airdrielife spring 2008

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spring 2008 • volume 4 • number 2 • www.airdrielife.com | THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO LIFE IN THE CITY OF AIRDRIE Display until June 1, 2008

AirdrieLIFE

On your mark, get set,

go!

OUR 1st ANNUAL

Active Living & Wellness Issue Community | Homes | City | AirdrieWorks

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY

AirdrieLIFE

Vo l u m e 4

Welcome to Airdrie

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Welcome to AirdrieLIFE magazine. I invite you to leaf through the pages of this edition packed with articles about community initiatives, news, information and heart-warming stories about living and working in our community.

I am once again so proud to be representing this amazing City as your Mayor. The past year was bustling with activity, economic and residential growth and many community based initiatives. I believe in 2008 we will see continued focus and innovative ideas leading to a sustainable Airdrie, as the city is working to become sustainable in every sense - economically, environmentally, culturally and socially.

Airdrie now has a community where we can live, work, shop and play. We have completed some major upgrades to our interchanges in the past year, alleviating some traffic congestion. There have been huge successes in the development of retail and industrial businesses. City Council has been working on bringing improved access to community health for the last few years. We were successful in working with the Calgary Health Region to bring improved after-hours urgent evening and weekend care to the Airdrie Regional Health Centre.

Our continued focus on enhancing Airdrie’s reputation as a ‘green’ community has been well recognized. The City of Airdrie was selected to participate in a sustainable communities program. This revolutionary program will enable us to introduce sustainability initiatives and innovative ways to reduce Airdrie’s ecological footprint. Do your part to help Airdrie on its way to becoming sustainable, and drop off all your recyclables at the Airdrie Recycle Depot and watch for upcoming opportunities to be involved in community sustainability initiatives this year.

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PUBLISHER EDITOR IN CHIEF ASSISTANT EDITOR COPY EDITOR ADVERTISING SALES

Council would like to encourage residents to contribute in the decisions impacting our city. Add to Airdrie’s cultural scene by joining the Airdrie Arts Council; help lead Airdrie towards the path of sustainability by joining the Airdrie Sustainability Committee; or be a part of planning for the most important year in Airdrie’s history, with the Airdrie Centennial Committee.

Many community organizations need your help. If you are interested in playing an active role by volunteering with the city or community organizations, please visit the City of Airdrie’s web site at www.airdrie.ca.

Citizen engagement is active at the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre. The Centre has numerous activities, events and programs for kids, teens, adults and families operating year round. I am excited to see what’s coming next when Phase II of the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre is complete. The fundraising and design concepts are coming to a close, and dirt is moving. The facility expansion is just one of the many ways active living is thriving in our community.

With our community now at 31, 512 people and growing strong, I see a continued focus on keeping Airdrie a sustainable, family-friendly, and vibrant community. I encourage all residents to take note of all the exciting events this season, and become a part of Airdrie’s future as many new activities unfold.

Nu m b e r 2

Frog Inc Sherry Shaw-Froggatt Stacey Carefoot Alex Frazer-Harrison Wendy Potter-Duhaime

ADVERTISING PRODUCTIONS

Jeff Cummings

DESIGN & PRODUCTION MANAGER

Kim Williams

To ADVERTISE in AirdrieLIFE contact:

Wendy Potter Duhaime at 969-5190 sales@airdrielife.com For EDITORIAL INQUIRIES contact

editorial@airdrielife.com AirdrieLIFE does not accept unsolicited material. Freelance writers interested in assignments are asked to send an inquiry with a minimum of three published magazine quality samples.

PRINTING

Calgary Colorpress AirdrieLIFE is published three times per year by Frog Inc with the co-operation of the City of Airdrie Economic Development Department.

CITY CONTACTS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Leona Esau 948-8844 CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS

Tara Richards 948-8800

AirdrieLIFE is distributed spring, summer and fall to homes and businesses in Airdrie and surrounding communities and is available at over 100 locations in Calgary.

AirdrieLIFE can be viewed online at www.airdrielife.com Additional copies are available at Airdrie City Hall 400 Main Street Airdrie, Alberta T4B 3B4 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 may be reproduced, in all or in part, without the written permission of the publisher.

Enjoy reading through AirdrieLIFE and discover what Airdrie has waiting for you!

Mayor Linda Bruce

A i rd r i e L I F E • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • v o l u m e 4

This magazine is a proud member of the Alberta Magazine Publishers Association, abiding by the national magazine standards for editorial and advertising. www.albertamagazines.com

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY

It’s our biggest issue ever

120 pages of fantastic LIFE in Airdrie.

So grab a coffee, or park this magazine on your elliptical machine (because this is our first wellness issue) and start reading!

Table of

Contents

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Where is Linda driving to?

Everywhere! Follow Airdrie Mayor Linda Bruce during a typical week

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Namaste Meet some of Airdrie’s wellness professionals

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Where do you want to live?

Airdrie Meadows to Woodside – which neighbourhood fits your life?

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A stylish reunion A look inside the show homes of Hopewell’s newest Airdrie community

She shoots… she scores!

Meet Jordan Seegmiller, one of the puck chasing students in George McDougall’s new hockey program

What’s happening?

Plenty! See the calendar events for all the details

What’s all the hub bub?

East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre is at the centre of it all

It’s all about family Got kids? Airdrie has the resources you need

COMMUNITY 16 Like ducks to water Airdrie’s swim club dives right in for competitive fun

Three times the challenge Airdrie triathletes take on the task

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Lost in Airdrie?

You are here with our new map

HOMES 62 Thinking big Small spaces not small minds

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On golden pond Local couple creates a treasure in their own backyard

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY >> continued from 9

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Get growing Airdrie greenthumb has words of wisdom

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The lowdown on downtown New condo projects enliven downtown Airdrie

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Feng shui Where to put what and why

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Home is where the art is Amanda Tozser brings walls to life

CITY HALL 82 City Hall Meet Airdrie’s City Council

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Thinking green City environmental services information

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Leave the driving to us Airdrie Transit updates and new route map

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Healthy reading Airdrie Public Library a wellness resource

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Lending a helping hand A listing of support services

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A closer look Airdrie Meals on Wheels Society

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Ride, run, jump, skate Get off the couch and into one of Airdrie’s sports groups

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Involved Airdrie community groups invite you to join in

AirdrieWORKS 100 Learning locally Airdrie Economic Development

101 Sustainable growth Leading by example

103 On the edge of greatness The 2007 Winning Edge Award winners know a thing or two about success

106 Roll em!

Rob Ing is a man of “action.”

108 Vitreous is a glass act How recycling brings Airdrie businesses success

111 Super employee Matt Couchman makes a difference

112 A new future Bow Valley College opens doors for local women

114 A fairly good time The Airdrie Home & Garden Fair

116 AirdrieLIFE is mine!

Our editor gets the last word

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY

AirdrieLIFE Contributors A magazine is only as good as the people who make it happen!

Alex Frazer-Harrison

is a freelance journalist and book editor based in Calgary. His work has appeared in the Calgary Herald, Edmonton Journal, and numerous magazines in Alberta, BC, the US and the UK. He also edits books for a major Canadian publisher and writes for University of Calgary External Relations. Alex has had the opportunity to write about Airdrie on the local, provincial and national scale over the past year.

Stacey Carefoot,

a fourth generation writer; has called Airdrie home since 1999 (with the exception of a short yet eye-opening stint in Northern Alberta). Her articles and feature stories have appeared in numerous publications both locally and nationally. She believes everyone and everything has a story that needs to be told.

Stacey enjoys life in Airdrie with her husband Dan and their two incredible kids MacAulay and Madison.

Joan Bell, owner of Airdrie Yoga Studio,

Kristy Reimer

Sergei Belski

Alan Tennant has been a REALTOR®

has lived in the Airdrie area for the past 16 years and enjoys the vibrancy of this young city. An avid belly dancer and practicing yogi, Joan is constantly amazed by the creativity and energy of Airdrie’s many women entrepreneurs.

is a freelance photographer based in Airdrie. He is specializes in wedding, portraits, sports, and more. Sergei has been taking photographs for as long as he can remember and he is very passionate about it.

Sergei's photographs have been featured in publications around the world.

You can see more information on his web site: www.sergeibelski.com

Bob Abbott is a writer, publisher, and consultant who specializes in business communication issues. A long-time Airdrie resident, he participates in many community activities, including the Airdrie Festival of Lights.

holds a bachelor’s degree in photography from the Alberta College of Art and Design. She specializes in alluring wedding and commercial imagery. Kristy has lived in Airdrie for four years now and loves Airdrie because there are minimal traffic jams and everything is close to get to. www.kristyreimerphotography.com

in Airdrie since 1985. Before that he was Publisher of the Airdrie Echo and served as President of the Airdrie and District Chamber of Commerce. Alan served as 2006 President of the Canadian Real Estate Association, 1998 President of the Calgary Real Estate Board and was CREB’s REALTOR® of the Year in 1995. Alan was named Airdrie’s Volunteer of the Year in 2005 and says the best thing about life in Airdrie is the people!

Ellen Kelly

has been watching Airdrie grow since moving here in 1979. She teaches creative writing for Rocky View Adult Education and the Alexandra Writers Centre, and is a member of the Writers Guild of Alberta. Her short stories, creative non-fiction, essays and articles have appeared in a variety of publications.

Additional contributors: Diane Scaman, Jennifer Bardell and Donna Baltimore. Thanks for making LIFE in Airdrie happen!

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

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The Esprit featuring the Norlund Kitchen

Jayman takes a cue from the past.

Nestled in a quiet corner of Airdrie, the exciting new community of Reunion harks back to the days when neighbours were neighbours and a home was truly a home.

In Reunion, Jayman features home designs by Jayman MasterBUILT and Innovations by Jayman that are inspired by classic 1950s styles, says area sales manager Shannon Morton.

“The community has a unique look, going back to the older-style homes,” she says.

“We’ve brought in four different architectural styles: Prairie, Craftsman, Arts and Crafts, and Classical.”

Morton says Reunion appeals to homebuyers of all ages, and eventually the community will have all the amenities and housing choices needed to make it the destination for people in all stages of life.

“There has been a lot of interest in Reunion from Airdrie and Calgary, and we’re also seeing a lot of interest from places like Red Deer and from people

moving to Alberta [from places like] Nova Scotia,” says Morton. “Many of these people are coming from small towns and want to live in a smaller community.”

Airdrie may be a smaller community, but it packs big-city services and amenities, and Reunion is mere minutes away from shopping, golfing, and recreation opportunities. It’s easy to access Highway 2, or to head west to Cochrane and the mountains.

Jayman has five showhomes now open in Reunion, so you can see what the future has in store. This includes two showhomes by Jayman MasterBUILT, which specializes in larger, move-up homes (a total of five MasterBUILT plans are available with more coming in 2008); and three by Innovations by Jayman (out of seven floorplan options), which aims at those looking for their first starter home.

“Within Innovations there are seven models we can build, and within MasterBUILT there are five,” says Morton, noting floor-

plans range from 930 sq. ft. for some of the starter Innovations models, up to 2,400 sq. ft. under the MasterBUILT line.

The homes may feature traditional styles, but they’re wired for the future. Each home comes with a technology package from Shaw, including a high-definition digital terminal, three months of phone/Internet/digital TV, as well as a modem, Morton says.

The homes feature Jayman’s Quantum Wall System and are built to meet or exceed Built Green Alberta’s Gold Standards for energy efficiency and resource use. Other options include Nordlund Kitchen configurations, highefficiency furnaces, 15-inch Toshiba LCD TV/DVD setups, and landscaping packages.

The showhomes are located at 2015 Reunion Blvd. and 957 Reunion Gateway, west of Woodside Drive off Veterans Boulevard. For more information, visit www.jayman.com or reunionairdrie.com.

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY

AirdrieLIFE is

In the swim of things!

By Stacey Carefoot

Chlorine; to many of us its odour is offensive - a reminder of bleach, the ultimate germ eliminator.

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But to a swimmer, the smell of chlorine is like perfume.A swimmer can walk into a pool area, take a breath and it hits them - the need to swim hard and fast.

In Airdrie, more than 80 members of the Nose Creek Swim Association (NCSA) swim at a variety of levels and for a variety of reasons.“The club represents an outlet that many people are looking for an organized, healthy sport run by professional, certified coaches,” says Tom Ponting. Ponting, an assistant head coach and Olympic medallist, is the only swimmer in Canadian history to win three Olympic medals in three different Olympic Games (1992, 1988, and 1984).

A large part of what makes the NSCA such a successful group is its calibre of coaching staff. No, not all are Olympians, but every member of the coaching team is dedicated to the sport and to the development of strong, healthy swimmers. The coaching staff working with the Airdrie division of the club has a combination of more than 66 years of coaching experience, as well as countless years of competitive swimming under their belts.

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“I know what they are experiencing, and by knowing that, I help them achieve their goals: that for me is what coaching is all about,” says Robin Glatz, NCSA’s I Can Swim administrator and coach. The coaching staff is also comprised of numerous swimmers who have found the time to share their passion with others.

The NSCA was formed in January 1994 when the Airdrie Tiger Sharks and Thornhill Thunderbots swim clubs merged. Swimmers with the two groups train at the facility closest to them, either the Thornhill Aquatic and Recreation Centre in north Calgary or The East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre in Airdrie.Taking their new name from the creek that flows through Airdrie and north Calgary, the NCSA distinguished itself right out of the gates by being named the top small club in Alberta the year of its inception and winning the title again in 1997, 1999, 2002, and 2003.

Swimmers with the association range in age from five up to universityaged athletes. The younger members are placed in the I Can Swim Program. Developed by Swimming Canada, I Can Swim, is dedicated to teaching children the basics of the four swimming strokes: front crawl, breaststroke, butterfly and backstroke. Participants are also introduced to swimming starts and turns. As children progress through I

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Can Swim, they strive towards creating the skill set and drive to become a strong competitive swimmer.

“When I see that look on their face, the moment when they realize that they have accomplished something they thought they never could, it’s just an amazing feeling,” says Robin Glatz, though she expresses frustration at losing swimmers to other sports.“Competitive swimming fulfills everything a sport should.”

I Can Swim members swim two times per week for 45 minutes and are rewarded with progression stamps and stickers when a skill is achieved. These swimmers are constantly being coached to achieve beyond their current ability. During the season swimmers in the program enjoy two fun swim meets, which are great times to track their progression and enjoy a little friendly competition. These swimmers are also given a progress report from their coach twice a year, which allows them to track their abilities as well as see the requirements to advance in the program.

PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

The competitive division of NSCA prepares swimmers for organized competitions.

Members of this group train upwards of 15 hours per week and compete at local, provincial, and national levels, depending on their ages and abilities. Ponting says it takes eight years to develop as a swimmer, but the benefits are innumerable. Many members of this competitive team hold records in their age categories, both provincially and nationally.

Ponting says the benefits of competitive swimming go far beyond the pool.

“Due to the stress of the training and competitions that they are exposed to repeatedly swimmers are less likely to panic under stress and are process oriented - therefore they make good students and employees,” he says.

Ponting isn’t the only connection NCSA has to the Olympics. Twenty-four year-old swimmer Josh Riker-Fox has qualified for the games in the sport of Modern Pentathlon, an event that encompasses freestyle swimming, fencing, cross country running, pistol shooting and equestrian show jumping.

Ryker-Fox, a Delacour resident, has been training in Airdrie for four years with Ponting as his swimming mentor.

“Josh has improved steadily on his stroke and times to the point where he’s competitive on the Olympic level,” says Ponting.“Josh and I share many interests and opinions in the field of sport and I am privileged to be the one who gets to share my Olympic experiences with him as I live vicariously through his own Olympic journey.”

An army of volunteers and a group of dedicated coaches and staff fuels the Nose Creek Swim Association. An enormous amount of swimmer support is required of all families involved. Swimmers of all shapes, sizes, ages and abilities find a niche within the NCSA whether they’re Olympians or perhaps those with Olympic-sized hearts.

To learn more visit ncsaswim.ca v o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY

Centre of Attention

By Stacey Carefoot

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A hub is a place of convergence, a common connection point, and the centre part of an object. Airdrie’s hub is the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre, our centre of activity. Housed on East Lake Boulevard, the centre serves Airdrie residents as an envelope for countless activities and organizations. The modern glass exterior and welcoming entrance act as beacons for anyone looking for a place to get active, explore, learn, and get involved. On the inside many facets make up this important city hub. Individuals, teams, employees, volunteers and patrons gather at the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre (ELRWC) and we’ve caught up with some of them to discover why the centre is such a success.

At the centre of this hub, is Greg Lockert. Lockert is the manager of the ELRWC as well as manager of the Plainsmen and Twin Arenas.“It is a very exciting position and a privilege to be able to operate this facility” said Lockert. As manager, Lockert oversees the daily operation of the facilities, he has held this position with the City of Airdrie for just under one year now.“Were a busy facility with a lot of things on the go. My job is to keep it moving forward, improving things like customer service and programs offered to our users along the way”.

The first people to greet visitors to the ELWRC are members of the Guest Services team. This group of enthusiastic, helpful representatives is lead by Dave Flette, Finance and Administration Team Leader for the City of Airdrie. Flette has held this position with the City for close to four years and can often be found behind the customer service desk welcoming people to the facility.“We try to create a family environment for our staff,” says Flette. The Guest Services team is the fast-acting group responding to customer feedback.“We are continuing to grow as a city and we strive to create an atmosphere that meets the needs of this dynamic community,” says Flette.

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The ELRWC is comprised of numerous amenities attracting a wide range of patrons.The Aquatic Centre has a six lane 25 metre competition pool, dive dank, hot tub, tot pool, leisure pool, waterslide and steam room. Fitness buffs to families and everyone in between frequent this amenity. The Aquatic Centre provides structured swim programs for children ages four months to adults and is home to the Airdrie division of the Nose Creek Swim Association as well as the Syncro Star Club of Airdrie.

Dry land, fitness and leisure areas are found on the main level as well as upstairs in the facility. The double, full sized gymnasiums are home to countless activities. High school physical education classes often take place at the facility during the day while drop-in gym times are filled with kids, adults, families and groups of friends shooting hoops, training for specific events or just simply running off steam. Small children have a safe, fun place to play at the McDonald’s Fun Place where a play structure can keep them busy for hours. When not rented, this room is available for drop-in use.Young families can also enjoy the childcare services provided by ELRWC available to individuals using other centre amenities.To prebook patrons can call 948-8804 ext 512.

A multi-purpose dance studio near the rear of the building is the permanent home to the Star Baton and Dance Company which accounts for the dancers and twirlers dotting the hallways of the facility on a regular basis. Located near the back of the building on the main level is the Airdrie Echo Chamber meeting room, the Rotary Community room and the Woodmont/Bluegrass multi-purpose room. These rooms are available to book for functions and the Rotary room has a full kitchen.

PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

What’s Next for the ELRWC? Phase 2 is a multi purpose facility that will provide for a variety of community needs. It will increase tourism and allow for hosting of regional, provincial and national events, such as: trade shows, conferences, sporting events and much more. Phase 2 will include two indoor soccer pitches (also to be used as a multi purpose center), an indoor running track and a gymnastics center. The multi purpose area will be used for : Lacrosse, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, lawn bowling, field hockey, arena football, trade shows, graduations, conferences, and much more.

One of the most frequently used areas of the ELRWC is the cardio/weight room. The devote fitness enthusiast or a rookie can find everything they’re looking for in a gym facility. Bikes, treadmills, elliptical and stair machines make up the majority of the cardiovascular equipment while free weights and machines are strategically placed for an efficient workout. The second floor fitness/leisure studio includes a mirrored wall, exercise balls, light free weights, mats and much more.This studio is home to numerous organized fitness classes or available for private bookings.

