they age. But all too often, elderly people are, like Gladys, talked ‘at’ or talked ‘over’.

Ultimately, Cynthia Edwards is simply fantastic in the role of Gladys - Edwards is of course nowhere near the age of her

character, but she captures Gladys’s characteristics so very, very well - she’s utterly convincing in her portrayal not just of an older woman, but a woman who is coming to terms with the changing and often demeaning ways that she is being treated.

Again, Edwards deserves loads of praise for crafting a character that we root for at every turn. Just outstanding. And Bob Greig is also super as the affable Angel of Death - he’s got a terrific way of delivering lines with an irresistible dry wit.

Of course, accolades must be given to Soderberg. A gifted actor in her own right, she shows more and more talent as a sensitive director as well. Every performance has been drawn out with care, and you can see Soderberg’s stamp all over the show - I can’t think of a better director to guide this show to fruition.

As mentioned, Gladys in Wonderland leave audiences with much to chew on long after the ‘curtain falls.’

For ticket and performance times, visit www.blackknightinn.ca. editor@reddeerexpress.com

Arts Council hosting Arts and Craft (Beer) Fundraiser

BY MARK WEBER RED DEER EXPRESS Plenty of entertainment and an array of craft beers are just part of what make the annual Red Deer Arts Council Arts and Craft (Beer) Fundraiser, set for Jan. 30th at Festival Hall, truly a not to be missed event, organizers say.

It is an opportunity to be introduced to good-tasting beer and a find some new favourites without having to buy the case, organizers add. Tasters will also be given a score card to keep track of what they have tasted and which ones they love.

Appetizers will be featured from favourite restaurants and folks will be able to dance the night away with St. James’ Gate and there will also be a 50/50 draw and raffle prizes to be won - it’s a fabulous chance to celebrate the arts and artisans in the local community.

Tasting runs from 7 – 9 p.m. and St. James’ Gate starts at 9 p.m.

Tickets are available at the Black Knight Ticket Centre by visiting www. blackknightinn.ca.

Last year marked the first event, which was a huge success and sold out as well, says Scott Barnabe, chair of the Red Deer Arts Council.

“It’s supporting the op-

erations of the Red Deer Arts Council and we also use the funds to help fund the Emerging Artist Award,” he says, adding the funds help to replenish a number of scholarships the Red Deer Arts Council provides.

There is also a number of programs that benefit from the fundraiser, as well as day-to-day aspects of the Council, he adds.

“The intention of the Arts Council is that it serves two constituents - one, the general population of Red Deer to say, ‘Hey, here’s what’s going on in arts of all disciplines’ - just to help keep people informed. It’s also for the artists themselves in terms of being able to contact each other, driving attendance for various productions and things like that.”

The Arts Council offers a number of services and events including eight to 10 different exhibits annually that are hosted at the non-profit Kiwanis Gallery at the Red Deer Public Library.

The Council also provides emerging artists an opportunity to learn about the art business and to help establish art careers through encouragement and assistance in developing portfolios, artist statements and proposals

for the exhibition of their work, according to their web site.

There are also various workshops available to the public, the arts community, as well as to members to increase awareness of the arts and to provide valuable information.

Another key aspect to the Council are the scholarship programs, which include the Princess Margaret Scholarships.

They also adjudicate and award the Canada Centennial Scholarships to secondary and post secondary students and adjudicate and award the Emerging Artist Award.

In June 2013, Red Deer hosted the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Distinguished Artist Awards Gala. The LGAA event raised legacy funds, part of which were gifted to the Red Deer Arts Council to establish the Emerging Artist Award and to use the funds as seed money for a fundraising event that would see the legacy funds grow and to continue to provide money for the Emerging Artist Award, as well as for ongoing operations.

Meanwhile, tickets for the Arts and Craft (Beer) Fundraiser are available at the Black Knight Ticket Centre. editor@reddeerexpress.com

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 31

LIFESTYLE

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Gala event in support of PTSD research runs this weekend

BY MARK WEBER RED DEER EXPRESS Singer Jessie Tylre Williams is on a mission to spread the word about the impact of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and to raise funds to help those affected by it.

Toward that end, the 2016 National House Concert Series arrives in Red Deer on Jan. 23rd at the Sheraton Hotel.

Originally set for last November, the event had to be postponed until now because of illness.

But it’s all set for this weekend, she is happy to report.

“I’m doing good - ready to go, ready for January 23rd, ready to rock the stage and to make sure everybody has a good time,” she said.

Guests will enjoy dinner, performances by Williams, and an

appearance by the Red Deer Legion Pipe Band and special speakers, will be held at the Sheraton Hotel with doors opening at 5 p.m.

Tickets are $75 each and are available by calling 403-304-0123 or visiting www.jessie-williams. com.

“It feels so good to give back to those that risk their lives for our freedom every day,” she said. “I feel so blessed to be able to use music as a way to connect with people and help them through their hardships with hopes that I can inspire others along the way.

I’m confident that through these benefit galas we will be able to create a greater awareness, raise money for new programs and reach out to those who suffer from PTSD. “That’s our primary focus to gain a broader awareness of PTSD and how it affects men

and women in service. And to raise funding for different programs across Canada to help them.”

As Williams points out, PTSD can affect anyone who has been subjected to any type of trauma.

Planetary Persuasion has teamed up with Williams to put together the gala series. The first was held last April in Innisfail.

More are scheduled for this year including Edmonton on March 5th, Medicine Hat on April 9th, then she has Winnipeg in August, Regina in September and Halifax in the fall as well.

Dates for May and June are also in the works.

“Everybody that comes to one of these events can’t say enough about it,” she said.

Support has been shown from groups including Wounded Warriors Canada, Can Praxis,

the Royal Canadian Legions, ANAVETS and the Tri-Service Military Association. Williams also now has the help of Glenda Jacobs who serve as national events coordinator.

