THE OFFICIAL COMMUNITY LEAGUE NEWSPAPER: BRITANNIA-YOUNGSTOWN, CANORA, GLENWOOD, HIGH PARK, MAYFIELD & WEST JASPER / SHERWOOD ALSO SERVING THE STONY PLAIN ROAD AND AREA BUSINESS REVITALIZATION ZONE
APRIL 2009 VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 3 CIRCULATION 16,000
Restaurants & Revitalization: You Be the Judge The following restaurants qualify for this contest: Stony Plain Road Restaurant Review Contest Stony Plain Road and Area is lined with dozens of restaurants to suit everyone’s taste and budget. The Stony Plain Road and Area Business Association and the SPURR would love to hear about your dining experiences in the area. Enjoy an evening out with your friends, family and/or loved ones and tell us about your experience. Each month we will choose a review to publish. If we choose your review you will win a $50 gift certificate towards your next dinning experience and we will print your review in the next edition of SPURR! Reviews should be around 300 words and e-mailed in Word (.doc) or Rich Text (.rtf) to: editor@thespurr.ca. Winning entries will be based on the quality of writing and may be edited for content and length upon publication.
CONTENT
A & W • 220 Mayfield Common NW Albert’s Family Restaurant • 15540 Stony Plain Road NW Aramark Canada Ltd. • 10045 - 156 Street NW Astros Restaurant Ltd • 10038 - 167 Street NW Badass Jack’s Subs & Wraps • 10005 170 Street NW Ban Thai • 15726 - 100 Avenue NW Boston Pizza • 180 Mayfield Common NW Brado’s Pizza • 15648 Stony Plain Road NW Bucas & Pastas • 16516 - 100 Avenue NW Burger Baron • 10056 - 156 Street NW Castle Pita Bakery • 10048 - 158 Street NW Chicago Deep Dish Pizza • 16203 Stony Plain Road NW Chili’s Texas Grill • 17020 - 100 Avenue NW Chin Kee Restaurant • 15545 Stony Plain Road NW Chinese Dumpling House • 15525 Stony Plain Road NW Continental Inn • 16625 Stony Plain Road Dairy Queen • 10018 - 156 Street NW Dan Shing Restaurant • 15912 Stony Plain Road NW Doc’s Restaurant & Lounge • 15203 Stony Plain Road NW Earl’s Restaurants Ltd • 9961 - 170 Street NW Felicitea • 15047 Stony Plain Road NW Hap’s Hungry House • 16060 Stony Plain Road NW Hoang Long Family Restaurant Ltd. • 10041 170 Street NW Hollywood Pizza & Donair • 10012 156 Street Il Forno Ltd. • 14981 Stony Plain Road NW Jasper Place Restaurant • 15326 Stony Plain Road NW Joey’s Grill & Lounge • 130 Mayfield Common L.A. Deli Sub & Salad • 15043 Stony Plain Road NW La Shish • 224 Mayfield Common Little Caesars Pizza • 15045 Stony Plain Road NW McDonalds • 16725 Stony Plain Road NW Miso Japanese Cuisine • 14917 Stony Plain Road NW Moon Palace Restaurant • 15401 Stony Plain Road NW
EDITORIAL S T O N Y P L A I N R O A D U P D AT E J A S P E R P L A C E U P D AT E
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DIRTY GARDENER COMMUNITY NEWS SPRING CLEANING
Mr Donair • 16209 Stony Plain Road NW Oodle Noodle Box • 10009 170 Street OPA Souvalaki • 17008 100 Avenue Parin Taco Time • 228 Mayfield Common NW Pho Binh Vietnamese Restaurant • 15055 Stony Plain Road NW Pita Pit • 10015 - 170 Street NW Pizza 73 • 14728 Stony Plain Road NW Q-Club • 15121 Stony Plain Road NW Queen Donair Subs & Burgers • 10068 - 156 Street NW Red Lobster # 8166 • 10111 - 171 Street NW Rendezvous Pub 49 • 10108 - 149 Street NW Ricky’s All Day Grill • 9917 170 Street Roman’s Family Restaurant • 15815 Stony Plain Road NW Rose Garden Chinese Restaurant • 16520 - 100 Avenue NW Royal Fork Buffet Restaurant Corporation • 15061 Stony Plain Road NW Sankyu Modern Japanese Cuisine Ltd. • 15041 Stony Plain Road NW Second Cup • 222 Mayfield Common NW Singapore Baba Restaurant Ltd. • 10121 - 151 Street NW Sit & Chat • 10049 - 156 Street NW Smokey Joe’s Hickory Smoke House (2002) Inc. • 15135 Stony Plain Road NW Starbucks Coffee Company • #4286 14957 Stony Plain Road NW Subway • 15053 Stony Plain Road NW Subway Sandwiches & Salads/Subway • # 3894 10066 - 163 Street NW Taco Bell • 10041 - 171 Street NW Tasty Tomato Italian Eatery Inc • 14233 Stony Plain Road NW Tb’s Pub • 16212 Stony Plain Road NW The Cheesecake Cafe • 17011 - 100 Avenue NW The Olive Garden • # 4342 10121 - 171 Street NW Tim Horton Donuts • 10070 - 163 Street NW Tim Horton Donuts • 10221 - 170 Street NW Tokyo Express • 9951 170 Street NW Tropica • 14921 Stony Plain Road NW
