Homes Dec 28 by Lori Kluge

DEALS

BOXING DAY SPECIALS IN EFFECT NOW!!

HOMES

1365 Ottawa St. 13

306-790-7771 30

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B R E A K I N G N E W S A T L E A D E R P O S T.C O M S EC T I O N F

S AT U R DAY, D EC E M B ER 28, 2013

Encouraging design to go with the flow Feng shui takes in the elements of nature MARTA GOLD POSTMEDIA NEWS It’s a common enough experience, but one that’s hard to articulate: You walk into a space and it feels welcoming, balanced, peaceful. It’s not the decor exactly, or the colour, or the style of furniture, but something more elusive — a sensation, an impression. Some would attribute it to feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice of arranging a home or other space around particular colours, materials and thematic elements to balance the flow of energy, and with it, the experience of the people inside. “It’s always in a subtle way,” says feng shui master Kirsten Proulx, co-owner of Henry’s Purveyor of Fine Things, a home decor store in Edmonton that has been offering feng shui consult-

ing services for the past several years. “I feel it, and most people do. They don’t know what it is, but they think, ‘Gee, it feels good in here.’ We get that in the store all the time …. It’s just a good flow.” Proulx and her sister, Janice Funston, have set up their shop incorporating, as much as possible, principles of feng shui in its design, both to make it welcoming and to illustrate how it’s done for customers. Increasingly, people are turning to a more modern, westernized version of feng shui principles to create harmony in the design and esthetic of their own spaces, at home and at work. Consultants like Proulx and Funston help people incorporate feng shui into their lives. “Most often when people are looking at feng shui, they’re looking at improving something in their life …. Or something doesn’t feel right in the home, something’s not working for them,” says Proulx. Most of their clients want to make some simple chang-

es to their existing homes, although some do consult about plans for building a home that incorporates feng shui principles, she adds. In China, homes and public buildings are commonly built according to feng shui designs. Traditional feng shui is based on the compass and land forms, with each direction representing a different element. Proulx uses a ver sion based on a “bagua” or zone-energy map, in which a space is divided into eight zones, each corresponding to one component of a person’s life, such as relationships, creativity or spirituality. Stephanie Gruss, a feng shui practitioner, teacher and consultant in Edmonton through her company, Balancing Spaces, says feng shui, at its most basic, is about “the relationship between people and their space.” “A lot of people think it’s about religion, but it’s not. It has to do with the science of the elements of nature,” she adds. “It’s a holistic view on life.”

See FENG SHUI, F5

SHAUGHN BUTTS/Postmedia News

Feng shui consultant Stephanie Gruss say wood items, like this table and chair, as well as natural items such as fruits and plants, are important feng shui elements in a kitchen.

REG31102616_1_1

Find your freedom.

For more information, visit www.thecreeks.ca REG32800156_1_1

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HO M E S

S aturday, De cember 28, 2013

Leader-Post • leaderpost.com

MAKE IT RIGHT

Winter can wreck your house — and your budget MIKE HOLMES Make it Right

Winter can really do a number on your house: Melting snow piled up against your foundation can lead to a leak in the basement; salt can eat away at your mortar; ice damming on the roof can cause water damage to the structure below; or a non-insulated pipe running through a cold zone could burst. Luckily, there are a few things we can do to minimize the damage from Old Man Winter. When it comes to de-icers the most common is salt, but it damages your lawn and garden and eats away at rock, concrete and mortar. It’s just one of those things that causes deterioration. Instead, after shovelling I apply a good layer of sand and gravel. And remember to shovel the snow away from your foundation walls, too. Concrete is porous and moisture from melting snow can be absorbed by foundation walls and penetrate into the basement.

A little more shovelling can go a long a way. Also, make sure that any pipes that run through cold zones — such as crawl spaces, a garage or along a wall that isn’t insulated, like in the basement — are properly wrapped with foam. Sometimes builders forget to insulate the lines properly in short runs — when the line temporarily goes under the insulation or where there’s a transition from the cold zone to the rest of the house. That’s a recipe for disaster. Ideally, you want your plumbing lines installed on the warm side of the insulation to prevent them from freezing and bursting. If they aren’t on the warm side the pipes have to be rerun. It’s a project worth planning for 2014. Then there are ice dams. If the bottom of your roof along the eavestroughs is full of ice, and the snow starts to melt, the water isn’t going to flow down the eavestroughs and downspouts. It’s going to go right back up under the shingles. And once water creeps under the shingles it can drain inside exterior walls, causing damage to framing, sheathing, siding and drywall. There are a couple of reasons for ice dams: No. 1, your eaves-

The Holmes Group

Protecting homes throughout the winter by using safer products and doing proper maintenance can prevent more expensive problems come spring time. troughs (gutters) could be clogged with leaves and debris. Add freezing temperatures and you’ve got the potential for a frozen channel of muck. And No. 2, heat loss. The best way to prevent an ice dam caused by clogged gutters is to get them cleaned in the spring and fall. But if you’re dealing with

an ice dam now, call a professional roofer. They can take a look at your gutters and make sure there aren’t any breaks or disconnections that could be making a bad situation worse. Some roofers or ice-dam removal companies recommend using steam to melt the ice, but I wouldn’t introduce steam to a freezing environment. Instead, there are de-icers that are noncorrosive to roofing materials that can be sprinkled along the frozen channel to melt the ice. One product is a calcium chloride flake — it looks like snow. Once everything has melted, all the debris from the eavestroughs can be removed. The other and more popular cause of ice dams is heat loss. Patches of melted snow on the roof are a definite sign, and if that’s the case, cleaning the gutters is not a permanent fix. The ice damming will come back. The only real solution is adding more insulation and ventilation in the attic and making sure it’s properly sealed off from the rest of the home. If you’re dealing with a roof leak in the winter, call a professional roofer. They can tell if there’s a problem with the roof structure, the flashing or the shingles in an area and offer solutions. You might

just need a relatively small repair. Another winter threat to your roof is hail. Hailstones can make serious dents on an asphalt roof that can potentially compromise the roof ’s integrity, to the point that you should call your insurance policy agent. Typically, a homeowner files a claim; an adjuster visits the site to appraise the damage and decides, based on industry standards and the extent of the damage, whether or not the insurance will cover the cost of a replacement. How do you prevent hail damage to your roof ? Hail-resistant shingles resist damage, but they also cost more money. Metal roofs are also more resistant but again, they are also very expensive, and I wouldn’t recommend replacing your roof during winter. It can be done, but you risk exposing your home to the elements and the conditions make the work more difficult. If you can, hold off until the spring. But start calling contractors now! Because the good ones will be booked come peak season. Catch Mike Holmes on Holmes Makes It Right, Tuesdays on HGTV. For more information, visit hgtv.ca. For information on home renovations, visit makeitright.ca

