airdrielife fall 2004 by airdrielife magazine

f a l l / w i n t e r 2 0 0 4 • v o l u m e 1 • n u m b e r 1 • w w w. a i r d r i e . c a

AirdrieLIFE THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO LIFE IN THE CITY OF AIRDRIE

Discover what makes Airdrie great Complete community profiles

Inside this issue: detailed city map, city living information, show home highlights and much more

CITY OF AIRDRIE

At Hopewell, we look at life and our communities a little dif ferently and our vision for Sagewood is to create a community where homes are so much more than a collection of rooms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where you and your family live, love and laugh. With a planned area of 126 acres, Sagewood offers plenty of green space and room to run, jump, play and do cartwheels. W ith a local sports field and Monklands Soccer Park nearby, this community is also ideal for kids on the move and grownups who are keeping up. Experience Brilliant Living in Sagewood.

16 SHOWHOMES from the $150s Innovations by Jayman Sabal Crafted Homes

from the $200s Beattie Homes Landmark Homes McKee Homes Reid Built Homes

Showhome Hours Monday - Thursday: 2 - 8pm Weekends & Holidays: Noon - 5pm Friday: Closed

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE

Welcome to Airdrie

Volume 1 • Number 1

irdrie is an ex ceptional place to do business, live, work or play. This publication features Airdrie’s best, sharing the excitement and vibrancy that is hard to ignore. When I first considered becoming Airdrie’s City Manager, I was attracted to the ci ty’s potential, youthfulness, and enthusiasm. In the eight years I have lived and worked in Airdrie, I have experienced firsthand the warmth, generosity and excitement radiating throughout the community. Opportunity exists on every corner in this modern, active City. The sense of enthusiasm, combined with a s mall town feeling, has attracted businesses and people from across Canada to c ome and live in Airdrie. Everyone wants to be a part of the many exciting challenges and opportunities the growth of the City has created. Airdrie has features that many communities have not developed, such as our p ark system. The modern linear pathway links to e very school, park and facility in Airdrie. If you are walking your dog, riding a bike or out for a stroll, you can go around the entire community, from any neighbourhood park to the recreation facility. This is just one feature lending itself to family and leisure activities. Businesses and industry are also thriving in Airdrie. With 40 per cent of our population new to Airdrie in the last five years, and continued rapid growth expected, many opportunities exist for a new business to carve out a niche. A highly skilled labour force is also dr awn to Airdrie for employment. This is represented by Airdrie’s average family income which is higher than larger cities. Airdrie is close to all major market areas and transportation routes, including the Calgary International Airport and Highway #2. The City is situated on the Calgary-Edmonton corridor, which has r ecently been recognized as ho me to o ne of the strongest economies in North America while still enjoying a high quality of life.Airdrie is the fastest growing City on this corridor with a steady incline of growth. As a community, Airdrie is experienced at handling growth challenges and we are excited about our future.

PUBLISHER EDITOR

MARKETING 4U Sherry Shaw-Froggatt

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Kathy Anderson

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Kim Williams

For editorial inquiries: email: airdrielife@shaw.ca For advertising inquiries: email: knanders@shaw.ca 266-7154 City Contacts: Kent Rupert Tara Richards 984-8800

Printing: Calgary Colorpress AirdrieLIFE is published twice per year by MARKETING 4U in conjunction with the City of Airdrie Economic Development Department AirdrieLIFE is delivered to over 30,000 homes in Airdrie and surrounding communities. Additional copies are available at Airdrie City Hall 400 Main Street Airdrie Alberta

George Keen City of Airdrie Manager

ABOUT THE COVER: The Belle family enjoys AirdrieLIFE on a fall day. Page 50 - The Belles head home.

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement, and all representations of warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher. No portion of this publication maybe reproduced, in all or in part, without the written permission of the publisher. Canadian publications mail sales product agreement No. 40648615

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

table of contents 4 8 9 10

Welcome from the City

11 13 14 16

Get moving! Airdrie is active

Condo life – what are the options in Airdrie

26 29

Need a map? We’ve got one!

Airdrie is working – an economic profile

residents today are new to the c ommunity in the past five years.

Taking care of business, Airdrie has it all

So welcome! You have made (or are planning to make) a great choice!

32&44 Airdrie home style sneak a peek

growing

ack in 1985 when Airdrie officially became Alberta’s 14th ci ty, the population was 10,631. Wow, have we grown since then! From 1990 – 1995, Airdrie grew 28 per cent and from 1996 – 1999 by almost 32 per cent. Today, Airdrie is a l ively community of 26,000 residents. Over the past five years Airdrie has experienced a s teady growth rate of 7 – 8 p er cent annually which means that approximately 40 p er cent of Airdrie

Airdrie is a young,family-oriented community and our statistics prove it with the highest percentage of our population falling between the age s of 0-19 and 25-44. Airdrie has so m uch to o ffer with a w ide variety of services and facilities that enhance the qual ity of life for everyone living in and visiting Airdrie. From a great selection of dining and retail operations and financial, professional and wellness services, Airdrie’s commercial industry is gr owing with the population.

AirdrieLIFE is all about you! 6

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

At home in Airdrie – meet the Nielsens Life’s great in Airdrie – the survey says A heritage moment – a look at Airdrie’s past

Calendar of events Cultured? Entertaining? You bet! Community profiles Where to live? Use this handy reference guide to learn more about each community within Airdrie

Say “I do” to Airdrie – beautiful beginnings

at the interiors of some of Airdrie’s exciting show homes

33 34

Flooring today – what’s new, what’s hot

34 36 38 40

Get educated – Airdrie schools

Community minded – a list of community contacts to help you get started in Airdrie

Splash! East Lake Recreation & Wellness Centre winter schedule

The last word – our editor loves Airdrie

A welcoming idea – Vicki McClain wants to meet you!

Inside City Hall Environmentally friendly A protected city - a look at the Airdrie Emergency Services, municipal and federal enforcement

Live the Dream A MASTER PLANNED COMMUNITY CENTERED IN VIBRANT AIRDRIE Over 100 acres of sensational streetscapes offering a unique mix of stunning single-family homes and contemporary townhomes, all nestled around a carefully landscaped nature park.

• Five Master Builders • Water pond & soccer field • Children’s playground • Schools & shopping within easy reach • 10 minutes from Calgary • Situated on Big Hill Springs Rd SW and 8th Street SW

www.vestaproperties.com Choose from spacious 2 bedroom plus loft or 3 bedroom townhomes all featuring a great room, full basement, huge backyard and tons of parking. All this, next to Luxstone’s lush parkland and walking trails. PRICED FROM THE $120’s CALL CHAD ALLAN MAXWELL CANYON CREEK 403.278.8899 chad@vestaproperties.com

UNIQUE URBAN LOFT TOWNHOMES-ON-THE-PARK

NOW SELL ING

Visit our showhome suite at 107 – 2006 Luxstone Blvd., Airdrie. Open Monday to Wednesday 4 – 8pm Saturday & Sunday 1 – 5pm (Closed Thursday & Friday)

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

family

sk Mark and Brenda Nielsen what they love most about Airdrie and conversation will keep coming back to their children, Cody 12 and Kelsey 6. Brenda was pregnant with Kelsey when they decided it was time to look for a bigger house. They were also concerned about the choices of schools they were facing in southeast Calgary so Brenda told Mark,“find me a nice house in a community I’ll like and I’ll look at it.” She had no idea Mark would suggest Airdrie, but he had been hearing all sorts of good feedback from co-workers and friends who had already moved to the c ommunity.“ We kept hearing about how family-oriented it was and that it had great sports programs for the kids,” Mark says. “At first, I did not want to come to Airdrie at all,” laughs Brenda,“I was worried it was too small!” But when they came out to check the housing options, Brenda liked what she saw. At that time there were two major developments underway, Woodside on the west and Thorburn on the e ast. Thorburn was the first choice because it was closer to the recreation facilities, but what the Nielsens discovered as they cam e out almost daily to work with their builder on their new home was that Thorburn was the b est kept secret in Airdrie. Located on the e astside, Thorburn was all single-family development, something Brenda was very focused on having. It was walking distance to school, there was plenty of green space, less traffic than the w est side and even quieter. “Once we moved in, we suddenly realized what we had,” Mark says. And what did they have? “An incredible community to raise kids in for sports, great schools and people who have the same values as us.” Moving into a brand new neighbourhood can be overwhelming, but not in Thorburn.

“The most amazing thing to m e was that within hours of moving in I had met several of my neighbours!” Brenda says, still impressed with that memory. Friendships formed fast as neighbours helped each other lay sod, borrow tools and began to socialize regularly. For the k ids, moving to Airdrie was also a great experience, as Mark points out. “Here your kids get a c hance to de velop good friendships because they p lay on the sam e sports teams, go to the sam e schools, live close by and as a r esult we get to k now the whole community.”

“ I’ve found that the clubs and organizations are run much better here in Airdrie…everyone involved wants the same thing – a better community.” The top three list for Mark and Brenda are the schools, the sports facilities and the clubs and organizations that make Airdrie a great place to live, especially the organizations.“ I’ve found that the clubs and organizations are run much better here in Airdrie than i n Calgary. I think it’s because everyone involved wants the same thing – a better community.” Mark and Brenda have both been actively involved coaching hockey and basketball respectively. This year Cody is playing hockey and basketball in the lo cal community

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

leagues and Kelsey will be skating and doing gymnastics at the Airdrie Gymnastics Club. “Everything a family could need is here, and if it’s missing, well the big city is ten miles down the road – what could be better?” Mark says. That drive down the r oad is a r egular workday commute for Brenda and Mark. Brenda finds the 25-mi nute commute a breeze.“It’s such an easy drive – no stop start traffic as if I was coming across Calgary to get to work.” Mark adds,“ alot of our co-workers live in Calgary and it takes them longer to get to work!” With growing active kids, Mark and Brenda realize it’s time to s tart thinking about building a b igger home. And are they planning some serious r esearch this time. Nope. “We are not leaving this community, we love it too much,” says Brenda so the Nielsens are planning to build in the next 18 months right here in Thorburn. Phase 12 is just opening up and Mark and Brenda have already started talking to the builders. “Why would we give up what we have,” Brenda questions, “Cody can w alk to sc hool, the pool, even the rink. We can keep all of that and have our next dream home. It’s perfect.” The Nielsen family is righ t at home in Airdrie. Qualico began developing Thorburn as a 100 per cent single-family home community over twenty years ago. When the Nielsens moved to Airdrie. Thorburn was in ph ase four. Phase twelve beg ins in 2005. B y the e nd of 2007, 1030 f amilies will have called Thorburn home.

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

great

The word is out according to the 2003 City survey – Airdrie residents love their city! HERE ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS:

94% of Airdrie residents

rate the quality of life as “good or very good”.

A high percentage of Airdrie residents are positive about the following services available in the City: Airdrie’s Emergency services rated

93%

4 in 5

Almost Airdrie residents rate the quality of services in Airdrie as “good or very good.”

Recycling programs Parks

86%

87%

82% Garbage Collection 80% Utilities Department

( % saying good or very good)

Airdrie offers value for the tax dollar –according to the 2003 survey 66 per cent of residents felt that the value received for the service provided by the City is “good or somewhat good”. That’s over 12 per cent higher than Calgary residents rated their community!

It’s Easy To Own A New Home…

in Airdrie

Show Home Hours

For over a decade, Reid Built has made it easier for families to own a new home in Air drie. As one of the city’s largest builders we have show homes in the most preferred family communities.

Monday to Thursday 2pm to 8pm ■ Saturday, Sunday & Holidays 12pm to 5pm ■

Visit our show homes in: ■ Bayside 945–1798 ■ Thorburn Meadows 948–3856 ■ Sagewood

Our spacious designs, master craftsmanship, supportive customer services and family friendly prices are just a few of the things you can look forward to when you visiting our show homes. And then make the easy choice and build with us.

948–4886 Airdrie Rd.

Irricana Rd.

Big Springs Rd.

Edmonton Tr.

East Lake

East Lake Blvd.

Bayside

Main St. W

Sagewood 8 St. W

6 St. NE

3 Ave. N

Thorburn Meadows

Yankee Valley Rd.