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T H E D R A G O N F LY D E N POETRY CONTEST WINNER OPEN HOUSE
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EDITORIAL
SPURR • APRIL 2009 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 3
Community In Bloom
Ph: (780) 757-0993 | www.thespurr.ca
doubt, many of the homeowners in the area are itching to start planting after our long, cold winter.
Editor: Paula E. Kirman editor@thespurr.ca Culture: Adele Knowler culture@thespurr.ca Gardening: Michele Hebert gardening@thespurr.ca Community Info: Marian Bruin community@thespurr.ca Business Info: Diane Kereluk business@thespurr.ca Advertising: Debbie Olsen debbie@thespurr.ca Jim Wooley ads@thespurr.ca Publisher:
PAULA E. KIRMAN
It is my privilege this month to introduce myself as the new Editor of The SPURR. Having lived in the west end not far from Stony Plain Road most of my life, I have watched the area grow and change over time. I am excited and encouraged to see how revitalization will develop and improve Stony Plain Road and its surrounding neighbourhoods.
Pie Communications Inc. 544, 12222 137 Avenue Edmonton, AB, T5L 4X5 Ph: (780) 757-0993 Fax: (780) 401-3438 www.piecommunications.com
This month’s theme is “Community In Bloom.” This can be taken three ways. First of all, the imagery of spring and its associated bursts of life of flowers and gardens comes to mind. Without a
What is SPURR The Stony Plain (road and area) Urban Revitalization Report is a community based newspaper whose mission it is to serve the west-end communities of BritanniaYoungstown, Canora, Glenwood, High Park, Mayfield, & West Jasper / Sherwood along with the Members of the Stony Plain Road and Area Business Association. SPURR is a joint initiative for Community & Business Interests of Edmonton’s westend lead by: City of Edmonton Community Services, Neighbourhood Revitalization Project and the Stony Plain Road and Area Business Revitalization Zone.
Community Services Department P.O. Box 2359, Edmonton, AB, T5J 2R7 Ph: (780) 944-5417 marian.bruin@edmonton.ca Diane Kereluk, Stony Plain Road and Area Business Association 10043 151 Street. Edmonton, AB, T5P 4Z7 Ph: (780) 477-5169 info@stonyplainroadbrz.ca
When visiting or calling one of our advertisers please make sure to tell them you saw them in the SPURR – thank you.
• Scraper • Rags • Spray bottle
DIANE KERELUK (780) 477-5169
Help to Combat Graffiti Addressing the issue of graffiti is a shared responsibility in a community. The Graffiti Management Program, City of Edmonton, businesses, residents, and community groups all have a part to play. The best way to stop graffiti from spreading is to remove it as soon as it appears. To help assist the combat against graffiti Capital City Clean Up has provided the Stony Plain Road and Area Business Associations with graffiti kits. To pick up your free kit, the following is required:
THE SPURR NEEDS YOU! Reader response has been overwhelmingly positive about articles written by long time residents. If you have a story or a photo depicting how life is, was or should be in Edmonton’s west end we would love to hear
• Completed and signed form • Picture of graffiti • Police file number – all graffiti offences are encouraged to be report to the EPS.
from you. Please forward your stories to the publishers address above, thank you.