C O M M E N TA R Y

We’re still raising the bar here in Saskatchewan ALAN THOMARAT

CEO and President Canadian Home Builders’ Association — Saskatchewan Every day we break another record and it doesn’t look like that’s letting up any time soon. No, I’m not talking about the weather, what I’m getting at is growth across many sectors of the economy and the province. It’s been hard not to find good things being said about our cities, regions and province. Consider a few comments you’ve heard lately: ■ Re c e n t l y, o u r g ove r n m e n t said during the financial update that so far this year, Saskatchewan ranks either first or second in Canada in terms of economic g rowth, employment g rowth, low unemployment rate, average weekly earnings, value of international exports, manufacturing sales, retail sales, value of building per mits, number of housing starts and investment in both residential and non-residential construction. ■ This province has surpassed 1.1 million people, when many said that was a figure not achievable in Saskatchewan, and we have more people working this year than we

did last year. ■ Further, a recent report from the Conference Board of Canada says Alberta and Saskatchewan are faring better than others in Canada. In addition, our diversity and vibrant career market are keeping the province “on track” to maintain a growth agenda in 2014 and grow even more in 2015 as we strive to remain Canada’s fastestgrowing economy for many years to come. ■ Saskatchewan has been experiencing a population growth of 6.7 per cent since 2007. Last year the GDP was the second highest in the country, with employment at an all-time high of more than 550,000 participants. We set records and then break them every day. That’s continuous improvement. More than a year ago, Warren Lovely, with CIBC World Markets, said the economic update then had shown Saskatchewan’s economy continues to power ahead. There is pressure on resource revenue, but the real gross domestic product growth outlook is even brighter, he said. “Within Canada, Saskatchewan remains a growth leader,” he wrote. “For the current year, the improved tone to real GDP growth captures sturdy domestic demand. Job creation, population growth, consumer spending and investment activity (both residential and non-residential) remains buoyant,

and the province boasts top marks across a host of provincial economic indicators. Consistent with its relative economic outperformance, Saskatchewan maintains a healthier budgetary position than other provinces,” he added. Nothing’s really changed this year and the forecast for the future is brighter yet, though not without challenges. But that’s why we strive for continuous improvement.

Population drives our growth Continued sound population growth remains one of the strong fundamental elements in Saskatchewan. Our strategic direction and strong job growth clearly have this province on track to achieve Premier Brad Wall’s target of 1.2 million Saskatchewan residents by 2020. While some researchers are suggesting our housing market will start to see a decline, the facts do not support this for many reasons. There is a strong and diversified industry base in the province supporting new career opportunities for Canadians. There is still pressure on housing prices, but making sure there is a continuous supply of new housing units in the market segments that show the highest demand is the way to address this issue and also meet labour market demand across the province. The housing industry has built an-

DECOR

other 35,000 homes in the last five years. Regina alone has increased production by more than 300 per cent in that time. We used to get excited in Regina and Saskatoon when we built 1,000 homes per year, but both cities are building capacity and easily maintain levels above 3,000 per year and have set sights on reaching 4,000 in the near term. This province’s largest cities will lead the country in many categories again, strengthening Saskatchewan’s leadership role in Canada and across the globe. Many regions in the province are now collaborating more to maximize on potential and entrench this economic prosperity and the positive and entrepreneurial climate that abounds.

Alan Thomarat is president and CEO of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association-Saskatchewan and the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders Association. He also serves as a director on the board of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association in Ottawa.

Luxury Condos in Windsor Park. 2 bedroom and den options, 1063-1434 sq. ft., ground level garage parking.

Starting at

+ net GST

Jason Cossette 306-551-7666

Elaine Gorski 306-539-7628

We can’t live without you.

A Joint Gilroy Homes / Varsity Homes Project

Anson Square Condos REG31986732_1_7

UIR

INQ

Units starting at $340,000 plus GST, includes indoor heated parking and executive ﬁnishes.

1515 Anson Road - College and Broad

Marketed by:

Terrie Dunand 306-530-9050

Supplied

Gather round, bookworms: A good reading lamp will let you keep those noses in the books longer, by helping reduce eye strain. Whatever style you choose, make sure the lamp focuses the light directly on your reading material, either with an adjustable arm or by ensuring the bottom of the shade is at the right height, just below eye level. The quality of light also makes a difference. Fluorescent or LED bulbs give off a cooler white light, which provides better contrast between black text and a white page.

Maybe, thanks to you, life can go on.

313,640

ANN SUTHERLAND FOR POSTMEDIA NEWS

Discuss organ donation with your family.

NOW SELLING

T LL

Light it up with lamps

I have no doubt we’ll have more good news to reflect on this same time next year. This really is the new Saskatchewan. Many kind wishes for a Merry Christmas and safe holiday sea son from all of us at the Canadian Home Builders’ Association-Saskatchewan and our affiliates and councils across the Province, and all the best of health and success to you and your families in the new year.

This swing arm lamp from Park Lighting costs $252.80.

Email: terrie@queencityhomes.ca www.queencityhomes.ca

REG00180618_1_16

announcing

By: Fiorante Homes & Commercial Ltd. 6 units g! in remain

RE/MAX Crown Real Estate is pleased to welcome

JASON FRANSON/Postmedia News

This LED lamp provides specific task lighting for your desk, and the arm tucks away when not in use. Available at Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre for $281.03.

SANDSTONE TERRACE CONDOS IN PILOT BUTTE

Glenn Nichol I’ve been a Member of the Association of Regina Realtors for almost 20 years. My recent move to ReMax Crown provides key advantages for my valued clients. As an associate broker, I look eagerly towards 2014 and my associations with friends, peers, and of course future clients!

309,900

$ Starting at + GST Don’t miss out – call me today!

