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2 RED DEER EXPRESS

LEARNING CONNECTIONS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

Developing skills with Red Deer Minor Basketball Registration for fall and winter leagues is now open

BY ZACHARY CORMIER RED DEER EXPRESS Red Deer Minor Basketball (RDMB) is accepting registrations for another great fall and winter season.

The organization, which is entering its sixth year in Red Deer, offers programs for age groups ranging from U5 through to U15.

“We offer a 20 week season and that runs from September all the way to March and we also run a 20 session season for our U13 and U15 age groups, so they run twice a week and they’ll be finished by Christmastime,” said RDMB President Tom West.

According to West, the programs that RDMB offers are based more on athlete development than competition, making them somewhat unique in the sports landscape in the City.

“This year our U5 age group is going to run the NBA Junior program and our age groups above that will run the Steve Nash Youth Basketball program. Both are nationally recognized by Basketball Alberta and Canada Basketball,” said West, adding the focus of the programs is to take a more athlete-first model.

“Our focus is more along what’s called the Long Term Athlete Development model, which kind of outlines the importance of kids being developed as athletes first before a lot of basketball skill acquisition takes place,” he said.

What that means, he said, is the goal is to develop kids into really good athletes before they start developing them into good basketball players.

“For instance our younger age groups will work on some sorts of different movements like ‘stop’ and ‘go’, so kids play like

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red light green light and other sorts of games similar to that to get that skill. So as they progress further in basketball we can add in a two-foot stop or a straddle stop, those sorts of things for further developing skills down the road,” West explained.

In order to accomplish that goal, RDMB focuses a lot of time and energy into developing their coaches to ensure that concepts and ideas are communicated effectively.

“We’re always looking at ways to further develop our coaches and support them as best we can,” West said.

“We send as many coaches as we can to get their NCCP level.

I myself am a facilitator for the fundamentals age group which is kids ages five to nine. It’s a nationally recognized program that focuses on those athletes.”

He explained that the NCCP programs, which apply to all sports, train coaches on how how to properly communicate ideas to athletes based on that athlete’s age and level of development in the sport.

“Years and years ago it was mainly drills and drills to gain the skills kids need. Now it’s understanding the athlete’s needs, where they are emotionally, where they are developed at mentally and what sorts of things we can do with them and planning more game-type activities to build those skills.”

RDMB will be holding a couple of NCCP training courses in the City this year, he said, including a course focused on the Fundamentals age group and one focused on the next age group up.

“We’ll be offering one of those in September and Red Deer Minor Basketball will cover the costs for our coaches to take this

course, as well as the next age group up.”

When asked what sets the Red Deer basketball programs apart from the other sports programs in the City, West said it all came down to that athlete first model and to the relatively cheap price point that their programs offer.

“Our pricing is much cheaper than a lot of other sports.

We’re more focused on the development side, less on the competitive side, which once again leans towards that Long Term Athlete Development model. We want kids to enjoy this sport life long and quite often other sports push the competition model in too early for kids and as a result their numbers dwindle the older they get,” he said.

The solution? Gradually introduce elements of competition before ramping up to full five on five contests.

For example, U11 players in RDMB don’t play full five on five full court games. Instead, games are played four on four crosscourt.

“What the research shows is that as a result of having slightly smaller teams it gives kids more opportunity to be involved in the game. They get more chances on offense, they get more chances on defense. They get more chances to make game decisions,” West said.

So, when players eventually do get into those full five on five games, they’ve got the knowledge and experience to make game decisions quickly and effectively.

When asked why he thinks it’s important to push player development over competition, West said it’s all based on research.

“A lot of research just points towards it. A lot of kids just want

to go out and have fun. When you look at the parent-centred model which is years ago parents wanted to know who wins, who loses. Kids just want to go out and have fun.”

In addition to the U5 to U15 programs, the association also has plans to run a High School Training Academy geared towards preparing players for the high school basketball season, but the

details of the program have not been finalized yet. West encouraged anyone who is interested in that program to keep an eye on the RDMB web site for details.

Registration for Red Deer Minor Basketball’s fall and winter leagues is open from now until Sept. 7th. Anyone interested can visit the Association’s web site at www.reddeerbball.ca. zcormier@reddeerexpress.com

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LEARNING CONNECTIONS

RED DEER EXPRESS 3

Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery has much to offer A variety of family-friendly activities are held throughout the year

BY CYRIL BRABANT RED DEER EXPRESS With Red Deer’s ever-changing population, the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery (MAG) has several programs for any and everyone.

There are programs for those of all ages and backgrounds that are held at the museum almost every day of the week.

“There’s a lot of research that goes into creating the programs,” said coordinator of visitor experience at the MAG, Kim Verrier. “We take in a lot of input from the visitors to see what they have interests in.”