FREE EVENT CALENDAR The SPURR will begin publishing area events and activities in a monthly calendar in print and online. Please send us your date sensitive event information, we would love to include what we can and it’s FREE.
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Third, the concept of revitalization is that of growth and development. Revitalization efforts will cause Stony Plain Road to blossom and “bloom” over time. As aesthetic and social issues are dealt with, the face of the area will change and become one of Edmonton’s brightest spots. We are already seeing the results of sowing the seeds of
There are many other ways in which the communities that surround Stony Plain Road can bloom. Perhaps a community garden is in order, where people from all over the area can come together to grow not just flowers, but produce that can be shared. Piggybacking on the popularity of Storefront Cinema Night, maybe there are other festivals and events that could be held here. The landscape can continue to be beautified with public art. What are some of your ideas on how to make your community bloom? Send me a note at: editor@thespurr.ca.
UPDATE FROM STONY PLAIN ROAD AND AREA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
For More Information Please Contact: Marian Bruin, City of Edmonton
Second, a community initiative that very literally deals with our theme this month is one that will see flower boxes strategically placed throughout the area. If successful, this project will vastly improve the look of the streets, adding life and colour to a mostly urban pavementdominated place.
revitalization through November’s Storefront Cinema Night, and the growing popularity of The Haven as a musical performance venue.
Graffiti kit includes (value $60): • Coupon for 25% off paint at any • Rona • Paint tray • Paint tray liner • Paint brush • Roller • Chemical wipes – designed to remove graffiti off smooth surfaces
The kits are available to all residents and businesses by calling (780) 477-5169 to arrange pick up at the Stony Plain Road and Area Business Association location: 10043 151 Street. Restaurant Review Contest The Stony Plain Road and Area Business Association is sponsoring a monthly contest to promote local eateries in the area. Please see the information in this edition. If you are are member and we missed listing your restaurant please let us know. FREE… FREE… FREE…FREE… Another opportunity to promote your business The Stony Plain Road and Area Business Association is working with Chris Streve of Ishoploccally.org on an opportunity to promote businesses online to encourage surrounding communities to shop locally. Chris will be visiting all the businesses within the BRZ and offering a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to help local small and medium sized businesses like yours to leverage the power of the Internet and drive online and in-store sales. The placement of information on your business on the Ishoplocally.org website will be absolutely free. For more information please e-mail: staff@ishoplocally.org or call (780) 707-6892.
A plant says a thousand words! Attention Stony Plain Road and Area Business Members: Provide us with a hanging planter or a planter barrel outside your building and we will do the rest. We will plant, water and maintain the flowers. This year we are piloting a new approach to creating beauty and character for the area. Ten major intersections have been identified, and we hope to create a whole new look with an arrangement of beautiful flowers. By having businesses participate we can create a flow of beautiful flowers throughout the business area, which will give us an exclusive, unified look. If everyone contributes a little we can do a lot! For more information please call: (780) 477-5169 or e-mail: stonyplainbrz@telus.net.
S P U R R APRIL 2009
UPDATE FROM JASPER PLACE R E V I TA L I Z AT I O N S T R AT E G Y
MARIAN BRUIN (780) 944-5417
Neighbourhood Revitalization Matching Grant Fund
Volunteers Needed to Join a Working Group
Projects must be based in and benefit the communities of Britannia/Youngstown, Canora, Glenwood, and West Jasper Place.
Connecting Our CommunityThis group is working on increasing information and awareness on programs and services in the area as well as working on getting to know your neighbours and businesses through community events and celebrations. Next Meeting: The Second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Boys and Girls club (16030-104 avenue).
Who can apply? Businesses, Not-for-Profits, Schools, Associations, and Ad Hoc Community Groups. Funds are available on a matching basis for projects that address a specific community need and that build and benefit the community. So start thinking today of projects that will foster a sense of community, increase safety, and create beautification and cleanliness in the neighbourhood! Applications are available now!
Building Our Community: This group would work on business, community and park clean ups and beautification as well as improving the community and business area by addressing traffic safety concerns and physical changes to the area. We are also working on a new zoning plan for the Stony Plain Road area (149 street to 170
street) and 100 Avenue to 102 Avenue Next Meeting : the 3rd Wednesday of the month, 6 p.m. at the BRZ office 10043-151 street. Feeling Safe in Our Community: This group would work with Police, the business association and your neighbours to create safer streets, parks and neighbourhoods! Next Meeting: The second Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at 10030- 167 street. You can get involved with issues that concern you in your community. Do you have any suggestions or comments? Call Marian at (780) 944-5417.