Bringing this 72,000 square foot building to life is the dedicated team of ELRWC employees. More than eighty employees are dedicated to providing a fun, healthy environment for everyone including fitness instructors, personal trainers, lifeguards and childcare providers.

If you are already making the healthy choice to visit the ELRWC - congratulations. If you have yet to experience our city’s hub and everything the ELRWC has to offer, what are you waiting for?

Did you know?

The five bodies of water in the aquatic centre holds a total of 1.5 million gallons of water?

The ELRWC is only closed four days per year.

A total of approximately 650,000 people per year visit the ELRWC. v o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY

AirdrieLIFE

is on ice!

George McDougall High School Hockey Skills Academy

By Stacey Carefoot

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Only seconds are left on the clock, the score is tied, and she takes a slap shot from the point.

The puck goes in, the horn blows, everyone cheers - and then Jordan Seegmiller wakes up from the reoccurring dream she’s been having for a long time now.

Seegmiller, 14, a hockey player, fan, and hopefully someday a star, is sharpening her skills and logging more ice time thanks to a new program at George McDougall High School (GMHS).

This is the inaugural year for the George McDougall Hockey Skills Academy, a program that follows the Hockey Canada Skills Academy curriculum and compliments, but is not directly related to Airdrie Minor Hockey.

Jordan Seegmiller laces up for class.

GMHS teachers Tim Masse and Ryan Haggarty are carrying out the idea that was sparked by GMHS Principal Greg Long. Masse serves as director of the program and head instructor and Haggarty is a hockey skills instructor.

“The nice thing about it is we have two staff that have incredible skills as teachers and are now able to hone in on their

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Seegmiller, in the red helmet, listens and then applies her skills on the ice.

PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

coaching ability,” says Long.“You couldn’t ask for two better people to get this job done, I’m really proud of them.”

A total of 40 students are enrolled in this year’s hockey skills academy at GMHS, of those 40, only three are girls, but that doesn’t intimidate Seegmiller.

“It doesn’t make any difference to me, I’m not afraid,” she says, about the potential to be overshadowed by bigger, older kids in the program.

Currently the academy acts as a full-year option for students in grades 9 through 12. It is split into two sections with the grade 9 students attending the academy three times per week, with one of those times being a classroom session, and the grade 10-12 students see six classes per week split equally between ice time and classroom or dry-land training sessions. Students aren’t just learning about hockey during this unique option, “they can learn life skills that deal with nutrition and fitness training and much more through a sport that they enjoy,” says Masse.

“There is a lot of mentoring that goes on, both off and on the ice,” says Masse. The students are often divided according to on ice ability, giving them the opportunity to grow and work on skills that are appropriate for their individual level. “Students that are already at a high skill level benefit by concentrating on their own skills, thereby giving them something that they may not have time for during regular practice time.

Masse believes the program benefits the students and enhances other parts of the community as well.

“We give those not involved in minor hockey a chance to improve their skills to a level where they may feel comfortable joining Airdrie Minor Hockey next season.”

“These students love the game and regardless of their skill level they want to learn and have fun,” Masse says. “It’s a place where players don’t have to worry about their individual per-

“We benefit the community by complimenting the minor hockey association, and not trying to be a separate hockey outlet,” he says.

“The school benefits by running a unique program for a section of our student body that enjoys hockey.”

formance; they enjoy the game as they would playing outside with their friends.” Although they are learning a tremendous amount from Masse, who played hockey through to the junior level in Saskatchewan before becoming an educator, he in turn is learning from them.

“They often bring me new ideas and drills that I haven’t seen or used before.”

Not touted as an alternative to minor hockey, the Hockey Skills Academy offers some stark contrasts to organized sport. Sit though a class or two and it won’t take long to see the difference. What this program is missing is that negative parent in the stands and the cranky coach hollering at the referee. There’s no controversy, no penalties.

“Our program is based on hockey being incorporated into school, not school being added into hockey,” says Long.“We are following Hockey Canada’s lead on trying to create a purer game with speed and skill.”

Families pay between $300 and $600 per year for the program without chipping in much more throughout the season, while other programs throughout the country can run upwards of $500 per month.

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY >> continued from 21

Education in Airdrie Public Schools A.E. Bowers [K-4]

Bert Church High [9-12] Ecole Airdrie Middle [5-8] Ecole Edwards [K-4] Meadowbrook Middle [5-8] George McDougall High [9-12] Muriel Clayton Middle [4-8] Nose Creek Elementary K-4 R.J. Hawkey [K-4] Ralph McCall [K-8] Rocky View Virtual School [9-12] Rocky View School Division #4, 945-4000 www.rockyview.ab.ca To learn what school your child will attend in Airdrie please call 945-4103

Separate Schools Our Lady Queen of Peace School [K-12] St. Martin de Porres [7-12] Calgary Roman Catholic Separate School Division #1, Calgary 298-1383 www.cssd.ab.ca

Private Airdrie Koinonia Christian School [K-12), 948-5100 www.akcs.com

Francophone École Francophone d'Airdrie, 948-6995 www.conseildusud.ab.ca/airdrie

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A handful of students who attend the academy compete at an elite level. For example, Seegmiller is an assistant captain for Calgary’s Bantam Extreme, while others play for Midget AAA teams and grade 12 students in the program are actively setting their sights on university-level hockey. Their skills vary, their backgrounds differ and they may not all share Jordan Seegmiller’s dream, but every student on the ice shares the experience of paving the way for the success of other innovative programs and partnerships in our community.

Editor’s Note At press time Seegmiller had made the cut out of 120 girls to play on the team representing Calgary in the Alberta Winter Games February 14 - 18. She has also been selected to attend an elite training camp that is a feeder for future national team members.

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY

Mayor Linda Bruce taking care of business at City Hall PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

A week in the LIFE… Airdrie Mayor Linda Bruce As told to Stacey Carefoot

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“I would need 1,000 lifetimes to accomplish everything I want to do,” says Mayor Linda Bruce from her office at City Hall. It’s obvious from our short conversation City business is important and despite her high profile position, family comes first. How does she meet the demands of being a mother of three active boys, wife to a pilot and Mayor of Canada’s fastest growing city?

We traced her steps over a period of a week and believe me; you’re going to be exhausted after reading this sampling of what this energetic and inspiring woman does week in and week out. Here, in her words, is a week in the life of our Mayor Linda Bruce. ...but school lunches come first with husband Pat helping out

Monday 8:00 am - Stacey Carefoot, writer for AirdrieLIFE called to ask me to journal my life. I gladly accepted as I was also curious and wanted to trace my steps.

Today was a day of putting out fires. I spent the better part of the day on the phone and when I checked; I had 291 emails. When you go on vacation, the emails really pile up.

It may take me a few weeks to recover from my vacation.

9:00 am - I went to Ralph McCall School to visit Brian Jackson’s class to do a class-to-class, Mayor-to-Mayor radio link. Brian is such an inspiring teacher.

Noon - Morning zoomed into lunch, which I ate at my desk.

I managed to get a few emails answered.

2:45 pm - Most days at 2:45 pm I leave the office to pick up my kids from school. I try to get a few hours after school with them before my evening meetings kick-in.

10:30 pm – I head home from City Hall from an evening of meetings.

Tuesday 5:30 am – Wake up. Read the newspaper, prepare breakfast and get the kids to school.

8:30 am - Today we had a full day session on The Natural Step (TNS). This is a process to help the City take appropriate steps to becoming sustainable. I absolutely enjoy TNS and all its workshops and seminars, and am looking forv o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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for their volunteer appreciation supper at the Legion. It was a great evening. I got to chat with some friends I don’t see very often.

Brenda Moon from the Rodeo Association told me who will be playing in next year’s Canada Concert; part of the annual Airdrie Rodeo. Knowing the talent we are getting, I know I’ll be marking my calendar!

8:00 pm - Back home to check on homework and Kieran’s project.

9:30 pm - Bed looked great!

A quick caffeine fix helps Bruce get through the day

Thursday

ward to beginning the process. Development of an Integrated Community Sustainability Plan represents an exciting opportunity for Airdrie because it will address important quality of life issues, for instance, all of the dimensions of sustainable communities (economic, social, environmental, culture and governance).

5:30 am - Today started the same as usual except I added laundry to my list of morning chores before I woke up the kids.

5:00 pm - By the time I arrived home, everyone had eaten dinner and Pat (my husband) had driven Tristan (my oldest son) to Navy Cadets in Calgary. Aidan (my middle son) had his violin lesson tonight at 6:30 pm. His teacher comes to the house, which helps save time. While they were busy making beautiful music Kieran (my youngest son) and I worked on his school project about our vacation for a class presentation.

Wednesday 5:30 am – Wake up. Read the newspaper, prepare breakfast and get the kids to school.

9:00 am - I attended a meeting with Mayor Patricia Matthews, two Aldermen and the CAO from Chestemere. Airdrie’s Fire Chief Sheldon Leavitt has also joined us to tour our Fire Hall and to discuss Airdrie’s EMS operations and personnel training.

8:00 am - Off to George McDougall High School to open the Provincial Volleyball Championships. It’s always fun attending functions at schools. Not only was this about athleticism, but they also showcased the talents of their band. There is always so much excitement and enthusiasm at these events. I’m hoping I can take in at least one game of the tournament.

9:00 am - Back to the office for a bit.

Noon - Eat lunch and go to Nose Creek Park to film a congratulatory message for a new Korean Broadcast TV station. This station will broadcast on January 2, serving the Calgary area. The City of Airdrie’s sister city, Gwacheon, Korea, has been wonderful and opportunities like this allow me to continue to build our relationship.

2:45 pm - Today, Pat dealt with the after school routine.

5:30 pm - I arrived home as they are ready to leave. I quickly eat dinner and then take Aidan to basketball practice. While he was busy I slipped back to the office to get a few emails done. We get home in time to help Kieran finish his project, which he will present on Friday.

10:15 am - I got back to my desk and managed a few minutes at my desk before a meeting with staff.

Noon - Off to the Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

1:30 pm - I managed to spend a few hours at my desk and attended a few quick meetings.

2:45 pm – Pick-up the kids from school, help with homework and organize for the evening. I need to get Aidan off to Calgary for his Bow Valley Fiddlers group lesson and a private lesson with his fiddle teacher.

6:00 pm – Dinner with the Airdrie and District Agriculture Society

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Helping son Kieran (9) with homework

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Saturday Last night I realized no one would be home to stay with Kieran while I attend the Santa Claus Parade this morning. I confirm with Kieran to see if he would like to join me, he agrees and we ride in the parade together.

Taking in another meeting

Friday 5:30 am – Wake up. Read the newspaper, prepare breakfast and get the kids to school.

Another load of laundry, I look around and see on Sunday there will be six more loads waiting for me.

Pat went to work and will be away for the better part of two weeks.

It is going to get busy.

It was a great day for a parade. Afterwards, we walk to Main Street to finish watching it. When you are participating in the parade, you don’t get to see much of it! We walk to the mall where Kieran has his caricature drawn by Kelly Gannon and have his picture taken with Santa. It’s great to have local artists of such caliber.

The Christmas Season has officially started!

Sunday Clean up day! Do laundry, change bedding and get clothes ready for another week. We couldn’t move in the garage, so we make a trip to the Recycling Depot. We cooked supper before I dash off to pick-up Tristan at the bus depot in Calgary, returning home from music camp. Get home, lights out and we prepare for another week.

8:20 am - In the office (no time for my morning coffee), I attend many meetings, read and sign many documents and work on the never ending task of answering emails. The phones are down in the office, so I have a bit of undisturbed work time.

9:45 am - I head to Springbank for a meeting with Ted Morton, Minister of Sustainable Resource Development. This meeting was arranged as part of my role as Chair of the Calgary Regional Partnership. The meeting went really well. Minister Morton is always well briefed. He must read voraciously. I debrief with a few other people after the meeting.

1:30 pm - Back to the office and attend a few small meetings.

2:45 pm - I quickly change from my suit before taking Aidan to theory lessons and picking up Tristan from piano. Stop off at the store for a few necessities as Tristan will be leaving for music camp in Edmonton this weekend. I order pizza for the boys and head to the Twin Arena to a tribute for “Mr. Airdrie” Dick Buchanan. Dick owns Air Alta Insurance and is being recognized for the 25th anniversary of hosting the Air-Alta Cup a great hockey tournament and an excellent example of Airdrie’s community spirit.

It was a great ceremony!

5:30 pm – I take Tristan to the bus in Calgary. Off to camp he goes.

7:15 pm - I spend the rest of the evening cuddled up on the coach with my 9 year-old watching movies. Not a bad way to end the week.

Laundry still piles up even for the Mayor

Fast Facts about Mayor Linda Bruce FAVOURITE PART OF THE DAY Morning. My first cup of coffee and the newspaper.

SEASON SHE ENJOYS THE MOST Summer. I love the warmth and the water.

CITIES OUTSIDE OF ALBERTA SHE ENJOYS VISITING Halifax, St. John’s and Montreal BOOK SHE’S READING RIGHT NOW The Weather Makers and Leaving Microsoft to Save the World MOVIE RECENTLY WATCHED The Queen v o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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AirdrieLIFE is

about wellness!

Wellness expertise is abundant in Airdrie

As a provincial peace officer, Faith Wood sustained an injury on the job and lived with chronic pain. When traditional medical solutions didn’t work, she tried alternatives such as massage and acupuncture. When she learned about the benefits of hypnosis in pain management, her pain went from an excruciating 12 out of 10, down to a manageable one or two out of 10.

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In 2003, after two and a half years of training, Wood became an internationally certified hypnotherapist and started her company, Inspiring Minds Consulting Ltd. She describes herself as a mentor, not a coach, who assists people who often do not feel they have any options to shift their thinking through hypnosis. Wood has worked with individuals, trying to overcome phobias such as fear of flying or public speaking, those who are dealing with chronic pain, people who are trying to stop smoking, and athletes interested in improving their performance through mental conditioning. One client, Michael Turner, actually turned down promotions and cancelled family vacations due to his severe fear of flying. After spending time with Faith, he was able to overcome his phobia and told Faith,“I’m a different person— I can’t tell you what it means to have my life back”.

By Joan Bell As an active community, Airdrie is known for high levels of participation in sports from all age categories, in all sorts of activities, from arm wrestling to soccer. Airdrie has a growing community of complementary wellness practitioners supporting these active lifestyles. The list of options includes practices such as chiropractic, acupuncture, herbal medicine, aromatherapy, reflexology, reiki, faith, hypnotherapy, laughter workshops, massage, nutrition, yoga, and meditation. Each of these techniques claims benefits for individuals seeking relief from pain, stress, fatigue, and looking for ways to improve physical and mental well being.

Read on for a snapshot of some of the complementary wellness providers who are dedicated to enhancing LIFE in Airdrie.

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“The more stressed we feel, the more likely we are to take shallow breaths,” Wood says.“Make it a habit to check your breathing when you are feeling stressed.”

Wood is also a consummate performer, entertaining audiences with her hypnosis stage show. She works with volunteers to tap into the awesome power of the human mind. Her performances induce laughter and reduce stress for participants and audience members alike. Wood believes in helping people to exceed their expectations.To learn more about Faith Wood and Inspiring Minds, go to www.faithwood.com.

PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

Faith Wood | INSPIRING MINDS

Wood’s goal is to give people the tools to solve their problems and she says she hopes to reach beyond Airdrie and Calgary to the rest of Canada and into the United States. In addition to her consulting practice, Wood offers workshops, seminars, and keynotes presentations with a focus on self-awareness, elevating personal goals, and inspiring momentum. She is often a presenter at conferences and provides tangible “how to” tips for attendees, particularly in the area of “possibility thinking”. Wood tells people she comes in contact with that the most important thing to remember in times of stress is to breathe.

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Haley Brietzke | LAUGHIN’ IS LIVIN’

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“Fake it until you make it,” That’s what Haley Brietzke tells people when they first come to one of her Laughter Yoga Workshops. Brietzke first stumbled across Laughter Yoga in 2006 and after doing some research, decided she wanted to bring this unique way of releasing stress to Airdrie and southern Alberta. She travelled to Vancouver and completed her instructor training and has been offering Laughter sessions under her company, Laughin’ is Livin’, ever since.

Brietzke, who, with her husband of 20 years and two children call Airdrie home, has found this city seems to embrace new adventures and offers great support for new ideas. She is a Licensed Practical Nurse and has been employed at Bethany Airdrie for more than 13 years.

Brietzke says she was delighted with the first Laughter Yoga Workshop she instructed in 2007 at Airdrie Yoga Studio.“When was the last time you laughed for 8.5 minutes straight?”

Laughter Yoga incorporates breathing, stretching, moving, and of

course, laughing. As the saying goes,“laughter is the best medicine.” A good laugh helps heal the mind, body and soul and laughter has been scientifically proven to offer relief from stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve the circulatory, cardio-vascular, respiratory, and immune systems. Most of all, laughter makes you feel good.

“In Laughter Yoga you can laugh over nothing, even fake laughter, and still reap the rewards; the body doesn’t know the difference,” Brietzke says. It is amazing how quickly a simulated laugh can turn into the giggles and then into contagious laughter which benefits the mind, body, and spirit.

Brietzke offers monthly Laughter Yoga Workshops at Airdrie Yoga.

The workshops incorporate yoga stretches, rhythmic breathing, meditation and a lot of playfulness. To attend class you just need to bring your smile; prior knowledge of yoga is not necessary, and your level of physical fitness is irrelevant.

Brietzke says her dream is for all of Airdrie to laugh with her one day very soon. To check out the next Laughter Yoga workshop, go to www.airdrieyoga.com. v o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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In 2006, Danielle Kot’s hometown of Redvers, Saskatchewan recognized her athletic achievements with a sign listing her accomplishments. Without a track, coach, or long jump pit, Kot managed to become a two time national gold medalist in track and field.

“The folks in Redvers still talk about how silly I looked pulling a tire behind me down the road during my training,” she says.

Obviously Kot lives her philosophy that obstacles are merely bumps in the road that we must be overcome in order to achieve success. After working in the health club industry, she realized that many patrons were not achieving their personal goals. As an athlete, Kot found her own nutrition slipping and went to Simply For Life in Calgary for help and motivation.

She quickly fell in love with the concept of eating real food without crash diets and pills.

In 2005, Kot, a certified nutritionist, opened Simply For Life in Airdrie. She and her group of trained nutritionists work with clients to achieve lasting weight loss by changing the individual’s approach to eating. Simply For Life is not about dieting, but altering your lifestyle to eat healthy and maintain weight loss.

Danielle Kot | SIMPLY FOR LIFE

Kot works with clients to reach their health and fitness goals. The team at Simply For Life has helped individual clients lose up to 110 lbs and works with a range of people, from those looking to lose those last 10 lbs to individuals with severe health concerns related to obesity. The nutritionists at Simply For Life work with the client to develop meal plans that can assist with medical concerns ranging from diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, menopausal symptoms, heartburn, and fatigue. Each meal plan is tailored to the specific needs of the client.

Simply For Life assists clients in managing their medical concerns and works to boost their metabolism in a healthy way. At the same time, clients are educated on how to lose weight and maintain their weight loss.

Kot says she loves going to work everyday knowing that she is helping people who are ready to make a commitment to changing their life. For more information, call 948-4424.

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Joan Bell | AIRDRIE YOGA STUDIO

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Airdrie Yoga Studio is in its fourth year of operation and offers 20 classes a week in Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, and various fitness programs including Belly Dance, Butts & Guts, Boot Camp, and Circuit Training.

Owner Joan Bell started the studio to provide a warm, inviting environment for the practice of yoga and expanded the programs to meet the needs of Airdrie residents. The majority of Bells client’s are between the ages of 25 and 55, and they practise yoga for a variety of reasons. Some are seeking to reduce stress in their lives, some to tone and strengthen their bodies, and others to find relaxation and peace of mind in meditation.