For a listing of show homes today visit r eidbuilthomes.com fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING FAC I L I T Y HIGHLIGHTS East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre Curling Club Skateboard park Tennis & basketball courts 18 hole golf course and pro shop Kinsmen Splash Park Plainsmen Arena Fletcher & Chinook Winds Ball Park Monklands Soccer Park Over 33 kilometres of paved pathways BMX track Iron Horse Park Airdrie and District Recreation Complex – Twin Arenas Neighborhood parks with playground equipment Five outdoor arenas

AirdrieLIFE is…

active

Recreation Airdrie residents enjoy a s uperior quality of life and a safe environment to raise their children. An extensive array of activities and facilities are available to m eet your family’s needs year-round. For example, Airdrie has a twin ice arena (recreation complex), championship BMX tr ack, softball and baseball diamonds and a m unicipal library. In January 2004, Airdrie opened the n ew $12 million East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre. This state of the art facility offers residents : • Water slide • 6 lane 25 metre pool • Leisure pool • Public/family and corporate change rooms

• • • • • • •

Lazy river Steam room Hot tub Dance studio Full-size gymnasium Fitness centre Multipurpose

The City also offers Nose Creek Park, which is a 40 acr e oasis in the centre of downtown Airdrie featuring picnic tables and shelters, nature trails, and an am phitheatre. Nose Creek park offers a stocked fishing pond in the summer and a s kating pond in the winter. Residents can also enjo y the tw in movie theatres which offer the latest releases. An 18-hole golf course and club house, as well as a 400-se at performing arts theatre,

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

photo credit: Pablo Galvez, www.capturedmemories.ca

cityLIVING

photo credit: Airdrie City View

add to the sporting and cultural activities available to residents. The City of Airdrie Recreation Department issues the “In the City” recreation brochure three times a y ear, which has i nformation on aerobics/fitness classes; summer children’s programs; swimming lessons; certification for swimming instructors; the Terry Fox run in September; Participation in May; fun run i n June; Canada Day Celebrations in July; parent and tot play & s kate; adult volleyball; social dancing; national coaching certification program; nutrition workshops; and beginner tai chi and yoga. Other recreational facilities include the P lainsmen Arena, Airdrie Kinsmen Splash Park, Town and Country Centre (curling rinks, meeting halls), Monklands Soccer Park, Chinook Winds Ball Park, Woodside Golf Course, East Lake Recreation Park, Fletcher Park, Bicycle Motocross Track (BMX), Bert Church Performing Arts Theatre, Nose Creek Museum, gym facilities, tennis courts, 36 km of paved pathways, 578 acres of parks, school grounds, 32 playgrounds, 31 soccer fields and 22 ball diamonds. Recreation outside of Airdrie includes Big Springs Provincial Park (30 km west), numerous mountain recreational opportunities in the Rocky Mountains and Kananaskis Country, and access to Calgary’s world-class recreational facilities and events. fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is… History of Airdrie

about heritage

he Nose Creek Valley corridor historically played a distinctive role in the development of the region. The valley was first discovered by the Blackfoot Tribe who found a haven from the harsh winter climate in the protective coulees and ridges of the valley. Nose Creek originates a few miles northwest of Crossfield and joins to flo w through Airdrie on its way to meet the Bow River in north Calgary. Airdrie was named by William McKenzie in 1889 after a village northeast of Glasgow in his native Scotland. The name “Airdrie” means “The King’s Height”. The first settlers in Airdrie were railway workers of the Calgary and Edmonton (C&E) Railway. These workers lived in the station house. In 1891 the C&E Rail way came winding up the coulee from Calgary. Taking advantage of easy grades, the answer to a r ailroad builder’s dream opened up before surveyor’s and engineer’s eyes. Here was a v alley a mile an d a half wide with a substantial stream winding lazily through it. Many a steam engine took on water through the years. The Airdrie water was good for engines as the alkali content was low.

D AT E S I N H I S T O RY 1900 1901

After the post office arrived in 1900, a boom time followed. A few years later there was a hotel, restaurant, three grocery and general stores, three blacksmith shops, livery stable, butcher shop,drug store and a country doctor. In August 1923, J.E. Gustus of Yankee Valley signed marketing contract No. 1 with the Alberta Wheat Pool and within a f ew days, scores of farmers from this rich, grain growing area had signed up. Since those early years Airdrie has been regarded as one of the strongest Alberta Wheat Pool points in this province. In rough fashion, but more respectful of the farms in its path, the first highway followed the railway to the man y towns that had sprung up as sidings, section points and grain elevator service centres. This was the g reat beginning to Airdrie which was incorporated as Alberta’s 14th city in January 1985. Airdrie now has a population of 26,000 residents. Known for its superior quality of life, Airdrie truly is a City of “Community and Opportunity”.

1904 1905 1909

1921 1928 1940

1959

1967 1974

1985

1988

2004 For more information on the history of Airdrie, visit the Nose Creek Valley Museum 1701 Main Street South, Box 3351 Airdrie, Alberta T4B 2B6 Telephone: (403) 948-6685 (Source: Nose Creek Valley Museum)

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

Airdrie Post Office opened First house built in Airdrie by Arthur E. Bowers First bank was opened by the Union Bank of Canada Province of Alberta was created, with Edmonton as the capital Airdrie was incorporated as a village with about 250 residents, 31 houses and 2 schools Airdrie’s first newspaper, The Airdrie Recorder Airdrie had its first electricity Airdrie Airport, covering 640 acres, was established by the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan The Airdrie water tower was built and called “Horton Watersphere”. It is presently used as a landmark. Canada was 100 years old as a nation Airdrie, with a population of 3,879, was incorporated as a town Airdrie was incorporated as Alberta’s 14th city, with a population of 10,631 The City of Airdrie welcomed the relay team carrying the Olympic torch to Calgary, host of the Olympic Winter Games Airdrie’s population is 26,000 (census 2004)

(Source: Nose Creek Valley Museum and City of Airdrie)

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

eventful

Here are some of the many community events that provide enjoyment and entertainment for all ages. SPRING Airdrie Home and Garden Fair – Twin Arena Airdrie Rotary Club Lobster Boil – Town and Country Centre Synchro Star Club of Airdrie Water Show – East Lake Aquatic Centre Airdrie Dance Academy Follies Show – Bert Church Theatre photo credit: Airdrie Festival of Lights

United Church Spring Bazaar

WINTER

Volunteer Appreciation Celebration

Airdrie Festival of Lights – Nose Creek Park Christmas Festival of Teddy Bears – Nose Creek Valley Museum Lioness Christmas Bazaar Santa Claus Parade Moonlight Madness

Bike Festival

FA L L Small Business Week/Winning Edge Awards Airdrie BMX Grand Provincial Races Soap Box Derby Terry Fox Run Annual Show ’n Shine

SUMMER Canada Day Parade & Events Airdrie Professional Rodeo Little League All Star Tournament Police Rodeo Stampede Challenge Hockey Tournament

fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

THE BERT CHURCH Live T H E A T R E

cityLIVING

PRAIRIE MOUNTAIN FIDDLERS ‘Old-Tyme Fiddle Music’ – at its best Sa, Oct 30 7:30 pm ‘PAL JOEY’ – Rodgers and Hart’s 1957 Broadway Musical Produced by Marquee Players Sa, Nov 6 at 7:30 p.m. Su, Nov. 7 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Airdrie Little Theatre EAssociation D ON (Fall Show STP T.B.A.) O P Th, F & Sa, Nov 18, 19 & 20 ‘LIVE!’ - A Tribute to PEGGY LEE with HEATHER BISHOP and band Sa, Nov 27 7:30 pm www.heatherbishop.com THE NUTCRACKER ‘A Christmas Tradition’ Jeunesse Classique Ballet Co. Sa, Dec 4, 1:30 & 6:30 & Su, Dec 5, 2:30 pm www.iballet.com HANSEL & GRETEL Engelbert Humperdinck’s Fairy Tale Opera F, Jan 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Su, Jan. 22 at 2:30 p.m. www.teresawasden.com NILS LING – ‘The Truth about Daughters’ Story-Teller Extraordinaire Our annual ‘My Child’ concert and silent auction in support of ‘The Children’s WISH Foundation’ F, Feb 11 7:30 pm www.nilsling.com BIG BAND HONEYMOON With the Southern Stardust Big Band Orchestra Sa, Feb 26 7:30 p.m. www.southerstardustbigband BUDDY WASISNAME AND THE OTHER FELLERS ‘The Shed Tour’ Music and Fun from Newfoundland Th – Su, Mar 3 – 6 (Times and Details – T.B.A.) www.buddywasisname.com THE PIED PIPER Young People's Theatre Sa, March 12 and Sun., March 13 (Times and details TBA) TOM JACKSON – ‘Tom Foolery’ Stories, Songs and lots of Laughs Spring 2005 (T.B.A.) www.keyguys.com THE ARABIAN MARKET Produced by Shimmy Dance Productions Spring 2005 (T.B.A.) www.belly-dancers.net AIRDRIE COMMUNITY CHOIR 20th Annual Concert At the Lutheran Church of the Master Sa & Su, Apr 9 & 10 (Times – T.B.A.) ‘Just for kids . . .’ CALGARY PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA A CPO concert for and with elementary school age students sponsored by Airdrie Chamber of Commerce (Late April 2005 – T.B.A.)

D Airdrie Little Theatre NEAssociation TPO (Spring POSShow T.B.A.) TICKETS AVAILABLE AT: Towerlane Flowers, Best Photo, Air-Alta Insurance and in Crossfield at the Rockyview IDA www.airdrie.ca/arts Music in Common Performing Arts Classes with Teresa Wasden www.theresawasden.com 946-4590

AirdrieLIFE is…

entertaining

Culture and events The City of Airdrie offers many recreational and cultural opportunities for all ages.

The City of Airdrie brings you live performing arts right from their very own theatre. The Bert Ch urch Theatre is a modern 400-seat performing arts facility. Throughout the year the theatre presents a variety of live entertainment acts w ith performances the whole family can enjo y. The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra,The Nutcracker Ballet and Airdrie Community Choir are a f ew of the organizations that perform on an annual basis. In Airdrie each year ends and begins with the Festival of Lights. The illumination of over 120,000 Ch ristmas bulbs l ight up Nose Creek Park while captivating the hearts of visitors of all ages. Throughout December close to 150,000 p eople stroll through the light display. The magic of the festival brings to life the spirit of the festive season. The library is a vailable to all r esidents of Airdrie and District. In addition to lending books and magazines, inter-library loans and books in foreign languages are also offered. The library provides access to the Internet. Some of the programs offered through the library are Storytime, Time for Tots and Saturday family programs.

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

If you are looking for a l ittle history, step back in time at the N ose Creek Valley Museum. The museum has an ex cellent collection of Native artifacts recovered from the area, allowing visitors some insight into what it was like before Airdrie was developed into a set tlement. A tour through this museum tells the story of the strong ties between Airdrie and agriculture. Every spring the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce and sponsors exhibit at the Airdrie Home and Garden Fair at the Airdrie and District Recreation Complex. Over 6,000 people attend this event, which showcases Airdrie’s prosperous business community. July is an exciting month in Airdrie with the Canada Day parade and annual Pro-Rodeo, both occurring on the Canada Day long-weekend. You will have no problem getting a fr ont row seat to the Canada Day parade. Each year the parade has more entries for floats, clowns and marching bands. The Airdrie Professional Rodeo is a four-day, city-wide celebration of western hospitality. Each evening the b est of the best saddle-up for a ground-shaking showcase of world-class rodeo action. The rodeo is fun and entertaining for the whole family.

AN AIRDRIELIFE ADVERTISING FEATURE

Estates

Bayside

exquisite four-piece ensuite his and her sinks, a six foot jetted tub and separate shower. The Douglas Homes KOH SAMUI 5, 1903 sq. ft. two story has a spacious, open atmosphere a curved staircase, tiered plant ledges, and vaulted ceiling in the foyer. The flex room offers vaulted ceiling and high windows; this space is ide al for a f ormal dining room, home office, private gym, or guest bedroom. Upstairs the Jack-and-Jill style bathroom and optional homework desk are great for families.

Bayside Estates brings a ma ritime theme to Airdrie with a r eal waterfront. Nearly 80 p er cent of all homes in Bayside Estates will have private water access, and nearly 50 per cent of all homes have the capability of installing private boat docks. This second phase of Bayside has 87 lots and will be a forerunner to nearly 800 future lots, many of which will have private access to the water canals.

The 2300 sq. ft. Waverly show home features a rich distressed cognac stain oak hardwood . The main floor den features plenty of windows – great for creating those “bright ideas” and the cook of the house will love the generous island and plenty of storage space in the kitchen. Like all the show homes in Bayside Estates the Waverly show home features a finished deck with coordinating pergola.

Bayside is a G enesis community, as is The Canals c ommunity directly north of Bayside. Walking paths, and six kilometres of waterways connect these communities.

The Cordwell Home,‘Sierra’ has stunning open riser staircase, glass block pillars and three- sided fireplace in the great room. This home was been very well thought out – check out the extra space of the mudroom, the huge master bedroom with ensuite and corner soaker tub, and the homework loft at the top of the stairs.

The five builders i nvolved in Bayside Estates all b ring a talen t for creating original but totally livable family homes. Steep roof pitches, front porches, old-fashioned street lamps, a forest green roof color consistent throughout the c ommunity, and distinctive decorative treatments … all are reminiscent of a coastal community.

Reid Built has the Galiano, a 1570 sq ft bungalow walk out .The main level is all ab out entertaining with an extra large flush eating bar in granite and oak cab inets finished in a n utmeg stain. The large transom windows offer lots of natural light and the mai n floor is designed with 10ft ceilings creating a light airy and very roomy feel.