TERRIE DUNAND 306-530-9050

Email: terrie@queencityhomes.ca Website: www.pilotbuttecondos.ca

306-535-0148

1715 Badham Boulevard (off Broad Street)

Sat & Sun 1-4 PM

CANTERBURY COMMON

Phase II Over 90% SOLD Starting at $279,700 (plus GST) Marketed by:

Leanne Tourney rney Joyc Jo Joyce ycee Tourney yc 306-789-1700 REG31987139_1_1

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SHOW SUITE OPEN*

leannetourney@remax.net

joyce@joycetourney.com REG31986480_1_9

Leader-Post · leaderpost.com

CLASSIFIEDS

REAL ESTATE

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Acreages & Lots Adult Communities Commercial & Industrial Property Condos Duplexes, Doubles & Triplexes Houses Income & Revenue Property Manufactured & Mobile Homes New Homes Open Houses Real Estate Services Real Estate Wanted Retirement Residences & Senior Homes Townhouses & Garden Homes Vacation & Recreation Properties In Canada Vacation & Recreation Properties Outside Canada

Condos

Open Houses (Realtor)

306-789-7666

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Bungalow 2 bedroom on main • ﬁnished basement • garage • Quite bay location MLS® 478073

Great starter Bi-level, Great Location, Great Floor Plan

Janine Wilson 306-537-3200

C892855

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Open Houses (Realtor)

Got Questions?

HARBOUR LANDING TOWNHOUSE CONDO

$309,000

Jason Cossette 306-551-7666 jasoncossette.ca

OPEN HOUSE - SAT. DEC. 28th, 2-4pm 979 GULL ROAD - $454,900

REALTOR: LORETTA SERNOWSKI (306)537-3500

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Condos

OPEN HOUSE

2 bed condo Harbour Landing. 5 Appl. Incl. Green space and next to a nature reserve & walk path. Sat. & Sun. 2 - 5 53-5246 Aerodrome Rd Call (306) 351- 9576 C880697

C892885

HARBOUR LANDING 2-STOREY CONDO

Let us help you write an ad!

Houses

C415668

Houses

Dennis Galandy, A.B.R.

Homelife Crawford Realty/Crawford Homes Ltd. 306-522-MOVE(6683) dennis@522move.ca www.522move.ca “When you meet me you will move”

MLS® Trademark owned by the Canadian Real Estate Association. Used Under License.

Paulette Robinson

$235,900

306-530-3000

REAL ESTATE TEAM

Janine Wilson 306-537-3200

306-522-SELL (7355)

306-537-3200

MON-THURS. 7-9PM SAT. & SUN. 1 - 5 PM

Craigg Adam

• 1841 sq. ft. 2 story • Excellent choice of lots • Tons of ﬂoor plans to choose from • Or design your own ﬂoor plan • Ask about our guaranteed trade-in program

Janine Wilson

Starting at

THE

SAT AND SUN 1:00-5:00 124 EMERALD RIDGE E. • WHITE CITY

EW TES 3 N SUI OW H S

Encore

info@crawfordhomes.ca

Show Home

OPEN HOUSE

4850 HARBOUR LANDING DR.

2 bedroom plus loft, 1 1/2 baths Quick Possession $299,900 MLS® 479874

LEADER-POST Classified

MLS® Trademark owned by the Canadian Real Estate Association. Used Under License.

525-9801

Danielle Wilson 306-536-0027

MLS® 481614

MLS® 481638

2 bedroom plus den. Clean. Quick possession. IAN JOHNSTON (306)533-7421

Open Plan, 2 bedroom plus loft, 1 1/2 baths. MLS® 477105

GREENS ON GARDINER $409,900

Over 1,900 sq. ft. 2 Story Bonus Room. Spacious Floor Plan.

SUNDAY, DEC. 29th 2-4pm 3740 7th Avenue East - Parkridge

Janine Wilson 306-537-3200

HAPPY NEW YEAR

WINDSOR PARK $589,900

GARDEN RIDGE CONDO $385,900

The Advice You Need,

* Business Partner

Houses

HAPPY NEW YEAR

The Name You Trust

Murray & Debby * Dollard

leaderpost.com/classifieds

call 306-522-7355 to place an ad

Saturday, December 28, 2013

Marilyn Burnett 306-536-4697

Mobile:

HAPPY NEW YEAR

HARBOUR LANDING $232,900

FAIRWAYS WEST $534,900

2 bedroom, open ﬂoor plan condo. Lower unit suite. Close to all amenities

1900 sq. ft. 2 storey. Bonus room. Former Gilroy Showhome

Houses

SMOKIN’ DEAL at $429,900

MLS® 481140

MLS® 481453

Janine Wilson 306-537-3200

Janine Wilson 306-537-3200 Acreages & Lots

LANE REALTY CORP.

INDIAN HEAD: 783.31 ac - Located South of Indian Head with 651 cultivated acres. QU’APPELLE: 14.4ac. - some bush/slough, dugout, well (seepage), overhead power line (runs across property). Located on Highway #1 adjacent to Qu’Appelle, SK REGINA: 12.45 ac. - located just 20 minutes North of Regina! Shop, hip roof barn, chicken coop, corrals, 1 3/4 storey house. WHITE CITY: 22ac. - located 7 minutes from White City on Highway 48, 2400 sq. ft. 2 storey home with shop & barn.

Compared with new homes in the city, you can’t beat this price! 2009-built R2000, hardwood, granite, maple cabinets, developed up and down....just minutes from Regina!

The Business Page Gets Results. Classified

Penny Milton 522-4726

306-522-SELL (7355)

C415302

Your Ad Will Stand Out With An Attention Grabbing Graphic!

JASON SELINGER (306) 539-7975

To view full color feature sheets for all of our CURRENT LISTINGS Visit our web site at www.lanerealtycorp.com

ATTENTION!

Book your ad online at leaderpost.com/ placeanad

LANE REALTY CORP.

