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A student's success in school is measured by the assignments completed and tests he takes. The students who garner the best grades and do well in class are often those who are effective listeners and note-takers.
Professor Dennis Jertz of Seton Hall University has said that taking lecture notes effectively is one of the skills students must learn to make the transition from high school to college careers. Note-taking is also necessary in the business world, making it a worthwhile skill to learn.
Despite its importance in higher learning, not much study has gone into the correlation between note-taking and performance improvement. As a result, statistics supporting the importance of effective note-taking do not exist. But it stands to reason that the student who takes good notes, and studies well from them, has a sporting chance to improve his or her grades over others with poor notes.
Learning Note-taking
It may not seem as such, but note-taking can almost be a lesson all its own. If only students could enroll in Note-Taking 101. Some elementary and high-school teachers attempt to teach strategies for taking notes, including developing outlines, but many students still struggle to maintain the essentials as they move through school. It can be confusing knowing just how much to write down without creating a novel or having notes so scant that they provide little information when it comes time to study.
There are many systems of note-taking that a student can learn. These include using graphic representations to map out interconnected concepts. Outlines or charts can group terminology together with related ideas. There are other techniques that use cue words to trigger recollection of facts and dates. Mnemonic devices help recall information. Students can experiment with different methods until they find a system that works well and offers measurable success.
Improving Listening Skills
No matter what method of note-taking is used, adequate listening skills are necessary to take effective notes. This helps students transfer what the professor is saying into ideas that can be put down on paper. Staring off into space or having your mind drift can cause a student to miss out on key parts of a lecture. To improve note-taking skills, a student must first improve listening skills.
Sit up closer to the teacher or professor. This enables eye-to-eye contact that may help a student focus. It may also trigger visual clues to a professor to gauge whether the class is catching on or missing what's being taught. It's also advantageous from a practical standpoint. It enables students to better hear what's going on. If the professor is garbled or inaudible when sitting far away, moving closer is essential, especially in a large lecture hall.
Remove distractions. When a student enters the classroom, he or she should be ready to learn. That means silencing mobile devices and gearing the mind toward the lessons. Not every lecture will be exhilarating, so students should make a conscious effort to pay attention. Limiting distractions can help.
Use an assistance device. Students who are prone to "zoning out" may want to ask permission to use a voice recorder. This way if key elements of the lesson are missed, they can be played back. This method also helps students fill in gaps when taking or studying notes.
Keys To Note-taking
Once listening skills have improved, students can go onto other note-taking pointers.
Sequencing material is important, so notes should be dated and numbered. If references are made to chapters that correlate to the textbook, jot those down so they can strengthen the notes.
Charles Kettering, an American engineer and inventor, said, "There is a great difference between knowing a thing and understanding it." When jotting down notes, a student who discovers that something seems unclear can ask for clarification or make a point to research that component further.
Students should consider writing notes on one side of the page so that they can each be laid out side-by-side. Looseleaf paper works well or notes can be typed and printed out.
Students should develop their own method of abbreviations and symbols to cut down on the amount of writing needed. Notes needn't be in full sentences; phrases are equally effective.
If a professor writes something on a chalkboard, puts text up on a projector or repeats something several times, it should definitely be written down. There is a good chance that information will be on the test.
Students may want to review note-taking strategies with one another. Maybe there is a successful method employed by one student that he or she can share with classmates.
Rewriting or typing notes helps ingrain the information in the brain more than simply rereading it.
Note-taking is an important skill many students should make the effort to learn. Improved test scores can lead to a higher grade point average. This, in turn, can help with success in school and beyond.
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Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Quick Vision Assessment
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Introduction - The signs of visual strain are common, but often go undetected or ignored. Use this tool to do a quick assessment of risk for yourself or your child. If the result show further care is indicated, you will almost certainly feel the benefits of comprehensive vision care. You owe it to yourself and your child to pursue optimal visual function and health. Remove the obstacles to living and learning: It's a kind and prudent thing to do.
1. Put a mark beside each item that applies to you or your child.
2. If the results indicate a likely problem, call 403-933-5552 or write info@dvvc.ca to book an appointment. This is especially important if you are a student or work with books, paper, or computers. Bring this paper with you to the appointment.
Criteria:
15-20 points total = Possible functional vision problems
21-30 points total = Probable functional vision problems
Over 30 points total = Definite functional vision problems
15+ total points = Functional vision evaluation recommended
Introduction - The signs of visual strain are common, but often go undetected or ignored. Use this tool to do a quick assessment of risk for yourself or your child. If the result show further care is indicated, you will almost certainly feel the benefits of comprehensive vision care. You owe it to yourself and your child to pursue optimal visual function and health. Remove the obstacles to living and learning: It's a kind and prudent thing to do.
1. Put a mark beside each item that applies to you or your child.
2. If the results indicate a likely problem, call 403-933-5552 or write info@dvvc.ca to book an appointment. This is especially important if you are a student or work with books, paper, or computers. Bring this paper with you to the appointment.
- Children: Have any concern of learning or reading disability. Counts as 21 pts.
- Skip lines while reading or copying
- Lose your place while reading or copying
- Skip words or letters while reading or copying
- Substitute words while reading or copying
- Reread words or lines
- Reverse letters, numbers or words
- Use a finger or marker to keep place while reading/writing
- Read very slowly
- Poor reading comprehension (unless read to)
- Difficulty remembering what has been read
- Low reading tolerance, can only read for a brief time
- Hold your head too close when reading/writing (within 7-8")
- Squint, close or cover one eye while reading
- Unusual posture (head turn/tilt) when reading/writing
- Headaches following reading/computer work
- Eyes that hurt or feel tired after close work, like phone use or crafts
- Feel unusually tired after completing a visually intensive task
- Double vision: Up and down (vertical)? Side to side (horizontal)? Both (diagonal)?
- Notice vision blurs at distance when looking up from near work (or the reverse)
- Have crooked or poorly spaced writing
- Notice that print seems to move or go in and out of focus
- Have poor spelling skills
- Notice that letters or lines "run together" or words "jump" when reading
- Misalign letters or numbers
- Make errors when copying
- Have difficulty tracking moving objects
- Notice unusual clumsiness, poor concentration
- Have difficulty with sports requiring good hand-eye coordination
- Have an eye that turns in or out, up or down
- See more clearly with one eye than the other
- Feel sleepy while reading
- Dislike visual tasks requiring sustained concentration
- Avoid near tasks such as reading (with children, they might fight you on homework).
- Confuse right and left directions
- Become restless when working at a desk
- Find you must "feel" things to see them
- Experience carsickness, especially when reading while a passenger in a moving car
- Experience unusual (frequent or forced) blinking
- Experience unusual eye rubbing
- Experience dry eyes
- Experience watery eyes
- Experience red eyes
- Have eyes that are bothered by/sensitive to light
Criteria:
15-20 points total = Possible functional vision problems
21-30 points total = Probable functional vision problems
Over 30 points total = Definite functional vision problems
15+ total points = Functional vision evaluation recommended
Millarville’s Cool News ~ Back to School
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Principal Notes
WOW! What a great summer! It is a time of recharging the batteries and creating experiences that will make for wonderful stories once back with friends and colleagues at school. We look forward to welcoming back our students and anticipate many new faces throughout the classes.
I remind all our community that our student days and hours are a bit different this year compared to previous years. I would suggest that you take a look at the new calendar located on the Foothills School Division website. Follow the following course:
Go to:
www.fsd38.ab.ca
Place your cursor over the large print PARENTS
·Click on ANNUAL CALENDAR
·Lower page right is YEAR AT A GLANCE
·Click on ANNUAL CALENDAR 2011-2012
Note the Fridays that students will not be in school. To accommodate this change, Millarville Community School will not have an early dismissal on those Fridays students are in school. Beginning this school year, unless otherwise noted, students will dismiss on Fridays at 2:50pm as is the case for other school days during the week. Staff will be in school as usual for all Fridays for professional development, scheduled meetings and school related business.
Our OPENING DAY FOR STUDENTS is September 1st – a Thursday. We will have our annual pancake and sausage breakfast beginning at 8:30am and culminating in an assembly at approximately 10:00am. Families are invited to attend for this opportunity to meet your neighbours and the MCS staff. Students will then spend their day in their assigned classes. Remember . . . Friday is not an early dismissal day.
We look forward to a productive, positive and energetic year as we continue the adventure that is growing together!
Ted Thorne
Principal
Principal Notes
WOW! What a great summer! It is a time of recharging the batteries and creating experiences that will make for wonderful stories once back with friends and colleagues at school. We look forward to welcoming back our students and anticipate many new faces throughout the classes.
I remind all our community that our student days and hours are a bit different this year compared to previous years. I would suggest that you take a look at the new calendar located on the Foothills School Division website. Follow the following course:
Go to:
www.fsd38.ab.ca
Place your cursor over the large print PARENTS
·Click on ANNUAL CALENDAR
·Lower page right is YEAR AT A GLANCE
·Click on ANNUAL CALENDAR 2011-2012
Note the Fridays that students will not be in school. To accommodate this change, Millarville Community School will not have an early dismissal on those Fridays students are in school. Beginning this school year, unless otherwise noted, students will dismiss on Fridays at 2:50pm as is the case for other school days during the week. Staff will be in school as usual for all Fridays for professional development, scheduled meetings and school related business.
Our OPENING DAY FOR STUDENTS is September 1st – a Thursday. We will have our annual pancake and sausage breakfast beginning at 8:30am and culminating in an assembly at approximately 10:00am. Families are invited to attend for this opportunity to meet your neighbours and the MCS staff. Students will then spend their day in their assigned classes. Remember . . . Friday is not an early dismissal day.
We look forward to a productive, positive and energetic year as we continue the adventure that is growing together!
Ted Thorne
Principal
Longview School - Back to School
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Exciting News at Longview School
It is absolutely wonderful that Ms. England will be returning to Longview School as the grade 1/2 teacher. Ms. England won the 2009 Governor General's Award for Excellence in Teaching Canadian History for the Longview School Branding Project. One of its lasting legacies was the brands and brand histories that were gathered from families in the area and that are on display at Longview School. This project was completed by Mrs. England's Grade One class in 2007. This group of students is now in grade six and entering their last year at Longview School.
We are very fortunate and happy to announce that Ms. Amanda Hoyle will be joining Longview School staff as the Grade 3 / 4 Teacher. Ms. Hoyle will also be our French Teacher for grades 3 to 6 and music teacher for grades 1 to 4. Ms. Hoyle brings to our school many years of experience and training in the area of dance and musical theatre. We will be using her expertise in these areas to enrich our amazing fine arts program, our club activities and our dramatic and musical productions.
We are overjoyed that Ms. Thomson will continue to offer her expertise in early literacy as Longview School's Kindergarten Teacher. We have such an amazing kindergarten program that Ms. Thomson has nurtured and built over the past few years. Kindergarten will continue to be offered full days every Tuesday and Thursday and designated Fridays throughout the school year.
Mr. Chet Musgrove will continue to be our Grade 5 / 6 Teacher and Physical Education Teacher for all students Grades 1 to 6. Mr. Musgrove will be the head of our Physical Education program, coach of our sports teams and coordinator of our outdoor education activities. Mr. Musgrove will again operate a multi-aged intramural program during lunch times on MONDAYS and has added a sport skills program on FRIDAYS for our senior students.
We are also very excited to welcome back our most amazing librarian, Mrs. Dyck. She will continue to offer a library helpers program, organize our literacy week activities and support our soaring literacy program. She makes our library a special and exciting learning centre for all the students and staff of Longview School.
Longview School is a great school! The support we receive from our parents and the community is outstanding! This support helps nurture the growth of our students in their learning. We are looking forward to all the great things planned for this year! See you all on the first day of school, Thursday, September 1st for a continental breakfast and welcome back assembly.
Exciting News at Longview School
It is absolutely wonderful that Ms. England will be returning to Longview School as the grade 1/2 teacher. Ms. England won the 2009 Governor General's Award for Excellence in Teaching Canadian History for the Longview School Branding Project. One of its lasting legacies was the brands and brand histories that were gathered from families in the area and that are on display at Longview School. This project was completed by Mrs. England's Grade One class in 2007. This group of students is now in grade six and entering their last year at Longview School.
We are very fortunate and happy to announce that Ms. Amanda Hoyle will be joining Longview School staff as the Grade 3 / 4 Teacher. Ms. Hoyle will also be our French Teacher for grades 3 to 6 and music teacher for grades 1 to 4. Ms. Hoyle brings to our school many years of experience and training in the area of dance and musical theatre. We will be using her expertise in these areas to enrich our amazing fine arts program, our club activities and our dramatic and musical productions.
We are overjoyed that Ms. Thomson will continue to offer her expertise in early literacy as Longview School's Kindergarten Teacher. We have such an amazing kindergarten program that Ms. Thomson has nurtured and built over the past few years. Kindergarten will continue to be offered full days every Tuesday and Thursday and designated Fridays throughout the school year.
Mr. Chet Musgrove will continue to be our Grade 5 / 6 Teacher and Physical Education Teacher for all students Grades 1 to 6. Mr. Musgrove will be the head of our Physical Education program, coach of our sports teams and coordinator of our outdoor education activities. Mr. Musgrove will again operate a multi-aged intramural program during lunch times on MONDAYS and has added a sport skills program on FRIDAYS for our senior students.
We are also very excited to welcome back our most amazing librarian, Mrs. Dyck. She will continue to offer a library helpers program, organize our literacy week activities and support our soaring literacy program. She makes our library a special and exciting learning centre for all the students and staff of Longview School.
Longview School is a great school! The support we receive from our parents and the community is outstanding! This support helps nurture the growth of our students in their learning. We are looking forward to all the great things planned for this year! See you all on the first day of school, Thursday, September 1st for a continental breakfast and welcome back assembly.
Benefits of Music Study for Children
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Much research has been done on the benefits of music study for children. The benefits go beyond the ability to play music and into other areas of their lives. Music training, specifically piano instruction, enhances children's abstract reasoning skills necessary for learning math and science. Rhythmic movement plays a role in helping children with the reading process. The understanding of music positively enhances problem-solving skills, areas of self-expression, the growth of memory skills, self-confidence and self-esteem. Children can easily use these natural outcomes of studying music to succeed in learning in all areas of their lives.
Much research has been done on the benefits of music study for children. The benefits go beyond the ability to play music and into other areas of their lives. Music training, specifically piano instruction, enhances children's abstract reasoning skills necessary for learning math and science. Rhythmic movement plays a role in helping children with the reading process. The understanding of music positively enhances problem-solving skills, areas of self-expression, the growth of memory skills, self-confidence and self-esteem. Children can easily use these natural outcomes of studying music to succeed in learning in all areas of their lives.
C. Ian McLaren News: Multi-age Classes
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McLaren School is rethinking how we structure our classrooms. It seems that in the last few years, we have too many students for one grade and not enough for two. Because we seem to be on this trend of double grade classes, we are thinking about how to approach this dilemma in a thoughtful proactive way rather than a reactive way.
In education, we use terms such as multi-age, multi-grade (split) or combination classes. Although they all mean two grades in a class, it is the how and why of each that is different. Multi-grades or splits means two grades together with each grade being taught separately.
Multi-age is different. This approach is different than split because it is intentionally planned that students will be in a two grade classroom and will remain in that classroom for two years with the same teacher. Only part of the class would be new each year. This would allow the teacher two years to work with students and spread the content over the two years, rather than trying to compress two curriculums into one year. The class is one learning community that is taught together. The only time there is a distinction between the two grades is for the purposes of assessment, evaluation and reporting.
The benefits of a multi-age class are many. The first is that the teacher gets to know the students and families better over the two years. The sense of community and diversity is enhanced among the students. Independent learning skills are promoted. Students become more self reliant. Teachers' planning reflects greater curriculum scope and integration. Teachers create work that will meet greater expectations for both grades. There is opportunity to reinforce the previous year's learning for the upper grade. The lower grade students rise to meet higher challenges. There are increased opportunities for the older grade in the area of student leadership.
How would this work if we had a two/three class? There would be several things that would be done differently than we have currently done in a “split”. The curriculum would become broader. For example in Language Arts, all students would be learning and taught skills to develop their non-fiction writing but the expectations of work would be different for each of the two grades. The same would apply to math. All would be learning addition or subtraction problem solving but the kinds of work assigned would differ in their levels of difficulty. For social studies and science, it may look a little different as we would mix up the units of both grades. While they are in grade two, they may do some grade three content and while they are in grade three, they may do grade two content but by the end of the two years, students would have been taught all the grade two and three content required by the Alberta government curriculum. When the grade threes move on to grade four with a new teacher, the grade twos would stay with the same teacher for grade three and then grade one students who are moving on to grade two would become a part of that class. The following year, they would move up to grade three with that same teacher and a new group of grade twos would join that class.