Homes By Us ‘Stonehurst’ is a two-story, 2045 sq. ft. with nine-foot ceilings and an op en to below area in the great room. The kitchen is fully appointed with maple cabinets, a large island and gleaming black granite countertops. The upper floor offers four large bedrooms and

Bayside Estates is lo cated on the west side of Airdrie and is e asily accessible off Deerfoot Trail via Big Springs Hill Road. Just follow the signs to your dream home and don ’t forget to put “buy a canoe” on your to do list. fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

communityPROFILES You have a lot of housing options in Airdrie, from condos and townhomes to starter homes and executive homes. The following pages are filled with information on each community in Airdrie. Statistics used here come from the 2003 City Census. Average condo and house prices are based on average MLS sale prices between January 1 and August 31, 2004 and were provided by Keith Wilson of Century 21 Castlewood Agencies Ltd.

AirdrieMeadows Airdrie Meadows

Airdrie Meadows is located between the downtown shopping district and the Edmonton Trail commercial sector. There are 1490 r esidents in this community. There are an average 2.9 residents per home and 61.94 per cent of the homes have Internet access. 42 per cent of the homes have a household income between $40,000 an d $79,000. Living in Airdrie Meadows means enjoying mature trees, older homes and walking distance to downtown and the tri-school district. Average condo price $107,543 Average house price $164,933

Bayside Bayside

Bayside is one of the newest developments in Airdrie and it is experiencing fast growth – the number of houses grew 59 per cent in 2004. The project is unique as i t incorporates a maritime theme complete with canals and many of the new lots now available feature private docks. The homes are larger than in some areas – averaging 2142 sq. ft. Builders in this area include Cordwell Fine Homes, Douglas Homes, Homes By Us, Reid Built Homes and Waverly Homes. See a complete feature on Bayside on page 15. Average house price $268,900

Big Springs

Big Springs makes up roughly half of the residential area located east of Highway #2. With 3287 residents and 13.2 per cent of the dwellings in the city, Big Springs has g rown in phases so you will find homes that are over twenty five years old and newer ones that are only one to two years old.There is also a mobile home park in the very north end of Big Springs. The average home has 2.7 r esidents with 62.83 p er cent homes having internet access. 35.3 per cent of the households report a household income between $40,000 and $79,000. Residents in Big Springs are within walking distance of three schools, the twin arenas and the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre. The East Lake Fire Hall is located in this community. Average condo price $94,241. Average house price (including mobile homes) $152,547

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

communityPROFILES

The Canals

The Canals is just as the name implies, part of the unique canal system created by Genesis. Each homeowner enjoys a water feature stretching over six kilometres that gently flows into a f ive acre lake. Following the en tire water system is an extensively landscaped pathway arrangement taking families on a 10 km walk or bike tour around the canals. The development’s third and latest phase (5/7) features 40 per cent of the lots backing onto parks and an e ye catching waterfall is p lanned for the future. The Canals are distinctive in part for the wider streets and lots allowing for side garage floor plans in some homes. The latest phase will have 76 lots. As of the 2004 census there were 381 dwellings, which include a mix of single family and multi-family dwellings, and just over half of them had Internet access. 26 per cent of the homes report a house hold income of over $80,000. Homebuilders in the Canals include Crestview, Kanwal, Green Valley, Palladio, Greenview and Point Grey. Average condo price $158,500 Average house price $226,547

Cooper’s Crossing Cooper’s Crossing

Cooper’s Crossing is the m ost southerly neighbourhood of Airdrie, situated on picturesque hill rising to the sou th of Big Springs Road. The elevated topography provides many walkout lots with views of rolling prairie, mountains, and the City of Airdrie. One of the main features of the community is a thoughtfully planned linear park system, designed with the intent that meandering green spaces would “crisscross” allowing residents to access most areas in the community via the park. Cooper’s Crossing encompasses 320 acres with over 35 acres of landscaped park and over six kilometres of paved pathways. The development is currently in phase six and the next exciting project is an area of estate homes on oversized lots to accommodate three car garages. There are two sites within the c ommunity designated for future schools. The average number of residents per household is 2.84 an d approximately half have Internet access. Builders in Cooper’s Crossing, which is a WestMark Holdings development, include Beattie, McKee, Talisman and Trillium Homes. Average home is just over 1900 sq. ft. Average house price $282,308

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

communityPROFILES

Downtown Downtown

Downtown has only 451 residents as the majority of the area is commercial. 25.4 per cent of the homes responding have a household income over $40,000. Average condo price $127,400 Average house price $156,500

Edgewater Edgewater

Edgewater is a subdivision situated between Main Street and Highway #2,just south of downtown.The 1833 residents here enjoy walking distance to Nose Creek Park and two public schools. Edgewater is well connected – 74 per cent of residents use the internet. 45.7 per cent of the homes have a household income between $40,000 and $79,999. There are 579 dwellings in Edgewater averaging 1167.9 sq. ft. in size. Average house price $175,438

Fairways

Fairways is located on the very northwest edge of the city and borders the Woodside golf course. Many of the new homes recently under construction back onto the golf course. There are just over 317 dwellings with an average of 2.47 residents per home. 57 per cent of the homes use the Internet. 24.7 per cent of the households have an income of more than $60,000. (Note: only 32 per cent of the homes responded to this question). The Fairways is close to two schools, the Monklands Soccer Park and the Bethan y Care Centre. Builders currently in Fairways include: Loreck, McKee and Reidbuilt. Average condo price $175,500 Average house price $249,900

Jensen Jensen

Jensen is another well-established area north of the downtown and east of Main Street. There are only 398 homes in the community and plenty of mature trees. Residents in Jensen enjoy a close proximity to the tri-school site (elementary, middle and high school) and the Town and Country Centre. The average home has 2.79 residents and 65 per cent of these homes access the Internet. 35.2 per cent of the homes reported a household income between $40,000 and $79,999. Average condo price $134,742 Average house price $199,477

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

communityPROFILES

Luxstone Park Luxstone Park Estates

Luxstone Park Estates is a brand new community still in development. This master planned community of over 100 acres offers a variety of housing choices, all nestled around a carefully landscaped nature park with walking trails, water pond, soccer field and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playground. There are five master builders involved with the single-family homes. When complete, Luxstone will have 600 homes (both single family and town home). Luxstone is currently selling the Parkside - urban loft town homes from the 120s.As of the 2004 census there were 94 households and 36.2 per cent reported a household income between $40,000 and $79,999. A small area of homes is established directly north of the Catholic High School and the first phase of town homes are directly west. Average condo price: $ 127,837 Average house price: $182,900

Mackenzie Pointe Mackenzie Pointe Mackenzie Pointe is a r ecently developed condo development featuring apartment style condos and town homes. There are currently 548 r esidents and 22.9 p er cent reported a house hold income over $40,000 (note: less than 35 p er cent responded). There is one more apartment/condo building currently scheduled for construction by Pointe of View Developments. This development is located between 8th Avenue and the railway tracks. Pricing for a one bedroom starts at $92,900 and two bedrooms are $107,900. fall/winter 2004 â&#x20AC;˘ volume 1 â&#x20AC;˘

AirdrieLIFE

communityPROFILES

Old Towne

Meadowbrook Meadowbrook Meadowbrook is the second most populated community on the east side of the city. With 2542 residents and 772 homes, they are also one of the most connected with 81 per cent of the households actively using the I nternet. Meadowbrook is 100 p er cent single-family dwellings, surrounded by walking paths and plenty of green space, walking distance to Meadowbrook Middle School and even the new convenience of the commercial shopping area, Yankee Valley Crossing. 35.5 per cent of the homes have a household income ov er $80,000. Average house price $187,760

Old Towne is directly north of downtown and has 374 homes. As its name implies, it is an o lder more established part of the city that offers close proximity to shopping, schools and bike paths. Homes are generally smaller bungalows averaging 1081 sq. ft. There is also a mobile home park. 30 per cent of the households report an income between $40,000 and $79,999. Average condo price $107,450 Average house price $170,128

Ridgegate Ridgegate

Ridgegate is a v ery established family community with 376 residences and an average of 3.39 residents per household. This neighbourhood enjoys the N ose Creek winding through it and many of the homes back onto Nose Creek Park giving them perfect seats for the Canada Day fireworks.76 per cent of the homes are tuned in to the i nternet. 31.8 per cent of the households reported an income between $40,00 and $79,999. Average house price $171,300

Sagewood Sagewood

AirdrieLIFE â&#x20AC;˘ fall/winter 2004 â&#x20AC;˘ volume 1

Sagewood is a b rand new Hopewell community focused on affordable family living that is fun an d fresh. Sagewood will be home to over 800 families on 126 acr es of beautifully situated land in Airdrieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s southwest. There are 16 n ew show homes, including Innovations by Jayman and Sabal Crafted Homes offering homes without garages starting from the $150s and Beattie Homes, McKee Homes, Landmark Homes and Reid Built Homes with front attached garage homes priced from the $200s. Home architectural styles will include Prairie, Colonial Ranch and Heritage designs. At press time, 80 per cent of product in the f irst phase has b een sold. Approximately 25 p er cent of purchasers have moved in (roughly 55 households). The average price for the starter or lane product is $176,000 and for move-up garage product is $238,000.

communityPROFILES

AirdrieLIFE is…

options

Condo living is the way to go for people who appreciate maintenance free living. Airdrie has many exceptional choices in a wide variety of styles, sizes and price points to m eet your housing needs from apartment style condos to executive style town homes. To scope out communities that have condos, look in the community profile pages in this issue of AirdrieLIFE. If condos are available the a verage MLS price (for sales between January 2004 – August 30, 2004) will help you. Pointe of View has two styles of condo living projects. The apartment condos range in price from $92,900 to $107,900.There are only a few town homes left for sale in the Mackenzie Village ranging in price from $139,900 – $149,900. These town homes have two and a half baths, three bedroom and single or double garages. Cooper’s Garden by M cKee in Cooper’s Crossing are executive town homes currently under construction with a variety of home styles including elegant bungalows and two story plans. Double garages are included in all plans. These homes start from the 190s. Valley Park is another McKee new development adjacent to Yankee Valley Crossing. Here you’ll find 1400+ sq. ft. two-storey condominium town homes by local builder McKee Homes. Many of the homes will be available with walkout basements. In Luxstone’s Parkside unique urban loft concepts are featured. Many of these homes will back onto the park and feature craftsmen style two storey plans. These homes are priced from the $120s. The condo resale market is healthy with over 60 active listings on the MLS. A three year-old three-bedroom 1323 sq. ft town home in Stonegate is listed at $155,400. In the Canals a townhome that backs onto the canal an d walking path is l isted at $179,500. The Calgary Real Estate Board reported 58 condo sales from January – June 30, 2004, in Airdrie. fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

communityPROFILES

Silver Creek Silver Creek

Silver Creek is a mix of single-family and multi-family dwellings north of Highway #567 that is nearing capacity with 374 dwellings. Bordered by the railway tracks and 8th Street , Silver Creek is full of young families.The average household has 2.88 residents and 63 per cent Internet usage. Nose Creek runs through the south end of the community and there is a brand new commercial strip mall w ithin walking distance. 45 per cent of the homes have a household income between $40,000 and $79,999. Average condo price $146,000 Average house price $188,912

Stonegate Stonegate

Stonegate is also north of Highway #567 and is right next door to S ilver Creek. Stonegate features over 450 ho mes with two condo developments. A new community in the last four years, the last phase is b eing filled in with homes currently under construction. Building in the area are Loreck Homes and McKee Homes. Emerald Homes is n ow building semi-detached homes in the c ommunity. The average household has 2.71 r esidents, 63 per cent Internet access and 43.2 p er cent of the homes have a house hold income between $40,000 - $79,999. The developers have included plenty of green space. Average condo price $141,083 Average house price $207,478

Summerhill

Summerhill is a community of 1590 residents in 542 homes that is located directly south of Nose Creek Park and Main Street winds around its west boundary. Summerhill residents enjoy easy access to w alking paths, the fountains in Nose Creek out their back doors and walking distance to schools, churches and the Co-op Shopping Centre. 68 per cent of the homes use the I nternet. 37.1 per cent of the homes report a house hold income between $40,000 and $79,000. Homes average 1124.4 sq. ft . Average house price $169,657 A I R D R I E FAC TS

30.3% of Airdrie’s population lives east of Highway 2, 69.7% live west of Highway 2

In 2004

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communityPROFILES

Thorburn Thorburn

Thorburn is a community that has grown in leaps and bounds beginning back in the 80s and by the end of 2007 there will be 1030 single-family homes. New lots are extra-wide, with or without rear lanes. All homes require attached garages and are situated on streets with low traffic volumes. In 2003 there were 587 homes all single-family dwellings with a high 3.28 residents per household average. 76.7 per cent of the homes have Internet access. Thorburn families enjoy being within walking distance of bike paths, East Lake, two schools, soccer fields, and the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre. 40.2 per cent of the homes have a house hold income over $80,000. New home prices start from the $180’s. There are four show homes from Thorburn’s builders: Layne, Loreck, McKee and Reid Built Homes. Average house price $227,182

