Valley Ridge’s Community Newsletter November 2011 The

Available online at www.calgaryarea.com/nw/valleyridge/valleyridge.htm

2010 Winners PaskapooPaskapoo SlopesSlopes DevelopmentDevelopment PPrPrroposalsoposals

LEAFLEAF UpdateUpdate

Crestmont Christmas Fairr,, NoNovv. 4 and 5 NOVEMBER 2011 3 From the Editor

As I write this, I’m crunching on a fall I expect my neighbours might not be apple, watching the last of the golden too appreciative of being soaked first leaves drift to the ground and packing thing in the morning as they head out my bags. I’m off to see the glorious to their cars if I tried that trick on my The Valley Breeze fall foliage on the eastern side of the flower beds. is the official newsletter United States. A few years ago I “did” for Valley Ridge and the the fall foliage of the Maritimes with Well, I better get outside and roll up Valley Ridge Community Association. my parents. Alas, Prince Edward the hoses and get the gardens bedded It is published 12 times a year by Suburban Island and Nova Scotia have us beat, down before I leave, because, sure Journals Publishing and delivered by Canada Post. The Valley Breeze is also available for hands down, when it comes to painting shooting, there’ll snow on the ground pickup at Valley Ridge Pharmacy. An the leaves in rainbows of colours. when I get back. electronic version of The Valley Breeze can be viewed at www.calgaryarea.com/nw/ Having already “done” the golden/ valleyridge/valleyridge.htm. Questions orange fall foliage of Calgary – didn’t – J’Anne Claridge regarding article / photo contributions should be directed to the editor at valleybreeze@vrca. we have a spectacular Indian summer? Editor, Valley Breeze info or 403-220-1826. Submissions (300 – I’ve got to go find more leaves - fall words or less) are due by the 5th of the preceding month. Questions regarding is far too short here! advertising should be directed to Suburban Journals Publishing at phil@suburbanjournals. This year we’re going to see how the ca or call Phil at 403-660-7324. rural Americans do fall. Trundling Please note, the information and opinions in down country roads in Vermont and this newsletter are subject to change, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the New Hampshire with a side trip to publisher, the editor, or the VRCA Board of Niagara Falls will have us crossing Directors. more things off our bucket list. Valley Ridge now on Facebook! Disclaimer: Any advertisements, home Meanwhile back home in Calgary Check it out at businesses, babysitters and nannies, or other parties listed in The Valley Breeze should it’s time to rake up our leaves and www.facebook.com/ not be interpreted as recommendations or compost our pumpkins. I’d love to valleyridgecalgary endorsements by the VRCA, the editor or the publisher. plant some spring bulbs, but just yesterday saw a rabbit munching the Get up to date community info Re-publication of the Valley Breeze Newsletter plants in my front garden. Do I dare whenever you need it. (in whole or part) requires the express written permission of the article’s author and the risk the heartbreak of chewed up tulips publisher. Please direct re-publication requests next spring? to [email protected]. VALLEY IDGE We live in the big city yet moose and VR R deer, rabbits and coyotes wander our streets and savage our gardens. Out Valley Ridge in BC my parents have an infra-red Community Association motion detector that sprays water each time the deer approach their gardens. Board meetings are held every fourth Wednesday of the month at The Lodge at Valley Ridge starting at 7:00 p.m.

VRCA Planning Committee Please contact David McCarrel for the next meeting date, time and place: [email protected]. Residents are welcome to attend either of these meetings. THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 5 Letters to the Fence Update