The MAG often introduces new and innovative programs to the public but it also has its weekly staples, such as Magnificent Saturday and mini MAG. Magnificent Saturday has been a big part of the Museum’s Saturday schedules, running from 1-4 p.m.

Those interested can just drop in on a session and join in on whatever that week’s art project is for

a nominal fee of $5 per person or $10 per family which includes two adults and all their children, according to the web site.

Each art program is led and instructed by a different local artist.

“We do a variety of different art styles and practices,” said Verrier, mentioning the different kinds of projects they have lined up. “Coming up we have things like Stamp It Out, Painting in Monochrome, and Patchwork Painting.”

Another interesting activity Red Deerians are able to join is MAGsparks, a program that is aimed towards individuals who are part of the Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) community.

“In August, they’re going to do an open studio, so they get to pick their best formats that they can make art with,” said Verrier.

MAGsparks is held every Monday and Wednesday from 1-3 p.m. all year round.

Verrier also spoke

about Cultural Creation Tuesdays, a free program which will be held on Tuesday afternoons until the end of August.

“Each Tuesday we pick a different culture and there are different crafts based on the culture, which kids can come and take part in.

Organizers added that the MAG is also host to Canada One, a travelling exhibition that is centred around people’s first day immigrating to Canada from 1867 to present-day.

The museum’s presence in the community is well known and has been well-received since it opened its doors as it boasts a variety of different programs during the summer such as its summer or day camps.

Verrier said that when the museum develops its programs that it specifically designs them with the current exhibits in mind.

“We’re really fortunate in a way because our board usually says ‘try it! If it works, great if it doesn’t, oh well, you tried it.’ So

we have that ability to try things and see what holds resonance with people,” she said.

Karli Kendall, marketing and fund development associate, added with the more successful programs they often get asked, “When are we going to have the event again?”

Fortunately, the museum does receive funding from several different sources to host all the community programs. “Some of our art programs are sponsored by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts,” Verrier said.

Some of the other programs receive funding from various organizations and foundations, such as mini MAG which receives funding from Kinsmen and Art in the AM which is funded by the Rotary Club.

Verrier said the Museum works with several different organizations that bring programs and exhibits to the museum.

“There have been times in the past that we’ve had special talks and events,”

said Kendall. “We’ve partnered with the Canadian Red Cross.”

She added the Museum has a good partnership with Central Alberta Refugee Effort (C.A.R.E.), the Alzheimer Society, the Red Deer Native Friendship Centre and other groups that have similar interests.

Verrier said the Museum, as always, has several events lined up for the year and has plenty of ac-

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tivities that families can enjoy right now. “It’s kind of cool to have the ability to say, ‘Hey, I have an idea’ and see someone else in the community agree and watch that idea for an event kind of snowball or mushroom and grow into an annual event,” she said.

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LEARNING CONNECTIONS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

City of Red Deer offers variety of programs

BY ERIN FAWCETT RED DEER EXPRESS Families looking to get involved in various activities can turn to the City of Red Deer for help.

There are a number of different programs available at the Collicutt Centre, the Dawe Centre and the Red Deer Recreation Centre.

To help make choosing activities easier, the City has a ‘Look n Book’ guide to help residents. The ‘Look n Book’ is tied to the Community Services Activity and Program Guide that is distributed three times a year. The Fall 2016 Community Services Activity and Program Guide will be available for viewing on the City’s web site.

They will be available Aug. 11th and Aug. 12th. Copies may also be picked up at City Hall, Collicutt Centre, Culture Services Centre, G.H. Dawe Community Centre and the Recreation Centre.

There are a number of programs that are offered at the G.H. Dawe Centre and the Recreation Centre including Red Cross AquaQuest swimming lessons, water workouts, adult swimming lessons, diving lessons, SCUBA diving lessons, snorkeling lessons and Lifesaving Society programs. Skating, karate and golf lessons are also available as well as a number of sport camps. There are also yoga classes, nutrition and cooking classes and business and financial courses.

There are also a variety of clubs Central Albertans

can join come the fall including the Golden Circle Ho-Downers, the Exelta Gymnastics Club and the Kvitka Red Deer Canadian Ukrainian Dance Club, to name a few.

Some community program providers also utilize the ‘Look n Book’ as well.

It doesn’t only include City of Red Deer programs, but it also offers community programs as well. “We offer a variety of programs in the visual and performing arts,� said Teresa Neuman, the City’s community and program facilitator for the perform-

ing arts. “We have programs for all ages – from infants to seniors. “This year, we do have new senior samplers where they can try a variety of one-time classes in visual and performing arts.�

Another new program is Babes in Arms Music and Sign which is a program where participants explore music, movement and sign language. “Baby sign is very popular these days and opportunities for people to do things with their infants are important,� said Neuman.