Saskatchewan’s Farm & Acreage Specialists™ Ph: (306) 569-3380 Email: lanerealtycorp@sasktel.net

www.lanerealtycorp.com

RENTALS

C415229

call 306-522-7355 to place an ad – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Accommodation Wanted Acreages & Lots Apartment Sublets Apartments Apartments Furnished Commercial & Industrial Property Condos Duplexes, Doubles & Triplexes Executive & Luxury Houses Houses Furnished Manufactured & Mobile Homes Property Management Services Retirement Residences & Senior Homes Room & Board Room Without Board Shared Accommodation Townhouses & Garden Homes Vacation & Recreation Properties In Canada Vacation & Recreation Properties Outside Canada – Warehouse Space & Storage Service

Apartments 1 & 2 bdrms. East end & Cathedral. Call Jake 591-2736 or Bob 789-7727. C837781

1 & 2 BR, 25 Shaw St. Mature block, 306-949-0400 after 4pm

2 Br 316 Hamilton $1100 + util 1156/1454RobinsonSt. Room$550+sharedutils. 306-527-9555;533-5534 C881517

C886278

2 BR, quiet adult blk, prkg, 1 BR, avail Jan 1. st, adult bldg, lndry, security doors, N/P. balc. no pets, near Gen Hosp Northgate. Ref's. $900. 2348 Osler. $850. Reduced rent for caretaking (306) 596-8438 / 591-5837 duties. 306-536-2554 C893631

Apartments

Brand NEW

1, 2, 3 Bedrooms Available

Condos

411 Lorne St N 2 Bdrm - $1,015 565-3002/586-6909 4525 Rae St 2 Bdrm - $1,195 584-2330/586-6909 2830 Gordon Rd 1 Bdrm - $1,120 586-6909 2020 9th Ave N 1 Bdrm - $955 359-3840/586-6909 72 Angus Rd 1 Bdrm - $925 $300 move-in bonus 565-3002/586-6909 64 Froom Cres 1 Bdrm - $920 $300 move-in bonus 201-6053/586-6909 88 Angus Rd 1 Bdrm - $945 565-3002/586-6909 3871 Retallack St 2 Bdrm - $995 Newly renovated Jr 1 Bdrm - $825 586-0769/586-6909 Lease required; rent includes water, heat; no pets/no smoking C882082

C890326

ATTRACTIVE 1 BEDROOM Great for univ student close to downtown, quiet, hardwood, cat friendly. Please no texts 570-2076

Jan 1st. SOUTH: Nice, lrg 2 br, A/C, prkg. Close to all services. $900/mo. 306-591-2363 / 586-0275 Avail. Immed. 2BR furn, C883332 after 11am. quiet, 6 appls. balc. C893512 AVAIL now, 1 bdrm, newly $1850/mo 126 Froom Cres. SOUTH: large & very clean 1 569-1441. reno'd, $875/mo month, near Pasqua hosp. br, balc, security doors, C891808 prkg. Close to all services. ref req'd call 539-9201 C891788 $900/mo. 306-591-2363 Luxury Executive Condos 586-0275 after 11am Avail Now! 1 BR DT C891688 Furnished & Unfurn. 1700 & $875/mo. 2200 Lorne St. 1500 sqft. Avail. Immed. Lndry in bldg 536-4205. Apartments C892406 Call Lana at: 306-502-5262 C885869 AVAIL now, 2 bdrm, 4 appl, Furnished spacious, newly painted, CORMARK downtown, 1817 block Duplexes, ACCOMMODATIONS Quebec, $850 + heat Your Hotel Alternative! Doubles & and power, ref req'd, Corporate 1 & 2 BR fully call 539-9201 furnished suites. Util, Triplexes C891792 internet & housekeeping Avail now 2 BR condo, 5 incl. DT, S, & NW Regina + 2 BR Duplex. $1200 incl. appls, balc, prkg, security Lumsben loc's.. Min 3 nights utils. New finishes, Close to drs, newly reno'd, $1,350 stay. Daily, weekly, monthly. schools & parks. Lots of prkg. Avail Jan 1. 306-581-5027 incl heat, water. ref. req. 126 C891399 (306) 731-3040 Froom Cres, 569-1441 C893632 C891801

Cathedral, 1 Bdrm, $700 + Utilities. 4 Appliances, Mature Person. No pets Ph: (306) 551- 1451

C888902

Downtown- large 1 bdrm, 228 MOUNT ROYAL PL quite, muture building, Twnhse, 1200 sf, 2BR, 2.5 bath, $825/mo, $825 DD, No 6 appl, great rm, prkng. Avail pets 306-737-3148 Jan 1st. $1450. 584-5378 C893606

APARTMENTS FOR RENT 15 Vaughn St. 2 Bdrm - $1050 117 Procter Pl. Bach. - $700 1 Bdrm. - $900 2075 Francis 2 Bdrm - $1200 3 Bdrm - $1500 Call 306-591-2216

C893652

Duplexes, Doubles & Triplexes

Houses 3 bdrm, 2126 Elliott St. 4 appl, fenced yard, $1,400. Jan. 1. eilleen.schuster@sasktel.net 789-4882 usedregina OR kijiji

C881910

Apartments CARRIAGE COURT – 306-789-7614 2 bedroom units, includes heat, water, a/c, 5 appliances, amenities, parking. Sorry no pets. East location. CIR Commercial Realty Inc. o/a Colliers International

C890422

CLEAN AFFORDABLE SUITES. GREAT LOCATIONS. Visit bartlettrealestate.ca

C890695

Manufactured & Mobile Homes

Shared Accommodation

Room For Rent In Sedely ALBERT PARK 326 City View Estates $300/Month. Includes All Utilities. Call 306-885-2235 Albert Park . 840 sq. ft. 2 or 306-699-7344 bdrm, 1 bath mobile home C884447 close to shopping and Uni− versity. Four appliances. Large deck. 1 car garage. Vacation & C886232 Great yard. Immaculate. No Recreation Avail now, 2 BR suite on pets or smoking Low cost Properties froom cres, 4 appls, new utilities.$1,000 month. paint, parking, $1,100 util Outside Canada Call: 306−584−8754 incl. 306-537-7799 after 5 C893485 C887389 Downtown Scottsdale 2 BR Condo, avail. weekly/ Large $ Renovated 3 Bdrm, monthly rates. Call for Fall 900 Block Retallack Specials. (306) 522-6629. Room Without Call (306) 539-9190

UPLANDS half duplex 3 BR, C883339 2 Bath, $1400, available 3 BR bungalow, 1 bath, new Jan 1, close to all amenities. f l o o r s , l a m i n a t e , N / S Call: 306−209−6007 Available now, $1600 C893105 (306) 584-3796