THE DIRTY GARDENER
MICHELE HEBERT
Think Vertical A few months back, one of my readers requested advice for gardeners living in an apartment, townhouse, or condo. “Think vertical” is my theme this month, with the view to gardening in pots on a balcony or patio. Vertical gardening adds architectural interest, saves space, adds shade and privacy, and prevents stooping to save your back and
knees (especially important at my age). A few years back, I lost my garden plot to build a new garage that spring. I potted up my veggies in large containers on my deck, and they did great. Many veggies can be grown in pots with a trellis for support including tomatoes, cucumbers, pole beans, and peas. Be sure the trellis can support the weight of the vines and veggies, and is secured in the pot so it won’t blow over in the wind. Compliment your veggies in the pot by edging with lobelia or alyssum, or other “pot stuffers.” Grow “outside the box.” A traditional strawberry pot, usually terra cotta, is great for growing herbs in a small space. There is nothing like fresh chives on potatoes in
the summer, or fresh dill on barbecued salmon, especially when it comes from your own garden. Some annual vines that do great in containers on a trellis include nasturtiums, Black-Eyed Susan, sweet peas, and (my favourite) Canary vine. Several annual grasses for containers are millet, feather reed grass, and purple fountain grass. Stroll through your favourite garden centre for more ideas. A wide range of products to facilitate container gardening are available, such as pots with self-watering features, attached trellises, and flat backs to place against a wall. First and foremost is using a big enough container and the right soil. Garden dirt just won’t do
WEST 2000
because of weed seeds, insects, and other contaminants. A good soil mix with compost and moisture-retaining granules, and slowrelease fertilizer is best. Decrease the weight of the pot (depending on the size) by filling the bottom of the pot by one-third with pinecones or some other such lightweight product. Line the bottom of the container with coffee filters to prevent soil from leaking out the drainage holes – and all pots must have drainage holes. For ease in moving the containers about, place on a platform with wheels or use a pot with wheels attached. Happy gardening and see you in May.
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S P U R R APRIL 2009
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COMMUNITY NEWS Gardening Galore! A visual presentation by John Helder, horticulturist with the City of Edmonton. Everything from ‘how to’ prepare planters to information on Front Yards in Bloom and neighbourhood beautification - Come join us for an inspiring evening at Brittania Youngstown Community Hall 15927-105 Ave. April 20th, 2009 @ 7 p.m. Refreshments provided! For further information, please contact Catherine McGuire at (780) 944-5454 or Nicole Magilton, (780) 944-5790 Neighbourhood & Community Development, City of Edmonton. Community Development Social Workers work to identify priority issues such as community safety, diversity & inclusion, housing & poverty reduction as well as assist with leadership development & the mobilization of community resources. CANORA
Easter BINGO at Canora March 28, 2009, Please come out and have fun. Activities for all ages. SEE YOU THERE! Thank you everyone who came out for the AGM (Annual General Meeting) on March 15 2009 we had a record turn out. Our new executive is: PRESIDENT Tony Lovell 1ST VICE PRESDENT Ray St. Germain 2ND VICE PRESIDENT Robert Poliues SECRATARY Shandi Hyggen TREASURER Eva Squires PAST PRESIDENT Eleanor Burke MEMBERSHIPS Erin Robins BUILDING Paul Birch CASINO Greg Roberts PROGRAM Roberta Spence EVENTS Christine Lovell BINGO Virginia Lovell PUBLICITY Adina Green GOOD & WELLNESS Stella Benko NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH Eleanor Burke We also would like to thank everyone who helped clean up the graffiti on the hall. We would like to remind our neighbours and 4
