05,13

SPOT

LIGHT MAGAZINE VOLUME 3.13

Cover photo compliments Gainsboro Studio

spotlightcopyworks@gmail.com

SPOTLIGHT MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER DONNA BENGERT EDITOR SCOTT COWAN DESIGNERS MATT POWER, AMANDA BATTEN & JUSTINE BICE SALES OREST TKACHYK, PAT FLINN PHONE (403) 504-0011 FAX (403) 504-0041 EMAIL spotlightcopyworks@gmail.com For a free subscription to Spotlight, forward your email to donna@copynet.ca CO-OP MALL, #116, 3030 - 13TH AVENUE S.E. MEDICINE HAT, AB T1B 1E3 Disclaimer: No responsibility can be taken by Spotlight Magazine for any errors or omissions contained herein. Furthermore, responsibility for any losses, damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through this magazine is not the responsibility of Spotlight Magazine. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Spotlight Magazine. Comments are welcome.

Pg. 2

PRACTICE Makes Permanent

A

n interesting point was brought to my attention at a time in my fitness training career when I’d been away from over 6 weeks.

It was regarding my return to resistance training and muscle conditioning and a thing called muscle memory.

Not only did this sound familiar to my ears but it sounded wonderful to my ego. ‘’That’s so cool’’, thought I! The concept of my muscles having little brains or wonderfully fond memories of lifting and pushing plates and weights way beyond anything I was able to do at the time. (I was still in recovery mode after having survived an historic and acute case of Rhabdomyolosis.)

Wait a minute. Memories in my muscles? From everything I’ve been reading, studying and have been taught, this just didn’t jive. As awesome as is it sounds and as kind as it was to hear from so many of my wonderful brothers and sisters in iron. I had to do some more research and of course, write about and share what I’ve found.

Some of this you may or may not already known.

I invite you to read on anyways. I promise you’ll be entertained.

Our skeletal muscles (those are all the muscles related to movement, attached to your bones) are most definitely connected to a form of memory but not the way we think. Our brain controls all our skeletal muscles for every movement, through nerve impulses. You think of picking up a dumbbell or glass of water, your brain sends the required signals to those muscles in your hands, arm, shoulder etc. Said weight or beverage is picked up. You get the idea.

Muscle memory is actually neuro muscular facilitation or procedural memory. (There’s many ways of naming it.) Sounds fancy eh? It’s very straightforward. Skeletal muscle activity that is learned, can become automatic with practice. It is kept in your grey matter forever. That’s why if you’ve learned how to perform a particular

By Nathalie J. Pépin movement or exercise the wrong way, it takes that much more effort, concentration and making of odd facial expressions during said exercise, to get it right. I’ll never forget learning how NOT to perform squats and practicing until my quads decided to take an extended leave of absence the following days.

Information that is previously learned can be applied with greater efficiency. The first time you walked on that treadmill, lifted a weight, walked, signed your own name, changed your child’s diaper was a new learning experience and involved new motor skills for your muscles. As time went on, you repeat the actions, you get to be a pro at it. If you haven’t changed any diapers in 10 years, you might gag and fumble at it at first, but your brain would kick in and the task would be remembered. Or you’ll bow out and deem it your spouse’s job because no amount of tiger balm or minty rub up your nostrils will tame the aroma of said diaper.

Muscle fibres do not remember anything, nor do they have scrap books or mementos of the past.

They do not have individual brains or memories of their own. They are controlled by THE BRAIN. The central command centre in your skull.

If you force muscles to contract with some kind of load, they will adapt, repair and remodel (microfilament damage occurs... another fancy term... I feel so cool), if certain conditions are met. If muscles are not forced or not stressed with load, they’ll go back to their former state and/or will continue to waste. This is commonly called disuse atrophy. It can be a very serious condition to those who have experienced injury preventing movement/use (broken limbs) over a long period of time or those who are bed-ridden.

Then I began reading about a very cool theory that might be related to/confused with this muscle memory phrase. The theory is called Multi-

nucleation theory. Nothing to do with multi-grain cereal or bars.

Multi-nucleation theory says that resistance training creates increased number of muscle fibre nuclei. Since skeletal muscles are the HeMen and She-Ra of the body’s cells, that is they are the largest of all the cells in our body, having extra nuclei makes them just that much sturdier and intense. Once resistance training resumes, whether that means a person recovers from illness and resumes daily tasks or work activities or when an athlete returns from ‘off season’, if conditions are ideal, the muscle cells are ready to synthesize protein. This increases overall mass and strength.

What’s interesting to note is that during atrophy, these nuclei do not die off or self-destruct (apoptosis). Sounds a bit like A-PopTart-ToastThis...lol. Once you create these bad-boy nuclei, they’ve got your back. The theory says they’ll be with you always. Kind of like the forever urge I get to roll around and perform cartwheels on David Coverdale’s Jaguar XJ upon hearing that 1982 hit Here I Go Again.

I wonder if Tawny Kitaen could use her muscle memory to flip around like a spry leprechaun these days.

Nathalie J. Pépin

Certified CanFitPro Trainer FLCN - Fitness and Lifestyle Coaching with Nat Inc. www.flcnat.com Email: fitlifestylewithnat@gmail.com Skype: flcnat iPhone: (403) 866-3874 Pg. 3

Paint W

By Leslie Cochrane, Loft 3 Design Company

ant to make a change to your home but aren’t sure where to start? Sometimes a new colour scheme is all you need to transform your home from blah to beautiful! Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to dramatically alter the look and mood of your home. Whether it’s one room or the entire house all you need is a few tips to get started.

Think about the mood you want to convey when selecting a colour. In a bedroom do you want the feeling to be restful and soothing or dramatic and intimate? Soft, cool colors and neutrals usually create a quieter feeling while stronger colours are for drama. Do you want your dining area to feel sociable and stimulating or appear formal and quiet? Warmer, contrasting and somewhat brighter colors add to a social atmosphere; deeper blue-greens and neutrals will give a more formal ambiance. Do you want kid’s rooms to create an active and exciting energy or an orderly and restful feeling?

