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Personal Protection ~ All You've Got is Your Health

How many times have you heard this? Probably multiple times, or some rendition of it. I used to hear it and think 1 or 2 things. First, "yeah I know, I'm healthy, if I wasn't a doctor would tell me so." The second thought I'd have would be, "well that's nice to say, but what does it mean and what do I do about it?"
Maybe you're like me and think you're healthy. I'm going to tell you a startling fact. You're probably not. What?! How can he say that?! He doesn't even know how I live?! You're right, I don't and I might be wrong. But I do know most of the readers of this article live a standard North American lifestyle. For the most part that includes consuming toxic, non-nutritious foods, surrounding ourselves with poisons and toxins, not sleeping enough or properly, consuming too much alcohol, unhealthy fats and sugars, not dealing with negative stress properly, being bombarded with negative self image media and not exercising enough or properly. Just because you're not "sick" yet doesn't mean you're healthy. In the last several months I've known a few people who thought they were healthy get diagnosed with several different serious diseases. All of them were as a result of lifestyle.
The good news is there's lots you can do to start living again! Below are my top suggestions for getting your health back. Christmas is one of the most stressful times of the year. We consume huge quantities of sugary foods and alcohol, are bombarded with negative stress and feel like we don't have enough time for ourselves. So this Holiday give yourself a gift, the gift of taking your health back. Remember this though, these suggestions won't work if you don't.
1. Make healthy food choices. Start reading the labels of what you're buying. If there's ingredients in the food that you don't know what they are, chances are you shouldn't be eating it.
2. Take a time out. Find a few moments here and there throughout the day to shut your eyes and take a deep breath. Tom Crum calls this "the centering breath." It only takes a couple seconds so stop making excuses why you can't find time to relax and make the whole world wait for you as you take your centering breath throughout the day.
3. Find time to exercise. I know you're busy and think you don't have time but you have to find 20 minutes 3 times per week minimum. If you don't you will be finding lots of time for hospital beds, doctor visits and medical treatments down the road.
4. Get to sleep. Go to bed with enough time allotted for a minimum 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. If you have trouble relaxing to sleep close your eyes and start breathing deep into your lower diaphragm. Don't even think about sleep, just start counting your breaths and let this deep breathing exercise do the rest.
The above suggestions are my Christmas gift to all of you. Following those 4 simple steps will make a massive difference in your life this Holiday season.
If you're interested in taking control of your own life again and beating lifestyle call us today at 403- 829-7897 or email info@ftsma.com to book a health and wellness consult.
Remember without your health there is no time for work, no time for family, no time for hobbies. You owe it to yourself and the people you love to take care of yourself. It's pretty hard to get to work when you're laid up in a hospital bed due to years of poor lifestyle decisions that you didn't even know you were making. In the end all you've got is your health.
Stay safe, be well.
Sensei Tom Gillis

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The Life of A Grateful Artist

Can you believe we're at the end of 2011? Can you believe that people actually believe that the world will 'end' a year from now? Honestly, when will our species learn to live and enjoy life right now and not because of, some possible catastrophic event? I put off retiring my Dodge for over a year for this practical reason: to avoid getting into debt. But to what risk? Aside from having no radio antennae, no glove compartment, no control over the heat blasting during the summer or the trunk mysteriously opening of its own volition, its latest trick was locking me out of it while I was nowhere near it… or as I would approach it. (Insert the Twilight Zone theme song here).
So, why do we all work so hard to capture that elusive creature known as money? To have what we really need or want right? As shocking as that may seem, that's what I've been doing. Gathering things I really need. In August I got my laptop and it has served me well. Then in October, I upgraded my website by purchasing my very own domain name:
www.robinlisathibodeau.com and then turned it into an e-commerce site so that I can eventually sell my artwork online.
And I figured I'd wait until the spring to replace my car. We artists like to make a good impression on galleries and patrons you know. But my Dodge had other plans. About 3 weeks ago, it decided to blow black smoke out of its exhaust pipe… and then crater. My mechanic had told me that it wasn't worth fixing, so I actually decided to buy a new car. GASP! I never thought of myself ever owning a new car before… but my Dad would've encouraged me to get one. In my cozy studio, I meditated on finding a car that best suited me, along with the help of honest and trustworthy car dealers. And between November 18th and November 29th, I test drove it, signed the papers, switched up my insurance and drove home in my new super-safe and 2008 Honda Civic LX. Weird how a car can make a person feel so good-despite the fact that it's a depreciating asset. I honestly can't wait to get out to those city galleries with it and maybe show off just a little bit?? I'm sure my Dad is smiling down at me that I'm finally in a safe car.