Central Albertans can get involved in music, dance,

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diversity of culture that is here in Red Deer. One thing we really keep in mind is what community providers are already doing. We try to fill in the gaps.�

Special teen classes are also available including hip hop, improv, drawing, painting and pottery for teens. “It can be difficult for that age group to find programming specifically for them. It is important for us to engage youth - there are a lot of benefits for youth to be involved in the arts.�

Registration for all City programs in the guide begins at 8 a.m. on Aug. 16th. Registration may be done in any of three ways including online at the looknbook page at w w w. r e d d e e r. c a / l o o k nbook; by phone at 403309-8411 or in person at

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theatre as well as visual arts programming such as drawing, painting and clay, among many others. “Throughout the year, some of our most popular programs are the adult and child art programs,� said Neuman. “There are new programs added seasonally by all of the Parks, Recreation and Culture Departments. We respond to the needs of the community and try and include programming that there is an interest for.�

Neuman added when putting together the activity guides, it is important for City staff to include a wide range of activities for those young and old. “We want everyone in Red Deer to have access to ways to interact with each other, to be active and healthy and experience the

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Customers wishing to register for programs using looknbook or by telephone require an individual client number, family PIN, program codes (found in the Activity Guide and on looknbook) and a Visa or MasterCard number and expiry date.

First time telephone registration and looknbook users are encouraged to set up their client and family PINs ahead of time to ensure they have all the necessary information before registration begins. Stepby-step instructions, as well as a features guide, are available at www.reddeer. ca/looknbook. For more assistance, call 403-309-8411 during business hours. efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

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LEARNING CONNECTIONS

RED DEER EXPRESS 5

Ways to enrich life at the Golden Circle

BY MARK WEBER RED DEER EXPRESS There are all kinds of new things to learn, not to mention activities and fun events to take part in, at Red Deer’s Golden Circle.

Monica Morrison, executive director, said the doors to the facility first opened in 1977. Originally, it was a silver jubilee project for the Kiwanis Club of Red Deer.

“People are always coming here to learn new things,” explained Morrison, pointing out that popular areas of interest include everything from computer training to line dancing to yoga, a Sit and Be Fit class, a Move and Groove class to a lively Zumba class, which is taught by local instructor Natalie Brooks.

“It’s a big thing now - yoga is in - because it’s all about maintaining core strength and balance,” she said, adding there are now six yoga classes at the Circle.

“And of course it is also good for peace of mind. Yoga is very good for the overall well-being of an individual.

“We also let people know that they can go to Red Deer College as a senior to audit courses,” she said.

“It’s important for seniors to know that they can check and see if the courses they are interested in have some audit positions available.”

Morrison said the Golden Circle provides drop-in programs onsite which vary widely depending on the interests of the membership. “We’re trying to really expand the diversity here at the Golden Circle,” she said. “Diversity is also about learning, because you learn to understand society and people. Last year, we partnered with Pride and had a Rainbow Tea here and it went over very well. We had close to 100 people here,” she said, adding another is slated for this summer on Aug. 16th in the afternoon.

“Last year some of the comments that I had from our own members were, ‘It’s really nice to see the Golden Circle being more diverse’. It’s interesting when you talk to people - a lot of members have family and friends in the LGBTQ community.”

Morrison said the Golden Circle is also represented on the Welcoming and Inclusive Community Network.

“I know they are getting ready to do a community needs assessment, and we’ve provided some research on the seniors’ needs in this

community based on some of the research that’s been done with the City and other material that’s out there,” she said. “We also want to engage in the multi-cultural community,” she said, adding it’s important to figure out more ways of connecting newcomers to the City with the range of services provided at the Golden Circle.

Looking back at the Golden Circle’s history, back in the 1970s previous community needs assessments had been carried out, and had indicated the City needed to have a seniors’ centre. First off, the Senior Citizens Downtown House was formed, but they eventually were outgrowing their space, said Morrison.

The Kiwanis Club wanted to leave a legacy in the community and ultimately, the Golden Circle was built and established as a thriving hub for local seniors to get together for a range of functions each week.

Themed dinners and travel clubs have also been featured over the years as well. In fact, the current travel club is extremely popular with lots of members signing on for all kinds of adventures near and far.

As to programming, Morrison said her door is always open for suggestions.

“I’m always open for conversations for the community to reach out and say, ‘This is what we’d like to see happening at our local seniors’ centre so I can get out of my house and participate’,” she said.

“I’m very interested in having those conversations to find out what it is that a diverse community of seniors want and how can we provide it and work with them.

“If there is something that we could be doing that would encourage them to be part of the culture here at the Golden Circle, come in and talk to us and let us know what it is that we are missing. I would love to hear from the people.”