Meanwhile, Williams is balancing all of this with her career as a country singer too.

She’ll be doing some touring in the United Kingdom this summer as well. “I think I’m gone for about three or four weeks.”

But this cause is never far from her thoughts.

She’s also been asked to host a new TV series called Calling All Angels, which will focus on issues of homelessness across Canada. “We are shooting the pilot in March,” she said. “We are going to go into cities across Canada and get an in-depth look and see what we can do to help the people in the streets to make changes to their lives.”

Williams also pointed out that 100% of the proceeds raised goes to the cause.

She said it’s fulfilling because she’s already seeing good things come from the work she and her team are doing.

“I see hope for people that had very little or no hope left,” she said. She became interested a few years back in helping to support the cause after doing some extensive research of her own into PTSD and also seeing how difficult it was for those affected to get the help they need.

“I’m just being a voice for the people that don’t have one, or who can’t speak up because of their tragedies and battles they are dealing with. We must never stop believing. Where there is life there truly is hope. Music is such a powerful force and it can really heal and transform lives.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

START TTHE START HE NNEW EW YYEAR EAR BEING BEING ORGANIZED! ORGANIZED! Pantry

25% OFF All closets for the month of January!

Craft

*

Laundry One Block South of Costco & Galaxy Cinemas

Hurry, Ends Jan 30th!

*Sale on now until January 30, 2016. Installation not included, not valid with other offers. See in-store for details.

Monday – Friday: 9am – 6pm; Saturday: 10am – 5pm

Closets

403.309.6894 www.canadiancloset.ca

32 RED DEER EXPRESS

LIFESTYLE

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

Do you really need an antibiotic?

Dr. Gifford

JONES Fortunately, some food chains are now serving poultry never given antibiotics.

But it’s a hard sell to convince farmers to include cows and pigs. Why? Because they are more valuable, live longer and have to remain healthier longer.

Never forget that more frequent hand-washing with soap and water could significantly decrease infectious disease and reduce the need for antibiotics.

However, authorities agree that the use of bacteria-fighting hand cleansers make sense in hospitals, but not in homes.

Barbara Murray, former president of the Infectious Disease Society of America told a U.S. House of Representatives Committee, “This summer I cared for two patients with diabetes and urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to a highly resistant strain of E Coli. Both had to be admitted to hospital for intravenous therapy because their infections were resistant to all oral antibiotics!” She added that, “Probably every woman by age 60 has had at least one UTI.” Studies show that every year 30 to 50 million North American women suffer from UTIs, often due to resistant E coli bacteria.

These result in repeated agonizing attacks.

Now, a new natural herbal remedy, available in health food stores, called UTI E-Drops, can prevent and treat this infection.

Like cranberries, they possess an anti-sticking factor that keeps E coli from adhering to the bladder wall. In addition, their antiseptic and antibacterial properties,

form a protective layer on the wall of the bladder to prevent further bacterial growth.

UTI E-Drops are highly absorbable, providing a low but effective dose.

The usual oral dose is 40 drops added to a small amount of water three times a day. In addition, this remedy will eliminate the terror when infection causes blood in the urine.

Years ago, while studying at The Harvard Medical School, I arrived home one Christmas to

find my father near death due to an undiagnosed ruptured appendix. Fortunately, penicillin, a new antibiotic, was smarter than bacteria. It saved my father’s life.

Fortunately, education decreases the use of antibiotics.

Doctors now given an hour of instruction in the proper use of antibiotics, has decreased their use in treating upper respiratory infections by 50 percent. And inappropriate use in treatment of sinus infections and pneu-

monia by a whopping 70%!

Shortly before I completed this column, I talked to a paraplegic patient who must use a catheter regularly to empty her bladder.

This resulted in repeated infections in spite of five different antibiotics! She reported that use of UTI E- Drops resolved her dilemma.

Please let me know if this is helping others.

See the web site at www.docgiff. com. For comments, info@docgiff. com.

HELLO THERE! - Kato, a black lab, was surprised to discover the ghost statue of Reverend Leonard Gaetz while on a walk with his owner, Chantelle Sameshima in downtown Red Deer last weekend.

Temperatures this past Saturday fell below -20C with the windchill.

Zachary Cormier/Red Deer Express

0

0 $ SA 29 %2 $6 VE ( 87 .

U ,1 2 P 63 8 TO ( 5 $1 &,$ 00 /

What would it be like living in a world without antibiotics, where a simple infection could kill you? It could happen, as increasing numbers of bacteria are resistant to antibiotics.

But there are ways to bypass antibiotics so this frightening scenario doesn’t occur. One herbal remedy, recently imported from Europe, can help to end the remark, “We know where you’re going!”

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control reports 440,000 Americans are sickened every year due to eating or handling food contaminated with resistant bacteria. At least 2,000 of these people die from the infection. And over half of the antibiotics used are prescribed inappropriately!

In Canada, Public Health Authorities report that about 25 percent of Salmonella infections are resistant to antibiotics. It’s shocking that some super bugs outlive nine different antibiotics!

So what can doctors, and the rest of us, do to decrease antibiotic resistance?

According to one study 20% of people who received a prescription antibiotic asked for it. It’s often a foolish request for a cold, sore throat, sinusitis, bronchitis, ear infection and the flu, which are due to viral not bacterial infection. It’s a waste of money because viral infections do not respond to antibiotics.

How many are aware that more than half the antibiotics used by humans are also fed to animals?

Unbelievably, Health Canada allows antibiotics used for serious infections in humans to be sold, “Without a prescription for use in chickens, beef cattle and other animals.”

The more antibiotics consumed, the greater the risk that bacterial resistance will occur.

A New Year – A New Home.