Be careful not to overstimulate your children with intensely bright hues.

You may not know it, but some brighter colours can lead to unrest and irritability.

Colour schemes fall into three categories: complementary, analogous, and neutral. Complementary schemes combine a primary and secondary color from opposite sides of the colour wheel (red and green).

Analogous colours are either warm (reds, oranges, and yellows) and cool (greens, blues, and violets). Neutrals are colours not included in a colour wheel, such as browns, whites, and blacks.

The look of a paint colour can change dramatically, depending on what’s next to it. Except for red, blue, and yellow, all colours are mixed.

That white wall might take on pink undertones next to a red Oriental rug. Sometimes undertones are hard to spot until it’s too late. If you take a focal piece, such as a pillow or photo, to a paint store, that will help you avoid these problems.

Look at your paint chips under the kind of light in the room: direct, indirect, or artificial light. Look at the paint chips against furniture and rugs and art that will be in the room. Some paint companies provide sample jars and large paint chips so that you can easily assess them in different areas and times of day.

Once you have your palette figured out it’s a matter of getting out your painting clothes, brushes and rollers. You can have an entirely transformed house within a weekend!

If you require a professional colour consultation please call Loft 3 Design Company at (403)487-5636 and our professional Interior Designer would be happy to assist you.

Pg. 4

Loft 3 Design Company

COMMUNITY

March 2013

April 4 - 6, 12 & 13

Events

CONGRATULATIONS to Tom Booth on winning the Find Cupid Contest for a $25.00 Gift Certificate from Copy Works Design & Gifts.

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APRIL

WEDDING EXPO The sponsors of the 2013 Bridal Directory would like you to come and enjoy a fashion show, tour beautifully decorated venues, & visit with local wedding industry professionals. You will receive the 2013 Bridal Directory & opportunity to win valuable prizes.

Event takes place on April 7, 2013 at 1:00pm at the Cypress Centre, Stampede Grounds.

Admission: $10.00 for the bride, groom and party Register: Online at www.reflectionsconsulting.net OR call Pat at 403.458.2788

Enerflex MS Walk On Sunday, June 23. Lace up for someone you love. All across Canada communities join a common cause each spring as families, friends, and colleagues support people living with multiple sclerosis. The steps you take and the dollars you raise make an impact in the lives of Albertans living with MS. Register today and begin your fundraising.

With your help we can end MS! For more information: 403-5296797 or mswalks.ca

23

4.19

JUNE

Come celebrate Juno week in Maple Creek on Fri April 19 - Live in concert are the rising stars of the Saskatchewan blues rock scene - more info 1-306-662-2212

Join the Parkinson Alberta Society for a day filled with learning about life as a wonderful journey no matter the diagnosis – day of learning @ the MH Legion Ortona Room from 10am – 2:30pm Must pre-register with Beth @ 403-5265521 or bmetcalf@ parkinsonalberta.ca

MARCH 15

The Medicine Hat College Conservatory of Music and Dance is pleased to offer the Jazz and Pop Choir. Under the direction of newly appointed Voice Instructor Adele M. Wilding, this ensemble explores wellknown jazz standards from the American Songbook and arrangements of classic pop from the 1960s to 1990s. Participation is open to both teenagers and adults. No previous choral experience is necessary.

Weekly on Thursdays, 7:30-9:00 p.m. at the Medicine Hat College Conservatory of Music and Dance, Recital Room. If you are interested in joining the Jazz and Pop Choir, please contact Adele at the MHC Conservatory of Music and Dance: 403-529-4811 or email AWilding@ mhc.ab.ca

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w w w . m e d i c i n e h a t d i r e c t o r y. c o m T he I nformational I nternet S ite

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Pg. 5

A Study of Trusts for a Disabled Child How can you maximize the value of your estate to your spouse, children & causes you care about?

Being widowed some years earlier, Robert passed away last year. His estate incurred significant income tax on over $500,000 in RRIFs, as well as investments with $140,000 of unrealized Capital Gains. The Estate settles out with nearly $2,000,000 and transitions to an active Trust.

His only child, Ruth, lives independently and receives provincial disability benefits. Robert and his wife Linda committed to assist Ruth throughout their life, but were careful not to disturb her provincial benefits. Robert’s Will specified a discretionary trust (informally called a “Henson Trust”) to provide for Ruth after the passing of her parents.

This Trust will supplement Ruth’s income and provide a “back-up” source of funds in case additional support is required, but the value of the Trust won’t be included in Ruth’s assets in determining her eligibility for provincial benefits. (This strategy may not work to preserve the right to provincial benefits in all provinces.)

A “Henson Trust” requires beneficiaries in addition to the disabled person. Robert and Linda named a trusted Canadian Charity as the eventual beneficiary (known as a “Charitable Remainder Trust”). When Ruth passes away all remaining money will transfer to the Charity. Robert’s Will did not define a specific amount of capital to the benefit of the Charity.

Any specific amount would have triggered a significant donation tax credit, and enlarged the remaining Estate.

This missed opportunity could have retained over $300,000 for the settled Estate.

In summary, this Trust will provide reliable support for Ruth. However, Roberts’ final tax bill could have been greatly reduced, resulting in greater support for Ruth and the intended Charity.

Canadians can designate a charity as the ultimate beneficiary in their Will, yet provide benefits to sustain family and friends for their lifetimes using a Charitable Remainder Trust. This provides immediate charitable tax credit even though the funds are not transferred to the charity until the life interests expire.

Any estate of size ought to explore scenarios for increasing their bequests to Charities and other heirs.

For more information, visit: www.bmo.com/nesbittburns

Dan Hein, BRE

Associate Investment Advisor BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. Medicine Hat, AB Phone: 403-528-6771 Email: Dan.Hein@nbpcd.com

The comments included in this article are not intended to be a definitive analysis of tax applicability or trust and estate law. The comments contained herein are general in nature and professional advice regarding an individual’s particular tax position should be obtained in respect of any person’s specific circumstances. ® “BMO (M-bar roundel symbol)” is a registered trade-mark of Bank of Montreal, used under licence. ® “Nesbitt Burns” is a registered trade-mark of BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank of Montreal.