Sunridge Sunridge

Sunridge is a s mall community of just over 100 homes just south of Highway 567. Sunridge has a high percentage of families with an average of 3.26 residents per household and 79.8 per cent internet access. Residents are within walking distance of Fletcher Park, the tri-school area and downtown shopping. 27 per cent of the homes have a household income over $80,000. Average house price $195,2000

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AirdrieLIFE

www.airdrie.ca

CITY OF AIRDRIE

400 Main St. SE

Airdrie, Alberta T4B 3C3

communityPROFILES

Waterstone Waterstone

Waterstone is a small community of 140 single-family homes mostly in a cul-de-sac formation allowing for generous lot sizes. Many of the homes are walkouts that back onto the Nose Creek green space that features fountains in the summer and skating in the winter.Very popular with families, households here average 3.64 residents per home. 25.6 per cent of the households have an i ncome over $80,000. Residents are within walking distance of schools, bike paths and shopping. Average house price $240,725

Willowbrook Willowbrook

Willowbrook is a recent development with just over 300 homes, a mix of single-family dwellings and condos. There are an average of 2.75 residents per household and slightly more than half of the homes have Internet access. Nose Creek runs through the e ast end of the community and residents are close to bike paths and shopping. 37.1 per cent of the homes reported an i ncome over $40,000 (59.6 p er cent did not respond). Average condo price: $154,661 Average house price: $209,617

Woodside

Woodside has some of the best golf course real estate available thanks to the 18-hole Woodside Golf Course that winds through the c ommunity. Homeowners enjoy plenty of green space, walking distance to tw o schools and nearby convenience shopping. There is also a la rge 50+ c ommunity within Woodside. 28.7 per cent reported a household income over $80,000. With an average of 2.82 residents per home, Woodside has 63.5 per cent of its homes using the Internet. Average condo price $126,800 Average house price $224,562

AirdrieLIFE â&#x20AC;˘ fall/winter 2004 â&#x20AC;˘ volume 1

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

beginnings W

hen Stacey and J ason Labait married this summer they said more than “I do” to each other, they were also sa ying, “I do” to their life in Airdrie. The beautiful wedding ceremony held at the Airdrie United Church sealed the relationship that blossomed in a ci ty that they both have enjoyed living in. Jason is a C ity of Airdrie Paramedic/ Firefighter and Stacey is a sough t after hairstylists at one of the busier Airdrie salons. Now back at work, they talk about life in Airdrie and how Airdrie plays an important role in their future.

“I bought my first house i n Airdrie in Meadowbrook, seven years ago,“says Stacey, “and right away I enjoyed the closeness of the community.You really do get to know people, and I know that sounds cliché but it’s true!” Stacey appreciates that Airdrie doesn’t have the traffic and noise of Calgary, but she likes that she can po p into Calgary if the mood strikes. “I find if I’ve been in Calgary for the day, I look forward to h itting the h ighway north and once I see Airdrie on the horizon I relax, I feel like I am leaving it all behind.” Jason grew up around Airdrie, graduating from Bert Ch urch High School and like a typical teenager, figured there was more to life than Airdrie. But he soon found himself back in the comm unity at 23 when he had the chance to become a member of the City’s highly valued emergency services team. “Airdrie had (and still does) a great reputation for the h igh level of patient care and when I started working and living in the same community I r ealized then tha t this was a gr eat way to w ork”. Jason was a paramedic only part-time with Airdrie Emergency Services when he started, so he worked in other communities as well. When the chance to tak e a full-ti me position in Airdrie opened in 1999, Jason jumped at it.

photo credit: Marnie Burkhart

“After working in other communities you take it for granted that you live so c lose to your work and it’s much easier to get involved in the community.” Both Jason and Stacey are fitness buffs and they love that their current home in Summerfield is so c lose to the p arks. “In Calgary you literally have to get in the car to go for a walk!” Stacey says.“Here we can step out our door and be on the paths in minutes.” She also loves that the drive to the gym takes less than ten minutes, same with meeting up with friends. “It seems i n Calgary that just meeting a friend somewhere for a coffee is a big ordeal, here it’s so m uch easier. Everything is close enough.” Having seen Airdrie change during his own lifetime, Jason is pleased with the growth of the community. “We have more amenities and as a r esult better prices and services. I enjoy how the local businesses treat me too.” Stacey is a firm believer in supporting local businesses and does as much of her shopping that she can locally.

And as Airdrie grows, so do the c hallenges. Jason, being involved, helped put together the plan for Airdrie Emergency Services to upgrade from one to tw o 24-hour s taffed emergency halls.“I like knowing the community I live in is well-cared for, that’s part of my job.” Like most newlyweds Stacey and Jason are looking ahead and planning a f amily. In a year or two, they’ll be ready to start exploring their next housing option around Airdrie. Stacey is interested in some of the newest subdivisions and Jason is pleased there are so many reputable builders in the community. “There are so man y housing options in Airdrie, even in the more established areas, you can find lots of potential with an older home with a la rge mature yard. There are plenty of choices and I find the house prices are very favorable out here.” “I’d like to stay in Airdrie and raise a family,” says Stacey,“We both love our jobs, and I’ve heard good things about the schools. This is a great family community.”

fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

working

Economic Growth The City of Airdrie Economic Development Department works to attract and retain economic and business growth that will increase services and employment in Airdrie. The recognized benefits of locating in Airdrie have attracted some of Canada’s leading manufacturers, processors and di stributors. The industries in Airdrie range from electronic production, food processing, oil and gas fab rication, to waste management and furniture manufacturing. Some well-known companies such as Palliser Furniture, Western RV, ADESA, Westman Steel and Condillo Foods have established new businesses in Airdrie. These companies and others have decided to lo cate in Airdrie for the following reasons:

minutes away from downtown Calgary, 10 minutes away from an international airport and 20 minutes away from major educational facilities.

Workforce Advantages Airdrie is located on the doorstep of the City of Calgary, which has one of the highest educated work forces in Canada. This close proximity to Calgar y allows businesses to have access to a large labour force in Calgary. Approximately 60 per cent of the Airdrie population works within Airdrie. The population tends to be well-educated with a high number of residents holding a tr ade certificate, diploma or degree.

High Technology For those bus inesses with a n eed to u tilize high technology, the City of Airdrie offers a fiber optic line. Airdrie also has ac cess to a large volume of knowledge-based professionals. Customer Service Advantage Top quality customer care is a p riority at the City of Airdrie corporate offices. Development Permit and Building Permit applications are generally processed within a six to eight week period.The Economic Development department at the City ensures that questions are answered as quickly as possible.

The average household income is $70,520 with a dis posable income of $54,113 per household. The Airdrie workforce is active in all areas of industry with the major areas being retail, manufacturing, transportation, business services and health care.

T Y P E O F O C C U PAT I O N B Y I N D U S T R Y ( 2 0 0 3 )

Financial Advantages Airdrie has c ompetitively priced industrial and commercial land. The combination of no business tax an d no provincial sales tax results in substantial savings for any business locating in the City of Airdrie.

TYPE OF OCCUPATION / NUMBER % OF TOTAL INDUSTRY Wholesale / Retail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,282 . . . . . . . . .7.82 Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .601 . . . . . . . . .3.67 Finance / Insurance / Real Estate . . . . . . . . .607 . . . . . . . . .3.70 Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .611 . . . . . . . . .3.73 Health / Social . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .876 . . . . . . . . .5.35 Business / Professional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,143 . . . . . . . . .6.98 Community / Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .278 . . . . . . . . .1.70 Accommodation / Food & Beverage . . . . . . .618 . . . . . . . . .3.77 Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,121 . . . . . . . . .6.84 Communication / Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . .491 . . . . . . . . .3.00 Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,143 . . . . . . . . .6.98 Petroleum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,013 . . . . . . . . .6.18 Manufacturing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .804 . . . . . . . . .4.91 Agriculture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201 . . . . . . . . .1.23 Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,346 . . . . . . . . .8.27 No Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,242 . . . . . . . .25.89 TOTAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16,387 . . . . . . .100.00

Location Advantages A unique geo graphical advantage places Airdrie immediately adjacent to Highway #2 on the Calgary/Edmonton Corridor, which links the th ree major cities of Calgary, Edmonton and Red Deer. This results in over 20 million vehicles a y ear passing through Airdrie.

MAJOR EMPLOYERS

The Calgary – Edmonton corridor has been recognized as being one of the richest corridors in North America while still obtaining quality of life.

COMPANIES IN AIRDRIE Alberta Agriculture & Regional Canada Safeway . . . . . . . . . Carlton Furniture . . . . . . . . . City of Airdrie . . . . . . . . . . . Condillo Foods . . . . . . . . . . Co-op . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cutler Hammer . . . . . . . . . . Extra Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . Money’s Mushrooms . . . . . . Palliser Furniture . . . . . . . .

Centre ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... .....

. . . . . . . . . .

Highway #2 also c onnects Airdrie to the United States border, which is approximately 360 kilometres from Airdrie. Airdrie is 20

Propak Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rocky View School Division . . . . . . Totem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trans Canada Pipelines . . . . . . . . . .

. . . .

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS .Animal, agriculture, irrigation .Grocery outlet .Furniture manufacturer .Municipal Government .Food processing .Grocery outlet .Manufacturer, electrical component .Grocery Outlet .Mushroom marketing and distribution .Manufacturer, leather/ upholstered furniture .Energy processing .Teachers and support staff .Hardware and supplies outlet .Service center for natural gas pipelines

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

business

Business and Retail The number of licensed businesses in Airdrie now exceeds 900. Services include three major grocery stores, an enclosed mall and several strip malls. Downtown Airdrie is currently enjoying a r ejuvenation as n ew businesses are opening to provide a variety of services and products. Several new commercial centers are in the c onstruction phase and will provide residents with even more choices and location convenience. Airdrie also o ffers complete banking, medical, accounting, real estate and insurance services to meet the needs of both residents and businesses. Chamber of Commerce Airdrie has an active Chamber of Commerce and the m embership is g rowing at a steady rate. The Chamber of Commerce and the

City of Airdrie have a c lose working relationship insuring the n eeds of the business community are heard and/or met. For more information on the Chamb er of Commerce, phone 948-4412.

Financial Institutions Bank of Nova Scotia Royal Bank of Canada Treasury Branch of Alberta Bow Valley Credit Union Toronto Dominion Bank

Retail and Business/ Personal Services Towerlane Mall Mainstreet Square East Airdrie Plaza Airdrie Plaza One Summerhill Plaza Edmonton Trail Mall Village Square Plaza Big Springs Plaza Airdrie Professional Centre Yankee Valley Crossing Luxstone (Opening 2005) Silver Creek Shopping Centre

fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

The show homes in Cooper’s Crossing and Bayside have so many fabulous features it was hard to just show a few. Clockwise from top right: Beattie Homes (Cooper’s Crossing) raises the roof with style in the great room. Cordwell Homes (Bayside) opens up with metropolitan touches. The Waverly Home (Bayside) features handmade stain glass windows. McKee Homes (Cooper’s Crossing) shows how ingenuity can give you more storage and style in the kitchen.

It’s in the details.

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

style

by Robin Popowich oday’s style savvy homeowners have become increasingly aware of what designers have emphasized for decades; good design starts from the floor up. As a result, the demand for more options in flooring choices translates into a high interest in distinctive floors with “wow” factor. Consistent with a larger design trend labeled ‘Global Fusion,’ in which materials and furnishings from other cultures influence our interiors, and are melded with other styles into a unifying décor and thus, the biggest trend yet to hit the design industry.

Hardwood is back and it’s not your mother’s hardwood. Today’s hardwood flooring is sophisticated and unique. Knots and mineral streaks add c haracter while exotic lesserknown species are gaining attention. Hand carved wide plank styles offer an affordable and practical solution to our ha rdwearing lifestyles; daily wear and tear add to the beauty of the floor, relieving some of the angst involved in combining a wood floor with kids and dogs. Dark stains are popular for their “old world” elegance and flair.

While laminate flooring’s popularity can b e attributed to e ase of maintenance and durability, exotic and rare hardwood floors are also more affordable with look alike laminates.Authenticity is now improved with picture matching textures. Tile laminates are also all the r age. Easier on the b ody and pocketbook, tile look laminates can b e installed anywhere to achieve any look desired, from organic slates to art deco marbles. Vinyl flooring is enjoying a come back due to the many “fool the ey e” styles available. Crocodile skin, leather, linen, and canvas are just some of the unusual choices available today. Rich, feel good textures combined with Teflon technology provides a d urable surface and ease of maintenance never before available.

carpeting a more practical option for today’s busy lifestyles. Renewable resource natural flooring is being chosen more and more by today’s eco-friendly homeowner. Cork can be harvested without damaging the tr ee. The resulting product offers an ex otic look and is d urable, warm and soft. Bamboo flooring matures in under five years,its stability and durability are desirable as well as i ts look; the natural color of bamboo allows it to be introduced to interiors with existing hardwood flooring.

