A Tasty Twist On A Versatile Favourite

On weekend mornings, few things are as comforting as waking up and enjoying a leisurely, homemade breakfast. As relaxing as such meals can be, they can also be just as relaxing at dinner time. Pancakes, for instance, will always be synonymous with breakfast, but that hasn't stopped pancake afficionados from enjoying their favorite flapjacks at dinner.
In addition to their versatility as to when they can be eaten, pancakes can also include a host of different ingredients, such as the following recipe:
Egg, Shrimp and Scallion Pancakes
Serves 4 to 6 with 2 or 3 other dishes
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled
5 eggs, beaten
2 scallions, white and green parts, chopped
Salt
Canola or other neutral oil for frying
Fish sauce or light soy sauce for serving

Refresh the shrimp by putting them in a colander and tossing them with a liberal amount of salt. Rinse immediately under cold water and press gently to drain well. Put the shrimp in a bowl, add the eggs and scallions, and mix well.
Put enough oil into a large nonstick skillet to coat the bottom thinly. Place over medium heat and heat until a drop of egg immediately sizzles and bubbles upon contact with the oil. To make each pancake, ladle about 2 tablespoons of the egg mixture into the skillet, making sure that a few shrimp are included in each portion, and then quickly nudge the shrimp in each pool of egg so they don't overlap. Fry only as many pancakes at once as will fit without crowding, about 3 pancakes at a time in a 12-inch skillet. Don't worry about the shape each one takes, as they are meant to be free-form. When the edges of a pancake are set and lightly browned, after about 2 minutes, use a spatula to turn it carefully. (If the pancakes have stuck together, use the spatula to separate them before flipping.) Fry for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, until browned on the second side. Transfer the finished pancakes to a plate and keep warm while you fry the rest.
Arrange the pancakes in 2 plates or a platter and serve with the fish sauce for dipping.

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Rowan House - Building to Give Back

We are excited to say that we have begun our building! This month the utility services were put in and the basement was dug! Watch for lots of activity in the next few weeks as the basement forms go in and the foundation is poured. We will need to continue to fundraise an additional $300,000 that will complete the furnishings, landscaping and children's play areas, inside and out. If you are interested in helping in any way, please call Sherrie at 403-938-6785 or email director@rowanhouse.ca.
Our Christmas Campaign will kick off in November. As in previous years, we will be requesting gift cards that will be given to the women we work with, enabling them to purchase gifts for themselves and their families. This is an amazing way we can give a woman back the dignity she deserves by being able to purchase what her family needs.
The following fundraising events are coming up this fall. Soup Sisters at Diamond Willow Retreat: Here's an idea for a group gathering - grab your sorority sisters, your book club or your yoga friends and book one of the upcoming Diamond Valley Soup Sisters! November 27th (Diamond Willow will be all decorated for Christmas) or January 29th (amid a winter wonderland). Join us to make some nurturing and nourishing soups with Chef Darren Nixon of Divine. A lovely afternoon ending with salad, soup and a sip or two of wine! The soup is taken to Rowan House for women & children to enjoy. Blackie Lions Club Breakfast sponsored by Al Gaja of Crop Production Services, High River will be held on Saturday November 5th from 8 to 11 am at the Blackie Community Hall. We hope you can attend. All money raised goes directly to Rowan House. The Reverend Elvis & Friends Blue Christmas, November 29th at the Southern AB Jubilee Auditorium, Rowan House is the Platinum Sponsor. On a related note, the Okotoks Scrapbook Convention had only one third of the attendees as last year but more money was raised for Rowan House – a donation of $8,418.04! Good job, scrapbook enthusiasts!
Remember that you can help Rowan House in many ways. Please visit our website at www.rowanhouse.ca or call 403-938-6785 to DONATE. Rowan House Emergency Shelter will receive a $4.00 donation from the sale of each book donated by Susan Raby-Dunne, available for purchase at the Chuckwagon Cafe in Turner Valley. Both an explorer of the open road and a spiritual adventurer, Susan Raby-Dunne has lived life-by-motorcycle for over thirty years. Join her on an eclectic journey of the soul and the saddle from the highways of Canada to America and Europe. Rest Your Head on the Wind is a woman's story about a passion for motorcycles, travel, self discovery and veteran advocacy, war healing and personal transformation. Coco Rouge in Okotoks and Vespucci in High River both have an account set up in Rowan House's name. If you are looking to donate gently used clothing these two stores will forward the proceeds to Rowan House. Shop and Share - People can go to www.shopandshare.ca and select from a wide range of well-known, brand name stores, shop online, and then have a portion of the proceeds donated to Rowan House. It's free for you and for Rowan House so create an account today!

Longview Link ~ We Did It! By Chey Nickerson

The folks in Longview and surrounding areas took part in the Longview Extreme Makeover on Saturday, October 15th and what an amazing job they did. All week the park was busy with removal of the old playground equipment and the arrival of the new. Volunteers worked diligently to install the ground works for the playground equipment to be anchored to. On Saturday morning before the sun came up, people slowly arrived with shovels, rakes and wheelbarrows to “build the playground”. If this wasn't enough, a crowd also got together in front of the Village Office where the Huge rocks which have been lying on the front lawn were put in place. Memorial Park, phase one of a two year project, is well underway and the second phase will include a Serenity Garden when complete.
Where do you begin to say thank you to such a great group of Volunteers? Hours and hours were spent by Michele and Tony G. to lay the ground work for the playground and lead the work crews on build day but without the help of all the individuals who took part in the build at both locations none of this would have been completed. Thanks to the ladies church group and the Kirks (Jerky Shop) who fed all the other volunteers and worked endlessly to make things come together. After all, that's always a very important part of the socializing during the day!! I hope that everyone who took part realizes what a feat they have accomplished. The Bert Smith – Lorne Fuller Playground will stand proud for many years and we hope that everyone will enjoy the gardens and the new look of the Village Office. I'm sure that a list will follow with all the sponsors and individual donors, but in the meantime, THANK YOU to everyone who helped in any way to make our EXTREME MAKEOVER a huge success. I'm sure there will be pictures floating around of the events and we'll try to get a collection of them at the office if you wish to have a look. You all make Longview a very special little Village and we have every right to be proud of our Extreme Makeover!


Thanks everyone
Chey

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Foothills School Divison - Restored Education Funding

Premier Alison Redford's decision to restore $107 million in funding to provincial school boards for the 2011/2012 school year is welcome news for our division and others throughout the province. We have begun receiving information from Alberta Education regarding the restored funding, which will begin to flow next month. We are awaiting further information from the School Finance Branch about the individual allocation for Foothills School Division. In the meantime, we have begun the process of determining how to best utilize the additional funding to support student learning and success in our classrooms this year. While this is clearly a positive development for our division and our students, it also creates challenges regarding the most appropriate and effective way to direct this funding when a new school year is already underway and teachers have started to build relationships with their students. However, we will work with our schools and school based administrators to determine divisional priorities that enhance our efforts to lead and support student learning and achievement through high quality programming, taught by high-skilled and qualified staff. As we have done throughout the budget process for this school year, we are committed to keeping our valued employees and our stakeholders informed. We will share more information once our plans for this additional funding are confirmed. We will be working to complete our planning by November 30th, 2011 as requested by Alberta Education.

What To Do With The Kids on Halloween

Halloween is a great time and can be a lot of fun for both kids and adults. The highlight of course is going door to door and having people give you candy. Here are a few tips that will hopefully prepare parents for making the evening fun for everyone:

• Encourage the kids to use facial make up instead of a mask.
• Spend the extra dollar and purchase quality make-up. You don't want your kid to have that same look at Christmas.
• If possible, design the costume to accommodate a sweater or even a jacket underneath depending on the weather.
• Make sure that all costumes and accessories are flame resistant.
• Keep in mind how much walking they'll be doing for their age. You don't want to have to carry your little ghoul home.
• Carry extra bags to dump candy in so the kids don't get overly tired.
• If you have more than one kid to supervise, try bringing a wagon or cart to unload the candy in as they go door to door.
• If you're taking other kids with you, set out the rules before you leave and make sure they understand.
• Instruct the kids to stay with you and off the lawns and out of the gardens.
• Remind the kids to say thank you, even if they get crappy candy.
• Be prepared to carry the props after a while.
• Inspect all candy when you get home. Throw away homemade, unwrapped or open candy.
• Let them have one piece of wrapped candy while on the walk as a treat/break.
• Bring a flashlight and give them glow sticks to wear.
• Don't let them walk in the middle of the streets. Cars will still travel on roads October 31st.
• If the front light is out but they have Halloween decorations, there is a good chance that they have no more candy.
• If the lights are out, the people are hiding in the back and have no candy to give.
• Carry a small, portable first aid kit for those little cuts and injuries.
• Many people bring their dogs with them and dress them up in costumes such as hot dogs or as Satan. Instruct the kids to ask the owner if they can pet the animal BEFORE they do. There is a good chance that the animal is embarrassed to be in a costume and may want to take it out on a human.
• When the kids go to the door, stay close by and watch carefully.
• Set a strict curfew for older kids that go out on their own.
• Kids are NEVER to go into the house unless you know them.
• If you have to drive, slow down more than usual.
• Give the kids a snack before they go out. They won't complain about being hungry and want to eat the candy.
• Take half the candy and place it in the freezer for use in the summer.

