St. Albert Leader - Dec. 15, 2011 by St. Albert Leader

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

Shaw looking for seat in Lead Ottawa’s upper chamber INDEX the

News . . . . . . . . . 3 Opinion . . . . . . . . 8 Entertainment . . . . . 11 Lifestyle . . . . . . . . 14 Homes . . . . . . . 15 Health . . . . . . . 16 stalbertjobs.com . . . . 17 Business . . . . . . 18

COVER

Former NAIT president Dr. Sam Shaw has announced that he’ll be seeking one of the three Progressive Conservative party nominations for the upcoming provincial Senate nomination vote. See story, page 3.

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THIS DAY IN HISTORY DEC. 15, 1964

In the wee hours of the morning, the House of Commons votes 163-78 to approve a design for the new Canadian flag. Senate approval is given two days later, and the flag is officially unfurled for the first time on Feb. 15, 1965.

GLENN COOK St. Albert Leader

The race for a potential seat in Canada’s Senate is heating up, with former NAIT president Dr. Sam Shaw announcing his candidacy this week. In an exclusive interview with the St. Albert Leader Tuesday, Shaw said he’ll be seeking one of the three Progressive Conservative nominations in the next Senate nomination election, to be held in conjunction with the next provincial election, believed to be coming in spring 2012. He said that he feels he can really make a difference if he is appointed to the Senate. Photo Supplied “If I didn’t believe that, I Former NAIT president Dr. Sam Shaw announced this week that he will seek wouldn’t be running,” he said. “I one of three PC slots for the next Senate nomination election in Alberta. believe that we’ve got to have an of the votes have been ignored, effective Senate. ... We need to raise natural gas policy development. with prime ministers of the day Between the two roles, he feels the level of not only awareness of choosing their own candidates he has a wealth of experience he the value of the Senate, but also in when Senate seats opened up. can bring the upper chamber of terms of the effectiveness of the But Prime Minister Stephen Parliament. issues we need to deal with in this This is Shaw’s first run for public Harper did appoint Bert Brown country.” office, and he said the performance — the top vote-getter in 2004 — While Shaw, 60, currently lives when a seat came open in 2007. of Premier Alison Redford so far in Calgary, he said he has an Shaw hopes that, if he is prompted him to put his name affinity for St. Albert and a strong successful but not appointed right forward under the PC banner. connection to all the NAIT staff away, he can use the time gap to Other declared candidates for and Canadian Forces members engage debate on Senate reform. the PC nominations who live here. St. Albert city councillor “I want to do some presentations so far include “The work that Len Bracko has also thrown Leduc Mayor Greg to schools, colleges and we did in terms of his hat in the Senate ring, universities, around how we need Krischke, Scott having a campus running as an independent. to have an effective Senate,” he Tannas and Doug there and looking at said. Black. The Wildrose innovation and so See story, page 6 Although the Senate Party has nominated forth, I just have a nominations are a province-wide Vitor Marciano, and intend to put deep spot for St. Albert and all the vote, Shaw doesn’t think hitting all work that happens [there],” he said. forward more names soon. corners of Alberta to get the word St. Albert city councillor Len “When you think about people out will pose a problem, as he did Bracko announced last week he in the community, what they do so with NAIT. would run as an independent. and what they contribute, I just “It’s a great province,” he said. Alberta is the only province think St. Albert is a good example “Everywhere I’ve gone, people to have held Senate nomination of Alberta,” he added. are not that dissimilar across the elections, having done so in 1989, Shaw left NAIT in 2010 to province. From my perspective, 1998 and 2004. accept a position with EnCana I really look forward to it.” For the most part, the results Corporation as vice-president of

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Collision sends four to hospital GLENN COOK St. Albert Leader

Four people were sent to hospital Friday afternoon after a serious collision on Highway 633 west of St. Albert. The quartet were transported to hospital by both air and ground ambulance after the collision between a Pontiac Montana minivan and a Ford Contour sedan near Range Road 263 at about 12:40 p.m. Friday. Morinville RCMP Const. Yelena Avoine said Monday, though, that at least one of the occupants of the vehicles was still in hospital, and that speed and alcohol were not factors. “We just know that the van, the Montana, crossed the centre line,” she said. “The minivan was heading westbound, and the Ford Contour was heading eastbound. And, for unknown reasons, [the van] crossed the centre line.” Avoine added that road conditions were good at the time where the crash happened, just east of the intersection with Highway 44. As a result of the crash, Highway 633 — Villeneuve Road inside St. Albert city limits — was closed from Hogan Road to Highway 44 for about two hours while police investigated. “There was a traffic analyst at the scene,” Avoine said. “It’s still ongoing.”

Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

Norovirus pops up in region GLENN COOK St. Albert Leader

The appearance of the Norovirus is nothing new, according to an Alberta Health Services official, but the spread of it so far this year is a little out of the ordinary. Dr. Chris Sikora, AHS’s medical officer of health for the Edmonton zone, said that there have been 59 cases of the virus in the Capital Region so far this winter in hospital, longterm care facilities and daycares. “The Norovirus, or Norwalk-like virus, does creep up within our communities on a yearly, basis, usually within the fall-winter time period,” Sikora said. “This particular year is similar to other years, although we are seeing more numbers of cases than last year.” There were recently seven cases of Norovirus reported at Leduc Hospital, with one unit of the facility closed down to prevent the spread.

“For most people, it’s not a serious virus,” Sikora said. “It does cause gastrointestinal disease; things that it does cause are vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. It can cause abdominal cramping and headaches in some people. “People usually get better within 48 to 72 hours, and in that time period, it’s really important that people stay hydrated.” While there are many measures people can take to prevent the spread of Norovirus, like disinfecting household surfaces and not sharing towels, Sikora said frequent handwashing is the most important. “Handwashing before and after using the washroom is really important,” he said. “And if you’re taking care of someone who does have Norwalk-like virus, wash your hands before and after preparing food and before and after handling contaminated materials like laundry. “And, if you’re sick, for the sake of all of us, please stay home.”

May the spirit and joy of this season bring Peace and Goodwill to all

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Filled with Christmas spirit Photo: glenn cook, St. Albert leader

St. Albert showed its Christmas spirit once again on Saturday at the annual FillA-Bus event in support of the St. Albert Kinettes’ Christmas hamper campaign. Gathered at the Canadian Tire store on Bellerose Drive for the event were: (back row, L-R) David Overbeck, manager with Diversified Transportation; Garnet Melnyk, municipal enforcement officer; Will Steblyk, planning and customer service manager with St. Albert Transit; (front row, L-R) St. Albert Transit driver Ryan Warford; Austin Spiridakis, 9, who collected $790 worth of groceries and gift cards for the campaign at his birthday party; and St. Albert Kinettes vice-president Amelia Gregresh.