“In our often hectic lives it is difficult to find the time to focus on ourselves,” says Bell.“Yoga offers the opportunity to balance the mind and body, develop core strength, and improve flexibility all in one efficient package. Yoga is a

non-competitive enjoyable activity appropriate for all age and fitness levels that can produce truly amazing results. If you want to relax and become balanced and calm, yoga will lead you there. If you want to achieve peace of mind and discover your hidden potential, yoga is the answer.”

her hamstrings and lower back felt tighter and her knees and hips grew stiffer. Yoga has helped Bell to regain the flexibility she lost and keeps her active.

Regular practice of yoga postures is known to improve immune, respiratory, circulatory, digestive, and nervous systems and help improve flexibility, tone muscles, relieve tension, and strengthen bones.

“I have always been a high energy person and often had difficulty focusing on one task at a time—I was always busy thinking about the next item on my to do list,” she says. Yoga teaches you how to breathe, relax, and focus your energy. Bell now finds that she is much more effective in completing tasks and enjoys the higher level of energy associated with the practice of yoga. Check out what Airdrie Yoga Studio has to offer in the way of yoga and fitness classes at www.airdrieyoga.com.

Bell originally started doing yoga eight years ago to help with her running.

“Like most runners, I put stretching low on my list of priorities,” she says. “My idea of stretching was to try and touch my toes a few times—most times I failed.” As she got older,

The emotional benefits of yoga have not been lost on Joan either.

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cessfully launched the first on-site massage business in Calgary, travelling with her therapists to provide massages to clients in their place of business. Since then Rimes has operated several clinics in Calgary and Airdrie, including Muscle Check Natural Health Clinic.

Shelly Rimes | MUSCLE CHECK

Besides football, what do the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the Miami Dolphins, and the Canadian Junior Football League have in common? They all use Shelly Rimes’ all-natural sport ointment, Muscle Check. While working with athletes as a certified massage therapist with a focus on sport injuries, Rimes says,“I couldn’t find a natural anti-inflammatory that would go deep into muscle tissue and joints”.

What she came up with is a formula for muscle and joint pain relief. Muscle Check incorporates the natural anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil and extra virgin olive oil.

Originally designed as a product for sports injuries, Rimes started using Muscle Check in her clinic for massage applications. After attending a seniors’ wellness conference, Rimes realized the product was a natural for relieving joint pain caused by arthritis.

Rimes consulted three formulators and headed into the lab to develop her own product.

“I thought it would take three months; instead it took two years!”she says.

Rimes, a long time Airdrie resident, has a background in fitness and worked as a personal trainer before opening a sports injury and massage therapy clinic in 1994. She suc-

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Over the years, Rimes has had her touch with fame, providing massage therapy for numerous musical artists, including Sheryl Crow,The Tragically Hip,Theory of a Dead Man, and Three Days Grace. For two years, Rimes was the head massage therapist for Lilith Fair, featuring singer Sarah McLachlan. Rimes has also worked on numerous Calgary Flames players and a couple of rodeo champions.

Rimes plans to head back into the lab to develop additional massage therapy products, and believes many people are looking for natural alternatives to help them deal with pain and discomfort. Her goal is to see Muscle Check available in health and retail outlets across Canada.

“I would like to see Muscle Check right along side Cold FX as a natural healing product,” she says.

Muscle Check is available in Airdrie at Big Bear’s Fitness Centre, Central Health Chiropractic & Wellness Clinic, and Airdrie Office Supplies. For more information call 945-0045 or email srimes@telus.net.

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Penny Peacock Walmsley | BIG BEAR’S FITNESS CENTRE

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Local fitness guru Penny Peacock Walmsley has been an athlete all her life. After participating in most school sports, a degree in physical education was a natural fit. Penny majored in athletic training and conditioning and minored in coaching.

While at university, Walmsley got into bodybuilding. She retired from the sport in 1985 after being told by judges that she would have to take steroids to really excel.

“That was just not an option,” Walmsley says.

“I couldn’t imagine doing that to my hardearned body.”

In January 2000, she opened Big Bear’s

Fitness Centre in Airdrie. Walmsley says she sees the people of Airdrie as the city’s biggest asset and “a perfect fit for the kind of gym I wanted to open.”

With her nutritional and fitness background, Walmsley has worked with clients ranging in age from 12 to 83. While some of her clients are professional athletes, most are not.

With 30 years of personal fitness training experience, Walmsley specializes in injury rehabilitation.

Walmsley has worked with several worldchampion athletes including bodybuilder Dora Nabier and BMX racer Samantha Cools. Walmsley also takes pride in the

accomplishments of her elderly clientele and participants in the Young at Heart classes (aerobics/weight training fitness classes for the over 50 age group) offered at the centre.

Not a fan of big chain franchises with their pushy sales and one size fits all, cookie-cutter approach to fitness, Walmsley and her staff work one on one with clients to meet their fitness and nutrition needs.

Walmsley responds to fitness and general health questions in her regular feature in Here’s the Scoop.“Airdrie is the perfect place for my husband and I, our business, and our family,” she says. To learn more about Big Bear’s Fitness contact Penny at 912-9300.

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Three times the effort

SERGEI

By Stacey Carefoot

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The sport of triathlon is relatively new compared to other athletic events.

Going back just a hair over 35 years, this combination of swimming, biking and running is attracting new athletes and gaining rapid momentum through cities across Canada, Airdrie included.

PHOTOS BY SERGEI BELSKI

Triathlon is a competition that involves swimming, biking and running, with competitors transitioning from one activity to the next in a race-style format. Competitors learn through experience and training to conserve energy and preserve endurance for each subsequent stage and through the exhilarating transitions in between. The distances vary and the competitors are always tough.

Airdrie boasts its own group of tough competitors and arguably the toughest is Janet Sima. Triathlon isn’t something this long-time Airdrie resident does as a hobby: it’s actually a sport she’s incorporated into her business and lifestyle. Triathlon and the health benefits that arise from it are Sima’s passion.“It’s a part of me, there’s nothing else to it,” she says.

Sima, 36, an Airdrie resident for more than 17 years, has competed in two half-ironman triathlons, as well as numerous sprint and Olympic distance events, typically placing within the top five of the 30 – 39 age category. Sima insists that it’s not the placing that keeps her coming back.“To me it’s not v o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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Above: Sima completes the last leg of a race.

Right: Van der Poel and Abbott celebrate their first triathlon finish.

about racing or competing,” she says. “It’s about setting goals and achieving in life.

Triathlon is a means to facing fears, dreaming big and becoming healthy in the process.”

Sima isn’t the only one who benefits from her passion for triathlon. She’s incorporated triathlon training into ENRG Training Systems, a business she has owned and operated for 12 years. She currently places a lot of focus on training individuals for short and middle-distance triathlons. “Many people come to me with a sense of intrigue, yet sometimes with apprehension about the sport,” she says.“I believe they are drawn by the challenge that triathlon has to offer but have doubts they can actually do it. My goal is to help prepare them mentally, physically and emotionally for achieving this goal that they have set for themselves.”

Like most athletes Sima continues to set the bar a little higher each year. She will be competing in no less than four triathlons this upcoming season and is setting her sights on

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a full ironman within the next five to10 years.

Although triathlon is usually considered a solo endeavor, one Airdrie couple found it an enjoyable and challenging activity to do together.

Scott Abbott, another long-time Airdrie resident competed in his first triathlon last June alongside his fiancée Jenna Van der Poel. Both trained with Sima for three months leading up to the Woody’s RV Sprint Triathlon. “It was something my fiancée and I could do together,” says Abbott.

Abbott admits he had never been a serious runner, he was certainly not a swimmer and biked mostly for leisure before he began training for the triathlon. After enrolling in adult swimming lessons at the ELRWC and with the encouragement of Sima and Van der Poel he was able increase his swimming ability and enter into his training with confidence.

“You need a lot of support and encourage-

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ment to complete a triathlon,” says Abbott.

“It’s nice to have someone else pushing you while you’re training, especially during the running and biking part.”

Although their first race day was clouded with poor weather, Abbott and Van der Poel both managed to swim, bike and run their way to the finish line where Sima was eagerly waiting for them. In harmony, Abbott and Van der Poel both exclaim,“There was nothing like it.”

Editor’s Note Abbott and Van der Poel were placed in different swim heats for their first triathlon therefore they were unable to cross the finish line together; the pair finished in the middle of their age categories and plan to compete in another triathlon this season.

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY

AirdrieLIFE is for families

By Joan Bell

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It takes a community to raise a child, and Airdrie is definitely a community oriented towards children.

The population of Airdrie is growing at an astronomical rate, attracting many young families - you could say that Airdrie is experiencing its own mini baby boom as the number of moms and babes soars.The most recent figures indicate there are approximately 2,500 children four years and younger living in this city.

Airdrie has much to offer new moms from child care and play activities, to support groups and networks.

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One local agency that focuses on providing services to families is Airdrie Family Services (AFS).

The mission of AFS is to enrich the quality of family life and it has been doing this for more than 25 years by offering parenting resources to families.

Parent Links And You (PLAY) is a drop in program where parents and children up to age five can participate in a variety of interactive play activities. This same age group is invited every Tuesday to a drop-in program at Bethany Airdrie which allows the seniors living there to interact with the parents and children.

AFS has parent coaches available to offer parenting tips, suggestions, and support during those challenging moments when what you are doing just doesn’t seem to be working.

PHOTO BY DIANE SCAMAN

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Parent coach, Elissa Breakenridge, says there is a new program aimed at first- time parents and parents of infants aged three to 12 months named Baby Networks. This drop-in program runs Mondays from 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm and provides an opportunity for parents and infants to interact and access resources within the community.

Breakenridge also runs the Comfort, Play, and Teach registered program, which covers various child development topics each week.

Airdrie Family Services also works in conjunction with Airdrie Public Library to provide Baby Time, Toddler Time, and Family Fun Night.

AFS maintains a Toy Library and Resource Library for families.

Contact Airdrie Family Services at 945-3900 to inquire about their low-cost and free programs.

North Rocky View Community Resource Centre is available to help connect families with the resources available within the community.

Not sure where to get information and support?

Contact the Community Resource Centre at 948-0263 and they will point you in the right direction.

The cyber world has many opportunities for local moms to meet and interact. MomsAndTots.ca is

an online forum connecting moms, tots, and fun.

This website offers discussion boards, listings of local events, childcare co-ops, and forums for moms to share parenting tips.

AirdrieMommas.proboards84.com is another website that is well utilized by local moms to chat, set up play dates, find out what is happening around town, and provide support. Once registered online, you will receive invitations to meet at various locations around Airdrie and Calgary.

Meanwhile the Airdrie Moms Meetup Group has over 160 members and can be found through moms.meetup.com Playgroups abound in Airdrie. The Urban Treehouse is a great place to meet other moms and dads for coffee while the children play, participate in a craft project, or listen to a story. Urban Treehouse is a baby-friendly environment equipped with changing stations, and comfortable chairs for breastfeeding as well as microwaves. Located at 102, 960 Yankee Valley Blvd, Urban Treehouse offers a variety of activities and events for infants to seven year olds and their caregivers. Urban Treehouse is the recipient of the 2007 Winning Edge Award for best service and the Family Friendly Award.

Airdrie Stay and Play operates two sessions from September to June each year on Tuesday mornings at the C.E. Building next to Airdrie United Church. For more information contact Candace Grenkow at 945-0974.

Airdrie Yoga Studio offers Moms & Babes Yoga for infants up to one year. The class combines baby yoga, stretching, and yoga for mom in an informal environment conducive to meeting other moms. A side benefit of participating in activities with your wee one is the opportunity to form a support network with other parents. Check out the schedule online at www.airdrieyoga.com.

There are so many resources and activities for parents and small children in Airdrie.The hardest part is deciding which program to take advantage of and how many activities you can fit into your schedule.

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s’ in style

Fashion lovers rejoice.

The store is akin to the ultimate walk-in closet with custom built cabinets, crown molding and spectacular crystal chandeliers dangling from the open ceiling. New visitors to the store are enticed to browse to their hearts content on the latest fashions at shockingly reasonable prices. “I’ve had many visitors from Toronto, California and even Arizona make S’in Style a regular shopping destination because of the selection, the prices and the service we provide.” Sinstyle.ca was launched in the summer of 2007 to help these and other fashionistas keep up with the latest S’in Style offerings.

If you are an avid follower of fashion, devour your issue of Vogue, can’t wait until your next issue of Flare and know the difference between apples and Apple Bottoms then you are in luck. Airdrie is the exclusive location of S’in Style, a women’s store that has garnered the national attention of Lou Lou online and Fashion Magazine.

Owner Lisa Silvernagle has hit a niche with her fashion acumen and sourcing savvy. “I travel regularly across Canada and the US finding the right products to bring into the store,” she says.

“I hand pick each product and I only bring in one or two of the same piece to ensure that my clientele are getting an exclusive look and they are thrilled to know they won’t see their outfit on everyone.”

One of the major draws of S’in Style is the denim bar.

Silvernagle carries over 50 name brands and finds the right fit for everyone. Her knowledgeable staff provides denim fitting clinics on request for individuals and no one leaves without their “butt looking and feeling fabulous.” The personalized service creates the ultimate shopping experience especially when the staff can help clients complete an outfit with a huge selection of purses, wallets, shoes, belts and jewelry.

S’in Style has a constant flow of fashion arriving daily and then literally flying out the door so stopping in on a regular basis provides plenty of excitement and surprise for fashion fans. Of course you’ll never want to miss the next great promotion S’in Style is becoming famous for, so sign up for your email newsletter at info@sinstyle.ca

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR for March – May 2008 www.here’sthescoop.com

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MARCH 1

2

6-9

8

19

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Airdrie Koinonia Christian Schools Spring Musical.

Call 948-5100 for info

Wind in Her Sails “Newfoundland 1907. A Ship in Peril” at Bert Church Live Theatre

11

Airdrie United Church Annual Roast Beef Dinner at the Town and Country Centre

Red Hot and Cole a life story of Cole Porter at Bert Church Live Theatre

16

Airdrie Chamber of Commerce Networking Luncheon.

Call 948-4412 for more info

Sweep! Sweep! Come curl at the Mixed Spiel at the Airdrie Curling Club Uncle Phil’s Diner produced by Zem and Friends at Bert Church Live Theatre

18 - 20 Airdrie Dance Academy competes in Dance Evolution at Bert Church Live Theatre 19

Airdrie Chamber of Commerce Lunch N Learn.

Call 948-4412 for info

The Calgary Zoo presents Birds of Prey at the Airdrie Public Library at 10:30 am “Trash or Treasure?” Antique Appraisal Show at Meadowbrook Middle School. Bring in your cherished pieces and find out what they are worth.

Call 948-0599 for info

Pizazz 5 produced by Joyce Reddy Dancers and Guests at Bert Church Live Theatre

Ladies Auxiliary Community Garage Sale at the Airdrie Legion

APRIL Settle your spring fever with a free youth night at the Airdrie Public Library the last Friday of each month from 7-9:30. There is popcorn and a movie, music and video games to be enjoyed.

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20 - 23 Star Baton’s CanDance Competition at Bert Church Live Theatre

Girl Guide cookies on sale today.

Pajama night at the Library (for parents and children 4 - 8 years) - come learn child massaging techniques while listening to lullabies and stories from 7-9pm

3-6

Western AAA Bantam Hockey Championships at the Airdrie Twin Arenas

5

Hannaraptor: a one act opera for young audiences at Bert Church Live Theatre as well today bring on the Battle of the Sexes Spiel and awards banquet at the Airdrie Curling Club

6

Dan the Music Man is performing today at Bert Church Live Theatre

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The Rotary Club’s Tour de Airdrie Run in support of ending family violence.

Visit www.tourdeairdrie.com for more info

Genealogy workshop at The Airdrie Public Library.

26 & 27 The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce presents the Home & Garden Fair at the Twin Arenas See full story on page 114 27

Yodelfest 2008 at Bert Church Live Theatre

MAY Join other horticultural enthusiasts each Wednesday evening for local garden tours; contact the Airdrie Horticultural Society at 912-0559 for more details. Register for fun summer day camps with the Airdrie Boys and Girls Club at 948-3331 and register for the 2008 BMX season at www.airdriebmx.com.

1-4

Airdrie Dance Academy competes in the Dance Invasion competition at Bert Church Live Theatre

3

Alberta 4-H’s highway clean up day

3&4

Airdrie Community Choir presents the 23rd annual Lutheran Church of the Master Concert at Bert Church Live Theatre

7

Come to the Airdrie Public Library tonight and every Wednesday night from 7 – 8pm for Teen Type, a teen book discussion group

15 - 17 Airdrie Little Theatre performances at the Bert Church Live Theatre 16 - 18 Star Baton’s ADA Competition at Bert Church Live Theatre 18

Iron Horse Miniature Railway opens to the public

21

Airdrie Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting

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Cadets “Caring for Canada” day

24 & 25 16th Anniversary Recital, Follies 2008 Airdrie Dance Academy at Bert Church Live Theatre Annual City Wide Garage Sale.

Check www.heresthescoop.com for more info.

The community calendar is presented by Here’s The Scoop. www.here’sthescoop.com

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AIRDRIE HOMES community profiles

2008 Spring Community Profiles

By Alan Tennant

A

After a record setting launch to 2007, the Airdrie real estate market slowed down noticeably at mid-year but went on to close out the year with a new annual sales record. Continuing the incredible volume of sales in 2006, each of the first six months of 2007 set a monthly record. August saw the pace settle back but even then the sales volumes were only off by one unit. Not surprisingly, this strong first half of the year set expectations at a very high level so speculation started to build that the real estate bubble in Airdrie had burst – but that wasn’t the case.

The balance of the year showed sales continue at a respectable pace which surprisingly resulted in a total for the year of 1,332 properties, which was above the 2006 total of 1,019 and a new record for one year. Meanwhile in Calgary the total number of sales on the MLS was down 3 per cent in 2007 compared to 2006.

The average sale price in Airdrie for the year was $346,000, up about 19 per cent in 2007 over 2006 which was identical to the experience in Calgary where the overall average sale price was $425,912 for last year.

We closed out the year with about 300 MLS® listings on the market in Airdrie, down from an all-time high of 389 in the fall. Last year it took an average of 37 days of MLS® exposure for a home to sell in Airdrie.

Construction of new homes fell back a bit in 2007 with 851 permits issued, down from 1,036 in 2006 but still the second highest total in one year. On the other hand, multi-family permit approvals grew from 132 units in 2006 to 478 in 2007.

Predictions for 2008 are that the real estate market in Airdrie and Calgary will continue to moderate but still continue to be historically strong. Demand is expected to continue to be very healthy with prices expected to rise very moderately – hardly the definition of a bubble bursting.

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Airdrie Meadows Airdrie Meadows is a walker’s haven. Centrally located on Airdrie’s west side it’s a short walk to downtown, the malls, schools, Kinsmen Splash Park, Plainsmen Arena, the Library and more.

Average condo price $224,150 Average house price $309,937

Amberwoods Amberwoods in Luxstone is a new concept community for Airdrie with very attractive architectural features on a collection of single family and semi-attached two storey homes. Amberwoods has easy access to an abundance of indoor and outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. Amberwoods is the perfect place to raise a family while enjoying life to the fullest. Let the wide open sky and warm community spirit surround you. www.tricohomes.com and www.creationsbyshane.com

Bayside/Bayside West Bayside is one of Airdrie’s most innovative areas, thanks to an exciting blend of upscale single family homes and condos and future commercial development. Plus it’s close to the new Rocky View School Division offices and Nose Creek Elementary School.