Opinions are those of the author and may not reflect those of BMO Nesbitt Burns. The information and opinions contained herein have been compiled from sources believed reliable but no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to their accuracy or completeness.

Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund Pg. 6

WIN

!

Community Realty

Time to Retire?

The amount you need!

$$$$$$$

FARMS NEEDED!

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by Wendy Struck

Pg. 8

rtists draw upon many sources using varying subject matter.

Some work outside in the “plein air” tradition. This is akin to still life; three dimensional objects and spaces provide the best sources for realism, practising a new medium, or as a starting point for other styles. Working from photographs is popular but I urge my students to eventually put down the photo and use memory and skills. Working from memory and imagination can be challenging but often provides the greatest outcome. A combination of all sources can be a great option too.

In terms of subject matter, (differs from content but that’s another article!) people and places are on the top of my list. Travelling provides sources for both.

Cities present unusual architecture, islands give us ocean views, while small towns and countryside are filled with people and wildlife. Local people can be the most intriguing of subjects, as they live and work while we spend leisure time in their neighborhoods.

When we travel, we are out of our element, and that can make our senses sharper so that our observational skills are heightened and improved. Cultural differences are arresting at times and for me it brings out childlike curiosity. Many of us are happiest with simple things; music, sunshine, friendship, good food, a great view. In my experience, many cultures are steeped in the simple things. These are lives that feel rich and unencumbered by the idea that to be “busy” means we are important. Authentic life barges through our senses and is

impossible to ignore. New experiences inspire us and motivate our creativity.

I am inspired by the open, kind face of the woman who fills her truck with personally baked goods to sell in the small Mexican pueblo plaza. And to try baking those perfect coils of cinnamon buns! I want to capture the energy of a surfer’s delight as he rides the best wave of the day. I want to document the dazzling light of an emerald ocean that seems to literally breathe with life. I am drawn to the aged and sundrenched colours of the architecture in an historic Cuban city. There is inspiration wherever I look; youthful long-limbed dancers, colourful costumes, a pelican flight, a map made from rocks in the sidewalk, and the enduring smile of the girl who cooks omelettes over a burning stove without a fan in 30 degree weather.

All creative people can enjoy the inspiration that newness can give. Whether you’re interested in interior décor, cooking, or gardening… If you’re in need of inspiration but without a budget for major travel, consider some alternatives.

Coffee table tripping is one my favourite past times; visit your local library and check out travel books filled with vivid photography and adventure-filled detail. Or, go to a neighbouring town to see unfamiliar buildings, back alleys and people. Take a sketchbook to the mall where crowds vary from toddlers to seniors. Take a drive on the dirt road you’ve never been down. Visit the greenhouse where tropical plants are thriving in the winter. Inspiration is everywhere. I challenge you to find some!

Spring is Around The Corner, it’s

Time to Get Your Home Ready to Sell!

Preparing your house for selling can be a daunting and overwhelming task whether you have lived in your home a few years or many. The longer you have lived in your home the more things you will have acquired. The intent of this Top 10 Tips for Successful Home Staging is to help you save TIME, MONEY and ENERGY. 1. Curb Appeal Stand back and view your home as if you were seeing it for the first time. This is the ‘first impression’ stage. Depending on the season you may want to have pots of colourful and attractive flowers to greet buyers; a clean and inviting door mat; new and shiny door handles and/or knockers; a freshly painted door.

2. Declutter Start your pre-pack as soon as possible. You need to decide what you are going to keep, give away, sell or throw away/recycle. Many clients will rent storage lockers or have pods delivered so they can start to clear out what is not going to make the house look good.

3. Clean You would think this one is common sense but let me assure you, I wish it was so! A clean home translates into ‘They must have really cared for their home.” Use environmentally friendly cleaners where you can. Bathrooms and kitchens must be sparkling clean at the very least.

4. Depersonalize We know you love your family photos and your personal treasures and for living they are perfect. For selling pack them up carefully so you can showcase them in your new home. For selling you want buyers to focus on the best features of your home and not your personal things or collections.

5. A neutral colour scheme is the way to go for selling.

Choose only 3 colours or less to paint your house for selling. If you have an open floor plan then paint the main floor all the same colour. Bedrooms look good in light sage greens or warm blues like the new aqua.

6. Highlight your home’s best architectural features Place your furniture in each room so that you have very obvious focal points that show off the home’s best selling features. For example, if you have a beautiful fireplace then place the furniture in a parallel grouping so that the eye is drawn to the fireplace.

7. Decide on the function in each room If you were using your guest bedroom as your den for living, for selling turn it back into a bedroom with bedroom furniture in it. If you do not have the right furniture for each room consider renting it. There are more and more rental furnishing companies opening up every day. If you don’t want to rent then borrow.

8. Lighting your home to its best advantage Spend money on new light fixtures in brushed nickel or stainless steel. Brass is out so don’t fight it. There are many low-cost lighting stores to select from so no excuses for having dated light fixtures.

9. Window treatments that sell your home The most popular on the market are the 2” faux woods in a white tone to go with your trim. Decorative side panels will do the trick if you need to add warmth and colour.

10. Flooring needs special attention and is a good investment for updating the look of your home Tile or linoleum is great for entranceways, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms; a good quality laminate or hardwood is perfect for living rooms and family rooms; bedrooms are attractive in a neutral carpet.

By planning and budgeting you can get yourself to the “OPEN HOUSE READY” stage.

Remember that over 79% of prospective buyers have already checked you out through the MLS listings. Will they like what they see?

Happy Selling!

Dalyce Spencer 1(403)866-9085 RE/MAX Medalta Real Estate Pg. 9

Author

SUCCESS STORIES

Kathleen D. Mailer

is the CEO of Aurora Publishing, the Founder/Editor-in-Chief of Today’s Businesswoman magazine, Canada’s leading authority on self-publishing, an author, philanthropist, and business coach. Visit her websites at www.KathleenMailer.com and www.writepublishmarketitnow.com and www.TodaysBusinesswomanMagazine.com

Today I’m interviewing author, Lisa St. Julien-Kroeger.

leaving behind her 7-yearold daughter.