Halloween is a great time for kids and you can keep it that way by following a few of our tips when they come to your door October 31st:

• Keep the path to your door clear of all obstacles and well lit.
• Don't terrorize the kids. It's all about fun and not making them wet their pants.
• Be extremely careful with the candle in your pumpkin so that nothing bursts into flames, including a kid's costume. Consider using a battery powered light or glow sticks.
• Use flashlights, glow sticks or electric lights with the power cord safe and secured.
• If you have a dog, keep it in another room and away from the door.
• If you're going to give candy, give only store bought wrapped items such as chocolate bars, chips, etc. Loose candy will be thrown out by the parents.
• Alternative giving can include pencils, erasers or stickers with a Halloween theme.
• If you've spent a lot of time on your Halloween display, you may want to consider putting some sort of SAFE fencing around it so that everyone can enjoy it without it being trampled.
• Halloween candy is magically calorie and fat free on October 31st so feel free to use the “one for you, one for me” rule.

What To Do With The Kids (WTDWTK) has also added a collection of pumpkin carving stencils, along with information on having a Halloween Party and decorating your house for the big night. All of these can be found at www.whattodowiththekids.com

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Longview School - Let Learning Soar

We welcomed many parents and community members to our drama presentation about the meaning of Thanksgiving on Thursday, October 6th. The overall goal of our drama presentations at Longview School is to foster a positive self-concept in students by encouraging them to explore life by assuming theatric roles and acquiring dramatic skills. Throughout the year we will be presenting a number of dramatic performances in meeting the learner outcomes outlined in the drama, music and art program of studies. The performance began with the Grade 3/4 class performing the reading: I know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie! Dressed in costumes they made. Grade 1/2 sang the song Ode to Thanksgiving and Kindergarten students sang three songs: I'm Thankful, Thanksgiving Song and Turkey on the Farm. The Grade 5/6 class did a reading called The Canadian Thanksgiving Song and performed skits based on the books Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving and The Night Before Thanksgiving. In celebrating our First Nations culture our Grade 5/6 Stoney students performed an Iroquois Legend called: The Spirit of the Corn. This type of choral speech and storytelling addressed outcomes in both drama and language arts program of studies. The general outcomes learned include, developing vocal skills, interpretive skills, appreciation and enjoyment of literature, developing empathy through experiencing thoughts and feelings of other people through stories, developing language skills through the language processes of speaking, listening, writing and reading. Students also learned about the dramatic outcomes of mime. They learned to express themselves physically and imaginatively through movement and gesture and learned to communicate feelings and ideas that cannot be expressed adequately in words. Many exciting art, music, drama activities and experiences have been planned for our students and a calendar of events for the entire school year has been forwarded to parents.
Flag football has wrapped up with the Grade 5/6 class travelling to McMahon Stadium for a day of fun and flag football on Friday, October 14th. Our students had a great time playing a number of different school teams from around the Foothills School Division, teams that they had played throughout the season. It was a great flag football season and a big Thank You is extended to the team for their sportsmanship and great effort, as well as, Mr. Musgrove for being the most amazing coach in the world. The sports skills program, Mr. Musgrove is offering our Grade 5/6 students at lunch on Fridays, is making a big difference in their performance. 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. The saying is, “Once an eagle, always an eagle”. This motto, is really about the qualities, characteristics and behaviours we expect from and foster in our students. We have many reasons for being proud and we celebrate them at every opportunity. It is for this reason we have implemented an Eagle Pride Time every Friday afternoon. Students participate in school wide Eagle Pride activities. These team building and pride activities energize and engage our students to always do their best in everything they do!

C. Ian McLaren News ~ Character Ed.

At C. Ian McLaren School we reach beyond academics, to help our students' development as a person. Character education teaches universally-accepted value, such as respect, responsibility, integrity and honour and motivates youth to incorporate these values into their lives. Good character is essential for success in all aspects of life, from career to social relationships. As our mascot at our school is a cougar, we focus on what we call characteristics of a McLaren cougar.
The school will be focusing on eight virtues this year that constitute a McLaren cougar: kindness, forgiveness, honesty, respectfulness, responsibility, striving for excellence and acceptance. Teachers work on these virtues in the classroom, playground and in our family groups.
Family Groups are multi age groups of students from Kindergarten to Grade 6, who participate in various activities. An older child learns to be considerate, helpful and patient with a younger child. As they imitate the older students, they also bolster their self-confidence. With some direction and guidance, the older child can learn the difference between being helpful and bossy. A younger child will, in turn, imitate an older child, learning social skills and becoming aware of his or her own new abilities. The desire to be like the older children helps the younger children become more self sufficient. As part of our Character Education program we participate in Monthly Family Grouping activities.
We also have monthly assemblies which recognize students who demonstrate characteristics of a McLaren cougar. Students are nominated by an adult or other student in the school. They have a leaf place on our Character Education tree. At the assembly they receive a certificate and have their name entered into a draw for a Beanie Baby cougar. Four students are chosen at each assembly. We value recognizing students for positive behavior.
Kelso's Choice is another program we use in our school. Kelso's Choice is a program that helps students to differentiate when to solve small problems on their own and when to ask for adult assistance for a big problem.

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Millarville’s Cool News

The Grade One class is completing the first unit of inquiry, How We Organize Ourselves. Our central idea is “Environmental print provides people with information about the world.” We have been reading “environmental print” in our homes, school and community. We read traffic and safety signs, store signs and food labels. We are reading books and all the words on the walls in our school.
We have been looking for patterns in the world around us, too. We used our five senses in experiments and talked about using our senses at Thanksgiving time. Yum!
We are making our traditional Grade One quilt with help from the ladies from the Country Lane Quilting Guild.
We developed our essential agreements at the beginning of the year: hands are for helping, be respectful, listen and look at the speaker, care for other people. We have built a solid foundation for learning and working together for the year ahead!

Saddles and Service, Winston Parker's Story

Okotoks resident Winston Parker will sign copies of his new memoir, Saddles and Service, on Thursday, November 10th from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the Foothills Centennial Centre in Okotoks. During a short program at 1:30 pm professional auctioneer, Stacey McInenly of Vulcan, will sell the first book out of the box and the proceeds will be donated to the Foothills Country Hospice.
A colourful addition to the pages of Alberta's history, Saddles and Service's mid-November release is appropriate as Canada marks Remembrance Day and remembers its heroes.
Parker, who earned a distinguished World War II service record and a chest full of medals, will spend Remembrance Day just as he has for the past 66 years. He will pay his respects to his fallen comrades at both formal community observances and later alone in pensive reflection.
Never in his wildest dreams could this young Albertan have imagined how the war would change his life. As soon as Parker heard that England and France had declared war on Germany on September 3rd, 1939, he drove from the farm near Red Deer Lake to Calgary and joined the Royal Canadian Air Force. It was only natural. A first-generation Canadian whose parents emigrated from Britain, he had been raised with a strong sense of patriotism and was influenced by World War I flying ace Wop May when he was a child.
Parker, whose memory is exceedingly sharp, told his life story to writer Elaine Taylor Thomas, who captured his recollections. Her company, Calla Communications, Inc. of La Grange, Texas, has published this entertaining and insightful 330-page book.
“Perhaps it was only fitting that Winston Churchill Parker should meet his namesake at 10 Downing Street, London, during World War II. It is in keeping with other events in the colourful life of this southern Alberta rancher,” said Hugh A Dempsey, Editor of Alberta History and Chief Curator Emeritus of the Glenbow Museum, Calgary, Alberta.