Naysayers may say that children will have a lesser experience in a multi-age class than a straight grade. However the research indicates that high quality teaching and leadership by the classroom teacher are the key factors in improved achievement. Being in a combined grade does not negatively affect student performance. Combined classes allow more leeway for children's naturally uneven academic, social and emotional development. Students in combined classes also have a more positive view of themselves as learners.
The concept of combined classes is not a new one. From one room school houses to the present day, combined classes have always been a part of schools. Our mission is to do this in a way that is thoughtful about the way we help our students to learn and interact with each other. We welcome feedback and questions from our parent community. Please contact Mrs. Jones or Mrs. Forchuk if you have questions or would like to discuss this in more detail.
McLaren School is rethinking how we structure our classrooms. It seems that in the last few years, we have too many students for one grade and not enough for two. Because we seem to be on this trend of double grade classes, we are thinking about how to approach this dilemma in a thoughtful proactive way rather than a reactive way.
In education, we use terms such as multi-age, multi-grade (split) or combination classes. Although they all mean two grades in a class, it is the how and why of each that is different. Multi-grades or splits means two grades together with each grade being taught separately.
Multi-age is different. This approach is different than split because it is intentionally planned that students will be in a two grade classroom and will remain in that classroom for two years with the same teacher. Only part of the class would be new each year. This would allow the teacher two years to work with students and spread the content over the two years, rather than trying to compress two curriculums into one year. The class is one learning community that is taught together. The only time there is a distinction between the two grades is for the purposes of assessment, evaluation and reporting.
The benefits of a multi-age class are many. The first is that the teacher gets to know the students and families better over the two years. The sense of community and diversity is enhanced among the students. Independent learning skills are promoted. Students become more self reliant. Teachers' planning reflects greater curriculum scope and integration. Teachers create work that will meet greater expectations for both grades. There is opportunity to reinforce the previous year's learning for the upper grade. The lower grade students rise to meet higher challenges. There are increased opportunities for the older grade in the area of student leadership.
How would this work if we had a two/three class? There would be several things that would be done differently than we have currently done in a “split”. The curriculum would become broader. For example in Language Arts, all students would be learning and taught skills to develop their non-fiction writing but the expectations of work would be different for each of the two grades. The same would apply to math. All would be learning addition or subtraction problem solving but the kinds of work assigned would differ in their levels of difficulty. For social studies and science, it may look a little different as we would mix up the units of both grades. While they are in grade two, they may do some grade three content and while they are in grade three, they may do grade two content but by the end of the two years, students would have been taught all the grade two and three content required by the Alberta government curriculum. When the grade threes move on to grade four with a new teacher, the grade twos would stay with the same teacher for grade three and then grade one students who are moving on to grade two would become a part of that class. The following year, they would move up to grade three with that same teacher and a new group of grade twos would join that class.
Naysayers may say that children will have a lesser experience in a multi-age class than a straight grade. However the research indicates that high quality teaching and leadership by the classroom teacher are the key factors in improved achievement. Being in a combined grade does not negatively affect student performance. Combined classes allow more leeway for children's naturally uneven academic, social and emotional development. Students in combined classes also have a more positive view of themselves as learners.
The concept of combined classes is not a new one. From one room school houses to the present day, combined classes have always been a part of schools. Our mission is to do this in a way that is thoughtful about the way we help our students to learn and interact with each other. We welcome feedback and questions from our parent community. Please contact Mrs. Jones or Mrs. Forchuk if you have questions or would like to discuss this in more detail.
Pharmasave steps up to assist the Sheep River Library
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A generous donation from Pharmasave Black Diamond will help the Sheep River Library obtain licenses for movies shown at the library.
Jason and Deidre Spicer, owner/operators of Pharmasave Black Diamond, approached the library board earlier this spring with an offer to help with a donation toward a specific need. The board targeted movie licensing as a prime concern. “We need to purchase licenses from two major agencies that protect copyright,” explained Jan Burney, the new library manager.
In acknowledgment of this generous donation, a new library program named “Pharmasave Friday Films” will offer movies for children, to be shown on upcoming teacher professional development days this fall. The Dog Tooth Mountain Film Group will also benefit from having proper licensing for their film presentations. And the library is planning a book and movie discussion group, which will also be covered by this generous donation.
A generous donation from Pharmasave Black Diamond will help the Sheep River Library obtain licenses for movies shown at the library.
Jason and Deidre Spicer, owner/operators of Pharmasave Black Diamond, approached the library board earlier this spring with an offer to help with a donation toward a specific need. The board targeted movie licensing as a prime concern. “We need to purchase licenses from two major agencies that protect copyright,” explained Jan Burney, the new library manager.
In acknowledgment of this generous donation, a new library program named “Pharmasave Friday Films” will offer movies for children, to be shown on upcoming teacher professional development days this fall. The Dog Tooth Mountain Film Group will also benefit from having proper licensing for their film presentations. And the library is planning a book and movie discussion group, which will also be covered by this generous donation.
The Oral Health Connection: Sport Mouth Guards: Why a custom fit is important!
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By Penny Judson-Benny ~ Registered Dental Hygienist
Mouth guards are flexible plastic devices that protect a person's teeth and mouth from injury during athletics and other activities. Mouth guards cover the teeth and are typically worn to protect teeth during activities that leave the teeth vulnerable to injury. In addition to protecting the mouth, they can act as a shock absorber to prevent the lower jaw from being jammed into the upper jaw during blows to the head, face or neck. This can prevent conditions such as concussions, cerebral hemorrhages, unconsciousness, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation and neck injuries. Mouth guards should be used by anyone (children AND adults) who plays contact sports such as football, boxing, soccer, hockey, basketball, lacrosse and any rodeo activities. However, even those participating in non contact sports (ie gymnastics, horsemanship, skateboarding and mountain biking) that might pose a risk of injury to the mouth, would benefit from wearing a protective mouth guard.
There are three types of mouth guards:
1/ Stock mouth protectors are preformed and come ready to wear. They are inexpensive and can be bought at most sporting goods stores. However, little can be done to adjust their fit, they are bulky and make breathing and talking difficult and they provide little or no protection. These type of guards are NOT recommended by the dental community.
2/ Boil and bite mouth protectors also can be bought at many sporting goods stores and may offer a better fit than the stock mouth protectors. The 'boil and bite' mouth guard is made from thermoplastic material. It is placed in hot water to soften, then placed in the mouth and shaped around the teeth using fingers and mouth pressure.
3/ Custom-fitted mouth protectors are individually designed and made in a dental/dental hygiene office or a professional laboratory. An impression of the teeth is taken and a mouth guard is then molded over the model using a special material. Due to the use of special material and because of the extra time and work involved, this custom-made mouth guard is more expensive than the other types, but it provides the most comfort, best fit and protection.
Mouth guards usually need minimal care. They should be washed with soap and lukewarm water and soaked in mouthwash before being stored in a well-ventilated plastic container. Mouth guards should not be left in areas of high temperature (ie hot surfaces, hot water or direct sunlight) to minimize distortion in shape.
Why a custom fit is the best fit!
Protection - a mouth guard should fit the individual's dentition. It is best to have double-laminated material for superior strength and shock dispersion which greatly dissipates the possibility of tooth damage and concussions.
Speech – a custom fit mouth guard is designed and fitted to an athlete's mouth like a glove fits a hand. This means that communication on the field, rink or court is clear to everyone. This can make a winning difference. Store bought mouth guards are thick and clumsy in the mouth. Traditional mouth guards prohibit clear speech.
Comfort – A mouth guard should feel natural in the mouth. A comfortable and secure fit will ensure that an athlete will keep it in place while in play. Compliance is important! Store bought mouth guards are either too tight or too loose. They are so uncomfortable that there is a good chance an athlete won't wear it or can accidentally choke on it.
Oxygen – Proper breathing and oxygen intake during a sport activity are crucial. It improves performance and reduces the chance of muscle fatigue. Custom fit mouth guards were designed by dental and sports professionals- the ones who recognize the importance of having a good flow of oxygen. Generic, clunky mouth guards can restrict oxygen uptake by up to 25%!
Over time mouth guards may wear out, which reduces their ability to protect the mouth and teeth. For these reasons, mouth guards should be replaced as soon as they develop holes or tears, or once they become loose.
'Keep your smile for a lifetime'!
Penny Judson-Benny, RDH, is the owner and operator of Mountain View Dental Hygiene Clinic in Black Diamond and can be contacted at 403-933-7722.
By Penny Judson-Benny ~ Registered Dental Hygienist
Mouth guards are flexible plastic devices that protect a person's teeth and mouth from injury during athletics and other activities. Mouth guards cover the teeth and are typically worn to protect teeth during activities that leave the teeth vulnerable to injury. In addition to protecting the mouth, they can act as a shock absorber to prevent the lower jaw from being jammed into the upper jaw during blows to the head, face or neck. This can prevent conditions such as concussions, cerebral hemorrhages, unconsciousness, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation and neck injuries. Mouth guards should be used by anyone (children AND adults) who plays contact sports such as football, boxing, soccer, hockey, basketball, lacrosse and any rodeo activities. However, even those participating in non contact sports (ie gymnastics, horsemanship, skateboarding and mountain biking) that might pose a risk of injury to the mouth, would benefit from wearing a protective mouth guard.
There are three types of mouth guards:
1/ Stock mouth protectors are preformed and come ready to wear. They are inexpensive and can be bought at most sporting goods stores. However, little can be done to adjust their fit, they are bulky and make breathing and talking difficult and they provide little or no protection. These type of guards are NOT recommended by the dental community.
2/ Boil and bite mouth protectors also can be bought at many sporting goods stores and may offer a better fit than the stock mouth protectors. The 'boil and bite' mouth guard is made from thermoplastic material. It is placed in hot water to soften, then placed in the mouth and shaped around the teeth using fingers and mouth pressure.
3/ Custom-fitted mouth protectors are individually designed and made in a dental/dental hygiene office or a professional laboratory. An impression of the teeth is taken and a mouth guard is then molded over the model using a special material. Due to the use of special material and because of the extra time and work involved, this custom-made mouth guard is more expensive than the other types, but it provides the most comfort, best fit and protection.
Mouth guards usually need minimal care. They should be washed with soap and lukewarm water and soaked in mouthwash before being stored in a well-ventilated plastic container. Mouth guards should not be left in areas of high temperature (ie hot surfaces, hot water or direct sunlight) to minimize distortion in shape.
Why a custom fit is the best fit!
Protection - a mouth guard should fit the individual's dentition. It is best to have double-laminated material for superior strength and shock dispersion which greatly dissipates the possibility of tooth damage and concussions.
Speech – a custom fit mouth guard is designed and fitted to an athlete's mouth like a glove fits a hand. This means that communication on the field, rink or court is clear to everyone. This can make a winning difference. Store bought mouth guards are thick and clumsy in the mouth. Traditional mouth guards prohibit clear speech.
Comfort – A mouth guard should feel natural in the mouth. A comfortable and secure fit will ensure that an athlete will keep it in place while in play. Compliance is important! Store bought mouth guards are either too tight or too loose. They are so uncomfortable that there is a good chance an athlete won't wear it or can accidentally choke on it.
Oxygen – Proper breathing and oxygen intake during a sport activity are crucial. It improves performance and reduces the chance of muscle fatigue. Custom fit mouth guards were designed by dental and sports professionals- the ones who recognize the importance of having a good flow of oxygen. Generic, clunky mouth guards can restrict oxygen uptake by up to 25%!
Over time mouth guards may wear out, which reduces their ability to protect the mouth and teeth. For these reasons, mouth guards should be replaced as soon as they develop holes or tears, or once they become loose.
'Keep your smile for a lifetime'!
Penny Judson-Benny, RDH, is the owner and operator of Mountain View Dental Hygiene Clinic in Black Diamond and can be contacted at 403-933-7722.
Longview School - Let Learning Soar
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
With the expertise of Mrs. Graham and assistance of Mrs. Roberts, grade 5 students will continue to learn guitar as part of the music program at Longview School. Students very much enjoy the lessons and greatly appreciate Mrs. Graham taking the time to share her skill and talent with them. Our grade six students will attend band at Oilfields High School every Wednesday and Thursday afternoon. Mrs. Graham has enjoyed the Journal and Art Club and will continue to offer this enriching activity.
We have Club Tuesdays planned for every TUESDAY at lunch time. Every month the club activity will change. A variety of club activities will be planned by Ms. Thomson, Mrs. Roberts, Ms. Hoyle and Ms. England. There will be something for everyone to join and enjoy from crafts to cooking, from games to dance.
Mrs. Winfield invites students to join her multimedia club next year scheduled for WEDNESDAYS at lunch time. Students will be involved in creating multimedia presentations for assemblies, writing the school newspaper, assembling the yearbook, adding to the school web page and sharing news as Longview School reporters. Mrs. Winfield (Educational Assistant) and Judy Usborne (Learning Support Teacher) will continue to offer outstanding learning support to our students.
FRIDAY afternoons we have again scheduled Eagle Pride Time. We are planning school wide Eagle Pride activities for all the students to participate in. Longview Students are very proud of their school. They take pride in being an eagle and proudly wear the school colours of blue and gold. Our motto, Once an Eagle always an Eagle, is about the qualities, characteristics and behaviors we expect from and foster in our students. It is about what touches the heart and makes our students better athletes, better students and better people.
Many exciting art, music, drama and sports activities and experiences are being planned for our students. And of course, we have already scheduled on the calendar our Thanksgiving assembly, Halloween carnival, Remembrance Day assembly, Christmas Performance, Talent Days, Spring Theatre, Eagles Expo, as well as, a number of other special occasions, activities and special guests.
Longview School is a great school! The support we receive from our parents and the community is outstanding! This support helps nurture the growth of our students in their learning. We are looking forward to all the great things planned for this year! See you all on the first day of school, Thursday, September 1st for a continental breakfast and welcome back assembly.
With the expertise of Mrs. Graham and assistance of Mrs. Roberts, grade 5 students will continue to learn guitar as part of the music program at Longview School. Students very much enjoy the lessons and greatly appreciate Mrs. Graham taking the time to share her skill and talent with them. Our grade six students will attend band at Oilfields High School every Wednesday and Thursday afternoon. Mrs. Graham has enjoyed the Journal and Art Club and will continue to offer this enriching activity.
We have Club Tuesdays planned for every TUESDAY at lunch time. Every month the club activity will change. A variety of club activities will be planned by Ms. Thomson, Mrs. Roberts, Ms. Hoyle and Ms. England. There will be something for everyone to join and enjoy from crafts to cooking, from games to dance.
Mrs. Winfield invites students to join her multimedia club next year scheduled for WEDNESDAYS at lunch time. Students will be involved in creating multimedia presentations for assemblies, writing the school newspaper, assembling the yearbook, adding to the school web page and sharing news as Longview School reporters. Mrs. Winfield (Educational Assistant) and Judy Usborne (Learning Support Teacher) will continue to offer outstanding learning support to our students.
FRIDAY afternoons we have again scheduled Eagle Pride Time. We are planning school wide Eagle Pride activities for all the students to participate in. Longview Students are very proud of their school. They take pride in being an eagle and proudly wear the school colours of blue and gold. Our motto, Once an Eagle always an Eagle, is about the qualities, characteristics and behaviors we expect from and foster in our students. It is about what touches the heart and makes our students better athletes, better students and better people.
Many exciting art, music, drama and sports activities and experiences are being planned for our students. And of course, we have already scheduled on the calendar our Thanksgiving assembly, Halloween carnival, Remembrance Day assembly, Christmas Performance, Talent Days, Spring Theatre, Eagles Expo, as well as, a number of other special occasions, activities and special guests.
Longview School is a great school! The support we receive from our parents and the community is outstanding! This support helps nurture the growth of our students in their learning. We are looking forward to all the great things planned for this year! See you all on the first day of school, Thursday, September 1st for a continental breakfast and welcome back assembly.
Bragg Creek Explores FireSmart Initiative
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
Several Bragg Creek and area residents, stakeholders and agencies have drafted a plan based on the Province's FireSmart initiative to help to mitigate the threat of wildfires to the community. The draft plan is known as the Greater Bragg Creek FireSmart Mitigation Strategy.
The plan development process included assessing present wildland/ urban interface site hazards, reviewing current and historic wildfire history in the area, studying existing municipal documents and guidelines directing development and reviewing present emergency fire response plans, interagency cooperation, and cross-training. Based on the findings, recommendations and an implementation strategy were developed using the seven disciplines of wildland/ urban interface approach.