At that time, I remember feeling grateful that I did not end up that way myself.

Lisa, when did you start writing?

I started writing 8 months ago.

What is the title of your book and what’s it about?

The title is Unmask the Liar: A Journey Through a Decade of Domestic Violence and Beyond.

In my book, I recount my personal journey of secretly living through a decade of domestic violence and abuse, to help illustrate a pragmatic and straightforward tutorial on how to successfully leave your abuser with confidence and peace of mind.

I offer readers a clear understanding of the true reality of their own situation and how to recognize the contributions they make to the cycle of abuse.

I believe that this book will help guide and empower those engaged in an abusive domestic relationship to change the direction of their lives and take control of their own futures!

What made you write this book?

I decided to share my story/secret because of tragedies which struck Airdrie, a small city where I live, just north of Calgary. In February 2012, a 33-year-old woman was a victim of a murder-suicide by her boyfriend, Pg. 10

Soon after, a second tragedy hit Airdrie. A young man murdered his wife, 23, their infant son, and then killed himself.

I could only imagine the magnitude of this arising in such a small population, not once but twice, within months. As I listened to the radio in my van on my way to work, I decided that I could and would make a difference using my story. I felt I couldn’t be quiet any longer when I knew a book could make a difference in so many lives.

Author Lisa St. Julien-Kroeger

Because of these events, my book is dedicated to Andrea Conroy and Haley Wourms of Airdrie and all the women who have lost their lives at the hands of their spouses.

Who is the typical reader?

Women who feel trapped in an abusive or violent relationship.

However, the contents of the book can help ANYONE engaged in an abusive relationship of any kind.

How are you marketing your book?

Speaking, networking, personal

contacts and social media.

How can we get a copy?

You can order a printed copy or eBook on www.Amazon.ca or at www.wittfoundation. org 20% of the price of all books sold will go directly into domestic violence prevention.

What’s next for you?

I have now dedicated myself to being a Champion of Hope by creating international awareness and attention to this subject through my book, speaking, giving workshops, and heading up the WITT (Women In True Transition) Foundation.

I am also working on my follow-up book, which focuses on how to successfully support a person in an abusive relationship, called Support for the Supporters.

Thanks, Lisa, for taking the time today to be interviewed.

MEDICINE HAT INTERPRETIVE PROGRAM

Police Point Park Nature Centre

EASTER CELEBRATIONS AND ACTIVITIES It’s hard to believe that it is almost Easter....

This year Easter will be at the end of March.

It will be the 28th year of Easter Bunnies, Chicks, and Eggs at the Police Point Park Nature Centre. For the last 14 years the Easter Program as been sponsored by a local service group. The Medicine Hat Kinsmen Club, has been serving our communities greatest needs for over 70 years. With the funding they have provided to the Interpretive Program, the Easter Program has continued to grow and it gets “better every year.” What originally started as a 2 hour program for 2 days has grown to a 4 day program for almost 6 hours every day. Actual hours are: 6 hours on Friday, Saturday & Sunday and 4 hours on Monday during the Easter Weekend.

Everyone is Invited to the Nature Centre During the Easter Weekend. BUNNIES, CHICKS, AND EGGS – Good Friday to Easter Monday: March 29 to April 1, 2013.

10am to 4pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday; and 10AM to 2PM Monday.

Welcome Spring with a walk down the Bunny Trail, decorate festive eggs - Ukrainian Style, touch live bunnies and chicken chicks and see the wild pheasant chicks at the Nature Centre in Police Point Park.

Many of our Public Programs are sponsored by local Service Clubs: Family Day by the Kiwanis Club of Medicine Hat, Christmas Hayrides by the Lions Club of Medicine Hat and the Medicine Hat Interpretive Program is supported and managed by the Local Naturalist Club – the Grassland Naturalists.

It is Our Volunteers That Make the Difference – they are our most important resource and without them we could not offer many of our free public programs. Would you like to be part of our Community of Volunteers? Or become a Sponsor for one of our Public Programs call the Nature Line for information: 403-529-6225 or email: natureline.info - Valerie Martins, Nature Interpreter

Drew Barnes

Alberta MLA Cypress-Medicine Hat

D

ebate in the Legislature this spring is sure to be lively when the government introduces its budget for the coming year. It is anticipated that this budget will be marked by more debt, and an even bigger than anticipated deficit.

Why is Alberta in such a financial pickle?

Alberta collects more income tax revenue per capita than any other province in Canada because our low tax regime drives economic growth and job creation, resulting in more people paying taxes. Resource revenues also remain strong and are at near record levels. Despite the Premier’s attempt to convince Albertans that the government isn’t receiving enough revenue from oil royalties, the fact remains that over the last decade our resource sector has provided fairly consistent revenues to the province. Since 2006, Alberta has averaged roughly $10 billion a year in resource revenue.

It is clear that Alberta does not have a revenue problem. The government’s record breaking, out of control spending is the reason Alberta is heading back into debt.

Unfortunately, rather than find ways to spend more reasonably, the Premier’s solution is to find more money to spend.

Premier Redford has subtly been pushing the message that in order to balance the budget, we must raise taxes. Her top advisor, former MP Lee Richardson, said Albertans are ready for a tax hike.

Her government has also opened up

discussions about hiking fees, bringing back health-care premiums, and implementing a provincial sales tax.

New taxes and tax hikes are the last things Albertans need. Albertans know higher taxes hurt families and the middle class most. Higher taxes also hurt small businesses, endanger jobs, and put economic growth at risk. Alberta’s low tax environment is one of our greatest competitive edges, and should be preserved.

More taxes would not solve the main problem with Alberta’s finances. It is time to stop the tax talk and start living within our means. The government does not need to reflexively spend every dollar that comes into its possession. Government should set annual spending limits and prioritize those funds accordingly, and identify areas of wasteful spending and eliminate them.