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

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Diamond Valley Starlight Celebration ~ a Family-friendly New Year's Eve

The Town of Turner Valley is once again hosting a free, fun, family-friendly evening to celebrate New Year's Eve. The fourth annual Diamond Valley Starlight Celebration kicks off in downtown Turner Valley at 5:00pm on December 31st and ends with fireworks at 8:00pm.
The evening's fabulous lineup has something of interest for all ages, from grandmas and grandpas to little britches. Complimentary hot chocolate and hot dogs will be served throughout the evening. Door prizes are in store for a few lucky participants, too.
“This is a great event for grandparents who are babysitting that night,” says Kelly Tuck, Turner Valley's Mayor. “It gives kids and their families a way to celebrate New Year's Eve at nighttime, yet it doesn't go too far past bedtime for our little ones,” she added.
Organizers remind residents to dress for the weather and wear a smile.

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Mayor Sharlene’s Christmas Greeting

So this is Christmas and what have we done? On behalf of Black Diamond staff and Council, we would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous and Healthy 2012.
Every time the “season” comes around, we sometimes get side tracked with the frantic shopping and the demands that the season puts upon us. But there is another part of Christmas, the supporting of community endeavours, the getting together with family, friends, neighbours and, most importantly, assisting others in need. This year, through the contribution of businesses and individuals, we were able to make a “community” donation to the Oilfields Food Bank, to assist our friends and neighbours with basic necessities, to give a hand up through the season and maybe even into 2012. Thank you to all!
Many of us talk about the Festive Season, or the Holiday Season; I personally celebrate Christmas, although there are many other festivities that are celebrated in our community. This time of year is a time of reflection, remembering what is really important. A time of coming together; to reflect on accomplishments and learning; a time to get to know your neighbour; to assist those in need and to grow together in our community.
May your stockings be full, not of iPods, tablets and smartphones, but of Love, Joy and Happiness- the thoughts of loved ones, getting together with family, friends and neighbours.
Merry Christmas and Seasons Greetings - may 2012 be prosperous and fun and remember my favourite quote: “Uncover the Gem, Discover Black Diamond!”
Merry Christmas, Mayor Sharlene Brown Town of Black Diamond

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Greetings from the Town of Turner Valley Council

The holiday season is a special time. It's a time to spend time with family and friends and to reflect on the past year. It is also a time to make plans for the coming year. As a community we've certainly got lots to look forward to.
Many of you will be happy to hear that the Town of Turner Valley Council is looking at developing its recreational facilities, including adding new ball diamonds and a Lions Club-sponsored water park to our community. Downtown redevelopment plans are in the works and Millennium Park designs and improvement concepts have been approved.
We continue to exchange ideas and perspectives with our surrounding communities, both formally and informally. This past year Council entered into two new partnerships with the M.D. of Foothills to save costs while securing the expertise we need to meet our growing community's challenges. Thanks to these agreements, we now welcome Leslie Fitzgerald as our new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and Michel Savard as our new Director of Public Works.
The towns of Turner Valley and Black Diamond, along with the Village of Longview and the Municipal District of Foothills, formed the Quad Regional Water Partnership in 2010. Its purpose is twofold: to develop a governance model around a regional water system; and to investigate the feasibility of securing and implementing a sustainable, safe and cost-effective drinking water system for the region. Work on the project is continuing and public open houses are expected in 2012.
Other accomplishments of your Council over the past year include developing a three-year business plan, updating our Municipal Development Plan to guide our community's future growth, celebrating the opening of the new Sheep River Library, sponsoring several community events, reviewing and revising bylaws and policies and even giving our Town office a much needed paint job.
For the coming year, Council promises to continue to provide the kind of strong leadership that will ensure all decisions are forward thinking and in the best interests of all Turner Valley residents and our beautiful community.
On behalf of Council, I extend sincerest thanks to all Town staff and volunteers. Your efforts have enriched our community greatly and your contributions and commitment are truly appreciated.
Best wishes to all, from the Town of Turner Valley Council and staff, for a holiday season filled with caring, compassion and hope.