Glamour and luxury are what’s now in carpeting. Texture and pattern offer sophisticated visual dimension and subtle architectural character to an y interior. Durability combined with the softness of wool and improved stain protections make wall to wall

fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

educating

Airdrie has an excellent secondary educational system that currently caters to more than 3,500 s tudents. Elementary, junior high, senior high, private school, Catholic school and French Immersion classes are available. The public schools are part of the Rocky View School Division #4, headquartered in Calgary (telephone: 403-291-6313). The separate school is part of the Calgary Roman Catholic Separate School Division #1, headquartered in Calgary (telephone: 403-298-1383).

AirdrieLIFE is…

welcoming

icky McClain has b een welcoming new residents to Airdrie for fifteen years.That’s a lot of door knocking and as she laughingly puts it,“moving van chasing.”

Vicki has the privilege of being invited into the new homes of those newest to the community and she takes it very seriously, providing newcomers with a basketful of information and goodies to help start their new life. DAYCARE/NURSERY • Airdrie Daycare Centre • Airdrie Family Services • Kidsland Pre-School • Airdrie Nursery School • Christian Playschool • East Lake Little People’s Playschool • Fuzzy Pickles Playschool PUBLIC • Public schools in Airdrie include • A.E. Bowers (K-4) • Ecole Airdrie Middle (5-8) • Ecole Edwards (K-4) • R.J. Hawkey (K-4) • Ralph McCall (K-8) • Muriel Clayton Middle (4-8) • Rocky View Virtual School (9-12) • Meadowbrook Middle (5-8) • Bert Church High (9-12) • George McDougall High (9-12) SEPARATE • Our Lady Queen of Peace School (K-12) • St. Martin de Porres (7-12) PRIVATE • Airdrie Koinonia Christian School (K-8) • Other Education Facilities in Airdrie • Academy of Learning • Bow Valley College • Rockyview Adult Education • Sylvan Learning Center POST SECONDARY EDUCATION Alberta Vocational College (AVC) operates a campus in Airdrie offering academic upgrading on both a full-time and part-time basis; English as a Second Language; career/employment programs; and, continuing education. AVC is a member of Alberta’s educational teleconference network and delivers programs via telephone to rural areas. Computer and small business training have recently been added to the curriculum. ALBERTA CAREER COLLEGE FOR DISTANCE LEARNING The closest post-secondary educational institutions are in Calgary, including Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), Mount Royal College, the University of Calgary, and Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD).

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

Back when Vicky started knocking on new doors, her gift basket was “tiny” and the calls were a simple part-time job to juggle with school age kids. Today Vicky oversees two other Welcome Wagon Hostesses and works the job full-time. This year Airdrie Welcome Wagon will visit over 1000 homes. Welcome Wagon also p rovides new baby visits and hosts the Welcome Wagon Bridal Shower. Local businesses have contributed to the s uccess of this venture and it has become a real win-win situation. Local businesses get great exposure to a new audience in a very relaxed setting. New residents get vital information and valuable coupons and free gifts in exchange. Over the years, Vicky has had many of her visits become referrals.“I get calls from people I visited five, even ten years ago to tell me there is a new family in the neighbourhood,” she says. She also relies on local businesses for referrals as they let n ew employees, who are new to the c ommunity, know about the Welcome Wagon service. The reaction from new residents is overwhelmingly positive and it’s not hard to see why. Vicky’s basket is o verflowing with city guides, maps, clubs and organization details, coupons for services, and gift certificates to try out local businesses like free dry cleaning, and free pizzas, plus handy fridge magnets, pens and other goodies and gadgets. There are over thirty businesses represented in Vicky’s Welcome Wagon basket. Vicky loves the community spirit that Airdrie exudes and she says she knows first hand why Airdrie continues to grow but not lose its sense of community. “I find that we are retaining that community spirit as we grow because the people I am meeting want to get to k now their community, want to know their neighbours, want to b e involved and that keeps the s mall town atmosphere intact.” She says new residents are constantly telling her about how quickly they met their next-door neighbours and how friendly people are. She’s not surprised, because Vicki knows Airdrie is very welcoming. If Vicky has not visited you and you’ve just moved to town, give her a call a t 948 –7827.

communityPROFILES

We’re glad you found Airdrie…

now find the right home

By now you’ve discovered that Airdrie has a lot to offer you and your family. Narrowing down the choices can be overwhelming but here is a little advice from the Calgary Real Estate Board: single most important factor in choosing a types of living units. The detached structure Preparing for your Search - Your home. Location affects your day-to-day living permits you greater freedom (less Needs and Wants A Realtor® can help you search through the and is one of the most significant influences restrictions) on remodeling, expanding, houses on the ma rket, but you can na rrow on value. Your choice of location may be painting, and altering the appearances of the limited somewhat by the p rice you can structure. On the other hand, a condominium the search by considering these steps afford. Even so, make sure you consider such may be a m ore appropriate choice for you, things as: with an emphasis on maintenance-free living. Make a list • Distance to work, schools, shopping, Make a list of your needs and wants. Do you and entertainment, need an extr a bathroom, a garage, a fenced Size and style Consider size and style.You may already have backyard, or lower utility bills? Do you want in mind a contemporary home with a sun • Proposed changes in land use such as a fireplace, a short drive to work, or maybe commercial shopping centres and new deck or a tw o-storey Victorian-style with a minimal yard work? Once your list is c omcozy study. Or maybe you won’t know what plete, review it and decide w hat is m ost roads, and potential problems such as noise from a nearby airport or roadway. you want or like until you see it. Whatever important to y our lifestyle. Decide which the case, your Realtor will listen to y our items are “musts” and what you are willing to give up. preferences and help find the righ t home Type of home and lot A single-family detached home is a ttractive for you. to many people because it typically provides Location Deciding where you want to live may be the more living space and land area than o ther

fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

on the move

CITY ADMINISTRATION AND GOVERNMENT Airdrie City council consists of a Mayor and six councilors that are elected for a three-year term. Council meetings are on the first and third Monday of every month. Council has a number of Boards, Committees and C ommissions that report to and advise them o n matters specific to thei r areas. These boards include: Planning Commission, Police Committee, Library Board, Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, Social Planning Board, Airdrie Regional Recreational Enhancement Society (ARRES), Regional Recreation Board, Environment Advisory Board, Finance Committee, Twinning Committee, Aquatic Advisory Board, and the Assessment Review Board.

Cruising around Airdrie is very easy even if you don’t’ have access to your own vehicle.The City of Airdrie provides public transportation within the c ommunity to all r esidents through the D ial-A-Bus service. If you call 948-9101, 45 minutes before your ride time, you will be picked up at the stop closest to your location.The Dial-A-Bus has a cap acity of 22 passengers and will accommodate those w ith special needs. The Dial-A-Bus hours o f operation are Monday – Friday 6:45 a.m.until 10:00 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 a.m.– 10:00 p.m.

City Council and Administration believe in and continue to strive for excellence in customer service, continuous improvement of programs and an environment of adaptability and continuous learning. For more information on Council’s boards, committees and commissions, please contact the City Clerk department at 948-8816.

Special Needs Transit The Special Needs Transit system is a door-to-door service for those with special needs. Trips must be booked by 5:00 p.m. the day prior to the p ick-up date. Special Needs Transit service to Cal gary is a door-to-door service which is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00 am to 4:30 pm.The purpose of the trips is limited to medical appointments, employment and skill development training. Patrons of either service must have a Special Needs Eligibility Card; applications are available online or by calling the City of Airdrie at 948-8800.

MISSION STATEMENT Building for the future on our foundations of quality of life, economic diversity and a vib rant sense o f community. VISION Airdrie will be known as a saf e, friendly and caring city. Our diverse community will still be the ‘best place to raise a family’. Residents will be even prouder of their vibrant community spirit and their commitment to pull to gether to mak e things happen! F oresight and effective development planning will ensure quality housing choices, parks and leisure amenities, and expanding business and local business opportunities. Airdrie will be’ technology friendly’ – capitalizing on the opportunities of the information age. THE CITY OF AIRDRIE 400 Main Street Airdrie, Alberta, Canada T4B 3C3 Phone: 948-8800 Fax : 948-6567 Home Page : www.airdrie.ca E-mail : economic.development@airdrie.ca 36 AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

A look at how easy is get to, from and around Airdrie.

Airdrie – Calgary Commuter Service Live in Airdrie – work in Calgary? No problem! Cardinal Coach Lines provides a commuter service to and from Calgary for Airdrie residents who work in Calgary. The Cardinal Airdrie Commuter Service has 57 lo cation stops in Airdrie that begin each workday at 6:20 a.m. and drops off commuters at 11 lo cations in downtown Calgary. For more information contact Cardinal at 531-3940. Other transportation contacts: Your Way Coachlines 948-9881 Rockyview Regional Handibus 948-2887 Able Taxi 948-5353 Airdrie Taxi 948-9565 Avacab Taxis Ltd. 948-0055 Greyhound Bus Lines 948-3838 Airports The Calgary International Airport is located just 15 minutes from Airdrie. The airport links Airdrie with economic centers throughout the world with non-stop destinations to ma jor Canadian an d international cities. A I R D R I E FAC TS

39.67 per cent of the population over 15 years old work in Calgary or attend a post- secondary institution in Calgary.

Calculate your COSTS

How much can you

afford?

INCOME, HOME PRICE AND DOWN PAYMENT GUIDE HOUSEHOLD INCOME $25,000 $30,000 $35,000 $40,000 $45,000 $50,000 $60,000 $70,000 $80,000 $90,000 $100,000

5 % DOWN PAYMENT $3,000 $3,900 $4,800 $5,700 $6,600 $7,500 $9,300 $11,050 $12,500 $12,500 $12,500

MAXIMUM 10 % DOWN HOME PRICE PAYMENT $60,000 $6,300 $78,000 $8,200 $96,000 $10,100 $114,000 $12,000 $132,000 $13,900 $150,000 $15,800 $186,000 $19,600 $221,000 $23,400 $250,000 $27,200 $250,000 $31,000 $250,000 $34,800

MAXIMUM HOME PRICE $63,000 $82,000 $101,000 $120,000 $139,000 $158,000 $196,000 $234,000 $272,000 $310,000 $348,000

25 % DOWN PAYMENT $18,900 $24,700 $30,300 $36,000 $41,700 $47,400 $58,800 $70,100 $81,500 $92,800 $104,300

MAXIMUM HOME PRICE $75,600 $98,800 $121,200 $144,000 $166,800 $189,600 $235,200 $280,400 $326,000 $371,200 $417,200

Figures are rounded to the nearest $100. This table gives you an idea of the maximum home price you can afford. These estimates take into account household income and the percentage down payment you have. They assume a mortgage interest rate of eight per cent, average tax and heating costs in Canada, and the mortgage an average Canadian would qualify for based on a 32 per cent debt service ratio. Please note that for loans greater than 90 per cent of the value of the home, a maximum house price of up to $250,000 may apply, based upon the price levels in your community. Contact your lender for the maximum price in your area.

The shortest and best answer to that question is: it depends — on a number of factors. The most important are your gross household income, your down payment and the mortgage interest rate. Lenders also consider your assets and liabilities. Your own lifestyle and debt comfort zone also come into play. If you understand these variables, you can examine all your options. You can make the best choice for you and even save money.

comfortably below the maximums prescribed above. The lower your debt load, the more affordable your home and lifestyle will be.

Lenders follow these two simple rules t o determine how much you can afford in monthly housing costs: The first affordability rule is that your monthly housing costs shouldn’t be more than 32 p er cent of your gross monthly income. Housing costs include monthly mortgage principal and interest, taxes and heating expenses… known as P.I.T.H. for short. If applicable, this sum also includes half of monthly condominium fees and all of the annual site lease in the case of leasehold tenure.

Let us show you how we are making banking more comfortable.

Lenders add u p these housing costs to determi ne what percentage they are of your gross monthly income. This figure is y our Gross Debt Service (GDS) ratio. The second affordability rule is that your entire monthly debt load shouldn’t be more than 40 p er cent of your gross monthly income. This includes housing costs and other debts such as ca r loans an d credit card payments. Lenders add up these debts to determine what percentage they are of your gross monthly income.This figure is your Total Debt Service (TDS) ratio. Based on these ratios, lenders will advise you of the maximum home price they think you can afford. Keep in mind that most homebuyers today keep their debt ratios

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE CANADIAN MORTGAGE AND HOUSING CORPORATION

We’re open longer to serve you better.

Ask about our full range of financial solutions. Also, our EasySwitch™ service makes it easy and hassle-free to open a new chequing or savings account and transfer your account balance and/or pre-authorized payments and deposits from another financial institution to our TD Canada Trust branch. Visit us at – Towerlane Mall 505 Main St., Airdrie (403) 948-5974 Monday to Wednesday Thursday & Friday Saturday www.tdcanadatrust.com

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

™ Trade-mark of Canada Trustco Mortgage Company.

fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING WASTE MANAGEMENT The City of Airdrie operates its waste collection under a “User Pay” system. This stems from increasing costs of depositing waste in landfill sites. While this cost is generally hidden in tax bills, Airdrie made the decision to isolate the expenditures as a separate utility. Currently the City has a two unit limit. One unit is the equivalent of 100 litres. The conventional galvanized garbage can ho lds 77 litres. Any additional bags must be tagged with a sticker that can be purchased from the C ity offices, Public Works building and the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre for $1.00 each. Airdrie has one of Alberta’s leading recycling depots that provides residents with an alternative in waste management. The Airdrie Recycling Depot helps keep the cost of waste disposal low, but also encourages waste reduction resulting in a cleaner and greener environment. For those occasions when an accumulation of large items need to be disposed, Airdrie residents have the option of taking them to the waste transfer station located just eight kilometres west of the city. The City of Airdrie Recycling Depot takes virtually all clean recyclable materials. Bins are on-site accepting clothing and textiles for the Salvation Army.