Editor The Fence Committee has been discount. Consider supporting this working hard to complete the staining business when you renovate your Dear Editor, of the west soccer field fence boards interior or exterior, as they have Valley Ridge is an attractive and that face the TransCanada. This supported our Community endeavours. pleasant community. Kudos to project was difficult to organize due the people in the LEAF program. to many rained-out days and general I would like to take the time to thank Valley Ridge would be an even more lack of volunteers for this project, Lynn and Dale Barnes for their attractive and pleasant community if but we are pleased to announce that significant efforts at re-staining and we could reduce the noise pollution the outside surface was completed on repairing the fence. Also, thanks coming from the railroad. October 1st. Loose or broken boards goes out to VRCA President, John - Dave T were repaired for the second time this DeRinzy; Neil Younger; Margaret season, with the exception of a largish Keith-Chester; Mark Stainthorpe and hole that is currently accommodating to Greg Achtemichuk. We appreciate dog-walkers. It is obvious that the your efforts on this project. 5th Annual corridor is a favoured walking area, so the decision is to install a gate of The Fence Committee wishes to Crestmont some sort. Due to a shortage of time acknowledge the Blue Condo complex by both our volunteers and weather- at the corner of Valley Ridge Blvd Christmas Fair related, the building of this gate will and Valley Ridge Drive. They have likely not begin until next Spring. painted their outside fences in the recommended colour, and have done a The interior of the fence will not be fabulous job. Thank you so much for stained this year. It is not visible your hard work and choice of stain! from either the highway or Valley Thanks to all other residents who have Ridge Drive, but when walkers are also chosen to stain their fences this up close, artistic stylings of our local year. graffiti experts are visible. There is also a section of boards that were Any questions or fencing concerns can never stained. All staining supplies be sent to [email protected]. are fundraised via resident donation and labour efforts are supported only - Christa McKegney, by resident volunteers. We hope to Chair of the Fence Committee organize staining of the interior next Save the Date! season, depending upon volunteer Friday, November 4 from 4 pm to 9 assistance. pm and Saturday, November 5 from 10 am to 4 pm A reminder to our residents: Get Involved! If the outside of your fence (side or 12400 - Crestmont Boulevard SW backyard) faces either a pathway or Looking for a way to get involved? (Crestmont Residents’ Hall) a green space, YOU are responsible The VRCA is looking for a new for maintaining both sides of that Membership Director, effective Admission is free with a donation to fence, according to City bylaws. The immediately. The role consists of the Salvation Army or the Calgary preferred colour is: Solid Cedar by updating the database as members Foodbank. Door prizes! SuperDeck, which is available at a join, sending out membership significant discount at General Paint emails with upcoming community Sponsored by Peak Business in Nosehill. Simply show the cashier information, and assisting with ways Elements, Discovery Toys and Qualico your driver’s license or other proof of to increase our membership base. Calgary. For more information: www. address to receive your discount. Anyone interested should email crestmontchristmasfair.ca or info@ You may purchase ANY paint/stain/ [email protected] with their crestmontchristmasfair.ca. supplies from General Paint for a details. THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 7 LEAF Update

The 2011 season is now complete with The spraying of trees is NOT in the many goals attained this season. scope of LEAF, but still included in Snow Removal The community received the following this article for resident information. landscaping items: Checklist • Watering of medians and flower At the time of writing this article, beds 2 days/week; LEAF is negotiating contractors to Get prepared for the • Aerating and fertilizing of public add paving stones to the edges of the season of snow with grasses; perennial shrub beds near the traffic tips from The Home • Top-soiling and dressing to both circle. We hope that this work will be Depot Canada: soccer fields; completed by the time you read this • The first planter order of 4 circular article! In addition, a fall clean-up Outfit your car to planters for the traffic circle, and 4 should now have been performed. stay a step ahead: square planters for the medians at LEAF wishes to encourage residents You've likely learned that mittens are the 4-way stop; with further landscaping ideas to not the best option for brushing off a • A second order of 8 more square email us with your thoughts. Perhaps snow-laden car. Keeping a heavy-duty planters, which were available in there were shrub beds that could snow brush or emergency telescopic early July; use more attention next year, or you shovel in your trunk during the entire • Shrub bed maintenance, with have an idea for a placement of a winter season is a good idea. specific attention given to island new shrub bed, etc. Please send us beds; your ideas, and we will do our best to Minimize heavy lifting: A tough job • Regular weekly or bi-weekly accommodate them. can be made easier with the right snow mowing (depending on the area and thrower. Opting for a snow shovel on a weather) and weekly garbage pick- As always, please email any LEAF- wheel, such as the manual Sno Wovel, up of community garbage bins; related concerns or questions and cuts down the heavy lifting. Another • Annual flowers in planters and we will endeavour to answer them great option are the specially designed planter beds at the 4-way stop; and sufficiently. Please read LEAF’s ergonomic snow shovels. A bonus is • Herbicide spraying for weed FAQs, located on the VRCA website that there are no fumes or noise—it's control. and in the October Breeze edition for a good choice for the environment as clarification purposes as to LEAF’s well as your neighbours. LEAF was also able to negotiate the scope. placement of three new garbage bins Take action before temperatures in our community! We are excited Email: [email protected]. drop: Remove snow right after it has to announce that one bin will be fallen—before it has a chance to melt placed near the entrance to the Valley - Christa McKegney, and freeze or be packed down. Woods area, in the natural area near Chair of Beautification the pathway. One bin will be placed Keep family and pets safe: Keep approximately halfway down Valley your snow-covered garden and lawn Creek Road. The last will be placed safe from harmful chemicals this win- near the east end of the west soccer ter. Try a de-icer such as Eco Traction, fields. There is no other appropriate made from all-natural volcano min- place for garbage bins on the west eral. It provides better traction than side, as there is not sufficient City sand, and doesn't hurt children or pets Park space to place a garbage bin, and if accidentally ingested. it is unlikely that residents will offer up their lawn for that use. Power clearing: Clear the driveway in no time with an electric snow thrower. In addition, residents may have There is a range of styles and sizes to noticed that Urban Forestry was in our suit any budget. Community at the end of September, spraying our trees to rid them of pests. - News Canada, www.homedepot.ca THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 9 VRCA Planning Committee Update