Morrison just marked her five year anniversary with the Golden Circle in July. She has been in the industry for more than 25 years.

Upon her arrival in 2011, she noticed staff were planning much of the programming. Morrison said she felt that ultimately, it should be member-driven. And ultimately, in those few short years, she has done plenty to help expand what the facility has to offer.

Back in 2011, membership stood at 950. Today, there are 1,759 members.

LEADING THE WAY - Pictured here is Monica Morrison, executive director of the Golden Circle. A multitude of learning opportunities awaits folks at the centre, which is located near the Recreation Centre and the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery.

Cyril Brabant/Red Deer Express

“Today, a seniors’ centre is a place for people to come together,” she said. “And we are trying to get away from the term ‘senior’,” she added, pointing out that the reality is, even if a person is over the age of 65, even 75 or 80 - they often don’t see themselves as somebody who would drop by the Circle. “We’re trying to change the culture here, that this is a place to come and have fun and be with people.

“We are trying to make it more have that feeling of being a place just to come to,” she said, adding that a person doesn’t have to be a ‘senior’ to sign up. They need only be at least 18 years of age. “That’s the membership age - 18-plus it’s in the bylaws,” she added with a laugh.

Morrison also wants to help members find community volunteer opportunities, plus develop workshops that retirees could teach.

“We want to engage the skills of our membership, and also match business opportunities to retirees who may want short-term work.

These are some of the things on my to-do list between now and December 31st.

To draw on the strengths of our members.”

For more information, call 403-343-6074 or visit www. goldencircle.ca. editor@reddeerexpress.com

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Join an Adult Band The bands of the Red Deer Community Band Society invite instrumentalists who play woodwind, brass, or percussion instruments to participate in the performance ensembles at a variety of levels. The emphasis is upon making great music in a relaxed, enjoyable, non-threatening atmosphere.

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6 RED DEER EXPRESS

LEARNING CONNECTIONS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

English learning skills programs at C.A.R.E. Everyone is welcome regardless of history or education level, staff say

BY KALISHA MENDONSA RED DEER EXPRESS Moving to a new place, either from necessity or want, is always a challenge - especially if a person doesn’t speak the local language.

Central Alberta Refugee Effort (C.A.R.E) offers a variety of English as a Second Language (ESL) courses to help break down that barrier.

Learning Englishh

“LANGUAGE IS NOT JUST FOR TRANSACTIONS OR A SIMPLE TRANSLATION OF MEANING - IT’S FOR COMMUNICATION, INTERACTION AND PARTICIPATION IN THE COMMUNITY. THE LANGUAGE CLASSES AND PROGRAMS WE OFFER REALLY FOCUS ON THE STUDENTS’ NEED TO INTERACT WITH OTHER MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY.” ANA MORGAN-WOLD

“Every immigrant and every refugee that we come across wants to get back to their full capacity of what they were able to do in their home country. Language is a real barrier for that, so we work at removing that barrier and to support all of the effort the students put in,” said ESL Manager Ana Morgan-Wold.

“They really work hard to participate and belong in our community.”

The programs at C.A.R.E. are open to all immigrants ages 18 and over. There are three classes that have been designed to suit a variety of needs, skill levels and availability of students.

The most attended class held at C.A.R.E. is Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC.) “Depending on a person’s immigration status, they are eligible for different classes. Permanent residents qualify for daily classes, Monday to Friday for two and a

subsidies available so if cost is a barrier, people can apply for some assistance.”

Registration for the evening course opens on Aug. 22nd and is first-come, first-served.

Finally, a drop-in outreach program is available.

“That program is designed for mothers of young children with little literacy in their first language and for women who experience barriers to attending regular classes. The dates and times of this course are irregular and the course is held on the main floor at C.A.R.E.” Morgan-Wold said there are also conversation and reading clubs that help to progress and develop language skills.

“Those conversation and reading groups are priceless, they’re just wonderful,” she said.

“Language is not just for transactions or a simple translation of meaning - it’s for communication, interaction and participation in the community. The language classes and programs we offer really

half hours. There is some childcare available for refugees who attend those classes. That’s by far our largest program,” said Morgan-Wold.

LINC offers continuous intake and is a free course to permanent residents including refugees and economic immigrants. This course is a free, comprehensive five-month program that helps to establish a basic understanding of the English language.

Another class offered is an evening ESL program open to anyone seeking training in English as an additional language, designed for beginner to intermediate speakers.

“The evening course is a beginner to intermediate, non-credit, skills-based class that is open to anyone, regardless of immigration status. That’s a good one for temporary foreign workers, refugees, residents, families - everybody is welcome,” said Morgan-Wold.

“There is a fee for that course, which is $110 for the 12-week session. There are

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focus on the students’ need to interact with other members of the community.”