Come home to 7KH 5HGZRRGV this New Year and discover Red Deer’s best value in Retirement Living.

An all inclusive lifestyle allows you to enjoy the things you love while we take care of the day to day chores.

Our bright and sunny, spacious studio and one bedroom suites include three executive chef prepared meals daily, weekly housekeeping, award winning Life Enrichment fitness and leisure activities, transportation and more!

Call Barbi at today for a complimentary lunch and tour.

7KH 5HGZRRGV ă 6 Daykin Street, Red Deer

www.theredwoods.ca

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 33 TCall 403.309.3300 or email classified@reddeerexpress.com c

403.309.3300 or email classifieds@reddeerexpress.com call

Red Deer Public Schools Community Programs See Page 2 in the 2015 City of Red Deer Activity Guide for our Law Workshops & ESL Classes

Personals

60

IMAGINE a Walk-In Clinic where Jesus is the Doctor.

Red Deer Healing Rooms operate like a Walk-In Clinic, except it’s Free and open to all!

Open Tuesdays from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at: The Space, 5305 - 50th Ave., Red Deer Open to anyone needing healing. No appointment necessary.

Ph 403-350-8954

Business Opportunities

870

LAYOFF Jitters? Put yourself in charge! Build an exciting career with Primerica Financial Services, where you’re the boss. You determine your own hours and territory with unlimited income potential! Call Devin Jollimore 403-597-8627

880

Misc.

Help

ACADEMIC Express

Dental

740

ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Winter/Spring Start GED Preparation

Morning, afternoon , evening classes in Red Deer and Central Alberta

BOWER DENTAL CENTER req’s a full time Registered Dental Assistant who is a motivated, committed and passionate individual. We run a high paced practice where experience is an asset, but new grads are welcome. Must be avail. on evenings and one Sat. per month. Very rewarding position. Please send resume to: ebakleh@yahoo.com or apply within ofÀce.

Medical

790

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career!

Employers have work-athome positions available.

Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-athome career today!

MEDICAL TRAINEES needed now! Hospitals & doctor’s ofÀces need certiÀed medical ofÀce & administrative staff! No experience needed! We can get you trained! Local job placement assistance available when training is completed. Call for program details!

1-888-627-0297.

Trades

850

FULL-TIME LICENSED Autobody Technician required immediately by busy Import Dealership in the sunny Okanagan.

Candidate must hold a valid Autobody ticket. This is a full-time, permanent position. Includes beneÀts and an aggressive wage package. Resumes to Bodyshop Manager; bodyshop@ hilltopsubaru.com or http://www .hilltopsubaru.com/ employmentopportunities.htm.

Gov’t of Alberta Funding may be available.

403-340-1930 www.academicexpress.ca Looking for a place to live?

Take a tour through the CLASSIFIEDS

Employment Training

900

COME AND LEARN. Unlock your Superpowers!

Jan. 29 & 30, 2016, Edmonton. AWNA’s Annual Symposium.

Educational Sessions in Journalism, Sales Ad & News Design. Internationally acclaimed speakers.

Pre-Register. For more info: www. awna.com/symposium.

Buying or Selling your home?

Check out Homes for Sale in Classifieds

Auctions

1530

COLLECTOR CAR AUCTION. 10th Annual Red Deer Collector Car Auction & Speed Show.

March 11 - 13, 2016, Westerner Park. Special Guests: Dan & Laura Dotson - Storage Wars; “Horny” Mike - Counting Cars; Chris Jacobs - Overhaulin’. Consign today.

1-888-296-0528 ext. 103; egauctions.com.

UNRESERVED WOODWORKING AUCTION. Tuesday, January 26, 10 a.m. 156 Sioux Road, Sherwood Park. Sliding table saw, edge banding dust collection, double mitre saw, sanding & planes, Delivery Van Paint System. Plus much more.

Call 780-922-6090 or full details at www. foothillsauctions.com.

Foothills Equipment

Clothing

1590

VINTAGE (circa 1950’s) muskrat fur jacket. Waistlength, Ladies’ Size M. In beautiful/MINT condition. $75. Call (403) 342-7908.

EquipmentMisc.

1620

A-STEEL SHIPPING CONTAINERS. 20’, 40’ & 53’.

40’ insulated reefers/freezers. ModiÀcations possible windows, doors, walls, as ofÀce, living work-shop, etc., 40’ Áatrack/bridge.

1-866-528-7108; www.rtccontainer.com.

Tools

1640

Misc. for Sale

1760

8 GALLON glass $2.00 each 403-728-3485

1520 1530

1750 1760

3020

50+ CONDO in Horizon jars, Village, newly reno’d, call $1500/mo. incl. condo fees.

403-318-4168 or 403-350-8623

Dogs

1840

MALAMUTE wolf cross puppies, 403-343-8727, 304-8960 You can sell your guitar for a song... or put it in CLASSIFIEDS and we’ll sell it for you!

Sporting Goods

1860

TWO bike helmets, $5 each, 4 motorcycle/snow machine helmets, $10 each. Call 403-728-3485

Travel Packages

1900

SEE POLAR BEARS, Walrus and Whales on our Arctic Explorer Voyage next summer. SAVE 15% With Our Winter Sale for a Limited Time. CALL TOLLFREE: 1-800-363-7566 or visit: www. adventurecanada.com.

(TICO#04001400)

Wanted To Buy

Need a vehicle but can’t get approved?

Call our Credit Team Today!

