Special Features - Red Deer Holiday Family Celebrations

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Live nativity brings the Christmas Performances story to run at Kentwood Church of Jesus life this Christ of Latter-Day Saints season

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“The three largest units, plus the two smaller units get together and everyone takes a night or contributes to a night. Each congregation, The Kentwood Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- respectively is then responsible for that evening,” Day Saints will play host to one of Red Deer’s Bondy explained. most lasting Christmas traditions once again For example, the youth from the ages of eight this year. up to 19 in a congregation provide the actors for For the 35th year, the church on Keats Way will the cast of the living nativity scene. be the site of the living nativity pageant, which The congregation responsible for each night is runs from Dec. 20th through Dec. 22nd this year. also responsible for providing the hot chocolate Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and performances of and cookies that are given to guests who come the pageant will take place at 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m. to view the pageant and the creches. and 8 p.m. nightly.

“This year we’re going to have alThe pageant is a depiction of most 1,000 cookies for people the story of the birth of Jesus to come and enjoy along Christ as it is told in the goswith hot chocolate. pels of Luke and Matthew Those are all made from the New Testament in the homes of the and is put on by youth from people who reside in the Church of Jesus Christ those congregations,” of Latter-Day Saints from Bondy said. the community.

Last year, she said, “We even have live anithe pageant and creche mals. We have Mary riding display drew in the on a donkey and we have best turnout that they sheep grazing in the field. So have ever had. ▾ that’s the traditional Christmas “I can’t give you a number.

“THAT’S WHAT story that we’re portraying there,” We didn’t have a guest book last said Carolyn Bondy, one of the year but the reasons that we’ve CHRISTMAS IS ALL organizers of the event. increased the number of cookABOUT. IT’S ALL As in previous years, the pageant this year is because last year ABOUT THE BIRTH OF ies will take place outside the church we ran out! So that’s kind of an JESUS CHRIST.” and will be put on in conjuncindication of what a good year tion with a display of hundreds we had,” she laughed.

Carolyn Bondy of unique decorative nativity sets She did note that last year from around the world. ▴ the congregation had excellent “Last year we had over 300 and weather for the three nights that they were lovely. They were donated for the they put on the pageant, which probably conduration of the event, for the three days. Some tributed to the high turnout. of them are from different parts of the world, “We’re hoping that we have the same kind some of them are from collections where people of weather again this year because that really have maybe up to 30 or 40 in their own private makes a difference as to attendance. Hopefully collections and they bring a portion or all of we’ll have at least the same amount, if not more that collection to share with the public,” Bondy coming this year.” said, adding that the congregation has enjoyed In the event that the weather is cold, howputting on the pageant every year. ever, Bondy said she advises people to dress “That’s what Christmas is all about. It’s all about appropriately. the birth of Jesus Christ.”

“They need to be dressed for winter. They can’t Each year, the pageant is put together as a just come in a little summer jacket and expect joint production between the five congregations to enjoy the outdoor pageant,” she said, noting of Latter-Day Saints in the City, two of which the pageant itself is only 15 to 20 minutes long, attend the Kentwood building on the north end so people won’t have to sit outside for too long and one of which attends the Bower Chapel on in order to see the show. the south end. zcormier@reddeerexpress.com

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Red Deer Family Celebrations

SANTA HAS ARRIVED in style in Red Deer

BY ERIN FAWCETT Express staff

Santa Claus arrived in the City last month and is busy spreading his festive spirit and bringing joy to those around him.

Santa has been keeping busy as he visits both the Parkland Mall and Bower Place Shopping Centre each day until Dec. 24th. Children have been lining up to chat with him and get their photo taken.

“We always go all out for Santa’s arrival with an Honour Guard and bagpipes and a parade and fire trucks,” said Melody McKnight, marketing director at Parkland Mall. “We have a pretty fun Santa set. It’s a simple set up but it works really well for young children, especially those who may be a little bit afraid of Santa yet and who are unsure.

“There is a front sleigh piece that kids can play on and Santa will sometimes photo bomb them and they don’t realize that Santa is in the photo, but parents can still get a fantastic Santa photo with their child without their child being afraid.”

McKnight said it is exciting to see the kids’ eyes light up when they see Santa on his photo set near Guest Services at Parkland Mall.

“It’s a magical moment they are always going to remember. The looks on their faces of sheer delight when they see Santa - they can’t believe it’s really him and that he is really here. Their eyes just light up and they are so excited to see Santa.”

At Bower Place, Santa has also been kept busy and has been enjoying a brand new set.

“Santa has a new home which is the Bower Place Express,” said Dallas Hand, marketing director at Bower Place Shopping Centre. “We have had nothing but rave reviews of the set. Kids love the train that parades overhead - that’s a great

aspect of it for sure.

“There are two interactive parts to it as well, a train switcher and a live whistle. It makes a little more noise than our last set, but it brings in the Christmas spirit - you have to love that. And you can’t miss the 26-foot tree in the middle either.

The whole set has a huge presence and it really brings that Christmas feel to the mall.”

Hand said having Santa as a special guest at the mall for about six weeks is something the staff at the mall enjoy as well.