friends when you see suspicious activity please call the police. Bingo: Canora Community League is looking for Volunteers within our league to work bingos, if you have some free time and would like to help us out please call Virginia (780) 478-0979 Rentals: The hall is still open for many dates during the year! If you are looking to have a BBQ or Wedding to call Paul at the hall (780) 999-4529 Keeping Clean: Clean up the Neighbourhood, Lets keep our neighbourhood clean, if you see garbage lets pick it up! Lets help out each other. If you have graffiti on your house or garage and want some information on how to remove it! Call Paul: (780) 999-4529 Help the Neighbours: If you notice that one of your Neighbours needs help with shovelling their walks LET’S help…This will help keep the sidewalks clear and safe for people to walk on. MEMBERS: Its never to late, That Canora Community league is always looking to welcome new members. If you would like to become a member please contact Erin (780) 920-2092 Upcoming events: Easter BINGO at Canora March 28, 2009 Board Meeting at Canora April 14, 2009 Volunteer appreciation Dinner April 24 2009 Garage Sale at Canora May 2, 2009 Board Meeting at Canora May 12 2009 BBQ at Canora June 6 2009 Board meeting at Canora June 9 2009 Green Shack opens July 2009 to August 2009 Board meeting at Canora September 8, 2009 Membership Drive at Canora September 12, 2009 CANORA PARK WATCH Canora Park Watch, in conjunction with the City of Edmonton Community Services and the City of Edmonton Police Service,
would like to invite everyone to come out and join us for the following events: APRIL 11: Children’s Easter Egg Hunt at Canora Green Space 149 Street and 104 Avenue at 1:00 p.m. Bring the children out to join in the fun. APRIL 25: Free Bicycle Safety Clinic put on by the City of Edmonton. There are 2 programs, one for 6 to 12 year olds and one for 3 to 5 year olds. Kids must bring their own bikes, bells and helmets to participate. We are still taking pre-registrations. Please call Deckla at (780) 484-1777 to pre-register.
Bully Busters Program Recognition and programming for Aboriginal families – Coyote Pride Mentorship program and Wichitowin Family evenings. Positive behavior and good work habits recognition programs – Shining Stars Extra curricular activities: running club, choir, computer club, yoga club, science club and after school programs Smart Boards in most classrooms Now taking registrations for 2009-2010
GLENWOOD
MAY 24: We will be holding our SECOND ANNUAL MINI CARNIVAL at St. Anne Park, 153 Street at 102 Avenue. There will be entertainment, refreshments, games and prizes. Everyone is invited to come out and join their neighbours for an afternoon of fun and enjoyment. Watch this space for more updates in the next SPURR. We are in need of volunteers for all of the above programs, so if you can assist us please come out and join in. Our meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at Canora Community Hall. Please call Deckla at (780) 484-1777 if you would like more information. Our meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month at the Canora Community Hall. 15425 106 Avenue 780 484-6631 BrightView School “We Care” At Brightview we have: An Instructional focus on Literacy through “Balanced Literacy” in all classrooms & 6 +1 Traits of Writing Full day Kindergarten We meet the needs academically, emotionally and physically of all students. Daily breakfast snack and Free Wednesday hot lunch programs Connections with community partners like the Rotary Club, City of Edmonton, The Family Center Family Center Success Coach – Charmaine McDonald. Small class sizes Professional, accurate, computerized report cards and Individual Program Plans (IPP’s) for special needs students. We are Asset Builders
Did you know Glenwood is 70 Years Old this Year? Keep watching for information about our big birthday bash coming up in September of this year. You won’t believe how old our community is (and how that can be!) We will be looking for volunteers to help with a variety of events, activities and responsibilities for this huge event open to ALL residents of Glenwood! We’re looking at having a Family Fun Day with an outdoor dance, a delicious meal and sending everyone off with a spectacular BANG (fireworks display.) Email Michele at glenwoodcommunity@hotmail.com to get more information or to volunteer your expertise! ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING May 3, 10 a.m. Brunch Drop in for a delicious brunch, and find out how the community is growing and changing. Some community leagues are close to closing their doors find out how Glenwood is doing. We need volunteers for single events, experienced people to help with planning future renovations and upgrades, and some members at large (community residents) to voice their opinions on new developments in and around our community. If you can’t make our monthly meetings on the first Thursday of every month, come out to the May 3rd Annual General Meeting to hear what’s new. We are also hoping to open two youth positions so that the young people of Glenwood can help us make decisions that affect them as well! If you are interested in making Glenwood a community that offers fun programs for young adults – come out and let us know! We need you!