1. Vegetation management
2. Development
3. Public education
4. Legislation
5. Interagency cooperation
6. Cross-training
7. Emergency planning
The draft of the plan can be read at:
www.rockyview.ca by following the tabs: Departments; Emergency Services; FireSmart.
Some residents are expressing concerns that this plan could increase logging in the Kananaskis area.
Others see the current emergency evacuation routes as a major problem.
FireSmart, an initiative of the Alberta Provincial Sustainable Resource Development department, helps protect homes and communities from the threat of wildfire. Using fire-resistant materials on buildings and following simple landscaping practices will help create a FireSmart community.
FireSmart...
· Can reduce the likelihood of large uncontrollable wildfires in Alberta's forests.
· Can improve the habitat for a number of species found in Alberta's forests.
· Recognizes the benefit of introducing the controlled application of fire to sensitive and protected areas of the forest (prescribed fire).
· Is built on partnerships between government, industry and homeowners.
Wildfires burn regardless of administrative boundaries.
Also on the Alberta Government's website at: http://srd.alberta.ca/Wildfire/FireSmart/Default.aspx you can find a Homeowners FireSmart Manual that contains tips, advice and a checklist.
Several Bragg Creek and area residents, stakeholders and agencies have drafted a plan based on the Province's FireSmart initiative to help to mitigate the threat of wildfires to the community. The draft plan is known as the Greater Bragg Creek FireSmart Mitigation Strategy.
The plan development process included assessing present wildland/ urban interface site hazards, reviewing current and historic wildfire history in the area, studying existing municipal documents and guidelines directing development and reviewing present emergency fire response plans, interagency cooperation, and cross-training. Based on the findings, recommendations and an implementation strategy were developed using the seven disciplines of wildland/ urban interface approach.
1. Vegetation management
2. Development
3. Public education
4. Legislation
5. Interagency cooperation
6. Cross-training
7. Emergency planning
The draft of the plan can be read at:
www.rockyview.ca by following the tabs: Departments; Emergency Services; FireSmart.
Some residents are expressing concerns that this plan could increase logging in the Kananaskis area.
Others see the current emergency evacuation routes as a major problem.
FireSmart, an initiative of the Alberta Provincial Sustainable Resource Development department, helps protect homes and communities from the threat of wildfire. Using fire-resistant materials on buildings and following simple landscaping practices will help create a FireSmart community.
FireSmart...
· Can reduce the likelihood of large uncontrollable wildfires in Alberta's forests.
· Can improve the habitat for a number of species found in Alberta's forests.
· Recognizes the benefit of introducing the controlled application of fire to sensitive and protected areas of the forest (prescribed fire).
· Is built on partnerships between government, industry and homeowners.
Wildfires burn regardless of administrative boundaries.
Also on the Alberta Government's website at: http://srd.alberta.ca/Wildfire/FireSmart/Default.aspx you can find a Homeowners FireSmart Manual that contains tips, advice and a checklist.
Legion Leanings
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
There are exciting events coming up at the Legion in the near future. Members and Guests as well as non-members are welcome at these functions which include the Second Annual Hog Roast and entertainment on Saturday August 20th.
The regular seniors' dinner scheduled for Monday, August 29th will feature roast beef with all the trimmings, while a family corn roast is planned for Saturday, September 17th. Family fun and games will highlight this event and all are welcome.
Tickets for all these events are available at the Branch.
A very special event is planned for October 1st when the Branch will honour area veterans with a dinner. All veterans whether members of the Legion or not are invited to this special salute to and thanks for their past service. If there are any current serving members who are available, they are also welcome to join us. Please contact the Branch for further information. Service Medals may be worn whether in uniform or not.
Golf at TVGCC is still the in-season sport on a Thursday evening with some forty members taking part. We wish to thank the golf club professionals, Pro-Shop as well as F&B staff for making this a fun and enjoyable evening for all.
Crib will soon take over on a Thursday evening starting at 7:00pm, while darts and pool will resume on their regular evenings in the early Fall.
Our August Memorial Service at the cenotaph recognised and paid tribute to associated Canadian efforts and losses throughout our history, emph-asising among others, Dieppe, VJ Day, Sicily and Normandy.
In September, regular executive and general meetings will be back on the agenda and in conjunction with our comrades and members from Bragg Creek, we will be attending the re-dedication of their enhanced Cenotaph. Our own September memorial event will be held at noon on Sunday September 11th. All are welcome as we continue with our monthly tribute to those who fell in the service of our country in conflicts associated with that month.
Don't forget our regular canteen hours with buffet dinners available on Wednesday and Friday evenings from 5:00 or 5:30 to 7:00pm. The kitchen also extends a welcome on Thursday and Saturday evenings with a menu of favourite meals and opens on a Saturday morning from 9:00am to noon for breakfast.
Serving our Veterans,
Seniors, Youth and
the Community.
Comrade Malcolm Hughes
Branch #78
Turner Valley
There are exciting events coming up at the Legion in the near future. Members and Guests as well as non-members are welcome at these functions which include the Second Annual Hog Roast and entertainment on Saturday August 20th.
The regular seniors' dinner scheduled for Monday, August 29th will feature roast beef with all the trimmings, while a family corn roast is planned for Saturday, September 17th. Family fun and games will highlight this event and all are welcome.
Tickets for all these events are available at the Branch.
A very special event is planned for October 1st when the Branch will honour area veterans with a dinner. All veterans whether members of the Legion or not are invited to this special salute to and thanks for their past service. If there are any current serving members who are available, they are also welcome to join us. Please contact the Branch for further information. Service Medals may be worn whether in uniform or not.
Golf at TVGCC is still the in-season sport on a Thursday evening with some forty members taking part. We wish to thank the golf club professionals, Pro-Shop as well as F&B staff for making this a fun and enjoyable evening for all.
Crib will soon take over on a Thursday evening starting at 7:00pm, while darts and pool will resume on their regular evenings in the early Fall.
Our August Memorial Service at the cenotaph recognised and paid tribute to associated Canadian efforts and losses throughout our history, emph-asising among others, Dieppe, VJ Day, Sicily and Normandy.
In September, regular executive and general meetings will be back on the agenda and in conjunction with our comrades and members from Bragg Creek, we will be attending the re-dedication of their enhanced Cenotaph. Our own September memorial event will be held at noon on Sunday September 11th. All are welcome as we continue with our monthly tribute to those who fell in the service of our country in conflicts associated with that month.
Don't forget our regular canteen hours with buffet dinners available on Wednesday and Friday evenings from 5:00 or 5:30 to 7:00pm. The kitchen also extends a welcome on Thursday and Saturday evenings with a menu of favourite meals and opens on a Saturday morning from 9:00am to noon for breakfast.
Serving our Veterans,
Seniors, Youth and
the Community.
Comrade Malcolm Hughes
Branch #78
Turner Valley
Legion Recognized For 9/11 Tributes
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
The two flags in the photographs to the left are the City of New York and the New York Fire Department flags.
These flags were brought back to Turner Valley from Cut Bank, Montana following their 33rd Annual Lewis and Clark Days Festival where they were presented by Councillor and Former Mayor of Cut Bank, Bill McCauley, to a Canadian contingency representing the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 78, the Towns of Black Diamond, Nanton and Turner Valley.
The flags are honouring the Legions Tribute to 9/11 which is hosted every year by the Turner Valley Legion.
Black Diamond, Cut Bank, Nanton and Turner Valley are Sister Cities.
Turner Valley Mayor, Kelly Tuck, Firefighters, Grant Sinclair and Jeff Bates from the Turner Valley Fire Department, Don Russell, Legion President, Michel Jackson and Past President, Gordon Day were present to receive the flags into the Legion.
The flags will be presented to the Sister Cities on a rotational basis and returned to Cut Bank next year.
The two flags in the photographs to the left are the City of New York and the New York Fire Department flags.
These flags were brought back to Turner Valley from Cut Bank, Montana following their 33rd Annual Lewis and Clark Days Festival where they were presented by Councillor and Former Mayor of Cut Bank, Bill McCauley, to a Canadian contingency representing the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 78, the Towns of Black Diamond, Nanton and Turner Valley.
The flags are honouring the Legions Tribute to 9/11 which is hosted every year by the Turner Valley Legion.
Black Diamond, Cut Bank, Nanton and Turner Valley are Sister Cities.
Turner Valley Mayor, Kelly Tuck, Firefighters, Grant Sinclair and Jeff Bates from the Turner Valley Fire Department, Don Russell, Legion President, Michel Jackson and Past President, Gordon Day were present to receive the flags into the Legion.
The flags will be presented to the Sister Cities on a rotational basis and returned to Cut Bank next year.
West Coast Trail - Exhaustingly Breathtaking
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
On July 22nd the 1st Oilfields Turner Valley Venturer Scouts & Rover Scouts headed out to the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island for a 7 day trek. The Trail is 75km of mud, tree roots, beaches and ladders that stretches from Bamfield to Port Renfrew on the far west coast of Vancouver Island. This trip also helps these scouts towards their gold-level Duke of Edinburgh Award accreditation.
In spite of all of the prior preparation, the trip wasn't without its challenges. A vehicle breakdown in Revelstoke on the way there stole 24 hours from the travel plan, leading to an exhausted arrival in Port Renfrew and 3 hours of sleep before catching the 6:30am water taxi to Bamfield, and our starting point. Nonetheless, we overcame and arrived on schedule, after seeing whales, sea-lions and bald eagles on our trip up the coast.
For more information on the Venturer Scout and Rover Scout programs with Scouts Canada go to:
http://www.scouts.ca, and contact Debby Dyer at m_ddyer@telusplanet.net for information on 1st Oilfields Turner Valley Scouting. For more information on the Duke of Edinburgh Award, which is open to all citizens of the Commonwealth between the ages of 14 and 25, go to http://www.dukeofed.org.
Information and photographs provided by Shawn Rose. We encourage you to access our expanded, online edition to read more details on this exceptional excursion. Access is free by visiting www.gatewaygazette.ca and navigating to the “Readers” section through the main menu at the top of the site.
On July 22nd the 1st Oilfields Turner Valley Venturer Scouts & Rover Scouts headed out to the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island for a 7 day trek. The Trail is 75km of mud, tree roots, beaches and ladders that stretches from Bamfield to Port Renfrew on the far west coast of Vancouver Island. This trip also helps these scouts towards their gold-level Duke of Edinburgh Award accreditation.
In spite of all of the prior preparation, the trip wasn't without its challenges. A vehicle breakdown in Revelstoke on the way there stole 24 hours from the travel plan, leading to an exhausted arrival in Port Renfrew and 3 hours of sleep before catching the 6:30am water taxi to Bamfield, and our starting point. Nonetheless, we overcame and arrived on schedule, after seeing whales, sea-lions and bald eagles on our trip up the coast.
For more information on the Venturer Scout and Rover Scout programs with Scouts Canada go to:
http://www.scouts.ca, and contact Debby Dyer at m_ddyer@telusplanet.net for information on 1st Oilfields Turner Valley Scouting. For more information on the Duke of Edinburgh Award, which is open to all citizens of the Commonwealth between the ages of 14 and 25, go to http://www.dukeofed.org.
Information and photographs provided by Shawn Rose. We encourage you to access our expanded, online edition to read more details on this exceptional excursion. Access is free by visiting www.gatewaygazette.ca and navigating to the “Readers” section through the main menu at the top of the site.
Travel Tracks: *The 1st 16 YEARS*
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
It started out as a casual conversation while booking a trip to Mexico.
“Let me know if you ever decide to retire,” I said to the founder of Pace Setter Travel & Tours, “I might be interested in buying the company.”
Faster than the flap of a hummingbird's wingtip came the response, “let me know when you're ready to cut the cheque and I'll retire.”
In the weeks that followed I was to gain a new appreciation of the saying “be careful what you ask for in the event you get it.”
Trial by fire would be an understatement in describing the first sixteen years.
On the first day of the new ownership, the landlord at the time introduced herself to advise that the old company was on a month to month lease and that effective immediately the rent was going up by 50%.
I thanked her and advised that under the terms and conditions of the month to month agreement, we'd be vacating the premises within 30 days.
Just perfect – in less time than it takes to watch the morning news, I'd bought a business that I knew very little about and was on the verge of plunging it into homelessness.
Within a week we'd managed to sublet space in our current location, the size of which was about the size of two phone booths interconnected by a trap door.
A couple of weeks after taking possession, burglars entered in the middle of the night, peeled the door off a nine hundred pound safe and made off with that day's receipts which if memory serves correct was about twelve dollars.
A couple of months later after returning from having escorted a group to Cuba, I discovered the office had been vacated and the two former employees had opened a competing office down the street having told all that would listen that we'd filed for bankruptcy and fled the country.
Blood pressure went up a bit at that point however when THEIR new digs shut their doors in the middle of the night a few weeks later – it went back down again.
Time to surge forward with a move into larger premises in the same mall, and in the years that followed there was never a shortage of adventure punctuated by the odd heart stopper.
The group to Fiji, which on the last day got nailed by a cyclone and had to be evacuated by helicopter in the dark. forty-eight passengers. One - four passenger helicopter. Lotta trips in the midst of a storm.
The group to Venezuela which included a wild ride in a tour bus – on a sidewalk.
Holding a tiger cub in Thailand.
Hiking in Antarctica.
Diving the coral reefs in the South China seas.
Finding ourselves in Hong Kong three days before SARS hit.
Exploring the Galapagos on a chartered private yacht.
Playing with baby Orangutans in Borneo.
Photographing prides of lions from a distance of three meters in Tanzania.
And far more than anyone really deserves to experience in 1 lifetime.
So much for the 1st sixteen years.
August 29th, 2011 marks the beginning of a new chapter as we say goodbye to the old home with a move into our new headquarters in the Olde Town area of Okotoks.
To all of you who have played a significant role in allowing us to thrive over the past sixteen years, a thank you that words alone cannot adequately express.
And to those who will join us for the ride over the next sixteen years – *buckle up*.
It promises to be a hell of a ride.
Adios until next time
Dave Heron
Dave Heron is the owner and operator of: Pace Setter Travel & Tours (1995) Inc
Box 612, 49 Elizabeth Street
Okotoks, Alberta
T1S 1A7
Tel: 403.938.5454
Fax: 403.938.5568
Toll Free: 1.800.206.7223
pacesetter@nucleus.com
www.pacesettertravel.ca
It started out as a casual conversation while booking a trip to Mexico.
“Let me know if you ever decide to retire,” I said to the founder of Pace Setter Travel & Tours, “I might be interested in buying the company.”
Faster than the flap of a hummingbird's wingtip came the response, “let me know when you're ready to cut the cheque and I'll retire.”
In the weeks that followed I was to gain a new appreciation of the saying “be careful what you ask for in the event you get it.”
Trial by fire would be an understatement in describing the first sixteen years.
On the first day of the new ownership, the landlord at the time introduced herself to advise that the old company was on a month to month lease and that effective immediately the rent was going up by 50%.
I thanked her and advised that under the terms and conditions of the month to month agreement, we'd be vacating the premises within 30 days.
Just perfect – in less time than it takes to watch the morning news, I'd bought a business that I knew very little about and was on the verge of plunging it into homelessness.
Within a week we'd managed to sublet space in our current location, the size of which was about the size of two phone booths interconnected by a trap door.
A couple of weeks after taking possession, burglars entered in the middle of the night, peeled the door off a nine hundred pound safe and made off with that day's receipts which if memory serves correct was about twelve dollars.
A couple of months later after returning from having escorted a group to Cuba, I discovered the office had been vacated and the two former employees had opened a competing office down the street having told all that would listen that we'd filed for bankruptcy and fled the country.
Blood pressure went up a bit at that point however when THEIR new digs shut their doors in the middle of the night a few weeks later – it went back down again.
Time to surge forward with a move into larger premises in the same mall, and in the years that followed there was never a shortage of adventure punctuated by the odd heart stopper.
The group to Fiji, which on the last day got nailed by a cyclone and had to be evacuated by helicopter in the dark. forty-eight passengers. One - four passenger helicopter. Lotta trips in the midst of a storm.
The group to Venezuela which included a wild ride in a tour bus – on a sidewalk.
Holding a tiger cub in Thailand.
Hiking in Antarctica.
Diving the coral reefs in the South China seas.
Finding ourselves in Hong Kong three days before SARS hit.
Exploring the Galapagos on a chartered private yacht.
Playing with baby Orangutans in Borneo.
Photographing prides of lions from a distance of three meters in Tanzania.
And far more than anyone really deserves to experience in 1 lifetime.
So much for the 1st sixteen years.
August 29th, 2011 marks the beginning of a new chapter as we say goodbye to the old home with a move into our new headquarters in the Olde Town area of Okotoks.
