SPOTLIGHT
FIRESIDE PROPERTY GROUP LTD. – Castleview Park:
Located in a quiet north-east residential area, close to schools, the McKnight LRT station, grocery stores, drugstore, doctors’ offices, restaurants and banks.
MAPS ................... PAGE 5
TIPS Budget-friendly
upgrades.................. PAGE 10
OUTDOORS
Fuss-free camping ....... PAGE 18
MOVERS
Moving with dogs ........ PAGE 22
RECIPE Edamame and avocado spread ..... PAGE 24
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Carolyn Porteous carolyn@mediaclassified.ca
780.984.4902
GROUP SALES MANAGER
Randi Segal randi.segal@mediaclassified.ca
MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES & SERVICE
Marilyn Watling marilyn@mediaclassified.ca
PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER
Leo Racioppo leo@mediaclassified.ca
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
John Racioppo john@mediaclassified.ca
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Alicesa Pullan
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Johannah Lorenzo
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4 ways to save money on household expenses
With inflation and high interest rates, most of us are feeling a little short of cash these days. Here are four tips for cutting back on your expenses.
minimize food waste
Over the past couple of years, it seems like the price of everything at the grocery store has gone up. So, it’s important that you don’t waste the food you buy.
Try “upcycling” leftovers: use last night’s chicken in a sandwich for lunch or use the leftover veggies as part of a salad. Freeze fresh produce before it spoils. If extra bananas are starting to turn brown, for example,
toss them in the freezer and use them later in smoothies.
Also, be aware that “best before” dates are not the same as expiry dates. They simply indicate peak freshness. Unopened and properly stored foods
can be safely consumed after the best before date has passed.
turn down the power
There are a number of little steps you can take to reduce daily energy use. Most appliances consume “phantom power” even when they’re not in use. So, unplug things like your toaster, DVD player and gaming console when not in use. And, when the weather’s nice, skip the dryer and hang your clothes on a line instead.
invest in efficiency
Everyone knows the phrase, “you have to spend money to make money.” Well, if you’re investing in a home reno or replacing an aging appliance, it’s worth investing in energy efficient options. Adding extra insulation, for example, will help reduce your heating and cooling costs throughout the year. A programmable thermostat allows you to turn down the heating or cooling while the house is empty, and then set it to return to a comfortable level before you return. And choosing the most efficient appliances on the mar-
ket will reduce energy consumption, saving you money in the long-term.
opt out of the RRO
The regulated rate option, or RRO, is the default energy rate option for Albertans. The rate is approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission at the beginning of every month and can spike significantly based on market conditions. If you’re on the default electricity rate these days, you might have noticed you’re paying more than you used to. . But when you opt out, you can get a fixed rate from a provider like ATCOenergy. Then you’ll know precisely what rate you’ll pay every month and won’t have to worry about energy price spikes.
Learn more about your energy options at energy.atco.com. ■
Over the past couple of years, it seems like the price of everything at the grocery store has gone up.
Fireside Property Group
If you are looking for an experienced property management company that exceeds your expectations in Calgary, Alberta –look no further than Fireside Property Group. With a focus on providing superior, client-focused management services and a commitment to foster win/ win relationships between property owners and their residents, Fireside Property Group embraces and deploys the best practices and highest business standards in the property management industry.
Fireside Property Group has rentals available that offer the perfect combination of accessibility and convenience, in conjunction with local amenities and services that you depend on. As a leader in the property management industry in Calgary, they create an unparalleled renting experience that places a focus on the needs of their tenants and creates a community that provides an excellent experience. Although headquartered in Calgary, Alberta – Fireside Property Group also has available rentals in Edmonton and Sudbury, Ontario.
The properties available to rent under their management team offer nothing but quality residential accommodations and a rental price point you will love. Well maintained and regularly updated, residents can be confident that will they will be renting with a company that knows and understands what they want and need most out of a rental property.
As a licensed Real Estate Broker, a former president of the Calgary Residential Rental Association, and with over 20 years of experience, Fireside Property Group is lead by the president, Keith McMullen, BA. President McMullen has created a company that identifies the needs of renters
and provides an exception high-quality rental experience.
President McMullen was formerly responsible for managing Prestigious Properties growing portfolio of multifamily assets in Western Canada. Before working at Prestigious Properties, Mr McMullen worked and managed for Gateway Property Management, Canada’s largest property management firm. As well as TransGlobe, Canada’s 3rd largest apartment building owner, and Realstar Management Limited, President McMullen carries an impressive level of understanding and knowledge surrounding the property management industry.