Houses

•1.5 bdrm, newly painted, 4 appls, 8 block Retallack st, $785/mo •2 bdrm, newly painted 4 appls, fenced yard, 6 block King st, $900/mo •3 bdrm, 4 appls, very clean, fenced yard, $1275/mo, 3328 Avonhurst dr, ref req'd, ALL avail now 539-9201 C891777

2 Bedroom, 1 bath, 900 block Argyle Street Call (306) 539-9190

C893700

Commercial & Industrial Property

Condos

Call 205-2502 www.Trademarkhomes.ca

leaderpost.com/classifieds

C893703

FURNISHED & UNFURNISHED

RENTALS AVAILABLE Call Shawn’s Property Management Ltd. at

306-539-4715C886861

C880073

Board

2 BR, 15 Angus Rd. $850/mo, adult block call 306-949-4449 or 306-537-9902.

C888186

C893428

Townhouses & Garden Homes GREENWOOD PLACE – 306-789-0838 Clean 3 Bedroom, includes 4 appl., water. Sorry no pets. CIR Commercial Realty Inc. o/a Colliers International

C874667

SPACE FOR LEASE # 3- 4625 Albert St. - 500 sq. ft 2104B Grant Rd. - 1,864 sq.ft. 1376 Lorne St. - 5,600 sq. ft. 196B Massey Rd - 840 sq.ft. (newly renovated) 1417 Rose St - 4,000 sq.ft. Call now for details Adam Niesner, Jr. 569-1424 Website: www.niesner.com

Save gas and time…shop for bargains every day in the Classified Ads.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! from our Family to yours. ➛1080’ Two Storey with

C618794

• 3 bedrooms • 1 ½ bath • 4 available in Harbour Landing • Starting at $339,400 incl. tax • Choose your colours! • Base house $224,000 plus lot & GST.

NEED NEW RECRUITS?

Executive Walkout Bungalow ➛2572’ • Triple garage

Place your employment ad with us. The LEADER-POST has several options to give you the most exposure for your ad.

• Fireplace • 3 bedrooms plus study on Main • Fully ﬁnished basement with 2 bedrooms 2 baths, media room, wet bar, 10 ceilings on main • Many upgrades • Ready to view $1,189,000 including GST and lot • Gold spec house-base $591,560 plus lot & GST. • Call for more information or to view.

Call your Sales Rep today! 306-522-SELL (7355)

New Showhome

2572’ Walkout Bungalow 4925 Wright Road in Harbor Landing Sat & Sun 1-5pm

C415612

GARDEN OF EDEN ESTATES, WHITE CITY

NOW SELLING PHASE II LARGE LOTS INCL. CITY VIEW WALKOUTS; FULLY SERVICED, WITH PAVEMENT Home Builders Available

SEE SHOW HOME GUIDE gardenofeden@sasktel.net

306-781-2330

MAUI, Hawaii - 1BR condo oceanfront Kihei, Maui. Avail. February 2 - March 2 or partial. 306-585-1805

Visit our website

Al Giesbrecht 737-2863

Doug Giesbrecht 529-6161 Lori Van Woert 737-1070

www.giesbrechtteam.ca

doug@giesbrechtteam.ca

lori@giesbrechtteam.ca

Call one of the Giesbrecht Team for a no obligation consultation.

Ask About Our Guarantee Trade Program REG32800216_1_10

REG31986494_1_1

HOMES

S aturday, De cember 28, 2013

R E PA I R S

Leader-Post • leaderpost.com

The odds of finding someone who’ll buy your Siamese fighting turtle are about 1 in 100,000. No Problem. Our Classified reaches over 95,000 shoppers! Classified ads in the Leader-Post are a great value. You’ll have the best chance of finding a buyer fast for whatever you are selling. Call to place your ad today!

COUNTRY LIVING

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It’s tempting to wade in and do minor plumbing yourself. But research your job on the Internet or preferably by reading literature from the manufacturer before tackling the job.

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ally good informed decision,” he said. “If you have a good relationship with a contractor, they can actually come in and take a look at it and give you some input on whether or not you can tackle it yourself.” In addition to being an instructor and chair of the department at Camosun, Gordon has worked in the field as a Red Seal certified plumber. When Gordon is telling his students about home plumbing projects that have gone wrong, he often relays the story of a homeowner who redid all the plumbing in his house. “He put all the pipes together but forgot the glue, so everything leaked and we had to take it all down and start over,” he said. Homeowners can often tackle projects like basic bathroom renovations that involve switching fixtures, or replacing a kitchen sink, but if a project involves building permits, Gordon recommends hiring a professional.

Even though a homeowner may be bringing a plumber in to help with a project, Gordon said research is still important to having a successful outcome. “There are a lot of plumbers who aren’t quite ready to do the job they are tackling,” said Gordon. “If you’ve done your homework as a homeowner, you know what should happen and if it isn’t happening, ask questions. If you aren’t getting quality answers, you can stop the job.” When hiring a plumber, Gordon said homeowners should ask about credentials. “We’re all licensed trades people but there is an apprenticeship process in place,” he said. “You could hire a person who has the credential and is a journeyperson plumber, or someone who is working toward that as an apprentice, but you want to make sure they are heading toward that certification goal, whether they are heading toward it or have it.”

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OW SH Among the research plumbing instructor John Gordon recommends DIYers do before taking on a job, is to assess your comfort level and determine whether you have the skills to finish the task.