AirdrieLIFE is…

enviromentally friendly RECYCLE DEPOT HOLIDAY HOURS: Friday Dec 24 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday Dec 25 CLOSED Sunday Dec 26 CLOSED Monday Dec 27 CLOSED Tuesday Dec 28 * 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday Dec 29 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday Dec 30 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday Dec 31 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday Jan 1 CLOSED Sunday Jan 2 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

* Days are open in lieu of being closed due to statutory holidays.

Regular hours begin on Jan 8, 2005 Christmas wrapping paper is to be deposited in the COLOURED PAPER BIN.

TRANSFER SITE HOLIDAY HOURS: Saturday Dec 18 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday Dec 25 CLOSED Saturday Jan 1 CLOSED Sunday Jan 2 *12:30 to 4:30 pm Saturday Jan 8 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

* Days are open in lieu of being closed due to statutory holidays.

Other recycling initiatives include: • Pitch in week provides Airdrie residents with an opportunity to clean up litter from their yards and around the neighborhood. • Toxic Round-Up allows residents to dispose of household hazardous waste. • Great Drug Round-Up provides the opportunity to dispose of old medications and unused drugs. • The Paint Exchange – good quality paint is accepted for reuse and is free for the taking. • Christmas Tree Recycling – trees are recycled into wood chips and deposited into the City’s parks. Additional information on recycling can b e obtained by either stopping by the Waste Management Education Centre located at 15 East Lake Hill; by calling the Eco-Info Line at 948-0246. October 1st to April 30th RECYCLING DEPOT HOURS Wednesday Thursday to Sunday

9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Regular hours begin on Jan 8, 2005 CHRISTMAS TREE CHIPPING The Recycling Depot will be accepting your Christmas Trees from DECEMBER 29th until JANUARY 22nd. Please ensure trees are free of all tinsel, ornaments, metal wire and stands. Trees are chipped and used for landscaping in City Parks. CHRISTMAS GARBAGE COLLECTION Garbage collection is not affected over the holidays. TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY Airdrie Meadows Edgewater Jensen Old Town Ridgegate Summerhill Sunridge Waterstone

Big Springs Meadowbrook Thorburn

Bayside Canals Coopers Crossing Luxstone Sagewood

Fairways Silver Creek Stonegate Willow Brook Woodside

Garbage must be out by 7:00 a.m. for pick-up! TRANSFER SITE HOURS Saturday

9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

The TAKE IT OR LEAVE will NOT be accepting bikes, BBQ’s, desks, tables, baby items or any large furniture for the winter.

PAINT EXCHANGE AND COMPOSTING PROGRAM The paint exchange and community composting programs are closed for the w inter. Please retain paint until the commencement of spring programs in May 2005. SIDEWALK SNOW REMOVAL It is that time of year again when snow makes sidewalks difficult to n egotiate for any pedestrians. Bylaw 910 states that all persons within the city shall have removed any snow from any sidewalk adjoining the p roperty owned or occupied by them within 48 hours of the time the snow was deposited. Should the snow not be removed, the City may clear the sidewalk and the c ost shall be charged against the property as a s pecial assessment. No person shall remove snow from any sidewalk or driveway by causing such material to be placed upon any other portion of the highway or other public place adjacent to such property. Enjoy a safe walk. SNOW PLOWING AND REMOVAL Downtown Core / Main Arterials Collectors In the downtown core, main arterials, and collectors, snow removal may be required because of limited storage space and high vehicle volumes. In this case, these areas would also b e considered an e arly morning priority because of the traffic volume later in the day. It is permissible to wind row snow to the centre of the roadway for storage. This would require removal only when the roadway width is impeded. Local Roads Plowing will commence on local roads as soon as equipment is available from clearing arterials and collectors. The snow will be plowed to the parking lanes on both sides of the street. Hauling would not commence unless the street driving lanes are determined impassible. Pathway snow removal Pathway snow removal is a P arks Winter Operations first priority. Snow is r emoved from all City responsible sidewalks and pathways. These include all C ity facilities, the Library, the East Lake Recreation and

Wellness Centre and the R .C.M.P. station. First in order of our priority are schools, then city sidewalks and pathways, boarded and snowbank outdoor rinks and the Creek and Lake. City sidewalks include Main Street, East Lake Boulevard, and the P edestrian Walkway Overpass. Next come Big Springs, Meadowbrook, Thorburn, Airdrie Meadows, Edgewater, Summerhill, Waterstone, Old Airdrie, Woodside, and the Canals. Depending on the snow conditions and the amount of snowfall, they should all be cleared within 48 hours. If you notice a sidewalk, which may have been overlooked or has drifted in after it has b een cleared, please call the C ity Parks Department. Please note that sidewalk snow removal is the responsibility of registered property owner. Walkways that run through parks are cleared if it can be proven that they are a major transportation route and no concrete sidewalks are available.

OUTDOOR RINKS The City of Airdrie Parks Unit floods outdoor rinks as soon as weather temperatures co-operate. Generally it needs to b e a constant -10 ºC to s uccessfully flood the outdoor rinks. The City offers three snow bank rinks for citizens to use: • Fletcher Park, • Plainsman Arena, • Town and Country Centre Park. We also have three boarded rinks located at: • East Lake Park (beside the Scout Hall), • Plainsman Arena • Big Springs Cres SE (in the green space) We also clear skating surfaces on Nose Creek Pond, Summerhill, Waterstone and East Lake. The Parks Unit maintains all the outdoor rinks on a dail y basis, weather permitting. Nose Creek and East Lake are maintained on a weekly basis.

fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING AIRDRIE EMERGENCY SERVICES (AES) Airdrie Emergency Services (AES) is a i ntegrated fire and emergency medical service with a full ti me staff compliment of a Chief, an Assistant Chief, a Business Services Coordinator, one Fire Training Officer, one Medical Training Officer and an Administrative Assistant. In addition, AES consists of 20 Paramedic/EMT Fire Fighters and approximately 70 cas ual EMR/EMT/Paramedic/ Firefighters responding from two facilities. The City Of Airdrie has e stablished Advanced Life Support (ALS) as the level of emergency medical care that will be provided. A team typically consists of one Paramedic and one Emergency Medical Technician. ALS teams are available from either station 24 hours a day, seven days per week.

AirdrieLIFE is…

protected

FIRE SERVICES Fire services provide fire protection to approximately 24,860 ( July 2003 census) Airdrie residents and 2,000 rural residents covering approximately 550 square kilometres. Airdrie Emergency Services also provide fire services via contract to the Municipal District of Rocky View and mutual aid to four neighboring volunteer departments; Cochrane, Crossfield, Beiseker and Irricana, as well as Calgary. These First Response units are also medically equipped to a BLS (Basic Life Support) level.

MEDICAL SERVICES Medical services are provided to approximately 24,860 ( July 2003 census) Airdrie residents and 6,000 rural residents including the Town of Crossfield, Village of Beiseker, Irricana and the Municipal District of Rocky View.This service area covers approximately 720 square kilometres. Residents from all areas access fire and medical service via 911 dispatched through Calgary Fire Department and Calgary Emergency Medical Services. AES provides the following services: • Advanced Life Support and Ambulances • Fire Suppression • Rescue • Fire Prevention • Fire Inspections and Investigations (residential and business) • Public Education • Dangerous Goods Incident Responses AES can be contacted by dialing 911. Your call is ans wered by a professional 911 o perator who will transfer your call to ei ther Ambulance, Fire or Police. Your call is then handled by a professional call taker/dispatcher who will ask you several questions to determine your emergency. While this person is asking questions, the appropriate response team has al ready been alerted. The responding crew receives updates from the call taker while they are responding. Headquarters for Airdrie Emergency Services is lo cated at 805 main Street in Airdrie. There is also a second station located at 819 East Lake Blvd on the East side of Airdrie. AES is staffed with 20 full time members who have both medical and fire training. This group is supported by paid on-call fire fighters who are also medically trained. AES will respond to approximately 2400 medical calls and 625 fire calls within the City of Airdrie and surrounding response area. AES responds to a wide variety of emergency calls including heart

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

AirdrieLIFE

is connected!

Residents in Airdrie enjoy access to the world thanks to local, regional and national print publications, regional and national television and regional r adio stations. From the daily paper on your doorstep to the specialty cable channels and everything in between, you can be as connected as you want to be.

attacks, chest pain, shortness of breath, asthma, diabetes, brush fires, structure fires, automobile collisions, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and hazardous material incidents. Inspections are conducted for Fire Code compliance and thousands of hours each year are spent educating the community in fire safety and fire prevention techniques.

Airdrie ambulances are stocked with equipment that brings the emer gency room to your home. AES is able to treat most medical emergencies and administer medications that can r elieve your symptoms, treat your problem or in some cases, save your life. AES teams are among the highest trained in North America.

Airdrie Emergency Services is a c ombined fire, rescue and Advanced Life Support ambulance service serving the C ity of Airdrie and surrounding municipalities. The population base is ap proximately 20,000 within a service area of 1,000 square kilometers.

AMBULANCE RATES Unfortunately, ambulance services are not covered by Alberta Health Care or by Alberta Health and costs must be borne by individuals and/or private insurance. The current rates for Advanced Life Support ambulance are $225.00 p lus $2.60 p er kilometre.

PARAMEDIC AMBULANCE City ambulances are staffed with at least one paramedic and an E mergency Medical Technician (EMT). These highly trained professional medical teams are able to respond in minutes to your emergency.

When an ambulance attends a p atient and performs treatment but does not transport the patient to a hos pital, a Treatment/No Transport flat rate of $129.00 plus $2.60 per kilometre is in effect.

LOCAL NEWSPAPERS: Airdrie Echo Airdrie City View Here’s the Scoop

948-7280 948-1885 948-5529

REGIONAL NEWSPAPERS: Calgary Herald Calgary Sun

235-7100 410-1010

NATIONAL NEWSPAPERS: Globe and Mail 1-800-387-5400 The National Post 1-800-387-9011 LOCAL TELEVISION: Airdrie has its own community events channel. Watch Channel 81 for updates on City news , community programs and cultur al and recreational events. Non-profit organizations can advertise their programs or events free of charge by calling the City of Airdrie at 948-8800 (you require basic cable hook up for viewing). CALGARY TELEVISION: CBC A-Channel CALGARY RADIO: Adult Contemporary

Males outnumber females in

Country 105

Jazz

Breeze 103.1

News / Talk

CBR 102.1 CBRF 103.1 CHQR

Rock

9 out of 16 age

groups The median age group in Airdrie is

30 - 34

Jack FM Lite 96

Country

R & B / Hip Hop

A I R D R I E FAC TS

CFCN Global

CJAY 92

Sports Other

Vibe 98.5

66 CFR AM The FAN 960 CJSW Campus Radio 90.9 FM Q -107 Album Rock Shine FM Christian 88.9 FM

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AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING DOG TAGS, NOT JUST FOR THE ARMY ANYMORE! The primary identification for a dog is the tag w orn on its collar. Lost dogs wearing a numbered tag can b e easily traced to their owners and are therefore returned home more quickly. This greatly reduces stress on the ani mal as w ell as the c oncerned owner(s). License applications can be obtained from City Hall at 400 Main Street SE. Currently the fees for these tags are: • $30.00 • $20.00 • $5.00

- Non spay or neuter - Spay or neuter - Replace lost tags

Tags are valid from January 1st thru De cember 31st of each calendar year.

TO LEASH OR NOT TO LEASH? Leashed pets are more easily controlled and are, therefore, less likely to behave aggressively towards passers-by or frighten individuals who may be intimidated by unfamiliar animals. The City of Airdrie amended its animal control bylaw in 1984. All dog owners are now required to maintain control over their pets by means of a leash. The only exception to this rule is when walking in designated off-leash areas or when animals are confined within personal property lines. The off-leash areas are located on both the ww est and east side of the Highway #2 b erm. All other areas of the city require your dog to b e under your control by means of a leash. Please be considerate and always carry a plastic bag for removing pet feces. It is the L aw (Section 401 (3)). A I R D R I E FAC TS

Males outnumber females in all neighbourhoods except Edgewater, Luxstone, Pointe of View, Stonegate, Waterstone, Willowbrook and Woodside.