But the PC government remains unwilling to take the necessary steps to fix the fiscal mess they put us in. The government needs to get spending under control, and it needs to start with its own house.

If there’s one thing Albertans can count on, it’s that as long as the PCs continue to overspend, overtax and mismanage our finances, the Wildrose Official Opposition will be there to stand up for low taxes and strong fiscal management.

As your MLA, I look forward to hearing your concerns about taxes, the budget, or any other matter. Please never hesitate to contact me with your comments and concerns.

Pg. 11

HAPPY EASTER SUNDAY, March 31, 2013 10:00AM - 2:00PM

ENJOY AN ELABORATE SEAFOOD & PRIME RIB BUFFET

SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET

Salad Bar, Seafood Station with Jumbo Shrimp, Crab Legs & Sushi 12 Hot Entrée’s with Eggs Benedict & Belgium Waffles a Kids Buffet Station & an outstanding Dessert Buffet

Fun for the whole Family With Activities & Entertainment for the kids!

Balloons, Face Painting, Pictures with the Easter Bunny, Plus a chocolate treat for each child!!

Reservations Required 403-502-8176

On the Red Carpet wit h GAINSBORO SPOTLIGHT

(“Guys & Dolls” performance by Crescent Heights High School. Photographs by Gainsboro Studio)

Two of Medicine Hat’s most talented young women are showcased this month. May I introduce Shannon McCubbin and Kelly Warkentin? These outstanding students are seniors at Crescent Heights High School. Both jointly choreographed this year’s production of “Guys and Dolls,” which closed another sold out run from February 6 through the 15th. Both girls started dancing from age three, Shannon studying at Hanson School of Dance, and Kelly through the College program.

The CHHS Theater Arts Program, headed up by Jennifer Davies is famous for delivering Broadway productions on a grand scale. A fifteen piece orchestra complimented the show. Patrons are hard pressed to remember that the performing thespians and dancers are students; ranging from grade seven to twelve. This is the raw material that our March Spotlight recipients, Kelly and Shannon, molded into a spectacle beautiful to behold.

Both choreographed last years “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying.” I didn’t think they could possibly top those performances, but I was wrong. Honestly, having seen the actual Broadway version twice, starring both John Larroquette and Daniel Radcliffe or Beau Bridges and Nick Jonas; I can say I think that CHHS was much more entertaining.

Of coarse Broadway’s polished finish was superior. But with CHHS’s acting and comedy, and the fact we were watching students; tipped the scale toward Kelly and Shannon. The complex dance routines, such as “Brotherhood of Man,” were, just as good, if not better than Broadway.

These artful young women were responsible for that quality of choreographic production. Both agreed if they hadn’t first tackled “How to Succeed,” they never could have made this years Production of “Guys and Dolls” a success. It’s difficult to take forty high school boys and turn them into seasoned, “dancers.” In total - 80 students were brought up to speed, forty girls rounding out the troupe.

We all became family, “after spending hours together dancing.” We talk in the halls whether cast members are in grade seven or seniors.

Rehearsals back in the beginning, they say, had some trials; with their peers not listening to or respecting them. Feelings changed as results began to prove the talent of the “teachers;” and unbelieving student’s experienced a sense of great accomplishment. I have been continually astounded to witness the results brought forward by these two grade twelve students. Sold out audiences also agreed by offering consistent boisterous standing ovations.

Shannon’s plans are to move on to become a speech pathologist, and Kelly is taking a year off before pursuing an elementary teaching degree. Dance, and their experiences at CHHS will continue to have an amazing place in their lives.

The Gainsboro Spotlight wishes to add one more ovation for two of our best and brightest. Way to go Kelly and Shannon!

Gainsboro Studio (403) 526 - 3054 joan@gainsboro.ca

“We would teach one simple step, then another, and so on, until we combined all the moves into a complicated routine. Audiences were treated to back flips off five foot risers, leaps over the heads of standing upright actors, break dancing, and more. A full compliment of performers moved about the stage for show tunes such as “Sit Down Your Rocking the Boat” in a skillful and tightly choreographed display.

(Above: Choreographers Shannon McCubbin and Kelly Warkentin, Right: “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”) Pg. 13

Chasing Sleep?

By Dr. Jason Schnieder

A

s we get older, our sleep becomes more disrupted and non-rejuvenating. We find ourselves having a difficult time falling asleep, wake up many times through the night or sleep through the night but wake up feeling like we never slept a wink. If our quantity and/or quality of sleep becomes less and poorer, we will come under many physical, mental and emotional deficits that will affect every aspect of our lives.

area]. The longer we stay in this elevated cortisol state (adrenal exhaustion), our sleep at night becomes lighter and we begin to wake up more with greater difficulty falling back asleep and feel tired in the morning.

Eventually our adrenal glands throw in the towel and cannot keep up this elevated cortisol level, so they dramatically decrease cortisol production (adrenal fatigue). This decrease in production results in that feeling like you never slept and you are fatigued all day long regardless of how much you slept the night before [Diagram 3].

Sleep problems may indicate a deeper issue lurking under the surface. This deeper issue can affect our very own survival. It all starts with our adrenal glands and a stress hormone that they produce called cortisol. Cortisol has the opposite rhythm of melatonin. Cortisol is highest in the morning when we wake up and then begins to decline until it reaches its lowest point (typically between 8-10pm) when we should be getting tired [Diagram 1: green area].

As life progresses and we encounter many stresses, either big or small, our adrenal glands begin to make more cortisol to handle the increased stress load. Our body adapts by elevating cortisol in the evening making it difficult to fall asleep [Diagram 2: black

Treating sleep issues, one must address stress management which in turn will balance cortisol. This sounds easy but it isn’t. Why? First, one must determine what stage of adrenal dysfunction they are

Pg. 14

Diagram 1

in. If this is not determined correctly, the wrong adrenal support will be used causing negative results. Secondly, the nervous system must be balanced. If the nervous system is not addressed, it will continue to stress the adrenal glands creating a vicious cycle. Thirdly, any other internal or external stressor must be reduced to ensure rapid adrenal repair and a return of proper sleep cycle. And finally, one must correct sleep hygiene habits.