1790

NEWLY reno’d Lancaster 3 bdrm., 2 baths, main Ár. $1900. all inclusive includGEM H500 rolltop organ ing TV & internet. Rear w/Leslie speaker system garage. 403-877-0489 w/learn to play cassettes SYLVAN LAKE house 3 $500 403-309-4260 bdrm. 2 bath, dbl. car garage, pets welcome, fenced yard, Àrepit, large deck, CELEBRATIONS open concept, security HAPPEN EVERY DAY system, avail. Feb. 1, IN CLASSIFIEDS $1650/mo. + DD, 780-278-0784

Piano & Organs

1930

WANTED - SHED ANTLERS. Buying shed 2 BATTERY operated Deantlers all sizes and walt screwdriver/drill sets conditions. Paying top $10/ea, 3 logging chains HEALTHCARE dollar for elk, deer, $30/all 403-986-4855 DOCUMENTATION moose. Buying all the time.

Specialists in huge Phone, text, email: demand. Employers prefer 403-352-9397 or Household CanScribe graduates. A donovanh@telus.net. great work-from-home Appliances career! Contact us now to start your training day; Grain, Feed ELECTROLUX deep www.canscribe.com. freeze 24” deep, 36” long, Hay 1-800-466-1535; 34” high $140 info@canscribe.com.

403-309-4260 FOR SALE: Alfalfas, Clovers, Grasses plus KIRBY vacuum cleaner GDiamond Edition plus car- Hay, Pasture, Reclamation and Lawn Mixtures. Early pet shampooer $100 Antiques order discount - Book now!

403-309-4260 No charge custom & Art blending. Call 1-800-661-1529 or ROYAL Doulton “Pheasant” esther.stigter@ Jewellery Àgurine. Dated 1941. hannasseeds.com.

Approx. 12” long x 7” tall.

In MINT condition. $65.

COSTUME jewellery: HEATED CANOLA buying Call (403) 342-7908 retro/vintage/fun.

Green, Heated or Spring20 pieces at $10 each. thrashed Canola. Buying: 403-343-1266 oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged Auctions or offgrade grain. “On Misc. for Farm Pickup” Westcan UNRESERVED AUCTION. Sale Feed & Grain, Autos, tools, surplus, 1-877-250-5252. collectibles, furniture and 20 yrs. of National more. 11 a.m., Saturday, ROUND BALES - Hay, Geographic 1995-2014 Jan. 23. Scribner Auction. green feed, straw and bulk $40 On location: 121 - 15 Ave. oats.

Delivery available.

403-309-4260 (Hwy 14) Wainwright, No Sunday calls please.

Alberta. 780-842-5666; Phone 403-704-3509 or 5 DOZEN canning jars to www.scibnernet.com.

403-704-4333. give away 403-347-9357

1710

Houses/ Duplexes

2190

SYLVAN Lake, 3 fully furn. rentals, garage, inclds. all utils., $1100 - $1600. + Private room. $550/ mo. “w/cable” 403-880-0210

Condos/ Townhouses

3030

LUXURY Condo in Aspen Ridge (Easthill) for mature/retired adults, 2 bdrms, 2 baths, 6 appls., a/c. Heat incld., n/s, no pets, underground heated parking, $1600/mo. 403-357-4141 RENT TO OWN $1,295/mo. http://youtube.com/watch? v=hHOHPpPUYkc 403-318-7178

4 Plexes/ 6 Plexes

3050

CLEARVIEW

3 bdrm. 4-Plex, 4 appls., 1 1/2 baths, Rent $1025. incl. sewer, water and garbage. D.D. $650. Avail.

Feb.1 403-304-5337

Suites

3060

2 BDRM. bsmt. suite, $875 + $600. d.d. Westpark area, large windows n/s, no pets, utils. incld.

403-341-0156, 885-2287 2 bdrm. suite downtown area, above store, at 5115 Gaetz Ave. Quiet person preferred $950/mo., $950 d.d. partial utils. paid., high security 347-3149 AVAIL. IMMED. large 2 bdrm. in clean quiet adult building, near downtown Co-Op, no pets, 403-348-7445 EASTVIEW, 1 bdrm. bsmt. suite, fully furnished, n/s, no pets, $800/mo., for single $875 for dbl. Utils. incld.

Avail. immed.

403-782-9357 or 352-1964 ECKVILLE: 2 bdrms. all utils incld’d, 5 appls., newly reno’d. $1175. rent/d.d.

403-746-3132, 746-3505,

Roommates Wanted

3080

SENIOR ROOMMATE WANTED Looking for a Senior to share whole house with Senior woman in Innisfail.

Will have your own private room. Rent negotiable for the right person. For more info., contact George 403-505-7960.

LEARNING EFOR LIFE

403.343.3673 Gasoline Alley • Red Deer County

www.camclarkfordreddeer.com

Service Directory

3090

Rooms For Rent

BLACKFALDS rooms for rent $600 fully furnished, all included 403-358-1614 ROOM, all utils. and cable incld, $450/mo. Call or text 403-506-3277

3180

Pasture

PASTURE & HAY LAND. 400 - 8000 acres of year round water supply. Full operational with management available. Central Saskatchewan. Crossfenced & complete infrastructure. Natural springs excellent water.

Shortly ready to locate cattle. Other small & large grain & pasture quarters. $150k - $2.6m. Call Doug Rue 306-716-2671.

Start your career!

See Help Wanted

4090

Manufactured Homes

NO MATTER WHO you are, we have a home that Àts your lifestyle at United Homes Canada. Over 40 years of experience in providing the best value in quality modular and manufactured housing.

Call 1-800-461-7632 or visit www. unitedhomescanada.com to discover how we can help you Ànd your new home.

Buildings For Sale

4150

LOOKING FOR a shop?

Post Frame Buildings.

AFAB Industries has experience, expertise, reliability and great construction practices. For a free quote, contact Ryan Smith 403-818-0797 or email: ryan.afab@gmail.com.

Celebrate your life with a Classified ANNOUNCEMENT Classifieds Your place to SELL Your place to BUY

POLE BARNS, Shops, steel buildings metal clad or fabric clad. Complete supply and installation.