Bayside West is all about water access. Nearly 80 per cent of all homes have private water access and nearly 50 per cent of all homes have the capability of installing private boat docks. Six kilometers of waterways are linked by walking and bike paths. www.baysideairdrie.com Average condo price $258,050 Average house price $482,354

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Living in

Harmony

THE GENESIS OF A NEW ERA IN HOME CONSTRUCTION HAS ARRIVED IN AIRDRIE. Harmony in the Canals, a new development of two-storey, luxury attached homes in the city’s unique new neighbourhood, The Canals, marks the introduction of Genesis Builders Group into the Airdrie market.

“This is the first time this builders group has come into Airdrie,” says Kiki Bhattal, marketing manager for Genesis Builders Group, which is the home building division of Genesis Land Development Corp., a company already well known for developing top-of-the-line neighbourhoods in Calgary and Airdrie.

“We like to call Harmony in the Canals the cream of the crop, because our homes are loaded with all the features any other builder would consider upgrades. All have three bedrooms with bonus rooms featuring stunning corner fireplaces … they create a warm, cozy atmosphere where the family can sit down and relax.”

Open concept is the key to Harmony. The Builders Group, under its Evolution Homes brand, has taken all the focus and careful planning that has made Genesis one of Alberta’s most acclaimed community developers and translated it into wellthought-out home designs.

“Our main floor has hardwood as standard, half-bath, L-shaped kitchens with eating ledges overlooking the great room … when you enter the house, you come across a den with French doors,” says Bhattal. “And our master bedroom is a real surprise – the

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walk-in closet is huge, plus there is a full ensuite.”

Bhattal says the layouts available in the two “Cosmo” models appeal to empty nesters and families alike. “Our homes have enough room for growing families and empty nesters will still appreciate the floorplans,” she says.

Floorplans range from 1,497 to 1,722 sq. ft. with price points starting at $339,900 including lot and GST, placing Harmony head and shoulders above similar Airdrie and Calgary developments in terms of affordability.

“Our homes also come with a six appliance package from GE, covered porches, rear decks, full landscaping in front and back, privacy fences between homes and no condo fees,” says Bhattal. “You buy the house, you open the door and you’re all set to embrace tranquility and harmony into your lives.”

Harmony in the Canals is located a quick drive from all of Airdrie’s shopping and service amenities and is close to the community’s unique six-kilometre waterway system.

Bhattal says Genesis Builders Group is striving to create the same sense of community with Harmony as its parent company has accomplished with its many award-winning developments.

For more information, visit the new showhome at 157 Canals Circle, off 8th Street W. and Bayside Boulevard, or call Lynn at 980-6697.

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Cooper’s Crossing/ Estates of Cooper’s Crossing Take a walk through Cooper’s Crossing and you’ll quickly realize why this is one of Airdrie’s most desired neighbourhoods. A well designed and beautifully landscaped six kilometer pathway system connects every corner of this hillside development.

Airdrie's most prestigious address is the Estates of Cooper’s Crossing.

Estate homes on lots up to 74 ft. wide, some backing onto beautiful green space.The show home parade features walk out lots backing into a beautiful six acre water feature. There is a selection of lots that allow for triple garages. Cooper’s Crossing has the distinction of having had Airdrie’s highest sale on the MLS® last year when a home sold for $900,000. There are several new homes being built over the million dollar range. www.cooperscrossing.ca Average condo price $366,913 Average house price $501,769

Big Springs

Downtown (Old Towne)

Big Springs is Airdrie’s most affordable neighbourhood, with a combination of starter homes in your choice of condo or townhouse style condos, single and double wide manufactured homes and single family homes.

Old Towne is the most commonly used name for the original Airdrie town proper. In addition to being centrally located residents enjoy living close to the “Tri-Schools”, the Plainsmen Arena and Splashpark and having the largest lots in town. Learn more about the exciting new condo projects planned for downtown on page 72

Average condo price $240,536 Average house price $271,569

Average condo price $174,024 Average house price $300,063

The Canals/Canals North

East Lake Park

The Canals is a water lovers dream. Peaceful blue canals wind for six kilometers and flow into a five acre lake. From starter homes and condos to some of Airdrie’s most spectacular executive homes, this is an area with lots to offer.

Renascence Developments offers life at THE edge, the edge of East Lake Park that is. Ultra contemporary condominium living.

Phase Two launches in March 2008 and offers views of East Lake Park.

Choose from one bedroom + den to two bedroom + den suites starting at in the low $200’s. www.livingattheedge.ca

The buzz about the Canals North is“suite”as many of the lots allow for condo suites above a detached garage. The area features a country cottage living architectural theme with wrap around verandas and attractive column detailing. www.canalsnorthairdrie.com Average condo price $284,352 Average house price $412,437

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Edgewater Living in Edgewater combines the advantages of being within walking distance to schools and shopping and being wrapped around some of Airdrie’s best green space. Many homes are situated overlooking Nose Creek Park, a year round gem but especially beautiful in December during the Airdrie Festival of Lights.

Average house price $322,554

Fairways Fairways features quiet, low traffic streets that meander around the west end of Woodside Golf Course and create easy access to a wide range of homes from affordable condos right up to some very exclusive homes on the golf course.

Average condo price $310,008 Average house price $455,922

Jensen Heights The Jensen family lent their name to one of Airdrie’s first sub-divisions and it still maintains a strong family feel.Thanks to being next door to the“TriSchools”(all three levels of public schools) this has long been a sought after area to live. Living options range from rental apartments to executive homes.

Average condo price $265,243 Average house price $359,380

King’s Heights Welcoming residents to the community is a dramatic entry feature that includes a custom stone façade with tree-lined boulevard. This distinctive entrance adds unique character to the community and sets the tone for the understated tranquility that King’s Heights will become synonymous with. Single family homes and condos are now available and the red carpet has been rolled out at the ten home show home parade. Watch for new show homes opening this summer. Proximity to destination shopping and commercial facilities at the emerging Kingsview Business Centre makes King’s Heights a desirable location. www.kingsheights.ca Average condo price $273,125 Average house price $425,487

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AIRDRIE HOMES community profiles

Luxstone

Morningside

Luxstone is home to several distinct areas and home ownership choices. Luxstone Landing, Westpointe and Park Place Estates with Airdrie’s first “wide lot”style community both offer excellent single family homes The town home lifestyle shows lots of potential from the sold out urban loft concept of Parkside to the Park Place Court town homes. All of these homes are nestled around a carefully landscaped nature park with water pond, soccer field and children's playground. www.luxstonepark.com

With natural beauty, higher elevated lands and east facing slopes, Morningside is a jewel nestled in the desirable SW quadrant of Airdrie adjacent to Cooper’s Crossing.

Celebrate the natural surroundings and amenities that abound in Luxstone Landing. Parklands, trails, and easy access to the nearby canal and open spaces connect home sites. School sites are safely and conveniently accessible and shopping is close at hand. www.luxstonelanding.com.

Park space and pathways are plentiful in this stunning community while state-of-the art playground equipment over looks an expansive pond. www.morningsideairdrie.com.

When finished, Morningside will have 450 single family homes and two multi family sites on 112 acres. With ten single family show homes in three parades, Morningside is sure to have a home suitable for all buyers.

Average house price $435,243 Average condo price $243,621 Average house price $393,637

Prairie Springs NEW! Mackenzie Pointe Mackenzie Pointe is a high-density community of condos with easy access to downtown and commuting to work made easy thanks to the access to 8th Avenue. Iron Horse Park is right next door. Railtown is an exciting new residential & commercial development just west of Main Street noteworthy for being a living-working-shopping destination and the first buildings in the city to be six stories in height. www.airdrierailtown.ca

Prairie Springs is touted as a community planned around family values.

The architectural guidelines of this new community located in the southwest of Airdrie are designed to showcase the serene beauty of the neighbourhood. Pathways, play areas and future ball diamonds are part of the site plan and the four show homes are open for business. Prairie Springs will ultimately contain upwards of 1700 housing units.

Housing types will range from apartments, townhouses, duplexes and various single family products, as well as estate homes. www.schickedanzwest.com/PrairieSprings

*Prices in Mackenzie Pointe are part of the Luxstone statistics.

Prairie Springs Hill NEW! Meadowbrook Meadowbrook residents enjoy a quiet setting in the south east corner of Airdrie. The pathways lead to a large central park with a play structure and connect to Meadowbrook Middle School. It’s all single family homes and they range from 1980s construction to a few years old.

Many families have started in the original Meadowbrook and moved up to the newer area – they must feel at home!

Average house price $374,891

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Prairie Springs Hill is a master planned community, part of the larger neighbourhood of Prairie Springs.This new area is comprised of single family detached homes with front garages on generously sized lots.

Three show homes are open and a variety of lots offer choices of walk outs, park backing and laned lots. www.prairiespringshill.com

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AIRDRIE HOMES community profiles

Reunion NEW! Reunion, located in northwest Airdrie not far from Hopewell’s immensely popular Sagewood, spans 150 acres and will eventually be home to 758 single family residences.

In keeping with the Reunion theme, a 5.83-acre central park greets you upon arrival to the community. Named after the family who originally homesteaded on the land, Bowen Park includes an open air pavilion, along with picnic tables and barbecues and Hopewell’s signature community bronze statue. In addition, Reunion is home to a designated church site, a public school site, two tot lots, a 4.45-acre storm pond and interconnected pathways throughout the community.

Two types of homes are available in Reunion – homes with lanes and homes with front attached garages. Reunion’s architecture will reflect the community’s theme with the time-honoured traditional styles of Craftsman, Classic, Prairie and Arts & Crafts.

Ravenswood NEW! Qualico Communities is pleased to provide design criteria for the upcoming community of Ravenswood.

This section of land, in the southeast quadrant of the City of Airdrie, was secured by Qualico with the intention of developing a vibrant new community that appeals to a wide demographic, keeping in mind affordable housing for young families and sustainability over the longterm.

Residents of Ravenswood will be within walking distance of downtown Airdire or have a short commute to the City of Calgary.And yearround they will enjoy close proximity to a wide variety of dining, shopping, entertainment, cultural and sporting attractions.

Careful consideration has been paid to envisioning a diverse, comfortable and distinctive residential community; placing parks, streets and homes in order to foster pride, and a sense of true belonging.

Architecturally, Qualico’s guidelines for Ravenswood include quaint elements that will evoke memories of the quintessential “Old English Village”. Modern materials will also be infused into the exterior detailing to ensure that we meet our mandate for low-maintenance, longterm viability.

Grand opening this August with eight delightful showhomes. Homes,

by NuVista Homes, Broadview Homes, McKee Homes and Sterling Homes.

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Interested buyers are treated to a 16 show home parade. www.ReunionAirdrie.com.

Ridgegate Many people have moved into Ridgegate and settled in. It’s a compact area with low traffic streets winding around the north end of Nose Creek Park. An easy walk to schools, the library and shopping – who would want to leave?

Average house price $347,356

Sagewood If you are looking for something fun and interesting, then Sagewood by Hopewell is for you. One of Airdrie’s most talked about areas and for good reason. This is a very well designed place for families and by the end of construction will be home to 800 families. www.sagewood.ca Average condo price $262,006 Average house price $388,473

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AIRDRIE HOMES community profiles

Silver Creek

Waterstone

Residents of Silver Creek enjoy condo living and a variety of single family home options such as coach houses (legal suites as part of the rear garages), starter homes and upscale homes backing onto the green space in the north end of the city.

One of Airdrie’s not so well kept secrets is Waterstone. Tucked away just south of Summerhill, this very popular neighbourhood is home to some of Airdrie’s finest homes backing onto Nose Creek. It’s very well designed and features lots of green space throughout. Drive through and watch for kids playing!

Average condo price $296,645 Average house price $355,257

Average house price $391,500

Stonegate

Willowbrook

Stonegate is also at the north end of Airdrie and has become very popular with young families thanks to the quiet, curving streets and play structures. Plus it’s home to condos and attached homes that blend in very nicely.

Willowbrook as its name indicates enjoys being next to Nose Creek.

From higher end homes backing onto the green space to condos and attached homes, Willowbrook is a great place to call home.

Average condo price $290,793 Average house price $366,314

Summerhill Overlooking the fountains in Nose Creek is something the residents of Summerhill really enjoy, especially in the winter when skating on the creek is very popular. This area is home to A.E. Bowers Elementary School and is next door to the Airdrie Nose Creek Valley Museum.

Average house price $311,167

Sunridge Families who call Sunridge home may be small in number but certainly large in their affection for this centrally located compact area. It’s close to Fletcher Park, the “Tri-Schools” and connects to the bike path network.

Average house price $345,286

Thorburn You’ll find a single family home in almost every price range in Thorburn however no duplexes or condos. There’s lots of green space and easy access to schools, the Twin Arenas and the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Center.

Average house price $425,558

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Average condo price $283.178 Average house price $366,385

Woodside Golf course living in Woodside is something special and it’s just as special for those residents of Woodside who don’t back onto the golf course! With many parks and easy winding streets it’s easy to see the attraction. Woodside is also home to many great options in senior and adult housing.

Average condo price $265,650 Average house price $407,533

New Community by Mattamy Homes Mattamy Homes will soon be opening an exceptional new community in south Airdrie. This will be the first community of Mattamy's Western Canada Division. Mattamy is recognized throughout North America for their attention to detail and focus on homeowner satisfaction. This new community will feature homes which present a friendly profile to the street - less garage, more windows and neighborly front porches. Homes in Mattamy's community will feature a variety of exterior styles and many attractive architectural features. For up-to-the-moment news on this new community, please visit www.mattamyhomes.com.

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AIRDRIE HOMES

A reunion of style and design

Welcome home to Reunion – Hopewell’s newest residential community in Airdrie. Located in the northwest corner of the city, Reunion features ten show homes from four talented builders. The results will make you want to return again and again. This page top: The Sabal Axiom 2 living room. Below left to right: The Jayman Branford master ensuite, Jayman’s Esprit kitchen, the Sabal Axiom 2 kitchen.

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On this page from left: the McKee Conmerra master ensuite, the Reunion show homes at night, The Excel front entrance. Below: the Jayman Kennedy kitchen.

Show home parade hours: Monday - Thursday 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm Weekends/Holidays noon - 5:00 pm

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S

Small homes and condominiums have many advantages; they cost less to heat than larger homes, residents often feel a heightened sense of security, and smaller dwellings are often more budget-friendly in the mortgage department.

But sacrificing space for these advantages does not mean that you have to sacrifice comfort and contentment.

Decorating smaller spaces is a challenge that often forces homeowners to be innovative and creative. Here are three simple steps towards living in that space you’ve always dreamt of, no matter what size it might be!

Small space – big ideas

By Stacey Carefoot

Step 1 Declutter Storage space is often limited in smaller dwellings so decluttering is essential. It’s time to get rid of anything you don’t need, haven’t used or are hanging onto without reason. Remember to recycle as much as possible during this process. But don’t automatically start filling up trash bags; remember, you can and should deliver gently used items to the numerous outlets around Airdrie that accept them. Be creative with this and use it as an opportunity to help others while you’re helping clear the way for a comfortable space.

When you’ve completed this decluttering process, create areas for storage that serve a dual purpose. Use baskets that are decorative to hide spare light bulbs, batteries and other odds and ends. Games and other stackable items can be tucked neatly into storage type coffee tables and ottomans as well. Once again, be creative.

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Step 2 Find the appropriate furnishings According to Nadine Hawkins of Airdrie-based Hawkins Interiors, smaller-scale furniture is a must when living in a small space. “It’s important to create the illusion that there’s space,” says Hawkins, and to go about that, she suggests open-legged furniture and no overstuffed sofas; in fact, Hawkins recommends no sofas at all.“Instead of a larger sofa, I would recommend loveseats, it really does make a difference,” she says. For those who like to stretch out, sleek-design, reclining loveseats could be a great option. Hawkins also recommends getting things up off the floor.“You want to create and open airy feel to every room, and having things like floor lamps and crates on the floor inhibit this,” she says.

For the bedroom, she recommends small tables at the bedside as opposed to gargantuan items. Shelving also offers another space-saving, cost-effective option. Closets in every room should be used to their maximum potential and not just for hiding clutter.

Step 3 Accessorize accordingly The items you have sitting on tables and adorning your walls can add to the feeling of openness in your space. Replacing trendy iron accessories with glass or crystal and adding a nicely framed mirror will do wonders to your small space. Small spaces often don’t have much room for decorative accessories or outlets to express your individuality but Hawkins has a solution; decorate with light.“Change out fixtures, use accent lighting to highlight certain areas of your home, and ensure you have task lighting where necessary,” she says.

Making a space cozy and inviting and even giving it a little WOW factor doesn’t have to be impossible because your space is undersized. A few small changes and a lot of creativity will go along way in maximizing your space as well as your budget. v o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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AIRDRIE HOMES

Great things to add How to end the perfect day: Chase away your worries in this sumptuous leather chaise lounge and enjoy the perfect meal at this rich dining room suite with stylish detailing on the chairs and table. Available from Airdrie Home Furnishings.

Need more time outside?

How about a few stylish accent pieces for your patio? These wrought iron pieces from Blue Grass Sod & Garden Centre are handsome additions.

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Lighten up.

This pendant lamp of blown glass is a vivid addition to any room.

Available at Exciting Lighting.

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LIFE

to your home!

Add a little spring colour to your table with bright green linens from The Store Upstairs.

Funky pieces of copper and stone add an interesting focal point to your garden or mantel. Available at Frog Hollow Garden Centre.

Rest your weary head on this luxurious leather and handsome wood carved headboard from Sova Sleep Shop.

Been floored by choices lately?

From top: exotic mahogany by Mercier, Travertine natural stone tiles, Mohawk shag in “fossil”, Centura slate listels.

All available at Airdrie Flooring Connection.

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

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Early Bird Gets The Worm You may still be thinking about shoveling that last spring dump of snow off of your driveway, but the staff at Blue Grass Nursery – Sod & Garden Centre are busy preparing for the growing season that is just around the corner.

Even while cozy in your favorite chair, you can be flipping through the 2008 Blue Grass catalogue mulling over choices for your yard and making your list of “must haves early and making a date to stop in and talk to one of Blue Grass’ expert staff.

Another plus is the experts at Blue Grass can coordinate your order and prearrange delivery when everyone else is just dusting off their shovels and wondering “What next?” Pre booking orders can save you money too. “We have pre season packages that get you ready for the season,” says Blue Grass manager Linda Pieper, “and you get the best selection options ahead of the game.” (In our climate trees can be planted anytime after May 1.)

Planning ahead means avoiding disappointment when popular favorites or hard to find cultivars sell out. By visiting Blue Grass early, you get a jump start on the general population that is waiting until the official long weekend in May to say “let’s get growing.” In fact by using the staff at Blue Grass

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ahead of the race you gain a good footing on creating the perfect landscape and are the envy of the neighbourhood.

Blue Grass is your one stop location for not just trees and plants but all your landscaping needs: rocks, mulch, garden soil and loam plus all the pieces to make the perfect pond from filters to liners to the captivating waterfall and fountain features.

Blue Grass is working on expanding their retail/greenhouse space adding over 6,000 sq. ft and Pieper has shopped extensively to bring unique statuaries, antiques and garden art, large and small, to add character and focal points to any yard. The show room is stocked fully with gorgeous planters and stunning wrought iron pieces from clocks to tables for your outdoor entertaining area Blue Grass also has a wide variety of free landscape designs that give you lay out ideas and a complete list of materials and plants you will need to make it happen – together with one on one consultation – your yard becomes the haven you always imagined.

From the hand held spade to the shade of a towering willow, Blue Grass has every aspect of your outdoor living covered – and yes of course, the best sod in the province.

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The Perfect Pond Photos and story by Donna Baltimore

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The first pond was started in 2006. Renting a sod cutter was a wise investment, it turned an all-day job into one that took about an hour. Our neighbours took all the dirt and clay we didn’t use.

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Kelly put his back into the project twice. The first pond built in 2005 was enlarged in the summer of 2007. A lot of the articles we read while doing research said “build a bigger pond than you want”.