Pharmaceutical medications for sleep do not address underlying cortisol issues and will result in a temporary sleep effect with the side effect of feeling groggy the next day and dependency. Please exhaust all your available options before considering this method for sleep.

Diagram 2

Diagram 3

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It’s Most Likely Not Your Fault

By Scott Stenbeck

The most common time that people separate is just before or after Christmas. My office is now getting back to normal from the influx of new divorce and separation matters after the holidays. However, there are a significant number of people though they have separated in the last month or two are going to wait several months or longer, before they actually make an appointment to see me for some advice. Sometimes, the longer someone waits, the worse their prospects can be.

I believe the reason people often wait to obtain legal advice after a separation, is due to feelings of failure and embarrassment. No one ever thinks when they get married that they may some day be part of the 50% statistic of marriages that don’t survive. But, after a long time being involved in family and divorce law I maintain, with a strong degree of confidence, that the situation is not one you should berate yourself over concluding it is your failure.

Even if you did make some mistakes, marriages generally don’t end for one single reason, but rather an intertwining of several factors.

Consider this. When “’till death do us part” was first invented centuries ago, that could have meant until next Tuesday. I think one reason that divorce is so prevalent is simply because we are living longer, almost twice as long as we did just four or five generations ago. That means people experience varied life stages each affording opportunity to grow apart.

Related to that point, we all grow and change. In a sense, picking someone earlier in life that you intend to be with forever is like trying to hit a moving target. Ask yourself, am I the same person now that I was ten years ago? Or twenty? You really can’t tell, factoring the passage of time and changing circumstances such as financial commitments, and children, exactly who this person

you are marrying today, is going to be in a decade or two. Don’t forget, while they may have committed to the version of you that you were at the time of the wedding, you have changed as well. This isn’t a matter of fault and blame, it’s just life.

As well, I think we have higher standards now than may have been the case centuries ago. Most of us BUSINESS have relatively comfortable lives, in the sense that we have shelter and more than enough food. We don’t need to stay together because we will starve otherwise. Opposed to people married a hundred years ago, where necessity often dictated riding out a poor match. There were probably a lot of couples in that time that would have separated if circumstances allowed. Our higher standards are not just predicated on having our basic needs met, we also expect to be as happy as possible in our long term relationships.

There are more people around, closer and more accessible than ever, from whom we can choose if we are not happy as perhaps we could be.

are separating amicably, that is almost a better reason to get in to see a lawyer right away. Have a consent agreement settling all issues drawn up as soon as possible while you both still agree on major issues. Members of my profession have solicitor-client privilege, and no one is going to know but you about your situation. Don’t let shame or embarrassment, which you don’t need to feel anyway, stop you from handling a situation that can have serious repercussions if let be for too long.

Scott Stenbeck Local divorce litigation lawyer

So look, if you were showering and felt a lump in a strange place, you wouldn’t put off getting into a doctor, even if it was a bit embarrassing. If it’s nothing, great, but if it is significant, delay and late detection have never been cited as positives for the treatment of any disease.

Divorce and separation aren’t much different. I’m not saying take your ex to Court if that’s not necessary, but at least get some advice as to what kind of situation you are in legally, and what to expect. There is no set of circumstances in a divorce or separation that make waiting to seek legal advice a good idea. If you are hostile and at each other’s throats, well, you are going to need a lawyer to enforce a parenting arrangement, support arrangements, and a property split. Obviously the sooner you start, the better a result you usually negotiate. But if you

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Windows 7 or Windows 8?

How to Choose

By Rae Bolduc

A

lthough Windows 8 has been out since October 2012, there are still some retailers (like Computer Central) offering computers and notebooks with Windows 7 operating system. Some gaming benchmarks reported by various reviews indicate little performance improvements overall and in some instances Windows 7 actually outperforms Windows 8. If you are wondering about whether to upgrade from 7 to 8 or if you are looking for a new computer in the near future, you may want to take the following points into consideration before making your decision.

Windows 8 is all about creating a common user interface across multiple devices. Cell phones, tablets, laptops, desktops, game boxes, all having the same look and feel to them – that is if they have a touch screen. If not then they will just all look the same, the feel will be slightly different. Windows 8 is specifically designed for a touch screen interface, although it still works just fine with a keyboard and mouse. When a Windows 8 machine first starts up, the first screen you see is a touch interface. It would seem that if you do not have a touch screen, the reasons for upgrading an older system or buying a new tower with Windows 8 are hard to justify.

There’s a popular misconception about computers that they are obsolete the minute you take them out of the store. While it may be true that there will always be something newer or more powerful than the unit that you have, it does not mean that your computer is obsolete any more than your new car is obsolete the minute you drive it off the lot. Something becomes obsolete when it doesn’t do what you need it to do. When customers ask us if we think they should upgrade their computer or not, we always tell them, “ If it’s doing what you need it to do then there’s no need to replace it.”

When Windows 7 was first released in 2009, it was a huge improvement over Windows Vista and generally received favorable reviews.

Here we are some years later and it is still doing a good job. There are even those still using Windows XP. If you are using either one of these and are still happy with how they work for you, you may get some comfort in knowing that Microsoft has committed support for Windows XP until April 2014 and for Windows 7 until the year 2020. That means if you buy a printer or camera or some other peripheral for your computer, they will come with drivers for your operating system.

Some people do not react productively to change. While the Desktop feature from previous versions of Windows is still included, the familiar “START” button has been eliminated in Windows 8, as has the start “MENU”. Instead you must deal with the Start Screen to launch your programs or to shut your computer down. If you don’t like change, this may be one change you especially will not appreciate.

Pg. 18

We are seeing the odd compatibility issue with Windows 8 and some programs and some devices. As always with the launch of a new operating system, it sometimes takes a while for vendors to update the drivers for their devices, and proprietary programs, like point of sale systems are often the last to get updated If you are undecided and think you may want to buy a computer with Windows 8 now, thinking you can always downgrade to Windows 7 if it doesn’t work out, you may be in for a surprise.