To all of you who have played a significant role in allowing us to thrive over the past sixteen years, a thank you that words alone cannot adequately express.
And to those who will join us for the ride over the next sixteen years – *buckle up*.
It promises to be a hell of a ride.
Adios until next time
Dave Heron
Dave Heron is the owner and operator of: Pace Setter Travel & Tours (1995) Inc
Box 612, 49 Elizabeth Street
Okotoks, Alberta
T1S 1A7
Tel: 403.938.5454
Fax: 403.938.5568
Toll Free: 1.800.206.7223
pacesetter@nucleus.com
www.pacesettertravel.ca
Longview Link: WILD PINK YONDER August 18, 2011 By Chey Nickerson
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
On August 18th, up to 25 riders, horses and a wagon will arrive in Longview for the evening. This event will see lots of fun for everyone and it's all in support of cancer. The monies raised will all remain in Alberta and we encourage everyone to get out and involved in some way during the event. A BBQ will be held at the rodeo grounds at 6pm with everyone welcome. A small fee will be requested which will also be donated to the ride. We hope to see challenges from businesses, as well as individuals as to who the pinkest can be and we'd like to see everyone out and taking part in this fun event. Check out the Longview rocks on the hill painted pink, the flower pots all boasting pink plants and I'm sure you'll see more than one or two pink outfits as well. PINK HAIR all over the Village on that day! A balloon launch is planned for after the supper, (balloon sales $2.50 each) again with the monies going to the cancer foundation. Please plan to come out and help us prove we may be small in numbers but we are HUGE in what's in our hearts. If you are interested in volunteering for any of the events during the time they are here please contact Michele Geistlinger or the office for more information.
MUSIC/ART is first on the list for the weekend of the 20th and 21st of August so watch for info on the Music and Arts festival happening in Centennial Park. Be sure to make your way over on the weekend and listen to the wonderful talent from our area as well as check out the artisans and vendors.
“Dotmocracy” was a huge success with votes from both adults and children on several pieces of equipment for the playground and the skate park. Keep watching the signs for meetings and PLEASE sign up to take part in the building of a playground, skate park and the Serenity / Memorial Garden on OCTOBER 15th, 2011.
The summer has flown by so fast with so many different things happening that we neglected to mention the Longview School Graduation. The Village of Longview's “Eagle Pride Award” is presented each year to a student demonstrating admirable qualities and character in both school and the Longview Community. This year's recipient of the award was Dawson Nelson and on behalf of the residents of Longview and the surrounding community we offer our congratulations.
Have a great week
Chey
On August 18th, up to 25 riders, horses and a wagon will arrive in Longview for the evening. This event will see lots of fun for everyone and it's all in support of cancer. The monies raised will all remain in Alberta and we encourage everyone to get out and involved in some way during the event. A BBQ will be held at the rodeo grounds at 6pm with everyone welcome. A small fee will be requested which will also be donated to the ride. We hope to see challenges from businesses, as well as individuals as to who the pinkest can be and we'd like to see everyone out and taking part in this fun event. Check out the Longview rocks on the hill painted pink, the flower pots all boasting pink plants and I'm sure you'll see more than one or two pink outfits as well. PINK HAIR all over the Village on that day! A balloon launch is planned for after the supper, (balloon sales $2.50 each) again with the monies going to the cancer foundation. Please plan to come out and help us prove we may be small in numbers but we are HUGE in what's in our hearts. If you are interested in volunteering for any of the events during the time they are here please contact Michele Geistlinger or the office for more information.
MUSIC/ART is first on the list for the weekend of the 20th and 21st of August so watch for info on the Music and Arts festival happening in Centennial Park. Be sure to make your way over on the weekend and listen to the wonderful talent from our area as well as check out the artisans and vendors.
“Dotmocracy” was a huge success with votes from both adults and children on several pieces of equipment for the playground and the skate park. Keep watching the signs for meetings and PLEASE sign up to take part in the building of a playground, skate park and the Serenity / Memorial Garden on OCTOBER 15th, 2011.
The summer has flown by so fast with so many different things happening that we neglected to mention the Longview School Graduation. The Village of Longview's “Eagle Pride Award” is presented each year to a student demonstrating admirable qualities and character in both school and the Longview Community. This year's recipient of the award was Dawson Nelson and on behalf of the residents of Longview and the surrounding community we offer our congratulations.
Have a great week
Chey
What's With All the PINK?
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
More than 75 riders make their annual trek across Alberta by horse and wagon, crossing 23 towns and 345 miles in 22 days, raising money for the Alberta Cancer Foundation in support of breast cancer research. On Saturday, August 13th, the riders were in the saddle in the Crowsnest Pass and starting their pink trail through the mountains. They will end at Fultonvale Arena, east of Sherwood Park on September 3rd.
Many of the riders have a personal cancer story to tell. Hedi Klassen, from Ardrossan, for instance has ridden in Wild Pink Yonder for the last two years to support cancer research since a number of family members have faced the disease. A few months after last year's ride, she heard the words, “You have cancer.”
Klassen received her last radiation treatment on June 29th and has spent the last few weeks preparing her mare, Lady Bey Ember for the three-week trek. Three weeks later, she was told she was cancer-free.
“I will be riding with a different viewpoint this year,” says Klassen. “How lucky we are in Alberta to have the support and amazing medical facilities that we do. During my daily trips to the Cross Cancer Institute, I met so many who traveled from out of their home province to find the treatment they needed.
“Trail boss” Jane Hurl was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2006 and started Wild Pink Yonder with her son, Rusty, to make sure her future grandchildren do not have to live in fear of the disease. In 2009, Wild Pink Yonder raised $55,650 and in 2010, it raised $75,112. Jane's goal this year is to raise $100,000 for the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
Wild Pink Yonder challenges towns along the route to be the “pinkest little town” and raise more money (per capita) than the others.
Visit the website: www.wildpinkyonder.com to track the route across the province or to donate.
More than 75 riders make their annual trek across Alberta by horse and wagon, crossing 23 towns and 345 miles in 22 days, raising money for the Alberta Cancer Foundation in support of breast cancer research. On Saturday, August 13th, the riders were in the saddle in the Crowsnest Pass and starting their pink trail through the mountains. They will end at Fultonvale Arena, east of Sherwood Park on September 3rd.
Many of the riders have a personal cancer story to tell. Hedi Klassen, from Ardrossan, for instance has ridden in Wild Pink Yonder for the last two years to support cancer research since a number of family members have faced the disease. A few months after last year's ride, she heard the words, “You have cancer.”
Klassen received her last radiation treatment on June 29th and has spent the last few weeks preparing her mare, Lady Bey Ember for the three-week trek. Three weeks later, she was told she was cancer-free.
“I will be riding with a different viewpoint this year,” says Klassen. “How lucky we are in Alberta to have the support and amazing medical facilities that we do. During my daily trips to the Cross Cancer Institute, I met so many who traveled from out of their home province to find the treatment they needed.
“Trail boss” Jane Hurl was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2006 and started Wild Pink Yonder with her son, Rusty, to make sure her future grandchildren do not have to live in fear of the disease. In 2009, Wild Pink Yonder raised $55,650 and in 2010, it raised $75,112. Jane's goal this year is to raise $100,000 for the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
Wild Pink Yonder challenges towns along the route to be the “pinkest little town” and raise more money (per capita) than the others.
Visit the website: www.wildpinkyonder.com to track the route across the province or to donate.
The Informant: The Profitable Home (part 2) by Todd Curran
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
Is your home a money pit? For most homeowners, home is where the equity is, along with property taxes, mortgage payments, maintenance and improvement costs, utility bills and other wallet whoppers. With all these operating costs, is your most substantial asset also your biggest millstone? Is there a way to actually make your home profitable?
Gadgets that can pay for themselves and even earn a return over time can also make a great deal of environmental sense. Battery chargers can trim the costs down really quick and “Smart” Power Strips retailing for around $40 will start paying for themselves in 60 days. By plugging your computer into the control outlet and all of your peripherals (monitor, printer, speakers, etc.) into the other outlets, turning on your computer will also power up the other devices and turning off your computer will turn the other devices off in kind. Even better, it actually functions as a switch, so when your main unit powers off, there is no phantom “standby” electricity being drawn to the other peripherals. Not only will you save money on the powered-down peripherals, but you'll save money from the lack of phantom charge.
Electricity Usage Monitors will pay for themselves in around three years by showing you how much electricity your powered-down electrical devices are still using. If you discover devices that are pulling a significant load, unplugging them or using an appropriate device to stop the drain will save you money over time.
For under $2 a piece, compact fluorescent light bulbs can save you up to $100 per year. The fact of the matter is that by merely replacing a regular bulb with a CFL, you'll save about a dollar per bulb every two months or so.
High efficiency shower heads retailing for under $20 save you money by reducing the amount of water that needs to flow through your hot water heater. An average household can save as much as 15,000 gallons of water per year by installing high-efficiency shower heads. Even better: that's 15,000 gallons of hot water that your heater doesn't have to heat, cutting down on your energy AND water costs.
A $40 programmable thermostat pays for itself in six months or less through precise temperature control and can be programmed to automatically lower your air conditioning and/or heat use while you're not home. Just program it and forget about it; it will automatically adjust things for you so that you aren't wasting electricity and money.
An $8,500 (including installation) residential windmill will take care of nearly all of your home electrical needs and pay for itself in eight years. It looks like a high-tech antenna, harnessing wind power to supply your juice. After 8 years, you're basically powering your house for free.
In a REALLY off-the-wall concept for money-making potential, participate in Adzookie's deal to pay you to turn your home into an urban or suburban billboard. All you have to do is be willing to let them come paint your home (excluding windows, shutters and roof) from top to bottom. When your contract is up (minimum of at least 3 months) they'll paint it back to your original colors and everyone walks away happy.
It's completely ridiculous, but that doesn't mean you can't use it to your advantage. If you didn't have to pay your monthly mortgage how much could you accomplish around the home? Could that chunk of change help fund your basement renovation? Could you landscape your yard the way you've always wanted or even afford to take a family vacation? Either way you're guaranteed to get a new paint job out of it when the deal is over and that in itself is a few thousand dollars that most of us would have to work hard to save up for! Check out:
www.adzookie.com/paintmyhouse.php for more details.
From solar energy devices to hosting classes in your home, there are dozens of methods to make your home profitable by making your home work for YOU, and trying a few could have you laughing all the way to the mortgage company!
Is your home a money pit? For most homeowners, home is where the equity is, along with property taxes, mortgage payments, maintenance and improvement costs, utility bills and other wallet whoppers. With all these operating costs, is your most substantial asset also your biggest millstone? Is there a way to actually make your home profitable?
Gadgets that can pay for themselves and even earn a return over time can also make a great deal of environmental sense. Battery chargers can trim the costs down really quick and “Smart” Power Strips retailing for around $40 will start paying for themselves in 60 days. By plugging your computer into the control outlet and all of your peripherals (monitor, printer, speakers, etc.) into the other outlets, turning on your computer will also power up the other devices and turning off your computer will turn the other devices off in kind. Even better, it actually functions as a switch, so when your main unit powers off, there is no phantom “standby” electricity being drawn to the other peripherals. Not only will you save money on the powered-down peripherals, but you'll save money from the lack of phantom charge.
Electricity Usage Monitors will pay for themselves in around three years by showing you how much electricity your powered-down electrical devices are still using. If you discover devices that are pulling a significant load, unplugging them or using an appropriate device to stop the drain will save you money over time.
For under $2 a piece, compact fluorescent light bulbs can save you up to $100 per year. The fact of the matter is that by merely replacing a regular bulb with a CFL, you'll save about a dollar per bulb every two months or so.
High efficiency shower heads retailing for under $20 save you money by reducing the amount of water that needs to flow through your hot water heater. An average household can save as much as 15,000 gallons of water per year by installing high-efficiency shower heads. Even better: that's 15,000 gallons of hot water that your heater doesn't have to heat, cutting down on your energy AND water costs.
A $40 programmable thermostat pays for itself in six months or less through precise temperature control and can be programmed to automatically lower your air conditioning and/or heat use while you're not home. Just program it and forget about it; it will automatically adjust things for you so that you aren't wasting electricity and money.
An $8,500 (including installation) residential windmill will take care of nearly all of your home electrical needs and pay for itself in eight years. It looks like a high-tech antenna, harnessing wind power to supply your juice. After 8 years, you're basically powering your house for free.
In a REALLY off-the-wall concept for money-making potential, participate in Adzookie's deal to pay you to turn your home into an urban or suburban billboard. All you have to do is be willing to let them come paint your home (excluding windows, shutters and roof) from top to bottom. When your contract is up (minimum of at least 3 months) they'll paint it back to your original colors and everyone walks away happy.
It's completely ridiculous, but that doesn't mean you can't use it to your advantage. If you didn't have to pay your monthly mortgage how much could you accomplish around the home? Could that chunk of change help fund your basement renovation? Could you landscape your yard the way you've always wanted or even afford to take a family vacation? Either way you're guaranteed to get a new paint job out of it when the deal is over and that in itself is a few thousand dollars that most of us would have to work hard to save up for! Check out:
www.adzookie.com/paintmyhouse.php for more details.
From solar energy devices to hosting classes in your home, there are dozens of methods to make your home profitable by making your home work for YOU, and trying a few could have you laughing all the way to the mortgage company!
Word History
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
Q: Why are people in the public eye said to be 'in the limelight’
A: Invented in 1825, limelight was used in lighthouses and theatres by
burning a cylinder of lime which produced a brilliant light. In the theatre, a performer 'in the limelight' was the centre of attention.
Q: Why is someone who is feeling great 'on cloud nine'?
A: Types of clouds are numbered according to the altitudes they attain,
with nine being the highest cloud. If someone is said to be on cloud nine, that person is floating well above worldly cares.
Now you know....
Q: Why are people in the public eye said to be 'in the limelight’
A: Invented in 1825, limelight was used in lighthouses and theatres by
burning a cylinder of lime which produced a brilliant light. In the theatre, a performer 'in the limelight' was the centre of attention.
Q: Why is someone who is feeling great 'on cloud nine'?
A: Types of clouds are numbered according to the altitudes they attain,
with nine being the highest cloud. If someone is said to be on cloud nine, that person is floating well above worldly cares.
Now you know....
Thoughts of Support
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
On August 5th a terrible accident occurred on Highway 22 south near Chain Lakes involving Dave and JoAnn Gilbert of Okotoks (owners of Sobey's) and their two children. Dave was not admitted to hospital and the children have since been released from the Alberta Children's Hospital. The current condition of JoAnn is that of a private nature and as such the owners and staff of the Gateway Gazette would simply like to let the entire Gilbert family know that our thoughts and prayers are with them all.
In keeping with the philosophy of the Gateway Gazette and out of respect for the privacy of the Gilbert family, we will not be reporting any details or updates but we do wish to acknowledge the heartfelt support that this community has offered the Gilbert family.
STARS air ambulance was once again called to the scene of this accident and we feel it is important to recall one of our stories that appeared in our last issue. 'Reaching For the STARS' introduced Beverley Michalezki as the STARS Calendar Campaign representative in this area. If you have missed Beverley please call her at 403-933-4838.
On August 5th a terrible accident occurred on Highway 22 south near Chain Lakes involving Dave and JoAnn Gilbert of Okotoks (owners of Sobey's) and their two children. Dave was not admitted to hospital and the children have since been released from the Alberta Children's Hospital. The current condition of JoAnn is that of a private nature and as such the owners and staff of the Gateway Gazette would simply like to let the entire Gilbert family know that our thoughts and prayers are with them all.
In keeping with the philosophy of the Gateway Gazette and out of respect for the privacy of the Gilbert family, we will not be reporting any details or updates but we do wish to acknowledge the heartfelt support that this community has offered the Gilbert family.
STARS air ambulance was once again called to the scene of this accident and we feel it is important to recall one of our stories that appeared in our last issue. 'Reaching For the STARS' introduced Beverley Michalezki as the STARS Calendar Campaign representative in this area. If you have missed Beverley please call her at 403-933-4838.
TED MORTON UNVEILS ROBERT BATEMAN CONSERVATION LICENSE PLATE PROPOSAL
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
Ted Morton, candidate for leadership of Alberta's PC Party, unveiled a new conservation license plate proposal to supporters and members of the media this morning at the Bow Habitat Station. The plate is a collaboration with internationally renowned wildlife artist Robert Bateman.
The design was unveiled with Calgary-Lougheed MLA Dave Rodney and a video address from Bateman. Proceeds from sales of the vanity plate will go in part to Bateman's Get to Know program for children, as well as an Albertan conservation group of the plate holder's choice.