“We work towards this every year, so it’s really a culmination of all of our work.”

While he is well known as Santa in Red Deer, he has many names around the world including St. Nicolas, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle and Sinterklaas. He is easy to spot with his bright red coat with white collar and cuffs, red trousers, black leather boots and snowy white beard.

He lives quietly most of the year with Mrs. Claus in his house at the North Pole. Living nearby are his magical elves and a herd of flying reindeer.

But come Christmas he is very busy and many wonder how Santa can do so much on Christmas Eve, but he does get a lot of help from his elves who make the toys throughout the year and the reindeer who whisk him through the sky going from house to house.

There’s a lot of paperwork that needs to be done, too, including keeping those lists of children and whether they are naughty or nice up to date, although there is a rumour that he may now use a computer.

It’s understood that Red Deer children, in fact, virtually all Central Alberta children are well behaved, so he’ll be busy delivering all those goodies come Christmas Eve.

Wednesday, December 7, 2016 3

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Histories of our treasured

Christmas traditions

BY MARK WEBER Express staff

It’s ‘the most wonderful time of the year’ once again - a time when families and friends gather to celebrate Christmas complete with the many traditions that are a part of the season.

But where did some of these beloved traditions come from? From Christmas trees to the enduring nature of songs like Silent Night - there clearly was a ‘beginning’ point to these customs which many hold dear.

“The celebration of Christmas is accompanied by numerous traditions and customs which have developed in many parts of the world over a long period of time,” writes Rudolph Brasch in his book Christmas Customs & Traditions. “No other festival has produced such a wealth and variety of customs, and each one has its own fascinating story.”

First of all, the word ‘Christmas’ is derived from ‘Christ’s Mass’ – the first religious celebrations which honoured Jesus Christ’s birth. Pinpointing a date for the celebration didn’t come until AD 350, when Pope Julius I designated Dec. 25th as Christmas Day. “He did so mainly to counteract the effect of the popular feast held in honour of Saturn – Saturnalia – which occurred at the time of the winter solstice.”

Christmas trees took a long time to become part of holiday celebrations in English-speaking countries. Royalty was responsible for helping to establish the tradition in Britain.

“Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s German-born husband, had a Christmas tree erected in Windsor Castle in nostalgic remembrance of his homeland. The royal example was soon copied by the general public, and the custom then spread throughout the world.”

What about Christmas cake? Admittedly, many folks aren’t fans of dried fruit, while others find the holiday treat nearly irresistible.

According to BritishFoodHistory.wordpress.com, “The Christmas cake as we know it comes from two Christian feast days: Twelfth Night and Easter.

“When families in the sixteenth century made their Christmas puddings for the big day, they would often use some of the mixture, with the addition of flour and eggs, to bake and eat for Eastertime. These were obviously rather rich families. It was liked so much that the rich fruitcake was made for Christmas, too. We also dropped it from the Easter menu for some reason.

“The addition of the marzipan and royal icing came much later when the cake was banned from Christmas.

“Oliver Crowell, the Lord Protector of England, and the other Puri Puritans itaanss banned the feasting on that special day in the 1640ss (he also banned mince min nce ce pies as well) complaining that there was too much excess. Christmas D Day ay remained a public holiday and some feasting was as allowed, so peop people ple simply made their Christmas cake and covered d that in marzipa marzipan an instead, and so the Christmas cake was born.”

As for the presentation of nativity scenes, thiss custom stretches back centuries to the time of St. Francis of Assisi. sisi. “After receiving permission from the Pope, he erected the first one during Christmas of 1224 in a cave outside of the Italian town of Greccio.”

Live animals were included of course, and it was as a, “Novel and eye-catching way to celebrate the memory of thee child who was born in Bethlehem.”

As for St. Nick, the original Santa Claus was St. Nicholas, a fourth century bishop of Myra which is now part of Turkey.

The Dutch, in particular, came to love the legend nd of Nicholas.

In their language his name became Sinter Klaas..

“The British eventually anglicized his name, thus creating the modern Santa Claus.”

Of course, music is also an enormous part of the Christmas cs. season from traditional carols to modern classics. ated quite like On the traditional side, few carols have resonated Silent Night, first sung on Christmas Eve in 1818 in n the Austrian village of Oberndorf. Father Josef Mohr was preparing eparing for his ut of order. midnight mass, and found that the organ was out “Father Mohr felt that the service would lose much uch of its beauty and warmth if there was no music. Something had to take the place of the organ.” ook to the local He had penned a Christmas poem which he took school master, Franz Gruber who also composed ed music on an informal basis and played the guitar.

“Mohr asked him whether he could quickly set this poem to music so that it would be ready that night. He should ould do so for two solo voices to be accompanied by guitars.”