Call John @ 403-998-7907; jcameron@ advancebuildings.com.

To advertise your service or business here, call 403.346.3356

Consulting

1090 Misc.

Services 1290

New! Clark Counselling Services. Relationships, addictions,stress,grief, assessments,referrals,etc.

403-896-3939 or 587-273-3939. 3rd Áoor #26-4915-St. RD, rccounselling@shaw.ca 7 days/wk & evenings.

Legal Services

1260

CRIMINAL RECORD? Think: Canadian pardon.

U.S. travel waiver.

Divorce? Simple.

Fast. Inexpensive. Debt recovery? Alberta collection to $25,000.

Calgary 403-228-1300/ 1-800-347-2540.

Misc.

Services

1290

EASY ALBERTA DIVORCE: Free consultation call 1-800-320-2477 or www.canadianlegal.org CCA Award #1 Paralegal.

A+ BBB Reputation. 26 years experience.

Open Mon. - Sat.

REACH OVER 1 Million Readers Weekly. Advertise Province Wide ClassiÀeds.

Only $269 + GST (based on 25 words or less). Call now for details 1-800-282-6903 ext. 228; www.awna.com.

Painters/ Decorators

1310

LAUREL TRUDGEON Residential Painting and Colour Consultations.

403-342-7801.

Personal Services

1315

CANADA BENEFIT GROUP. Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000. from the Canadian Government.

Toll free 1-888-511-2250 or www.canadabeneÀt. ca/free-assessment.

HIP OR KNEE Replacement? Restrictions in walking/dressing? $2,500 yearly tax credit. $20,000 lump sum cheque.

Disability Tax Credit. Expert Help: 1-844-453-5372.

INTERESTED IN the Community Newspaper business? Alberta’s weekly newspapers are looking Roofing for people like you. Post your resume online. FREE. METAL ROOFING & SIDVisit: awna.com/for-jobING. 32+ colours available seekers. at over 55 Distributors. 40 year warranty. 48 hour Express Service available TOO MUCH STUFF? at select supporting Let Classifieds Distributors. Call help you sell it.

1-888-263-8254.

1370

Money To Loan

4430

GET BACK on track!

Bad credit? Bills?

Unemployed? Need money? We lend!

If you own your own home - you qualify.

Pioneer Acceptance Corp.

Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420; www.pioneerwest.com.

Trucks

5050

2005 NISSAN Frontier, 4x4 V6, 6 spd. manual, $8,250.

403-704-5576

Tires, Parts Acces.

5180

WANTED - TIRES (4), 8:25xR16:5 403-748-3792

34 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

e Squeezthe MOST out of your advertising dollars

AWNA’s Annual Symposium

Place your ad in this newspaper and12345 province wide $ with a combined circulation of over 800,000 for only...

995

Internationally Acclaimed Speakers

Advertising • Page Design Sales • Creative Cloud Software Journalism • Photography

plus GST/HST

Value Ad Network

Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andrea@awna.com or visit this community newspaper

Full course descriptions online

www.awna.com/symposium

NEVER SHOCK CHLORINATE AGAIN Big Iron Drilling’s patented

Tell them Danny Hooper sent you

Ever work in the UK? Are you missing out?

www.britishpensions.com

Also: Rural Water Treatment (Province Wide) 1-800-BIG IRON (244-4766) View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at

1-888-591-3964

ARCTIC CO-OPS IS HIRING! www.arctic.coop

LOCATED IN NUNAVUT OR NORTHWEST TERRITORIES:

LOCATED IN WINNIPEG, MB:

Retail Store Managers Cooks/Cook Managers

Manager, Risk and Audit Financial Analysts Financial Support Officers

LOCATED IN SANIKILUAQ , NU:

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Bulk Fuel/Petroleum Driver

Produce Manager

Please send your resume to: HumanResources@Arctic.Coop Or fax to: 1-204-632-8575

www.1800bigiron.com

Alruwad International School Muscat, OMAN Alruwad International School, is currently seeking Administrators & Teachers for the 2016-17school year. Interviews to be held in Edmonton & Calgary, AB from March 10-20, 2016.

Why Join Our Team? » Accredited Alberta Education International Private School » Tax free salary, flights, housing, utilities, insurance +more » K- 7 school; small classes; great students; strong support » Amazing travel, personal & professional growth opportunities

Apply by sending your CV to Mr. Darcy Reynolds, Superintendent darcyreynolds@me.com “Learners today; Leaders tomorrow”

View the Clues Contest

Read to Win!

Below are five phone numbers that appear inside our clients’ ads in this week’s Express (includes Special Features & Supplements) Simply match the phone number to the business, fill out the contest form and drop it off at the Express office prior to draw deadline listed.

Note: Express office is closed between noon and 1pm daily.

587-273-4438 403-713-1070 403-347-8898 403-347-8766 403-340-8877

________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________

Enter in person at the Red Deer Express #121, 5301 - 43 St. A $25.00 GIFT CARD TO CORA DRAW DATE: JANUARY 29TH @ NOON

WIN

6858 50th Avenue • Red Deer, AB

403-986-8855

HOW TO PLAY: ANSWER

December Winner: Lonnie Staples Name: _______________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________ #121, 5301 - 43 St.

403-346-3356

YOUR HOUSE YOUR

HOME

A W E E K LY G U I D E TO C E N T R A L A L B E R TA R E A L E S TAT E

CENTRAL AB’s

To advertise call Jenna at OPEN HOUGSE! IN T LIS 403-347-9474 CENTRE PAGES or email yhyh@blackpress.ca DEFINITIVE

Fill-in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started.

Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3x3 box.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 35

SPORTS RDC Kings and Queens hockey have strong showing

BY ZACHARY CORMIER RED DEER EXPRESS It’s been a productive season so far for the Red Deer College Kings and Queens hockey teams.