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

McCann family urges no leniency for Vader JEFF CUMMINGS Sun Media News Services

A man considered a suspect in the case of two missing seniors should not have a reduced sentence in unrelated charges because he could vanish from police, urges the seniors’ family. “He is a flight risk,” said Bret McCann about 39-year-old Travis Vader, who testified in court Tuesday that he was held in segregation for seven months and abused by two guards and fellow inmates because of his alleged links to the July 2010 disappearance of Lyle and Marie McCann. It’s a reason why Vader’s lawyer is seeking a reduced sentence after he was convicted Oct. 6 of 12 charges, including break and enter, theft, arson, possession of stolen property and driving while disqualified. The charges relates to a crime spree in Whitecourt, Barrhead and Mayerthorpe areas. “There are all of these charges against him and, in the past, (police) had to hunt him down to find him,” said Bret, the couple’s son, who believes the man could disappear if he is released sooner than the Crown’s suggested sentence of three to four years. Lyle and Marie McCann were last seen fuelling up their motorhome July 3,

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Tackla 5000 Men’s Reg. $99.99 Hockey $ 99 Glove Mary-Ann and Bret McCann stand in front of their parents’ St. Albert home earlier this year. Lyle and Marie McCann have been missing since July 2010. the son is urging him to 2010, at the Superstore share more information with gas bar on St. Albert Trail police. on their way to British “Be a man and say what Columbia. Two days later, you’ve done,” said Bret. their RV was discovered burned out near the Minnow “Help put our family out of this misery.” Lake Campground, about An emotional Vader told 200 kilometres east of a judge during his emotional Edmonton. testimony that he felt he They have since been declared dead and presumed was “thrown to the wolves” as a result of the publicity murdered, but their remains surrounding the case. He have never been discovered. testified that he suffered Mounties have since from “daily torment” from named Vader the only guards and inmates about putative suspect in the case the couple, that included so far, but no charges were grilling questions about their ever laid. whereabouts. McCann said the family has yet to talk to Vader, but — with files from Tony Blais

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

La Rose adds name to PC ballot

GLENN COOK St. Albert Leader

After years volunteering behind the scenes in St. Albert, Kent La Rose is hoping to step up as the riding’s Progressive Conservative nominee in the next provincial election. La Rose announced on Sunday, Nov. 27, that he would add his name to the list of those looking to take over from current MLA Ken Allred, who made it official on Tuesday, Dec. 6, that he would not seek re-election when the writ is next dropped, possibly in spring 2012. “I’m always looking for solutions to problems. If something came up, it was, ‘Go ask Kent,’” he said. Most recently, La Rose was heavily involved in St. Albert’s 150th anniversary celebrations, especially the Rendezvous 2011 picnic in August, but has also volunteered with the Scouts, minor baseball and minor soccer. La Rose joins Greater St. Albert Catholic Schools trustee Jacquie Hansen, local

businessman Steve Khan and former Canadian Forces helicopter pilot Jeff Wedman in the PC nomination race, which will be decided on Tuesday, Jan. 31. It’s a crowded list, but La Rose is elated with the interest the race has garnered. “I’m very happy we have the quality of people on the nomination ballot that we do. ... I think the quality of the candidates here will make for an excellent choice, and I’m hoping to inspire people to come out and vote.” With his volunteer experience, La Rose’s commitment to public service is evident, but he said the timing was right to step up. “It’s that time in my life — my kids have all grown up and moved away from home. My wife has been promoted to an executive position. I have the opportunity now,” he said. “The opening came up and I thought, ‘If I’m going to do it, now would be the time.’” He added that he has always identified himself as a PC, so there was no doubt which party to run for.

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Bracko aims for Senate “I believe the Senate should be where it’s not party-oriented, like what goes St. Albert Leader on in the House of Commons,” he said. After stints in municipal and provincial “We need to get away from that. Senators politics, Len Bracko now has his sights set need to move away from that and work on the national stage. together. … I believe we need to work Bracko, 67 — who has served four where the rubber hits the road, and not terms on St. Albert city council since follow an ideology.” 1989 and one term as MLA for the Alberta is the only province in provincial riding of St. Albert under the Canada that has held elections for Senate Alberta Liberal Party banner from 1993 nominees, in 1989, 1998 and 2004. While to 1997 — announced on Wednesday, most federal governments of the day have Dec. 7, that he will be running largely ignored the results of for a spot in the Canadian those elections and continued to Senate as an independent when make their own appointments, the next nominee vote is held Prime Minister Stephen Harper in conjunction with the next appointed Bert Brown — who provincial election, expected to got the most votes in the 2004 be called in spring 2012. election — to the Senate when a “It’s a continuation of my seat opened up in 2007. political career,” he said. “I’ve Bracko said that, with Alberta been at the municipal level, the Senators Tommy Banks, Brown provincial level, worked with the Len and Joyce Fairbairn all set to Bracko Alberta Urban Municipalities reach the mandatory retirement Running for Senate age of 75 in the next three years, Association and been on the board there, and with the the wait shouldn’t be too long if Federation of Canadian Municipalities, he does win. I’ve been with committees for five years “The time factor isn’t important to and been on the board for five years. I’ve me. I think it’s a tremendous privilege to got a good understanding of the various run for the Senate, and I believe we can parts of Canada through the FCM and make some very positive changes, build what happens.” partnerships, make things happen in our Bracko said he wanted to run as an country and build a longer-term plan that independent as a representation of his benefits everybody,” he said. belief — and what he feels is the belief of And, if he does prevail, he doesn’t many Canadians — that party politics expect too much of a culture shock. must be pushed aside in the interest of “More than anyone else, I can hit the co-operation. floor running,” Bracko said.

GLENN COOK

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Merry Christmas to All

d from Our schools will be close R 23, NOON on DECEMBE 2012 2011 until JANUARY 9, for the Christmas break

May God’s love be with you this holy season and year round. Our schools are filled with prayer, song, and service as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus. We honour the students, staff and parents of all of the schools in our communities for all they are giving to others this Christmas season. Schools are closed Dec. 23, 2011 – Jan. 8, 2012 Division office is closed Dec. 26, 2011 – Jan. 2, 2012 (Closed 12-1 p.m. on Jan. 3, 4, 5 & 6)

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

SOA looks to partner up GLENN COOK St. Albert Leader

Giving a hand up

Photo: glenn cook, St. Albert leader

Devon Wells, an employee with Always Plumbing and Heating, helps load food donations onto the back of a cube van during their food drive Saturday at the Walmart on Stony Plain Road in Edmonton. Part of the donations went to the St. Albert Food Bank.

Special Olympics Alberta is hoping to pair up their athletes with businesses to make the upcoming 2012 National Winter Games in St. Albert a “once-in-alifetime” experience. The provincial organization is currently running their DraftAn-Athlete program where, for a minimum commitment of $1,000, a business can sponsor an athlete with intellectual disabilities on Team Alberta during the national games, set to kick off in St. Albert on Feb. 28, 2012. Marvin Babiuk, director of marketing and partnerships for Special Olympics Alberta and a St. Albert resident, said the DraftAn-Athlete program has been done before, but he hopes local businesses with jump on board. “Especially with it being in our own backyard, it’s a great opportunity for people to be able to support the team of athletes coming to St. Albert,” he said. There will be 78 athletes from across the province on Team Alberta, who will join athletes from across the country to compete in snowshoeing, floor

hockey, figure skating, speed skating, cross-country skiing and curling. Alpine skiing events will be held in Jasper. Businesses have the option of either having an athlete randomly selected for them, or they can make a request to sponsor a specific athlete.