It only took a few hours for Gruber to come up with the simple yet et elegant tune, and the song was sung that night for the first time. IIts ts d eventually throughthrouggh h-popularity spread quickly across the country and don ne out Europe. A century passed and singer Bing Crosby, as he had done rulyy with White Christmas, lent his golden voice to the melody and a ttruly global classic was born. mark.weber@reddeerexpress.com mark.weber@reddeerexpres ss.ccoom m

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Red Deer Family Celebrations

The Veer family Christmas traditions One of our community’s senior citizens was in my office last week and remarked that the more time passes, the more quickly it seems to go. He’s absolutely right. I count myself among the people who feel as though I literally just put my Christmas tree away, and here it is time to dust everything off again.

As I dust and silently resent the dried pine needles that stubbornly linger in storage bins from a few years ago, I count myself among the people who commit early in the season to ‘do Christmas’ differently this year… more simply, with more generosity to those in need, with less frenetic running of errands for more bows (they just end up being flattened anyway when you throw presents in a garbage bag to bring them to where ever you’re having Christmas dinner) and a whole lot less consumption of baked goods (with all due gratitude to everyone who brings their leftover baking to work so that you don’t eat it at home).

To be clear though, it’s the ‘trappings’ of the holiday season that elicit my reluctance. Christmas itself I absolutely love - the meaning of the

season, quality time with family and friends, the time to appreciate all the people we often take for granted throughout the year, the opportunity to reflect on the year that has just past and to anticipate all that awaits us in the coming year, are all reasons I welcome the holiday season.

My family is very close, and our Christmas and holiday traditions are in many respects the same as when I was young growing up in our very own Red Deer. Our background is Norwegian and Dutch, so these cultural traditions are a strong presence in how we celebrate. We have dinner and open gifts on Christmas Eve, with “lefse” an annual staple at the dinner table (my mom makes it, and if you ask she’ll likely make some for you too).

Lutefisk occasionally makes an appearance as well; even if nobody eats it, it’s there as an option in case we want to forego turkey in order to connect with our Scandinavian ancestors. Every year our family also pauses to reflect about the empty chairs at our Christmas table and remember those we are missing, and then we invest the rest of our time together being thankful for and enjoying everyone we are

Mayor Tara Veer

fortunate to have with us.

Over the holidays, we always go look at Christmas lights (Ohio Close is an absolute must Red Deer!), preceded of course with a minor debate whether to listen to A Bing Crosby Christmas or A Boney M. Christmas. I also make sure to get an annual skate in at Bower Ponds, a cross country ski at the River Bend trail, and a hike at Heritage Ranch. Above all, we find ways to support the vulnerable among us, because as much as the holidays are a reminder of all that we have to be grateful for, they are also a sobering reminder for - those who are missing loved ones, struggling with health or other personal adversities, and for those who are not in a financial position to meet even basic needs, let alone the material expectations of the holidays.

My fellow Red Deerians, if we see each other in the community running errands over the next couple of weeks (there’s always ‘just one more trip’ to the grocery store isn’t there?), let’s make sure to stop our harried pace enough to make eye contact and wish each other all the best for the season and in the coming year. We’re all likely too busy to say what we appreciate about each other in a holiday card, so let’s just say it in person instead.

As always, City council and I thank you for the privilege of serving you over the past year and look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the year to come. I hope that you and your loved ones have a very Merry Christmas and wonderful holiday season. May 2017 be above and beyond all that you could hope for.

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Red Deer Family Celebrations

Fruited Brazil Nut Loaves • 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) dried figs • 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) dried apricots • 1 cup (250 ml) candied pineapple • 1/2 cup (125 ml) candied cherries • 1/2 cup (125 ml) chopped preserved ginger • 1 cup (250 ml) all-purpose flour • 1 cup (250 ml) packed brown sugar • 1 tsp (5 ml) baking powder • 3 cups (750 ml) whole shelled Brazil nuts • 4 eggs • 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla

PREPARATION: Line two 8- x 4-inch (1.5 l) loaf pans with foil; grease well and set aside.

Pour boiling water over figs and apricots; let stand for 5 minutes.

Drain and chop into large pieces.

Cut pineapple into chunks. Halve cherries.

In large bowl, mix together figs, apricots, pineapple, cherries, ginger, and Brazil nuts. Stir together flour, sugar, and baking powder; add to

Spanish Meatballs Meatballs • 2.2 lb (1 kg) lean ground beef • 2 chopped yellow onions • 1 egg, lightly beaten • 3 tablespoons (22.5 g) ground walnuts • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) paprika • 1 1/2 tablespoons (22.5 ml) cumin • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) cinnamon • 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh chopped parsley • Salt and pepper, to taste Sauce • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil • 1 1/2 tablespoons (22.5 ml) fennel seeds • 1/2 cup (120 ml) dry white wine • 1 28 oz. (900 ml) can of diced tomatoes • Salt and pepper, to taste PREPARATION: In a large bowl, mix all ingredients with ground beef. Make one-inch (2.5 cm) meatballs and set aside. Heat oil in a frying pan. Grill fennel seed while stirring constantly. Pour in wine, stirring until alcohol evaporates. Add tomatoes and seasonings. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add a bit of water if needed. Add meatballs to sauce and simmer at low heat for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally. Once cooked, place meatballs and a bit of sauce in paper muffin liners in a serving dish. Keep covered with aluminum foil until ready to serve.