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MONEY MENTORS

Money Mentors, in conjunction with other organizations, is promoting Financial Literacy from October 30th to November 30th.
Awareness, Awareness, Awareness - Dolores Ongaro, Personal Money Coach
The secret to success in real estate is location, location, location. For financial success, awareness is key -- whether you are in debt or have significant investments. If you overspend, you need to be aware of where that money is going. By tracking their spending, many of my clients discovered they are spending up to $700 on coffees and fast food. Once you're aware of this, you can make other choices for a portion of that money.
What about investments? Even if your strategy is to hold stocks for the long term, you need to be aware of how your investments are doing. For example, selling Nortel stocks at $55 would have likely hurt a lot less than holding them until they were worth 15 cents. Burying your statements, unopened in a drawer, is never a good idea.
Debt? What's the interest rate on your loans and credit cards? A shocking number of credit card holders have no idea. Call the credit card company; ask about lowering your interest rate.
Once you are aware of your situation, you can make a plan to implement some changes. If you can't do it yourself, seek help from professionals, books, banks and the internet. Money Mentors has a wealth of information at moneymentors.ca
Community Information Sessions are back!
Money Mentors offers free Community Information Sessions on the second Wednesday of the month from 6:30 to 7:30 pm at our offices (in Calgary we are located at 1200 - 59 Ave SE)
November 9th: Tackle Debt
Practical ways to decrease personal debt -- featuring Guest Speaker for Financial Literacy Month
December 14th: Credit Rating IQ
Learn how credit ratings work and why it's important to check yours regularly

For more information on sessions in your area, visit moneymentors.ca
To invite Money Mentors to your conference, wellness fair or tradeshow, please contact our Community Relations Coordinator wcoristine@moneymentors.ca or (403) 234-6198.
Find us on Facebook for Money Mentors news and tips:
Follow @MoneyMentors on Twitter.com and tweet us a question.
Our Customer Service Representatives are available Monday to Thursday 8am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday 9am to 5pm at 1-888-294-0076.

Turner Valley School News

Message From Principal Bennington
It seems that this month has “blazed” by leaving us with a blaze of autumn colors and a September to remember. What amazing weather we had! The school year is in full swing with classes fully engaged in learning and a variety of excellent events that are planned. Our school is involved in an environmental stewardship project with BP Canada and we showed our first videos at the grade 6 assembly on October 21st.
The staff at Turner Valley School is committed to character education and the creation of a safe, caring and supportive environment for all. We have launched our wall of fame once again with our assembly on October 21st. Our grade 6 leadership class is contributing with safety patrol by providing safe crossing in the mornings and after school. We very much appreciate parent support of this by being a role model and using the crosswalk when the patrol is on duty.
Our school council has held their first meeting and the executive is in place. These meetings are open to all and we encourage as many parents as possible to get involved with school council. It is our goal to work together to make our school community the best it can be.
This year we are involving students in conferences with parents and teachers. Research shows that having students included in the assessment process greatly enhances their understanding of their learning and achievement. During this interview students will lead a discussion of their learning to date and establish goals that will help them reach their potential.
Ask The Principal ~ How do I volunteer at Turner Valley school?
Volunteers play a very important role at Turner Valley School. Volunteers help us out in many ways including serving on school council, supervising field trips, helping in the classroom, hot lunch days, sports and the list goes on …. We have volunteers who come on a regular basis and others who bring a specific skill or talents that complements our school programs. The goal is to have volunteers help us where there are needs and maintain optimum learning environments for the students. That is why we have restrictions around bringing younger siblings while volunteering as an example.
In order to become a volunteer you must:

• Be approved and is responsible to the Principal
• Must complete a Volunteer Registration Form (Available at school)
• Must complete a criminal records check. (Letter from school required)
• Abide by the schools volunteer code of conduct.
• Understand that confidentiality is of the utmost importance.

Generally the process of becoming a volunteer is a simple and easy process. If you have a desire to become a volunteer you can find information on our website or just drop in to the school.
Mark Your Calendars
The Scholastic Book Fair is coming to our school from Oct 21st to Oct 31st. This is a great place to start your Christmas shopping!
Second Annual 'Turner Valley's Got Talent' Friday, November 4th, 7 pm to 9 pm. Plan for an entertaining evening out!

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Sheep River Library News

From ghoulies and ghosties
And long-leggedy beasties
And things that go bump in the night,
Good Lord, deliver us!
~Scottish Saying
As we are all aware, Halloween is celebrated on October 31st. Traditional activities include trick or treating, bonfires, costume parties, haunted houses and carving jack-o-lanterns. Most of these traditions come from the Irish and Scottish immigrants who came to North America in the 1800s. But the origins of Halloween go back much further to the ancient Celts and the festival of Samhain, which was a celebration at the end of the harvest season. The ancient Gaels believed that on October 31st the boundaries between the worlds of the living and the dead overlapped and the deceased would come back to life and cause havoc in the form of sickness or damaged crops. Many of the activities we participate in now had their origins in the appeasing of these spirits. Costumes were worn and bonfires lit to scare them away. The Druids were given food (treats) as they visited homes as a way to keep the bad spirits at bay. If nothing was given, then the homeowner may suffer consequences. (tricks). These days trick or treaters rarely have to resort to their bag of tricks as most homeowners have jumped on the commercial band wagon and are stocked up with enough candy to please any and all comers and their pillow cases.
This year at the library we also have something for all those little candyholics. From 5:00 to 7:00pm on October 31st we will be offering free hot chocolate and cookies to any child who drops by in their costume. Any child dressed up as a literary character will be eligible to enter one of two draws for a basket of books (pre-school and elementary.) So, put us on your route!
Our Fall programming is in full swing with some notable highlights. We received our telescope with much joy and gladness on October 14th. We are very honoured to be the first library in Canada to be part of the Lending Telescope Project. The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (Calgary Centre) did a wonderful presentation and the weather co-operated enough that we were able to see Jupiter with its four moons and the craters of our own moon. Our telescope can be signed out by patrons for one week. We also suggest you make use of some of our new astronomy guides and books to make your telescope time profitable. If your child missed the presentation, the RASC will be doing another talk on our PD day afternoon on October 28th. Our movie for that morning will be Spooky Buddies.
Gita, our resident board game expert has started a Board Game Club on Tuesdays from 4 to 5pm. So, if you have nothing planned on those cold after school afternoons come on down and join in on a game or learn a new one. There is quite a variety available to satisfy everyone from the serious budding chess champion to those who like to sink battleships.
Other upcoming courses are Mortgages for the Real Estate Investor (October 26th) and First Time Home Buyers (November 9th). Our travel talks continue with Gavin John who will share his stories and photographs of his recent trip to Iraq and the Middle East. (November 2nd – not October 12th as erroneously advertised last issue). There is also room in the teleconference on November 3rd regarding the Community Spirit Program for organizations that are registered non-profit or charitable who are considering applying for this grant.
If you are more interested in spending money than finding it come to our Lia Sophia jewellery party on Saturday, November 5th from noon to 4pm.This will be a great way to get a jump start on your Christmas shopping for all the females on your list. A portion of the proceeds will go to the library
Just a reminder to all our patrons that November 11th is a statutory day and the library will be closed.

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HOPE in the Colour of Orange

On October 19th, a very special book was launched at a ceremony attended by: The Honourable Irene Bakker, Honorary Consul of the Netherlands; Colonel Omer Lavoie, Commander of 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group and responsible for Canada’s combat forces for our four Western Provinces; Garfield Johnston, WWII Veteran and inspiration for the book; and the Monday Morning Writers Group, Susan Raby-Dunne, Sheelagh Mathews, Angela Simmons, Marika d’Ailly, Evonne Smulders and Clovar Slusar who were responsible for the conception and production of the book.
Hope in the Colour of Orange is a collection of biographical memoirs compiled by Marika d’Ailly recalling memories of the Canadian Liberation of Holland during WWII.
Around seventy people attended the ceremony, held at the Sheep River Library at which Colonel Lavoie aptly described the book as a “Legacy to 200,000 soldiers who 70 years ago showed valour, professionalism and courage”. He also described the book as a sharing of collective heritage.”
Doug Lauchlan, MC for the event, introduced Gordon Day and Doug MacNeill, from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 78, Turner Valley who presented the national flags of Canada and the Netherlands.
Denise Withnell, recording artist from Turner Valley led the singing of O Canada, which was followed by the national anthem of the Netherlands.
Many of the participants in the book were in attendance and were presented with a copy of the book.
A family-friendly reading from the book will take place at the library on November 5th from 1:00 to 3:00pm.
There will also be an inspiring evening of readings and conversation at Bluerock Gallery in Black Diamond from 6:30 to 8:00pm on November 10th, the evening before Remembrance Day.
You can purchase your copy of the book at Bluerock Gallery in Black Diamond.