Renting an apartment is not just about a place to live – it is about your lifestyle. When you rent from Fireside Property Group in Calgary, you can feel confident that you have picked a company that keeps your needs in mind. With a focus on responsibility and reliability, their business is not just about providing apartments for rent – it is about the people who live in them and providing them with a premium rental experience unlike any other.
Are you on the hunt for your next perfect rental apartment? Choose a property management company that has built their business with you in mind – pick Fireside Property Group. ■
5 budget-friendly tips
to upgrade your home
Upgrading your home to be energy-efficient and eco-friendly doesn’t mean you have to compromise your budget. With a little creativity and a green mindset, you can upgrade your space in ways that are good for both the environment and your wallet.
optimize your lighting
Ditch the old incandescent bulbs and try some energy-efficient LED lights. LED lights are not only brighter, but they also last longer, making them a cost-effective lighting solution. Embrace natural light by opening up your curtains or blinds during the day to give your space a sunny and inviting ambiance.
upcycle and recycle
Instead of buying new furniture or décor, explore the world of upcycling and repurposing. Embrace DIY projects by giving life to old furniture. You can transform out-dated and worn-out furniture with a refinish or repaint. Get creative and repurpose everyday objects into unique and functional pieces. Look for inspiration online and in second-hand stores for affordable and sustainable ways to refresh your home’s style.
DIY composting
You can start your own composting system to reduce food waste, and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Try setting up a compost bin in your backyard, or use indoor composting methods. By composting, you can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and produce valuable compost that enriches soil, which is great for your plants or your garden.
Use eco-friendly cleaning products Make the switch to eco-friendly cleaning products to reduce the use of harmful chemicals in your home, and minimize their impact on the environment. You can look for non-toxic cleaning supplies or biodegradable solutions that don’t contain harsh chemicals like chlorine and phosphates. Did you know you can also make your own cleaning solutions? Use ingredients like vinegar and baking soda, or even lemon juice. These options are not only safer for you, but they are safer for the environment.
make use of benefits and credits
Take advantage of government programs like the Climate Action Incentive payment (CAIP).
This program provides families and individuals with quarterly payments to offset the cost of the federal government’s pollution pricing. With the extra little cash in your wallet, you can use this to reduce your carbon footprint and implement more eco-friendly upgrades. You can make progress in upgrading your home on a budget using these government pay -
ments, and contribute to a greener future.
You may be eligible for the CAIP if you live in a province with federal pollution pricing: Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Those last three provinces are new to the program this summer, so residents there will be getting three payments this
year. Residents of New Brunswick will follow suit and receive their first payment in October 2023. The exact amount of the quarterly payments varies by region – you’ll get more if you live outside a major urban centre. You don’t need to apply; you just need to file your taxes every year.
Find more information about how this benefit works at canada.ca/caipayment. ■
With a little creativity and a green mindset, you can upgrade your space in ways that are good for both the environment and your wallet.
how you can do your part to fight climate change
Arecent study found that 82 per cent of Canadians are concerned about how climate change will impact future generations. If you’re among that dominant group, here are four ways you can help fight against climate change.
book a staycation
Planning a holiday at or close to home has multiple benefits. For one, you don’t have to break the bank with pricey airline tickets or multiple tanks of gas for an epic road trip. Cutting out those items also reduces the carbon footprint of your vacation.
Visiting nearby attractions helps you better connect with your community and keeps your hard-earned money circulating in the local economy.
If you do plan to go abroad, consider adding carbon offsets to the budget to help reduce your impact.
apply the three Rs to your wardrobe
Globally, “fast fashion” is a major contributor to climate change and it also fills up landfills. Rather than buying cheap clothing that will fall apart after a few washings, invest in better-quality garments that will last for years to come.
Another option is to shop at thrift or consignment stores rather than buying new. You’ll save some money, and someone else’s previously loved clothing will get a new lease on life.
Finally, you can repurpose old clothing into new with some adornments or strategic snips with the scissors. Are we ready for the return of the iconic Daisy Duke jean shorts?
eat smart
Much like a staycation, buying your food from local providers has multiple benefits, including reducing the carbon footprint required to get the food to your table and supporting nearby producers.