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Makes two loaves

fruit mixture and toss to mix.

In separate bowl, beat eggs well; stir in vanilla. Add to fruit mixture and mix well; spoon into prepared pans. Bake in 350°F (180°C) oven for 1 hour or until cake tester inserted into centre comes out clean.

Let cool in pans on racks for 10 minutes; remove from pans and let cool completely on racks.

Loaves can be wrapped well and refrigerated for up to two weeks.

Eggnog Fudge Makes 64 pieces • 3 cups (750 ml) granulated sugar • 1 cup (250 ml) eggnog • 1 tbsp (15 ml) corn syrup • 2 tbsp (25 ml) butter • 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla • 1/2 cup (125 ml) chopped walnuts Glaze • 1/4 cup (50 ml) semisweet chocolate chips • 1 tsp (5 ml) butter

PREPARATION: Grease sides of large heavy saucepan. Add sugar; stir in eggnog and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until boiling.

Cook, stirring only if necessary to prevent sticking, until candy thermometer reaches soft-ball stage of 238°F (115°C), and when 1/2 tsp (2ml) syrup dropped into very cold water forms soft ball that flattens on removal from water.

Immediately remove from heat; let cool to lukewarm, 110°F (43°C), without stirring. Using wooden spoon, beat in butter and vanilla, beat-

ing until very thick and no longer shiny.

Quickly stir in nuts. Spread in greased 8-inch (2 l) square cake pan. Tip: If fudge sets too quickly before spreading in pan, reheat gently over low heat just until soft enough to spread.

Glaze: Melt together chocolate chips and butter. Drizzle over fudge. Score into 1-inch (2.5 cm) squares while warm; let cool completely and cut into squares.

Fudge can be layered between waxed paper in airtight container and stored for up to two weeks.

Season’s Greetings from Red Deer Library Board & Staff!

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Reflecting

Every year you hear it ‘I’m going to slow down this Christmas.’ ‘We are going to try and keep things simple.’ ‘I’m just not going to get all caught up in the commercial craziness of the season.’

Lots of people may say things like that every year - and probably many think them. Maybe a few actually are successful in their goal of simplifying the season. But let’s admit it - it’s a tough thing to do when you are surrounded by a society that truly does tend to get a little ‘over the top’ when it comes to certain elements of the Christmas season.

I know that for me, the season is tending to get a bit more simplified each year - and to be perfectly honest - I welcome that change.

Don’t get me wrong - I absolutely love the Christmas season.

Often, I have Christmas music playing as early as October much to the chagrin of many.

I can’t help it - it’s such a warm, fabulous season I just like to start celebrating a bit early on even if that just means hearing a few carols and songs of the season long before the snow flies.

This fall, one of my sisters and her husband moved to B.C. which has gotten me all reflective and nostalgic, too.

They just moved last month.

Not only will I miss them very, very much - but of course this means that our Christmas celebrations will change, too. We simply won’t be able to all be together every year as we used to - the distance, and the snowy Rocky Mountains - can tend to make travelling a bit of a challenge over the holidays!

But we will still be ‘together’ even if we aren’t in the very same house - thankfully there’s that powerful connection that is very real with the people we love.

As I get older, I appreciate more fully what Christmas really points to – the birth of Jesus Christ and the hope and salvation that He brought and brings to our world. I also try, in my own way, to preserve what the holiday points to in my own small way - I tire of watered-down, bland almost meaningless expressions like ‘happy holidays’.

Nothing expresses the richness and depth of this time of year quite like simply saying, ‘Merry Christmas’. Beyond that of course, it’s a celebration that we treasure.

Personally, it’s always been a very special time for me and my family, and I credit my parents with much of that.

I have nothing but a collection of wonderful memories of childhood Christmases.

Looking back, I don’t have so much a specific year in mind that stands out in terms of Christmas.

It’s more like looking through a big book of memories packed with photos, mementos, cards and such – all kinds of moments come to mind. One of my favourites is recalling how we would pile into the frozen car on Christmas Eve to attend the 11 p.m. service at Gaetz United Church.

I can still remember the effects of the flickering candles on the stained glass windows, the carols that were sung and the true meaning of Christmas being shared through a simple message and scripture readings.

Another local highlight for me as a boy was visiting City Hall Park on cold, dark evenings. At the time, the park featured a nativity scene complete with Mary, Joseph, the wise men and of course the baby Jesus. Nestled in the midst of the brightly-lit park with strings of lights decorating the nearby trees, it was a rather powerful sight to behold. It was kind of funny, because the mannequins looked a bit scary to me as a kid, to be honest. But it was still a site that I wanted to see without fail, Christmas season after Christmas season.

I also remember looking out my basement bedroom window to one of our neighbour’s trees in their front yard. It was a spindly thing - but each and every Christmas they decorated it with lots of colourful lights - I loved to just look at that lonely little tree. Admittedly, it may not have caught a passer-by’s eye - but that image is as strongly imprinted in my mind as it ever was.

These days, the season is just as special.

It’s different now in many ways, however. And of course as an adult, I look at it differently.