Both the Kings and Queens are among the top five teams in their respective leagues, with the Kings holding steady in third place and the Queens sitting atop their division.

Since the Christmas break, the Kings and Queens teams have hit the ice four times each and the results have been promising to say the least.

The Kings went into the break with a 10-6-2-0 record to find themselves right in the thick of things in a conference that, this year, is being dominated by the offensive powerhouse that is the NAIT Ooks.

The first two games of 2016 were kind to the Kings, who kicked off the back half of the season with a pair of road contests against last-place Briercrest College.

During the two game set, Red Deer’s players had an opportunity to shake off a little bit of the rust that tends to gather after a month of rest as they handily dispatched Briercrest 7-3 in the first game before picking up a 6-4 victory the very next evening. The Kings’ power play managed to convert five times over the weekend as 11 different RDC players found the back of the net on the way to the sweep.

But the team didn’t really have that much time to savor the wins. They had too much work to do to prepare for a home-andhome series against the reigning ACAC champions

the very next weekend.

“We had a real good week preparing in practice. We changed some things with the penalty kill this week to kind of match up with what NAIT does with their power play,” said Kings’ Head Coach Trevor Keeper.

The two game set against NAIT, who are undefeated in league play so far this season, would be one of the Kings’ toughest challenges yet.

The Ooks are easily the strongest offensive hockey team in the conference with 128 goals for in just 20 games. To put that in perspective, the next highest scoring team is the U of A - Augustana Vikings with 83 goals in 22 games.

“We just tried to emphasize with our guys that the importance is how we play tonight, not the end result or the score,” Keeper said after Friday night’s 3-1 loss to the Ooks at the Penhold Multiplex.

Despite the overwhelming odds against them going into last weekend’s games, the Kings had a really good showing.

RDC put on a defensive clinic during Friday night’s game, holding NAIT to just three goals on the evening. And goaltender Mike Salmon had an excellent game, stopping 32 of the 35 shots that came his way.

“It was a good game. In reality it was a 2-1 game and we made two small errors and they capitalized on both of them,” Keeper said, referring to the Ooks’ second and third goals.

And the Kings just kept on getting better. They out shot NAIT 12-5 in the third period of Friday night’s game and proceeded to out shoot them in the first period of Saturday’s game

Make sure your car checks out.

FULL FORCE - Pat Martens, right, of the Red Deer College Kings was tripped up by NAIT Ooks forward Scott Fellnermayr while trying to take a shot on goal during regular season ACAC action at the Penhold Multiplex in Penhold last Friday. The Ooks edged the Kings 3-1 to remain undefeated.

Zachary Cormier/Red Deer Express as well, though the Kings did end up falling 7-4 in that one.

“We were happy with our work ethic and our forecheck and pressure and getting pucks to the net,” Keeper said, adding that after the game, he feels that his team has closed the gap a little.

“We know they’re a good team, they’re well coached. We know they’re improving.”

The Kings are back in action this Friday night at the Penhold Multiplex when they host the

THE

Keyano College Huskies.

Game time is at 7 p.m.

The RDC Queens continued to show why they are tops on the women’s hockey standings as they kicked off 2016.

After a brief stumble on the road against NAIT in their first game of the New Year on Jan. 6th, during which they were handed just their second loss of the season, the Queens have been on fire.

They came back and defeated the Ooks 3-2 in overtime at home the very next night and then

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against averages.

They’ve also benefited from a very even spread of offense among their skaters and a lot of depth on their offense as well as their blueline.

Next up for the Queens is a big home and home set against Grant MacEwan, who currently trail the Queens by just seven points in the standings.

The first of those two games will take place at 7 p.m. on Jan. 28th at the Red Deer Arena. zcormier@reddeerexpress.com

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continued to trounce Olds College in a two game set this past weekend, outscoring their opponents 11-1.

The Queens currently hold a 13-2-1 record with 45 goals for and just 19 against. That’s pretty good for a team that has played 16 games.

RDC’s women’s hockey effort has been spearheaded by their goaltending tandem of Jen West and Alexandra Frisk, who have a combined save percentage of .948 as well as league leading goals

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36 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

SPORTS

Local downhill ski club for all ages

BY ZACHARY CORMIER RED DEER EXPRESS It has been a strong start to the season for the Red Deer Ski Club.

The City’s foremost downhill and alpine skiing organization have seen good results since the start of the season.

“The season’s been great,” said Alpine Chair Rochelle Oakes.

According to Oakes, this year’s skiing season got off to a bit of a slow start due to the unusually warm temperatures that Central Alberta experienced in early December, but the Club has persevered and was excited to hit the slopes in the New Year.

“We had a little bit of a late start with Mother Nature. Everybody loves the warm weather but, for us, we want cold and snow,” she laughed.

The Red Deer Ski Club is affiliated with Alberta Alpine which has a mandate to teach alpine ski racing to youth.

“So whether they want to go into a more competitive environment or if they just want to learn to be strong skiers, we specialize in alpine skiing,” Oakes said.

In contrast to most freestyle skiing events, such as moguls and half pipe, which are scored events, alpine skiing tends to focus more on having the fastest time through a course.

“All the ages from five to 18, there are different races throughout the province that we can go to. They’ll range from, for the younger guys, just a standard race and as they get older they’ll specialize in slalom, the giant slalom and the Super G,” Oakes said, adding as skiers get older, the different disciplines really start to become more prevalent.

“And for the younger kids, they’ll just learn ski racing and the gates in a controlled, safe environment.”

Oakes said downhill skiing appeals to many different kinds of people because

of how exciting it is.

“It’s a very exciting sport because it offers not only individual achievement, but also with an aspect of a team environment, so each child gets their opportunity to have their moment to shine but then they’re also with teammates where they get to cheer on each other and have that camaraderie with a team,” Oakes said, adding the Club’s programs can be for anyone.