“It’s about seeing the smiles and ... the enthusiasm.” Marvin Babiuk Special Olympics Alberta “Right now, we’re reaching out. It’s near the end of tax season for some people, and the games are just over two months away, so we’re looking at doing a strong push over the next couple of weeks to build up the corporate donations,” Babiuk said. For their contribution, businesses receive their logo and a link on the SOA website and newsletter; their logo on trading cards distributed to athletes; the opportunity to have an athlete visit to speak to staff and customers; 10 Team Alberta pins and a keepsake

for the office; and the right to use the SOA and Team Alberta logos on their marketing materials. As the games inch closer and closer, Babiuk said the buzz is building around the provincial office. “We’re really excited about the [national] winter games being in our home province,” he said. “What it’s going to mean to Alberta is that the national spotlight will be in Alberta, focusing on Special Olympics. And just like any other games, we expect there to be a wonderful legacy left behind, where the appreciation from the community to Special Olympics will be that much greater.” He added that medals are nice for the athletes, but he hopes athletes just have a great time in St. Albert. “Regardless of if they’re from Alberta, Ontario or Manitoba, it’s almost like winning medals, to some, seems secondary,” Babiuk said. “It’s seeing the smiles and the energy and the enthusiasm in their faces.” For more information on the program or to get a Draft-AnAthlete form, visit specialolympics. ab.ca or call Babiuk at 780-4225505.

More sex abuse allegations against former SAMHA coach

PAMELA ROTH Sun Media News Services

A former Spruce Grove teacher already facing sex charges — who served as a coach in the St. Albert Minor Hockey Association — is now being investigated by Mounties in B.C. for allegations of sex abuse two decades ago. On Oct. 21, RCMP in Prince Rupert, B.C., began their investigation into Robert John Paolinelli’s past youth hockey coaching and

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refereeing activities while associated with the Prince Rupert Minor Hockey Association (PRMHA) in the mid-’80s to late ’90s. Their investigation was sparked after Stony Plain RCMP charged the 42-year-old in early October in relation to incidents that occurred outside of the school district. Following the charges, Mounties in Prince Rupert received a complaint from a young man. RCMP would not specify the nature of the complaint or the man’s relation to

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Paolinelli, other than both were in the hockey community. RCMP Cpl. Dan Moskaluk said there is a possibility there may be more victims during Paolinelli’s tenure as a coach and referee, but so far no charges have been laid. “Given the nature of this incident, we have to look very closely to uncover any other victims or witnesses that could further the investigation,” Moskaluk said. Paolinelli is from Prince Rupert and was

president of the PRMHA in the late 1990s. Paolinelli has been a coach in Alberta for about 10 years, coaching with teams in Red Deer, Spruce Grove and most recently St. Albert. He was teaching food studies to Grade 9 to 12 students at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Spruce Grove when he was charged with sexual assault, sexual exploitation and forcible confinement in early October. Paolinelli was removed from the classroom as a result of the criminal investigation.

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

OPINION

iStAlbert

Changing of the PC guard

Here’s what people are saying about #StAlbert on Twitter:

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s another provincial election lurks around the corner — everyone knows it’s coming, but nobody knows exactly when — it’s understandable that there would be a few sitting MLAs who decide it’s time to turn in the paperwork and briefcase in favour of golf clubs and fishing rods. by Glenn Cook But, over the past week or two, it seems there have been an inordinate number of Progressive Conservative MLAs announcing they won’t seek re-election in the rumoured election of spring 2012. It started with long-time cabinet minister Iris Evans, and continued with St. Albert’s own Ken Allred. Since then, several more names have been struck from the PCs’ nomination list, like former health minister Ron Liepert and former Speaker Ken Kowalski, whose bowing out flip-flops on an announcement he made not even three months ago that he would seek a 10th term representing Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock. That’s a whole lot more than the normal attrition that comes around every election. So what gives? Is it simply a remarkable coincidence that they all decided to call it quits now? Or is it a case of the proverbial rats getting off what they perceive to be a sinking ship? Any of the retiring MLAs who have been asked will deny that the recent ascent of Premier Alison Redford to the leadership of the party had little to nothing to do with their decisions; Allred told the St. Albert Leader his mind had been made up before the vote was held. But such a rash of departures over such a short time period is more than a little suspicious. Either way, it may be a blessing in disguise for the PCs, opening up positions for younger candidates with fresh ideas who may not have previously been able to crack the party structure — much like Redford herself, who now represents the riding (Calgary-Elbow) former premier Ralph Klein once did. It’s a changing of the guard that could give a breath of fresh air to a stagnant party. Whether or not the rest of Alberta voters are ready to embrace that change, though, remains to be seen.

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EDITORIAL

@ArtsandHeritage Arts & Heritage #StAlbert launched a new-look website! Check it out at www.artsheritage.com/

@Dorinkitza Volunteering @stalbertkinsmen assembling Xmas baskets with the kinettes #stalbert #nonprofit

Compiled by Swift Media Group swiftmedia.ca • @Swift_Media

City’s beauty, history a timely reminder

love my city. Strange words, perhaps, to describe an emotional response to an entity as intangible as a “city,” but nonetheless, these words are the best answer to the question that I’ve fielded more often than any other. That question is: “Why on earth would you run for city council?” Why? St. Albert is a city of incredible beauty. If you walk the Red Willow Trail system, irrespective of the season, the beauty is selfevident. The trails take you from the bustle of traffic and allow you to experience serenity, even in the midst of a busy city. Wander the trails along the Sturgeon River to Big Lake and you will encounter wildlife

Wes

BRODHEAD City Councillor My City around the lake and along a unique prairie river. Across the river, you will see the Grey Nuns White Spruce Forest, a stand of trees that represent a view of the land not seen for 150 years. St. Albert is a city with history. It is the oldest unfortified community in Alberta and a community with a unique and colorful past. But in St. Albert, we do more than just remember; we seek to honour our history by working to preserve it. Without this commitment, the museum,

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Editor: Glenn Cook

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Founders’ Walk, the St. Albert Grain Elevators, the St. Albert Train station, Chevigny House, and the Banque d’Hochelaga — to name a few — would all be gone, and our city would be a poorer place as a result. St. Albertans are people with heart. Businesses thriving, young hockey players realizing their National Hockey League dream, track athletes winning national acclaim, thousands of children and adults playing sports while others compete in music festivals and writing competitions — all reveal a community with a heart to succeed. Volunteers by the thousands enable our social agencies to function and civic events to f lourish