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Brazilian Guitar Duo To Perform In High River

Classical guitarists Joao Luiz and Douglas Lora, internationally acclaimed musicians from Brazil, will be in High River Sunday, November 6th at 3:00pm as part of their 2011 US tour. Winner of the Concert Artists Guild International Competition in 2006, Luiz and Lora are equally at home with classical or world music.
The Brazil Guitar Duo has been performing together for more than twelve years, perfecting a sublime synchronicity and effortless style. Guitar aficionados and lovers of world music will not want to miss this moving concert. As well as many successful tours, Luiz and Lora have played with several symphony orchestras, performing both traditional and new concerti for guitar and orchestra.
Tickets are available from High River United Church, 123 Macleod Trail, High River, phone 403-652-3168 or Pixie Hollow Book Store, 417 1st St. SW, High River, phone 403-649-8800. Adults - $25.00, Senior - $20.00, Students - $5.00.
For more information contact Michele Wheatley-Brown at 403652-2895 or view the Gift of Music web site at:
www.highrivergiftofmusic.com

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Stampede Princess Hails from the Foothills

Another Oilfields High School Alumni has made the big time!
This time it is Jessica Manning who was recently crowned as one of the Calgary Stampede Princesses.
Jessica grew up in the Black Diamond and Longview area and is well know to many of us.
“Alberta is one of the most incredible places to showcase our Western Heritage. We still have working cowboys and our beef industry, I am proud to be a part of promoting my roots and our heritage” said Jessica. She went on to say that this experience has already been amazing and that they are so fortunate to have such fantastic sponsors to help them.
Jessica and her co-royalty, Queen Candice Lee, Princess Danielle Gariepy and Indian Princess, Amelia Crowshoe have already become fast friends and Jessica is still in awe of her place as a princess to help promote the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth as it enters its Centennial year.
Jessica is looking forward to the experience and expresses her gratitude to all her family and friends who have helped and supported her during these past few months. “I think my mom [Marian Anton] has been even more nervous than me, if that’s possible,” she laughed, “and I can’t believe the display she has on her desk at work [Black Diamond Town Office].”
Taking a year off from her studies in equine osteopathy will be hard but as she proudly says, “This is a once in a lifetime experience.”
Congratulations Jessica!

The Rat Pack Win Bronze in St. George

A locally based women's softball team, The RAT PACK, returned home with a BRONZE medal from the Huntsman Senior Games in St. George Utah in early October.
The women competed in the 55+ division, which consisted of twenty-five teams from Canada and the USA. The ladies played seven games in all over a three day period. A closely fought match against the gold medal team from Vancouver (lost by 1 run in the bottom of the 7th) knocked the team down to the bronze medal match.
The ladies would like to thank coach, Harry Cowan, and scorekeeper, Stewart Thomson, for all their help, encouragement and support.

Alberta Government approves funding for Blackie School improvements

Alberta Infrastructure has approved $987,000 in funding to be used for removal of the old north wing of Blackie School and construction of a new mechanical room, equipped with energy-efficient mechanical systems, on part of that space. The project is expected to get underway in spring 2012 with the goal of having it completed as quickly as possible prior to the start of the 2012/2013 school year.
“We were very pleased to receive this news from Alberta Infrastructure as it will enable our Division to implement facility improvements that will enhance the comfort of students and staff at Blackie School, improve the operational efficiency of the mechanical systems at the school and save money,” said Denise Rose, Superintendent of Schools, Foothills School Division (FSD).
This facility proposal was approved by FSD's Board of Trustees as part of a facility review process undertaken beginning in 2004 to evaluate the utilization of its schools. In the case of Blackie School, the Division was incurring significant costs to operate and maintain the north wing; space that was not required based on current and projected enrolment numbers at the time. As a result, the north wing was closed following the 2007/2008 school year.
Blackie School is currently operating at approximately 50 per cent capacity, so the school still has ample space to accommodate students should enrolment increase in the future.
Through the facility review process, the Division also identified the need to replace the antiquated boilers and air exchangers with more energy-efficient systems. A new mechanical room will be built on part of the space presently occupied by the old north wing, space that dates back to 1927 and 1950.
School families have been invited to attend the next Blackie School Council meeting on October 26, 2011 to learn more about the project as well as discuss and provide feedback on ideas to commemorate the old north wing and utilize the additional space to enhance the school site for the enjoyment of students and the community.
About Foothills School Division
Foothills School Division (FSD) serves the learning needs of more than 7,000 students located within the boundary of the Municipal District of Foothills. Located on the City of Calgary's southern border, the District covers an area of approximately 3550 square kilometres encompassing the Towns of Okotoks, High River, Turner Valley and Black Diamond, plus the communities served by our Blackie, Cayley, Heritage Heights, Longview, Millarville and Red Deer Lake schools. Governed by a publicly-elected Board of Trustees, the system employs approximately 750 teachers and support staff. The Division operates 18 public schools, three Hutterite Colony schools, one residential program and four Alternative schools.
At FSD, we strive to improve learning for all students by developing healthy relationships within an intellectually engaging environment. Our students consistently achieve outstanding results in all areas of education. Academics, arts and athletics, together with career and technology programs, are viewed as equally important contributors to the development of our students. FSD also celebrates our country's cultural diversity through full French Immersion and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Our employees engage in ongoing professional development focusing on innovative education practices to improve teaching and learning. We are committed to the principles of inclusiveness, equity, programming that meets our students individual needs, parental involvement and lifelong learning. For more information please visit www.fsd38.ab.ca.

Chinook Concert Band Festival 2011

Over a thousand area student musicians will get a chance to work with one of the best in music education this month.
Clinton Marshall, an award-winning music director, consultant and guest conductor, has been invited to be the clinician and adjudicator for this year's Chinook Concert Band Festival.
“[Marshall] is a very sincere person”, said festival coordinator Tom Taylor of Okotoks. “He is one of the best guest conductors I have ever experienced.”
Beginning on October 18th, Marshall will visit individual high schools in the area in a clinic setting, ranging from three-hour clinics to full-day sessions with students.
On October 26th and 27th, Marshall moves into the adjudicated festival format at Notre Dame Collegiate to work with area junior high schools.
In all, Marshall will work with 16 different schools; three in the Calgary Board of Education, eight in the Foothills School Division, four from Christ the Redeemer Catholic School Division, and one private school, a total of over 1000 students.
Marshall's expertise is in high demand across Canada and the United States, so scheduling him for nearly two full weeks was a tall order for Taylor.
Taylor found it necessary to book Marshall early, as he is already booked well into March of 2012.
Traditionally, the Chinook Concert Band Festival has only been accessible by schools in the Foothills and Christ the Redeemer School Divisions south of Calgary. However, with the expertise coming in this year, Taylor opened the possibility up to city schools as well.
Joel Windsor, director at Notre Dame Collegiate in High River and host of the adjudicated portion of the festival, said he's excited for the opportunity on behalf of his students.
“The directors from our divisions have been working together for years for our two festivals,” said Windsor, referring also to a jazz festival in November. “It's great that [Taylor] has opened this opportunity up to the city schools as well.”
“It's always so the students can get the best learning experience possible.”
Taylor has also designed professional development with Marshall for music directors in the two school divisions south of Calgary.
“We will learn a lot by spending a day with such an outstanding and experienced educator,” said Taylor, discussing the seminar that will take place on October 28th, Marshall's last day in Alberta.
Marshall has been given numerous awards for his outstanding career as a music educator, including a special proclamation from the Maryland State Senate for his accomplishments. He has been recognized by the National Band Director's Association and the American Schools Band Director's Association for his contributions to instrumental music. He will be flying out from his home in South Carolina to participate in this festival.

For more information about the festival, and Marshall's involvement, please visit: http://www.ndcfinearts.com/chinook.

From The Lions Den ~ Looking Ahead to the Festive Season

Submitted by Lion Lona Lineham
I just returned from a month-long holiday in Europe and was expecting to return home to snow ---- what a pleasant surprise this weather has been.
The Black Diamond Campground was suppose to close down on October 1st but there were so many people who did not want to leave until after the Thanksgiving long week-end and many bookings for that week-end, our attendants decided to extend the closing until October 15th. I believe we had a full house over the week-end.
Turner Valley is having their "Family New Year’s Eve Party" again this year. There will be skating, face-painting, music, bon fire, free hot dogs and hot chocolate and wonderful fire works about 9:00pm. This evening is like an old fashion New Year’s with family and friends. The Foothills Lions gave the town $1,500 to purchase the fire-works.
More about that time of year------ Black Diamond has it's "Christmas Light-up" each year with Santa Clause arriving and giving out gifts. The Foothills Lions donated $1,000 to help with that project and the Lions will also bring Santa in that night.
The weather is nice -- where are all the Bingo players? The next Bingo will be held on Friday, October 28th at 6:30 pm.