We should have listened – we were back digging a larger hole two years later, digging by hand, to create what we now have - a 1,500 gallon pond.

We shoveled the hole in benches, down about one and half feet to level everything then a foot in from the perimeter we dug the next shelf, then another, so at it’s deepest, the water would be three feet.

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Once the hole was excavated we covered it with a protective felt underlay fabric that I highly recommend – it protects the expensive pond liner from tree roots or rocks. The liner was spread out over top and the pond filled to test depth, leveling and the overall look.

A fellow gardener suggested a trial run on the waterfall. (One of the fountains is shown being tested.) Getting the right sound for the waterfall meant playing with rocks and water pressure.

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Donna and Kelly Baltimore have created an oasis in their own backyard. Donna’s green thumb and Kelly’s muscles (someone has to dig those holes) have earned them accolades from the Airdrie Horticultural Society. Here the Baltimores share their story in photos and (wise) words.

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After the pump and filter were put in, we let the water run and settle for about a week before adding plants and fish.

We introduced ten feeder goldfish and watched them grow. They must really like the pond, by the end of summer 2007 we had a very large school of fish.

Our goal was to produce something as close to nature as possible and that meant allowing the natural ecosystem to develop. We planted numerous perennials around the water’s edge and several in the pond. Kelly built a bridge over the narrow area where the original and new pond meet.

We love relaxing on the deck during the summer, listening to the trickle of water over the rocks and watching the fish glide through the pond. Even during the winter this past season we discovered birds still flock to the open water and we find we enjoy the pond in the winter as much as the summer months.

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A closer look The Airdrie Horticultural Society Winter, thankfully doesn’t last forever, and Airdrie is home to many who spend the snow months counting down the days until they can get dirty in their gardens once again. Take, for example, the members of the Airdrie Horticultural Society (AHS).

AHS president Tyler Bradbury insists you don’t need a green thumb to be a part of his enthusiastic group.

“Most people aren’t trying to be professional: they’re here because they want to learn,” he says. With Airdrie’s climate and short growing season, the AHS gives its members a step up when it comes to gardening knowledge, support, and the creation of beautiful outdoor spaces.

By attending AHS meetings, which are held at the Agriculture Building (97 East Lake Ramp NE) the third Monday of every month, (excluding July and August), members gather and share gardening information year round. “We have a speaker for every meeting,” says Bradbury. These guest speakers vary from local individuals sharing their expertise on how to successfully divide perennials, to professional horticulturists spreading the word about good growing.

The group also ventures off on several field trips during the year.

During these trips, they are able to take in workshops and garden tours. The speakers, workshops, and tours are not solely about planting: they have also included willow furniture making, creating tin pail snowman decorations for winter, and members will also be able to attend an upcoming living picture workshop in Olds.

Yearly membership fees for this great group are minimal: $20 for individuals and $25 per family will get you into a year’s worth of meetings, a 10 per cent discount at many local nurseries, a monthly newsletter, discounts on workshops and free local garden tours. The group is particularly active during the Airdrie Home and Garden Fair, April 26 and 27 at the Airdrie Twin Arenas.

AHS members contribute a great deal to the Community Garden Showcase held each summer. This showcase is an opportunity for community members to get involved with the beautification of their own yards and spaces while contributing to the aesthetics of our city as a whole.

Bradbury also oversees the Airdrie Community Garden project where residents can rent a 20’x5’ plot of quality planting space to grow a garden in a secured area. The Community Garden is located at the southwest corner of Monklands Soccer Park.

For more information contact Bradbury at 912-0559

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One of Airdrie’s award winning gardens.

Get Growing Airdrie!

Connie Green is a local gardener who achieved her Master Gardener status from The Calgary Zoo five years ago.

She has been a member of the Airdrie Horticulture Society since its inception in 2001. Green shares her wisdom with AirdrieLIFE in time for spring.

By Stacey Carefoot

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Location, Location, Location…

“Get the location and conditions right,” says Green.“Put each plant in the light, moisture and soil conditions it prefers and it will thrive.” For example, she says, succulent plants prefer a hot, dry and sandy location. Plants that feature large green leaves should be in a moist, shady and compost-rich spot and the plants that produce large, abundant flowers should be in plenty of sunlight, in good loam. The prairie garden can be a place with extreme conditions, so getting the plants in just the right spot is very important.

free garden if you grow tidy, clumping plants that don't spread their seeds too readily. Many plants are well behaved, but if a plant has“creeping”,“spreading”,“ground cover”, or “self-seeding” in its description, it could be more trouble than it's worth.

Seek Out Local Growers…

“Try to get most of your plants from local growers, they will be hardy and your best option will be plants that do well in Zone 3,” says Green. Due to Airdrie’s higher altitude, chinook winds and dry climate our area is one of the most difficult in the country when it comes to growing a great garden. Remember to speak to a local grower and seek help when it comes to choosing the proper assortment of plant life for your garden.

Size Matters…

When it comes to mistakes made by Airdrie gardeners Green says one of the most common is not paying attention to plant size.“Gardeners don't always pay attention to the size a plant will be when it's mature and often plant them too close to each other, or to the foundation of the house,” she says.“If a plant requires space when it's full grown, plant temporary plants in the space around it,” Green also urges gardeners to shy away from planting cedars, as they are difficult to grow in our zone.“The sun in the late winter and early spring burns their tender foliage,“ she says.“Plant one of the many varieties of blue juniper instead. They can be very beautiful, especially if given a light trimming in the spring to keep them more dense.”

To Everything There is a Season…

Green recommends growing plants with winter interests, meaning perennials with showy seed heads and shrubs with coloured twigs. By doing this, gardeners are able to enjoy their yards for more than our short summer season. The inclusion of evergreen trees is also important and will continue to add life to a winter garden. “On the prairie, our winter garden is almost as important as our summer garden and can be very beautiful,” says Green.

Less Grass Equals Less Water…

Due to the fact that grass needs large amounts of water, fertilizer, herbicides and mowing, Green urges homeowners to plant less grass and more trees and shrubs.

Berry bushes that give the added bonus of fresh fruit are a great option, as are prickly pear cacti.“It is completely hardy here, enjoys our dry climate, it is a unique garden plant and mine is covered in beautiful yellow blossoms in early summer,” boasts Green of the prickly pear, one of her garden favourites.

Mind Your Mulching…

Mulching not only optimizes growing conditions for your garden, it also enhances the beauty and colours and simplifies garden maintenance.“I use my grass clippings, leaves, compost and tree trimmings from my yard to mulch around plants to keep the moisture in the soil in the heat of the summer, and I mulch over some of the more tender plants, in the winter after the ground has frozen,” says Green.“The early spring can be a difficult time for some perennials and it's best to keep light mulch in place until the freezing temperatures have come to an end.”

Good Plant Choices…

“There are so many plants that grow especially well here, in a hot dry area. Try growing Autumn Joy sedum, the pasqueflower or some giant alliums. In a little more moisture and a little less sunlight plant tall Karl Forester grass, or Siberian iris. Remember to include our prairie prize, the peony. Plant some very large ligularias in a shady moist spot, if you have the space, or a stately, Joe Pye weed. Plant a grafted weeping caragana', or my favourite, a Miss Kim lilac.

It’s All About Manners…

“Grow annuals and perennials that behave themselves”, says Green, adding you will have a more maintenance-

“Enjoy gardening with the beautiful plants that love to grow in our prairie conditions and you will have a remarkable garden,” Green concludes… making it all sound so easy!

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AirdrieLIFE is

By Alex Frazer-Harrison

Living Downtown

Artist’s rendering of Smith’s Crossing

The face of downtown Airdrie is changing as new mixed-use condominium developments transform the streetscape around Main Street.

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The new projects embrace mixed use, combining commercial with residential, and fit in well with the City of Airdrie’s 1999 Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan, says community planner Perry Neufeld.

“We’ve seen a lot of interest in mixed-use projects where at the pedestrian/vehicle level you have retail, office space, restaurants, and above that residential units,” he says. “As lifestyles change and land values change, people are looking for a different kind of living accommodation.”

Among the new projects in the pipe is Smith’s Crossing, an 18-residential-unit/three-commercial unit, four-storey project at the corner of 1st Avenue and 1st Street. Aimed at a mixture of singles and couples, the project and the location appeal to people who don’t want to have to drive everywhere, says Heather Malone, director of sales for Today’s Communities, a division of Unity Builders Group.

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“I think it ties in very well [with the redevelopment],” she says.“Airdrie is one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada and it’s capitalizing on the growth of the Calgary area, and the expansion of commercial and industrial development [in Airdrie].

“There is a need for multi-family projects at that location.”

Price points at Smith’s Crossing are expected to be competitive with similar developments in Airdrie but, starting at $224,900, still considerably less than similar developments in Calgary.

The five-storey CentrePointe is another project coming on stream in downtown Airdrie, on the corner of Centre Avenue and Main Street with presales scheduled to begin on its 40 one and two-bedroom suites in January 2008, says Richard Thompson of Medstate Developments Ltd. “CentrePointe … introduces a brand-new style of residential living to one of Canada’s fastest-growing urban centres,” he says, adding that

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Airdrie continues to appeal to homebuyers looking for an urban setting, but without having to deal with the hassles of the big city.

“CentrePointe delivers village-central living to those seeking to live a step removed from the hustle and bustle of Calgary, while still being able to walk to the coffee shop, grocery store, or bank.”

CentrePointe will include commercial space with residential suites starting at $249,000 for a one-bedroom floorplan.

“This development vaults Airdrie life to a new level,” says Thompson.

Airdrie Main Square by Quantus Developments Inc. will transform the Old Hotel site on Main Street into mixed-use residential, offering ground-floor retail and 45 residential suites on three storeys.

“The City wants people like us to come forward with this kind of project, whereby people can work in Airdrie and live in Airdrie rather than having to go to Calgary,” says Nizar Daya of Quantus.“The beauty is everything is within walking distance … you can walk to the Safeway, walk to the bank, restaurants.”

Although the original plan called for the 90-year-old hotel to be in-part

retained, a parking issue arose during planning and approval, Daya says.

“The City realizes parking is a big issue … with 45 residential units, and when you have retail, you also need some surface parking,” he says.

Even though construction isn’t scheduled to begin until early 2008, Daya says interest in the project is already strong.

“In the downtown core, you’re within walking distance to a lot of different amenities, and [with the condos] you don’t have the maintenance you would have for single-family units,” says Neufeld.“Other people are choosing a different lifestyle that places them near shopping, recreation opportunities and entertainment.”

Neufeld says the current developments fit in well with the ARP, which he says is currently being reviewed by the City.

For more information on CentrePointe, visit www.centrepointecondos.com or e-mail tony@medstate.ca. For Smith’s Crossing, visit todayscommunities.com. For Airdrie Main Square, watch for announcements coming soon.

For more information on the Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan, visit www.airdrie.ca/building_development/planning/city_plans.cfm.

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AirdrieLIFE at home…

By Stacey Carefoot

Give feng shui a try!

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Woke up late, can’t find my toothbrush, haven’t got a clue what to wear, have to be out the door in 10 minutes…where in the world are my car keys?

Does this sound familiar to you? It does to me because that’s how I live my life, from morning to night. Most days begin in a scatter and progress into a flurry until my head hits the pillow. I’ve sought out many solutions to my flighty way of life and most recently in my constant quest for an organized calm state of being I decided to give the ancient practice of feng shui a try.

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If your home is located at the end of a cul-de-sac or has a road running directly at it, position a mirror facing the road to redirect the energy.

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Front and back doors should not be in a straight line.

The first step was to find help. The Airdrie Public Library was a great place to start. I was able to find a heap of books on decorative feng shui, feng shui history and feng shui principles. After thumbing my way through page after page of confusion I decided when it comes to feng shui, self-guidance wasn’t exactly for me.

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Instead I turned to Airdrie’s very own feng shui practitioner, Lynn Abrams. Abrams has been practicing feng shui for the past 10 years and learned the art from Calgary based feng shui master Dr. David Lai. “Feng shui is not a religion, superstition, or magic,” says Abrams alluding to the fact that she may not be able to provide me with a magic cure to my perpetual state of spontaneity.“What feng shui essentially is, is a formula that uses time and space to manage energy.”

Using a compass and taking into consideration the year the home was built and the birthdates and names of the individuals residing inside the home Abrams follows an ancient process of reading the slope of the land, finding the areas of the home that affect wealth, health and relationships. Using the five elements of fire, wood, water, earth, and metal, she determines which elements to use where.“Each home is different,” she says; there is no cookie cutter solution to creating a feng shui friendly home.

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Abrams does, however, offer these tips that can help bring better ch’i (the circulating life energy that in Chinese philosophy is thought to be inherent in all things,) to your home… and hopefully mine!

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Stairs should not go directly down to a door.

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The stove and sink should not be opposite.

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A toilet should not face a bed.

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Always have a solid wall behind the bed.

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If you sit at a desk with your back to the door, position a mirror on your desk to redirect energy.

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There should be no exposed beams above your bed or where you sit.

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Be careful where you use the colour red: it represents fire.

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Keep the main entrance clean: no shoes or clutter.

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Clean clutter from house as it blocks the flow of ch’i from moving freely.

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Real plants should be used as opposed to dried arrangements.

-Lynn Abrams is an Airdrie resident working in new home sales. She has completed feng shui consultations on more than 80 homes and offices. She can be contacted at 510-0357 for more information.

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Take a cue from the Airdrie Horticulture Society’s “Best Curb Appeal” winner.

How to make a good first impression

By Stacey Carefoot

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We all know that first impressions are everything when it comes to selling your home. As homeowners we may have the tendency to focus a lot of time on upgrading and polishing the interior of our homes before listing with an agent but we may overlook one of the most important aspects of marketing a home: curb appeal.

“If you were selling a vehicle, you would prepare that vehicle for sale by having it detailed, serviced and ready to market,” says Re/Max Realtor Carrie Peddie.“The investment of time and money to fully prepare a house for sale will ensure you are maximizing your equity.

A small investment ahead of time can net a better return than any stock market.”

Peddie suggests starting to spruce up the exterior of a home by moving unsightly items such as garbage cans out of view and properly disposing of scraps and junk either to the waste transfer station or the recycle depot. She also stresses the importance of checking gutters and roofs for dry rot and moss and ensuring they are swept and cleaned.

Ann Burt, an Airdrie based home appraiser, also suggest taking a look at shingles.“Ensure your shingles are in good shape,” she says.“Look for cracks and lifting, as well as missing shingles. If you do find your roof in disrepair it’s important to have the problems rectified as soon as possible.” Burt adds shingles in proper repair help to identify a well-cared for dwelling.

Peddie says there are three things she believes owners should do to enhance their own curb appeal and net top dollar when selling their homes:

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1. Keep the yard looking freshly mowed, raked and in the winter ensure that the snow is always shoveled. Although extravagant landscaping can be attractive, it’s not in everyone’s budget. Simple things that can be done without breaking the bank include pruning back bushes and trees, keeping and shrubbery from blocking windows and doors, removing dead plants and weeding all areas. Fresh mulching material is also an inexpensive way to give your garden areas a new lease on life.

2. Do a clean sweep of your outside entrance. Clean off the porch, deck and walkways, ensure garbage and recycling are tucked out of sight and consider hanging a potted plant at the entrance to set the tone and to welcome people to your home.

3. Demolish dirt! Scrub the front door, porch, outside rails and steps.

This is less expensive than repainting and makes a world of difference.

Once you’ve properly cleaned the outside areas of your home, then you can decide if paint is necessary.

From a home-appraisal perspective,Ann Burt reminds potential homesellers to ensure that all fencing is in the proper state, not leaning over or missing boards and if a home is finished with siding that the siding is intact and in good condition.

With an increasing number of homes on the Airdrie market it’s important for sellers to find ways to get an edge up on their competition. It may take only a few hours or even weeks to create a better first impression but there’s no denying that increasing your home’s curb appeal will improve your bottom line…not to mention your relationship with your neighbours.

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Amanda Tozser is always making people cry, although she doesn’t mean to.

She’s the nicest person and has the kindest smile, but when she comes into your home and sparks her magic, you’re bound to shed a tear or two. Tozser is an artist who shares her gift with homeowners either by painting murals or drawing graphite sketches that, when complete, will take your breath away and probably make you cry tears of joy that is.

PHOTO BY KRISTY REIMER

“A lot of portraits are emotional,” says Tozser when describing how she on more than one occasion has sketched a newborn in the arms of a grandparent who has passed on before the baby’s birth.“It’s such a good feeling to do something for people that they appreciate, it’s just what I do.” She was once commissioned to sketch the child of a Calgary couple who passed away at the age of seven. At the end of this assignment she was able to provide the family with seven different drawings of their son depicting his time spent on earth.

Bringing walls to life

By Stacey Carefoot

“Most of the portraits I have done are sentimental.You can tell if the client is happy by their reaction.” Many of her drawings are so realistic that they could easily be confused with black and white photography.

Tozser, a University of Saskatchewan graduate began her art career by painting murals for a large company in Saskatoon. She traveled across Western Canada for a period of time, commissioned to paint window displays to promote upcoming movies. Through this experience she honed in on her amazing talent to freehand popular characters and to also create characters from her own imagination.

She has brought this talent into countless homes by painting scenes (mostly for children) in bedrooms and toy rooms throughout Calgary. Since moving to Airdrie just shy of a year ago, she’s taking her flair into the homes of Airdronians.“I love to see the look on kids faces when they see their rooms,” she explains.

Tozser freehands her way into the hearts of her clients by creating images of their favorite heroes and fantasy characters.

“If the kids are there, I want them to be involved,” she says. Her love of children is evident as she has four girls of her own.

So, whether you’re considering a couple of small characters on the wall or transforming an entire room into something magical, Tozser may be who you’re looking for. Be careful though, she might make you cry!

Tozser can be reached at 980-6715. v o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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AIRDRIE CITY

AirdrieLIFE is…happening at City Hall City Hall has two complete floors which include Council Chambers, the office of the Mayor, the office of the city manager, meeting rooms, staff office space and the reception area. Friendly and professional customer service personnel are on hand to deal with any inquiries or questions you may have.

City Hall Customer Service Hours: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Airdrie City Hall is located at: 400 Main Street, SE, Airdrie AB T4B 3B4 (403) 948-8800

Airdrie City Council (left to right back row): Marlene Weaver, Linda Bruce, Fred Burley (left to right front row): Richard Siemens, Kelly Hegg, Glenda Alexander and Shawn Howard

Payments: • Taxes • Ambulance • Garbage Tags

• Utilities • Dog Licenses • Business Licenses

Services: • Economic Development • Building Permits

• Planning and Development • Community Services

Council Meetings City Council meetings occur on the first and third Monday of each month. Meetings are open to the public and are called to order at 7:00 pm in Council Chambers. If a scheduled meeting falls on a holiday, the meeting is held on the Tuesday of the same week.

Looking for City of Airdrie news, information and events?

AirdrieToday eNewsletter Sign-up for the City of Airdrie monthly eNewsletter, AirdrieToday and keep up-to-date on any city events, news and information affecting your life. www.airdrie.ca

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AirdrieLIFE is… environmentally focused Recycling Depot 2 Bag limit • Each house in Airdrie is allowed two units of waste (22”x36”) • Larger bags are counted as 2 units • If you have more than 2 units, you can put it out at the curbside if it displays an extra garbage sticker.

• One garbage sticker per unit up to a max of five units in total per household.

• Garbage tags can be purchased for $2 at City facilities Recycle Depot 15 East Lake Hill Phone: (403) 948-0246 Email: environmental.services@airdrie.ca Website: www.airdrie.ca/recycling_waste Winter Hours October 1 - April 30 Monday and Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 9 am – 8 pm Thursday – Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm Extended Summer Hours May 1 - September 30 Monday and Tuesday: Closed Wednesday – Friday: 9 am – 8 pm Saturday and Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm Statutory Holiday Hours Call to confirm.