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thereby creating a sense of community that is often compared to a small town. Finally, St. Albert is a city of peace. Recently, I was honoured to welcome home soldiers from Afghanistan, many of whom called St. Albert home. It reminded me not only of their personal sacrifice to bring peace to a far away land but also of the privilege of living in our city — a city of peace. So, in this season when we celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, stop and enjoy the city we call home; give a gift to someone who has less than you. Have a very Merry Christmas and a great New Year. Owned and operated by

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

St. Albert’s Ray traded to Argos

St. Albert Leader

Ricky Ray will have a new home come next season — at least on the football field. Edmonton Eskimos general manager Eric Tillman announced Monday that Ray, 32 — a St. Albert resident and the Canadian Football League club’s starting quarterback since 2002 — had been traded to the Toronto Argonauts in exchange for quarterback Steven Jyles, Canadian kicker and Edmonton native Grant Shaw and the Argos’ first-round pick (second overall) in the 2012 CFL Canadian Draft. “Not only in terms of what [Ray] has accomplished as a player but in terms of the person that he is, this is not a decision that you make lightly,” Tillman said. “Football is a great game, but sometimes it’s not a great business, and sometimes we’re faced with judgment calls, subjective decisions that affect people’s lives, people’s families.” Over nine years at the helm of the Eskimos — he skipped the 2004 CFL season while trying to latch on with the New York Jets of the National Football League — Ray amassed 40,529 yards and 210 touchdowns through the air while throwing 130 interceptions. He added more than 2,600 yards and 36 TDs rushing. With numbers like that, it was no

surprise to Tillman that the Argos — who had long been rumored to be looking at an upgrade at quarterback this offseason — came calling. “They were very aggressive. ... We were not looking to trade Ricky, and we were very reluctant to do so,” he said. “Talking about this trade, there is no way we can articulate the emotional swings we’ve dealt with because of our respect for Ricky, how beloved he is throughout our organization and how respected he is in the community.” Meanwhile, Jyles, 29, started his career with the Eskimos in 2006, seeing little action as a backup to Ray over two seasons. His best season so far came in Winnipeg in 2010, with 2,804 yards passing and 19 touchdowns,

Bunz cut from World Jr. roster

and he supplanted Cleo Lemon as Toronto’s starter about halfway through the 2011 season after returning from shoulder surgery. Between Jyles, Kerry Joseph, Matt Nichols and Eric Ward, Tillman believes the Esks have enough firepower at the QB position to be a contender in 2012. “I think there’s a consensus throughout our locker room that each of [Nichols and Ward] have a chance to develop into starting quarterbacks in this league in time. ... Steven won’t come in here as the anointed one,” he said. “There will be a competition, just like there is at any position.”

Unfortunately, Tyler Bunz’s chance to tend the goal for Team Canada in his own backyard evaporated early Wednesday morning. That’s when the St. Albert native and Edmonton Oilers draft pick got the phone call no player looks forward to, telling him that he had been cut from the national team roster for the World Junior Hockey Championships, which kick off Boxing Day at Rexall Place in Edmonton. Tyler “It’s tough to take this Bunz morning but you’ve gotta Goaltender move on from it and go back to your club team and still perform well,” he told the Calgary Herald Wednesday at the team hotel. Returning goalie Mark Visentin of the OHL’s Niagara IceDogs will start between the pipes for Team Canada, with Scott Wedgewood of the OHL’s Plymouth Whalers serving as the backup. Bunz will now return to the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers, where he had a 2.57 GAA and a .922 save percentage in 29 games before the selection camp started. — GLENN COOK

Photo: Sun Media News Services

Edmonton Eskimos quarterback and St. Albert resident Ricky Ray was traded Monday to the Toronto Argonauts.

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GLENN COOK

Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

O Lever as 70 ed %

Holiday helper

Photo: glenn Cook, St. Albert leader

Connor Giger, 2, gets a hand from dad Jeff in putting a craft together at the Letters to Santa event, held at the St. Albert Grain Elevator Park on Saturday afternoon.

Cops seek shoplifter GLENN COOK St. Albert Leader

WED. WE D. GAZ OCT 12, 19, 26/ 6/11 11 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3x 3x18 182 18 2 {p {pro roce ro cess ce ss}} ss

St. Albert RCMP are on the lookout for a woman who helped herself to several fivefinger discounts at a local department store last month. Between 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 16, a woman walked into London Drugs, located at 19 Bellerose Dr. in St. Albert, and proceeded to take several baby outfits off their hangers and place them in store-branded reusable bags. She then left the store without paying for the items. A little while later, the woman returned to the store, picked out a leather footstool priced at $219.99 plus GST, and walked out without paying for it, either. She did not return to the store again that evening and made no attempt to pay for any of the items. She was, however, captured on the storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s security cameras, and police are

Photo courtesy St. Albert RCMP

Surveillance footage shows the suspect in a shoplifting case at London Drugs in St. Albert. suspect herself, but may now trying to identify her. be able to identify the The female suspect is perpetrator. This woman is described as Caucasian, described as 35 to 40 years about 30 years old, fiveold, five-foot-five and 180 foot-five, 170 pounds, with pounds, with long dark long straight dyed blonde brown hair and wearing hair. At the time, she was glasses with black frames, wearing a white hooded a white long-sleeved shirt vest with a fur collar, a and a black vest. black jacket and black Anyone with any athletic pants. She was also information about either carrying a cellphone with an aqua blue-coloured case. of these women is asked to call the St. Albert RCMP The suspect entered detachment at 780-458the store with another 7700 or Crime Stoppers at Caucasian female, who 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). police stress is not a

Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

ENTERTAINMENT

Oldman adds spy to resumé JIM SLOTEK Sun Media News Services

Rustling through notes while awaiting an interview, I look up with a start to see a genial, bespectacled Gary Oldman standing in front of me in the hotel room, sans the usual publicist’s introduction. Did he glide in supernaturally, a skill acquired years ago from playing Dracula? More pertinently, I suggest to the man who plays John le Carre’s favourite MI6 operative George Smiley in the film Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, that he has the stealth skills to make a good spy indeed. “It’s just a very soft carpet,” he says in his surprisingly gentle speaking voice. “The truth is I’d make a terrible spy. I guess in a way, certainly the role-playing and the taking on of other identities makes the comparison obvious. But acting’s the opposite of spying. You’re always trying to get to the truth of something. You’re not lying. You’re not trying to be dishonest. “And dishonesty and infidelity, I can’t stand it. It’s not part of my makeup.” From Sid Vicious to Harry Potter’s Sirius Black to Batman’s Commissioner

Gordon, Oldman has inhabited many disparate roles. An interview with him is different than other actors (whom one feels one “knows”). In person, there is a sense of never having seen him before. For Smiley — a role made famous by Sir Alec Guinness in the acclaimed 1979 Tinker, Tailor mini-series — Oldman merely had his hair greyed and thinned. And yet many early reviews refer to “a barely recognizable Gary Oldman.” A shape-shifter is what he claims to have always wanted to be. “Every actor rattles off their lists of favourites. And I remember growing up in the ’60s and ’70s in the U.K. and admiring Alec Guinness, who ironically became the face of George Smiley when he was almost 70. “But I think ultimately of (1949’s) Kind Hearts and Coronets, where he dressed up and played seven different people. And Peter Sellers was another hero of mine, who could don many disguises. I think I was influenced by that at an early age, the fun of giving the appearance of becoming another person.” Admiration aside, Oldman did not look