The Foothills Lions Club

“Serving Our Community”

Legion Leanings

It is that time in our year when the Legion kicks into a higher gear as we undertake our most important mission: that of raising the funds we require to look after our needy veterans and their descendants.
Our Poppy Distribution Campaign follows an orderly and prescribed routine. Wreaths are distributed to those commercial outlets who wish to display them. Following the presentation of the first Poppy to our Governor General in Ottawa on Wednesday, 26th October and Provincially to the Lieutenant Governor in the morning of Thursday the 28th we will present Poppies to our local Civic Leaders at the Cenotaph at 1 pm. Mayors from Black Diamond, Turner Valley, Longview and Okotoks have been invited along with our local MD Councillor and the majority have indicated that they or a representative will attend.
Poppies will be available to the general public from Friday, October 28 until Thursday November 10th. They will also be available at the various ceremonies on Remembrance Day. Trays can be found during that time in many of the smaller stores in the region, and Legion Members will be out in the larger stores and other locations. It should be noted that Poppies are to be worn on the left side above the heart and should be taken off after noon on November 11th. A very meaningful way to do this would be to place them at a cenotaph or on the grave of a deceased veteran.
Many people continue to ask “how much?” The answer is always the same. They are not for sale. We distribute these symbols of sacrifice and hope and in return we ask only that you make an affordable donation to the Poppy Fund. For significantly larger donations, made at the Legion, we can offer Tax Certificates.
Ceremonies will be held at various locations in the region, and we urge everyone to take part. Our Legion will hold its ceremony in the Oilfields High School in Black Diamond. The Colour Party will march the colours on at 10:30 am.
Many of us will be attending and often speaking at the twenty-two schools in our area as they pay tribute to our fallen comrades. The students and staff go to great lengths to honour our veterans and I personally look forward to them. These ceremonies are always a great occasions for us. The productions rarely fail to impress this retired principal.
In other activities, the entertainment committee has once again produced a wonderful “Spook House” for the children's Hallowe'en Party being held on October 29th from 1 pm to 3 pm. There will be games, hot-dogs and candy in addition to the ghosts and goblins. This Spook House is open to the general public from October 28 to 31 for a donation of $2. It is jointly sponsored by the Legion and the Foothills Lions' Club.
On November 5th our Ladies' Auxiliary will be holding their annual Shopping Spree and Bake Sale from 9 am to 2:30 pm. There will be a variety of wares available. Come out and support the LA. You could buy some great Christmas Gifts.
The details of our new and much expanded Student Bursary Programme have been finalised and adopted by the membership. We will present these at the three High Schools in the area shortly after November 11th . We look forward to working with the schools as we seek qualified students for these trust funds.
Finally, a reminder about the ongoing “Early Bird” campaign for the 2012 membership renewals; it runs to November 30th, and all who pay before that time will be entered for the draw in which six members will have the option of a refund of their dues or the pre-payment of their 2013 membership.

Serving our Veterans, Seniors, Youth and the Community.
Comrade Malcolm Hughes.

Personal Protection ~ HISTORY OF KOTO RYU Tiger knocking down school

It is thought that the Koto Ryu came from China via Korea, brought by Chan Busho, a Chinese warrior. You will notice that the first listed Soke's of Koto Ryu are also the Sokes of Gyokkyo Ryu. There are many similarities between the 2 schools.
Some of the differences between Koto Ryu and Gyokko Ryu are as follows:
The Koto Ryu is based on koppojutsu (bone attacking blocks) techniques, where Gyokko Ryu is based on koshijutsu (muscle/organ attacks). Directionally speaking the Koto Ryu is straighter in and the Gyokko Ryu revolves more on a circular basis (either in yourself or in your opponent when taking their balance).
The Koto Ryu techniques use short distancing between the two opponents, the Gyokko Ryu uses greater distance. The Koto Ryu techniques are shorter, quick and straight to the point; the Gyokko Ryu has longer more complicated techniques, and the techniques have more movement. The Koto Ryu concentrates more on striking and the Gyokko Ryu more on locks and throws. If both schools are studied completely, the student will know all forms of fighting, including distance, striking, throws and locks. Both schools compliment each other and to study only one is to know only half of one of the two schools.
The name of the school, 'Tiger Knocking Down', refers to knocking down the tiger with the tips of the fingers (the Chuden Kata techniques sometimes start this way).
Attacks to the face, in addition to metsubushi, are common in the techniques of the school.
The Koto Ryu is broken down into five levels wich are as follows:
1. KURAI DORI (Five Kamae)
2. SHODEN NO KATA (Eighteen Techniques)
3. CHUDEN NO KATA (Twelve Techniques)
4. OKUDEN NO KATA (Twelve Techniques)
Okuden, and Hekito are the highest levels of training with the school and contain the secret teachings. The Hekito is unarmed combat against sword, but a skilled member of the school can also do the Hekito with sword against sword.
The Bujinkan Dojo video Koto Ryu Koppojutsu by Soke Hatsumi shows three makimono (scrolls). Two of them have the name of the scroll partially clear and listed as such.:
1. Koto Ryu Koppojutsu…...
2. Koppojutsu…..
....the rest is unclear.
Typical movement within the Koto Ryu is:
Yoko Aruki (cross stepping) and Toki (stamping on toes).
Short distancing and striking hard.
A saying in the Koto Ryu is, "The eyes are everything".
Always making the eyes appear blank, so that no telepathic movement can be detected by the opponent.
Looking at the eyebrows of the opponent rather than their eyes.
The Koto Ryu has a unique form of Kenjutsu (Swordsmanship).
The Koto Ryu also contains kuji prayer forms and they are called Sanpo Gassho (3 treasures). These same kuji also appear in the Gyokko Ryu. They are listed as the Gassho Kuji Kiri (nine symbol slashes prayers).
"Sanpo Gassho"
1. Kongo - Cloud prayer
2. Suirin - Water ring prayer
3. Kaku Gassho - Fire and winds prayer

Real Estate Round Up

Did You Know That.....

The Honourable Ted Menzies, Minister of State (Finance), announced that the Government of Canada will contribute up to $9.95 million through the P3 Canada Fund towards the Evan-Thomas Water and Wastewater Treatment Facility project in Kananaskis Country, Alberta. Public-private partnerships are increasingly becoming an innovative solution to delivering the public infrastructure Canadians need in a way that represents the best value for taxpayers. This partnership will deliver a long-term, sustainable approach to water and wastewater management in the Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area that is environmentally sustainable and safe to all surrounding communities. Once selected, the private sector partner will design, construct and provide partial financing for the Evan-Thomas Water and Wastewater Treatment Facility project. The partner will also be responsible for operations and maintenance of the new water treatment plant, the new wastewater treatment plant and the water storage and distribution systems for 10 years after construction is completed. Ownership of the facility will rest with the Alberta government. For more information: http://www.fin.gc.ca/n11/11-079-eng.asp

Did You Know is brought to you
by Ted Menzies, M.P. Macleod Parliamentary
Secretary to the Minister of Finance.

Div. 4 News from Councillor Suzanne Oel

Just a Few of the Many
Information from Alberta Transportation on Highway 22, from 22X to Bragg Creek: work should be underway on overlay repairs.
Meeting with Superintendent Randy McGuiness – RCMP K Division & Sgt. Jim Ross – Turner Valley RCMP detachment (with representatives of M.D. Foothills, Turner Valley, Black Diamond, Longview): New focus – staffing front line police positions. We have been requesting this for awhile and will continue. We are hoping to increase staff in this area
Work is continuing on the oversight committee to improve our Ambulance Dispatch (comprised of representatives from AHS, FRESC, Calgary dispatch PSC, M.D. Foothills, and Alberta Health & Wellness.) This committee was created as a result of concerns raised by us on the amalgamation of our ambulance dispatch to Calgary. This partnership is bringing all the service providers together and providing an opportunity for teamwork, personalizing the situation and resolving issues.
Enjoy this beautiful Fall!
Suzanne.