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VICTORIA — Home plumbing projects can be successful if homeowners are willing to ask questions and gather information before taking on a do-it-yourself fix, says one expert. John Gordon, chair of Camosun College’s plumbing and pipe trades in Victoria, B.C., says the first step to tackling plumbing projects at home should be research. Camosun College offers a homeowner plumbing course for the DIY crowd. But for those who don’t have access to such a program, Gordon said there are easy ways to educate yourself before you take on a plumbing venture. “They need to do a bunch of research if they are going to do the job themselves, and even if they are going to hire someone to do it. Homeowners should not just trust what someone else is telling them,” he said. “Research was difficult before the Internet, but it’s really easy now. We even show YouTube videos in class on how to do things like put a kitchen sink in.” While there is a wealth of information on the Internet, Gordon said the best information always comes from manufacturer documentation. “If you are putting in a specific sink or faucet, you should have the literature from the manufacturer and it will have step-by-step instructions,” he said. Research is an important step in the successful completion of a plumbing project, and according to Gordon, it is also a good way first-time home plumbers can assess whether they have the skills to finish the task. “Everyone has a different level of comfort, so what I really think you need to do is do research and understand what needs to be done to finish the project and make a re-

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The first step in plumbing DIY is research and study

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Feng shui Balance inside the home is key CONTINUED FROM F1 Gruss is often sought out by people who are having trouble making their homes feel comfortable or complete. They may recently have separated and are trying to refresh their homes, or they’re moving to new spaces. Because it’s not always practical to move walls or completely overhaul the interior or exterior of a home, feng shui consultants suggest small changes or tweaks to improve the balance and energy flow in the home. Adding water to certain areas, including elements like wood or fire, changing colours or pictures on the wall and adding or removing items in particular rooms are all simple adjustments people can make. Proulx says she’s done consultations for entire homes, single rooms, small offices and gardens. Ramona Visscher sought Proulx’s help in bringing good energy into her new home after a separation and a new job. She was particularly concerned about her finances and her health. So Proulx’s suggestions focused on improvements to areas of the home associated in feng shui with those qualities. Visscher added some water elements, including a fish bowl, and some colour, and saw improvements in her outlook. “You can say it’s coincidental, but I just find it brings peace and harmony into your whole lifestyle,” she says. “Every room in my house I feel is comfortable because of that.” While the changes and remedies can be quite involved, there are some basics that underlie most feng shui practices. Balance and simplicity are key, says Gruss. That means eliminating clutter and keeping

KEEP IT CLEAN AND SIMPLE The following are Feng shui tips from the masters: ■ Get rid of clutter. ■ Keep plants in your home to feel close to nature. ■ Think about balance in furniture placement; a table on each side of the couch or bed, for example. ■ Keep art simple and meaningful. A single beautiful print or painting that enhances the mood you’re trying to create is better than a busy collage. ■ Don’t choose decor that exclusively reflects the tastes of only one person in the home — incorporate the preferences of others, too. ■ A small fountain, or anything that holds water, is a good way to bring positive energy to a room, particularly at the entrance way. ■ Paint the outside of your front door red, or add a wreath with red elements.

furniture and decor uncomplicated. Feng shui can be applied to any and all rooms in the home, but the key areas are the entry way, the bedroom and the kitchen, she adds. Adding a water feature to the entrance, an aquarium or a little fountain, is recommended. It also explains why so many Chinese restaurants have fish tanks by the entrance. The kitchen should contain lots of wood, like the solid wood table and chairs in the eating area of Gruss’s kitchen, for example. Plants and a bowl of fruit are also good additions. Even in moder n kitchens that emphasize metal and darker colours, adding wooden bowls or utensils and pots of fresh herbs contribute elements of wood

■ The physical centre of the home should be a grounded place. Lots of central stairs aren’t ideal; neither is water, like a big aquarium. ■ In a home office, place the desk so you can see the entrance to the room, not so that your back is to the door. ■ Don’t place the head of a bed under a window, where it’s close to lots of energy and distraction. ■ Arrange your bed or decor so that the view is of something pleasing, like a window, or a nice painting ■ Fireplaces, especially wood-burning ones, create warmth and comfort in the home. ■ Don’t put computers and TVs in the bedroom. ■ Minimize chaos and mess in the front entry of your home. — Marta Gold, Postmedia News and earth. The view from Gruss’s kitchen window of the side of her neighbour’s house is mitigated and enhanced by a wooden trellis covered in vines. In a couple’s bedroom, balance is key, says Gruss. A headboard grounds the bed, while pairs of night tables, lamps and space to walk on either side of the bed add balance. Keep computers and TV out of the bedroom to create a sense of calm, she advises. Photos of family and kids should also remain outside the bedroom, while the focus inside should be on the couple and their relationship. For single people looking for a relationship, the same principles apply, she adds.

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Buddha heads decorate the wisdom and spirituality zone, along with earth elements and colours of green and blue.

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Natural inspiration with a touch of bling Cosy and comfortable environment CARISSA HALTON POSTMEDIA NEWS Alison Rayner’s brown labs don’t generally make a lot of noise, so when she heard Kona and Loki’s echoing barks one day early last month, she headed to the entrance of her Strathcona County, Alta., estate home to investigate. On opening the door, she stood star-struck. Where the Donaldson Park Natural Area trails end, just beyond her front drive, there ambled a young male moose. When I drove up to her home recently, the dogs greeted me, too. Despite the 8.4 acres of land Alison and her husband Sean bought three years ago, the dogs stay close to home. “They are city dogs — people dogs!” she says with a laugh. The animals settle in close to us as we drink tea at the kitchen island. This eightfoot square slab of white granite is designed for parties, with a breakfast bar and a second prep sink. Directly in front of me, a cool, blue, glass tiled backsplash embraces a twofoot-square, turquoise tile hand-painted with a vintage damask pattern by Panache Ceramics. From a nearby window in the breakfast nook, aspen and poplar trunks stretch out against a backdrop of white snow and sky. It’s a view as still as a penand-ink drawing. Framed by silk curtains whose iridescent grey-on-grey pattern recalls bark or rain, “this view never gets old,” says Alison. It was for this seasonally changing picture that the Rayners moved from their renovated Mill Woods bungalow in Edmonton to the country. Alison, a freelance writer, and Sean, who owns a sheet metal shop, took their time finding the property. Once they did, they contracted Edmonton-based Sunny Valley home builders, having fallen in love with one of their show homes. The Rayners’ custom,