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to Guinness for inspiration for the role of Smiley. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, directed by Tomas Alfredson (Let the Right One In), tells the story of the cynical former operative Smiley being called back by “The Circus” (the nickname for the British Secret Service) to hunt for a Soviet mole in the highest reaches of the organization. Smiley’s cool, relentless calculation is a counterpoint to earlier roles which Oldman glibly recalls as “banging against the walls. I’m much more on the lookout for sitting-down parts now, like Commissioner Gordon. “But you play internalized pretty much the same way you let go,” he says. “All the clues to playing him were really in the material. There’s a passage in the book where (his unfaithful wife) Ann talks about Smiley and says he can almost regulate his body temperature to that of the room in a situation he’s in like a reptile. “I like the fact that he’s sure of his beliefs. He’s very loyal to the game inside of the Circus, and begets a great deal of respect from people because of how honest and loyal he is.”

Photo: Sun Media News Services

Gary Oldman poses in front of a poster featuring his character from Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy at the Los Angeles premiere of the movie on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

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Smooth sailing for Moulton

emails, if I need to talk to my agent at all or any of that kind of stuff,” Moulton said. The son of two actors — with dad Paul currently It can be a rough life for an actor, but lately, Jeff serving as executive director of the Arts and Heritage Moulton has been more worried about rough seas. Foundation of St. Albert — theatre is in Moulton’s The 26-year-old St. Albert native is currently the blood, although he admits he wasn’t quite sure at first if male swing for performances on the Disney Wonder, he wanted to follow in those footsteps. a 964-foot-long, 2,700-passenger cruise ship operated “I had had a lot of arts exposure when I was a kid,” by Disney Cruise Lines that sails around the Mexican he said. “But it wasn’t until I started really getting Riviera each week. On board, he is always at the ready involved in St. Albert Children’s Theatre, doing all to step in for one of the male leads in the one of the those productions.” many productions in the 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre. The Children’s Theatre, he added, not only gave “It can be an up-and-down existence as an actor; him a chance to perform but also to build up other there’s a lot of feast or famine in the industry,” he said attributes that have served him well. from a busy café in Los Angeles on Sunday, the only “I really think it does wonderful things day of the week he’s on dry land. for young people’s “But I’ve been really fortunate. I’ve confidence and seen a lot of success ... I’ve been their ability to apply working really steadily.” themselves, to step out of the Moulton has most notably classroom, in a way,” he said. appeared in the Queen musical Moulton went to École We Will Rock You at Toronto’s Ed Father Jan and Sir George Jeff Moulton Mirvish Theatre, on an episode of Simpson Junior High School Actor the CTV series Instant Star and in a before heading into Edmonton commercial for MuchMusic. to attend Victoria School of the But the opportunity to sail the high seas while Arts for high school. performing as some of the most beloved Disney After high school, Moulton moved to Ontario to characters was one he couldn’t turn down. study in the renowned musical theatre program at After a few auditions set up through his agent in Sheridan College in Oakville, just outside Toronto. Toronto, Moulton was brought on board to play Peter “It’s got some really fantastic instructors. I Pan on the ship in a production called Disney Dreams can’t say enough about the people there,” he in the summer of 2009. said, adding that the school’s proximity to the After eight months, Moulton moved on to other Toronto theatre scene and events like the Stratford projects, but soon got a call back from Disney. Shakespeare Festival made the experience richer. “They were in sudden need of an emergency Since graduating in 2003, Moulton has replacement, because somebody had to leave the ship continually found himself moving south while unexpectedly. So they called me in for that, and I think his career heads in the opposite direction. I wowed them with my ability to pick up a lot of shows “I went to Toronto, and now I’m down in L.A. on the fly,” he said. I’m sure I’ll eventually end up at the Equator,” he In the male swing position, Moulton has had to learn said with a laugh. at least eight roles in six different shows, and has to be Moulton’s contract with Disney expires in April, and ready to step in at a moment’s notice. while he’s thankful for the experience, he has plenty of “If anyone gets sick or injured, it’s my job to leap other aspirations back on dry land, including his longinto any one of the male roles. ... It’s just my job to be standing dream of making it on Broadway. poised and ready,” he said. “I get to sit back and watch “I think I find myself less attached specifically to one the shows sometimes, so it seems like an easy job, until company,” he said. “Although working for Disney has suddenly it’s a very hard job.” been fantastic, I think I’m more interested in growing However, the days off can be just as hectic. as an artist and expanding my career in as many “I like to catch up on the Internet, send important different areas as I can. I like the challenge.”

GLENN COOK St. Albert Leader

“It seems like an easy job, until ... it’s a hard job.”

Photo Supplied

St. Albert native Jeff Moulton is hitting the high seas as part of the performing cast on a Disney Cruise Lines ship sailing the Mexican Riviera.

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

LIFESTYLE

Dating gifts can be diamonds or coal JOANNE RICHARD Sun Media News Services

’Tis the season to be ho-ho-horribly wracked by gift-giving anxiety, especially if you’re just freshly dating. Spending struggles abound. Just how many dates do you have to go on before giving a gift? Just how much is too much? Tricky questions — and the wrong answers could sink a promising relationship, according to the experts. A new survey by Match.com, a dating website, says most Canadians believe in giving a gift after one to two months. And more men than women believe in giving gifts to someone they’ve been dating only a few weeks. According to Match.com relationship expert Kimberly Moffit, “all gifts send messages… it can be interpreted, or misinterpreted, by your new partner as needy, too extravagant, cheap or inconsiderate.” The pressure is on for new couples to give each other the perfect gift and it can take its toll. Have a price limit and talk about gifts in advance.

“It may sound unromantic but communication, especially when you are first getting to know each other, can help to avoid embarrassment if things do go wrong,” Moffit says. Gift giving is tricky in the first stages of dating because you can make or break a relationship, says Dr. Pepper Schwartz, chief relationship expert at Perfectmatch. com. “You don’t want to be cheap, but you don’t want to do anything that is so expensive it creates some turmoil over whether or not it should be accepted. Also, you don’t know this person very well so it’s hard to know what will please them.” Shallow or not, we place a lot of value on the dollar amount of a gift, Schwartz says. “Much of human trust is predicated on the exchange of gifts,” Schwartz says. “We do want to know that the gift means something and so, in lieu of deep knowledge about one another, knowing that the gift was worth more than trivial money makes us feel that the person cared enough not to buy just any cheap trinket.” Do not snatch up something generic that anybody could pick up in a grocery or hardware store, stresses Schwartz,

a sociology professor and love and relationship ambassador for AARP. “Or making it obviously so cheap that it looks like they didn’t try very hard to either look for something — or spend anything — that would make this more than a last-minute, unimportant thought,” Schwartz says. According to Moffit, not giving a gift is often the biggest mistake you can make. “Canadians appreciate the small gestures around the holidays,” Moffit says. “If you’ve just started a relationship, consider doing something small but thoughtful. A favourite home-cooked meal or a handwritten card with some sexy coupons can let your new date know that they are meaningful to you” — and that you want the relationship to continue to bloom. If you’re just starting a relationship, stay away from anything too personal in nature, adds Moffit. “Gifts send messages. Giving someone a healthy cookbook might seem like a great idea, it can also be misinterpreted and come across as a suggestion that you think they need to lose a few pounds,” she says.