Now that fall is upon us, we felt it distances are maintained from both yet received any detailed development was timely to provide a community Valley Ridge Boulevard and Valley plans from either party. update regarding three planning Ridge Park. issues of interest for Valley Ridge Based on these initial meetings, the residents. First, some news regarding Paskapoo Slopes Development key concerns identified by the Planning the committee’s membership. We Proposals Committee thus far are: are pleased to announce that the Earlier this summer representatives • that the City planning process committee’s membership has from two developers met with the ensures that both proposals are expanded with the addition of two VRCA Planning Committee. The complimentary and fully integrated; new members: Roger Horvath and developers each represent separate • ensuring that incremental traffic Mark Simpson. The VRCA Planning groupings of property / land owners can be adequately handled by committee now has six members regarding the lands formerly known modifications to the Valley Ridge and is led by Dave McCarrel, VRCA as Chapel Grove, situated south of Boulevard interchange and an Director of Community Planning and the Trans Canada Highway / Valley adequate, future transportation Development, who is joined by existing Ridge Blvd interchange, and existing network; members: Michael Beamish, Onno businesses: The Wedding Chapel • and that any development along the DeVries and Grant Knowles. and Victory Village. The area under Paskapoo Slopes be restricted so proposal includes the lands situated as to preserve the existing natural Cove Properties Condominium in the central portion (within the beauty and sensitivity of this unique Development dashed line) of the Calgary West Area area. Over the summer months, residents Structure Plan (ASP) shown on the may have noticed that a temporary sales accompanying map taken from the Both development proposals involve trailer, owned by Cove Properties, was Calgary West ASP document. The a mix of commercial, residential and installed near the Valley Ridge Golf community of Crestmont is situated office development. Costco is not part Course clubhouse, near the corner of in the western portion of the Calgary of either proposal, however Loblaws / Valley Ridge Boulevard and Valley West ASP while the future, southern Superstore is represented as an anchor Ridge Park. Cove Properties is extension of Stoney Trail forms its tenant for one of the proposals, as proposing to build a 40 unit condo and eastern boundary. Both meetings were Loblaws is a current property owner 15 unit townhouse development on the high level opening discussions and the within the eastern portion of this area. corner of Valley Ridge Boulevard and VRCA Planning Committee has not continued on next page Valley Ridge Park extending towards the current golf course parking lot and the 18th green. While Cove Properties is distributing information and their website (www.coveproperties.ca/projects/current/ vrestates.php) states that possession dates will be as soon as the summer of 2012, we wanted to inform residents that Cove Properties has not been issued any development permit for their proposal by the City of Calgary. Cove has not yet contacted the the VRCA Planning Committee to review their plans. Based on available information obtained from Cove’s sales centre, our key concerns at this point are that Cove’s proposed condo development be complimentary to the existing condominium development across the street at 11642 Valley Ridge Park and that consistent building setback THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 11 Planning Committee Update continued In Our City At this point, it is very early in the process both with the City planning and approval process. Any development A Message From Your MLA of this area is years away, however, we wanted to advise residents that Community Spirit Program needs that are not met by market discussions are underway. An extensive Donation Grant housing. Some may need affordable community consultation process Are you involved with an Alberta housing, while others may be will be required prior to any needed non-profit charitable organization? Do homeless and need help not just amendments to the Calgary West ASP you donate to these organizations? If finding but keeping housing. A going before City Council for approval, the answer is yes to either question, 2011 research paper reported that including detailed development plans. you’ll want to know that applications veterans may become homeless are now being accepted for the many years after their release from Further updates on the Paskapoo Community Spirit Program donation the military—11 years on average. Slopes Development Proposals will be grant. Eligible charities and non- (Source: Final Report, The Experience provided in subsequent Valley Breeze profit organizations can receive up to of Homelessness Among Canadian articles as the issue evolves. $25,000 per year (to a maximum of Forces and Allied Forced Veterans). $50,000 over three years) as long as Today, there are an estimated 20 to 25 Please contact Dave McCarrel at david. they’re incorporated and/or registered veterans who are homeless in Calgary [email protected] with any questions in Alberta and have been operating and about as many in Edmonton. The you may have regarding this article. for a minimum of one year. It must Alberta government offers several also demonstrate it has received a housing support programs that can - Submitted by the VRCA Planning minimum total of $1,000 in eligible assist these veterans. A variety of Committee cash donations from individual housing programs offer cheaper rent Albertans over a completed 12-month than average market rates, and the period. Applications are being 10-year plan to end homelessness Remembering accepted until December 31. Please uses a Housing First approach to help visit www.communityspiritprogram.ca homeless veterans find housing and the Unidentified for more information. stay housed.