(403) 948-0246 Why We Take the Materials We Do The City of Airdrie tries to recycle as much as possible. Some materials do not have an established market; process to deal with it; or is too cost prohibitive for recycling. This makes collection, transportation or processing too expensive.

Why We Separate Material The City of Airdrie asks residents to separate materials when you come to the Depot. Here are some of the reasons why: • To keep costs reasonable. If you don’t sort the materials, the City of Airdrie would have to pay someone else to do it for us.

• Material markets demand it. When materials are recycled they become a resource feedstock for a manufacturing process and many processes cannot deal with contamination (unauthorized material).

• Ensure full value is received. If the material is too contaminated then the value may be downgraded or it may not be accepted at all.

This means all the collecting is for nothing and the load has to go to the landfill.

Materials accepted at the recycling depot • Newspaper • Plastic milk jugs • Phone books • Plastic lids & caps • White office paper • Propane tanks • Televisions • Aerosol cans • Book exchange • Cell phones • Household metal • Used clothing • Used oil filters • Vehicle batteries • Used oil and containers • Plastic – #1, #2, and #5 • Mixed coloured paper & magazines • Plastic shopping bags • Used antifreeze and antifreeze containers • Coloured & clear glass • Cardboard milk cartons • Computers & peripherals • Rechargeable batteries • Cardboard & boxboard

Taking materials to the Depot is the first step in a long process of getting materials recycled.

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The following items are NOT accepted at the Recycling Depot: • Styrofoam • Waxed cardboard • Tires • Wood • Tree branches • Sod • Drywall Recycling Tips 1. Please place all items in the appropriately labelled bins 2. Ensure recyclables are clean and separated properly

Some items are made of more than one type of recyclable material, so please ensure each part is placed in the correct bin. Clean materials are easier to sell and generate higher revenue.

3. The Depot is not a dumping station for garbage

Dumping of garbage at the Recycling Depot adds to operational costs.

Seasonal Programs Toxic Round Up / Paint Exchange

Runs May 1 - September 30 Community Composting Runs May 1 - October 31 Garbage Collection A unit of waste is a garbage bag up to 26” x 36” or a garbage can from 70 to 100 litres.

What if I have more than two units?

Larger bags or cans are counted as two units.

Oversize bags are considered one and a half units. Each resident is allowed to place two units of waste at the curb for pick-up.

Additional units may be placed at the curb if it displays an extra garbage sticker. A total of 5 units are allowed per household.

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Garbage stickers can be purchased by Airdrie residents at the following locations:

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Statutory Holidays

Lead-acid (auto/boat)

The City of Airdrie Toilet Replacement Program If you replace your old 20 litre or 13 litre toilet with a low flow model from the City of Airdrie’s eligible toilet list, you will receive a credit on your water bill from the city.

Clean Fill

Dual flush models -

Loam, clay, asphalt and concrete

$100.00 credit per toilet replaced

Scrap Metal

6 litre models -

$50.00 credit per toilet replaced

Location:

Car parts, appliances, hot water tanks, BBQs, etc.

Six km west on Highway 567 next to the rodeo grounds

Refrigerators/freezers Clean Wood

To be eligible for the credit you must be replacing a 20 or 13 litre toilet with a toilet from the eligible toilet list. This ensures you will be purchasing a reliable low flow model based on national testing standards. If you purchase a toilet not found on the eligible toilet list you will not be eligible for the credit.

• • • • •

City Hall (400 Main Street) Recycle Depot (15 East Lake Hill) Public Works (15 East Lake Hill) Airdrie Public Library (111, 304 Main St.) East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre (800 East Lake Blvd.)

Transfer Site

The Transfer Site is run on a user-pay system.

The residential garbage utility does not support the operation of the Waste Transfer Site and it is not supported through general tax base. Please call for rates.

• Phone: (403) 948-0246 Winter Hours

October 1 - April 30 Saturday, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm Sunday - Friday – CLOSED Extended Summer Hours

May 1 - October 1 Friday, 3:30 – 7:30 pm Saturday, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm Sunday, 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm Monday - Thursday – CLOSED

Call to confirm.

Transfer Site Accepts: Automobile Batteries

Residential construction material, trees, fences, tree limbs, shrubs and bushes (free of cloth, metal wire, etc.)

Tires Household Waste

Wire, mattresses, old furniture, shingles, etc.

Propane Tanks

How To Sort Please sort all loads into the groups indicated above prior to arrival at the site.

Visit the City of Airdrie website at www.airdrie.ca or call Environmental Services at (403) 948-0246 for more information on the Toilet Replacement Program

The Transfer Site does not accept pesticides, herbicides, paint or other chemicals and/or their containers. These items should be taken to the Recycle Depot during Toxic Roundup (May 1 – September 30).

Residential Garbage Collection Schedule MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Bayside Coopers Crossing Luxstone Morningside Prairie Springs

Airdrie Meadows Edgewater Old Town (Village) Ridgegate Summerhill Waterstone Jensen

Big Springs Meadowbrook King’s Heights Thorburn

Canals Sagewood Willowbrook

Fairways Main Street Trailer Park Silver Creek Stonegate Sunridge Woodside

Garbage must be out by 7:00 am for pick-up!

Condominium complexes and apartments are not charged for residential collection; therefore, they are not eligible for door to door pick-up.

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On the move Airdrie Transit has made several changes based on research making the service more efficient for transit patrons.

Evening Service – Dial-a-Bus Provided on a shared public/special needs basis Monday – Friday: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

• Change in routes to ensure 40 minute frequency • An addition of another bus route focusing in the central area, connecting all routes west/east and north/south • Decrease in transit fee to $2 for a single cash fare (already implemented)

Saturday Dial-a-Bus Service Provided on a shared public/special needs basis 9:00 am – 10:00 pm

Public Transit: Route 1 West: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm Route 2 Central: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm Route 3 East: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm Special Needs Transit – Airdrie Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Special Needs Transit – Calgary Tuesday – Thursday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

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For a complete schedule visit www.airdrie.ca

The City will be looking into future service cost efficiencies and exploring available grant funding for the purchase of buses, expanded fuel storage and using bio-diesel. These factors may reduce the hourly service cost.

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Health and Wellness Resources at Airdrie Public Library Urgent Care The Airdrie Community Health Centre has seen some significant changes over the past year and is now home to another critical component of the City’s infrastructure. On Monday December 3, 2007 the doors swung open on the long awaited, much needed Airdrie Urgent Care Centre. Since opening, the care center has helped hundreds of individuals suffering from broken bones, fevers and numerous other non-emergent conditions.

The first of two phases, the Airdrie Urgent Care Centre is currently designed to treat more than 30,000 patients on an annual basis. The Care Centre is open from 8:00 am 10:00 pm seven days per week and is set up to take on non-life threatening health conditions.

LOCATION: 604 Main Street South, Airdrie PHONE: 948-1298 HOURS OF OPERATION: 8:00 am -10:00 pm seven days per week Ambulances responding to medical situations in Airdrie will still transport patients to hospital emergency rooms in Calgary. Airdrie residents are reminded to call 911 in the case of serious or life threatening medical emergencies.

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“Do you have any information on chronic arthritis?”

“My doctor has prescribed a new drug. How can I find out about the side effects?”

“Do you have any books on alternative medicine and natural cures?”

Questions such as these are frequently asked across the Information Desk at the Airdrie Public Library. Interest in consumer health is at an all-time high and the proliferation of health information on the Internet has turned us all into amateur doctors and pharmacists.

Luckily, our real doctors have the final say in our diagnosis and treatment.

It’s natural for us to want to know more about our own health and with so much easily accessible information out there, the temptation to “Google” our symptoms is hard to resist.

That’s where the public library can help. The library can provide you with current, reliable information and staff members are ready and willing to help you in your search.

Airdrie Public Library’s membership in the Marigold Library System gives you access to literally thousands of items on health-related topics. Whether it’s preventative medicine, the latest on aging, stress-related illnesses, meditation and yoga, diet and exercise, naturopathy, chronic pain, holistic health and more, you can find information at the APL. Books, CDs, audio books and DVDs are all rich sources of health information available for research and loan. By far the most current sources for health information found at the library are in the form of subscription databases. These databases are available online at the library’s website and can be accessed from home as well as in the library. Currently the library subscribes to several different health databases including: • ALT Health Watch: Information on alternate, holistic and integrated approaches to health care and wellness, including many peer-reviewed journals.

• Health Source Consumer: The richest collection of consumer health information available to libraries worldwide. Features searchable full text for nearly 300 journals. Topics include medical sciences, food sciences and nutrition, childcare, sports medicine and general health.

• Health Source Nursing/Academic: Provides more than 550 scholarly full text journals focusing on many medical disciplines.

• MEDLINE: Provides authoritative medical information on medicine, nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine, the health care system, pre-clinical sciences and much more.

For further information on the Airdrie Public Library and its services, visit the Library’s website at: www.airdriepubliclibrary.ca.

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AirdrieLIFE is… enhanced with support • Airdrie Food Bank provides short-term food assistance to residents of Airdrie and outlying communities. www.airdriefoodbank.com or 948-0063 • Airdrie Meals on Wheels provides regular nourishing meals to help people to remain healthy and independent in the comfort of their own homes 815-1400 or 948-6639

• Alberta Mentor Foundation for Youth (AMFY) helps junior and senior high school students achieve their full potential through supportive in-school mentoring relations. Call 945-2535 or www.amfy.org

• AWSBA – Airdrie Women in Small Business Association provides support for women in small business. Meetings held once a month www.airdriewomen.ca

• North Rocky View Community Resource Centre is your “gateway to the community” providing: individual/family crisis support, intake/assessment/referrals, avenues to basic needs and much more. Please call 948-0263, toll free 1-866-912-7272, or e-mail ask@yourcrc.com or drop by our office at 112 – 1st Ave NW, Airdrie (Provincial Building). We are open until 8:00 pm on Thursday evenings.

• Airdrie & District Victim Assistance provides support and information for victims of crime and tragedy. www.airdrievictimassistance.com or 948-3468

• Airdrie Seniors Outreach Program enables seniors to remain healthy and engaged in the community by linking seniors, information and resources. www.airdrieseniors.com or 316-9955

• Airdrie Family Services Counseling Program prevents personal and family breakdown, enhances the abilities of individuals and families to constructively manage their lives and enriches the quality of family life. www.airdriefamilyservices.ca or 945-3900

• FREE Coffee socials for families raising children with disabilities: Includes childcare, music therapy and information sessions. Fourth Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. To register call Children’s Link at 948-0263

• Rocky View School Division Family School Liaison Program provides social support services to children and families in Airdrie by working with school staff and community agencies. www.rockyview.ab.ca or 945-4000

• Parent Link Centre: Airdrie Family Services and the North Rocky View Community Resource Centre have collaborated in the opening of a new Airdrie & Area Parent Link Centre. The services and programs are intended to promote family wellness and provide support for families of young children, helping them to connect with the appropriate resources to meet their needs. 948-0263 or 945-3900.

• Airdrie Family Services Family Resource Program supports families towards the goal of optimum family functioning www.airdriefamilyservices.ca or 945-3900 • Airdrie Boys & Girls Club offers safe and accessible social, educational and recreational programs for youth. www.abgc.8m.com or 948-3331 • R. J. Hawkey Breakfast Program cares for students who have needs for personal, social and/or nutritional support outside their homes on school day mornings. 948-3939 • Airdrie Family Services Out of School Care Program decreases the number of Airdrie children left unsupervised by helping families in financial need who are working, attending educational institutions, or who have special needs. www.airdriefamilyservices.ca or 945-3900

Distress Centre 24-HR CRISIS LINE: AADAC – Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission: Airdrie Mental Health: Airdrie Regional Health Centre and Urgent Care Centre: Bethany Care Centre Airdrie: Calgary Rocky View Child & Family Service: Closer to Home: Block Parents Association Airdrie Employment Services Credit Counselling Services of Alberta: Rocky View Adult Literacy Program:

266-1605 912-3306 948-3878 912-8400 948-6022 912-4758 948-9776 948-0111 948-9711 265-2201 948-6556

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A closer look

Airdrie Meals on Wheels Society: “A Community Service on Wheels”

By Ellen Kelly

These welcome deliveries consist of a hot entrée, soup, salad, sandwich, and dessert and are actually two meals; one for lunch and the other saved for later in the day.

Meals are delivered Monday to Friday and can be ordered in advance for weekends and holidays.

in Airdrie is on the rise: between March and December of 2007, the number of regular clients rose from seven to 23.

Referrals come from family members, hospitals, and social agencies.

Keeping meals affordable is always a challenge. The program is jointly funded by the Municipal and Provincial Social Enhancement Program and the Airdrie Meals of Wheels Society is grateful for both individual and corporate donations.

The service has both long - and short term clients, including senior citizens, people with disabilities, those recovering from injury or illness, people whose regular caregivers are away and others with a special need. In addition diabetic diets and allergies can be accommodated in the meal plans.

“Finding an ongoing meal supplier is the program’s biggest obstacle,” says president Sharon Rode. Since March 2007, the Best Western Regency Inn in Airdrie has prepared and packaged meals and has had them ready for delivery by 11:00 am each day. Rode explains that in large centres, meals are often prepared in hospital kitchens, but in Airdrie, meal preparation depends on a strong commitment from a commercial kitchen in the community.

Demand for service from Meals on Wheels

Volunteer meal distributors also keep an

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eye on their clients. Each meal recipient has an emergency contact number and the program often refers clients to other services in the community such as the Airdrie Seniors Outreach Program and the North Rocky View Community Resource Centre.

“It is part of our service to get clients in touch with the right people,” says client liaison Lola Gilchrist.

Airdrie Meals on Wheels is staffed entirely by volunteers. Drivers deliver one day per week for an entire month, but only every second or third month. Depending on the number of clients, whether any need extra attention, and road conditions, the time commitment is approximately two hours.

“We don’t want our volunteers to burn out,” says Gilchrist, “so more are always welcome.” Volunteers require an RCMP security check and delivery volunteers need their own vehicle. Other opportunities, such as board positions, newsletter writers, etc. are also needed. For more information on meals or volunteer opportunities, contact 815-1400

PHOTO BY KRISTY REIMER

Airdrie Meals on Wheels delivered its first meal on May 2, 1983, and has been going strong ever since. Over the last quarter-century, their mandate has remained constant: to support independent living by preparing and delivering nutritious affordable meals to people in need.

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AirdrieLIFE is active!

Whatever your recreational pursuits, Airdrie is sure to have an organized group for you to join.

Sports Groups Airdrie BMX Association Carolyn Croft/Tim Croft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .912-2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriebmx.com Airdrie Bowling Club - Youth/Adult/Senior Leagues 805 East Lake Blvd, Airdrie AB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-3404 • fax: 948-4685 Airdrie Curling Club 275 Jensen Drive NE, Airdrie, AB, T4B 2B8 Booking Information: Gary Ritchie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-7100 Club/Pro Shop: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-7100 Concession: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-0602 Airdrie & District Soccer Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-6260 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriesoccer.com Airdrie & District Recreation Complex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-4242 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrieagsociety.com Airdrie Chinook Winds Baseball Association Dennis Driscoll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-7387 Airdrie Dance Academy 291070 Yankee Valley Road Susan Laing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-5530 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriedance.ca Airdrie Edge Gymnastics Club Twin Arena Complex, Airdrie, Alberta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-7769 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrieedge.com Airdrie Extreme Athletics Shannon Howorko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .912-1364 Airdrie Girls Softball Association Nancy Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-2811 Airdrie Judo Club Paul Hachey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .592-0918 Airdrie Ju-Jitsu Daniel Verzotti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .239-9467 cell: 607-0621 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.members.shaw.ca/goshindo

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Airdrie Ladies Fastball League P.O. Box 5314, Airdrie Alberta, T4B 2T9 Linda Raymond . . . . . . . . . . . .948-4699 Airdrie Little League Box 3885, Airdrie, AB, T4B 2B9 Sherry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-1030 . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrielittleleague.com

PHOTO BY DIANE SCAMAN

Airdrie Minor Basketball Colin McKenna . . . . . . . . . . . . .945-1010 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriebasketball.ca Airdrie Minor Hockey Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .912-2680 . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrieminorhockey.ca Airdrie Mixed Industrial Slo-Pitch Ray Frederick . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-1339 Airdrie Nutty Housewife Hockey Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Airdriehl2003@shaw.ca Airdrie Ringette Association Box 3086, Airdrie, AB, T4B 2B4 Charles Wardell . . . . . . . . . . . .912-4660 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrieringette.com Airdrie Skating Club Plainsmen Arena, Airdrie, Alberta Coach Joanne . . . . . . . . . . . . . .945-2421 Richelle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .912-0331 . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrieskatingclub.com Airdrie Storm Football (Bantam) . . . . . . . . . . . . .airdriestorm@hotmail.com . . . . . . . . . . . .www.eteamz.com/airstorm Airdrie Tae Kwon Do Airdrie Tae Boxing Academy of Champions 536 - 2nd Avenue, Airdrie, AB, T4B 2C2 Everald Wright, Master Instructor Level #3, 5th Dan Black Belt E-mail . . . . . . . .airdrietkdandkb@shaw.ca Airdrie Thunder Junior Hockey Club 80 Waterstone Cres, Airdrie, Alberta, T4B 2E5 Frank McEvoy, President & General Manager . . . . . . . . . .948-7511 fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .912-1762 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriethunder.com

Airdrie Volleyball Club Jim Kramer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-3367 Airdrie Yoga Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .945-1825 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrieyoga.com Ambition Arts Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .912-3203 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ambitionarts.com Badminton Club Chris Gardner . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-6642 Flying Tiger Martial Arts Academy Andrew Erickson . . . . . . . . . . . .945-0800 Goshindo Karate / Airdrie J.K.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .239-9467 Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .607-0621 E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . .dverzotti@shaw.ca . . . . . . .www.members.shaw.ca/goshindo

Kensho Karate Club 16 C East Lake Green N.E. Airdrie, AB T4A 2J2 Head Instructor: Ian Scully . . . . .912-1903 E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .kensho@shaw.ca Nose Creek Swim Association (Airdrie Competitive Swim Club) Mail: NCSA, Beddington Postal Outlet, Box 51002, Calgary, Alberta T3K 3V9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .208-5353 Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .208-5355 . . . . .http://members.shaw.ca/ncsaswim/ Star Baton & Dance Company Mandy Yip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-9999 E-mail . . . . . . . . . .mandy@starbaton.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.starbaton.com Rockyview Lacrosse Association Sergio Falzi sfalzi@calgarypolice.ca . . . . . . . . . . .www.rockyviewlacrosse.com

Horizon Taekwon-Do Aron Johnston . . . . . . . . .912-6TKD (853) E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . .horizontkd@shaw.ca

Woodside Golf Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .686-4653 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.woodsidegc.com

Imeson Highland Dancers Head Instructor: Jessica Imeson . .701-0726 E-mail . . . . . . . . . .jessicai@pfscalgary.com

Synchro Stars Club Gay Lynn Fox . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-9439

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AIRDRIE CITY Service Organizations #88 Royal Air Cadet Squadron A/Captain Carol Hartwick . . . .948-7788 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .cell 880-3253 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriecadets.net #3016 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps Commanding Officer . . . . . . . . .710-7363 Airdrie Boys and Girls Club . . . . .948-3331 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.bgcairdrie.com Airdrie Chamber of Commerce . . .948-4412 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriechamber.ab.ca Airdrie & District Special Olympics Kim Nicolas Box 5024, Airdrie .912-7842 Airdrie Festival of Lights Society . .912-9627 Airdrie Girl Guides Dawn Gilchrist . . . . . . . . . . . . .946-4262 Airdrie Mentor Foundation for Youth Leanne Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .945-2535 Airdrie Regional Arts Society (ARAS) Greg McRitchie . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-4080 Airdrie Scouts 1st - Dwayne . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-0181 2nd - Bert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-5016 4th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-5243 6th - Bea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-3719 . . . . . . . . . . . .Email: Chinook@scouts.ca

AirdrieLIFE is involved

Airdrie residents take great pride in their community involvement – it’s a great way to meet people and make life-long friends.