Alison Rayner loves the juxtaposition of shimmering, shiny accents against natural colours and textures. 6,000-square-foot home would take almost three years to build and require seemingly endless design decisions, during which Alison often found herself at odds with the status quo. “When you go into show homes of this size, you’ll find they’re built for people of a different age group who have different tastes,” says Alison, who is 32. “They like or nate and fancy things. I would think, ‘That’s something my parents would like.’ But I didn’t. We’re really down-to-earth people. I wanted it to be as clean and simple and as natural as possible.” The finished design, with support from designer Yamina Ortynski of Y Design, reflects their tastes. Shakerstyle cabinets, built by Tim Nelson of 1685 Kitchen Design Studio Inc., are featured in the kitchen and the living room’s massive wall of builtins. Natural themes repeat on many of the finishes — trees on the chairs, waves on the living room area rug, butterflies on the wallpaper — and the furniture is also simple

and natural. The entry table is a fusion of iron and roughhewed wood; their bed is walnut, with a custom-made headboard that doubles as a room divider. Alison isn’t afraid to mix and match, though, and sparkling crystal and silver chandeliers create a playful contrast to the wood and stone. The fireplace surround is another perfect marriage of natural and bling, with liveedge cuts of granite adding texture, weight and sparkle. In another study of contrasting styles, their breakfast table is rough barn wood atop high-gloss nickel legs. Heavy wood pillars, stained the same espresso as the cabinets, are a grounding presence between the living room and kitchen. They draw the eye up to the spectacular coffered ceiling, where four halfcircles intersect in a unique pattern. “This is what sold me on this home’s design,” Alison says. In the upstairs bonus room is another stunning ceiling; its coved cap — more inverted halfpipe than frown — frames the best view in

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The bar area in the Rayners’ basement is a cosy place to pull up a stool and chat.

The glittering chandelier and mirror in the formal dining room offer a stunning contrast to the dark, heavy wood of the table and the chairs upholstered in a patterned fabric. the house. Windows here catch the southeast sunshine, pitching it back into the room and down the central staircase. Designed by Specialized Stair & Rail Ltd., this grand stairway has slick wood treads and open risers. “They walked us through the whole process of how they did it,” says Alison.

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“There’s a huge curved wall with clamps and they laminate the wood together with glue and bend it over time. It was an absolutely phenomenal process.” The stairs were transported in parts and the fine sanding, espresso stain and metal rod barristers were all completed in the home.

At the foot of these stairs, I stop to admire a large canvas print of Alison and Sean walking their dogs in springtime. It is one of a four-part series that captures the seasons on their land. In the picture, the couple hold hands and laugh. Clearly, country living suits them well.

What was old is new. Porchscape is a traditionally styled neighbourhood in Harbour Landing. The urban design includes, attractive street-trees, post-top street lights, and sidewalks separated from the street by boulevards. Front porches and pedestrian friendly streetscapes are key traits to this style and are sure to create a warm and safe place to call home.

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LEBANON

Car bomb kills anti-Hezbollah politician Former ambassador to U.S. RYAN LUCAS AND BASSEM MROUE THE ASSOCIATED PRESS BEIRUT — A powerful car bomb killed a prominent Lebanese politician critical of Syria and its ally Hezbollah, hitting his SUV Friday as it drove through a ritzy business district near Beirut’s waterfront, shredding trees and scattering glass and twisted scraps of metal across the pavement. Allies of the slain politician, former finance minister Mohammed Chatah, indirectly blamed the Shiite Hezbollah group for the bombing, raising tensions between Lebanon’s two main political camps at a time when the country’s factions are already deeply at odds

over the civil war in neighbouring Syria. The morning explosion echoed across Beirut and threw a pillar of black smoke above the city’s skyline. The force of the blast punched a nearly 2-metre wide crater in the street, set at least three cars on fire and shattered windows in office buildings and apartment towers up to a block away. The 62-year-old Chatah, who was also a former Lebanese ambassador to the United States and a senior aide to ex-Prime Minister Saad Hariri, was killed along with his driver and four others, the National News Agency reported. The Health Ministry said at least 70 people were wounded. In a statement, the 15 members of the UN Security Council strongly condemned the attack and “reiterated their unequivocal condemnation of any attempt to destabilize Lebanon through political assassinations.” The bombing deepened the sense of malaise in Lebanon,

HUSSEIN MALLA/The Associated Press

A Lebanese Army soldier stands next to a car destroyed in a bombing that killed Mohammed Chatah and five others. which is struggling to cope with the fallout from the civil war in Syria, including the influx of more than 1 million Syrians who have sought refuge from the violence in their homeland. Lebanon also has had only a weak and ineffectual caretaker government since April, with the two main political blocs unable or unwill-

ing to reach a compromise to form a new cabinet. Hariri, a Sunni politician, heads the main, Westernbacked coalition in Lebanon, known as the March 14 alliance. Hezbollah, which enjoys the support of Syria and Iran and commands a militia stronger than the national military, leads those on the

RUSSIA

other side of Lebanon’s political divide. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for Friday’s attack, but the bombing was reminiscent of a string of assassinations of around a dozen members of the anti-Syrian Hariri camp that shook Lebanon between 2004 and 2008. The most dramatic of those was the massive suicide bombing in 2005 in downtown Beirut — some four blocks from the site of the explosion — that killed Hariri’s father, Rafik, also a former prime minister. Hariri’s allies accused Syria of being behind the killings, a claim Damascus denied. The opening session in the Hariri assassination trial is due to be held in less than three weeks in The Hague, Netherlands, where the U.N.backed tribunal investigating his killing is based. Five Hezbollah members have been indicted for their alleged involvement in the assassination. Hezbollah rejects the accusations, and has

refused to hand the men over. Saad Hariri said in a statement that “the ones who are running away from international justice and refusing to appear before the international tribunal” were behind Chatah’s assassination. Hariri said those responsible are “the same ones who are opening the doors of evil and chaos into Lebanon” and “brought regional fires to our country,” in a clear reference to Hezbollah’s armed intervention in support of Syrian President Bashar Assad. Hezbollah strongly denounced Chatah’s assassination, saying it serves “the enemies of Lebanon.” The Shiite group’s overt role in Syria has inflamed Lebanon’s already simmering sectarian tensions. A wave of violence that has washed across the country this year has fuelled predictions that Lebanon, which is still recovering from its own 15-year civil war that ended in 1990, is on the brink of slipping back into full-blown sectarian conflict.

MIDDLE EAST

Iran’s new technology risks nuclear deal GEORGE JAHN THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

IVAN SEKRETAREV/The Associated Press

Nadezhda Tolokonnikova, right, and Maria Alekhina of Russian punk band Pussy Riot talk to the media Friday in their first news conference since being freed on Monday. Both are supporters of Michael Khodorkovsky, freed by Vladimir Putin after a 10-year jail term, Khodorkovsky has ruled out a career in politics or challenging Putin directly.