But the comfort and peace of the season is still there - if you are willing to take the time to look for it. Sit down and listen to a favourite Christmas CD and just let your mind take in both the beauty and the fun of the season. Donate some time at a local shelter - help serve a Christmas dinner, or take a shift for the annual Christmas Kettle campaign held each year by the Salvation Army. As a member of the church, I know firsthand

Mark Weber

Wednesday, December 7, 2016 7

Red Deer Family Celebrations

on what makes the

the need for volunteers.

Anyways, I hope that for you and the ones you love, this Christmas season is very special, meaningful and joyous.

In a world that just never stops, I also hope that you find a bit of peace - and then face 2017 with a brightened and refreshed perspective.

Christmas season special

mark.weber@reddeerexpress.com

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Red Deer Family Celebrations

GIFTS Grandparents

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for

program

seeking

donations

BY MARK WEBER Express staff

With the Christmas season in full swing, it’s important to remember that many across the local community spend the time in relative solitude with little in the way of gifts or support to brighten the holidays.

Family Services of Central Alberta staff and

volunteers are working hard to change that via the eighth annual Gifts for Grandparents program, where folks are asked to donate any number of items that will fill gift bags for seniors across Red Deer this Christmas.

“Like every year, we are calling on the community for donations,” explained Leanne Landry, manager of community relations for Family Services of Central Alberta. In year’s past, it be-

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came increasingly clear, through many of the The workshop to assemble the bags opened on organization’s support initiatives, that many Dec. 5th, and runs Monday to Friday from 9:30 seniors live in isolation. a.m. to 2 p.m. through to Dec. 20th. Daytime de“We are also looking for any referrals for se- liverers are also needed from Dec. 12th through to Dec. 16th. niors who are isolated,” she said.

“We are happy to offer this initiative Meanwhile, there already lots of peoto seniors, and it’s something that ple and groups to give a shout out we talk about every year - there are to, said Landry, including Annie other agencies that help to look L. Gaetz School, where students after kids, and single moms and have decorated bags and made others who are struggling, but Christmas cards for the program we definitely hold it near and for four years now. dear to our hearts that there are “West Park Middle School is seniors that deserve to be treated. also doing a special tea this year It really does brighten their days. for grandparents on Dec. 14th, so they are looking to honour our Some of the thank you cards that come in after this initiative seniors. And Ecole Camille J. are amazing.

Lerouge for their huge “They are overjoyed amounts of donations they give each year. and thankful and so appreciative,” she said, “There are also three lareflecting further on the dies that have joined our feedback. committee and they’ve Organizers are acbeen amazing for last ▾ cepting donations such year’s initiative and this “WE ARE CALLING as lightweight blankets, toiyear - their names are Carol ON THOSE PEOPLE Morgan, Wendy Heggerud and letries for men and women; WHO CAN TO HELP Kathy Reis. mittens, scarves, hats toques and socks; coffee, tea and hot “As a charity, we always look US WITH THIS chocolate; large print books for people to come help, and CAUSE IT’S SUCH (crosswords, Sudoku, word these ladies have definitely A GREAT THING TO searches), magazines; cookies stepped up. They had a lot of HONOUR ISOLATED and candies including those aphours last year in the work shop, propriate for diabetics, crackers and they are signed up for a lot SENIORS. IT TAKES and jam, soups, plus gift cards of shifts again this year.”

A COMMUNITY TO for places like Tim Hortons, For more information, call the COME TOGETHER TO office at 403-343-6400 or visit A&W and Subway and cash doDO SOMETHING LIKE www.fsca.ca. nations (those of $20 or more Landry said it’s a bit of a worry will receive tax receipts).

THIS.” with the ongoing economic Along with the goodies, there struggle across the province, are also pamphlets to better inLeanne Landry form seniors that Family Services but organizers are still calling ▴ of Central Alberta is there for on the community to lend a them throughout the entire year with a number helping hand. of helpful programs.

“We are calling on those people who can to Meanwhile, there are boxes at all three Shoppers help us with this cause - it’s such a great thing Drug Mart locations in the City for folks to drop to honour isolated seniors. off their donations as well.

“It takes a community to come together to do Landry said the goal this year is to deliver 600 something like this,” she said. gift bags to seniors across the community.

For more about donating to the program or Donations must be dropped off by Dec. 14th about volunteer opportunities with Gifts for at Family Services of Central Alberta, which is Grandparents, call Liz Leinweber at 403-309-8215. mark.weber@reddeerexpress.com located at 5409 - 50th Ave.

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Red Deer Family Celebrations

Wednesday, December 7, 2016 9

Pet Feature The Christmas season is a FUN TIME The festive season is a time for family and friends. We love to spoil our furry companions as much as any member of the family. Gifts under the tree, decadent fare at the table, Christmas brings us all that we most enjoy and your pet will enjoy all that extra attention too.

Please remember, all that glitters may not be safe for your pet and so you should exercise some caution around this special season.

Cats love to climb and when that sparkly tree complete with tinsel and hanging decorations enters the house you can literally see felines everywhere limbering up in preparation for their climb through the limbs towards the star on top!