Airdrie Breakfast Club Bonnie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-2121 Alberta 4-H Rob Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-8501 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.info@4h.ab.ca Ducks Unlimited Keith Wilson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .863-4363 Friends of the Library Fred Burley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-2778 Junior Forest Wardens Gary Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . .237-1652 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriejfw.ca Kinsmen Club Don Scottman . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-6519

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Knights of Columbus Mike Perri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-5160 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrieknights.ca Lions Club Dan Mckinnon . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-5447 Nose Creek Valley Museum . . . . .948-6685 Optimist Club Bill Hope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-5207 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.optimist.org Probus Club of Airdrie Bob Harriman . . . . . . . . . . . . .945-0663 . . . . . . . . . .www.probus.org/7airdrie.htm Rotary Club Susanne Evans . . . . . . . . . . . . .316-9976 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.clubrunner.ca/airdrie Royal Canadian Legion . . . . . . . .948-3000

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Hobby and Leisure Airdrie Artists Guild Tami Hort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .668-4118

Bert Church Theatre . . . . . . . . . . .948-2153 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrie.ca/arts

Airdrie Community Choir Christine Waldner . . . . . . . . . .980-0071 . . . . . . . .www.airdriecommunitychoir.org.

Pegasus Pony Club Brenda Wise . . . . . . . . . . . . . .935-2382

Airdrie Horticultural Society Tyler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 912-0559 . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriehortsociety.com Airdrie Family Theatre Tony Belland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .945-1717 . . . . . . . .tony.belland@olddutchfoods.com Airdrie Little Theatre Rob Christie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .807-1894 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .rdchristie@shaw.ca Airdrie Public Library . . . . . . . . .948-0600 . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdriepubliclibrary.ca

Rockyview Ramblers Square Dance Club Hilda Fletcher . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-4181 The Over 50 Club Niel Ellison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-4207 Toastmasters Joseph Schluter . . . . . . . . . . . . .946-5553 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.toastmasters.org Windy Ridge Riders Donna Normdon . . . . . . . . . . . .946-5842 Woodside Seniors Club . . . . . . . .948-4088

Airdrie Rodeo Ranch Association Box 3663, Airdrie, Alberta, T4B 2B8 Clint McLeod or Sylvia Kerr . . . .948-0512 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.airdrieprorodeo.net

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SPRING 2008 SCHEDULE East Lake Recreation & Wellness Centre Ph: (403) 948 - 8804 • website: www.airdrie.ca Effective January 2 - June 30, 2008 CUSTOMER SERVICE- call 948 - 8804 ext. 550

MONDAY 5:30 am - 10:00 pm

TUESDAY 5:30 am - 10:00 pm

WEDNESDAY 5:30 am - 10:00 pm

5:30 am - 10:00 pm

5:30 am - 10:00 pm

5:30 am - 10:00 pm

THURSDAY 5:30 am - 10:00 pm

FRIDAY 5:30 am - 10:00 pm

SATURDAY 7:00 am - 9:00 pm

SUNDAY 7:00 am - 9:00 pm

7:00 am - 9:00 pm

7:00 am - 9:00 pm

FITNESS CENTRE- call 948 - 8804 ext. 517

5:30 am - 10:00 pm

5:30 am - 10:00 pm

CHILDCARE Prebooking of child care is required - call 948 - 8804 ext. 512

8:30 am - 2:00 pm 5:00 - 8:00 pm

8:30 am - 2:00 pm 5:00 - 8:00 pm

8:30 am - 2:00 pm 5:00 - 8:00 pm

8:30 am - 2:00 pm 5:00 - 8:00 pm

8:30 am - 1:15 pm

8:45 am - 11:45 pm

GYMNASIUM To confirm open gym times - call 948 - 8804 ext. 550

6:45 - 8:00 pm Gym B

6:45 - 8:15 pm Gym A

3:30 - 5:00 pm Gym A

6:45 - 8:15 pm Gym A

7:00 - 8:30 pm Gym A

12:30 - 2:30 pm Gym A

2:30 - 4:00 pm Gym A

AQUATIC & AEROBIC DROP-IN FITNESS CLASSES NO CLASSES: January 1- 4, February 16 - 18, March 21 - 24

MONDAY 5:45 - 6:30 am 8:00 - 8:45 am 8:45 - 9:30 am 9:15 - 10:15 am

(If attendance in drop in classes is less than 6 for 3 consecutive weeks, classes may be discontinued) TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY Deep Water Running Deep Water Running

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Deep Water Running Deep Water Running Aquafit Butts & Gutts

Light Step

Aquafit 20/20/20

Circuit

Aquafit Core Power Fit Over Fifty Older Adult Aqua Deep Water Running

Variety 10:20 - 11:05 am 11:15 am - 12:00 pm Older Adult Aqua Older Adult Aqua 12:15 - 1:00 pm Deep Water Running Deep Water Running Nooner 5:15 - 6:15 pm Butt & Gutts 5:30 - 6:15 pm Deep Water Running Deep Water Running 5:30 - 6:30 pm Butts and Gutts 6:15 - 7:00 pm Deep Water Running Deep Water Running 6:30 - 7:30 pm Above & Beyond Body Blast Tae Box 6:45 - 7:45 pm Cardio Chaos 8:00 - 8:45 pm Deep Water Running Deep Water Running PLEASE NOTE: 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, steam room or before making use of the water slide.

AQUATIC HOURS Fall 2007 (Sept 4 - Dec 31, 2007)

MONDAY 2:00 - 4:00 pm 8:00 - 9:30 pm Family Swim 9:00 am - 2:00 pm 6:30 - 8:00 pm Lane Swim 5:30 am - 5:00 pm 7:30 - 9:30 pm Hot Tub, Steam Room 5:30 am - 9:30 pm Tot Pool 5:30 am - 9:30 pm Open Public Swim

TUESDAY 2:00 - 5:00 pm 7:00 - 9:30 pm

5:30 am - 5:00 pm 7:30 - 9:30 pm 5:30 am - 9:30 pm 5:30 am - 9:30 pm

WEDNESDAY 2:00 - 4:00 pm 8:00 - 9:30 pm 9:00 am - 2:00 pm 6:30 - 8:00 pm 5:30 am - 5:00 pm 7:30 - 9:30 pm 5:30 am - 9:30 pm 5:30 am - 9:30 pm

THURSDAY 2:00 - 5:00 pm 7:00 - 9:30 pm

5:30 am - 5:00 pm 7:30 - 9:30 pm 5:30 am - 9:30 pm 5:30 am - 9:30 pm

FRIDAY 2:00 - 9:30 pm

SATURDAY 3:00 - 8:30 pm

SUNDAY 3:00 - 8:30 pm

9:00 am - 2:00 pm

1:00 - 3:00 pm

12:00 - 3:00 pm

5:30 am - 5 pm 7:30 - 9:30 pm 5:30 am - 9:30 pm 5:30 am - 9:30 pm

7:00 am - 8:30 pm

7:00 am - 8:30 pm

7:00 am - 8:30 pm 7:00 am - 8:30 pm

7:00 am - 8:30 pm 7:00 am - 8:30 pm

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, steam room or before making use of the water slide.

Note: Schedules subject to change, please call 948-8804 for information

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www.airdrielife.com | OFFICIAL GUIDE TO BUSINESS & INDUSTRY IN THE CITY OF AIRDRIE

AirdrieWORKS Stay on top of business in Airdrie with the

Airdrie@work Newsletter

Register at www.airdrie.ca

Airdrie business is a glass act Airdrie discusses sustainability

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AIRDRIEWORKS

A WINNING PLAN Early last year, the Economic Development team developed a plan to guide the department through the next three years. The plan, called Economic Development Sustainable Prosperity Strategy 2007, was recently awarded with a 2007 Marketing Canada Award from The Economic Development Association of Canada (EDAC), in the Business Development/Research category.

“This award recognizes our commitment to forward-thinking, research and planning and our dedication to community engagement. It’s an honour to be recognized at the national level,” says Kent Rupert, Economic Development Team Leader.

Rupert explains over the past five years Airdrie has experienced unprecedented growth. To understand, manage, and sustain this prosperity, the Department recognized the need and the opportunity to develop a well-researched, focused and practical plan to guide economic development activities. In 2006, the Department committed the resources and staff to develop a three-year economic development strategy, which was completed in early 2007.

The strategy focused on identifying a vision for the Airdrie business community and was structured around setting four goals to move the City forward: business development, healthy communities, sustainable business and investment attraction. A draft of the strategy was made available to the public and business community for feedback.

The Economic Development team is now implementing the strategy, which includes tactics such as providing more local learning opportunities to the business community.

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Airdrie Economic Development Bringing Learning Opportunities Local

By Jennifer Bardell

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The City of Airdrie Economic Development Department works hard to meet the needs of local businesses. Last fall, they introduced a new initiative to bring more learning opportunities to the business community.

“Research we undertook identified a need from businesses for more local learning opportunities,” says Leona Esau, City of Airdrie Economic Development Officer. “Many business owners are too busy to attend day-long workshops and don’t have time to drive to Calgary for professional development,” she adds.

In response, the Department began offering a series of workshops. “We’re organizing short seminars on timely topics that allow businesses to gather practical tips and tools right here in Airdrie,” says Esau.

Based on the success of these workshops, more learning opportunities are being offered this year.

“The great response we’ve had proves the business community is eager to learn,” says Esau.“We have more exciting and timely business topics lined up for 2008 such as, jump-starting your home-based business and going green – incorporating sustainable practices into your business.” According to Esau, the goal is to offer a variety of workshops that appeal to the diverse sectors of the Airdrie business community.

_________ “The great response we’ve had proves the business community is eager to learn,” _________

The first workshop was organized with the Calgary Regional Partnership and Alberta Employment, Immigration and Industry surrounding the hot topic of employee retention.

The two-hour workshop attracted 24 individuals representing a wide spectrum of companies, from construction, landscaping and manufacturing to hospitality, healthcare and non-profit organizations.

Airdrie Economic Development offered a followup workshop on employee attraction. Nicole Tarkowski, Human Resources Contractor at Airdrie-based HR Extra Inc., who attended says, “In this highly competitive labour market, increases to salaries and benefits can only improve recruitment and retention efforts on an interim basis.”

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The workshop highlighted other important factors businesses need to consider when trying to appeal to future and existing staff, explains Tarkowski.

In March, the featured seminar will address the concept of LEAN Manufacturing. In conjunction with Alberta Employment, Immigration and Industry, the workshop will introduce businesses to “doing more with less.”

The “lean” concept comes out of the manufacturing industry, but can be applied to any number of businesses or organizations, Esau explains.

Essentially it’s about taking a critical look at how a business runs and then cutting the fat and fluff from operating processes.

Airdrie Economic Development invites businesses to attend any or all of the future workshops.

For more information, visit www.airdrie.ca and sign up for the Airdrie@Work electronic newsletter or phone 948-8844.

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Sustainability begins here

By Alex Frazer-Harrison

Lead by example.

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That’s how the City of Airdrie hopes to encourage its citizens and its businesses to embrace the philosophy of sustainable growth.

Sustainability is a buzzword that is often connected with environmental issues, but Tanis Houck, the City’s newly appointed sustainability co-ordinator, says it’s more complex than that.

“It’s all about wellness in the community,” she says.

“There are five pillars to sustainability: social, cultural, environment, economic and governance.”

To that end, the City is working on creating a long-term integrated community sustainability plan. As part of the process, City officials have joined forces with The Natural Step Canada to learn how to “walk the talk,” Houck says, by educating civic employees on best practices for sustainability.

“There are lots of success stories around sustainability in the City, so we want to build on those and have a more co-ordinated look at what we’re doing and how it all fits into the bigger picture of sustainability in our community.”

Tanis Houck is the City’s new sustainability co-ordinator.

Airdrie is one of two Alberta communities (the other being Olds) that received funding from the McConnell Family Foundation in 2007 to work with The Natural Step Canada on developing a plan that will engage citizens and be effective.

“The Natural Step is an international organization … that provides coaching and expertise in the area of organizational sustainability,” says Houck, adding many City staff have already v o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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taken part in workshops and e-learning courses on the subject.

So what does this mean for the City and its residents? Houck says the idea is to bring the way the City does business in line with those sustainability best practices.

For example, “the procurement department might look at what kind of paint we’re using, or what ink we’re using,” says Houck.“If we’re buying a new snowplow, are we buying one that is fuel efficient or can be run on biodiesel?

If we’re constructing a new building, are we making sure it’s energy efficient? If you’re creating a new neighbourhood, how does it reflect the social needs of the people who are going to be living there? It’s also about how we diversify the community, and create an environment where not everyone is necessarily commuting to work.”

One of The Natural Step Canada’s key approaches to sustainability planning is to turn traditional forecasting on its head, says Chad Park, senior sustainability advisor for the Ottawa-based organization.

“It starts with a planning approach we call ‘backcasting,’” he says. “That means beginning with the end in mind [as opposed to] ‘forecasting’ which is projecting trends into the future. Backcasting is about starting with a clear understanding of what the [successful outcome] is and working from today towards that definition.”

With Airdrie being one of the fastest-growing cities in Alberta, newcomers are arriving all the time, and Houck says it’s important to engage residents – new and old – in this process.

“They recognize that they like amenities like the recreation centre and the Bert Church Live Theatre and that they would like to see more availability of things like arts and culture locally,” she says. “One of the things that’s exciting about community visioning is to hopefully get to talk to newcomers and ask them what they’d like to see here.

“As you get bigger as a city, there is an expectation of availability of [services],” Houck adds.

“And there’s a need for education and dialogue around all the pillars [of sustainability].”

Some aspects of sustainability are already embraced by Airdrie residents, such as the city’s two-bag garbage limit and recycling programs.“These are a source of pride for community members, and it’s a foundation for us to build on,” says Houck.

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Park says Airdrie is a good candidate because its’ administration and staff have demonstrated an openness to learn new ways of doing things.

“A big reason why we’re pleased to work with Airdrie is the City itself seems to have a good organizational structure and a learning culture … that really makes a big difference in these initiatives,” he says.

Park adds his organization will be working closely with Houck and her office in the coming year on “a number of different opportunities for community engagement. Right now we’re focusing on getting City staff trained … we’ll be doing more training programs and presentations to different task forces and advisor groups to help Tanis develop the integrated community sustainability plan.”

Houck says the City of Airdrie has also turned to the experiences of places such as Whistler with its Whistler2020 plan and Calgary’s imagineCALGARY; initiatives with similar long-term sustainability goals.

“Whistler is a different community than ours … it’s a mountain community, but there are some great things to learn,” says Houck. “There’s also Canmore, Okotoks … we can all learn from each other.

“Locally, we want to be able to support the community in achieving sustainability, but we recognize and fully support the fact this needs to be a community-driven process.”

For information on upcoming public engagement opportunities relating to sustainability and the development of Airdrie’s integrated community sustainability plan, check with www.airdrie.ca.

For more information on The Natural Step Canada, visit www.naturalstep.ca.

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Wondering the best way to get your small business recognized?

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Two local businesses have mastered the winning formula for success. The Urban Treehouse Playcentres Inc., an innovative urban mommy café, and LOGical creations, an eco-friendly wooden creations company, both understand what it takes to run a successful, socially responsible business.

Both businesses were recognized for their success through Airdrie’s prestigious Winning Edge Awards Program.

For the past ten years, the Airdrie Business Resource Centre has recognized the small business community by awarding nominated businesses in three different award categories: Eco Edge Award, Family Friendly Business Award and Winning Edge Award.

Anyone can nominate a business they feel demonstrates outstanding business practices and makes valuable contributions to the community in the realm of these three awards.

On the edge of greatness ‘Thinking outside the box’ is the simple winning formula for running a successful small business, says the two winners of Airdrie’s most prestige business awards.

Lisa Sierra and Jennifer Jurkowski of Urban Treehouse

PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

By Jennifer Bardell

Every year in September, the partners of the Airdrie Business Resource Centre accept nominations from Airdrie residents and from those nominations, finalists are chosen. The finalists are celebrated and a winner in each category is announced at the Winning Edge Awards Banquet held during national Small Business Week each October. The awards are all a part of the same program, but the process and criteria for each award varies.

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The Eco Edge Award exists to honour the achievements of enterprises devoting themselves to being eco-friendly through innovation and commitment to sustainable environmental practices. The Eco Edge Award winner is chosen by the City of Airdrie’s Environmental Services Board which evaluates nominations against set criteria.

Becoming a sustainable business is a virtue more often on the radar for businesses nowadays, and builders of rustic log furnishings, LOGical Creations, met the criteria this year. They were chosen, the second year in a row, for their dedication to using only dead standing trees and trees that have died naturally in their products.

“The recognition of this award two years in a row is humbling," says Scott Pulvermacher who co-owns the company with Barry Chisholm.

"These awards are a tremendous promotional value to small companies.

This is a huge boost for us, it really motivates us to continue to speak out and encourage other entrepreneurs to follow suit in growing their businesses along the environmentally sensitive platform like we have."

Barry Chisholm and Scott Pulvermacher of LOGical Creations

The Winning Edge Awards are made possible by the Airdrie Business Resource Centre whose partners include: • Airdrie Chamber of Commerce • Airdrie Public Library • Alberta Agriculture and Food • Alberta Employment, Immigration and Industry • Bow Valley College • City of Airdrie • Community Futures Centre West

The latest award added to the Winning Edge Awards Program is the Family Friendly Business Award.The award, given out for the first time in 2005, recognizes commitment to promoting work/life balance for employees and/or providing family friendly services for customers. In 2007 the winning business was the Urban Treehouse Playcentres Inc., located at 102, 960 Yankee Valley Boulevard SE in Airdrie.

"The Urban Treehouse was selected for both their family-friendly attitude towards customers, as well as their staff," says Laurie Jacob-Toews, a member of the National Family Week Steering Committee who sponsors the Family Friendly Business Award. For example, employees can work “mommy shifts" allowing parents to work around taking their children to and from school.

But recognition of the Treehouse’s success didn’t stop there. They were also this year’s recipients of the third and longest-running award-the Winning Edge Award. This award recognizes a small business, of less than 50 employees, demonstrating exceptional customer service and community involvement.

Vivyan Oneil, a representative of the Airdrie Business Resource Centre responsible for awarding the Winning Edge, says,“The award winner will demonstrate service excellence, ongoing and active participation in community events and organizations, and significant business achievement.”

The Urban Treehouse’s winning formula is built around family principles, but owners Lisa Sierra and Jennifer Jurkowski have also incorporated excellent and innovative customer care concepts and have demonstrated examples of community involvement that goes above and

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beyond the realm of their business. Jacob-Toews cites the centre being breast-feeding friendly, offering a variety of children’s programs and free car seat clinics as examples of service to customers.

“It feels surreal to have won both these awards,” says Sierra. Business partner Jurkowski echoes that sentiment saying,“To be this young, have worked so hard – it’s awesome to know people value that.”

Their business sense is admirable, and so is their compassion and respect they have for their employees.“We like to include our employees in the decision-making process,” says Sierra.“If they have great ideas, we’ll let them spear-head the initiative.”This allows employees to foster a sense of ownership and pride in the Treehouse.

So if you own a small business in Airdrie, try ‘thinking outside the box’ this year. Keep a watch on the City of Airdrie’s website next fall for the 2008 nominations and your leading edge business could be recognized at the next awards.

Eco-LOGical Enterprise

Chic Parenting

Being eco-friendly has always been a business value at the forefront of their operations.