"We decided that the big horn sheep would be the best subject for the plate because it's a big powerful animal and it gives me the opportunity to show the great mountain landscape of the rockies of Alberta," explained Bateman in the video address.
The plate also features Alberta's provincial motto, Strong and Free. "The license plate program is not only a beautiful way to advertise and promote our province but it will provide additional funds for educating young Albertans on our natural inheritance," said Morton.
To see the video and learn more about Robert Bateman’s Get to Know program go to:
www.tedmorton.ca/conservation-license-plate.html
Ted Morton, candidate for leadership of Alberta's PC Party, unveiled a new conservation license plate proposal to supporters and members of the media this morning at the Bow Habitat Station. The plate is a collaboration with internationally renowned wildlife artist Robert Bateman.
The design was unveiled with Calgary-Lougheed MLA Dave Rodney and a video address from Bateman. Proceeds from sales of the vanity plate will go in part to Bateman's Get to Know program for children, as well as an Albertan conservation group of the plate holder's choice.
"We decided that the big horn sheep would be the best subject for the plate because it's a big powerful animal and it gives me the opportunity to show the great mountain landscape of the rockies of Alberta," explained Bateman in the video address.
The plate also features Alberta's provincial motto, Strong and Free. "The license plate program is not only a beautiful way to advertise and promote our province but it will provide additional funds for educating young Albertans on our natural inheritance," said Morton.
To see the video and learn more about Robert Bateman’s Get to Know program go to:
www.tedmorton.ca/conservation-license-plate.html
August at Sheep River Library
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
Sheep River Library is experiencing one of its busiest summers on record. SPLASH, the summer reading program hosted by the library, has seen about 20 participants a day over the summer months. Teen Zine and the Teen Summer Reading experience which was organized by Marigold, has had many kids participating in order to win the prizes automatically given to participants who finish two of the five levels. (Kids, there is still time to get in on these great prizes! Pick up a brochure at the library or at Boys and Girls Club). The first two weeks of August saw the library filled daily from 8am until 5pm with over thirty members of the Boys and Girls Club who took advantage of the new board games, computer activities, crafts, reading books and watching movies between swimming classes and free time in the pool. A great partnership experience that worked very well!
Membership in the library is well over 1,800, the largest number ever recorded. The kindergarten sponsorship program initiated by Mark at AG Foods has played a huge role in the increase in family memberships. A number of people visiting the library book sale during Turner Valley days took advantage of the opportunity to tour the facility and take out a membership. Family membership is only $20 per year. An unofficial target of new manager Jan Burney is to reach 2,000 by the New Year!
Unfortunately, the beautiful high beamed ceiling in the library, while spectacular to look at, is the source of concern for staff and patrons. Any noise echoes! And since the goal is that the library is a fun place to be and activities and discussion are encouraged, solutions to the noise level are being investigated. The first noise source to be addressed is the use of computers and computer games. From now on, the sound on the computers must be muted at all times. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own headphones or headphones can be purchased at the front desk for $2.00.
Thank you to patrons who have stepped up to take out magazine subscriptions for the library. Several titles that were close to expiry were saved. Check out the recognition signs in the magazine section to see those who have joined the list of magazine donors. In jeopardy are a few more magazines whose time is running out in September or October – Country Living, Consumer Report, Canadian House and Homes and Birds in Bloom to name a few. Check with the front desk to see other titles coming up for renewal. Magazine subscriptions in addition to those on the shelves are always welcome.
Registration for fall courses commenced during the Art in the Park celebrations on Saturday, August 13th. Brochures outlining all the adult classes are available in the library or on line at www.sheepriverlibrary.ca. Don't miss out on some of the fabulous lifelong learning experiences scheduled for this fall at Sheep River Library. Learn a new language through Mango! Check out Career Development courses put on by McBride Career Group. Personal Development courses include sessions on mortgages, buying your first home, telling your story and mastering final stages of life. Yoga for Beginners is new under the General Interest section as well as sessions on how to Make a Fall Wreath, how to begin exploring your family history in Genealogy 101, how to help your group or club put on a special event or festival and how to discover what's up in the night sky by utilizing the Starblast Astronomical Telescope which is coming to our library soon. Four travel talks have been scheduled along with two Wilderness/Wildlife sessions. Pick up a brochure soon. Registration has already started!
Casino Volunteers needed! The Friends of the Sheep River Library have been slated to manage a casino on February 14th and 15th, 2012. Forty volunteers are needed to cover the day and evening shifts for the two days. This will be a major fund raiser for the library and upcoming costs during 2012. If you can help, please call Holly at 403-933-5890. Lots of help is needed, so please volunteer for one of these days.
Sheep River Library is experiencing one of its busiest summers on record. SPLASH, the summer reading program hosted by the library, has seen about 20 participants a day over the summer months. Teen Zine and the Teen Summer Reading experience which was organized by Marigold, has had many kids participating in order to win the prizes automatically given to participants who finish two of the five levels. (Kids, there is still time to get in on these great prizes! Pick up a brochure at the library or at Boys and Girls Club). The first two weeks of August saw the library filled daily from 8am until 5pm with over thirty members of the Boys and Girls Club who took advantage of the new board games, computer activities, crafts, reading books and watching movies between swimming classes and free time in the pool. A great partnership experience that worked very well!
Membership in the library is well over 1,800, the largest number ever recorded. The kindergarten sponsorship program initiated by Mark at AG Foods has played a huge role in the increase in family memberships. A number of people visiting the library book sale during Turner Valley days took advantage of the opportunity to tour the facility and take out a membership. Family membership is only $20 per year. An unofficial target of new manager Jan Burney is to reach 2,000 by the New Year!
Unfortunately, the beautiful high beamed ceiling in the library, while spectacular to look at, is the source of concern for staff and patrons. Any noise echoes! And since the goal is that the library is a fun place to be and activities and discussion are encouraged, solutions to the noise level are being investigated. The first noise source to be addressed is the use of computers and computer games. From now on, the sound on the computers must be muted at all times. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own headphones or headphones can be purchased at the front desk for $2.00.
Thank you to patrons who have stepped up to take out magazine subscriptions for the library. Several titles that were close to expiry were saved. Check out the recognition signs in the magazine section to see those who have joined the list of magazine donors. In jeopardy are a few more magazines whose time is running out in September or October – Country Living, Consumer Report, Canadian House and Homes and Birds in Bloom to name a few. Check with the front desk to see other titles coming up for renewal. Magazine subscriptions in addition to those on the shelves are always welcome.
Registration for fall courses commenced during the Art in the Park celebrations on Saturday, August 13th. Brochures outlining all the adult classes are available in the library or on line at www.sheepriverlibrary.ca. Don't miss out on some of the fabulous lifelong learning experiences scheduled for this fall at Sheep River Library. Learn a new language through Mango! Check out Career Development courses put on by McBride Career Group. Personal Development courses include sessions on mortgages, buying your first home, telling your story and mastering final stages of life. Yoga for Beginners is new under the General Interest section as well as sessions on how to Make a Fall Wreath, how to begin exploring your family history in Genealogy 101, how to help your group or club put on a special event or festival and how to discover what's up in the night sky by utilizing the Starblast Astronomical Telescope which is coming to our library soon. Four travel talks have been scheduled along with two Wilderness/Wildlife sessions. Pick up a brochure soon. Registration has already started!
Casino Volunteers needed! The Friends of the Sheep River Library have been slated to manage a casino on February 14th and 15th, 2012. Forty volunteers are needed to cover the day and evening shifts for the two days. This will be a major fund raiser for the library and upcoming costs during 2012. If you can help, please call Holly at 403-933-5890. Lots of help is needed, so please volunteer for one of these days.
Millarville Racing & Agricultural Society: THE 104TH ANNUAL PRIDDIS & MILLARVILLE FAIR
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
The 104th Annual Priddis & Millarville Fair, happening Saturday, August 20th and fully integrated with the famous Millarville Farmers' Market, is one of the last, great Agricultural Fairs in Canada.
The day is a great one for children in particular, with Kid's World and its craft corner, jumping tent, races and other entertainments, a Petting Zoo, the return of the friendly, gigantic grey Percherons from the Bar-U Ranch and a team of horses named Nelly and Shelley making ice cream (yes, you read that right) and all manner of ducks, roosters, chickens, kids roping, children's pet shows, a messy pie-eating contest, dressed-up horse competition, hayrides, a parade . . . . and the list goes on.
An Acreage Equipment Show (new this year), Automobile Show N' Shine, live auctions and of course the original reason for the Fair itself in 1907, the more than 4,000 entered competition exhibits of produce, grains, grasses, livestock, baking, sewing, artwork, creative writing, photography and many other categories to gaze upon.
The Fair will also be a waypoint for Wild Pink Yonder's epic, 22 day horseback trail ride from southern to northern Alberta, with an overnight stopover and then an "On Track To Beat Breast Cancer" awareness/fundraising walk on the Millarville Racetrack on Fair day. It will be your chance to show your support with pink scarves, shirts, hats and special bracelets and make the Fair the pinkest in Canada.
New to the Fair this year will be a hilarious Working Farm Truck Competition where the local farmers and ranchers will be able to bring their most serviceable but ingeniously duct-taped, baler-wired, binder-twined, older but functional farm vehicles in for a little competition with a surprise celebrity judge. Each contestant will start with 200 points with deductions starting for the newest, shiniest and cleanest of vehicles but points gained for demonstrated survivability, jumper cables on the seat, quarts of oil rolling around on the passenger floor, an old hound dog in the back . . . . .
Adding to the fun of the Fair is the Reggie The Rooster Raffle where the winning ticket has a choice of one (1) of Reggie, our eight-foot tall, 400 lb Rooster, or a 1978 Chevy 3/4 ton farm truck that still runs on five year old gas left in the tank after it was abandoned in a field or, finally, having MRAS make a $2,500 donation to Wild Pink Yonder to benefit Breast Cancer Research.
Tickets are $5 with 2000 being printed. Reggie The Rooster Raffle tickets can be bought at the Millarville Farmers Market on Saturdays or the MRAS office on weekdays. Draw will be held on Fair Day.
Reggie could also use some help from kids and adults alike in the "Reggie's Long Journey Home Contest." You can enter an essay and art contest and fill in the blanks with your imagination as to where he's been in the time between the first Fair in 1907 and the present day. Details are on our "Contests & Fun" page at www.millarvilleracetrack.com Just click on the Rooster!!!
The Fair enjoyed a record year in 2010 with more than 7,000 in attendance and over 4,000 bench entries.
The Millarville Racing & Agricultural Society, with origins older than the Province of Alberta, is a non-profit entity which sponsors the famous Millarville Farmers' Market, Alberta's oldest and second largest outdoor market with expanded hours of 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through to October 8, the Millarville Christmas Market, one of the largest crafts and artisan shows in Alberta and three major historic events, the just concluded 106th Annual Millarville Races on Canada Day, July 1, the 15th Annual Millarville Rodeo August 5-7 and the 104th Annual Priddis & Millarville Fair. The MRAS has more than 100,000 pass through its gates in any single year, with more than 300 members and over 500 volunteers providing thousands of hours of time in ensuring the community-focused facilities continue for future generations. For information about the MRAS and its facilities and programs, please contact MRAS President John Dakers at 403-931-3411 or go to www.millarvilleracetrack.com
The 104th Annual Priddis & Millarville Fair, happening Saturday, August 20th and fully integrated with the famous Millarville Farmers' Market, is one of the last, great Agricultural Fairs in Canada.
The day is a great one for children in particular, with Kid's World and its craft corner, jumping tent, races and other entertainments, a Petting Zoo, the return of the friendly, gigantic grey Percherons from the Bar-U Ranch and a team of horses named Nelly and Shelley making ice cream (yes, you read that right) and all manner of ducks, roosters, chickens, kids roping, children's pet shows, a messy pie-eating contest, dressed-up horse competition, hayrides, a parade . . . . and the list goes on.
An Acreage Equipment Show (new this year), Automobile Show N' Shine, live auctions and of course the original reason for the Fair itself in 1907, the more than 4,000 entered competition exhibits of produce, grains, grasses, livestock, baking, sewing, artwork, creative writing, photography and many other categories to gaze upon.
The Fair will also be a waypoint for Wild Pink Yonder's epic, 22 day horseback trail ride from southern to northern Alberta, with an overnight stopover and then an "On Track To Beat Breast Cancer" awareness/fundraising walk on the Millarville Racetrack on Fair day. It will be your chance to show your support with pink scarves, shirts, hats and special bracelets and make the Fair the pinkest in Canada.
New to the Fair this year will be a hilarious Working Farm Truck Competition where the local farmers and ranchers will be able to bring their most serviceable but ingeniously duct-taped, baler-wired, binder-twined, older but functional farm vehicles in for a little competition with a surprise celebrity judge. Each contestant will start with 200 points with deductions starting for the newest, shiniest and cleanest of vehicles but points gained for demonstrated survivability, jumper cables on the seat, quarts of oil rolling around on the passenger floor, an old hound dog in the back . . . . .
Adding to the fun of the Fair is the Reggie The Rooster Raffle where the winning ticket has a choice of one (1) of Reggie, our eight-foot tall, 400 lb Rooster, or a 1978 Chevy 3/4 ton farm truck that still runs on five year old gas left in the tank after it was abandoned in a field or, finally, having MRAS make a $2,500 donation to Wild Pink Yonder to benefit Breast Cancer Research.
Tickets are $5 with 2000 being printed. Reggie The Rooster Raffle tickets can be bought at the Millarville Farmers Market on Saturdays or the MRAS office on weekdays. Draw will be held on Fair Day.
Reggie could also use some help from kids and adults alike in the "Reggie's Long Journey Home Contest." You can enter an essay and art contest and fill in the blanks with your imagination as to where he's been in the time between the first Fair in 1907 and the present day. Details are on our "Contests & Fun" page at www.millarvilleracetrack.com Just click on the Rooster!!!
The Fair enjoyed a record year in 2010 with more than 7,000 in attendance and over 4,000 bench entries.
The Millarville Racing & Agricultural Society, with origins older than the Province of Alberta, is a non-profit entity which sponsors the famous Millarville Farmers' Market, Alberta's oldest and second largest outdoor market with expanded hours of 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through to October 8, the Millarville Christmas Market, one of the largest crafts and artisan shows in Alberta and three major historic events, the just concluded 106th Annual Millarville Races on Canada Day, July 1, the 15th Annual Millarville Rodeo August 5-7 and the 104th Annual Priddis & Millarville Fair. The MRAS has more than 100,000 pass through its gates in any single year, with more than 300 members and over 500 volunteers providing thousands of hours of time in ensuring the community-focused facilities continue for future generations. For information about the MRAS and its facilities and programs, please contact MRAS President John Dakers at 403-931-3411 or go to www.millarvilleracetrack.com
Thank you to all entrants! The winners are: Shaunene of Black Diamond and Monique of Blackie
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
For those who may be curious, the answers to the questions for the contest are as follows:
In which year was the Gateway Gazette established? 2004
Does the Gateway Gazette like to receive submissions about local events & news? YES!
What does the Gateway Gazette print: GOOD NEWS
What is the Gifts and Gripes column in the Gateway Gazette? LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (although we like Monique’s answer of “praises & anger management”!)
What does the Gateway Gazette include: ALL OF THE ABOVE (Puzzles, Horoscopes, Events Calendar)
Is the Gateway Gazette a free newspaper? YES
What is the difference between "Cube" and "Dice", in relation to food prep? Cube is 1/2 to 1 inch cubes; Dice is 1/8 to 1/4 cubes.
How do you tell when a pancake is ready to flip? When the bubbles appear on the surface.
What is a frittata? Italian Omelette
For those who may be curious, the answers to the questions for the contest are as follows:
In which year was the Gateway Gazette established? 2004
Does the Gateway Gazette like to receive submissions about local events & news? YES!
What does the Gateway Gazette print: GOOD NEWS
What is the Gifts and Gripes column in the Gateway Gazette? LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (although we like Monique’s answer of “praises & anger management”!)
What does the Gateway Gazette include: ALL OF THE ABOVE (Puzzles, Horoscopes, Events Calendar)
Is the Gateway Gazette a free newspaper? YES
What is the difference between "Cube" and "Dice", in relation to food prep? Cube is 1/2 to 1 inch cubes; Dice is 1/8 to 1/4 cubes.
How do you tell when a pancake is ready to flip? When the bubbles appear on the surface.
What is a frittata? Italian Omelette
5 Ways To Squash Stress
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
Just about everyone at some point in time has experienced stress. Some suffer from stress powerful enough to have profound effects on daily life and personal health. A variety of strategies, from medication to meditation, can be effective at relieving stress.