S P U R R APRIL 2009
COMMUNITY NEWS CASINO THANK YOU! A special thank you goes out to Clayton Johnson for all his work in organizing our Glenwood Casino – we couldn’t do it without you. We would also like to thank all of our volunteers for their efforts. If you weren’t able to help out this year, don’t worry – there are other opportunities to lend a hand (that can mean short term help – not always something that needs lots of time.) Come out to the AGM to find out how you can help keep Glenwood a growing community. SOCCER & BASEBALL Registration If you need to register your child for soccer this year, please contact Clayton at (780) 489-2188. To know if we have enough players to field a team, we need everyone to register at their own community league. It would be great to have teams playing in our community again! WATCH THE OILERS MAKE THE PLAYOFFS! Come and watch the Pay-per-View Games for FREE! We have been enjoying good turnouts at our Pay-per-View nights. Join us at the hall for all pay-perview hockey games, and some CBC games in HD! Free admission, cash bar, snacks and/or free popcorn available! Bring your neighbours, your comfy chair and your friends! Doors open 30 minutes before game time. Contact Clayton at (780) 489-2188 for more info. LAST GAMES BEFORE PLAYOFFS Tuesday, April 7 Oilers vs. L.A. 7 p.m. Saturday, April 11 BATTLE OF ALBERTA 8 p.m. Upcoming Scrapbooking Day Out (Next One in May) Katherine hosts scrapbooking days at the hall approximately every two months on a Saturday.... please contact her for upcoming dates at kewchuk@telus.net or visit her website for more information at www.createwithkatherine.myctmh.com. Euchre Join us for Euchre every Tuesday night at the Glenwood Community Hall. Registration at 6:30 p.m., games begin at 7 p.m. Anyone can come to play. SNEAK PEEK at our City of Edmonton Summer Programs Green Thumbs (3-5 Years) A.M. Class Come and get the scoop on
S P U R R APRIL 2009
growing flowers and vegetables. Learn some neat ways that our insect friends help us out in the garden! Planting seeds, crafting some beautiful bugs and making cool garden markers are all part of the fun! Wild at Art (6-9 Years) P.M. Class Explore the world of art in this program. Sample everything from molding clay, paper maché and painting in different forms. Watch for the City of Edmonton Summer Program Guide and register early, with our growing number of families in the neighbourhood, these programs are sure to fill up quickly! Glenwood will once again be running FREE summer drop in playground program at the hall playground this summer. Please come out and enjoy games, crafts and other dramatic play. Last year was a great success, and we look forward to even higher numbers this year. Other Glenwood Information: Have your say and find out about…Community development, League spending and changes, programs offered, what’s new in Glenwood. Community League meetings are open to everyone and are generally held at the hall at 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month. Are you hosting a birthday party? Baby or bridal shower? Family Reunion? Family Christmas Party? Consider renting the Glenwood Community Hall. Friday/Saturday rentals: Members $150*, Non-Members $400 Sunday-Thursday rentals: Members $75*, Non-Members $150 Call the Facility Director, Charlotte at (780) 444-0411 * Must be a member in good standing WEST JASPER PLACE
Seniors programs Our Community League offers a number of programs for our senior members. However everyone is welcome. All programs are offered at the community hall located at 9620-152 street. CARDS Whist on Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Whist on Sunday evenings from 7:00
p.m. to 10:00 p.m.The cost is $1.00. Coffee and snacks provided CRIBBAGE TOURNAMENTS Tournaments are held the first and third Wednesday of every month from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The cost is $5.00 per person. CARPET BOWLING Come and get some exercise on Monday’s from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The cost is $1.00 per person. Prizes are awarded based on number of participants. If you have any questions about the seniors programs, please call Shirley at (780) 489-8945. Soccer Registration Soccer registration was held on March 10, 2009. Fees will be set by registration time. Children from ages 5 to 18 can join soccer. This is a six week program running from the end of April to the end of June, usually two days a week. No experience necessary. Community level program and is tax creditable. Contact Jim at 489-7596 for further information Swimming Your 2008-2009 membership allows your family to swim FREE at Jasper Place pool on Saturday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. till the end of May 2009. Please remember to bring your membership card for admittance. MAYFIELD
Annual General Meeting for the Mayfield Community League Wednesday, April 8, 7:00 p.m. at the Mayfield Community Hall. We will be amending our bylaws as it relates to quorum. Yoga Tuesdays 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. at Mayfield hall $100 per 10 sessions $12 for drop ins Call Fran for info: (780) 484-1476.