Wherever you source your food from, take steps to not waste it. Planning a menu ahead of time means you can use up leftovers and items you already have in the fridge or pantry before they go bad.
You can save yourself time and money by buying food in bulk and making large batches of your family’s favourite dishes. Reheat some of the leftovers for an easy meal the next day and freeze the rest in single-serve containers for healthy, homecooked lunches later on.
conserve energy at home
Reducing energy consumption at home not only helps the planet; it also helps your wallet. One way
to reduce your energy use is by using Wi-Fi enabled switches such as Square D. By pairing your switches and plugs with an energy monitoring system like Wiser Energy, you can use your phone to control light switches for intelligent home energy management.
Find more tips and tools you can use to reduce your energy consumption at se.com/en/ca.■ — News Canada
Globally, “fast fashion” is a major contributor to climate change and it also fills up landfills
fuss-free ways to try camping
Camping is part of Canadian culture, right up there with plaid shirts and maple syrup. But if you haven’t tried it before, that first trip can be a bit daunting. Even visiting an outdoor outfitting store can be intimidating – with so many options for tents, sleeping bags, cookstoves and endless other gadgets, where does a new camper even begin?
First, it’s important to know that you don’t have to make a big investment in gear to give camping a try. One of the great outcomes of a recent camping boom is that campgrounds have recognized there are many types of campers and they have adjusted offerings to provide many different types of camping experiences.
A great way to get started without buying a ton of gear is to look for campgrounds that offer cabins, yurts or other tent-alternatives. There’s a lot of variety out there – some include all the amenities of home, while for others, you might still need to pack a few things (sheets, towels, etc.). It’s a good idea to check with the campground to confirm what’s provided and what you’re expected to bring.
Don’t forget there are many more options out there beyond national and provincial parks. Private campgrounds often get overlooked and may have availability for last-minute stays and short-term stays during weekdays. Parkbridge is one campground operator that has locations across Canada, including ready-to-
camp cabins and yurts at many of its locations.
RV camping has also seen a huge increase in popularity since the start of the pandemic. But, again, there are great ways to try before you buy. Several online services now make it easy to rent a trailer or RV. You can often have them delivered right to your campsite, so you don’t even have to worry about towing (or parking) a trailer. Usually, a rental trailer will also come packed with much of what you need for a great getaway.
Whatever you’re looking for –from ultra-luxe glamping to a rustic retreat – affordable options are out there. There’s never been a better time to give this great Canadian pastime a try. ■
moving with dogs
BY CHUCK RESNICKMoving can be one of the most stressful events in life, so why should that be any different for your dog?
Here are 10 tips on how to prepare your dog:
10. never place them in moving trucks
Under no circumstances should you place your dog in the back of a moving truck. Even safely tucked in a well-ventilated pet travel carrier, the truck is almost always hot (even in winter) and of course, the doors are closed.
9. make a doggy date
Your dog will most likely want to play with the movers and probably everyone else, so take him or her to a kennel, dog spa or have a friend or relative dog sit at their home, before the movers arrive. Those will be the best places for your furry friend; then you can devote your total attention to your moving activities.
8. give them space
If your dog must be with you during your move, keep your loved one outside or out of the movers’ way.
Dogs crave the attention of strangers and can create obstacles which will impede the move.
7. pack lots of treats
Have dog treats on hand for move day to keep him or her quiet. It’s also good way to get your dog to listen and obey. And, it’s a great idea to have water and nutritious human treats for your movers as well.
6. pack a separate box of your pet’s toys
Once at your new home, your dog may be frightened of the new surroundings, so, having familiar playthings ready will reduce stress levels.
5. let your movers know to expect fido
If your dog will be around during the move, let your movers know ahead of time. You’d be surprised how many men are afraid of dogs. Whether large or small animals, it doesn’t matter. Also, there are mov ers that are allergic to dogs.
4. don’t ignore them
After the move you will be busy unpacking, so don’t ignore your dog. Take regular and long walks, if you can, to explore your new neighbour hood together or even short breaks from unpacking, to play. Time to gether will help your dog be better behaved during this change in every one’s environment.
3. keep them hydrated
Don’t forget that your dog will be excited on move day and will need plenty of water. Exercise is the best
way to get your dog ready, more relaxed and calm for when the movers arrive. Depending on your dog’s age and size, draining his or her energy level may not be easy, so plan frequent walks. I know that a 30-minute walk barely makes a dent in our dog’s energy level.