Morgan-Wold explained that the courses offer situational conversation that helps to improve daily living for students.

This includes things like learning how to handle being pulled over, how to navigate transit, how to shop and other situations that are practical and help to live a normal daily life.

“It’s not all about understanding the knowledge about language, but it’s about being practical. We call it communicative competency. It’s more of a performance-based program, rather than an achievement-based way of progressing through. When you’re able to handle one kind of interaction, you can get the confidence to move onto the next.”

“Everybody is welcome. We are here for all immigrants, regardless of background, history or education level. We have something for everyone to help give them a leg up.” kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

LEARNING CONNECTIONS

RED DEER EXPRESS 7

Much to see and do at the Red Deer Public Library

BY ERIN FAWCETT RED DEER EXPRESS There is a wide variety of programming that is offered at the Red Deer Public Library and officials say they have something for every age to enjoy.

“We are a free and accessible resource and we have three branches in the City that are easy to get to,” said Jill Griffith, manager of youth services at the Red Deer Public Library downtown branch. “It’s so important to keep our libraries alive and vibrant. And there is something for all ages.”

All three of the public library branches - downtown, the G.H. Dawe Centre and Timberlands have programs which will be up and running for the fall.

“One of the programs that we have at all three branches is our early literacy program,” said Griffith. “That includes programs like Baby FUN, Toddler FUN and Preschool FUN. We also have Books Before Bedtime Pajama FUN at the Timberlands branch.

Kids can come in their pajamas, bring their stuffies and have a story time before bed.

“That one is a fun one. These are the programs that get the kids started in learning and literacy. We also encourage families to come to these programs and to stay in these programs.”

Each Saturday will offer a themed activity as well. The event called Super FUN Saturdays may offer participants activities with Lego, or a movie day, a PokemonGO-themed party, a Star Wars reads day, among many others.

“Our programs are drop in so that they are very accessible to everyone,” said Griffith, adding in the fall after school programs will also commence at the three library branches in the City.

The Reading Tails program will also begin this fall. It’s a program

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for youngsters who would like to practice their reading skills with a trained St. John Ambulance therapy dog buddy and their handlers.

It’s proven to be an incredibly effective means of helping children grow in their skills – they become more confident and

also find reading more enjoyable overall. These dogs are used in many capacities throughout the community to help people, and it’s been found they are very helpful in this particular reading program as well.

Kids will find a chapter in a favourite book, for example, and read it out loud for 15 minutes every night for a week at home.

Then one evening during the week, they come to the library, and read that same chapter to the dog and the handler.

They then move on to the next chapter and repeat the process.

Meanwhile, at the Dawe branch, the library will be hosting a Science Literacy Week from Sept. 17th to Sept. 24th.

“There will be all sorts of activities and it will be everything to do with science,” said Griffith.

“They are trying to hit all ages and even adults with these programs.”

On Oct. 22nd, the library will host the Olson Memorial Celebration of Books, which is hosted every two years.

“This year we have focused on a chapter book author. Her name is Helaine Becker and she is coming from Ontario and she has written over 70 books,” said Griffith.

For more information on upcoming programs, visit www. rdpl.org. efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

8 RED DEER EXPRESS

LEARNING CONNECTIONS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

Red Deer Royals recruiting for a new season Show band offers international experiences for young local musicians

BY CYRIL BRABANT RED DEER EXPRESS Best known for their performances all across Central Alberta, the Red Deer Royals are now looking to recruit new talented members into their group.

Currently, the award-winning band is looking to fill up a number of positions for the upcoming season.

“The kids that join the Royals are quite dedicated,” said Michael Mann, director of bands for the Red Deer Community Bands Society and the current band director for the Royals.

“They work quite hard as they have that drive for personal excellence.

“It’s a fantastic experience for those students wanting an extra challenge and to see the world.”

The Red Deer Royals is a marching band that accepts music students all across Central Alberta aged 12-21.

They perform at several events throughout the year including the Calgary Stampede, which they’ve been a part of for the past 20 years, Westerner Days and most recently they performed at the Lacombe Days Parade.

According to the web site, the band is generally composed of a mix of musicians and colour guards that total 120 members.

Mann said they are looking to recruit around 50-60 new members for the upcoming seasons.

The recruiting season for the Royals begins as they end their 2015-2016 year of performing.

Mann said they are currently recruiting for every instrument from winds to percussion as well as colour guards.

He added individuals that want to join who play in winds and percussion should have at least two years of experience.

In this year’s band of 70 people, around 60 are returning as some of the members graduate and move onto pursue other fields.

“To be a wind or percussion

SHOWTIME - The Red Deer Royals led the 2016 Westerner Days Parade in Red Deer last month. player you need to be a member of your school band,” he said.