Merry Christmas. Mayor Kelly Tuck Town of Turner Valley

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Mayor Ivor’s Christmas Message

On behalf of the Village of Longview Council, administration and staff, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all the compliments of the Xmas season and best wishes for good health and much happiness in 2012.
At this time of year our thoughts turn to those in our village who have lost loved ones during the current year. It was heart warming to see the community rally around these families in their time of need. The support displayed to others in Longview who required assistance throughout the year was greatly appreciated.
2011 was an extremely busy year in our village with numerous projects undertaken, many of those being implemented by our tremendous volunteer base from both within Longview and those in the surrounding area. We are blessed with a wealth of wonderful volunteers and to all of you we extend our deepest appreciation for all your hard work and dedication to move the Village of Longview ahead as a sustainable municipality. Initiatives including the skating rink upgrades, a new Children's playground and the first phase of the Memorial Gardens were all completed this year.
Volunteers provided a wonderful feast at our annual Xmas party and Santa brought many smiles to the faces of the children in attendance.
We are also thankful for other volunteer groups who are planning our Party at the Rink celebration to be held on 23rd December 2011.
So in closing please enjoy this special time of year with friends and family while sparing a moment to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and remembering those in the world who are not as fortunate as we are to live in this part of Canada.

Best wishes, Ivor McCorquindale Mayor The Village of Longview.

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The Birth of Jesus Shared By Gloria Wessner

“ At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He travelled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant.
And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.
The Shepherds and Angels
That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don't be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”
Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others — the armies of heaven — praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in highest heaven and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”
When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let's go to Bethlehem! Let's see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds' story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.” (Luke 2: 1-20 NLT)

Readers are welcome to email Gloria at: gloriawes@hotmail.com

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'Twas the night before Christmas,

when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney
with care,
In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums
danced in their heads.
And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just settled down for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted,
and called them by name!

"Now, Dasher! Now, Dancer!
Now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid! On, Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle,
mount to the sky.
So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
With the sleigh full of toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head
to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished
with ashes and soot.
A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler,
just opening his pack.

His eyes - how they twinkled!
His dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin
was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and a little round belly,
That shook when he laughed, like a
bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight
to his work,
And filled all the stockings,
then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,
“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

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A Timeless Classic Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus An Annual Tradition

By Francis P. Church, first published in The New York Sun in 1897. [See The People's Almanac, pp. 13589.]

Dear Editor
I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it's so.” Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?
Virginia O'Hanlon

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias.
There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The external light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.
Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.
You tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.
No Santa Claus! Thank God! He lives and lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Newsman Francis Pharcellus Church wrote The Sun's response to Virginia.

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Faith Forum ~ What About the Baby? By Gloria Wessner

Christmas is a word that conjures up warm fuzzy feelings for most people. So much of Christmas is about time spent with family, holiday songs, parties, the holiday shopping atmosphere, the presents, decorating, the wonderful meal and the warm fuzzies the holidays bring. These things are all great and make the Christmas holiday season special. When the season passes, many of us anticipate the January blues.
What about the baby that caused December 25th to become recognized as an event to celebrate his birthday? (Earliest celebrations of December 25th were pagan and not-so-nice in nature. Efforts by then known Christian leaders caused Christ's birthday to be said to have happened on that date – it's too long a story to include here.) For the most part the baby is left in the manger; resurrected in the same infant form a year later and every year thereafter; not having any particular relevance to our lives the rest of the year.
What if there is relevance to our lives about this baby? What if, in coming to earth in infant form, there was eternal significance wrapped up in those swaddling clothes and laying in a manger? Would I not be smart to investigate such a possibility?
Within the limits of space in this article I'd like to share with you a couple of thoughts about this baby.
Jesus Christ's birth was predicted about 700 years by the prophet Isaiah before he was actually born – and portrayed as a life-changing event.
“For a child is born to us,
a son is given to us.
The government will rest on his shoulders.
And he will be called:
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
His government and its peace will never end.
He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity.
The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies will make this happen!” (Isaiah 9:6, 7 NLT)
Then, between 700 and 800 years later, the apostle Matthew wrote these words in fulfilment of that prophecy.
“When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he left Judea and returned to Galilee. He went first to Nazareth, then left there and moved to Capernaum, beside the Sea of Galilee, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali. This fulfilled what God said through the prophet Isaiah:
“In the land of Zebulun and of Naphtali, beside the sea, beyond the Jordan River, in Galilee where so many Gentiles live, the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light. And for those who lived in the land where death casts its shadow, a light has shined.” Matthew 4:12 – 16 NLT (see Isaiah 9: 1, 2 NLT)
Jesus is that 'great light' – a bright beam showing us the way to Life and eternity with Him, just like that beam of light that came from that special star all those years ago that led the wise men to Jesus. By believing why that Baby came so long ago we know this: that when he grew up, his unselfish sacrifice to us was to die for our wrong doings and we are invited to respond to this gift by accepting his forgiveness. Then, as we live our life, we accept his Lordship in our lives each and every day and at the end of this life we have God's assurance that we will go to be with him forever.
God is offering you the greatest gift of all time in the form of his only beloved Son. He is not in the manger anymore, but lived to grow and be a man and willingly and knowingly gave his life for you. In rising from death, he conquered it and can offer you eternal life forever with Him.
What will you do with the Baby this Christmas?
Readers are invited to write me at: gloriawes@hotmail.com and I would be more than happy to visit with you or write with you.