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

AirdrieLIFE is…

protected

MUNIPAL ENFORCEMENT The Airdrie Enforcement Team consists of four Special Constables, one Co-ordinator and one full-time Administrative Assistant. The Special Constables are responsible for enforcing local legislation and animal control. They also enforce some provincial legislation and minor criminal code offences. All officers are involved with presenting the following educational programs: • Bully Proofing • Animal Safety • Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety • Street Proofing • Conflict Resolution Skills These programs are available to schools and community groups on request. Airdrie Municipal Enforcement has o ne certified mediator on staff. We are available to c o-ordinate or refer disputes, which have strong resolution potential. Referral forms are available by contacting the office at 948-8892 .

cityLIVING R.C.M.P. The Airdrie Royal Canadian Mounted Police Detachment is a unit of members of the R.C.M.P. which consists of twenty-five Peace Officers involved in the policing of three separate and unique y et combined geographical areas. Local support in policing the communities in the a rea are provided to the lo cal police by the community supported programs including Rural Crime Watch, Citizens on Patrol, Auxiliary R.C.M.P. Officers, Neighborhood Watch, Block Parents, School Liaison and an active ongoing Victims Assistance Unit. The duties and responsibilities of the members of the R.C.M.P. within this area are normally relative to cri minal activity and enforcement of the laws of the nation including most federal statutes and specific provincial statutes excluding most civil law, bylaws, animal control and parking infractions. The latter three areas of enforcement are usually performed by Bylaw Enforcement Officers hired by the various levels of local government and responsible for their own specific bylaws and other types of duties. The majority of the Airdrie R.C.M.P. officers are based ou t of a detachment building situated within and owned by the City of Airdrie. Where necessary, members of the various units can and will patrol, respond or assist each other in their duties within the total area or in fact can be called upon to assist other detachments or units of law enforcement anywhere in the P rovince of Alberta or across Canada. In this fashion, there can be patrolling police officers in all areas on a twenty-four hour basis. The three investigative units that are based within Airdrie-Beiseker Detachment are as follows: • Airdrie Municipal R.C.M.P. Detachment • Airdrie Rural R.C.M.P. Detachment • Airdrie R.C.M.P. Highway Patrol

AIRDRIE CRIME STATISTICS actual offences - information provided by the Airdrie RCMP. TYPE

2003

2004 (as of September)

Assaults

128

137

Disturbing the peace

200

133

102

363

256

Theft of motor vehicles

Theft from motor vehicles

104

Break & enters Property Damage Arson

fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

Sagewood interior designers turn up the volume

We loved the fun and funky decorating in Sagewood. It’s easy to tell the interior designers love their job. Here are some of our favorite highlights. Clockwise from top right: it’s a coffee table; it’s extra seating… it’s extra functional in the Beattie show home. Dr. Seuss would love this Reid Built bedroom. Crisp and white is so refreshing in Sabal’s “Ion”. Go bold or go home - striped drapes are impressive in McKee’s Limavady. A sports nut’s favorite wall in the Reid Built home. Martinis for two? Groovy in the Jayman “Echo.” Landmark gets full points for the stainless steel appliances and tile work on the backsplash. Inset: the Landmark office/homework cubby really works a small space.

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is… COMMUNITY CONTACTS AIRDRIE BOWLING CLUB - YOUTH Location: 805 East Lake Blvd, Airdrie, AB Ph: 948-3404 • Fax: 948-4685 A structured program with qualified instruction for youth 3-19 yrs. This program teaches basics as well as advanced instruction. With the opportunity to go to national competitions. AIRDRIE BOWLING CLUB - SENIOR Location: 805 East Lake Blvd, Airdrie, AB Ph: 948-3404 • Fax: 948-4685 A bowling club for Seniors 55+, a fun social outing to spend some time with friends, socialize and get some mild exercise at the same time. AIRDRIE BOWLING CLUB - ADULT Location: 805 East Lake Blvd, Airdrie, AB Ph: 948-3404 • Fax: 948-4685 Bowling a fun social activity. Come join and meet new friends. Adult leagues are available weeknights and a non- smoking league on Sunday. AIRDRIE CURLING CLUB Location: 275 Jensen Drive NE, Airdrie, AB, T4B 2B8 Booking Info: 948-7100 (Gary ) Club/Pro Shop: 948-7100 Concession: 948-0602 A recreational, family and competitive curling club which operates from October to March. Ice rentals are available and a pro-shop is located at the rink. AIRDRIE & DISTRICT SPECIAL OLYMPICS Contact: Sue Couchman Mail: 67 Springwood Cres., Airdrie, AB, T4B 1S7 Ph: 948-7222 Provides recreational and competitive sporting opportunities for Special Needs individuals of all ages.

community minded AIRDRIE DANCE ACADEMY Contact: Susan Laing Location: 291070 Yankee Valley Road Ph: 948-5530 Airdrie Dance Academy offers classes for boys and girls in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Highland, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop and Creative (pre-school). Ages range from four to adult. Tuition fees start at $33 per month. Classes run from September until the end of May. An annual recital at Bert Church Theatre is the final event in the dance season. Web site: www.airdriedance.ca AIRDRIE DRAG RACING TEAM Contact: Harry Svingen Ph: 948-2962 Ed Dyck 948-3074 Rod Havens 948-7214 Mail: 197 Acacia Drive, Airdrie,AB,T4B 1G6 For men and women interested in performance cars, bracket or drag racing. We compete on a 1/4 mile dragstrip. Keep racing off the streets and on the track where it is safe, fun and legal.

AIRDRIE LADIES FASTBALL LEAGUE Mail: P.O. Box 5314, Airdrie, AB, T4B 2T9 Ph: Jordy Robins 267-1991(WK) Linda Raymond 948-4699 Season begins late April and runs through to mid-July every year, for women 18 years plus. We are a recreational A.A.S.A. registered “C” level league, currently with twelve teams. If you’d like to join a team, contact us.

AIRDRIE LITTLE LEAGUE Ph:948-6555 (Info Line - Year Round) Mail:Box 3885,Airdrie,AB,T4B 2B9 Web site: www.airdrielittleleague.com For boys and girls, 5 - 18 years. Little league is devoted to teaching our youth baseball, fair play, team work and how to have fun. We depend on volunteers like yourself to run our league and teach the kids.

AIRDRIE MINOR BASKETBALL Contact: Harvey Neumiller Ph: 948-7514 Web site: www.intouchsystems.net/intouch/amba For boys and girls ages eight and up. Community league with Mini, Bantam, Midget and Juvenile levels of play. Coaches and players who love b-ball wanted! Season runs October to March. AIRDRIE RINGETTE ASSOCIATION Mail:Box 3086,Airdrie,AB,T4B 2B4 For ages five and up. Ringette is a team sport which is played on ice with a straight stick and ring. Our goal is to encourage the physical, mental, social and moral development of individual participants within the high standards of safety, sportsmanship, personal excellence and equipment.Volunteer coaches are required.

AIRDRIE EDGE GYMNASTICS CLUB Location: Twin Arena Complex 200 East Lake Crescent Airdrie, Alberta Ph: 948-7769 Web site: www.airdrieedge.com Recreational or competitive. Gymnastics, trampoline and tumbling. From 18 months and up. A whole lot of flippin’ fun! AIRDRIE JU-JITSU Location: Airdrie, Alberta Ph: 239-9467 • Cell: 607-0621 The Airdrie Ju-jitsu is teaching self-defence techniques on how to defend against a variety of attacks. We are teaching practical and effective self-defence. Affiliated with Alberta Ju-jitsu Association. Ju-jitsu is a martial arts that combines Karate, Aikido, and Judo. Come try a class! fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING CITY OF AIRDRIE #88 ROYAL AIR CADET SQUADRON Contact: Carol Hartwick Cell: 880-3253 Location: We meet Wednesday nights at Cam Clark Ford Dealership, 909 Irricana Road, Airdrie, AB A national program for youth aged 12-19 years old. Take part in challenging activities such as flying, gliding, camping, band and sports while developing leadership, self-confidence and physical fitness. Rewards include summer camps, scholarships, community involvement and new friends.

AIRDRIE RODEO RANCH ASSOCIATION Contact: Clint McLeod or Sylvia Kerr Mail: Box 3663, Airdrie, AB T4B 2B8 Ph: 948-0512 A group of volunteers dedicated to organizing and hosting the Airdrie Pro-Rodeo, the Miss Airdrie Rodeo Pageant and the July 1st Rodeo Parade. AIRDRIE SKATING CLUB Location: Plainsmen Arena Airdrie, AB Ph: 948-7183 We offer nationally recognized programs designed to teach basic skating skills and to provide individuals of all ages with an opportunity for fun, fitness, achievement and a sense of personal satisfaction. Awards and incentives are used to motivate skaters to develop their skills.An excellent start for hockey, ringette and figure skating. AIRDRIE STORM FOOTBALL Ph: 912-0070 Web site: www.eteamz.com/airstorm The storm is committed to developing basic football skills and providing our youth with a fun and safe environment to enjoy the game of football. All skill levels are welcome.

AIRDRIE TAE KWON DO AIRDRIE TAE BOXING ACADEMY OF CHAMPIONS Location: 536 - 2nd Avenue Airdrie, AB T4B 2C2 Ph: 948-5760 Everald Wright, Master Instructor Level #3, 5th Dan Black Belt E-mail: airdrietkdandkb@shaw.ca Learn respect and discipline with Tae Kwon Do. AIRDRIE THUNDER JUNIOR HOCKEY CLUB Mail: 80 Waterstone Cres Airdrie, AB T4B 2E5 Contact: Frank McEvoy, President & General Manager Ph: 948-7511 • Fax: 912-1762 Web site: www.airdriethunder.com Play in the Heritage Junior Hockey League. League Champions 1997-98 and 1999-2000. Silver Medallist Western Canadian Champions 1999-2000. Training camp annually mid-September. COMMUNITY CONTACTS BADMINTON CLUB Contact: Chris Gardner Ph: 948-6642 Location: Meadowbrook School Thursdays 8 - 10 p.m. From September through May, for ages 16 and up.

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

GOSHINDO KARATE / AIRDRIE J.K.A. Location: Airdrie, AB Ph: 239-9467 • Cell: 607-0621 E-mail: dverzotti@shaw.ca The Goshindo Karate Club is teaching Traditional Shotokan Karate. The Chief Instructor, Daniel Verzotti, holds a 3rd degree Black Belt from the Japan Karate Association. Affiliated with Karate Alberta Association, National Karate Association, International Shotokan Karate Association, and Japan Karate Association. Come try a free class! HORIZON TAEKWON-DO Contact: Aron Johnston Ph: 912-6TKD (853) Horizon Taekwon-Do is a family oriented club offering classes Mon-Thur. Ages seven and up. Learn self defense, goal setting, confidence and discipline while having fun! Come try us out for free. IMESON HIGHLAND DANCERS Head Instructor: Jessica Imeson Address: 16 C East Lake Green Airdrie, AB T4A 2J2 Ph: 912-0726 • Fax: 912-1570 Cell: 701-0726 E-mail: jessicai@pfscalgary.com Looking for something different, athletic, educational, traditional, FUN? Come dance to the tune of the bagpipes! Recreational to championship training. Member of SDTA, Highland & National member / SDC member / CHDA member. Tiny Tots four -five years old. Beginners & advanced six years old and up. Private lessons available. Fully qualified instruction.

KENSHO KARATE CLUB Head Instructor: Ian Scully Address: 16 C East Lake Green Airdrie, AB T4A 2J2 Ph: 912-1903 E-mail: kensho@shaw.ca Web site: www.members.shaw.ca/kensho Traditional Shotokan Karate with certified black belt instruction. Affiliated with Karate Alberta (A.K.A.)and the Japanese Karate Association of Calgary ( J.K.A.). Training year round 3x’s a week in our own facilities. Five year olds and up, recreational to competitive. NOSE CREEK SWIM ASSOCIATION (Airdrie Competitive Swim Club) Mail: NCSA, Beddington Postal Outlet, Box 51002, Calgary,Alberta T3K 3V9 Ph: 208-5353 • Fax: 208-5355 Web site: http://members.shaw.ca/ncsaswim/ The goal of the Nose Creek Swim Association is to promote and support a highly competitive swim program, as well as encourage a recreational swim component. NCSA is committed to providing a superior coaching staff accessible to all levels of swimming ability. STAR BATON & DANCE COMPANY Location: Airdrie Wellness and Recreation Centre Ph: 948-9999 Contact: Mandy Yip E-mail: mandy@starbaton.com Web site: www.starbaton.com STAR Baton and Dance Company has programs for all levels of baton twirlers and dancers. We currently have a membership of approximately 225 students and growing. To get more information on twirling and dance programs visit our Web site. There is also a video of baton twirling on the pictures page of the Web site if you wish to see what that is all about.