Almost 20,000 of the 80,000 Canadi- Alberta Fulfills Commitment to Throughout November and December, ans who died in World War I have no Support 11,000 Housing Units please stop by my constituency office identifiable grave. Those who could More than 22,000 Albertans will now to donate any non-perishable food be identified as Canadian have grave- have a place to call home, thanks to items to be distributed to low income stones inscribed "A Canadian Soldier the province exceeding its goal to veterans. of the Great War—known unto God." support 11,000 affordable housing units by 2012. Details on the more Support Our Troops In Ottawa at the front of the Canadian than 11,000 housing units are on the My sincere heartfelt thanks to all our National War Memorial we also have Housing and Urban Affairs website at: troops. You are in our thoughts each The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It www.housing.alberta.ca. and every day. is a sarcophagus which holds the re- mains of an unidentified Canadian sol- Housing for Veterans – Alana DeLong dier who died in France during World Though veterans are often thought War I. The remains of the Unknown of as those who served in the World Soldier were repatriated from France Wars, there are many other younger on May 25, 2000. veterans who have served in locations An unidentified body of a soldier as a such as Cyprus, the Persian Gulf, or symbol of all war dead was first used Bosnia. Ten years after the attacks in Great Britain in Westminster Abbey. on the World Trade Centre, many Other countries followed. Canadian Armed Forces members have also served in Afghanistan. In - Jean Andrews some cases, veterans have housing THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 13 Our Schools