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Gazette Colour Contest open to EVERYONE

Download printable versions of the colouring pictures for each category through our website.

http://gatewaygazette.ca/readers/funstuff.html

Chiro Clinic ~ Healthy Hints For The Holidays

Can you believe that the holidays are almost here? With the winter solstice arriving, we can finally turn our thoughts to longer daylight hours, holiday celebrations with family and friends and some much needed rest. With so much celebrating ahead, how can one maintain a healthy lifestyle over the holidays? Here are a few simple tips to stay happy and healthy over the Christmas and New Year's break:
1. Stay in your exercise routine during the holidays. Whether it is a short 20 minute run with bells on your shoes or an early morning yoga class, it all counts! At this time of year, exercise seems to be the first routine to get dropped amongst the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Try to stick with your exercise routine over the holidays and you will be amazed at how much better you feel. There is now plenty of scientific evidence supporting the benefits of regular exercise, including the fact that people who exercise regularly also receive regular “cues” from their body to eat a more healthy diet.
2. Be conscious of your consumption. For whatever the reason, we all tend to lose our common sense at this time of year and suddenly fall into the trap of believing that holiday treats are calorie-free! While there is no need to deny yourself some of Grandma's special shortbread or a glass of dressed up eggnog, just remember to pace yourself!! Before allowing all of those extra calories to add up to a new layer of winter fat, try to continue a healthy eating regime with the odd treat here and there. Opt for the fresh veggies and humus at parties, the lower calorie alcoholic drinks and fill up on the good food first. Healthy eating over the holidays will leave you feeling happy and refreshed, as opposed to sluggish and overweight. Be sure to stick to your regular vitamin and supplement regimes, including your intake of Vitamin D3 at this time of year.
3. Get some fresh air. We all tend to hibernate a little too much at this time of year, so break the trend and get outside! Dress for the weather and try something new, like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog-sledding, etc. The holidays are a great time to share in new activities with friends and family.
4. Get plenty of rest. Despite the parties and the late nights wrapping gifts, try to stay on track with your sleep. Most of us need a minimum of 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, with more required if our bodies are stressed. The occasional mid-morning cat nap can also prove exceptionally refreshing if you are feeling somewhat overwhelmed.
With just a little bit of effort and a pinch of common sense, this year's holidays can be the healthiest ever!
~ Dr. Natalie Carrington

We wish everyone a very happy and healthy holiday season!
~ Drs. Greg, Natalie, and Mike at the Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic


Dr. Greg Morris, Dr. Natalie Carrington and Dr. Mike Belding can all be contacted at the Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic, 403-933-3088.

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Happy Holidays from the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area By: Christina Keough

The Cross Conservation Area wishes you a Happy Holiday
And we hope that our paths have crossed in some way
Whether you have enjoyed a hike on the land
Or our education programs your mind did expand

A wildlife habitat 4,800 acres in size
The rolling foothills are a delight for the eyes
Cougar, deer, black bear and hummingbird
The Area's beauty cannot be captured by word

An exciting year 2011 has been for us here
A new CEO we saw appear
Greg Shyba brings vast experience to the role
And will continue to lead us towards each goal

We have also seen the launch of the new ASCCA website
Which takes our content online to a new height
Upload a photo, book a hike and read our news
There's interesting information for everyone to peruse

Connecting youth to nature we opened the door
And saw children's imaginations soar
To our 2011 education sponsors our thanks must be sent
MD FCSS, Nexen Inc, Imperial Oil Foundation and
TD Friends of the Environment

Our Winter Walkabout programs are now underway
Call 403-931-2042 to book your program today
Throughout winter you may also hike and snowshoe
Book online and enjoy the splendor of the Area in winter too

We thank everyone who has donated for your support
And our volunteers whose work is of upmost import
Whether you live far or near
We hope to see you in the New Year!