Stress is not something easily defined. That's because what is stressful to one person may roll off of another's back. Various situations can trigger emotional responses in people. Very often these responses can escalate into stress that affects blood pressure, anxiety levels, mood, sleep patterns and eating habits.
There are over 50 signs of stress; a few of those symptoms include:
* frequent headaches; * grinding teeth; * neck ache; * back pain; * heartburn; * obsessive behavior; * overreaction to small annoyances; * increased anger or frustration; * rapid or mumbled speech; * social withdrawal; * excessive gambling or impulse buying; * chest pain and palpitations; * excessive anxiety or worry.
Stress can have distinct effects on health. There are a number of physical disorders and emotional effects that have been linked to stress. Heart attacks, hypertension, immune system disorders, anxiety and depression have all been linked to excessive stress.
Reducing stress has become a priority for many people looking to avoid health problems. There are many strategies people can take. Here's a look at five of them.
1. Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR): A person starts from the face and works down the body by tensing all of the muscles in specific areas while inhaling and holding breath. Then he or she relaxes the muscles while exhaling.
2. Guided imagery: With the help of a recording or one's own imagination, a person pictures a relaxing scene with a possible guide answering profound questions.
3. Laughter: Laughing reduces the level of stress hormones, like epinephrine, dopamine, cortisol and others. It also increases en-dorphins. Laughter is a good distraction and also a mild workout. It contracts the ab muscles and works out the shoulders.
4. Music: Music can be used in many ways to reduce stress. Soft, peaceful music may help induce meditation and imagery. Upbeat music can get a person dancing, where the physical activity loosens muscles and relieves stress.
5. Sex: Sex can boost mood, reduce blood pressure, promote relaxation through touch and provide a physical workout. All of these factors are good for reducing stress.
Just about everyone at some point in time has experienced stress. Some suffer from stress powerful enough to have profound effects on daily life and personal health. A variety of strategies, from medication to meditation, can be effective at relieving stress.
Stress is not something easily defined. That's because what is stressful to one person may roll off of another's back. Various situations can trigger emotional responses in people. Very often these responses can escalate into stress that affects blood pressure, anxiety levels, mood, sleep patterns and eating habits.
There are over 50 signs of stress; a few of those symptoms include:
* frequent headaches; * grinding teeth; * neck ache; * back pain; * heartburn; * obsessive behavior; * overreaction to small annoyances; * increased anger or frustration; * rapid or mumbled speech; * social withdrawal; * excessive gambling or impulse buying; * chest pain and palpitations; * excessive anxiety or worry.
Stress can have distinct effects on health. There are a number of physical disorders and emotional effects that have been linked to stress. Heart attacks, hypertension, immune system disorders, anxiety and depression have all been linked to excessive stress.
Reducing stress has become a priority for many people looking to avoid health problems. There are many strategies people can take. Here's a look at five of them.
1. Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR): A person starts from the face and works down the body by tensing all of the muscles in specific areas while inhaling and holding breath. Then he or she relaxes the muscles while exhaling.
2. Guided imagery: With the help of a recording or one's own imagination, a person pictures a relaxing scene with a possible guide answering profound questions.
3. Laughter: Laughing reduces the level of stress hormones, like epinephrine, dopamine, cortisol and others. It also increases en-dorphins. Laughter is a good distraction and also a mild workout. It contracts the ab muscles and works out the shoulders.
4. Music: Music can be used in many ways to reduce stress. Soft, peaceful music may help induce meditation and imagery. Upbeat music can get a person dancing, where the physical activity loosens muscles and relieves stress.
5. Sex: Sex can boost mood, reduce blood pressure, promote relaxation through touch and provide a physical workout. All of these factors are good for reducing stress.
The Life of An Artist in theSummer Sun
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
Good day fellow readers! My summertime lifestyle has been completely crazy. I had hoped to have time to write my articles, as they are like a release for me and my very busy mind!!! Alas, my '7 hour-long, 5 days straight of pure art fun'… turned out to be '3 weeks of 24/7 straight work hours' Killer man. I am most certainly grateful for all of my full time assistants: Stephanie Anderson & Merrilie Pederson. My artistic volunteer and guest artist respectively: Katie Poole & Janifer Calvez! And my long-distance guest artist: Dee Poisson of Didsbury.
My Fine Art Day Camps were in fact, superiorly awesome. All of the kids were energetic, inspired and creatively engaged with each and every project. There was never a dull moment. Our weekly art shows for each age group were spectacular and their families were similarly 'blown away' with the amount of projects and the quality of work their young artists were capable of. So, I basked in that glory. (Tee hee!) By the end of the second week's Art Show, I was very nearly at full exhaustion and Janifer took a picture of me. My hairstyle is not top-notch, I'm a little over-shiny and my eyelids are very heavy. But I'm smiling nonetheless. I had fun regardless of the lack of sleep and excessive amounts of double lattes from Blue Rock Coffee each day! I credit my stamina to my daily meditation and yoga at 6am & midnight. I credit my endurance to my passion for The Fine Arts' ever-inspiring avenues and disciplines.
I learned a valuable lesson from this year's experience: One should never take on 300 hours of actual work-time without a full-time equally dedicated partner. After the last day of the last week of classes, I felt like I had been actually living in “The Matrix” and it wasn't until the following Monday that I finally allowed myself to take “Orpheus's (proverbial) blue pill“ in order to re-enter “the real world”. Although, I'm not so sure I could choose which one is more fun ;)
~Love and light from The Real RobiN Thibodeau
allseasonchick@gmail.com
Good day fellow readers! My summertime lifestyle has been completely crazy. I had hoped to have time to write my articles, as they are like a release for me and my very busy mind!!! Alas, my '7 hour-long, 5 days straight of pure art fun'… turned out to be '3 weeks of 24/7 straight work hours' Killer man. I am most certainly grateful for all of my full time assistants: Stephanie Anderson & Merrilie Pederson. My artistic volunteer and guest artist respectively: Katie Poole & Janifer Calvez! And my long-distance guest artist: Dee Poisson of Didsbury.
My Fine Art Day Camps were in fact, superiorly awesome. All of the kids were energetic, inspired and creatively engaged with each and every project. There was never a dull moment. Our weekly art shows for each age group were spectacular and their families were similarly 'blown away' with the amount of projects and the quality of work their young artists were capable of. So, I basked in that glory. (Tee hee!) By the end of the second week's Art Show, I was very nearly at full exhaustion and Janifer took a picture of me. My hairstyle is not top-notch, I'm a little over-shiny and my eyelids are very heavy. But I'm smiling nonetheless. I had fun regardless of the lack of sleep and excessive amounts of double lattes from Blue Rock Coffee each day! I credit my stamina to my daily meditation and yoga at 6am & midnight. I credit my endurance to my passion for The Fine Arts' ever-inspiring avenues and disciplines.
I learned a valuable lesson from this year's experience: One should never take on 300 hours of actual work-time without a full-time equally dedicated partner. After the last day of the last week of classes, I felt like I had been actually living in “The Matrix” and it wasn't until the following Monday that I finally allowed myself to take “Orpheus's (proverbial) blue pill“ in order to re-enter “the real world”. Although, I'm not so sure I could choose which one is more fun ;)
~Love and light from The Real RobiN Thibodeau
allseasonchick@gmail.com
From My Bookshelf....by Lynn Willoughby
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
The Thirteenth Tale - Diane Setterfield
This book was a recommendation and thank you for that.
Margaret Lea is hired by the enigmatic writer Vida Winter, to write her biography. As Vida disinters the life she meant to bury for good, we are mesmerized by the gothic strangeness of the Angelfield family.
Readers, biographers, reporters have all been after Winter for the conclusion - the thirteenth tale, of her famous mysteries. These were outlandish life histories of herself - all of them inventions, that have brought her fame and fortune. However, there is a tragic secret lurking in her past - the basis of this novel.
The chapters switch between the past and present of the two main characters. Vida Winter's history is written at first in the third person past tense, but when Winter suddenly uses "I" we begin to understand her secrets. Death is a common theme, as are depression, identity, loss, isolation and the mythologies of many cultures regarding twins.
There are comedic moments - "he could not find it in himself to confide the household's difficulty to a member of a profession (lawyers) that made its living from having its nose in other people's private affairs."
This is a good read, an "enchanting Gothic for the 21st century" - Library Journal
Mr Shakespeare's Bastard - Richard B. Wright
Aerlene has known about her father all her life, is obsessed with reading his plays and would dearly love to visit a playhouse and see one performed. But as she and her mother are dependent upon her Puritan uncle and aunt, seeing a play seems highly unlikely.
Shakespeare's life is poorly documented in history, yet evidence suggests a shotgun wedding at a young age, family tragedy, years of early penury and whispers that he sired at least one illegitimate child. This makes Wright's book very readable.
Aside from the Bard himself, I really liked the scenes describing old London in the late 1500s. I suspect these facts and scenarios are very real - including the smells, the public drunkenness and debauchery, the thievery, the lives of those who were apprenticed. Shakespeare himself muses about what life would be like in Bedlam hospital while listening to the moans, screams and those baying at the moon.
Matched with this are the descriptions of the wealthy on their way to a play or concert, which seemed to go on at all hours of the day and night. Navigating the streets themselves with names like Cheapside, Threadneedle, Silver Street and dodging beggars and pickpockets at the same time was very entertaining.
Like 'Clara Callan' this novel moves along at a smart pace and as an incidental benefit, we get to see how Shakespeare's work was viewed during his life. The overall theme is "family" and it is always amazing to me that a male writer can craft such believable female characters as Aerlene and her mother.
Who Knew?
The gathering of samphire is mentioned in this novel and I was completely unfamiliar with it, I found that it is a succulent wild green plant that grow on the cliffs in Great Britain. To collect it from these cliffs is extremely dangerous. "Half way down, Hangs one that gathers samphire; dreadful trade!" - William Shakespeare.
The Thirteenth Tale - Diane Setterfield
This book was a recommendation and thank you for that.
Margaret Lea is hired by the enigmatic writer Vida Winter, to write her biography. As Vida disinters the life she meant to bury for good, we are mesmerized by the gothic strangeness of the Angelfield family.
Readers, biographers, reporters have all been after Winter for the conclusion - the thirteenth tale, of her famous mysteries. These were outlandish life histories of herself - all of them inventions, that have brought her fame and fortune. However, there is a tragic secret lurking in her past - the basis of this novel.
The chapters switch between the past and present of the two main characters. Vida Winter's history is written at first in the third person past tense, but when Winter suddenly uses "I" we begin to understand her secrets. Death is a common theme, as are depression, identity, loss, isolation and the mythologies of many cultures regarding twins.
There are comedic moments - "he could not find it in himself to confide the household's difficulty to a member of a profession (lawyers) that made its living from having its nose in other people's private affairs."
This is a good read, an "enchanting Gothic for the 21st century" - Library Journal
Mr Shakespeare's Bastard - Richard B. Wright
Aerlene has known about her father all her life, is obsessed with reading his plays and would dearly love to visit a playhouse and see one performed. But as she and her mother are dependent upon her Puritan uncle and aunt, seeing a play seems highly unlikely.
Shakespeare's life is poorly documented in history, yet evidence suggests a shotgun wedding at a young age, family tragedy, years of early penury and whispers that he sired at least one illegitimate child. This makes Wright's book very readable.
Aside from the Bard himself, I really liked the scenes describing old London in the late 1500s. I suspect these facts and scenarios are very real - including the smells, the public drunkenness and debauchery, the thievery, the lives of those who were apprenticed. Shakespeare himself muses about what life would be like in Bedlam hospital while listening to the moans, screams and those baying at the moon.
Matched with this are the descriptions of the wealthy on their way to a play or concert, which seemed to go on at all hours of the day and night. Navigating the streets themselves with names like Cheapside, Threadneedle, Silver Street and dodging beggars and pickpockets at the same time was very entertaining.
Like 'Clara Callan' this novel moves along at a smart pace and as an incidental benefit, we get to see how Shakespeare's work was viewed during his life. The overall theme is "family" and it is always amazing to me that a male writer can craft such believable female characters as Aerlene and her mother.
- Clara Callan
- October
- Adultery
Who Knew?
The gathering of samphire is mentioned in this novel and I was completely unfamiliar with it, I found that it is a succulent wild green plant that grow on the cliffs in Great Britain. To collect it from these cliffs is extremely dangerous. "Half way down, Hangs one that gathers samphire; dreadful trade!" - William Shakespeare.
Local Couple Hosts Unique Dining Experience For A Worthy Cause
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Dinner in the Dark in Turner Valley
On Saturday, September 10th, 2011, join Evan Reichert and Kim Tuck Reichert at the Flare & Derrick Community Hall in Turner Valley, Alberta (131 Main Street NW), for “Dinner in the Dark” - a fundraising event that has guests dining in the dark to mimic being without sight for an evening. All funds raised support the Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB) and sight-saving research.
Last year, 28-year-old Evan Reichert was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic form of blindness. Evan works as a heavy-equipment operator, and losing his sight to this incurable disease may leave him without the means to support his young family. To better understand the impacts of this condition, Evan and his wife Kim are learning everything they can about retinitis pigmentosa to better adjust their lifestyle to the effects of Evan’s deteriorating sight.
Evan and Kim’s ophthalmologist referred them to the Foundation Fighting Blindness and the innovative research the Foundation funds to find the causes, treatments and cures for retinitis pigmentosa and related retinal eye diseases. Ground-breaking research currently taking place gives hope for cures within Evan’s lifetime.
Dinner in the Dark will feature a silent auction and a delicious dinner in the company of family and friends living in Turner Valley and the surrounding communities. Many of the food items have been donated by local businesses. The silent auction will include such prizes as the Hit-man package, a $500 tattoo gift certificate and a leather jacket.
Tickets for Dinner in the Dark are $20 per person. To purchase tickets and for more information please visit the Dinner in the Dark website: www.wix.com/cuncannr/dinnerinthedark. For more information about the Foundation Fighting Blindness and vision research, please visit: www.ffb.ca.
About the Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB)
The Foundation Fighting Blindness, Canada’s largest registered charity for sight-saving research, has contributed over $19 million to cutting-edge study of the causes, treatments and cures for retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration and related retinal eye diseases. “A Cure is in Sight” thanks to Foundation-funded discoveries. The Foundation is also known by its signature events: Comic Vision, Cycle for Sight, Ride for Sight and Vision Quest. Visit www.ffb.ca or call 1.800.461.3331 for the latest news in vision research.
Dinner in the Dark in Turner Valley
On Saturday, September 10th, 2011, join Evan Reichert and Kim Tuck Reichert at the Flare & Derrick Community Hall in Turner Valley, Alberta (131 Main Street NW), for “Dinner in the Dark” - a fundraising event that has guests dining in the dark to mimic being without sight for an evening. All funds raised support the Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB) and sight-saving research.
Last year, 28-year-old Evan Reichert was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic form of blindness. Evan works as a heavy-equipment operator, and losing his sight to this incurable disease may leave him without the means to support his young family. To better understand the impacts of this condition, Evan and his wife Kim are learning everything they can about retinitis pigmentosa to better adjust their lifestyle to the effects of Evan’s deteriorating sight.
Evan and Kim’s ophthalmologist referred them to the Foundation Fighting Blindness and the innovative research the Foundation funds to find the causes, treatments and cures for retinitis pigmentosa and related retinal eye diseases. Ground-breaking research currently taking place gives hope for cures within Evan’s lifetime.
Dinner in the Dark will feature a silent auction and a delicious dinner in the company of family and friends living in Turner Valley and the surrounding communities. Many of the food items have been donated by local businesses. The silent auction will include such prizes as the Hit-man package, a $500 tattoo gift certificate and a leather jacket.
Tickets for Dinner in the Dark are $20 per person. To purchase tickets and for more information please visit the Dinner in the Dark website: www.wix.com/cuncannr/dinnerinthedark. For more information about the Foundation Fighting Blindness and vision research, please visit: www.ffb.ca.
About the Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB)
The Foundation Fighting Blindness, Canada’s largest registered charity for sight-saving research, has contributed over $19 million to cutting-edge study of the causes, treatments and cures for retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration and related retinal eye diseases. “A Cure is in Sight” thanks to Foundation-funded discoveries. The Foundation is also known by its signature events: Comic Vision, Cycle for Sight, Ride for Sight and Vision Quest. Visit www.ffb.ca or call 1.800.461.3331 for the latest news in vision research.
ANN & SANDY CROSS CONSERVATION AREA ~ REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS: GRAZING PROGRAM
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
The Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area is seeking proposals from persons interested in conducting an exclusive winter/spring grazing program on lands managed by the Conservation Area.