While the Pro version of Windows comes with downgrade rights to a previous version, the Home Premium versions do not. Upgrading from 7 to 8 is easy, but going the other way is challenging and costly. Unfortunately, the best upgrade deals that Microsoft offered will have

expired by the time this gets to press.

The best reasons to buy a Windows 8 computer are probably just a matter of personal preference although Windows 8 does have built in antimalware protection that loads on startup before Windows loads, providing an extra level of security and protection. Some other improvements include account sync, better multiple monitor support, and faster startup times. If you are going to purchase a touch screen and see yourself using your computer like a tablet then Windows 8 could be for you. One feature that I find appealing is the ‘live tiles’ that are constantly updating when emails, Stock Market information, Facebook updates or weather notices are updated.

Either way, you don’t need to decide today.

Rae Bolduc Owner/Operator Computer Central Corp, Medicine Hat

IS FREEDOM OF SPEECH A MEMORY?

By Scott Cowan

In today’s politically correct world, freedom of speech is being defined and adjudicated through liberal filters of what’s “offensive.” These NDP / liberal socialist brown shirts are everywhere.

We’re hearing NDP Mulclair shout at a Christian organization that receives $500,000.00 government dollars to provide water wells to Africans.

Never mind that they’ve spent millions of private donations in the same cause. What is their crime? As a Christian organization they believe certain behaviors sinful. Mulclair ignores that the Catholic Church he belongs to agrees. Are his Roman Catholic brethren also un-Canadian? Or the Salvation Army, World Vision and others? Are none of these organizations safe from NDP bigots?

Socialists extend NO tolerance toward evangelical Christians, Catholics, or Jews. They are maligned, and demonized in the media. Conservatives belonging to any of those groups are especially targeted for specialized character assignation, and personal destruction. Why? Because they are the last line of defense advocating traditional values, free speech, and capitalism.

Which leads me to February’s article in these pages? I received a lengthy e-mail accusing me of having “extreme political agendas,” “a very pronounced racist slant that I am offended by.” This critic went on to say I used Spotlight’s “medium to promote intolerance and offend people.”

He claimed I was suggesting that, “billions of Chinese and Muslims of the world are ready and waiting to invade. This statement is intolerant and racist and is inflammatory.”

I offered to print his entire letter, however as with all socialist sympathizers, he wanted to cast his intolerant personal attacks from the comfort of anonymity. He in fact made veiled threats, if I named my source.

I would ask my friend, with his head so far in the sand, if he’s noticed the hundreds of recent stories, about gun control in Canada’s media.

Remember 9/11 and the Canadian loss of life?

How about terrorists arrested in our Parliament Buildings, seeking to capture and behead Canada’s Prime Minister? North America HAS been invaded! I did not make suggestions…I declared factual truth! China is fast eclipsing the USA as the world’s economic and military super power.

Let’s not forget they’re a communist nation unchanged by economic success. They cast aspirations of dominance all over the world. Soft targets in Africa are being eaten. They have no problem buying what’s easier than conquest, such as oil sands in Canada.

It’s no stretch to extrapolate the changes that might occur in Toronto, where un-successful votes on implementing “Sharia Law,” have already taken place. Imagine compromises failing liberal politicians will bargain to retain power.

Before more weak leftists are offended by candor, let’s look at recent news reports. Canadian women have suffered attempted and deadly “honor killings.” Young Canadian women are being shipped to homelands where they’re married to men decades older. They’re forced to endure female circumcision, mutilation, because women shouldn’t have sexual enjoyment. They’ve been assimilated, westernized, and then sent back to virtual slavery. Their cries are never heard on foreign soil. In most Muslim countries, gays are executed.

My friend declares me intolerant discussing the subject. These principals are being mainstreamed in our homeland. The Calgary Sun reported CSIS as saying Canada is a hotbed of terrorist recruitment.

I’m NOT suggesting all Muslim people are bad, or terrorists hiding in Canada.

But there are Muslim governments committed to our (“Evangelicals are un-Canadian” - Mulcair, Leader of the Official Opposition) destruction. They’re infiltrat-

ing and carrying out attacks which will escalate.

Canadian Muslim’s live in fear of retribution of speaking out, or for the safety of family members back home. Hence my article on guns as a necessary tool that must not be further restricted. More people should be properly trained in the handling of firearms.

I would also ask my liberal critic who penned, “Dozens of children recently died in a public manner, this is not a topic”… I should be discussing. My friend, have you heard of the Taber school shooting? I believe it’s a concern on the minds of many in our community. The time for discussion is now, precisely because of the recent Sandy Hook shooting; by a deranged mental patient. Or is your problem, as is always the rub with leftists simply that the article advocated the value of self defense?

A recent story appeared detailing five assailants who entered a man’s bedroom in the middle of the night. I don’t know about you, but I have no problem believing they had intent to harm.

The sleepy victim met the intruders with armed resistance. Death and wounding occurred, as with all such cowards, some ran away. Criminals tend to retreat when innocent people shoot back. The result, the victim was charged. He didn’t wait for them to shoot first, from ten feet.

Taking firearms from law abiding citizens strips them of their independence, and their capacity for self-defense.

Our bloated government values community over the individual, material equality over individual achievement and competition, security over self-government.

What would the NDP do with a majority government? Social engineers trust their own lives and safety in the hands of others rather than themselves. Conservatives know that the ultimate guarantee against evil and tyranny…foreign or domestic…is individual empowerment. The ability to defend oneself, through force if necessary, or where evil triumphs because good men can do nothing. To my soft, weak, fearful, compliant, critics …the truth may offend you; but ultimately it will cure.

President Gerald Ford once said, “A government big enough to give you everything you want, is a government big enough to take from you everything you have.”

Comments send to scott-cowan@live.com Pg.P.19 13 3

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the

“TRUE COLOR”

of South Africa

N

ineteen years ago, in 1994, South Africa received its so-called Democratic status with the election of Nelson Mandela as the first black South African president. Today South Africa is known as the “Rainbow Nation “with all its different nationalities within it boarders, all to be as one nation.