“Also having about two years of experience before auditioning is a necessity.

“For colour guard, there’s no direct experience required but it’s always an asset to have a background in gymnastics or dance.”

For anyone that does make the cut, Mann said they can expect to have a unique musical experience in playing with a group of exceptional musicians who are driven and always striving for excellence.

As of June 21st, the Royals have been accepting new members, with its next audition night

being on Sept. 6th, at Westerner Park.

“In 2017 we are touring,” said Mann. “It’ll be an international tour for us. We’ll be travelling to Europe to compete in the World Music Contest in Kerkrade, Netherlands.”

The Royals recently ended their season with a bang as they were part of the Lacombe Days parade that was held on July 23rd.

“Most school bands perform three or four times a year,” he said. “We perform about 40 times a year. In my experience students love to play in front of people.”

The program isn’t limited

Proudly supporting continued learning in Red Deer & Central Alberta.

Barb Miller MLA Red Deer South 403-340-3565

Zachary Cormier/Red Deer Express

just to kids as the Red Deer Community Bands Society also offers a program for adults as well called the Red Deer Regents.

The Royals began in 1973 and to this day have been touring around during seasons in Central Alberta, across Canada and around the world.

Mann joined the band in 2004 as lead percussion instructor and worked his way up to become the director of the band in 2012. His background in music began with his Bachelor of Music from the University of Calgary and currently teaches music and band at Penhold School and Penhold Crossing

Secondary, according to the web site bio.

Anyone that joins the Royals can expect three different seasons, concert, which is a time when the Royals play as a single orchestra band, akin to a school band; the parade season, in which the Royals participate in summer events as a marching band and the show season which has the band playing while coordinating complex routines on the field for sporting events such as football games.

More information on the Royals and how to join can be found on their web site. student@reddeerexpress.com

CATALINA ROOKIE CAMP ! will be held at the Michener Pool Tuesday Sept. 6th - Friday Sept. 9th, 2016

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• Can you swim a length of the pool (25 meters)?

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Registration begins August 22 nd 2016 Established in 1952, the Catalina Swim Club is one of Alberta’s oldest amateur swimming clubs!

To register call: 403-347-SWIM (7946)

Visit us online at: www.reddeercatalina.ca Email: rdcatalina@telus.net

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

LEARNING CONNECTIONS

RED DEER EXPRESS 9

Kinship Camp coming up via the Learning Disabilities Association chapter

BY MARK WEBER RED DEER EXPRESS Besides kicking back and relaxing, summertime also brings opportunities to sharpen one’s learning skills, and that’s where the local chapter of the Learning Disabilities Association of Alberta (LDAA) comes in.

The Learning Disabilities Association of Red Deer is a registered non-profit organization supporting persons with learning disabilities in Central Alberta.

“We try and give people an opportunity to come and find a way of dealing with whatever challenges they have,” said Bob Irwin, program manager. Staff and tutors aim to give people the tools they need to deal with a range of learning disabilities from dyslexia to dysgraphia (a struggle to write).

“There are different things where people have difficulty retaining the information that they need,” he said. “So we assess them and take a look at different areas for instance in language we will look at their comprehension, phonics and their word attack. And then we’ll identify those areas and figure out ways that we can reinforce whatever concepts that they need,” he said, adding there are a number of methods staff will utilize in introducing concepts to students.

Learning disabilities are a life long condi- has dyspraxia, which is described as a tion that affect up to one in 10 Canadians. disorder affecting fine and/or gross motor This means approximately 30,000 individ- coordination.

Meanwhile, another means of learning is uals in Central Alberta and 10,000 in the Red Deer Region need assistance. coming up later this month via a Kinship “Learning disabilities cross all ages, gen- Camp set for Aug. 15th-19th. ders, socio-economic, cultural and linguisThe focus is on kids ages seven to nine.

The goal of Kinship tic groups.

Camp is to foster in “Research estimates that 80% of learning students the skills to achieve success in sodisabilities, such as “WE TRY AND various forms of dyscial situations.

GIVE PEOPLE AN Topics run the lexia, affect literacy.

But with correct intergamut from dealing OPPORTUNITY TO with teasing and bulvention, support, eduCOME AND FIND A cation and programs lying, ‘whole body’ WAY OF DEALING WITH such as tutoring or listening, communication, cooperation, social skills programs, WHATEVER CHALLENGES self-awareness and persons with learnTHEY HAVE.” self-monitoring. ing disabilities can achieve and excel.”

In addition, stuBOB IRWIN dents are immersed Also according to their web site, the in learning through hands-on activities, LDAA is committed to viewing ‘learning disgames and role play abilities’ in a positive light, as ‘learning that help them fit into some of the social situations they deal with and nurture their differently’.