The Conservation Area's Board of Directors (the "Cross Board") supervises the management of 4,800 acres of rolling foothills land donated by Ann and Sandy Cross. In addition to its mandate of protecting natural habitat for native species, the area offers conservation education programs that foster awareness, appreciation and action.
Recently, the Cross Board received a report on the physical development and stewardship of the lands comprising the Conservation Area. The Cross Board is currently seeking proposals from persons interested in conducting a grazing program on the Conservation Area. The grazing program will assist the Cross Board in managing weed control and reducing risk of wildfire, as well as facilitate the improved health of the grasslands.
The design of the program, including the area to be grazed, herd size, the portion of the year when grazing occurs, term, capital investment for building repair and fencing (both new and by way of repairs) should be in the proposal. A draft copy of the contract, which will be revised to reflect the terms and conditions in the awarded proposal, is available by contacting the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area and the final contract will include the terms and conditions contained in the Proposal submitted by the successful proponent.
Proposals will be evaluated and selected based upon the following criteria and weighting:
1.The Grazing Plan submitted..............25%
2.Experience of the Proponent.............25%
3.Proponent's knowledge of grazing management................25%
4.Compensation offered..............25%
Interested persons can receive additional information from and access to the applicable lands for review/inspection through Reg Rempel by contacting: 403-931-3111 or rrempel@crossconservation.org.
Interested persons must submit their proposal by September 15th, 2011. The Board of Directors of the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal and its evaluation and decision shall be final.
Please contact either Reg Rempel or e-mail info@crossconservation.org PRIOR to submitting a proposal to receive the full Request For Proposals with details on the items all proposals must address, including: area to be grazed, seasonality, term, grazing management, animal management, cattle feeding, hazardous materials, insurance and assignment.
Further information on the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area can be found at: www.crossconservation.org.
The Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area is seeking proposals from persons interested in conducting an exclusive winter/spring grazing program on lands managed by the Conservation Area.
The Conservation Area's Board of Directors (the "Cross Board") supervises the management of 4,800 acres of rolling foothills land donated by Ann and Sandy Cross. In addition to its mandate of protecting natural habitat for native species, the area offers conservation education programs that foster awareness, appreciation and action.
Recently, the Cross Board received a report on the physical development and stewardship of the lands comprising the Conservation Area. The Cross Board is currently seeking proposals from persons interested in conducting a grazing program on the Conservation Area. The grazing program will assist the Cross Board in managing weed control and reducing risk of wildfire, as well as facilitate the improved health of the grasslands.
The design of the program, including the area to be grazed, herd size, the portion of the year when grazing occurs, term, capital investment for building repair and fencing (both new and by way of repairs) should be in the proposal. A draft copy of the contract, which will be revised to reflect the terms and conditions in the awarded proposal, is available by contacting the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area and the final contract will include the terms and conditions contained in the Proposal submitted by the successful proponent.
Proposals will be evaluated and selected based upon the following criteria and weighting:
1.The Grazing Plan submitted..............25%
2.Experience of the Proponent.............25%
3.Proponent's knowledge of grazing management................25%
4.Compensation offered..............25%
Interested persons can receive additional information from and access to the applicable lands for review/inspection through Reg Rempel by contacting: 403-931-3111 or rrempel@crossconservation.org.
Interested persons must submit their proposal by September 15th, 2011. The Board of Directors of the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal and its evaluation and decision shall be final.
Please contact either Reg Rempel or e-mail info@crossconservation.org PRIOR to submitting a proposal to receive the full Request For Proposals with details on the items all proposals must address, including: area to be grazed, seasonality, term, grazing management, animal management, cattle feeding, hazardous materials, insurance and assignment.
Further information on the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area can be found at: www.crossconservation.org.
Only at Joey’s Only
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By Pam Jones
We all know that customer service is the most important aspect of a business relationship. Whether we are the customer or the provider, that 'extra mile' is what brings us all the most benefit.
Last Wednesday was my granddaughter, Solena's, tenth birthday and my husband invited her to join us at Joey's Only in High River, for supper. Tanya cautioned us that Solena had her heart set on having escargot for her birthday and that a can had been purchased for her so she probably wouldn't eat much at Joey's unless they had escargot on the menu.
Unfortunately, Joey's doesn't have them on their menu but we decided that when we arrived we would ask Craig, the owner, if he would cook our can of escargots for Solena. Arriving at Joey's we discovered that Craig was away for a week but his future daughter-in-law was managing the restaurant for him. As it turned out, Alex was more than accommodating and suggested several different methods that she could prepare the escargots for us. Settling on a garlic butter recipe, Alex donned her chef's hat and produced the most delicious escargot dish any of us have tasted in years.
Being treated like royalty, Solena, begrudgingly allowed each of us a taste of one escargot and then quietly proceeded to eat the entire dish and announced “we should have bought two cans!”
Alex went that extra mile for us and has solidified our belief that Joey's is a great place to eat. Not only that but we also discovered that Alex and her fiancé own the Joey's Only over in Strathmore – guess where we will be eating the next time we go through Strathmore?
Thank you Alex for making one little girl very happy!
By Pam Jones
We all know that customer service is the most important aspect of a business relationship. Whether we are the customer or the provider, that 'extra mile' is what brings us all the most benefit.
Last Wednesday was my granddaughter, Solena's, tenth birthday and my husband invited her to join us at Joey's Only in High River, for supper. Tanya cautioned us that Solena had her heart set on having escargot for her birthday and that a can had been purchased for her so she probably wouldn't eat much at Joey's unless they had escargot on the menu.
Unfortunately, Joey's doesn't have them on their menu but we decided that when we arrived we would ask Craig, the owner, if he would cook our can of escargots for Solena. Arriving at Joey's we discovered that Craig was away for a week but his future daughter-in-law was managing the restaurant for him. As it turned out, Alex was more than accommodating and suggested several different methods that she could prepare the escargots for us. Settling on a garlic butter recipe, Alex donned her chef's hat and produced the most delicious escargot dish any of us have tasted in years.
Being treated like royalty, Solena, begrudgingly allowed each of us a taste of one escargot and then quietly proceeded to eat the entire dish and announced “we should have bought two cans!”
Alex went that extra mile for us and has solidified our belief that Joey's is a great place to eat. Not only that but we also discovered that Alex and her fiancé own the Joey's Only over in Strathmore – guess where we will be eating the next time we go through Strathmore?
Thank you Alex for making one little girl very happy!
Dawg Days Of Summer Come To End
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After falling behind two games to none in the Western Major Baseball League championship series, the Dawgs were faced with a steep hill to climb. It was a tough 3-1 loss to the Regina Red Sox on Thursday, August 11th.
Dawgs starting pitcher Desmond Sullivan gave up a first inning three-run homer with two outs to the Red Sox's Tony Crudo. However, Sullivan was otherwise brilliant over the next seven innings pitched, allowing only a single hit and striking out 10.
The Dawgs then bounced back at home on Friday, August 12th staying alive with a 7-4 win for Game 3 of the best-of-five series. The Dawgs scored single runs in the 6th, 7th and 8th inning to force a Game 4 on Saturday, August 13th. Unfortunately, the Dawgs weren't able to hold on to their home game winning record for the final game of the 2011 playoffs. With a disappointing loss of 7-3, the Dawg days of summer have come to an end losing the WMBL championship to the Regina Red Sox on Saturday night.
A costly 6th inning sealed the Dawgs’ fate as a homerun by Regina's Randy Ramirez brought across 2 of the 7 runs in the inning. This put the Dawgs at a 7-1 deficit that they could not manage to overcome.
Playoff powerhouse, Kasey Coffman ended his season with a 2-run shot in the 8th inning, giving him 4 homeruns over the playoffs. Austin Voros (Texas A&M International) also put up the first run of the game and gave the Dawgs an early lead, which held until the 6th inning, by launching a homerun over the right-centre field wall.
Dawgs starter, Andrew Kittredge who had been unhittable as a closer, pitched 5 scoreless innings before struggling in the 6th.
A crowd of over 3,500 came out to pay tribute to a hard-fought 2011 Dawgs season.
For more information on the Okotoks Dawgs visit: http://www.dawgsbaseball.ca
After falling behind two games to none in the Western Major Baseball League championship series, the Dawgs were faced with a steep hill to climb. It was a tough 3-1 loss to the Regina Red Sox on Thursday, August 11th.
Dawgs starting pitcher Desmond Sullivan gave up a first inning three-run homer with two outs to the Red Sox's Tony Crudo. However, Sullivan was otherwise brilliant over the next seven innings pitched, allowing only a single hit and striking out 10.
The Dawgs then bounced back at home on Friday, August 12th staying alive with a 7-4 win for Game 3 of the best-of-five series. The Dawgs scored single runs in the 6th, 7th and 8th inning to force a Game 4 on Saturday, August 13th. Unfortunately, the Dawgs weren't able to hold on to their home game winning record for the final game of the 2011 playoffs. With a disappointing loss of 7-3, the Dawg days of summer have come to an end losing the WMBL championship to the Regina Red Sox on Saturday night.
A costly 6th inning sealed the Dawgs’ fate as a homerun by Regina's Randy Ramirez brought across 2 of the 7 runs in the inning. This put the Dawgs at a 7-1 deficit that they could not manage to overcome.
Playoff powerhouse, Kasey Coffman ended his season with a 2-run shot in the 8th inning, giving him 4 homeruns over the playoffs. Austin Voros (Texas A&M International) also put up the first run of the game and gave the Dawgs an early lead, which held until the 6th inning, by launching a homerun over the right-centre field wall.
Dawgs starter, Andrew Kittredge who had been unhittable as a closer, pitched 5 scoreless innings before struggling in the 6th.
A crowd of over 3,500 came out to pay tribute to a hard-fought 2011 Dawgs season.
For more information on the Okotoks Dawgs visit: http://www.dawgsbaseball.ca
Household Hints By Rosemary ~ Cleaning Up Outside
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We noticed that our outside garden furniture hadn't survived the latest family gatherings and barbecues without suffering the use. Little fingers, barbecue sauce, ketchup and mustard can sometimes be a sorry mix with patio chairs and cushions. Although getting older, we hesitate to buy new as the sets are still very sturdy and structurally good. So, off to do a little research on how to give them all a good cleaning and here is the result. Make sure you test all the cleaning suggestions and solutions first in an inconspicuous place before going ahead with any full job.
Weather tolerant fabrics can be cleaned with any good fabric cleaner, follow the manufacturer instructions. Or, fill a bucket with a gallon of warm water, a tablespoon of borax and two tablespoons of a good laundry detergent. Use a soft brush to scrub the fabric, then rinse off with a garden hose, stand up to dry or toss them over the clothesline. Once dry, you may want to spray the cushions with a fabric protector. With our set, the cushions are weather hardy, because they are older I used a “bleach pencil” on the stain spots, filled a large plastic garden barrow with the cleaning solution, soaked the cushions and ran a scrub brush over them. Then rinsed them and hung them up to dry. They are now nice and clean (smell good too).
Aluminum chairs can be cleaned with warm water, dish detergent and a plastic scrubber or fine steel wool. Rinse off the aluminum and dry it. You can go a step further and protect the aluminum with a coating of good quality car wax, but don't get it on the fabric or webbing.
White plastic furniture is cleaned with warm water and about two capfuls of automatic dishwashing detergent; use a double sided soft/scrubber sponge. Let the solution sit for about 20 minutes or so then rinse it off. The dishwashing detergent has mild bleach in it that will help clean the plastic. A friend used one of the super cleaner sponges and found that the above solution worked just as well and cost less.
I wish I had canvas coverings, it's so durable if you can remove the canvas it can be washed in a washing machine and replaced on the frames partially damp to stretch the material back into shape. If it can't be removed, use a soft scrub brush, warm water and a bar of Fels-naptha* (yellow bar) soap, scrub back and forth on the canvas, don't worry about working up a lather. Rinse off with a garden hose and leave out to dry. This will also remove any mildew; a good cleaning method also for awnings and umbrellas.
Just note that if the fabrics are coloured, leaving them out to dry in the sun and using a cleaning solution may cause some of the colour to fade. Seems like a chore, but working outside in the warm weather with an excuse to have the hose on and incidentally managing to take advantage of the occasional cooling spray isn't such a bad job.
We noticed that our outside garden furniture hadn't survived the latest family gatherings and barbecues without suffering the use. Little fingers, barbecue sauce, ketchup and mustard can sometimes be a sorry mix with patio chairs and cushions. Although getting older, we hesitate to buy new as the sets are still very sturdy and structurally good. So, off to do a little research on how to give them all a good cleaning and here is the result. Make sure you test all the cleaning suggestions and solutions first in an inconspicuous place before going ahead with any full job.
Weather tolerant fabrics can be cleaned with any good fabric cleaner, follow the manufacturer instructions. Or, fill a bucket with a gallon of warm water, a tablespoon of borax and two tablespoons of a good laundry detergent. Use a soft brush to scrub the fabric, then rinse off with a garden hose, stand up to dry or toss them over the clothesline. Once dry, you may want to spray the cushions with a fabric protector. With our set, the cushions are weather hardy, because they are older I used a “bleach pencil” on the stain spots, filled a large plastic garden barrow with the cleaning solution, soaked the cushions and ran a scrub brush over them. Then rinsed them and hung them up to dry. They are now nice and clean (smell good too).
Aluminum chairs can be cleaned with warm water, dish detergent and a plastic scrubber or fine steel wool. Rinse off the aluminum and dry it. You can go a step further and protect the aluminum with a coating of good quality car wax, but don't get it on the fabric or webbing.
White plastic furniture is cleaned with warm water and about two capfuls of automatic dishwashing detergent; use a double sided soft/scrubber sponge. Let the solution sit for about 20 minutes or so then rinse it off. The dishwashing detergent has mild bleach in it that will help clean the plastic. A friend used one of the super cleaner sponges and found that the above solution worked just as well and cost less.
I wish I had canvas coverings, it's so durable if you can remove the canvas it can be washed in a washing machine and replaced on the frames partially damp to stretch the material back into shape. If it can't be removed, use a soft scrub brush, warm water and a bar of Fels-naptha* (yellow bar) soap, scrub back and forth on the canvas, don't worry about working up a lather. Rinse off with a garden hose and leave out to dry. This will also remove any mildew; a good cleaning method also for awnings and umbrellas.
Just note that if the fabrics are coloured, leaving them out to dry in the sun and using a cleaning solution may cause some of the colour to fade. Seems like a chore, but working outside in the warm weather with an excuse to have the hose on and incidentally managing to take advantage of the occasional cooling spray isn't such a bad job.
Faith Forum ~ The Narrow Gate By Gloria Wessner
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
When you see wide open gates leading to somewhere, you would naturally expect to find lively, vibrant and exciting things going on. They may be gates to a big city filled with thrilling things to experience. These may not always be good things to be experienced however, and can end in destructive ways. Nearly everyone, if confronted with a choice between a wide open gate and a narrow one, will choose the wide open gate. Just like in the novel 'The Secret Garden' by Frances Hodgson Burnett where the child Mary finds a hidden, secret door to a most wonderful place that she and her companions nurture with love and care to bring it back to the beautiful garden it was, the way into God's Kingdom and to have a relationship with him is only through a narrow gate.
“You can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” (Matthew 7:13, 14 NLT)
This doesn't mean that it is complicated to enter God's Kingdom; it just means that there is only one way to enter heaven, and only some ever choose that way. As one resource puts it: “Believing in Jesus is the only way to heaven, because he alone died for our sins (wrongdoings) and made us right before God. Living his way may not be popular, but it is true and right.”¹
Jesus Himself is the gate. He told this concept in two different ways through a story to help his disciples understand what he meant by saying he was the gate.
“I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.”
“Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn't understand what he meant, so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” (John 10:1-3, 6-10 NLT)
Jesus is more than willing to open the Gate to those who sincerely want to find his good pastures and live for Him. We in turn have our own door to our life we open to him if we desire to believe in Him and live for Him.
“Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” (Revelation 3:20 NLT)
If you desire to chat about what this article is about, or if you would like to explore further about an individual relationship with God, I'd be glad to get back to you. You can write to me at: gloriawes@hotmail.com
¹ Life Application Study Bible, New Living Translation, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Wheaton, Illinois, l996, p. 1418. Parenthesis mine.
“Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few be saved?”