But what is the True Colour of South Africa…??

According to experts more than 3000 white farmers in South Africa, known as Boers, have been brutally massacred over the last decade. Many more, including children and even infants have also been raped or tortured so savagely that mere words could not possibly convey the horror. No Government or Democracy should allow so many murders on a part of its community.

Statistics of Agri South Africa has shown that 5 farm attacks and 2 farm murders take place each week in South Africa. The year 2013 is labelled as a dark year for white South African farmers, due to statistics there will be 82 farm murders in 2013 in comparison with the 51 farm murders in 2012. Absence of condemnation of the violent attacks and murders gives the impression that the government approves of it.

The South African government, dominated by the communist-backed African National Congress (ANC) has responded to the surging wave of racist murders by denying the phenomenon, implausibly claiming that many of the attacks are simply regular crimes. Meanwhile the former ANC youth leader, Julius Malema is singing “KILL THE BOER, KILL THE FARMER”, aimed at inciting murder against white South African farmers.

The South African Supreme Court ruled that the song advocating murder of whites was unlawful hate speech, but the president of South Africa, ANC’s Jacob Zuma, incredibly began to sing the song too. Since then the number

of murdered South African farmers has been growing each month.

A farmer was forced on his knees at his farm gate where his was shot in the forehead. This scene that is a reminder of an execution, played off shortly after this farmers’ wife was shot in their garden in front of their farm house.

These murders came shortly after a large group of people repeatedly sang the song “KILL THE BOER, KILL THE FARMER, on farmers’ farms. At this specific incident nothing was stolen, thus the point of view from the South African government that farm murders are only regular crimes are fatally wrong.

Meanwhile the South African government is stepping up efforts to disarm the struggling white farmers too stripping them of their final line of defence. Many of the guns confiscated from whites by officials have later been found at the gruesome murder scenes of white farmers.

Farmers are being killed by throwing boiling water over them, foreheads and throats are being slashed. Ankles are being cut open to the bone. Farmers are being hit with machetes over their heads and bodies. Autopsies have shown that victims’ genitals were brushed, necks and skulls were broken, teeth and tongues were crushed, even intestines were torn, as the victims were tortured and murdered, I’m only mentioning a few ways in which farmers are being killed and tortured.

Children and infants are forced to watch as their parents are hit by a machete only to be murdered themselves.

The United Nations defines genocide as “the deliberate and systematic destruction, in whole or part, of an ethnic, racial, religious or national group”. According to the UN, among the crimes that can constitute genocide are causing serious harm to members of a specific minority group, deliberately inflicting conditions on the minority aimed at bringing about its destruction in whole or in part.

The nature of these attacks/murders cannot

merely be seen as regular crimes. The way in which the farmers are being killed and tortured is a sign of genocide. Murderers even leave notes on farm gates “we have killed the farmer and his family and we will be back”.

How can the above mentioned not be seen as deliberate attacks against the white South African farmers?!

Dr. Stanton of Genocide Watch said during a fact-finding mission to South Africa and I quote: “the farm murders, we have become convinced are not accidental, it was very clear that the massacres were not common crimes, especially because of the absolute barbarity used against the victims” While most of the world refuses to acknowledge what is happening in South Africa, the non-profit group Genocide Watch declared that preparations for genocide activities against white South African farmers were underway and that the early phases of genocide has possibly already begun. There are less than 5million whites in South Africa, about 10% of the population, down from almost a quarter decades ago.

So what is the True Colour of South Africa??

The answer is with no doubt – WHITE GENOCIDE! The above mentioned figures are only an estimation and is not accurate because regardless of fierce criticism authorities stopped tracking statistics that would provide a more accurate picture of what is truly going on in the so-called “Rainbow Nation”.

For more info go to: (www.thetruthaboutsouth africa.com)

Editors Note: The authors name has been withheld for reasons pertaining to fears of retribution in the author’s home of South Africa.

The author is however a practicing lawyer and has worked extensively in government affairs.

The author has very real fears of speaking out in an internet world where colleagues and more importantly enemies may read this article as easily as someone in Medicine Hat. Pg. 21

CROSSWORD

PUZZLE Crossword puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com (http://www.bestcrosswords.com). Used with permission.

Across 1- Polygon having 12 sides 10- Construct 15- Worthy of imitation 16- Stan’s pal 17- Converts into gas 18- Beneath 19- “Hold On Tight” band 20- Conger catcher 22- One ___ million 23- Endure 25- Draw out 28- Lazy 31- Arrange 33- Diving seabird 34- Distance across a circle 35- Epidermis 37- Simple cell division 41- ___ cases (generally) 46- Specialist in religious law 47- Loss of muscle coordination 48- Percentage of light reflected by a planet

49- Trent of the Senate 50- Nasser’s org.

51- Metal spikes 56- Crackpot 57- Part of an act 60- Occurring every three years 63- ___ the hole 64- Utter curses 65- Big dipper 66- Earliest person to see a sunrise, typically Down 1- Emerge 2- Salt of oxalic acid 3- Place in a bank account 4- Funnyman Philips 5- EMT’s skill 6- That’s ___!

7- Long look 8- Baseball’s Hershiser 9- AMEX counterpart 10- Short cut 11- Suffix with glob 12- Unlawful 13- Treat as a celebrity

14- Dehydrate 21- Finery 24- Rocky hilltop 26- Bewail 27- Having four sharps 29- Unit of time 30- Deception 31- Writer of lyric poetry 32- Rocker Ocasek

36- ___ the season...

37- Random 38- State in Malaysia 39- Engender 40- Foot digit 42- ___ de mer 43- Pertaining to Oxford 44- Locate 45- Narc

52- End in ___ (draw) 53- “The Joy of Cooking” author Rombauer 54- Kissers 55- Spanish muralist 58- Goose egg 59- Wind dir.

61- Born 62- ATM maker;

Answer: Pg. 20

Pg. 22

P. 15

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