We certainly like to laugh along with their antics, but what won’t be so funny is the cost of the surgery to remove the tinsel obstructing your poor pet’s intestine after they feast on the decorations you hung by the chimney with care.

Whether it’s your dog or cats first Christmas or a senior pet who you think should know better, there will be tasty temptations at every Christmas turn. We recommend you avoid feeding your pet any ‘human food’ and stick to the array of treats designed for their sensitive digestive systems.

Chocolate treats, rich dairy products, bones and leftovers in the garbage could cause harm. Be cautious and keep your furry family member safe. I was once the proud owner of a rescue dog named Whisper. She was particularly fond of Christmas because she came with a predisposed love of cocktails. We found this out the hard way at a festive family gathering. Mysteriously some guests found their glasses half full while Whisper sneakily enjoyed a snifter too many.

Alcohol along with chocolate can be very dangerous to your pet so please invite your guests to keep their drinks and treats out of the reach of all critters.

There is much debate over bringing home a new pet during the festive season. Until recently it was accepted practice to purchase a surprise puppy or kitty as a gift for the family.

Pet store profits skyrocketed at this time of the year to satisfy the demand. The sad reality is that so did the suffering of the poor animals left in tiny cages in large scale breeding facilities

(puppy or kitten mills). These poor creatures were expected to turn out litter after litter in deplorable conditions to support retail sales.

They received no love and affection, and certainly no walks through a winter wonderland.

While puppy mills are still an issue in our province and country, what has changed is the awareness surrounding them. Thanks to social media and the work

Tara Hellewell

of welfare agencies, attitudes towards selling pets in pet stores have changed. As a society it seems that we no longer see this as an acceptable practice.

Online sales do continue to be strong and as a result our shelters are overrun with the lost and unwanted animals of this sad industry. If you believe that mills should be illegal then write to your local member of parliament and share your views. Only when we speak up can we support

for PETS too!

change and bring hope to our furry friends.

If you are considering bringing home a new pet we encourage you to consider a few factors. Is this the best time for you and your family? Does everyone agree to support the demanding needs of the pet? Does your current budget allow for the expected and unexpected cost?

Most humane societies and SPCA’s have a similar process to ensure that all adopt-

ers understand the needs of the pet and help to find a great fit for your situation and lifestyle.

Choosing to adopt an animal from a rescue shelter can be so rewarding and is a gift in itself.

The love of an animal will undoubtedly bring so many benefits from loving companionship to increased exercise (burning off the Christmas pudding)!

We really do love to share in this most wonderful time of the year with all our family members, including the furry

ones. I’m so grateful that in December our shelter sees the most generous of gifts given to support the ongoing care of animals awaiting adoption and that we can support the volunteers and community members who love and value companion animals. We wish you and yours a wonderful season filled with the presence of animals who are loved and safe in your home.

Tara Hellewell is the executive director of the Red Deer & District SPCA.

SANTA CLAWS - Benjamin the cat sat with Santa at the Red Deer SPCA earlier this month. The pet photo session was part of an annual fundraiser for the Zachary Cormier/Red Deer Express SPCA.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Meeting All Your Small Animal Needs •Dr. Greg Linnell •Dr. Craig Kosheluk • Dr. Charlotte MacFarlane

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Ph: 403-346-8288

Fax: 403-346-8286

Located in the Clearview Industrial Park (Clearview Drive - 1 km south of Landfill)

10 Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Red Deer Family Celebrations

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Pet Feature Including your

FURRY FAMILY MEMBERS this holiday season

When you’re busy buying gifts, preparing meals and shopping for the perfect outfit to wear to the office Christmas party, it can be hard to find the time to tend to your four-legged friend’s hygiene. Sound familiar? Don’t worry — the pet grooming salons in your area will be happy to lend a hand.

HEALTH AND CLEANLINESS Professional dog and cat groomers offer a range of services that can improve your pet’s health, appearance and overall well-being. Here are some examples:

• Anal gland cleansing • Flea and tick prevention • Nail clipping and filing • Skin disease and parasite detection and treatment • Fur trimming and shaving • Protective balm application on the nose and paw pads • Nail polish and claw-cover application • Fur chalking or stencilling • Jewellery and fur extension application • Massage therapy or aromatherapy In addition to smelling nice, your dog or cat will look great and feel completely relaxed after getting pampered by expert hands. And why not bring your freshly groomed friend to a photo studio to immortalize their sweet little face?

• Bathing, deodorizing and detangling • Teeth brushing • Ear cleaning or flushing

What should you put under the tree to spoil your little fur ball?

Do you love your dog more than anything in the world? Would you not be able to live without cuddling with your cat? The following gift suggestions are aimed at all pet owners who are unabashedly crazy about their four-legged friends.

The Board of Directors, the Senior Management Team and the more than 140 Staff of the Cosmos Group of Companies would like to take this opportunity to extend

their guardians, supporters andd tto tth i many clients, li t parents, t g dii t customers of our depots. They would also like to thank you for your commitment to thee agency and for your patronage.