2. use “mess” breaks
Make sure you let your pet out for “mess” breaks. Nothing will ruin your moving day experience more than a ‘surprise’ from your dog inside your new abode. Keep him or her on your property to avoid making a bad first impression on your neighbours.
1. have fun
Moving into new digs is a time to celebrate. Have the movers take a pictur of you, your family and your dog in your new home. What a perfect reminder of the day you just shared. ■
‘If your dog will be around during the move, let your movers know ahead of time. You’d be surprised how many men are afraid of dogs.’
add
anti-inflammatory superfoods to your diet
Edamame beans and avocados have valuable anti-inflammatory properties that could help manage the symptoms of arthritis. Enjoy this protein-powered recipe from the dietitians at the Arthritis Society. It’ll provide a great boost of energy when spread on whole-grain toast.
Find more arthritis-friendly recipes at arthritis.ca. ■
— News Canada
Edamame and Avocado Spread
Prep time: 15 minutes Total time: 10 min Serves:2
Ingredients:
• ¼ cup cooked edamame beans
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp tahini paste
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tsp minced garlic
Directions:
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• ½ avocado
• 1 green onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
1. Cook edamame beans as per package instructions. If using whole edamame pods, cook for 5 minutes in salted boiling water then remove beans from pods once cooled.
2. In a food processor, mix edamame, avocado, tahini, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, green onions, salt and pepper until smooth.
Tips:
3. Divide spread between two slices of whole-grain toast.
• If you’re unable to find edamame in your area, you can use peas as a replacement.
• Try pan-frying the edamame beans with seasoning, instead of boiling them.
• Place a sunny-side up egg cooked in olive oil on top of the toast for a balanced breakfast or light lunch.
Nutritional information (per serving): Calories: 200; protein 5g; total fat 19g; satu- rated fat 3g; monounsaturated fat 9; carbohydrates 6g; fibre 1g; sodium 22mg.
how to stay safe in the heat this summer
When the warm weather arrives, many of us can’t wait to get out and have fun in the sun. But as good as the sun’s rays feel on our face, too much sun – and time in the heat – can lead to some dangers to your health.
heat-related ailments
The most serious heat-related condition is heat stroke. This is when your body loses control over temperature regulation. Your body stops being able to sweat and its temperature rises to life-threatening levels. You can also experience muscle spasms, appear disoriented and have seizures.
If you suspect someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately
and try to cool them off by helping them move out of the heat immediately, placing wet towels or ice packs on their neck, and fanning their skin. If they are responsive, provide them with hydrating liquids to drink. If they become unresponsive, perform CPR until paramedics arrive.
Other heat-related illnesses include heat rash and heat edema. Heat rash presents as itchy red spots on your skin. Wear moisturewicking clothes to help prevent it, and shower to ease the itch. Heat edema is the swelling of your hands or feet from standing in the heat for long periods of time. Find a cool place where you can rest with your legs elevated.
play safe
As many of us tend to participate in more outdoor activities during the warmer months, it is important to protect yourself by always using or wearing the safety equipment recommended for the sport or activity you’re participating in – even in the heat.
Take proper advantage of breaks, half-time or intermission, and remove your equipment while you rest. Take extra breaks when you need to. To cope with extreme heat, many soccer leagues have adopted water breaks midway through each half.
To protect your muscles from injury, stretch before and after you participate. And make sure you have plenty of water or sports
If you suspect someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and try to cool them off by helping them move out of the heat immediately, placing wet towels or ice packs on their neck, and fanning their skin.
drinks on hand to keep you hydrated while you’re active.
seek shelter from the sun
As much as we love being out in the sun, you can have too much of a good thing. Sunburn can not only lead to painful blisters and an annoying itch while your skin heals, frequent burns can also cause premature aging of your skin and increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
If you’re going to be in the sun, apply sunscreen wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes. If you’re doing a physical activity where you’re sweating – or swimming – reapply sunblock regularly. If you feel
weak or nauseous, find a cool place where you can rest and drink non-caffeinated, hydrating drinks.
Find more information on staying safe in the sun at canada.ca/ health. ■
— News Canada
Sunburn can not only lead to painful blisters and an annoying itch while your skin heals, frequent burns can also cause premature aging of your skin and increase your risk of developing skin cancer.