Did we miss you? If you would like your community group listed in the spring issue of AirdrieLIFE email us at airdrielife@shaw.ca

cityLIVING Airdrie Employment Services 948-9711 • 948-9715 Human Resources and Employment (Income Support) 297-1953 • 297-8639 Airdrie Public Library 948-0600 • 912-4002 www.airdriepubliclibrary.ca

HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES AADAC Alberta Alcohol & Drug Abuse Commission 912-3306 www.aadac.com/index_flash.htm Airdrie Food Bank 912-8500 • 912-8502 Airdrie Mental Health 948-3878 www.calgaryhealthregion.ca/mh/ai rdrie.htm Bow Valley College 948-6556 www.bowvalleycollege.ca/prospective_students/rural_airdrie.htm Meals On Wheels 948-6625 • 912-8502 Airdrie & District Victims Assistance 948-3220 • 948-6154 Airdrie and District Youth Justice Committee 948-7110 • 297-4501 Bethany Care Centre - Airdrie 948-6022 • 948-3897 www.bethanycare.com

Boys & Girls Club of Airdrie 948-3331 • 948-5132 www.abgc.8m.com Airdrie Family Services Society 912-8451 • 912-8452 www.airdriefamilyservices.ca Block Parents Association 948-0118 • 948-6184 Closer To Home 948-9776 • 948-9774 R. J. Hawkey Breakfast Program 948-3939 • 948-3941 www.rockyview.ab.ca/rjhawkey Canadian Red Cross Society 541-4436 • 541-6129 Calgary and Area Child and Family Services Authority 912-4758 www.calgaryandareacfsa.gov.ab.ca

Airdrie Regional Health Centre Location: 604 Main Street, S. Airdrie Ph: 912-8400 Early Start Ph: 244-8351 Health Link Ph: 943-5465 Manager’s Name: Sandy Phillips Business Days / Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm Alternate Tuesday Evenings by appointment only Programs, Services and Clinics Offered at the Centre: Well Child (Vaccinations) by appointment: 912-8400 Baby & You: 912-8400 School Health: 912-8400 New Baby Visits - Best Beginnings: 912-8400 Adult Wellness: 912-8400 Seniors Wellness: 912-8400 Home Care: 912-8431 Adult Day Support Program: 912-8431 Audiology: 235-0359 Speech / Language Pathology: 912-8400 Oral Health / Dental: 912-8400 Environmental Health: 943-8060 Alberta Aids to Daily Living: 912-8431

North Rocky View Community Resource Centre 948-0263 • 948-0226 www.yourcrc.com

Airdrie Alliance Church 1604 Summerfield Blvd. 948-3818 www.airdriealliance.com Airdrie Victory Church 308-1 Avenue SE • 948- 8774 Bahai Faith 948-3504 or 948-6072 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 1504 Main Street 948-0387 or 948-0394 Faith Community Baptist Church 2104 Big Hill Springs Road 948-6727 or 948-5663 Grace Baptist Church 1009 East Lake Blvd. • 948-3821 Jehovah’s Witness 1128 Thornburn Drive • 948-4430 Living Springs Christian Fellowship Big Springs Road & 16th Street SW 948-7724 Lutheran Church of the Master 216 Main Street South • 948-3567 Seventh Day Adventist Church 212 1 Avenue NE 247-0792 or 946-5407 St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church 132 Albert Street • 948-2940 St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church 1305 Main Street • 948-5394 United Church of Canada 212 1 Avenue NE • 948-5527 Waterbrook Community Church 130 Albert Street • 948-0388

St. Johns’ Ambulance 948-6977

Coming this winter

AIRDRIE CHURCHES

AirdrieWORKS

A business-to-business guide to launching and working successful businesses in Airdrie, Alberta Meet Airdrie businesses who have made their mark in the community. With facts and figures provided by Airdrie Economic Development.

To advertise your business call Kathy Anderson 266-7154 or email knanders@shaw.ca fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

WHAT IS AirdrieLIFE TO YOU? Airdrie is becoming so many things to so many people and we’d like to hear what you have to say in words or pictures!

Enter the

AirdrieLIFE is…

Photo & Essay Contest PHOTOS

Snap those images of your life in Airdrie and send them to us. We’ll print the best of them and reward a winner in each of the following categories: Photo Categories: • Family • Competitive Sports • Culture • Recreation • Nature • Animals • Business

ESSAYS Warm up the keyboard or pull our your favorite pen and write to us about your favorite AirdrieLIFE moment. In 500 words or less tell us about why you enjoy life in Airdrie, We’ll print the best essays and reward the winner in each category. Essay categories: Ages 12 and under • Ages 13 – 18 • Ages 19 and up

SEND YOUR ENTRIES: By MAIL: AirdrieLIFE Magazine c/o Airdrie Economic Development 400 Main Street SE Airdrie, Alberta T4B 3C3 IN PERSON: Customer Service Counter Airdrie City Hall, 400 Main Street SE BY INTERNET: Email: economic.development@airdrie.ca Use a jpeg format for photo files For all entries, please provide the following information: Name, Address, Phone, Category Contest closes February 28, 2005 Photos and essays become the property of the City of Airdrie. The City of Airdrie will not be able to return images or essays. All pictures may or may not be used in future City of Airdrie publications. Each photo can only be entered in a single category. The personal information on this form is collected under the authority of Section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and is used solely for promotional, news, research and/or educational purposes. Questions about collection of this information can be directed to the Economic Development department at 400 Main Street, Airdrie, Alberta, T4B 3C3, 948-8800 ext 722.

AIRDRIE’S SOCIAL WELL-BEING CD CALENDAR Your key to Airdrie’s most valuable assets… Open the door to discover Airdrie’s diverse and progressive wellness programming available for all citizens to take advantage of.

It’s all available to you in this compact presentation, showcasing all Airdrie has to offer for a healthy body, mind and soul while emulating our strong core values and distinctive characteristics that make Airdrie home… We invite you to discover it for yourself. Airdrie’s Social Well-Being CD Calendar Available November 2004 from City Hall.

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1

East Lake Recreation & Wellness Centre Ph: (403) 948 - 8804 website: www.airdrie.ca Fall 2004 Schedule Effective Sep 1 - J an 1, 2005 CUSTOMER SERVICE

MONDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

TUESDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

WEDNESDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

THURSDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

FITNESS CENTRE 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

FRIDAY 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

SATURDAY 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

SUNDAY 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

CHILDCARE

8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. 5 - 7:30 p.m.

Cardio Blast Taebox Step and Ball Step Conditioning Circuit To the Core Variety Boot Camp Variety Fitstart Step Pilates Teaser Slim Gym Fit for Lunch Butt's & Gutt's

8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. 5 - 7:30 p.m. MONDAY

Prebooking of child care is required - call 948 - 8804 ext. 512 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. 5 - 7:30 p.m. 5 - 7:30 p.m. TUESDAY 6:00 - 7:00 a.m.

9:15 - 10:15 a.m.

AEROBIC CLASSES

WEDNESDAY 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

THURSDAY

8:45 - 11:45 a.m.

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

9:15 - 10:15 a.m.

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

9:15 - 10:15 a.m. 10:15 - 10:45 a.m.

6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

9:15 - 10:15 a.m.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m. 7:15 - 7:45 p.m.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m. 12:15 - 12:45 p.m.

6:30 - 7:15 p.m.

AQUATIC FITNESS CLASSES

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY Aquaft 9:15 - 10:15 a.m. 9:15 - 10:15 a.m. Deep Water Running 12:15 - 1 p.m. 5:45 - 6:30 a.m. 12:15 - 1 p.m. 6 - 7 p.m. 8 - 9 p.m. 6 - 7 p.m. Older Adult Aquafit 11:15 a.m. - 12 p.m. 11:15 a.m. - 12 p.m. PLEASE NOTE: No drop in fitness classes will run on Saturday's on long week ends.

THURSDAY

FRIDAY 9:15 - 10:15 a.m. 12:15 - 1 p.m.

5:45 - 6:30 a.m. 8 - 9 p.m.

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

8 - 9 a.m.

11:15 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Children under the age of seven are required to be accompanied by a responsible person 16 years of age or older . Further, to ensure safety, the child is to be within arms reach of the responsible person at all times they are in the aquatic area. Patrons are required to take a cleansing shower prior to entering any of the aquatic bodies of water, ste a.m. room or before making use of the water slide. To endeavor to provide uncont a.m.inated bodies of w ater, the ELRWC sells infant and toddler “pool pants” which, when properly siz ed, do not leak or weigh the child down. All infants and toddlers who are not toilet trained are required to wear “pool pants” and as a result, the water will remain clean for everyone to use. For you and your family’s enjoyment, Personal Flotation Devices (PFD’s) and pool toys are FREE and available during your swim.

AQUATIC HOURS - FALL 2004

Open Public Swim Teens Only Swim Parent & Tot Swim Family Swim Lane Swim Adult Only Swim Hot Tub, Steam Room Tot Pool

9:00 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The waterslide is operational during Family and Public Swim Times TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 2 - 5 p.m. 2 - 5 p.m. 2 - 5 p.m. 2 - 5 p.m. 7:15 - 9 p.m. 7:15 - 9 p.m. 7:15 - 9 p.m. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 8:30 - 10 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 2 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 2 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 2 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 2 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. 7 - 9 p.m. 9 - 9:30 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 8:30 - 9:30 p.m.

MONDAY 2 - 5 p.m. 7:15 - 9 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 8:30 - 9:30 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

SATURDAY 3 - 8:30 p.m.

SUNDAY 3 - 5 p.m. 7 - 8:30 p.m.

1 - 3 p.m. 1 - 3 p.m. 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. 1 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Home School Drop In 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Floatation device's may be used during any Public and/or F amily Swim Times, Dive Tank closed Tue and Thu 7:00 - 9 p.m. NOTE: SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE, PLEASE CALL 948-8804 FOR INFORMATION Gymnasium Schedule available at the Centre or www.airdrie.ca Friday, December 24, 2004 Saturday, December 25, 2004 Sunday, December 26, 2004 December 27 – 30, 2004 Friday, December 31, 2004 Saturday, January 01, 2005

East Lake Recreation & Wellness Centre Statutory Holiday Hours Christmas Eve 5:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Christmas Day CLOSED Boxing Day 9:00 a.m.–5 p.m. 5:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. New Year’s Eve 5:30 a.m.–3 p.m. New Year’s Day 9:00 a.m.–5 p.m.

All other City facilities Closed All other City facilities Closed

fall/winter 2004 • volume 1 •

AirdrieLIFE

cityLIVING

AirdrieLIFE is…

mine

I asked to have this last page reserved for me because I wanted to share with you my own thoughts on AirdrieLIFE.You see, my family moved to Airdrie seven years ago fr om a community I was distraught to leave behind. My husband and I had tw o days to c ome “down south” and check out Calgary, and after two frustrating days of house hunting I was near tears. As we headed north again we passed through Airdrie. “What about Airdrie?” I thought out loud. Our realtor faxed me all the available listings by the time we got home. Two days later we were back. By the end of the day we had made an o ffer on a new house in Thorburn. When we moved two weeks later (yes, it was that fast) we were delighted to disc over a neighbourhood and co mmunity that was warm and welcoming and yes, small-town friendly. We made man y friends in that neighbourhood and when we decided i n 2003 to try acreage life all of those amazing friends helped us move. From nine am. that morning until six p.m. that night they loaded, unloaded, unpacked, put away, re-arranged and cleaned up. That night we hosted a great barbeque to thank them. For dessert they surprised us with a cake that had a photo of our “old house.” It read,“we left our he art in Thorndale Close.” I cried. Now you might be wondering – w ell she doesn’t live in Airdrie anymore why is she the editor of AirdrieLIFE? Well, let me tell you

living a few kilometres from the ci ty limits does not take Airdrie out of the Airdronian. I get my groceries, my gas, my haircuts, my oil changes, my flooring, my paint, my dental check-ups, my eye exams, my medical tests, my massages, pedicures and facials, my vehicle registration, my favorite bottles of wine, my photo developing, my lawn and garden products, my dog food and vet check ups all in Airdrie. Our girls go to sc hool in Airdrie, dance in Airdrie, we coach basketball in Airdrie, I take yoga in Airdrie, we swim in Airdrie. I get m y pizza and chinese food delivered to m y door from Airdrie and the best Greek food I’ve ever tasted, I eat in Airdrie. I make reservations for the m ost amazing Italian food in Airdrie and then after we see the g reatest movies in Airdrie. Oh yes, I won’t kid you, I do go to Cal gary.

Coming in the spring issue of

My point is that the city boundaries don’t stop at my wallet, my schedule or my heart. I am so p leased that you have picked up this very first edition of AirdrieLIFE. It represents the c ulmination of a lot of hardwork, creativity and energy. You could use those same words to describe the kind of community Airdrie is. If you live here already give yourself a pat on the back. If you are considering Airdrie for your next home …

AirdrieLIFE is yours!

Sherry Froggatt, Editor If you see your home featured in the CommunityPROFILES and would like a print please email me at airdrielife@shaw.ca

AirdrieLIFE

For the kids – why Airdrie is great for parents with infants and preschoolers. Fifty and loving it – why Airdrie is popular with mature adults. Airdrie in bloom – a look at the best gardens in the city and some local advice for your yard. Home renovations – meet some of Airdrie’s do-it-yourselfers and professionals and see their handy work up close! AirdrieLIFE is – photo and essay contest winners! Plus the latest news on show homes and developments and so much more – available April 2005

AirdrieLIFE • fall/winter 2004 • volume 1