Please visit our website at: www.crossconservation.org for more information and to book a hike.

The Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area (ASCCA) is a 4800 acre day-use nature preserve located on 160 St SW off Highway 22X, just 2 miles from the south western Calgary city limits. The Conservation Area offers a mix of aspen forest and grassland habitats and is home to over 400 species of plants, 140 species of birds and 25 species of mammals. The Area has offered quality conservation education programs for adults, families and children since 1993.The courses cover a wide range of topics that are suitable for every age. For more information view our website at www.crossconservation.org or call 931-2042.

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Household Hints by Rosemary ~ Light Up the Season

My latest hint comes from all places, my husband. He sent me a note from a friend, that had been circulating on the internet so I can't give credit to the originator, I believe they have been lost on the way. It really is a great idea. During a power outage, while scrambling around in the dark, they realized the solar garden lights were brightly lit. They brought several inside and anchored them in plastic drink bottles with some marbles, or aquarium stones. If you don't have stones or marbles, you could use kitty litter, or all those pennies in a jar that you have been saving for so long. Even prettier if you gift wrap the bottles and tie a bow around the top. Or, place them in your inside potted plant pots, safe, bright and attractive. There are seasonal decorated solar lights being sold now and I am going to set some outside to charge, then bring them in and set them in the poinsettia pots just for the sake of some whimsy. Smart idea even after Christmas when “the lights” go out.
Another idea sent to me was from a woman who has a very small kitchen table and when entertaining guests didn't have enough room on the table for all the food she wanted to serve. The solution was to go up. She crafted her own multilayer servers. Using a couple of plastic plates she filled some clear drinking glasses with different wrapped candy (you could use your filler of choice) and glued the glasses to the center of the plates with non-toxic children's craft glue. The glue will dissolve in water and the glasses reused, as well as the candy. If you don't have craft glue handy, candle wax will also do the trick to hold the glasses in place. I'm going to use plastic Christmas trays and old wine glasses, but will have to put one at each corner; I'll fill the wine glasses with mini Christmas balls, tie a tartan ribbon around the stem and set the tray on top as I want the glasses upside down. Cakes on the bottom and cupcakes on the top, or crackers and cheese. The possibilities are endless as this idea can be adapted to many different styles, and occasions.
Need place markers for your sit down supper? A cute Christmas or New Year craft: cover a three by five piece of cardboard with wrapping paper, glue a small glass or plastic Christmas ball to it, then glue the multi-circle ring from a key ring to the top, cut a piece of cardboard with pinking shears and insert it between the circles. Or, if you're using Christmas crackers glue a gift tag with the guests name on it to the cracker and place it on the plate.
Whatever your decorations are, whatever or wherever your celebrations will be I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful winter season.

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Colouring Contest deadline is Dec 31st

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Service outage affecting access to emergency services

Monday, Dec. 19, 2011

High River, AB: Due to an issue with Telus fibre optic system, which has disrupted landlines and some cell phone connections, individuals may not be able to call 911 should they need to. In response to this situation, the High River Fire Department is asking anyone with a 911 emergency to come directly to the fire station, located at 5 St SE and 12 Ave.

“At this time, we do not know how long it will take for Telus to repair the problem,” said Deputy Fire Chief Trevor Allan. “We want to alert the public about the situation and let them know how to get in touch with us should an emergency occur.”

An EMS unit is available in High River so those with a medical emergency can also go straight to the fire station, if it is closer than the hospital.

The outage, which occurred late in the morning, has also shut down interact machines, impacting many businesses in town.