Photo: Sun Media News Services

Spending too much or too little on gifts — especially early in a relationship — can send the wrong message, experts say.

THIS WEEK

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St. Albert Sports City – Why St. Albert? Why did the SAS Sports & Entertainment Group (the Group) select St. Albert for the unique and signature integrated real estate development and the community of St. Albert Sports City?

John Sutherland

Edmonton Prospects Baseball Club Head Coach & Director of Sales/Ticketing Tel: (587) 985-0516 Email: pjsutherland13@hotmail.com #207, 125 Carleton Drive St. Albert, Alberta, Canada T8N 3S6

It starts with the Group being comprised of present and former St. Albert and area business people and sports enthusiasts, many being leaders in their local communities within the City. They became linked through a strong common interest and commitment to excellence in sports and the need to add more sports facilities due to the growing population of St. Albert and the region. What began as a quest to build a regional baseball stadium and baseball training centre, expanded when the group encountered other local sports organizations that were experiencing similar difficulties in getting access to scarce sports facilities for their programs. This was the beginning of what would eventually constitute St. Albert Sports City. St. Albert is a preferred location for many people to set their roots and establish their lives due to many factors, which include the historic past of St. Albert, the scenic beauty of the City, its many parks and trails, great

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residential and safe communities, good schools, medical facilities and services, area trading centre and close proximity to Edmonton. In 2005 the Group identified what, at the time, seemed to be an ideal site on annexed property in the northwest quadrant of St. Albert; unfortunately, after considerable effort on their part, the property was not available for sale nor was any other suitable location. Further investigations led to Sturgeon County and the City of Edmonton however, the real estate market, the economy and the investment climate were affected by a global economic meltdown. Finally, the opportunity to return to St. Albert was presented in very close proximity to the original location which is parallel to the extension of Ray Gibbon Drive with quick access to the major ring road Anthony Henday Drive. If anything, there is now a greater demand for sports facilities than before in St. Albert and the Greater Edmonton Area. The size of the location permitted the Group to integrate the sports facilities as well as sports development and training programs through an integrated real estate development into a much larger, vibrant and more sustainable community, St. Albert Sports City.

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

HOMES

Feathered friends fly through the frost and uncommon birds. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology (www.birds.cornell.edu) is a Nothing brightens a grey veritable encyclopedia of birds, winter day like birdsong and a their habitats, food, behaviour few feathery friends in the snowy and whether a given species is at landscape outside your window. risk, as well as digital and video Backyard birders know the lure of recordings, too. Interest groups the bird — the promise of spring like Nature Canada, Bird Studies they bring, and the wonder these Canada (www.bsc-eoc.org) delicate-looking creatures inspire and even stores like Wild Birds just by surviving outside in a Unlimited offer tips for attracting Canadian winter. birds to your backyard and how to It isn’t difficult to attract birds to solve challenges. your backyard with sophisticated And there are challenges — specialty stores offering plenty of namely, squirrels, raccoons and options for feeders and accessories. cats. Squirrel-proof feeders are But some people worry that feeding an option; most work by having birds makes them dependent openings accessible to birds on humans. Not really, says that become caged off when a Ted Cheskey, manager of bird heavier animal, such as a squirrel, conservation programs at Nature mounts the feeder. Baffles, which Canada. encase the pole, can be added “Birds are quite adaptable, and to deter squirrels and raccoons this is just another source of food from climbing — just ensure that for them,” he says. “They do not predators can’t jump from a nearby become dependent on one food shrub or structure to the feeder. source — the birds that would, Cheskey likes hanging feeders, wouldn’t survive very long.” especially something as easy to Birds search out many sources install as a birdseed bell hung in a of food, even spot inaccessible in urban areas, to squirrels. which means, if He’s had success you put the right attracting feed out where chickadees and birds can see it nuthatches (they find food within hours of Ted Cheskey by sight) and hanging a bell. Nature Canada where it doesn’t However, easyendanger them to-access seed (safe from squirrels, cats and other may attract so-called bully birds, predators), they’ll likely find their too, like pigeons or non-native way to your backyard. species that crowd out the smaller To get started, research birds birds. that over-winter in your region. Lower-quality inexpensive seed, The Internet has plenty of info which have filler grains attractive — birders, not surprisingly, are to pest birds, should also be excellent record keepers and avoided. Some better quality food, share their experience on websites like niger seed, which is high in and blogs. Local and provincial calories and oil content, are less ornithological associations often attractive to the bullies and tasty offer picture galleries of common and healthy for certain species,

KATHLEEN DORE Sun Media News Services

“This is just another source of food for them.”

Photo: DEREK RUTTAN, Sun Media News Services

While many birds fly south during the winter months, plenty stick around to chow down at bird feeders kept by Canadian homeowners when it turns cold. Experts say attracting birds isn’t too diffucult. such as gold finch and pine siskin. Cheskey advises setting up a variety of feeders in different locations of the yard with various types of food; the strategy being that multiple stations will provide enough for everyone, and, because different species prefer different foods and feed in different manners, multiple stations will attract the greatest variety of birds to your backyard, including low feeders. “Juncos, some sparrows and some other species of birds, like cardinal and mourning dove, will get the seed that splashes down from a pole feeder,” says Cheskey. In fact, some backyard birders forego installing feeders and simply scatter seed atop the snow. But that’s not advisable as it will attract squirrels, mice and even rats. “People don’t want to hear that, but it’s a reality,” says Cheskey. It’s better to invest in pestproof feeders than assist those populations to grow. Pay attention to habitat, too. Next spring, introduce trees,

shrubs and plants native to your area and also perennials with plenty of seed heads. Cheskey says providing an appropriate source of food and habitat can easily turn your backyard into a stop for some of the billions of birds that migrate south every fall. Later in winter, that same habitat will provide shelter and food for over-wintering species. And remember to just add water — essential for birds in winter. Heated birdbaths aren’t exorbitantly expensive and provide an important place for birds to drink and clean their feathers (clean feathers fluff up and provide insulation against the cold). A less expensive option is purchasing a deicer for an existing concrete or plastic birdbath (check with the manufacturer if your bird bath will work safely with a deicer). If cats are a problem in your garden, skip the birdbath, it won’t be a bird-friendly idea. Once installed, change and clean feeders every three to four weeks and freshen the birdbaths.