“It’s a life-long skill. So, like I said, whether you want to aspire to be a World Cup champion or if you just want to have really strong skiing skills, it carries you through life, because they do become very strong and technically-skilled skiers.”

Oakes also said that the Club offers a recreational program all the way up to competitive races within the Provincial Mountain Series under Alberta Alpine.

“What that means is if you just want to sign up to do regular training with the Club, you can. Races are completely optional

within our program.”

Since the beginning of January, the Club’s competitive skiers have found themselves smack in the middle of race season.

“In the past, Red Deer has pulled out some really strong ski racers who have been competitive in the provincial series, so we’re very proud of the skiers that have come out of the Red Deer Ski Club.”

This weekend, the Club will be hosting a provincial race out at Canyon Ski Resort in Red Deer and Oakes encourages anyone who is interested in alpine skiing to attend.

“If people are curious to see what a typical race is like, or what alpine racing is all about, on Jan. 23rd and 24th we host a provincial race for ages 10 and 11. So there’s athletes from all over the province that come to that and it is really a big, fun, exciting event.”

The races kick off on Saturday morning at Canyon and run through the weekend. zcormier@reddeerexpress.com

Kudos to the NHL for making the right decision As I sat down to write this column on Tuesday morning, I had no idea how I would attack this issue.

Originally, this was going to be an article about how the NHL should approach the latest development in the John Scott saga. But now it has turned into something completely different.

Scott is an NHL hockey player who is about as far from an all star as you can get.

At 33-years-old, Scott has scored just five goals and six assists in 285 career NHL games. Basically, he’s one of the last remaining pure enforcers in the NHL. He was also one of four players elected by a fan vote to participate in this year’s NHL All Star Game, a vote which the NHL publicly stood behind and supported despite how controversial it had been.

In last week’s edition of the Express, I noted how surprised I had been that the NHL had allowed Scott’s nomination to go through at all given their past history of ignoring fans’ wishes.

Which is why I was so

Zachary

CORMIER shocked last Friday afternoon when I read that Scott had been traded from the Arizona Coyotes to the Montreal Canadiens, a move that gives the NHL an out from allowing him to partake in the All Star Game festivities because Montreal immediately sent Scott to the St. John’s Ice Caps of the American Hockey League and said they had no plans of calling him up.

As a fan and as a sports journalist, the move set alarms off in my head.

Scott’s inclusion in the trade made little sense from a hockey standpoint.

He’s a player that doesn’t fit into the system that the Canadiens have going in Montreal. And when TSN’s Bob McKenzie, possibly the

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most respected hockey journalist in the world, reported Scott had been asked by both the Arizona Coyotes and the NHL to forfeit his spot at the game, which he refused, everything seemed to fall into place.

While it is possible the league had nothing to do with the Scott trade, it was a convenient move for the NHL. It gave them an out from the fan vote because Scott’s eligibility could be called into question.

Fans were outraged. The trade went through and the league made no comment on Scott’s all star eligibility for four days.

Scott commented that his all star status was, “Still up in the air.”

And instead of immediately responding and assuring fans that their pick still mattered, the league issued a statement saying they were evaluating the impact that the trade would have on the Pacific Division roster.

To make matters worse, Arizona’s GM Don Maloney said he expected the NHL

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onto the cause. There was a petition that gathered more than 9,000 signatures in just over 20 hours. And every time the NHL made a post, the fans would instantly flood it with the hashtag.

Within just five hours of the trade, #FreeJohnScott was trending worldwide.

And, I can’t believe I can actually write these words, the NHL listened to their fans.

On Tuesday afternoon, the league ruled that Scott could play in the game.

Not only that, he would still be the captain of the Pacific Division and Arizona would not receive another representative. For the first time in a very long time I would like to say kudos to the National Hockey League, though there are, of course, some caveats.

For one, I wish the league had actually come to this conclusion on their own without the public outcry and made a more speedy decision.

For another, I wish I could say without a doubt the decision wasn’t at least partially motivated by legal and monetary concerns.

The NHL stood to lose way more than they could gain from blocking Scott. If they chose to declare him ineligible, the optics would have been terrible and would probably have tarnished the league’s reputation for years to come.

Forbes also reported Scott may have had grounds to file a grievance against the league if he was barred.

After all, each player on the winning team this year receives a $90,000 bonus. If he couldn’t compete, Scott would have lost his chance to win that money.

But I think that the positives actually outweigh the negatives here. Because they showed the league that they are not a force to be trifled with, and if the league wanted to go against them, there could be dire consequences.

The league will actually allow Scott to play and they slapped Arizona on the wrist in the process. The only way that they could have handled it better would have been making this announcement on the day of the original trade. zcormier@reddeerexpress.com

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would invite another Coyotes player to replace Scott at the game, and he said it with such confidence that I found it hard to dismiss all the conspiracy theories. Granted, there are many players on the Coyotes’ roster that are much more talented than Scott and maybe much more deserving of the all star trip. But I don’t know if there are any who would want to replace him.

Like many enforcers, Scott was well liked in his team’s dressing room, and his teammates stood behind his decision to accept the fans’ invitation.

“He’s dreamed of being in the All Star Game the same way everyone else has, for him to get that chance is so cool,” Coyotes’ Captain Shane Doan told TSN 1040.

So the fans waited, but they didn’t do so quietly.

Instead, they threw every bit force they could muster into a #FreeJohnScott campaign on Twitter and Instagram. The public support for Scott’s inclusion in the game was nearly overwhelming. Fans piled

vs KC | Jan. 23 @ 1:30 pm

vs BC | Jan. 23 @ 1 pm

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

RED DEER EXPRESS 37

HOMES & LIVING

BRIGHT SPACE - This Asset Builders show home in the Penhold community of Hawkridge Estates features large, bright windows and an open floor plan.

Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express

Quality over quantity when choosing new home decor When I am searching for homes or for design items and finishes I am always looking for one main thing – quality. It is better to have fewer items of better quality then to have several items which are mediocre. A home can be finished in a lot of splash and dash yet have no lasting substance or quality. This is sometimes hard to detect in quality of finishing materials such as paint, flooring or lighting but it is worth the investigation if you are purchasing a property that has been renovated.

If you are looking at a recently renovated property it can appear bright and shiny, have a closer look or ask the advice of an expert realtor, property inspector or interior designer to help you see past

Kim

WYSE the temporary glamour. One very easy test for paint quality is a quick wipe on the walls with a damp cloth, if the paint colour transfers onto the cloth or paper towel then you are dealing with an inferior product. It’s certainly something I wish I had done before buying my new house and it bugs me because I have known this tip for years – designer listen to thyself.

Recent flooring or cabinets? Be sure to ask where the product was purchased

and if it was professionally installed.

While as a second owner you won’t be eligible for most warranties you will at least have information about where it was purchased and you will be able to contact that store with any questions or concerns. You can sometimes verify the quality of what was installed in your home should you want to pursue that information for maintenance or cleaning questions.

Be careful to note the type and manufacturer of any window coverings in the home to make sure it is a current supplier. I have seen dozens of people drag dated blinds in for repair only to find out that the blind company no longer exists. Blinds styles and mounting sys-

tems change often and it can be difficult to repair older products. A quick Internet search is an easy way to find out if the blinds in your newly chosen house are still supported by a current company.

Keep an eye out for quality, once you get a trained eye, it is easy to spot! You will soon become an expert at seeing quality renovations and interior finishes if you look beyond the glitz and check for quality installations (straight groutlines, no gapping in laminate or hardwood, tightly stretched carpet, no runs or drips in paint). These things will be a major clue in spotting quality.

Kim Wyse is a freelance interior designer in Red Deer. See her facebook page ‘Ask a Designer’.

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38 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

Choosing the mortgage that’s right for you Choosing the right mortgage to meet your needs is a process best handled with the support of a mortgage professional.

Just as there are many homes to choose from, there are many types of mortgage financing options.

Choosing the right mortgage can save you thousands of dollars and give you the flexibility to make informed choices in your life. It is important to take the time to review each option considering your personal and financial goals and resources. This will help you make the best decision and get you into the home of your dreams.

An important first step in choosing the right mortgage begins with asking yourself a few questions.

What kind of property are you buying?

You may want a starter home such as a condo to build equity that you can rent out later or sell and buy another home.

Or you may prefer to buy a house with suite income. In each case you will want to consider how much you can afford including the condo fees and property taxes.

How long do you plan to stay in this home?

If you only plan to live in your home for five years or less, you may want to keep your options open and consider a variable or short-term loan when choosing the right mortgage.

If you are settling in for the long haul you may consider a longer term fixed-rate mortgage or a combination of mortgage terms (fixed and variable). Each come

Pam

PIKKERT with different benefits and deserve consideration as part of your home purchase and mortgage planning.

Would a fixed mortgage or variable be best for you? A fixed rate mortgage is exactly that, a mortgage with a fixed rate over a fixed period of time.

A variable rate mortgage is based on the prime lending rate (ie. Prime – .5% or 2.5%). As the prime lending rate moves up or down (in relation to the overnight lending rate set by the Bank of Canada) your cost of borrowing will fluctuate.

If you need to know exactly what you will be paying every month for the full term of the mortgage (ie. five years) then a fixed-rate mortgage may be best for you.

Typically the cost of borrowing over time is lower with a variable rate mortgage.

However, the interest rate environment can change and you should review both options when choosing the right mortgage with your mortgage professional.

How much do you have for a down payment and other costs?

If you have access to funds in your own account, RRSP or family gift, you may want to make a larger down payment to lower your mortgage payment and avoid

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Any purchase with less than a 20% down payment is a high-ratio mortgage and must be insured by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) or Genworth Financial Canada (Genworth) or Canada Guarantee. The fee for this insurance varies according to the amount borrowed and the percentage of your down payment, ranging from 1.00% to 2.90% of the mortgage. This one-time, upfront fee can be added to the mortgage.

“CHOOSING THE RIGHT MORTGAGE CAN SAVE YOU THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS AND GIVE YOU THE FLEXIBILITY TO MAKE INFORMED CHOICES IN YOUR LIFE.”

If the home may need some renovations, you could consider a purchase plus improvement mortgage. It is also prudent to keep some funds in your savings for at least three months of mortgage and property taxes as a buffer.

Other factors to consider in choosing the right mortgage:

Loan term. A short-term mortgage is usually for three years or less. Shortterm mortgages are appropriate for buyers who believe interest rates will drop at renewal time.

Long-term mortgages are suitable when current rates are reasonable and borrowers want the security of budgeting for the future.

The key to choosing between short and long term is to feel comfortable with your mortgage payments and how long you are making those payments.

After a term expires, the balance of the principal owing on the mortgage can be repaid or a new mortgage agreement can be established at the current day interest rates.

Open or closed mortgage. Open mortgages can be paid off at any time without penalty and are usually negotiated for very short terms.

They are suited to homeowners who are planning to sell in the near future or those who want the flexibility to make large, lump-sum payments before maturity.

Closed mortgages are commitments for specific terms, one to 10 years for example. They can come with fixed interest rates or variable interest rates. If you want to pay off the mortgage balance, you will need to wait until the maturity date or pay a penalty on the outstanding balance, if any.

Pam Pikkert is a mortgage broker with Dominion Lending Centres - Regional Mortgage Group in Red Deer.

40 RED DEER EXPRESS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016

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