CFIB Calls for Consultation on Impaired Driving Law

Effectiveness of proposed law questionable, but small business would be seriously impacted
On November 21st the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) called on Premier Redford to engage in a meaningful consultation with small businesses in the hospitality sector before her government enacts proposed new impaired driving legislation.
The Alberta government is expected to introduce a new law this week similar to one in B.C. that allows license suspensions and vehicle seizures for drivers whose blood-alcohol level is found to be below the legal limit of 0.08 but above 0.05. However, a growing number of small business owners in the hospitality industry are concerned the new law will not effectively help prevent and punish impaired drivers, but instead have serious and ongoing impact on the viability of their businesses.
“Like other Albertans, small businesses support the enforcement of strong laws to punish drunk drivers and renewed efforts to find effective prevention strategies. But while it's not clear if the new law in B.C. had a meaningful impact on the impaired driving issue, it most definitely has significantly impacted many small businesses in the hospitality sector that are already struggling with a weakening economy, ongoing labour shortages and government imposed minimum wage hikes”, said Richard Truscott, Alberta Director.
B.C. implemented their system of administrative penalties without consultation and has caused considerable confusion for the public about whether it is permissible to even have a glass of wine when dining out. Some restaurant and pub owners in B.C., especially outside the lower mainland, have reported losses between 10 to 50 per cent.
Experts are also raising doubts about the effectiveness of administrative penalties. The president of the Traffic Injury Research Foundation, Robyn Robertson, stated last week that Alberta already has a “good structure” in place to deal with impaired drivers. Robertson believes the province should instead adopt more effective enforcement strategies for drivers who violate the existing laws, especially repeat offenders and younger drivers who are impaired.
Truscott pointed out Alberta already has some of the strongest zero-alcohol tolerance licensing rules for new drivers in Canada, thereby effectively targeting this high-risk segment. “We are eager to work with government to facilitate a meaningful consultation before any new laws are passed. Ultimately, the goal should be to ensure effective enforcement strategies to combat impaired driving without such a negative impact on small businesses”, concluded Truscott.


About CFIB: As Canada's largest association of small and medium-sized businesses, CFIB is Powered by Entrepreneurs™. Established in 1971, CFIB takes direction from more than 108,000 members in every sector nationwide, giving independent business a strong and influential voice at all levels of government and helping to grow the economy.

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Gifts and Gripes ~ BFI Garbage Dump Proposed Near Blackie

Dear Editor:
I hope by now that residents of the MD of Foothills are aware of the proposed garbage dump about to be presented to the MD Council. I am not a resident of the MD, but would live “downstream” should this monstrosity be allowed to exist and threaten our groundwater, our wildlife, our road safety, and air quality, to name just a few of the detriments. Groundwater contamination knows no boundaries or county lines.
Every week, the (BFI) Prairie Sky Resource Centre is touting its so-called benefits to the community, yet, there are very few people who can truly see or believe the benefits they boast about bringing to the area.
I would like to find one realtor who will put in writing that property values go up when located near a dump. This is just one of the many claims that BFI makes, which really shows the blatant absurdity of their proposal. They have a huge marketing budget and are greasing the community wheels by donating money to organizations in the MD and presenting themselves as “green”. Their paid for articles do not represent the true impact this dump will have on this area and the people living here, and, the green veil of environmental goodness is just that - a veil. This is a dump with token recycling and composting.
Since I don't live in the MD, and therefore won't be able to have a say, I hope the fellow residents and businesses of the MD will support their neighbours out in the farming Community of Blackie in their efforts to protect this valuable area. So many generations of farm families have supported the businesses of the MD for decades and helped them prosper. The Hamlet of Blackie turns 100 years old in 2012. Is removing 960 acres of productive farmland and rewarding a dump to BFI to be its legacy? This rich historical area deserves so much more.
When you see a petition against the proposed Prairie Sky Resource Centre, please take a moment to sign and support your neighbours.

Sincerely,
Leslie Brown
Vulcan County




All “Letters To The Editor” are more than welcome at the Gateway Gazette and whenever possible we will endeavour to print them. We reserve the right to edit or not publish submissions if they are in extreme bad taste, vulgar or could do damage to other specific persons. Please note that published submissions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Gateway Gazette, staff, associates or family. The Gateway Gazette (along with anyone connected to the Gateway Gazette) does not assume any liability or responsibility in light of the opinions of others. With all of that out of the way, please feel free to send us your thoughts or opinions, preferably by email at: gazette@telus.net, you can fax them to: 938-2473, or you can drop them off in our drop-box at Coyote Moon in Turner Valley or at Pharmasave in Black Diamond.

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High River Recognized For Healthy Living