Since Urban Treehouse Playcentres Inc. first opened its doors in October 2006, they have won two Winning Edge awards at the Winning Edge Program last year, and they already have potential franchisees knocking at the door.

“We’ve received approximately one inquiry a day about franchisee requests over the last year,” says Lisa Sierra, who co-owns the business with Jennifer Jurkowski. “We hope to open five franchised stores the first year, once we get started.”

Their concept really resonates with people. The Treehouse provides a clean, safe, play room for your kids while you watch them and sit back with the gals or guys enjoying a latte and healthy inspired lunch items.

And if that hasn’t sold you, perhaps you’d be more interested in their level of community involvement, dedicating 15 per cent of their revenue to projects and charities “close to their heart,” as Sierra puts it.

More importantly The Urban Treehouse exists to provide children with an educational play-time. Say goodbye to television and video games, the Treehouse will take children back to the way kids used to play-inspiring kids with unique and educational toys that are designed to encourage child interaction. You won’t have to suffer through a headache of primary colour overload, “We painted the walls neutral, urban and chic colours to appeal to the parents, and the kids never even noticed!” says Sierra.“The Centre is for kids and adults, equally.”

In operation for the past five years, LOGical Creations owners, Scott Pulvermacher and Barry Chisholm, are the two-time winners of Airdrie’s Eco Edge Award. Pulvermacher and Chisholm craft quality rustic log furniture for your home, while keeping it affordable.

“Since day one, Barry and I said we wouldn’t open our business unless we were going to be fully eco-sensitive,” says Pulvermacher.“Even a small company can make a big difference.”

It’s not always easy to come up with economically viable and eco-logically friendly business solutions. However, according to Pulvermacher, “Becoming a ‘green’ company can shave costs off your bottom-line; you just have to think outside the box.” One of LOGical Creation’s simple but effective solutions is to use newspapers, which can be recycled, instead of drop-cloths underneath their wood working surfaces.

LOGical Creations have been recognized through numerous awards highlighting their eco-friendly habits. Their social responsibility extends further by taking a proactive approach, speaking at environmental functions and instituting green community programs such as Treecycle. This past January was the second annual Treecycle event in Airdrie, which aims to keep Christmas trees from landfills by chipping them and reusing them in local parks. The event is an initiative spearheaded by Pulvermacher and actively engages all aspects of the community with residents contributing their labour, local merchants donating prizes, and business providing their resources.

LOGical Creations: Innovative business ideals + Devotion to building a sustainable community = a winning formula for success

The Urban Treehouse Playcentres Inc.: Flexible employee relations + Family friendly business concepts = a winning formula for success v o l u m e 4 • s p r i n g 2 0 0 8 • A i rd r i e L I F E

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A man of“Action” Rob Ing, Rob Ing Video Productions

By Stacey Carefoot

Inside his 24’x24’ detached garage, Rob Ing brings his own version of masterpieces to life. Working full time at what was once a hobby, Ing produces video and music for a variety of clientele.

From large oil and gas companies to not for profit organizations he helps groups wanting to evolve an idea into a multi media message and he does it in an extremely high-tech fashion.

I

Using a high definition broadcast monitor and two split screen 19’ monitors he is able to splice, dice and dash his way through hours of footage that he has taken to create one complete project.

PHOTO BY KRISTY REIMER

Three layers of drywall, floors that sit on a foam foundation and dual layer glass are just a few of the components that allow Ing’s studio to rank high among other’s in its class. Sound absorption panels adorn many of the walls and oak finishes add a classy touch. A blue screen is hung for shooting footage for web and video. Ing also has an area for music mixing and recording.

Although Ing had years to dream about the creation of his own studio, he completed its construction in less than three months.

“I am fortunate to be able to network through groups like the Chamber,” says Ing, when discussing how he is able to get the word out about his business. A member of the Airdrie community for the past five years he caught the community spirit bug during his involvement with the Hockeyville campaign. He has also produced promotional and training videos for local businesses including The Ramada and Alan Tennant Real Estate.

Ing’s work has taken him to new heights, literally. A recent production job found Rob high above the oilsand fields of northern Alberta in a helicopter, five days of intense shooting netted his high profile client a first class, highly detailed video on their operation and provided Ing with additional material for his already impressive portfolio.

Whether it’s soaring across Canada or lending his skill and talent to non profit groups, Ing is making his mark in the production world and at the same time living Airdrie life to the fullest.

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AIRDRIEWORKS

Recycling old products into new profits

By Alex Frazer-Harrison

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Our culture produces a lot of waste – drinking bottles, obsolete computers, old TV sets, they all have to go somewhere when we’re done with them. Until fairly recently, they ended up in landfills.

Times have changed, and Albertans are embracing the idea of recycling.The east side of Airdrie has become a hotspot for recycling activity.

For example, if you take glass bottles for recycling to any of the 250 depots in Alberta, they’re destined for Airdrie-based Vitreous Glass Inc.

Darcy Forbes and Pat Cashion inside the Vitreous Glass facility.

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PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

“We receive all of the glass from the bottle depot system in Alberta, and a big chunk from Saskatchewan, B.C. and even Spokane,” says president Pat Cashion.“We crush the glass to a fine size and remove contaminants like paper, neck rings, foil, etc. through a variety of mechanical methods and handwork.”

Once processed, the crushed and cleaned glass is shipped to fibreglass-manufacturing plants in Innisfail and Edmonton. “These two plants make 95 per cent of the fibreglass building insulation made in Alberta, and Alberta is the only place in the northwest quarter of North America where it’s made,” says Cashion.

The Vitreous plant on East Lake Boulevard underwent upgrading in 2006, which Cashion says increased its efficiency. Now, some 90,000 tonnes of waste glass goes through the plant

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each year, which translates into a staggering amount of recycled bottles.

“If you think 1,000 tonnes of waste glass is probably 4,000 bottles – that’s 300-400 million bottles a year,” says Cashion. “This is industrial scale.”

Since opening in 1995, Vitreous has refined the process to a fine science, allowing its 13 staff to process this massive amount working a single shift. Cashion says his staff knows they’re making a difference to the environment.

“Fibreglass was historically made with raw material – sand, limestone, and other additives,” says Cashion.“We’ve replaced some 60 per cent of these materials, so what used to be 100-per cent raw materials is now 40, and that’s from waste glass.”

“It takes a lot of heat to make glass. The fibreglass [plants] are able to reheat the waste glass for a shorter time to get it back to liquid form to make fibreglass. So we’re not just selling them the minerals, we’re selling them the energy.”

Cashion says the bulk of waste glass comes from beverage containers, adding Albertans recycle some 80 per cent of their glass bottles.

Down the street, the eCycle Solutions plant is where old TVs and laptops go to “die”. “eCycle is Western Canada’s largest e-waste

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recycling company, a government-audited company,” says logistics/municipal co-ordinator Jarret Esslinger.

“We break down items such as TVs and computer monitors, and ship the pieces to other primary recyclers.” The parts are then used to make new computers and TVs, or the minerals are diverted into other products. eCycle has established a number of drop-off points in Calgary, including Staples stores, TopFlight Asset Services, and the Ecco Waste and BFI landfills. Other drop-off locations are in Edmonton and Leduc.

“We process about 500-600 tonnes per month from Alberta,” says Esslinger, adding there’s more to recycling an old TV or computer than just taking it apart. Electronics contain a mulligan stew of components, some hazardous like lead.

“We get audited by the government to make sure we adhere to safety standards,” he says.

“We have to make sure the stuff is processed correctly before it’s shipped to a [primary recycler] that knows what it’s doing.”

Esslinger says he expects business to pick up as more TVs become obsolete with the move towards high-definition, and as more home computers and other electronics are replaced by newer models.

Esslinger says with municipalities such as Calgary outlawing people throwing their

electronics in the trash, and the City of Airdrie encouraging its citizens to recycle, the “message is getting out there that you can’t just throw [electronics] out; you have to make sure they’re recycled and put back into industry.”

Esslinger says the recycling fee included in the cost of many electronics in Alberta such as monitors and computers help cover the costs of e-waste recycling. Some products such as VCRs and DVD players aren’t yet covered, but the cost to the consumer to recycle such devices is nominal, he says.

Cashion and Esslinger say the east side of Airdrie has become a true hub for recycling and that’s something for Airdrie residents to be proud of.

For more information on eCycle Solutions, visit ecyclesolutions.com or call 945-2611.

For information on Vitreous Glass, call 948-7811.

The City of Airdrie’s Recycle Depot at 15 East Lake Hill accepts plastic, cardboard, newspaper, phone books, as well as glass and household e-waste destined for eCycle and Vitreous.

For a list of what is and is not accepted at the Recycle Depot check page 84 of this issue of AirdrieLIFE, visit www.airdrie.ca/recycling_waste/recycling_depot.cfm or pick up a copy of Airdrie’s Recycling & Waste Guide.

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AIRDRIEWORKS

Airdronians At Work One of AirdrieWORK’s goals is to showcase the variety of dedicated people who keep Airdrie humming by doing their jobs and doing them well. We are pleased to introduce Matt Couchman – East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre “employee extraordinaire.”

By Ellen Kelly

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“I don’t know how we’d get along without him.”

That’s the consensus of staff members at the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre when asked about fellow employee, Matt Couchman, who is half of the two-man maintenance team that keeps the facility in top shape. He works full-time with Brian Welch, the Facility Operations team leader, who considers their working arrangement a partnership. They were both hired in February 2004 and have been together ever since.

When asked about his job, Couchman’s enthusiasm shines through. He takes great pride in doing his job well and enjoys keeping the lobby, change rooms, boot racks, and general area in perfect order and, outside, making sure the grounds are neat and litter-free.

“Sometimes it gets hard, he says, “when it’s busy in the change rooms. When schools come in, I have to wait till they’re gone.” But he’s not complaining – he likes everything about his job.

For example, he cleans the windows looking into the pool area daily, making sure that they’re spotless. Welch comments that it’s a tedious task, but his colleague does an excellent job every time: “He’s super-dependable and a great worker.”

Couchman has also been asked to help out at the arenas on occasion and he is always willing to lend a hand. Facility manager Greg Lockert adds,“You give him a task and he completes it.

Explain it to him and you don’t have to check,

because you know he’s done it right every time.

No task is too small. If it needs to be done, he does it and does a good job at it.”

Couchman, who grew up in Airdrie, graduated from George McDougall High School and spent a year at Olds College. His workexperience placements sometimes involved working in fitness facilities, so when the ELRWC hired him, they knew they were getting an experienced employee. What they didn’t realize was they had also gained an ambassador extraordinaire!

Everyone, from other staff members to facility visitors, appreciates Couchman’s good humour and friendly nature. “I write jokes everyday and put them on the bulletin board” he says with a smile. Staff members look forward to a new joke posted daily. He really cares about his co-workers and expresses his interest often. Couchman has a remarkable memory for people. If he’s working in the lobby area, he makes everyone, from children to seniors, feel welcome – and if he isn’t around, they seek him out. “He’s amazing,” says Welch. “The tough kids come in and won’t talk to anyone, but they all say ‘Hi’ to Matt and he knows them by name.”

When asked what Couchman brings to ELWRC, Lockert says,“It’s tough to put into words what he brings to this building. He’s a very sociable, personable guy. He’s a good friend. He comes in every morning and asks how we’re doing. He stops and chats [with the patrons] which is great. It’s a friendly place to be. He’s a great ambassador for the facility.”

PHOTO BY KRISTY REIMER

His skills are appreciated by the other employees, including Trudy Pratt, who works at the ELRWC’s reception desk. She says Couchman is willing to help whenever he can. He’s very conscious of his job and one of the most responsible employees here. “He brings a lot of joy,” Pratt says.

As if Matt Couchman wasn’t already a busy guy at the ELRWC, he swims on the weekends and works out in the weight room a couple of times a week. He enjoys playing the drums, drawing in his sketch book, and building with his large collection of tools. His open honesty and friendly personality touch everyone who meets him.

“We’re just really lucky to have Matt,” says Welch.

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AIRDRIEWORKS

Hospital clerks create new future

By Angela MacIsaac

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The call of the medical field was too strong for two Airdrie women.

Both Rhonda Schmidt and Marcie Sera had been interested in medical careers when they were younger, but their lives took different paths.

They got married and started raising their families.

The Hospital Unit Clerk (HUC) Certificate is a 24-week accelerated program that prepares individuals to manage information in a hospital nursing unit. They learn about basic human needs, hospital organization, medical terminology, processing medical orders, communication skills, reception skills, and basic computer skills.

The new Hospital Unit Clerk Certificate at Bow Valley College’s Airdrie Campus caught their attention and they couldn’t look away.

Going back to school can be intimidating but both Schmidt and Sera have found their calling in the health-care field.

“I always wanted to go into nursing or teaching,” says Schmidt.“My son was diagnosed with cancer when he was two-and-a-half. It was devastating but I read lots and asked lots of questions.

“I had to learn to take blood pressure. I also took care of his catheter, which is where his chemo was administered. I also had to give him a heplock and needles at home.”

Her son is now 18 and his cancer is in remission, following a stem cell transplant.

“For me, going into this field is almost like payback for the care he received,” Schmidt says.

Marcie Sera (left) and Rhonda Schmidt have new careers thanks to Bow Valley College in Airdrie.

Sera grew up with dreams of becoming a nurse.

“I haven’t ruled that out,” she says.“But I want to work as a hospital unit clerk and see if I like it.”

Schmidt, a 47-year-old mother of three, was working in the oil-and-gas industry and wanted a change of pace. She met Roxanne Beauchle, Community Liaison Officer for Bow Valley College (BVC) in Airdrie, at the Crossfield farmer’s market and quit her job that Monday.

“I had such a good feeling about the BVC program,” Schmidt says.

Finding employment upon graduation should be relatively easy. More than 97 per cent of BVC’s HUC graduates find employment in the field.

“There are tons of jobs you can find as an HUC,” says Schmidt.“You can go anywhere, to any medical office, not just a hospital.”

Sera, a 35-year-old mother of two, was a stay-at-home mom. She was working part-time and wanted to contribute more to her family’s finances. Her husband brought home BVC information about the Hospital Unit Clerk Certificate.

The program is expected to have a high rate of employment success, says Holly Albersworth, the Accounting and Computer Applications Instructor at BVC’s Airdrie campus.

“He said,‘look, that course is offered right here in Airdrie,’ and it was like a light bulb went off in my head,” Sera says.

“Medical offices were calling before the program even started,” she says.

“So, we know the jobs are out there.”

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AIRDRIEWORKS

The Airdrie Home & Garden Fair: Growing More than Just Flowers

By Bob Abbott

For many, the Airdrie Home & Garden Fair offers the experience of a casual stroll through a mini-carnival, some laid-back browsing, and a chance to say hello to friends.

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With live and recorded music, the buzz of the crowd, and delicious odours from food booths, you'll begin to understand why as many as 10,000 people visit the Fair every spring.

At its current venue, the Airdrie & District Recreation Complex (better known as the Twin Arenas), the Fair has grown to include two stages, where fairgoers are entertained by everything from singers to dog obedience displays.

Over the past 31 years, the Fair has also expanded from an agricultural focus to now encompassing all types of local enterprises.

The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, which organizes it, considers the Fair a major fund raiser, and more importantly, a key venue for promoting Airdrie businesses by connecting them with local residents.

"You have to show you're serious about your business; you have to put time and energy into your booth."

For Susan Laing of the Airdrie Dance Academy, time and energy goes into more than just a booth; her students dance onstage up to six times over the weekend. At the Academy's booth, they handle new registrations and answer questions from parents and prospective dancers.

Tracy Hauck of The Butcher Shoppe generates new business by selling samples of beef jerky and pepperoni. "A lot of people come into the store afterward, saying they tried it at the show, and they liked it or their kids really liked it," Hauck says.

These three businesspeople take different approaches when it comes to promoting at the Airdrie Home & Garden Fair, but they share one critically important idea: a people-focused strategy.

tact the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce 948-4412).

That popularity appeals to LePoudre. "I go to the Fair with the idea of seeing existing clients, some of whom I may not have seen lately, so it's a good place to keep in touch," he says. "I'm interested in finding new clients too, but that's a secondary objective."

LePoudre, Hauck and Laing also note the importance of a good booth in a good location.

Hauck and Laing prefer corner booths giving them more room for their displays.

"We like to have the first booth visitors hit, so they walk around with a taste of our products; for us, a taste is much better than something to read," says Hauck.

"Each year we award prizes for the best booths; in judging them, we look at several factors, including signs, originality and interactive features like prize draws," says Jones.

Follow-ups after the show also get attention from some exhibitors. "We contact everyone who registers for the next season; this is one of our biggest marketing and promotion efforts," says Laing.

For these exhibitors, the people on the other side of the tables, the Fair is not a place to relax.

This event can make the difference between growing and not growing their businesses.

"Successful exhibitors are out talking to people; they don't sit back, they interact," says Pat Jones, Show Manager for the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, "even the night before the fair opens, we have an evening get-together for all the vendors, and they can market their businesses to each other, as well as network. A lot of friendships and partnerships come out of these evenings."

"The Airdrie show is now very professional and you have to have a good booth, and be professional yourself," says Allan LePoudre of LePoudre Financial Services, who has greeted fairgoers since the mid-1980s.

Under the Chamber's management, all 170 booths sell out each year and other businesses go on a waiting list, exhibitors obviously find the fair an excellent venue (businesses and organizations that want to exhibit should con-

The 2008 Airdrie Home & Garden Fair runs April 26 (9:00 am to 5:00 pm) and 27 (9:00 am to 4:00 pm), at the Airdrie & District Recreation Complex.Admission is only $3.00.

So, as visitors wander through, they see a crosssection of retailers, manufacturers, service businesses, and even not-for-profit groups.

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"The Fair is a real success story," says Jones. "It has grown and grown." For savvy exhibitors, it's helped them grow their businesses, too.

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VISIT US ONLINE

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AIRDRIE COMMUNITY

AirdrieLIFE is mine Welcome to Active, Alberta… I mean Airdrie, Alberta. It’s easy to make that mistake when you look through the pages of this issue of AirdrieLIFE magazine.

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No couches potatoes here - we are an active city. Putting together our biggest issue ever required a tremendous amount of activity too. It was fun to meet such enthusiastic people of all ages who make their health and well being a priority in their life. It kind of inspires oneself to get moving.

We are fortunate in Airdrie to not only have the facilities to accommodate our wide range of interests but the leaders and role models, both former and future Olympic athletes, to keep us motivated.

It’s hard to say what inspired me more in this issue – Jordan Seegmiller’s mature attitude about hard work or Janet Sima’s youthful energy. I’m not much of a star on ice and I honestly hate running (bad knees – poor excuse I know) but I make an effort to keep active as studies show that physical activity is good for your body, and mental and emotional well being.

About the covers: LIFE Swimmers from the Nose Creek Swim Association are all smiles during practice at the East Lake Recreation and Wellness Centre. See full story page 16.

WORKS Darcy Forbes and Pat Cashion of Vitreous recycle broken glass into profits. See page 108 for details.

So I step away from my computer more often as the weather warms up and when I stretch my body I stretch my mind. I start to think of more creative ways to tackle a project when I’m walking at a brisk pace around my neighbourhood.

A few rounds of hoops have me exhilarated and open to new ideas.

Vigorously pulling weeds for an hour in the garden finds me weeding out a solution to something that has been puzzling me. Hmm… imagine if I trained for a triathlon – could I then publish a Pulitzer prizewinning novel?

Well not likely, but I will work at staying in shape so I can continue to work with so many talented people who bring this magazine to life. In fact, we had so much life this time, we decided to post the extra images from the stories online for you to enjoy. Please visit our website www.airdrielife.com Watch for our next issue in June – this marks our first summer issue and it promises to be full of the people, places and events that give Airdrie its joie de vive.

Sherry Shaw-Froggatt

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