St. Sylvester Varsity Acres For those of you that are new to Varsity Acres School, we offer the opportunity for parents to help find day homes in their area. If you know of a place, or have a place that you offer with before and after school care, please feel free to advertise on the Wow, where is the time going! We welcome you back to what is school notice-board – ask at the school Another month of school behind us, now the full swing of school updates, office. and it was a month full of fun and and activities, along with a regular learning! October included such monthly update of what is happening Our next School Council meeting is events as Picture day, Family Photo at Varsity Acres. Our school council Tuesday Nov. 15, 2011 (7-8:30 pm). Night, swimming lessons, and some is working continuously to improve Please bring a parent/friend with wonderful field trips including a communication between parents and the you – it is full of useful information, Grade 6 trip to Jumping Pound Field, school, and in doing so, have set up a and a great opportunity to share CPaws Presentation, Inglewood, and separate school council link. The link your ideas and hear more about what the Wordfest Author visit. As well, we can be found on the main school page, is happening with the growth and kicked off our St. Vincent de Paul food along with a blog available for people to development of our school. band drive this month. communicate with others. Please check the website and newsletter this month The days are starting to cool off We would like to take this time to and continue to help us to grow our now – so please keep an eye on thank all students, staff and families community spirit. If you are unable to your child(ren’s) belongings – coats, who raised over $450.00 during our access through the school link, visit us hats and mitts – make sure they are annual Terry Fox Walk and Run! at www.varsityacresschoolcouncil.ca. bringing them home each day. Let’s all try to avoid too many items in the École St. Sylvester will continue to Education is critical to many of us, and lost and found boxes by labelling each accept registrations for students new to we all as parents want to find ways to item with your child’s name, including the communities within the boundaries help be part of our child(ren)’s growth. lunch kits. Remember any unclaimed of the school. A Baptismal certificate One way is to volunteer at the school, items are passed onto charities later in is expected, however if you are not and another way is to be part of the the school year. Catholic, please call the school and school council. We have opportunities talk to the office staff (403-500-2063) for those of you that are interested in We hope you will visit the school and as space may be available for residents being part of the school council and part remember to read our school website/ of Silver Springs. of the school volunteer list. Please feel newsletters which can be found on free to contact a school council member http://schools.cbe.ab.ca/b238/news. Feel free to visit our school web site to find out more. htm ). NB: You can also sign up for at www.cssd.ab.ca/schools/stsylvester the RSS Feed on the website – a great to learn more about our school. École October calendar: Div 1(Gr. 1-3) – way to keep notified on school news St. Sylvester School is a place where swimming at Sir Winston Churchill and surveys. For those of you not caring, respect, responsibility, trust, Pool; various presentations for Gr. 3 familiar with this option, an e-mail is and family are taught and lived! classes such as Science Network and sent to you automatically with new Bats; and an author visit by Wendy updates in the CBE and at your school. Here is hoping that everyone had a Berner and Karen Gummo. Gymnastics wonderful Thanksgiving and a safe started for all grades and will continue See next month’s community and Happy Halloween! May God to approximately mid November. Once newsletter for more school updates. Bless all of our students, teachers, and again, Treat of the Month and Special families! Lunch started in October. Photo Day - Clare Percival - Carrie Morin also happened – a proud day for many Varsity Acres School Council children. THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 15 Our Schools In Our City Our Cookie Dough and Muffin Mix fundraiser is winding up. If Hawkwood you want to order Treasure Mills Leaf and cookie dough or muffin mix for your Holiday baking, contact us before Pumpkin November 7 at HawkwoodSC@gmail. Composting com. Hawkwood School appreciates the community’s support in our Program Our second Parent Information fundraising efforts. Session of the year will be held Wednesday Nov. 9th, 6:30 pm in For the first time ever, we are offering September 30 - November 13, 2011 the Library. We will be discussing a Mad Science Noon Hour Program • Birthplace Forest at Silver Provincial Achievement Tests. We for grades 1, 2 and 3. This eight week Springs Park 37 Silver Springs will look at Hawkwood’s results and program is a fun interactive science Drive N.W. discuss the value of standardized tests. experience! Watch for news on the • Bowness at 7937 43 Avenue N.W. information assembly coming in Brown bag it this year! Do you have some unwanted books December! looking for a good home? Hawkwood We encourage you to bring your School is holding its Winter Book Fair Dates to Remember: leaf and pumpkin waste to drop-off from Tuesday Nov. 29th to Dec. 2nd. • Nov. 7th:– Booster Juice Day locations using large paper yard waste We are gladly accepting any books • Nov. 9th:- Parent Information bags. These bags can be purchased at you wish to donate (with exception of Session many local yard and garden retailers. textbooks and encyclopaedias). All • Mid-Nov.: – Direct Donation The City composts the leaves and books can be dropped off in the front Campaign (donations over $25 are pumpkins, and uses the material to foyer of Hawkwood School during eligible for a tax receipt) enrich the soil in green spaces around school hours. • Nov. 18th:– Arby’s Fun Lunch Calgary. It is an easy way to help • Nov. 29 - Dec. 2: - Winter Book reduce the greenhouse gas emissions Jacket Racket is back and runs until Fair created when yard waste and other Nov. 14th! Jacket Racket is a program organic materials breakdown in that has provided clean, gently used Questions about Hawkwood Calgary landfills. It also helps reduce winter outwear to Calgary children School Council? Contact us at loads, allowing garbage collection since 1988. Donations to this program [email protected] or “Like” crews to stay on schedule during peak can be dropped off at the School. us on Facebook at www.facebook. times of the year. Items of need include: snow pants, com/hawkwoodschoolcouncil. coats, toques, mittens, scarves etc. The annual Leaf and Pumpkin Composting Program is just one of the many ways people can reduce waste, reuse and recycle to help Calgary achieve the goal of recycling 80 percent of its waste by the year 2020. We also encourage you to compost leaves and pumpkins yourself. After all, leaves and pumpkins are excellent material for your backyard composter. For more information, visit our composting area. THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 17 In Our City Bowness Library Join us on the evening of Friday, November 4 at the Central Library as WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park: we launch One Book, One Calgary Building Legacies for Tomorrow’s Heroes 2011, “The Cellist of Sarajevo” by Steven Galloway.