‘Paranoid’ Putin should go, freed protest rockers say ROLAND OLIPHANT LONDON DAILY TELEGRAPH Russia’s defiant Pussy Riot protesters painted a picture Friday of an ideal future in which Mikhail Khodorkovsky would replace a “paranoid” Vladimir Putin as their country’s president. In their first news conference since being freed on Monday, Nadezhda Tolokonnikova and Maria Alyokhina said they would dedicate themselves to fighting for prison refor m in Russia rather than continue the provocative campaign of antigovernment modern art performances for which they were jailed last year. But they said that the new direction did not represent a softening of their views on Vladimir Putin’s regime, insisting that “in Russia, hu-

man rights activity is political activity.” Tolokonnikova, 24, said their attitude toward Putin had not changed. “We’d like to do what we said in our last action — we’d like him to go away,” she said, referring to the “punk prayer” in Moscow’s Christ the Saviour Cathedral, in which they called on the Virgin Mary to evict Putin from office. It was this performance that led to them being prosecuted for hooliganism aggravated by religious hatred, in a decision that many believed was supported by the hierarchy of Russia’s Orthodox Church. “Vladimir Putin is a very closed, opaque chekist,” said Tolokonnikova, using the Russian slang for a secret policeman. “He is very much afraid. He builds walls around him that block out

reality. “Many of the things he said about Pussy Riot were so far from the truth, but it was clear he really believed them. “I think he believes that Wester n countries are a threat, that it’s a big bad world out there where houses walk on chicken legs and there is a global Masonic conspiracy. I don’t want to live in this terrifying fairy tale.” Asked who she would rather replace the president, Tolokonnikova said: “I’d like to offer Mikhail Borisovich (Khodorkovsky) the job.” Alyokhina, 25, added: “Me too.” Khodorkovsky, the former oil tycoon long considered Russia’s most famous prisoner and an enemy of Putin’s, was unexpectedly pardoned by the president a week ago.

He is currently in Berlin, where he has ruled out a career in politics or challenging Putin directly. However, he has expressed determination to work to help other political prisoners, and he and Pussy Riot have exchanged open letters of support since their release. Alyokhina and Tolokonnikova denied that Khodorkovsky, who is rumoured to have money squirrelled away in foreign bank accounts, would be funding their campaign for prison reform. “When we suggested working together it was not about financing,” Tolokonnikova said. “Mr. Khodorkovsky is important for us as a very strong, a very resistant person. He is an incredible person who endured a much longer prison term than we did.”

VIENNA, Austria — Iran is taking steps to improve its ability to speed up uranium enrichment, a move that could delay implementation of a nuclear deal with six world powers because Tehran’s moves are opposed by the United States and its allies. Iran’s nuclear chief, Ali Akbar Salehi, said late Thursday that his country is building a new generation of centrifuges for uranium enrichment but they need further tests before they can be mass produced. His comments appeared aimed at countering criticism from Iranian hardliners by showing their country’s nuclear program is moving ahead and hasn’t been halted by the accord. But two officials familiar with Iran’s nuclear activities said Tehran has gone even further by interpreting a provision of the interim Geneva nuclear deal in a way rejected by many, if not all, of the six powers that sealed the Geneva deal with Iran. In interviews Friday, they said that Iranian technical experts told counterparts from the six powers

last week that some of the cutting-edge machines have been installed at a research tract of one of Iran’s enriching sites. They gave no numbers. Iran argued it had a right to do so under the research and development provisions of the Nov. 24 Geneva accord, said the officials, who represent countries that are members of the Vienna-based UN nuclear agency monitoring Tehran’s atomic activities. They spoke on condition of anonymity. Iran’s approach is being hotly disputed by the United States and representatives of the rest of the six powers — Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany — said the officials. They said they have argued that installing any centrifuge that increases overall numbers, particularly a new model, violates Tehran’s commitment to freeze the amount and type of enriching machines at Nov. 24 levels. In commitments under the Geneva accord, Iran agreed to freeze the number of centrifuges enriching uranium for six months and only to produce models now installed or in operation, so it can exchange them piece by piece for any damaged ones.

MAJID ASGARIPOUR/The Associated Press file photo

Iran’s says it is building a new generation of centrifuges for uranium enrichment, raising concerns for the U.S.

EGYPT

Five killed as police battle pro-Morsi protesters MAGGIE MICHAEL THE ASSOCIATED PRESS CAIRO, Egypt — With water cannons and tear gas, Egyptian riot police battled with hundreds of stone-throwing supporters of ousted expresident Mohammed Morsi in clashes across the country on Friday that left five dead, according to officials. Friday is the day of the week in Egypt in which pro-

tests are typically at their largest. The day’s demonstrations follow an announcement by the authorities that they will use Brotherhood’s new designation as a terrorist organization to levy harsh prison sentence on protesters, and poses the first test of whether that will deter them. Authorities, meanwhile, unveiled a new tactic to contain protests called by Mor-

si’s Muslim Brotherhood group and its allies. In at least seven southern provinces, security and local officials said that the authorities turned to armed civilians from anti-Islamist and pro-government families to provide support to security forces, help guard police stations and churches and confront pro-Morsi rallies. One high-ranking Interior Ministry official said that this is part of a bigger deal

between the security apparatus and the big clans in the south, the most conservative part of Egypt, which has a strong tradition both of inter-family feuding and of Islamist militancy. Families would hand over heavy weapons to the government but would be allowed to carry lighter ones when facing off with Islamists, and in return authorities would support candidates from those families in upcoming

parliamentary elections. The tactic is not new in Egypt. In the 1990s, during the Islamic insurgency against ousted president Hosni Mubarak, the government formed so-called “popular committees” in which relatives of ruling party members, parliamentarians and other prominent government allies helped expel militants from towns and cities. In at least two incidents on

Friday in the southern provinces of Assiut and Qena, witnesses said, two small rallies quickly dispersed after pro-government civilians mounting pickup trucks fired their machine-guns, into the air driving protesters away. In Cairo, riot police chased stone-throwing and Molotovhurling student protesters chanting against the military and the police at the Islamic Al-Azhar University.

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