He replied, “Work hard to enter the narrow door to God's Kingdom, for many will try to enter but will fail. When the master of the house has locked the door, it will be too late….” (Luke 13: 23, 24, 25a NLT)
When you see wide open gates leading to somewhere, you would naturally expect to find lively, vibrant and exciting things going on. They may be gates to a big city filled with thrilling things to experience. These may not always be good things to be experienced however, and can end in destructive ways. Nearly everyone, if confronted with a choice between a wide open gate and a narrow one, will choose the wide open gate. Just like in the novel 'The Secret Garden' by Frances Hodgson Burnett where the child Mary finds a hidden, secret door to a most wonderful place that she and her companions nurture with love and care to bring it back to the beautiful garden it was, the way into God's Kingdom and to have a relationship with him is only through a narrow gate.
“You can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” (Matthew 7:13, 14 NLT)
This doesn't mean that it is complicated to enter God's Kingdom; it just means that there is only one way to enter heaven, and only some ever choose that way. As one resource puts it: “Believing in Jesus is the only way to heaven, because he alone died for our sins (wrongdoings) and made us right before God. Living his way may not be popular, but it is true and right.”¹
Jesus Himself is the gate. He told this concept in two different ways through a story to help his disciples understand what he meant by saying he was the gate.
“I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.”
“Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn't understand what he meant, so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” (John 10:1-3, 6-10 NLT)
Jesus is more than willing to open the Gate to those who sincerely want to find his good pastures and live for Him. We in turn have our own door to our life we open to him if we desire to believe in Him and live for Him.
“Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” (Revelation 3:20 NLT)
If you desire to chat about what this article is about, or if you would like to explore further about an individual relationship with God, I'd be glad to get back to you. You can write to me at: gloriawes@hotmail.com
¹ Life Application Study Bible, New Living Translation, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Wheaton, Illinois, l996, p. 1418. Parenthesis mine.
“Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few be saved?”
He replied, “Work hard to enter the narrow door to God's Kingdom, for many will try to enter but will fail. When the master of the house has locked the door, it will be too late….” (Luke 13: 23, 24, 25a NLT)
Gardens Galore: Reading Trees by Karen Brewka
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
I'm not happy to think it, but it's time to start getting our yards and flower beds ready for winter. WHAT!!! But it's still summer! Plants live on a different schedule than we do. Figuring out what they need is something gardeners do all the time.
So, no more fertilizing of anything for me (except my flowers in baskets and containers). No fertilizing my lawn until maybe late September – early October. No fertilizing trees and shrubs and perennials. These plants have to 'harden off' or get ready for dormancy. Plants that do not harden off in time for winter will suffer from 'winterkill'. Top growth that is still soft will burst cells when cold temperatures arrive. Fertilizing now means that the plants will be forced to produce new growth – growth that won't harden off in time. Now is the time for our plants to store carbohydrates in the roots and for deciduous leaves to start being pushed off the branch.
So, no more extra watering (unless it gets very dry or we have newly planted trees and shrubs). We really do not need to add extra water until late fall. Once our plants start to get ready for winter, we need to get out of their way and leave them alone to do so.
But, how do we know what is going on in their schedules? Looking closely, we can see that the new growth that came out in spring is turning dark green and matching the colour of the leaves on the older parts of our trees and shrubs. My shrub rose still has some pale green leaves on the ends of some of the branches. This is because of our late spring. The rose was three weeks late in blooming and it is still late in hardening off. I hope it can catch up. In the meantime, there is no way I would fertilize or water this shrub. I don't want to lose any of this year's new growth.
All the native aspens and poplars are hardening off their new growth. They are well adapted to variations in our crazy climate. My Bur Oak still has bright green leaves on the tips of the branch. I'm really hoping for a long fall and no frost until the end of September. In the meantime I'll be careful to allow more air to circulate around the ground beneath this tree (I'll pull out some of the flowers at its base) so the ground will dry out, allowing the oak to maybe speed up its hardening off process.
I know it's terrible to have to think about winter now but what we do or do not affects our plants. We need to think ahead and plan our gardening activities according to our plants needs.
The Valley Neighbors Garden Club welcomes new members. For information call Bea at 403–933–7131. The Horticultural Club meets every second Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm. For information call Sheila at 403–931–3989.
I'm not happy to think it, but it's time to start getting our yards and flower beds ready for winter. WHAT!!! But it's still summer! Plants live on a different schedule than we do. Figuring out what they need is something gardeners do all the time.
So, no more fertilizing of anything for me (except my flowers in baskets and containers). No fertilizing my lawn until maybe late September – early October. No fertilizing trees and shrubs and perennials. These plants have to 'harden off' or get ready for dormancy. Plants that do not harden off in time for winter will suffer from 'winterkill'. Top growth that is still soft will burst cells when cold temperatures arrive. Fertilizing now means that the plants will be forced to produce new growth – growth that won't harden off in time. Now is the time for our plants to store carbohydrates in the roots and for deciduous leaves to start being pushed off the branch.
So, no more extra watering (unless it gets very dry or we have newly planted trees and shrubs). We really do not need to add extra water until late fall. Once our plants start to get ready for winter, we need to get out of their way and leave them alone to do so.
But, how do we know what is going on in their schedules? Looking closely, we can see that the new growth that came out in spring is turning dark green and matching the colour of the leaves on the older parts of our trees and shrubs. My shrub rose still has some pale green leaves on the ends of some of the branches. This is because of our late spring. The rose was three weeks late in blooming and it is still late in hardening off. I hope it can catch up. In the meantime, there is no way I would fertilize or water this shrub. I don't want to lose any of this year's new growth.
All the native aspens and poplars are hardening off their new growth. They are well adapted to variations in our crazy climate. My Bur Oak still has bright green leaves on the tips of the branch. I'm really hoping for a long fall and no frost until the end of September. In the meantime I'll be careful to allow more air to circulate around the ground beneath this tree (I'll pull out some of the flowers at its base) so the ground will dry out, allowing the oak to maybe speed up its hardening off process.
I know it's terrible to have to think about winter now but what we do or do not affects our plants. We need to think ahead and plan our gardening activities according to our plants needs.
The Valley Neighbors Garden Club welcomes new members. For information call Bea at 403–933–7131. The Horticultural Club meets every second Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm. For information call Sheila at 403–931–3989.
Raiders Take the Title
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
The Okotoks Raiders and Edmonton Eclipse will represent Alberta and compete for the coveted Lacrosse, Minto Cup.
Okotoks Raiders won the Provincial Championship when they defeated the Edmonton Eclipse 9 to 5 in game 5 of their Rocky Mountain Lacrosse League Final to win the series 4 games to 1.
The Canadian Junior A Lacrosse National Championship will be held in Okotoks at the Centennial Arena, 204 Community Way from August 20th to August 28th
Provincial championship teams from Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta will compete for the coveted Minto Cup, the Canadian Lacrosse Association's junior national box lacrosse championship.
The Ontario and British Columbia representatives will be announced in the coming days as teams are still competing for a coveted spot at the Minto.
Tickets are at $15 for adults and $5 for children for the Round Robin series; $20 for adults and $5 for children for the semi-final and final games and Tournament Passes are $90 for adults and $20 for children. Tickets can be purchased in advance by contacting: minto@lacrosse.ca or can be ordered online at: www.mintocup.ca.
The Okotoks Raiders and Edmonton Eclipse will represent Alberta and compete for the coveted Lacrosse, Minto Cup.
Okotoks Raiders won the Provincial Championship when they defeated the Edmonton Eclipse 9 to 5 in game 5 of their Rocky Mountain Lacrosse League Final to win the series 4 games to 1.
The Canadian Junior A Lacrosse National Championship will be held in Okotoks at the Centennial Arena, 204 Community Way from August 20th to August 28th
Provincial championship teams from Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta will compete for the coveted Minto Cup, the Canadian Lacrosse Association's junior national box lacrosse championship.
The Ontario and British Columbia representatives will be announced in the coming days as teams are still competing for a coveted spot at the Minto.
Tickets are at $15 for adults and $5 for children for the Round Robin series; $20 for adults and $5 for children for the semi-final and final games and Tournament Passes are $90 for adults and $20 for children. Tickets can be purchased in advance by contacting: minto@lacrosse.ca or can be ordered online at: www.mintocup.ca.
Alberta Reality TV Features The Fabulous Furballs!
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
Fabulous Furballs is a lively, uplifting, and outrageously funny half-hour reality special revolving around the everyday hijinks that take place within the walls of one of Canada's leading pet grooming schools, the Fabulous Fur Institute. Run by Krista Castellarin - who recently starred in Animal Planet's Groomer Has It - and her star instructors, including flamboyant dog lover John and cat expert Mr. Meow, it's one-part grooming school and one-part comedy shop! Fabulous Furballs follows Krista and her zany staff as they juggle cute canines, peeing cats and sobbing students. The instructors do their best to instill confidence and keep the emotions of the sometimes frazzled students in check. Who has what it takes to become a groomer? And who will be sent home? Despite the kooky and non-traditional atmosphere, the heart of Fabulous Furballs is the hard work, crazy dedication and underlying love this staff has for its ultimate customers - the pets - and the people who spoil them.
Fabulous Furballs will air Wednesday, August 17th at 7:30pm on Slice™. Fabulous Furballs is executive produced by Lance Corbett, president of Ignition Media Productions, and Krista Castellarin, owner of the Fabulous Fur Institute. The program is produced by St. Albert's own Marnie Stretch. The right brain/left brain position of showrunner suits Marnie perfectly. "Finally...my haphazard assortment of 20-plus years of odd jobs and experiences here and in Los Angeles culminate in the perfect calling. Fabulous Furballs is an outrageous blast!" The proudly-Albertan show is rounded out by a brilliant and talented local crew. Post audio is provided by Wolf Willow Sound and post production was masterfully handled by Studio Post. Fabulous Furballs is produced by Ignition Media Productions Inc., in association with Shaw Media, with the assistance of the Alberta Media Development Fund and The Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit.
For more information on the institute itself visit:
www.thefurinstitute.com
Fabulous Furballs is a lively, uplifting, and outrageously funny half-hour reality special revolving around the everyday hijinks that take place within the walls of one of Canada's leading pet grooming schools, the Fabulous Fur Institute. Run by Krista Castellarin - who recently starred in Animal Planet's Groomer Has It - and her star instructors, including flamboyant dog lover John and cat expert Mr. Meow, it's one-part grooming school and one-part comedy shop! Fabulous Furballs follows Krista and her zany staff as they juggle cute canines, peeing cats and sobbing students. The instructors do their best to instill confidence and keep the emotions of the sometimes frazzled students in check. Who has what it takes to become a groomer? And who will be sent home? Despite the kooky and non-traditional atmosphere, the heart of Fabulous Furballs is the hard work, crazy dedication and underlying love this staff has for its ultimate customers - the pets - and the people who spoil them.
Fabulous Furballs will air Wednesday, August 17th at 7:30pm on Slice™. Fabulous Furballs is executive produced by Lance Corbett, president of Ignition Media Productions, and Krista Castellarin, owner of the Fabulous Fur Institute. The program is produced by St. Albert's own Marnie Stretch. The right brain/left brain position of showrunner suits Marnie perfectly. "Finally...my haphazard assortment of 20-plus years of odd jobs and experiences here and in Los Angeles culminate in the perfect calling. Fabulous Furballs is an outrageous blast!" The proudly-Albertan show is rounded out by a brilliant and talented local crew. Post audio is provided by Wolf Willow Sound and post production was masterfully handled by Studio Post. Fabulous Furballs is produced by Ignition Media Productions Inc., in association with Shaw Media, with the assistance of the Alberta Media Development Fund and The Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit.
For more information on the institute itself visit:
www.thefurinstitute.com
Pet Ponderings by Tracey Walshaw ~ Mosquitos and Fleas and Ticks – Oh My!
Click on the article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of this post.
Hikers and dog walkers got a scare this summer with the announcement that the species of tick carrying Lyme Disease was found in our neck of the woods. Out of the 100's of different species of this little blood-sucker there is only one that carries the disease – the blacklegged ticks AND only 10% of those can infect you or your pet. The last time I got close enough to a tick I was too busy screaming “GET IT OFF ME” to look at the colour of it's legs! There are a lot of misconceptions about ticks and how to dislodge them. You don't need to burn them off, just use tweezers or wear surgical gloves and pull them off, making sure the grasping mouth parts come with it (these things look like aliens under a microscope). The tick will actually dislodge itself once it's full but you don't have to wait for that. They also do not bury themselves completely under your skin and live there. For the lowdown on Lyme Disease and what to watch for, check out the Government Public Health website: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/id-mi/lyme-fs-eng.php#s3.
The usual pest that pet lovers deal with are fleas. These tiny little creatures can multiply faster than rabbits. My vet once told me that if you find one you likely have hundreds more in your house! My first exposure to fleas was on a visit to Texas. The dogs we encountered were literally “jumping” with them! The warm weather prolongs the life cycle down there. We tend to see them in the summer here but once they get into your house they can live through the winter. Cleaning in nooks and crannies, washing bedding and other areas frequented by pets are recommended. But, you must also treat your dog and cat with a medication. You can get the topical kind that is just a drop between the shoulder blades. This medication is usually good for both fleas and ticks. It enters your pet's bloodstream and infects the invaders when they feast on fido. Fleas jump from host to host, so those gophers and mice your cats are “playing” with are likely carriers.
On the topic of rodents, they also pass worms to those who devour them – namely our kitties. Getting on a regular routine of worming your cats every year is a good thing. If your dog gets worms then his poop is also going to pass along the parasite to whomever encounters it. We all know where dogs plant their noses, so being a good caregiver means picking up after your pooch.
Now that your skin is really crawling we hear about mosquitos carrying West Nile! Apparently your dog can get West Nile (as can you). A mosquito will get it by biting an infected host (bird, etc) and then after the virus incubates (5 to 15 days) the bug bites the next victim and passes on the virus. You can buy mosquito repellent specifically for dogs, but also avoiding peak mosquito times (dawn and dusk) will make it more comfortable for both of you. The other disease the mosquitos can carry is heartworm but we don't see that in our part of the country because we have such a short summer. The hot spots in Canada can experience this deadly disease and all of the United States at some time or other so if you are travelling it wouldn't hurt to have your dog vaccinated. One shot will prevent a lot of heartache.
So, there you go! Don't let this cause you nightmares; just be on the alert and be as proactive as possible, so your summer isn't spoiled!
Hikers and dog walkers got a scare this summer with the announcement that the species of tick carrying Lyme Disease was found in our neck of the woods. Out of the 100's of different species of this little blood-sucker there is only one that carries the disease – the blacklegged ticks AND only 10% of those can infect you or your pet. The last time I got close enough to a tick I was too busy screaming “GET IT OFF ME” to look at the colour of it's legs! There are a lot of misconceptions about ticks and how to dislodge them. You don't need to burn them off, just use tweezers or wear surgical gloves and pull them off, making sure the grasping mouth parts come with it (these things look like aliens under a microscope). The tick will actually dislodge itself once it's full but you don't have to wait for that. They also do not bury themselves completely under your skin and live there. For the lowdown on Lyme Disease and what to watch for, check out the Government Public Health website: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/id-mi/lyme-fs-eng.php#s3.
The usual pest that pet lovers deal with are fleas. These tiny little creatures can multiply faster than rabbits. My vet once told me that if you find one you likely have hundreds more in your house! My first exposure to fleas was on a visit to Texas. The dogs we encountered were literally “jumping” with them! The warm weather prolongs the life cycle down there. We tend to see them in the summer here but once they get into your house they can live through the winter. Cleaning in nooks and crannies, washing bedding and other areas frequented by pets are recommended. But, you must also treat your dog and cat with a medication. You can get the topical kind that is just a drop between the shoulder blades. This medication is usually good for both fleas and ticks. It enters your pet's bloodstream and infects the invaders when they feast on fido. Fleas jump from host to host, so those gophers and mice your cats are “playing” with are likely carriers.
On the topic of rodents, they also pass worms to those who devour them – namely our kitties. Getting on a regular routine of worming your cats every year is a good thing. If your dog gets worms then his poop is also going to pass along the parasite to whomever encounters it. We all know where dogs plant their noses, so being a good caregiver means picking up after your pooch.
Now that your skin is really crawling we hear about mosquitos carrying West Nile! Apparently your dog can get West Nile (as can you). A mosquito will get it by biting an infected host (bird, etc) and then after the virus incubates (5 to 15 days) the bug bites the next victim and passes on the virus. You can buy mosquito repellent specifically for dogs, but also avoiding peak mosquito times (dawn and dusk) will make it more comfortable for both of you. The other disease the mosquitos can carry is heartworm but we don't see that in our part of the country because we have such a short summer. The hot spots in Canada can experience this deadly disease and all of the United States at some time or other so if you are travelling it wouldn't hurt to have your dog vaccinated. One shot will prevent a lot of heartache.
So, there you go! Don't let this cause you nightmares; just be on the alert and be as proactive as possible, so your summer isn't spoiled!
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