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

HEALTH

Exercise a joint effort: Doc joint pain and stiffness. Walking, genetics, overuse and obesity. swimming or taking a yoga class three “Once this process begins, it progresses to four times each week will help reduce over your life with continued breakdown stiffness, increase flexibility and promote of the cartilage and the joint,” Clarfield weight loss, which lessens joint burden.” adds. “It is important to protect the joint He recommends visiting a and do everything possible to slow the physiotherapist or sports process.” medicine doctor for guidance in One of the keys to maintaining finding an appropriate regimen. joint integrity, he notes, is regular “Regular exercise is important, exercise. and it’s important to do it Many doctors, however, tell smartly,” says Clarfield. patients with arthritic joints to Despite his own “bad hip,” the curtail physical activity. former triathlete keeps fit — and But Clarfield says inactivity is provides nourishment to his the wrong prescription. joints — by regularly running, “It makes me mad,” he notes. Michael cycling, golfing, skiing and “They (doctors) think they are Clarfield playing tennis and hockey. (erring on the side of caution), Doctor But joints need more than just but it’s not caution. It’s actually exercise. Clarfield offers other tips for doing more harm to people.” healthy joints, like maintaining a healthy Exercise may have to be modified, but body weight, getting plenty of rest, making it shouldn’t be stopped, according to the occupational changes, applying heat to good doc. Clarfield says joints are “nourished with increase blood flow, staying hydrated, making some dietary changes, and trying movement.” physical therapy. He adds, “Moderate low-impact For more information, visit www. aerobic exercise, along with light strength training, has been proven to help eliminate sportmedspecialists.com.

CARY CASTAGNA Sun Media News Services

Photo: Sun Media News Services

Despite living with a “bad hip,” Dr. Michael Clarfield, a former triathlete, skis, runs, bikes, golfs and plays hockey. He says joints are “nourished with movement.”

Consider this: your body is only as strong as its weakest link. And the weakest link is often your joints — whether it’s a frozen shoulder, an aching sacroiliac, arthritic knees or a variety of other debilitating conditions. “Wearing of the joints, although it’s not caused by aging, is related to aging,” Dr. Michael Clarfield, director of The Sports Medicine Specialists clinic in Toronto, tells Sun Media. “As we get older, a lot of people experience wear in the joints and I’m one of them. I’ve got a bad hip.” The 56-year-old doc — head team physician for the Toronto Maple Leafs from 1989 to 2005 — explains that joints are cushioned with cartilage, a connective tissue made of collagen. Over time, that protective cartilage can become thin or damaged, causing boneto-bone contact, or osteoarthritis pain and reduced mobility, says Clarfield. The cartilage breakdown results from a variety of factors, including trauma,

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Dos and don’ts of the office party SUN MEDIA NEWS SERVICES – The annual office party is filled with minefields: What’s the best way to introduce your self to the boss’s spouse? How should you recognize the accomplishments of co-workers? Is a toast appropriate? Is your cocktail dress too revealing? Will anyone notice you wore the same tuxedo pants suit last year? Speech coach Chris Jahnke (author of The Well-Spoken Woman; www.wellspokenwoman.com) and style guru Tara Luizzi, share dos and don’ts for every woman to look and sound her best at cocktail receptions and formal dinners.

ThE TOAST The season for merriment is the perfect occasion to offer a toast. The gesture gives you a chance to shine while praising coworkers. Here’s how to give a well-spoken toast: DO • Prepare what you want to say and practice in advance. • Keep it short and sweet. It’s hard to mess up in 20 seconds. Over 90 seconds and you’re running on too long. • Be sincere. A toast is a chance to recognize a deserving colleague or applaud the team that brought big results. • A smile and good posture will stand out in a good way. DON’TS • Don’t be the person who shares too much information or says something inappropriate. Go easy on the egg nog; too much imbibing can result in a loosened tongue. I’ll never forget the co-worker who repeatedly said to me: “You don’t need to work because your husband is a lawyer.” • Don’t use the company dinner as the time to be the comedienne of the party. Your Tina Fey routine may be hysterical but your coworkers may be rolling their eyes. — Chris Jahnke, www.wellspokenwoman.com DRESSiNg DOS AND DON’TS There are many things to be stressed about this time of the year. One of those need not be what to wear to holiday events. Here are a few simple dos and don’ts to help you add a little sparkle to your professional look.

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DO • Do know the dress code for the event you’re attending. • Do make sure you own a little black dress. It can take you through the holidays, especially with the right accessories. • Do purchase a dressy top that can be worn under a tuxedo jacket or even with jeans and heels. • Do accessorize with something that shimmers and sparkles (think fun jewelry or a great evening bag). DON’TS • Don’t wear sequins head to toe. • Don’t wear bare legs or strappy sandals unless you are celebrating the holidays in warm weather. • Don’t wear any clothing during the holiday season with the following patterns: snowflake, candy cane, Christmas tree or skier. • Don’t wear something that is too low cut, too short, or too tight at the same time. There is a difference between sexy and vulgar. — Style guru Tara Luizzi

Are you looking for a unique opportunity to grow your career in a place where people care? Our employees take pride in providing more than 60,000 residents with high-quality programs and services. A wide array of opportunities are available to suit your passion and experience. You can cultivate your career in a place where staff not only care about the work they do but also the people they work alongside. We have the following employment opportunities available: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

City Manager General Manager, Economic Development Aquatic Instructor (Level 1 & 2) Exercise & Wellness Specialist Customer Service Representatives Starbucks Baristas and Shift Supervisors Fitness Instructors Administrative Officer Senior Long Range Planner Senior Project Manager Utility Engineer Night Shift Caretakers Temporary Payroll Support

For information on these and other current opportunities available at the City of St. Albert please visit our website at www.stalbert.ca/employment or drop by our Human Resources department. Human Resources The City of St. Albert 216, 7 St. Anne Street St. Albert, Alberta T8N 2X4 Fax: (780) 459-1729 Online applications: www.stalbert.ca/employment We wish to express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position but only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

BUSINESS

Canada no tax haven, says Flaherty SUN MEDIA NEWS SERVICES – U.S. Treasury officials are working on a proposal that would make it less onerous for Canadian banks to comply with a new U.S. tax law, Canada’s Finance Minister Jim Flaherty said last week. “They’re trying to work on a more reasonable result for the Canadian banking system. We’re not a tax haven in Canada and the American provisions are really designed to get at people hiding money in tax havens,” Flaherty told reporters in Ottawa on Wednesday, Dec. 7. He said he had “further discussions” with U.S. officials about the regulation known as FATCA, or the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, and was waiting to hear back from them. The FATCA provisions include a requirement by overseas banks to report directly to the Internal Revenue Service about their U.S. clients. “I certainly have the assurance from the secretary of the treasury that the matter is being reviewed, with a view to trying to be accommodative,” he said.