The Town of High River has been chosen from 130 communities to receive two prestigious healthy lifestyle awards from the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA). The awards, one for Health Education and the other for Overall Achiever, recognize the community's outstanding efforts to support and promote healthy lifestyles. They are part of the ChooseWell initiative under the Government of Alberta's Healthy U Campaign, which is focused on increasing awareness of healthy eating and active living.
“This honour is shared by a variety of partners who have been instrumental in providing healthy living programs to our community,” said Cynthia Farrow, community program supervisor at Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex. “The Calgary Rural Primary Care Network, made up of local physicians, and the Healthy Community Coalition are just two examples of organizations that have supported a variety of initiatives aimed at helping residents stay healthy.”
The Overall Achiever award includes a $2,000 cheque to fund additional programs that promote healthy lifestyles and is presented to a community that has demonstrated a wide breadth of programs and strategies encompassing a large demographic. High River's programs include weekly free swimming and skating, Family Sports Nights and an After School Drop-in for youth at the recreation complex, the ChooseWell Challenge, and adding distance markers and maps to the Happy Trails system. Programs under the Health Education banner include lunch and learn sessions, nutrition seminars and workshops and Science in the Cinema where participants are invited to free movies focusing on a variety of health issues and challenges. Guest speakers are invited to answer questions after each show. As well, a number of entertaining hands-on programs have been created including Big Cooks and Collective Kitchens where participants have the opportunity to cook as a group and produce budget conscious, healthy meals for their families.
“We are proud of everything we have accomplished and we're especially proud of having done it in collaboration and in cooperation with community partners, agencies and citizens,” said Darren Goldthorpe, manager of parks and recreation, “We are very fortunate to have a committed group of health care professionals, business owners and volunteers working together to help make High River a healthy place to live, work and play.”
The awards will be presented during a banquet and ceremony in August 2012 at the Foothills Centennial Centre in Okotoks.

Holiday Community Calendar - December 31st

Saturday, December 31st – Royal Canadian Legion Turner Valley - New Year's Eve Social. 403-933-4600.

Saturday, December 31st, 5:00pm - Family New Year's Eve Celebration – Flare 'N Derrick, Turner Valley.

Saturday, December 31st - Children's New Year's Eve Party, Okotoks. 403-938-8950.

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Ted Menzies - Did You Know.....

That… The Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, announced the reintroduction of the Citizen's Arrest and Self-Defence Act. This legislation will clarify the ability to make a citizen's arrest and streamline and simplify the self–defence and defence of property provisions in the Criminal Code. Our Government is committed to putting real criminals behind bars. Canadians want to know they are able to protect themselves against criminal acts and that the justice system is behind them, not against them. Canadians who have been the victim of a crime should not be re-victimized by the criminal justice system. That is why our Government reintroduced legislation to provide clear direction on the appropriate use of citizen's arrest, self-defence and defence of property. While police continue to be the first line of defence against crime, their presence is not always feasible. This legislation addresses those situations. The legislation will enable a person to make an arrest, within a reasonable amount of time, if someone is found committing a property-related offence and police are not present. Law-abiding Canadians should not be the target of the criminal justice system. For more information: http://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/news-nouv/nr-cp/2011/doc_32671.html

That… The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, announced the introduction of the First Nations Financial Transparency Act. This legislation is part of our Government's commitment in the 2011 Speech from the Throne to support democratic, transparent and accountable First Nation governments. The Government believes First Nations, like all Canadians, deserve transparency and accountability from their elected officials. Transparent and accountable First Nations governments will create a better environment for economic development, which will help create much needed jobs and growth on reserves across Canada. The First Nations Financial Transparency Act will require First Nations to publish the salaries and expenses of their elected leaders as well as their audited financial statements. This legislation will help pave the way to greater private sector investment and economic prosperity for First Nations. For more information: http://www.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca/eng/1322065340343

That… Prime Minister Stephen Harper and our Government paid tribute to Canadian troops who served on Operation Mobile, as part of the NATO-led Operation Unified Protector in support of the Libyan people. Canada is proud to have supported the Libyan people in their quest for a brighter future free of tyranny and ruthless one man rule. We celebrate a great military success: the success of Canada's participation in Operation Unified Protector and Operation Mobile, respectively the NATO mission to Libya and Canada's contribution to it. We are extremely proud of the men and women of the Royal Canadian Air Force and Royal Canadian Navy whose contribution was, without a doubt, instrumental in the protection of civilians from the violence of the Gaddafi regime. Canada once again punched above its weight as part of an international coalition. On behalf of all Canadians, we congratulate Lieutenant-General Charles Bouchard and commend him for his pivotal role in leading the combined NATO military mission. He has represented our country with distinction. Canada will continue to support Libya in the post-Gaddafi era as it takes steps toward freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law for all Libyans. For more information: http://pm.gc.ca/eng/media.asp?category=3&featureId=6&pageId=49&id=4493



For further information, please contact: The office of Ted Menzies at (613) 995-8471
For further information about Government updates and news in the Riding please visit my website at: www.tedmenzies.ca

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Wildrose announces candidates in six constituencies