More updates are included in our e-edition at: www.gatewaygazette.ca

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From My Bookshelf....by Lynn Willoughby

The Matter With Morris ~ David Bergen
This is a heartbreaking novel in many ways. Morris, raised in a Mennonite home, is a pacifist, but in the heat of argument he dares his son to join the army. Twenty year old Martin does just that, then is tragically killed in Afghanistan, by friendly fire. Morris must face his grieving wife and daughters, but mostly himself.
He leaves his wife and home, moves into a spartan apartment, quits his job and spends his days reading Plato, Kierkegaard, Socrates, Cicero, Dante, Boehme, Shakespeare and other great thinkers, hoping to find salvation. But the answers to what ails us, to life's big questions - are just not that easy to find. Once, grasping for an answer "...he felt a moment of contentment. I am on the earth for no reason other than to be Morris Shutt."
As Morris goes ever further off the rails - cashing in his life savings and buying a safe to keep his cash in his apartment, meeting strange women, writing wild, incendiary letters - one to the Canadian Prime Minister, ending up with a gun, spying on a dinner party held by old friends, where he is discovered after being attacked by a dog - we wonder how it will all end.
For all its darkness, this novel about mourning remains an optimistic book. The contrary needs of friends, colleagues, lovers and family unite a parade of interesting characters all on the journey to find answers to the human dilemma. And what that answer is, for Morris, is amazing and totally surprising.
This is not an easy read. It is a complex, intelligent and very moving story of male mid-life crisis. Sometimes I need a book like this to push me to do some introspection of my own.

• The Retreat
• The Time in Between

My Dear I Wanted to Tell You ~ Louisa Young
The horrors of WW I trenches, hospitals and those left behind were so vivid in this novel, it was often necessary for me to put it down and regroup. Never have I read descriptions like this.
Riley Purefoy's childhood and adolescence was unusual, to say the least. From a poor, working class family in London, he is taken under the wing of an artist, ends up living in his house and thereby crossing paths with Nadine, one of the heroines in this story. Nadine's father is the conductor of the London Symphony, so these two young people should never have met. But as their friendship deepens and they fall in love, Riley feels the only way he can leave Nadine, as her family wishes, is to enlist.
While Riley Purefoy and Peter Locke fight for their country, their survival and their sanity in the trenches of Flanders, Nadine, Julia - Peter's wife and Rose Locke - must deal with experiences at home that will shape future generations - all of us who grew up in the twentieth century.
The reading in this novel regarding the pioneering of plastic surgery and how it developed from necessity in this war was fascinating, yet nauseating. The artist in the book, Henry Tonk who redrew shattered faces, and the surgeon who rebuilt them, Major Gillies were taken straight from the history books.
The black humour used by patients to hang on to their sanity, or as it exhibits insanity, is especially moving. The doctors and the nurses who worked under such abominable conditions, the rain, the mud and the blood, with few supplies and less sleep are truly amazing! Never have I read such graphic words regarding Ypres, the Somme, Amiens, Passchendale. And yet humanity and kindness are not absent.
This is one story that will probably never leave me. We all have ancestors who fought these battles or nursed in the stench or who tried to help rebuild shattered bodies and lives. Because of this connection this book becomes very personal.

• Baby Love
• A Great Task of Happiness

…..and others, including children's books.

Who Knew?
The term "plastic" surgery denotes sculpting, from the Greek word "pastike" - the art of modeling malleable flesh. Reconstructive techniques were being carried out in India as early as 800 BC.

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Gardens Galore: Fall Colours ~ By Karen Brewka

All the brilliant colours in our landscapes are especially noticeable this year. Our long, warm fall is really giving us a show. We can take note of what catches our eye and look for these plants in the nursery to include them in our own landscapes. Much has been said about the beautiful larches in the mountains. Larches are deciduous conifers. They lose their needles in the fall (deciduous) and they produce cones (conifer). There are two kinds of larches we can use in our landscapes, the native larch (Larix laricina) and the Siberian larch (Larix siberica). The Siberian larch is the best for the landscape but it needs at least 15 to 20 feet of ground space. Schubert Chokecherries (Prunus virginiana 'Schubert) with their reddish purple leaves are real showy in the fall, particularly with a background of yellow poplars. We can't get the red of the eastern maples. The silver and sugar maples are barely hardy here but we can get a bit of red with Amur maples (Acer tataricum) or Mountain maples (Acer spicatum). These are much smaller trees but very useful, especially in a smaller yard. The colourful fruit of ornamental crabs (Malus spp) is showing nicely this fall. Mountain Ash (Sorbus spp) is another small tree that is great in the fall, especially with their clusters of orange berries.
We can get great pops of fall colour with shrubs. Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster) is one of my favourites. They give us a mosaic of red, orange and yellow leaves, depending on how much sun they get. Pincherry (Prunus pennsylvanica), another favorite, is a native shrub with edible fruit (like saskatoons and chokecherries). The flashes of magenta that you see at the edge of the woods are probably pincherries. Now on the market is a tree form of pincherry that would be great in a small yard. Highbush and lowbush cranberry (Viburnum spp) can also give us great red fall colour. They might need to be protected from wind, especially when young. Barberries (Berberis) are showing very well this fall with their purplish burgundy leaves. They are very effective when mass planted. Dogwood leaves bring us a coral red colour and also provide winter colour with their red stems (Red Osier Dogwood) (Cornus stolonifera) and yellow stems (Yellow twig dogwood) (Cornus sericea 'Flaviramea').
Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), while a bit too attractive to bugs in the summer, really shows up in the fall with deep red foliage. This vine is vigorous and can creep up a very tall brick wall or chimney in no time.
When we see something that attracts our attention in the landscape, we can find out what it is by looking in plant books in the library or on the internet and seeing if it would fit in our own landscapes, helping to brighten up all of our seasons.
The Valley Neighbours Garden Club welcomes new members. For information call Bea at 403–933–7131. The Horticultural Club meets every second Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm. For information call Sheila at 403–931–3989.

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Household Hints By Rosemary ~ Shadowboxes

Still on framing projects and one of the nicest I can think of is to copy an idea from a friend of mine who is a very good scrapbook maker. When her granddaughter was born she made a memory shadowbox for the baby's room.
Because I like simple, easy and quick crafts this one really caught my attention. However, it takes a bit of time to collect the bits and pieces that make the project worthwhile. The items to collect are, the birth announcement from the newspaper, the baby's hospital bracelet, the mother's too, if you wish, congratulations cards from grandparents or other close family/friends. Baby's first picture is a must, perhaps a pair of booties or a baby bonnet and a copy of the “It's a girl/boy” card sent out with the birth details such as day, time and weight. You may also want to include one or two pressed flowers from well-wisher bouquets, but I wouldn't recommend it as they will eventually discolour or break up.
The shadowbox I saw had the baby's name in small wooden letters painted and glued to the top of the frame, but you could also put it inside above the display depending on how much room you have.
On a pink background, you could also use yellow, or green, each item was outlined with either lace or a small paper frame, decorations such as little dresses, tiara's, dolls and doll carriages were scattered around the open areas. Although this is a form of scrapbooking, it's easy to find the decorations to make a pretty design.
For a little boy's box, decorate with baseball gloves, hockey sticks, soccer balls or puppies, on blue, or green. Squares cut from old jeans are a good background for items, just make a cut for each corner of the picture or announcement and tuck it in.
As much as I hate the idea of cutting up a book, fairy tale books are available at second hand book stores with some lovely illustrations. Humpty Dumpty and little Miss Muffet cutouts are a nice idea too. If there is leftover fabric or wallpaper from the baby's first room this can also be used as a background or decoration.
Taking it further, it's also a nice idea to do a Christmas frame, from their first visit to Santa, to the most recent.
Anything that's not replaceable should not be glued down, for instance in the case of a hospital bracelet or baby booties, it's better to use a pin. Have a copy made of the baby's first picture and save the original in a safe place. Try in all cases to use acid free paper.
Regardless of how old the “baby” is, it's still a very nice idea, and would even be appreciated by an older child. The children in our family like to look at photo albums of themselves when they were little and hear stories about what their favourite toys, bedtime stories and games were so a shadowbox, of their arrival and how we celebrated it, is a nice souvenir.