Pilates Mondays 8 to 9 p.m. at Mayfield Hall. $100 per 10 sessions $15 for drop ins. Call Bonnie for info 780-489-3254. Carpet Bowling Seniors carpet bowling Tuesdays and Thursdays. For more information call Doreen @ (780) 486-1833 or Marlene @ (780) 484-5728 Moms and Tots Dads, newborns, grandparents, and caregivers all welcome. No cost. Wednesdays 9:30 11:00 a.m. at Mayfield Hall. Cancelled if the weather is -20 with wind chill or colder. For information contact Tara @ (780) 486-6152 Free Swimming for Mayfield community league members. Please show current membership card. Saturday evenings from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Jasper Place Fitness and Leisure Centre, 9200 - 163 Street Free Skating for Mayfield community league members. Please show current membership card or skate tags. Mayfield Community Hall, 10941 - 161 Street. For Information call the hall at (780) 483-4675. Hall Rentals for resident members only. Call Kathy to book at (780) 484-3391 Community Memberships Call Elaine at (780) 481-8108 Contact Information Mike Carson at (780) 444-5986 or e-mail: mayfieldcommunity@yahoo.ca Trinity United Church, 8810 Meadowlark Road UCW Spring New-to-You Sale Saturday April 18 • 9 am-1 pm. Clothing, household items, books, jewelry, and more!
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S P R I N G C L E A N I N G I N T H E DAY S G O N E B Y I N JA S P E R P L AC E MAXINE HEBERT
I feel spring is just around the corner, don’t you? It got me thinking about spring cleaning in the days before electricity, Swiffers, heavy-duty cleaners, and power vacuum cleaners. At our house, it started while there was still snow on the ground. First of all, all the dresser drawers and closets got cleaned out and sorted. Old shirts, dresses, and cotton things were put into one box, old wool jackets and pants into another. Old bed sheets were cut up to see if enough of the edges could be salvaged to make pillowcases. Sometimes our pillowcases were really rather skinny because there was only so much good material left. The scraps were made into cleaning rags. Now, the wool jackets and pants were another matter. They were all taken apart at the seams and washed very carefully, and then Mom would cut out all the pieces that were still good. She would press them between pressing cloths with an old flat iron that was heated on the stove and I still remember the smell. Then, she would take a template that was an elongated halfcircle and cut out all the good pieces. These were made into the
most beautiful rugs. We would take wool and do a buttonhole stitch all along the curvy part. Next, on a piece of burlap, oval-shaped about four feet long and two feet wide with a hem stitched to hold the edges, we would start to handstitch the half circles of woolen material, row upon row, until there was a smaller oval in the centre. Mom would then cut another piece of woolen or felt material, place it in the center, and stitch it down. The rugs were called penny rugs, and in antique shops today they fetch a pretty penny. When spring looked like it was going to burst into action, we would take down all the curtains, and they were washed along with the doilies, with the lace ones dipped into blueing rinse water to make them super white. They were then all hung outside on the clothesline, but first of all we would put all the bedding and blankets out to air, all the time praying the clothesline wouldn’t break otherwise everything would have to be washed all over again. Believe me, that did happen once in a while. The windows would then be
washed with vinegar and water and newspaper before putting the curtains back up. The furniture was all washed down with a solution of Fels Naptha or Sunlight soap, and given a new coat of lemon oil. The hardwood floors were all wiped down with Varsol. This could only be done on a warm day when all the doors could be opened, because one spark and “poof.” Then, when they were dry, a new coat of Shinola wax was put down and then hand rubbed to a shine. Lots of work, but it really smelled good. Then, of course, the rugs were put out on the clothesline to be beaten. All the knicknacks and figurines were given a dunking in soapy water and rinsed, and anything brass was polished up after cleaning with half a lemon dipped in salt. That always left the kitchen last, and the cupboards were all cleaned out and washed with ammonia water. The coal-and-wood stove had to have a thorough cleaning, cleaning out all the wood ash and dust and then shone up with newspaper. The water reservoir on the side was always thoroughly
cleaned out, which was not an easy job as there was always scale that had to be chipped off first and then carefully removed with a cloth. By this time everything was starting to sparkle, and Mom and I were feeling pretty proud of ourselves, but very glad we only had a small house to clean. Before all the cleaning things were put away, I used to like to make a Magic Crystal Garden that always fascinated me. You should try it – it will fascinate kids, young and old alike. First, find an old fish bowl or rose bowl. Even an old pickle jar will work. Then mix up 6 tablespoons of blueing (for laundry – yes, still available) and 1 tablespoon of ammonia. Put some pieces of charcoal (get barbecue charcoal that hasn’t been treated) or coal into your container. Sprinkle a few drops of food colouring over it, pour the above mixture over the charcoal or coal, place in a warm spot, and within a day or so it will start to grow. It is truly magical. Well, I guess I should think about my own spring cleaning, but I am thankful I have a good vacuum cleaner, some really good heavy duty cleaner/degreaser, and the name of a good professional rug cleaner to come and clean my carpets and furniture – very thankful!