Wildrose is pleased to announce the following candidates:
Ms. Linda Carlson (Edmonton-Gold Bar)
Linda supports free markets and limited government and believes that Wildrose presents the best vision for Alberta's future. She has worked as a policy analyst for the Federal government where she reported on Alberta's healthcare system and economy, and also as a fundraiser for a local non-profit organization. Linda lives in Cloverdale with her husband Chris.
Ms. Meagen LaFave (Edmonton-Strathcona)
Meagen is an employee of the University of Alberta, and director for Klondike Crane Inspection, and regularly snowboards and plays volleyball in her community. She looks forward to working hard to ensure the success of the Wildrose Party in Edmonton-Strathcona.
Mr. Peter Janisz (Edmonton-McClung)
Peter is a first generation Canadian, having emigrated from Poland. He is a small business owner with a more than 20 year career in the construction industry. Peter is a proud husband and father of three children, and a long-time resident of the Lessard community.
Mr. Dave Nelson (Battle River-Wainwright)
Dave Nelson is fourth generation farmer in Metiskow where he has always been very active in the community through the local Agriculture Society, the Lions Club, the 4-H club, the curling club and discing club. Dave has also been a very strong fighter for property rights being one of the founding members of the Responsible Firearm Owners of Alberta and for the children being an elected school trustee for the past three terms with Buffalo Trail Public Schools.
Mr. Kevin Kinahan (Lethbridge-West)
Kevin Kinahan grew up in Lethbridge and attended the Lethbridge College taking Business Administration before transferring up to the University of Lethbridge and completing his B.Ed. with a major in business education and a minor in mathematics. He has been in education for the past 21 years with the last 11 in administration. Kevin has been married to his wife Christine for 19 years and they have three children.
Mr. Nathan Stephan (Red Deer-South)
Nathan Stephan is a Chartered Accountant and successful entrepreneur. He is happily married to his wife Tracey for 11 years, and together they have six wonderful children. Nathan grew up in Red Deer, and his children are the 5th generation of his family to call Red Deer home. He looks forward to representing the people of his hometown in a responsible and accountable provincial government.

Wildrose stands for free enterprise, less government, increased personal freedom and democracy.

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Household Hints by Rosemary ~ Candied Citrus Fancies

I normally start thinking about Christmas around the beginning of November because we have to get our parcels and cards off to family and friends far away. Once this mind-set is in place I then collect all sorts of bits and pieces of crafts and cooking tricks to try out and perhaps use to fancy up our Christmas table, tree and decorations.
I do love to make citrus balls with oranges and cloves at Christmas and have lots of oranges left over. This year I'm determined to go a step further and make candied citrus peel. My nephew's fiancée uses it all the time and shared her recipes with me. All citrus fruit works very well with this procedure, oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits, although I don't like the grapefruit as much as the others.
First wash and dry the fruit very well, then if you are lucky enough to have a citrus peeler, which I believe will peel the fruit in long thin curls, prepare the parings. If not you can use a potato peeler and take just the top layer of peel, otherwise, peel the fruit in wedges with a paring knife, scrape as much of the white pith away as you can, then slice the peel into very thin strips.
In a medium saucepan add about five ounces of sugar to about eight ounces of water and add the strained juice of the fruit. Stir the mixture to dissolve the sugar, bring the syrup to a boil, turn down the heat and add the peel; try to keep the peels from sticking to one another as it's just more appealing. Allow it all to simmer until the peel becomes very translucent. Don't stir the mixture during this stage as it will form sugar crystals and don't scrape the sides of the saucepan for the same reason.
Once the peel is translucent, strain the peel from the syrup, in a large zip seal plastic bag put about a half cup of sugar, add the peel and gently shake it until the peel is coated. Set the peel on wax paper and allow it to dry, which will take a while, or you can heat your oven to a low setting of 100°C, check every twenty minutes or so to make sure it's not browning. Once dry, seal the candied peel in an airtight container, use a paper towel as a base to keep the peel dry and store in the fridge. Sounds as if it's a lot of work, but it really isn't. Using orange, lemon and lime all together give so much colour.
I'm told the peel doesn't freeze well so you can only keep it for a week or two before using. It is wonderful for fancying up iced cakes or cupcakes, added to drinks, desserts, very fancy as a topping on the meringue on a lemon or key lime pie or as a garnish on almost anything. If it's coming to its “best before” date, chop it in smaller pieces and add it to a cake, cookie or muffin mix - delicious zing.

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The biggest, the best, the longest-running, the most well-attended Santa Parade in Alberta!

High River, Dec 2nd