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The Oral Health Connection: Do I Have Bad Breath? By Penny Judson-Benny ~ Registered Dental Hygienist

Bad breath or 'halitosis' has a very unpleasant odor. This odor can strike periodically or can be persistent, depending on the cause. Millions of bacteria live in the mouth and in most cases, is the primary cause of bad breath. The mouth's warm, moist conditions make an ideal environment for these bacteria to grow.
Some types of bad breath, such as 'morning mouth' are considered to be fairly normal, and they usually are not health concerns. 'Morning mouth' occurs because the saliva that regularly washes away decaying food and odors during the daytime, diminishes at night while you sleep. Your mouth becomes dry and dead cells adhere to your tongue and to the inside of your cheeks. Bacteria use these cells for food and expel compounds that have a foul odor.
In addition, bad breath can be caused by the following:
*Poor dental hygiene – infrequent or improper brushing and flossing can leave food particles to decay inside the mouth
*Infections in the mouth – Periodontal (gum) disease
*Respiratory tract infections – Throat infections, sinus infections and lung infections
*External agents – garlic, onions, coffee, cigarette smoking and chewing tobacco
*Dry mouth (xerostomia) – This can be caused by salivary gland problems, medications or by 'mouth breathing'
*Systemic Illnesses – Diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, sinus disease, reflux disease and others
*Psychiatric Illness – Some people may perceive that they have bad breath, but it is not noticed by oral-health care professionals or others. This is referred to as 'pseudohalitosis'
A person may not always know that he/she has bad breath. This phenomenon is because odor-detecting cells in the nose eventually become accustomed to the constant flow of bad smells from the mouth. Others may notice and react by recoiling as you speak.
Other associated symptoms depend on the underlying cause of bad breath:
*Poor dental hygiene – Teeth are coated with plaque, food trapped between teeth, pale or swollen gums
*Infections in the mouth – Gums may be red, swollen and bleed easily, especially after brushing and flossing; pus may drain from between teeth; a pocket of pus (abscess) at the base of the tooth; loose teeth or the change in 'fit' of the denture; painful, open sores on the tongue or gums
*Respiratory tract infections - Cigarette stains on fingers and teeth, a uniform yellow 'coffee stain' on teeth
*Dry Mouth – Difficulty swallowing dry foods, difficulty speaking for a prolonged period of time because of mouth dryness, a burning sensation in the mouth, an unusually high number of dental caries, dry eyes (in Sjogren's syndrome)
*Systemic illnesses – Symptoms of diabetes, lung disease, kidney or liver disease
A health professional may notice the patient's bad breath while the patient is discussing his/her medical history and symptoms. In some cases, a likely cause may be determined. A 'fruity' breath can be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes. A urine-like smell, especially in a person who is at high risk for kidney disease, can sometimes indicate kidney failure. The medical history may sometimes reveal the source of halitosis. Certain medical conditions as well as medications that cause dry mouth may be present. It is important for your health professional to know your personal habits such as diet, whether you have a smoking or chewing tobacco habit.
Your oral health professional will examine your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. A head and neck exam, as well as breathing habits will be evaluated.
Halitosis that is caused by poor oral health can be reduced by using a proper homecare regimen. Brushing and flossing daily is critical. Tongue brushing is also very important as there is a thick film of bacteria present on the surface where the papilla and taste buds are. Periodontal disease and abscesses usually respond quickly to proper dental treatment. Bad breath resulting from chronic sinusitis may be a recurring problem, especially if it is caused by a structural abnormality.
Halitosis caused by a systemic illness may be a long term problem that can often be controlled by proper medical care.
Daily prevention caused by dental problems can easily control bad breath:
*Brush and floss the teeth and gums after meals and before bed
*Brush the tongue daily, especially before bed
*Clean dentures and oral appliances daily
*Use and antiseptic mouth rinse if needed, but this does not replace a good brushing and flossing regimen
*Get regular teeth cleaning and periodontal care
*Drink plenty of water during the day
*Chew sugar free gum
*Eat raw vegetables such as celery and carrots to help reduce plaque formation.

'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.

C. Ian McLaren News ~ Terry Fox

C. Ian McLaren had another great Terry Fox Event on September 29th. Students collected pledges from their families and friends. We like to call ourselves the small school with a big heart as once again the students raised an incredible amount of money for the Terry Fox Foundation. We raised over $4000! Yes, that's right. 177 kids raised that amount. There was a friendly competition and the class that raised the most money got a pizza party. The class that won was Mrs. McEwen's. There was also a competition for the student who raised the most money to be the principal for the day. The student who raised the most money was Jacob in Grade 4. So on October 5th, he got to be the principal. He said the best part of the day was paperwork (he got to make paper airplanes) and the hardest part was helping kids solve problems. Congratulations to Jacob and the students of CIM. We are very proud of them.

Halloween Happenings

Faith Forum ~ The Author of Life By Gloria Wessner

In order to be a good writer, one needs to have original ideas – the designer or mastermind of a good story or article. The author needs to know how to keep a good storyline going and how to end the story well. A story that finishes well leaves a reader with a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. Only the author knows the planning and the full story from beginning to end.
One can only imagine that to be the author of life, that individual would have to be not only original, but a perfect genius at designing all the intricacies and systems of life that interweave in and around each other. The only being who would be capable of accomplishing such a feat is God. He planned all of life from start to finish:
“For the Lord is God, and he created the heavens and earth and put everything in place. He made the world to be lived in, not to be a place of empty chaos. “I am the Lord,” he says, “and there is no other.” (Isaiah 45:18 NLT)
His design was perfect. He even designed and formed man in his own image. One of the greatest gifts he gave to mankind was that of free choice. He designed people so they could either choose to live for Him or choose to live for themselves. We know from the account in God's word of the story of Adam and Eve and how they chose to disobey God and that it brought the condition of wickedness (or sin as God's word calls it) upon the world. God not only planned and created the world; but when mankind sinned, he also had a plan in place to provide a way for man (now in his sinful state) to receive new life so that the broken relationship that happened when wickedness entered the world would not only be repaired, but fully restored.
“But there is a great difference between Adam's sin and God's gracious gift. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought death to many. But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:15 NLT)
This is how God made that way work:
“But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him … We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned (done wrongdoings); we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus.” (Romans 3:21-26 NLT parenthesis mine).
So God not only created life and us in the first place, He also provided a way (as shown in the above piece) to repair that broken relationship. This allows us to finish life well if we choose to live for Him and not for ourselves, too. During this time of Thanksgiving, it is something to be thankful for.
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 KJV)
“And he also said, 'It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life.” (Revelation 21:6 NLT)
Readers are invited to write Gloria at: gloriawes@hotmail.com.

Now Booking ~ Holiday Gift Guide

Views on Vision By Dr. Charles A. Boulet ~ Dyslexia? Really? The role of eye movement in reading.

On a blank piece of paper place an X and O spaced 5 to 6 inches apart, keeping the letters about a half inch tall.

Try this with a small group of people: From about 40 cm, stare at the 'X' on the left, now switch to the 'O' on the right. Jump back and forth between the two. Have a partner count off 10 seconds - how many jumps can you make in 10 seconds? Watch your partner's eyes as he does the same. Count the number of jumps your partner can make. Repeat the exercise, but rather than counting how many jumps made, pay attention to where the eyes are looking - do they jump right to the targets, or is there some 'correction' required to finally fixate on the target?
Things to think about: Are you able to make the same number of 'jumps' as your partner? Is your partner able to land squarely on the targets, or do they need to make small adjustments to find the target? Is there any head movement or jaw movement? Consider using a video camera and zooming in on the eyes as they do this. Compare how you do to how your partners do.
Try this with children. Watch for accuracy in targeting, but also jaw movement or head movement. A child who reflexively moves the head or jaw to direct the eyes (as opposed to just moving the eyes) is likely to have trouble with fine motor skills needed for reading. If they do move the head or jaw to direct the eyes, stop the test and ask them to simply move their eyes to do the task - typically this is much more difficult.
This activity is a very rough assessment of jump eye movements (technically called 'saccades' pronounced 'sack-adds' or 'sack-aids'). Accurate and quick saccades are one of the cornerstone skills required for effortless reading. Slow or poorly coordinated saccades result in labored reading and can cause letters and words to be jumbled in the mind, or appearing out of proper sequence. Reading 'C - A - T' for example could appear as 'T - A - C' if the 'T' is seen first because of inaccuracies in targetting.
Clinical experience makes it trivial for developmental optometrists to spot trouble with eye movements, but it is often hard to see for teachers and parents. In a comprehensive assessment of visual function, saccades are necessarily one of the elements measured. An advanced measuring device called the 'Visagraph' (available at our clinic) makes very detailed measurements of some of the more important eye movement and coordination skills, namely saccades and fixation (the ability to simply stare at something with no involuntary eye movements.)
Trouble with jump eye movements is a common reason why children who can see well still have trouble with reading and mixing words up. Often enough, this is taken as 'dyslexia' or some other reading or learning problem. Thankfully, this is an issue that is fairly easy to remediate with the appropriate training. For more information, or to have you or your children assessed for potential eye movement trouble, feel free to call our clinic to set an appointment. This is especially important for anyone who struggles with reading and learning, and for children in early elementary.