Many folks with learning disabilities self-esteem to feel confident as well, achave gone on to stellar careers in a range cording to the Association’s web site. of fields - there are photos of various Part of the idea is to help campers uncelebrities on one of the walls of folks derstand behaviours that aren’t approprias varied as Lady Gaga to Jim Carrey to ate and show them how they should act in Daniel Radcliffe of Harry Potter fame who a given situation.

The goal is to also have the campers begin to understand that the proper behaviour in a given situation reaps many rewards. “We try and give them some tools in their toolbox, such as knowing the most effective ways to listen, for instance.”

Other ways the LDAA can help all year long is through offering assessments to determine areas of focus, homework and school assignment help, creating programs tailored to a student’s individual needs all within a multi-disciplinary approach. There are also Think Social events, a speakers’ series and parent and caregiver support groups as well.

For Irwin, who is a retired teacher, working at the LDAA is absolutely a fulfilling venture.

“For me, I really like the learning curve,” he said. “There is always something new to think about and to try.

“I also really like seeing kids have success. I want to give as much opportunity as I possibly can for those kids to be successful, and to see that success in themselves.”

For more information about the coming Kinship Camp or just more about the organization as a whole and the programs they offer, call 403-340-3885 or visit www.

LDRedDeer.ca. You can also email programs@ldreddeer.ca. editor@reddeerexpress.com

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10 RED DEER EXPRESS

LEARNING CONNECTIONS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

Continuing to strengthen language skills

BY MARK WEBER RED DEER EXPRESS Many newcomers to Red Deer need assistance with the complexities of the English language, and the Adult Literacy Program at the Dawe Library offers the perfect setting to find those services.

The Red Deer Public Library Adult Literacy Program matches adult learners with volunteer tutors to work together two to four hours per week. They typically meet once or twice each week usually at the Dawe or downtown branches of the Library.

Learners meet with their tutors in one-to-one situations, or in small groups of two to five learners.

Learners may be Adult Basic Literacy learners (ABL) or English as a Second Language learners (ESL).

Basic skills may include reading, writing, and numeration up to about a Grade 9 level, as well as conversation and pronunciation.

The program has been running for more than 30 years, said Lois Prostebby, manager of the Adult Literacy Program. Prostebby is retiring as of Aug. 21st, with Alla Mysko taking over the post officially on Aug. 10th.

A special event is planned for Aug. 17th on the Dawe branch patio from 4 to 7 p.m. It’s an opportunity for friends and students past and present to drop by and bid Prostebby a fond farewell while welcoming Mysko as the new program coordinator.

There will be light snacks, drinks and an opportunity to mix and mingle.

Meanwhile, the program is truly geared to the needs of the students, and there are all kinds of fun, engaging and interesting ways for tutors to help them strengthen their language skills.

“We are also up in our numbers considerably - we have had over 300 learners this last year,” said Prostebby, adding that this marks an increase of 50 learners over the year prior.

There have also been 187 tutors onboard over this past year as well, which is up, too.

“The downturn in the economy has brought more learners our way,” she explained, adding that they also expect more Syrian refugees to come for help as they continue to settle in the Central Alberta region.

The program, which is located in the Dawe Library branch, contains all kinds of handy resources that can be utilized.

But sometimes the pairs will spend part of their sessions simply talking or reading together.

Whatever the educational mix, it all works to bolster the learners’ skills and build their confidence as they continue to settle into careers and the community.

“We’ve had some very

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long-serving volunteers that give tremendous amounts of time,” said Prostebby. “We’ve also noticed in the last few years that we’ve had a number of young professionals volunteer. So they are often well-traveled, they may have spent time overseas, or maybe even have taught ESL overseas so they are often very interested in doing that here, too.

“They’re coming to give their time - they’re working professionals so they may not have a lot of time to give, but for those two hours a week they’re here, and they are great.”

Prostebby added there are also now child-minding services available as well. “That’s been very successful, and to our learners it’s also free.”

The Adult Literacy Program works closely with the Central Alberta Refugee Effort (C.A.R.E.) And that’s where the newly-hired Mysko had worked for several years after relocating from the Ukraine.

“It’s has become a huge part of my life - all of my friends and relationships have come from C.A.R.E. because that was the first place I was at when I came to Red Deer.”

Meanwhile, she’s very excited about delving into her new position.

“I’m looking forward to learning new things. And the biggest thing that attracted me to this job was being more directly involved in making a difference in the community,” she said. “I just feel like it’s my turn to give

back from what I’ve received as a newcomer to Canada myself.

“The other big thing is people I love working with people. And this is a very, very people-oriented position.

“It’s amazing how much time people give and donate out of their lives to help. It brings hope.”

Mysko came to Canada 11 years ago, so working with newcomers to Canada is also of special interest.