RED DEER DEPOTS COSMOS 1 RED DEER #1, 7428 49TH AVENUE HOURS Sat., Dec. 24 – Closed Sun., Dec. 25 – Closed Mon., Dec. 26 – Closed Tues., Dec. 27 – 9:00–5:00 Wed., Dec. 28 – 9:00-5:00 Thurs., Dec. 29 – 9:00-5:00 Fri., Dec. 30 – 9:00-5:00 Sat., Dec. 31 – 9:00-5:00 Sun., Jan. 1 – Closed Mon., Jan. 2 – 9:00-5:00 Tues., Jan. 3 – 9:00-5:00 Wed., Jan. 4 – 9:00-5:00

COSMOS 2 RED DEER 6332 ORR DRIVE HOURS Sat., Dec. 24 – Closed Sun., Dec. 25 – Closed Mon., Dec. 26 – Closed Tues., Dec. 27 – 9:30-5:30 Wed., Dec. 28 – 9:30-5:30 Thurs., Dec. 29 – 9:30-5:30 Fri., Dec. 30 – 9:30-5:30 Sat., Dec. 31 – 9:30-5:30 Sun., Jan. 1 – Closed Mon., Jan. 2 – 9:30-5:30 Tues., Jan. 3 – 9:30-5:30 Wed., Jan. 4 – 9:30-5:30

BLACKFALDS 5405 – SOUTH STREET, EAST HOURS Sat., Dec. 24 – Closed Sun., Dec. 25 – Closed Mon., Dec. 26 – Closed Tues., Dec. 27 – Closed Wed., Dec. 28 – Closed Thurs., Dec. 29 – 9:00-5:00 Fri., Dec. 30 – 9:00-5:00 Sat., Dec. 31 – 9:00-5:00 Sun., Jan. 1 – Closed Mon., Jan. 2 – Closed Tues., Jan. 3 – Closed Wed., Jan. 4 - Closed

If you want to spoil your pet, keep its age and personality in mind. For example, puppies and kittens, which have energy to spare and love to chew things, will adore a colourful toy that they can destroy to their heart’s content.

Is your loyal companion something of a four-legged foodie? Homemade Christmas cookies are a great bet. Go online or visit your local bookstore to find pet-friendly recipes that are as nutritious as they are delicious. These treats are made with healthy ingredients

like oats, eggs and fruit — you may even be tempted to take a few bites yourself (for quality control, of course)!

For an older, calmer pet, keep comfort in mind with a gift like a cozy bed or a soft blanket. If Fido or Mittens hates the cold, pick out a snazzy outfit for trips outside.

Specialized stores have a wide variety of options for you to choose from; think rain boots, jackets, sweaters and even snowsuits. Visit your local pet shops to browse a selection of irresistibly cute designs.

Planning to board your pet for the holidays?

If your holiday plans involve visiting far away loved ones, you might not be able to bring your pet with you. If this ends up being the case, you’ll need to find someone trustworthy to take care of your furry friend while you’re away. Can’t find a sitter? Board your pets at a reputable establishment that will treat them like royalty. Here are three pieces of advice you should follow to make sure your plan goes off without a hitch.

1. Tour the establishments. In the weeks leading up to your trip, ask for a tour of the facilities you’re interested in. During your visit, inspect the cleanliness of the space and inquire about how they entertain the animals, what kind of food they serve, cost, staff training, etc.

2. Think of vaccines. Boarding facilities usually require all animals to be vaccinated against various diseases, such as rabies, canine distemper and kennel cough.

Make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible to make sure that

your pet’s immunization records are up to date.

3. Study the contract. Make sure you’ve read all of the rules and conditions detailed in your

boarding contract before you sign. Contracts should include a list of accepted personal items, such as toys and blankets, as well as the facility’s policy in case of illness, injury or other issues your pet could face during its stay.

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Wednesday, December 7, 2016 11

Red Deer Family Celebrations

Ten Thousand Villages OFFERS PLENTY this Christmas

BY ZACHARY CORMIER Express staff

they’re making the product,” Bale said, noting that the other 50% is sent when the product is ready to be shipped.

The program is part of Mennonite Central Committee When out doing your Christmas shopping this season, you Canada and was originally born from the ideas of Edna may want to stop in at Ten Thousand Villages.

Ruth Byler in 1946.

The little store on 48th St. in Red Deer is “We’ve been going ever since. We’re still much more than just a place that sells unique non-profit, primarily staffed by volunteers,” ▾ and varied merchandise from all over the Bale said, adding there are now 35 stores “WHAT FAIR world — it’s also part of North America’s largacross Canada and 125 in the U.S. TRADE DOES IS est and oldest Fair Trade organization, selling She added that Fair Trade provides choice IT STRENGTHENS artisan-crafted accessories, home decor and to those who create the products and gives gifts from all over the world. the underemployed and the unemployable THE ECONOMY IN “What fair trade does is it strengthens the a chance to earn a living wage.

THE PLACE WHERE economy in the place where the people are.