Dr. Boulet is a former teacher and now operates Diamond Valley Vision Care in Black Diamond where he continues to work with children with learning difficulties. Call 403-933-5552.
www.dvvc.ca and www.LearningManagement.ca

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The Life of An Artist Reconnecting With Herself

Here we are in the autumn season, watching the branches sharing their leaves with the earth, to allow for new growth in the spring.
Even though I usually flourish with a good strong routine, I tend to become obsessed with maintaining it, consequently forgetting that change is good. Change is natural and healthy for the mind. Especially a mind like mine! Since my three full time private lesson students moved away and started university, I’ve been feeling lost. And as it happens, I’m actually involved in three art exhibits this fall! In fact, starting in less than two weeks, I’ll have twenty pieces on display in Okotoks. And in November, another four. And as of today, I have internet access inside my studio! Woo hoo!
Lately I’ve been actively reconnecting with my own nature and enjoying the changes to my routine. So, my meditation time has taken up more of each day. This is good news. It keeps me grounded and focused. I believe that all artists should remember to take time out for themselves and just be still. It can get very frustrating and disappointing for an artist to put so much of her/himself into a work of art, only to have it passed by completely at the exhibit. We can get so involved with our obligations and promises that it is far too easy to lose focus on developing our own work. But we must remember that the work is meant to be seen, not hidden in a basement (or in our thoughts for that matter)! So the importance is not necessarily that it sells, it is that it has been shared. By sharing the wealth of creative expression, we will connect with others. And this is what artists strive for.

~Love and light from The Real RobiN Thibodeau
allseasonchick@gmail.com

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It’s Flu Time

Alberta is launching its annual influenza immunization program on October 17th.
The influenza vaccine will be made available, free of charge, to all Albertans six months of age and older, through dedicated influenza immunization clinics, as well as some pharmacist and physician offices.
“As the single most effective means of protecting oneself from influenza infection and illness, annual immunization is an important part of every Albertans’ fall routine, every year,” says Dr. Gerry Predy, Senior Medical Officer of Health, Alberta Health Services. “We call it an annual immunization for a reason: to maintain your immunity, and be protected for the season ahead, you need to get immunized every year.”
Dr. Predy also reminds Albertans that by making immunization an annual event, they’re not only protecting themselves, they’re protecting those around them.
“Immunization limits the spread of illness,” says Dr. Predy. “The more people who protect themselves by getting their annual influenza immunization, the less transmission of illness we see in our communities.”
Albertans can find more information, including complete influenza immunization clinic schedules, online at:
www.albertahealthservices.ca, or by calling Health Link Alberta, toll-free at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).

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Travel Tracks by Dave Heron ~ GIMME A PIZZA

I remember a pizza restaurant years back that had a reputation for making, serving and selling, some of the finest pizza in Eastern Canada.
The place was full 7 days a week, so much so that their biggest repair issue was having to replace the front door on an annual basis as a result of excessive use.
They made money hand over fist.
So much so they decided to expand.
They opened a second outlet a couple of miles from their prime location.
Now instead of 1 outlet covering a market territory of say 20 square miles - there were 2.
At pretty much twice the cost.
With pretty much the same number of clients.
Something had to be done.
Their marketing guru concluded if they couldn't increase the revenue, they'd decrease the cost.
The 1st thing to go was the premium cheese - there was a 2nd rate product available at half the cost.
Retained earnings increased and the guru, fresh off a victory, decided to take it a step further by reducing the size of the pizza shell by 1 inch.
After a month, no-one had commented so the fresh basil was the next ingredient to get the axe.
They were on a roll.
Where product cost had originally been 65% of the selling price, it was now down to 40%.
By watering down the tomato sauce, another 10% cost saving was achieved.
Unfortunately, they'd also lost 20% of their clients who had gone over to a competitor who was using something other than road kill for the toppings.
Marketing said he had a fix in the wings.
"We'll get rid of our waiters, clients can carry their own pizza home and we'll cut the price to get customers back through the door"
To get the word out, they developed a terrific web-site that invited clients to order on-line at rock bottom prices.
The pictures looked terrific.
The prices beat the nearest competitor by 10%.
Unfortunately , a month into the new marketing strategy, customers came to the realization that six bucks for a pizza made out of cardboard and tomato sauce-while admittedly cheap - was such a lousy product it didn't deserve their support.
Predictably, what was once a great pizzeria, closed their doors.
Rumor has it, the management team went out and started an airline.
And this story is going where you ask?
American Airlines is the latest in a string of carriers to be contemplating a reorganization under a protection from creditors arrangement.
Blaming high labor costs, unions, fuel costs and a market downturn, management gurus at American are scrambling to explain to creditors why the stock at American plummeted over 40% on October 3rd on whispers of a bankruptcy filing.
"We're fine - we've got $318 Million in cash reserves and another $4.8 Billion in short term investments."
Hopefully that 4.8 isn't invested in themselves.
Not to mention the short term liabilities of $9.7 Billion they're currently saddled with.
As with other legacy airlines, American has eroded the quality of their product over the past 10 years to the point where not only is the general public saying -"No" but - "Hell No".
Yes you can find some ridiculously low prices on some of their flights in the US - often to the initial envy of Canadian flyers.
Plus charges for everything from bringing your wallet on board the aircraft to asking their staff a question, i.e, "why are we 4 hours late?" - "Because we're waiting for pizza - that'll be $20".
Everybody loves a bargain.
Not everyone considers the lowest price to be a bargain.
Except maybe the marketing guru over at the airline who couldn't be reached for comment.
He was out picking up pizza at the recycling center.



Adios until next time
Dave Heron

Dave Heron is the owner and operator of: Pace Setter Travel & Tours (1995) Inc; P.O. Box 612, 70 McRae Street, Okotoks.
Tel: 403.938.5454
Toll Free: 1.800.206.7223.
Fax: 403.938.5568
Email: pacesetter@nucleus.com

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Turner Valley School News

A Word from Principal Rob Bennington
What wonderful weather we have had for the start of another school year. It was great to see all the students returning to school. The school is looking awesome. We are off to a very smooth start and looking forward to an excellent school year filled with fun, friendship and above all learning. A special welcome to our new students and their families. We are pleased to have Patricia Klafki and Chelsea McNutt joining our Turner Valley team this year.
Safety Patrol
Once again students from the Grade 6 class will be doing the morning and after-school safety patrol to monitor the crosswalk area in front of the school. We had a representative from the Alberta Motor Association come to the school in September to teach the Grade 6 class how to properly conduct the Safety Patrol. Please drive extra carefully through this area or when coming to pick up your children.
Welcome New Staff
My name is Patricia Klafki and I am the new Grade 2 teacher. I have been teaching now for 14 years. I have taught Kindergarten to Grade 11 and have spent the last 9 years focused primarily on grades K-3. For the last three years, I taught Grade 1 and a Grade 1/2 spilt at McLaren in Black Diamond.
I was raised in BC and have my Bachelor's of Education from the University of Victoria. I have a specialization in Remedial Methodology which in plain terms is Learning Assistance. I have taught my whole career at small schools with 188 students being the largest school and 8 students (one-room school K-3 with myself and an Educational Assistant) being the smallest school. This is my first year at Turner Valley School teaching a straight Grade 2 and I am very excited to be here. Please drop by to say HELLO!
My name is Chelsea McNutt and I am the new Grade 5 teacher here at Turner Valley School! This is my first year of teaching, as I just recently graduated from the University of Lethbridge. I was born and raised in Lethbridge, but have done a great deal of traveling, including backpacking around Europe for three months. Although I have worked with all ages at elementary level over the past 7 years, including working as an EA for numerous years, I have to admit that grade 5 is by far my favourite. I am so, so excited to start this new school year with such a great bunch of students!!!
Library News:
Our school is having a Scholastic BOOK FAIR, October 21st - 31st. This Book Fair will be a truly spectacular opportunity for big-time book lovers to seek out great new books on mystery, adventure, sports, fun activities, science plus many, many more cool subjects. There will be a special Family Event on October 25th and 26th. If you bring your family you could win FREE BOOKS! An event NOT to be missed! Read to Grow! Read to Know! Read for Friendship, Family and Fun!. Read for Action, Drama and Adventure! Read for Magic, Myth and Mystery!
Thank You Costco
We have had a generous donation of 50 student backpacks from COSTCO CANADA INC. These backpacks have been made available for any of our students who need school supplies.

Our Vision
A community of lifelong learners prepared to succeed in the 21st Century through dynamic and engaging school experiences in a respectful and supportive environment