T H E D R A G O N F LY D E N
MICHELE HEBERT
Finally – spring in Edmonton! It was such a long winter, or perhaps it always seems like that for a gardener. Spring is a time for renewal. Out with the old, in with the new. What better way to start the new season than by r e n e w i n g yourself. Get a new, updated hairstyle with colour and maybe highlights. Update your wardrobe with a new blouse or cotton sweater. Get a manicure and pedicure (even if you’re a guy) and feel like a million bucks. It gives you a fresh outlook, a better attitude, and a spring in your step. Renew your home, also. It is too easy to get buried under sentimental “junk” – knickknacks and 6
stuff that has been around for way too long. If you’re really attached to it, take a picture and then sell it or donate it. My community, Parkview, is having a garage sale at the community hall on 91 avenue and 146 street on May 2. I have my table booked – come out and meet me and Old Fart. I am going through my house, garage, and garden shed (when I can get to it through the snow), and purging everything I don’t really need or want anymore. Anything I can’t sell, I will donate. It feels so good, and I have found so much more room in my closets, cupboards, and storage room. Why I have kept my daughter’s old, outgrown ballet slippers all these years, I will never know. I have pictures of her in them, and that’s all I need. For sale: four pairs of ballet slippers, cheap. Contact your community events coordinator for a garage sale in your community, and feel “renewed.” I certainly do. S P U R R APRIL 2009
S P U R R P O E T RY C O N T E S T W I N N E R your work ‘out there’ is a worry and stress beyond belief.
ADELE KNOWLER
Poetry is a unique style of writing. The author, for this competition must portray a community, a feeling, and a sense of the human surroundings of the Stony Plain road and area. Writing is a difficult and private medium. To put yourself out there is like baring your soul. To enter a competition is the same as a dancer and painter. Your work, your life is out there for all to peruse, scrutinize, celebrate and ultimately judge. I am a weathered contender, having my artwork scrutinized and judged for some 20 years. It still is a nerve bracing experience. Imagine if you will, a young aspiring writer who put his all with a great and gracious poem about the Stony Plain area for the poetry competition. The stress alone for handing in his work, coupled with the idea of getting
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In my years of entering contests (and yes, I still do), there is the trepidation and exhilaration of the unknown. Do we have work worthy of the competition? Are we good enough? Good enough and the winner by far for the first SPURR Poetry competition is: Eric O’Brien. Congratulations to the 2009 SPURR Poetry Competition winner: Eric O’Brien, a Grant McEwan writing student. Eric will receive a 2009 Writer’s guide to publishing for his winning entry. Following is Eric’s excellent poem on the Stony Plain road and area. Enjoy!
Waiting on Stony Plain Road By Eric O’Brien Stony Plain Road My greatest fear Is not crossing your streets at night Nor your dim bus station lights It’s that during That moment of doubt When you’re trying to choose Whether to look back at me Or to keep your neck muscles knotted That my voice will choke up And I won’t be able To speak the words That’ll make you Love me again
Stony Plain Road I miss the winter We spent together In imperfection Exploring High Park and Canora Posing as tourists Snapping pictures Hot breakfasts at the J.P. Café Coffee-flavoured kisses and cigarettes That linger in my mouth Like a past without a future Stony Plain Road I’m worried that Doubt Won’t ever come And if so, to save my days I guess I’ll walk To Stony Plain Buy new boots And start again
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