The U.S. Treasury said in October that exemption from the law was not an option. When asked precisely what Ottawa was asking for, Flaherty said: “Some refinement of what information would be required of Canadian financial institutions in order to satisfy the American desire to catch people who are using jurisdictions as tax havens.” Canada already exchanges tax information with its top trade partner and its banks are unhappy about the prospect of a new layer of bureaucracy and reporting that they say will raise their costs. In June, the private banking arm of HSBC said it would stop offering services to U.S. residents outside the United States because of the cost of complying with the rule. Some Swiss bankers are advising clients to steer clear of U.S. securities ahead of the FATCA law coming into effect. FATCA will require overseas banks to report U.S. clients with more than $50,000 in assets to the IRS, or withhold 30 per cent of the interest, dividend

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Federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty addresses the House of Commons on Wednesday, Dec. 7. Flaherty hopes to make it easier for Canadian banks to comply with a new tax law in the United States. and investment payments due those clients and send the money to the U.S. tax department. FATCA also imposes financial reporting requirements on Americans living in Canada, including a large number of AmericanCanadian dual citizens. Prompted by growing

concern over hefty penalties for late filing of U.S. income tax returns by dual citizens, the IRS released a statement recently suggesting it may be lenient on the issue. “We are looking at putting out information in the near future about how the current law and rules work with respect to late filed income tax

returns and late-filed FBARs (report of foreign bank and financial accounts). We believe this will significantly allay concerns,” the IRS statement said. “We continue to look closely at ways to minimize burden on dual citizens and strike the right balance in administering the U.S. tax laws.”

Men, women disagree on best ways to save: survey

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SUN MEDIA NEWS SERVICES – Men and women agree on the definition of financial success but disagree on how to get there, a new survey says. Both sexes agree that saving enough for a comfortable retirement is the biggest measure of financial success (70 per cent of women and 66 per cent of men). Being debt-free (67 per cent and 62 per cent, respectively) and being able

to pay bills on time (67 per cent and 61 per cent, respectively) were also high on the list. But while men see paying off credit cards in full as a priority, women think it’s better not to load them up in the first place: 67 per cent said they would rather postpone a major purchase than buy it on credit. Men also said contributing to an

RRSP is important, while women think sticking to a budget is key. Only 20 per cent of respondents said being able to afford luxuries like a flashy car or summer home is a measure of success. The survey, conducted online by Environics Research Group, involved 1,000 Canadian women and 500 men aged 45-64.

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Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011

Credit binge over, says top bank boss problems faced by advanced and emerging markets, especially Europe. Canada has an opportunity to And without their cocontinue to prosper as the global operation, Carney warned, the financial system goes through world’s gross domestic product a difficult period of correction, could see a $7 trillion US drop Bank of Canada governor Mark within five years. Carney says. While the measures European But the recovery here faces authorities set out last week in both domestic and outside Brussels to tighten budget and threats, Carney cautioned deficit rules address some of the Monday in a speech to the continent’s problems, Carney Empire Club of Canada. predicts a long and difficult road “Opportunities are only to recovery. valuable if seized,” he said, That road includes restoring offering a stark warning that Europe’s competitiveness through Canadian household debt is fiscal and structural reforms, spinning out of which Carney control. said would Canadian rest on the families have shoulders of its taken on more governments, debt than citizens and their British businesses. Mark Carney and American “A sustained Bank of Canada governor counterparts. process of Carney relative wage also slapped Canadian firms adjustment will be necessary, on the wrist for failing to boost implying large declines in living productivity or to move fast standards for a period in up to enough into emerging markets. one-third of the euro area,” he Calling the decades-long credit said. binge “decisively over,” Carney Mishandling the de-leveraging, argued the world economy is however, could cause disorderly heading into a long phase of defaults, large transfers of wealth wrangling down its debt and and social unrest, Carney said. fixing its balance sheets. Later, Carney told reporters “The direction may be clear, but it’s important not to confuse the magnitude and abruptness the current global financial of the process are not,” he told turbulence with what’s necessary the Toronto audience. “It could to build a resilient economic be long and orderly or it could be system. sharp and chaotic.” “There are people who argue Carney — who also heads the now is not the time to build Financial Stability Board, the capital in banks that have no international banking watchdog capital,” he said. “Well, this is — painted a grim picture of the foolish.”

JESSICA MURPHY Sun Media News Services

Canadians in for small break at checkouts SUN MEDIA NEWS SERVICES – Canadians can expect to get a bit of a break when they go grocery shopping in the new year. Food prices will still go up, but only slightly, University of Guelph economists Sylvain Charlebois and Francis Tapon said in a forecast released Monday. Food prices will increase, on average, about two per cent in 2012, they said. In 2011, dairy and egg prices went up 11 per cent, while fresh vegetables rose 10 per cent, baked goods jumped seven per cent, fresh fruit climbed six per cent and meat increased five per cent. The two men predicted an overall increase of five to seven per cent in 2011. “The last few years have been challenging for Canadians with less means,” Charlebois said. “Expected food price relief may come as good news for these families in 2012.” Competition in food retailing — including the addition of Target stores in Canada — will help keep food prices down, they said. As well, consumers will be more picky about where they shop and continue to look for the best price. Charlebois and Tapon based their predictions on factors including climate, economic risks, energy costs, currencies and trade, and Canada’s food distribution and retail landscape. They also considered domestic fundamentals such as consumer debt and inflation.

“Opportunities are only valuable if seized.”

To advertise in the St. Albert Leader’s weekly Business page, contact Blake at blake@stalbertleader.com or 780-460-1035

BIZ BYTES • St. Albert in MSN’s Top 10 A story on the MSN Money website published on Thursday, Dec. 8, has declared St. Albert as one of the 10 best cities to invest in Canada. In part, the story reads: “You might not have heard of St. Albert, Alta., the little area in the northwest corner of Edmonton, but it offers great investment potential. The suburban city is enjoying the spin-off of Edmonton’s current economic boom, which will only get better once the city’s Ring Road is completed. It will translate into better airport access, more jobs, more commercial and residential growth, and a flourishing economy for a town that has a generally well-educated population. The town has also developed a major retail centre for the northern region, and will continue to draw new companies.” The entire story can be found at http://money. ca.msn.com/investing/top-10-deals-in-canadianreal-estate#image=5

• City about to get Twisted It looks like St. Albert will be getting a little twist in the New Year as the company Twisted Yogurt announced on Twitter that they are planning to open a store in St. Albert in February or March 2012. They promote customers exploring their creative side with eight flavors and 50 toppings to enjoy. The company already has one location in Sherwood Park and two in south Edmonton. Visit their website at www.twistedyogurt.com.

• Get Fabulous on Sunday The folks at Fabulous Furballs have a special guest this Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. as Santa Claus is making an appearance for photos with pets for $10 each. All proceeds raised will be going to the Edmonton Humane Society. All photos will be emailed to customers within a week of the shoot. No appointment necessary. The St. Albert business specializes in — you guessed it — making you and your pet feel fabulous, especially during the holiday season, when they are open seven days a week. The store is located at 3516 Tudor Glen. Got a local business story to share in our Biz Bytes section?

Call 460-1035 or email glenn@stalbertleader.com

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