For example, Bale said, 70% of the artisans THE PEOPLE ARE. It strengthens community, it encourages the who create the product which stocks the IT STRENGTHENS people to be able to still share their culture shelves at Ten Thousand Villages are women. and pass it on to the next generation and it “We have ‘silence cards’ and they are made COMMUNITY, IT gives choice,” said Ten Thousand Villages Red by deaf, mute and blind people or people ENCOURAGES THE Deer Store Manager Tina Bale. with physical deformities that would not PEOPLE TO BE ABLE Many of the artisans who create the prodbe employable in any other way,” Bale said.

TO STILL SHARE ucts which stock the shelves at Ten Thousand Other unique pieces which can be found Villages stores live in developing countries.

THEIR CULTURE AND on the shelves at Ten Thousand Villages are According to their web site, the non-profit pieces of jewellery which are made from PASS IT ON TO THE member of the World Free Trade Organization bomb shell casings by Cambodian artisans.

NEXT GENERATION partners with thousands of artisans who are “It’s incredible,” she said.

AND IT GIVES given the opportunity to earn an honest living “Everybody who has put product into this in a job which brings happiness and joy while CHOICE.” store has done it with their heart.” also providing a home, food and education They also have a way of connecting the Tina Bale for their children. buyer of a product with the maker, which can This is because the idea behind a Fair Trade be a nice thing to include in a Christmas gift. ▴ Organization (FTO) like Ten Thousand The products are all also created in safe Villages is to benefit the artisans, not maximize profit. working conditions for those involved.

“We’re still going strong, still the same mission. It’s always “You know that it’s been environmentally safe, it’s safe for been people before profit. We sell the product and we re-invest the people and it is building community and strengthening into the people and when we place an order with them we community financially where they are. The more they grow give them 50 per cent down so that they can afford to buy the more they can employ other people and make more the supplies that they need without going to money lenders, things for people around the world. They love what they do.” and they can afford to give themselves a pay cheque while zcormier@reddeerexpress.com

The Lacombe Generals recall their own traditions

BY ZACHARY CORMIER Express staff

Christmas traditions come in all different forms. No matter whether you work as a butcher, a baker or a hockey player, everyone tends to celebrate the Christmas season in different ways.

This holds true in sports as well. Some high-level athletes might celebrate Christmas differently than an average person due to competition schedules and training times.

Take, for example, hockey players in the Western Hockey League who tend to only get a few days off to go home for Christmas each year.

“In junior, you were pretty much back and travelling on Boxing Day, you only had a few days to spend at home,” recalled Teegan Moore.

Moore, a former member of the Brandon Wheat Kings, currently plays for the Lacombe Generals of the Chinook Hockey League and said he appreciates the extended twoweek break that players in the ChHL get over Christmas.

“We have the luxury of taking a few weeks off away from the rink, away from the guys and spending some time with the family which I’m sure a lot of guys with families and stuff are really excited about getting those two weeks off to get a little bit of a break, spending time with your family and recharging the batteries.”

The 30-year-old left winger tends to spend his Christmas

breaks ice fishing with his family back in Thompson, Man. “Usually it’s right after we have breakfast we’re on the lake ice fishing Christmas Day and Boxing Day,” Moore said, adding that he’ll be able to spend five or six days at home.

“Most of the time I spend back home in Manitoba is on the lake. Whether it’s winter or summer, fall or spring we’re out there fishing for the better half of the day. Rain or shine.”

During Riley Sheen’s days

Wishing peace and happiness to all at this special time of year.

403.343.1316 1.800.349.7909 1-7703 Edgar Industrial Dr. Red Deer, AB

in the WHL, meanwhile, Christmas was a great time of year because it was a time when the whole family would get to come back together after spending much of the year apart.

“It was nice because I’d have my birthday when I come home from the holidays and stuff but my brother was spending a lot of his time down in North Carolina playing lacrosse on a scholarship. So it was nice when we were able to have the family all back at home, all together,” recalled Sheen, who is in his first season with the Generals this year.

The 21-year-old from

Edmonton played his final season in the WHL in 2015, splitting the time between the Lethbridge Hurricanes and the Red Deer Rebels.

Sheen spent last season playing for the NAIT Ooks in the ACAC. “Especially with my last year in the Western League when I was playing in Red Deer. It was a lot easier. I know my parents really enjoyed that because Cole and I had been gone for a few years in a row there,” he said.

Still, the fact that many of the players tend to return home for the holidays doesn’t mean that

the team won’t be doing something for Christmas together.

“This year the guys, we’ve been talk about trying to organize just a Christmas party of some sort during our last weekend. We’re trying to organize something between the team, maybe like a gift exchange or a Christmas party so that we can get the families all involved after our game,” said Moore.

The Lacombe Generals will play their last game before Christmas on Dec. 17th when they host the Stony Plain Eagles at the Gary Moe Auto Group Sportsplex beginning at 8 p.m. zcormier@reddeerexpress.com

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

All the Best

in 2017!

Earl Dreeshen, MP Red Deer - Mountain View

4315 - 55th Avenue, Suite 100A 403-347-7426 • 1-866-211-0959 • www.earldreeshen.ca

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