Prostebby said Mysko’s enthusiasm and extensive skill levels make her the best fit as a replacement. “She’s an expert ESL instructor. She’s also musical, and we do a number of events, so she has connections there as well.

“We also were looking for somebody who could do the administrative job in terms of looking after financial records and such. The person that does this job needs to be organized with a real attention to detail, and Alla has all of those traits.

And just look at her personality,” she said with a smile. “I think the program is going to grow and flourish under Alla’s leadership.

“For me, I’ll really miss the people,” added Prostebby, reflectively. “I love this job - it’s been great. I’ve met so many interesting people - both learners and tutors. They all come with interesting stories.

“I hope to come back and volunteer once Alla has gotten her feet firmly planted.”

When it comes to tutoring, a good match can bolster confidence levels in the student, and thereby open the doors to an even richer learning environment.

Ultimately, it’s a wonderful time of learning and growing for both tutor and learner.

For more information, contact the Adult Literacy Program by calling 403-346-2533 or email adultlit@rdpl.org. Check out https://www.rdpl.org/services/ adult-literacy. editor@reddeerexpress.com

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

LEARNING CONNECTIONS

RED DEER EXPRESS 11

Getting prepared for hockey through development camps

BY ZACHARY CORMIER RED DEER EXPRESS It’s difficult to believe that hockey season is almost upon us once again, but with September right around the corner, it’s time to think about getting back into the swing of things for most hockey players.

“I think the benefits of it, ultimately, are largely geared towards people who do want to get back on the ice and get muscle memory going from the previous season,” said Kevin Hill, an instructor at Thrive Hockey Development in Red Deer.

Thrive runs a variety of hockey development programs for players in the ‘dynamite’ age groups all the way up to junior hockey players.

“We run camps anywhere from recreational up to high-end elite athletes, as well as position-specific programs for goaltenders, defensemen and forwards,” said Hill, adding that the group also offers a variety of tournaments and three-onthree hockey leagues, as well as AAA elite spring hockey teams.

When it comes to getting ready for the new season, Hill said there are a variety of

“I THINK THE BENEFITS OF IT, ULTIMATELY, ARE LARGELY GEARED TOWARDS PEOPLE WHO DO WANT TO GET BACK ON THE ICE AND GET MUSCLE MEMORY GOING FROM THE PREVIOUS SEASON.” KEVIN HILL

options for players, as each camp tends to be a little different.

“Every camp, I guess you could say, has objectives for the type of athlete that we think is going to be registered in that program,” he said, adding that at Thrive, programs tend to be catered towards both the age and skill level of each participant.

For example, if a specific camp is geared more at an elite-level player, then the delivery of that camp curriculum will be aimed at reaching that player, meaning more advanced and complex drills and a more high-intensity environment. On the other hand, camps geared towards recreational players will be focused more on getting that player back on the ice and

getting a feel for the game again.

“It all depends on the player, what position they’re playing, their skill level, their age, their maturity. A player that’s 10-years-old that has been playing a high level of the game might be further down the road than one that’s potentially a year or two older than them.”

When it comes to what drills specifically Thrive works on with their athletes, Hill said it’s difficult to describe just a few.

“That’s about a 10 chapter book right there,” he laughed.

“We work in partnership with a number of organizations as far as development of camps and curriculum go as well as some Hockey Canada parameters in terms of where they see the game as far as development of players.”

For younger hockey players, that curriculum tends to focus more on skating, he said.

“Ultimately at the younger level, skating development is key. If you don’t learn to develop your skating effectively at a younger age and continue focusing on that all the way through, that’s really

vitally important. The individual fundamentals are developed at a younger age,” he said, adding that as players get older the focus shifts more to some of the more nuanced aspects of the game.

Hill also noted that as players get older, the psychological side of hockey begins to come into play.

“When an athlete gets to be 14, 15, 16, the psychological side of the game starts to come into play. Where if you want to compete as a high-end elite athlete in the sport, you have to understand what it takes to do that. A lot of the psychological side as far as mental imagery and how you talk to yourself goes - are you a positive thinker and a positive role model?”

According to Hill, the main benefit to summer and fall hockey camps is the fact that it gets players back on the ice after having taken the summer off, something that becomes vitally important as tryouts for high-level teams become more and more competitive.

“The preparation for tryouts as well as skill development and conditioning are very important. If you step on the ice for the tryout process for your minor hockey association in September and you haven’t been on the ice since last March, well that’s like picking up a golf club after not golfing for six months.

“You don’t have the same feel for the ice.”

For more information on Thrive Hockey Development’s camps or to register for a program, you can visit www.thrivehockey. com. zcormier@reddeerexpress.com

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12 RED DEER EXPRESS

LEARNING CONNECTIONS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

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