WinSport Canada, the legacy enabling our bobsleigh/skeleton and Programs for Kids organization from the Calgary ’88 luge athletes to have more prep time • Man in the Moon: Nov. 12. Winter Olympics who owns and leading into their world cup season, • Christmas Puppet Show: Nov. 23. operates Canada Olympic Park, has the relocation of the National Sports been busy this past off season with School to Canada Olympic Park, the Programs for Adults numerous upgrades to its iconic addition of a brand new high speed • The Internet – Part 1: An facility. The main purpose of these chair lift and upgrades to the ski introduction. Nov. 9. upgrades is to propel more Canadian jumping training centre! • Law at Your Library for Seniors: athletes onto the international podium, Personal Directives & Power of and hopefully encourage more The reason for all this effort is Attorney. Nov. 23. Calgarians to get actively involved in simple. Leading-edge facilities help • Become Part of a Story: Art on winter sport. our elite athletes reach podiums; the Go and Words on the Move. creating positive role models who Check out these journals and share This past season has seen millions of inspire communities across Canada your thoughts on what makes a dollars invested into new upgrades that and encourage participation in sport community. have our Canadian athletes grinning – especially for young Canadians. • The Philharmonic at Your Library: from ear to ear. These include the WinSport Canada is providing the Monday, Dec. 12. 2:00 – 3:00 pm. No completion of the new world class next generation of Canadian Olympic registration required. 4 rink ice complex that will act as heroes with the best opportunity to Hockey Canada’s new home, upgrades discover, develop and excel at winter to the hill’s large half pipe (making sport. For more information on it 30 meters longer, and 2 degrees WinSport and Canada Olympic Park, Crowfoot Library steeper) matching the exact specs please visit www.winsportcanada.ca. Programs for Children & Teens our athletes will face at the 2014 • Storytime Birthdays: For children turn- Sochi Winter Olympics, 30 meters WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park is ing 3 – 7 years old. Call 403-221-4129. of height and 65,000 cubic meters of giving you the chance to win a pair of • Drop-in Family Storytime: Sat. Sep. 3 – land fill have been added to the East lift tickets! All you need to do is email Dec. 24, 10:30 am – 11:00 am; ages 2 – 5 side of the hill which now qualify [email protected] with your with a parent/caregiver. it for the internationally recognized Reason to Ride at COP! Winners will • Drop-in Gaming: Nov. 14, 11:00 am – competition standard for Alpine be selected on opening day – Friday, 12:30 pm. Slalom, the opening of the sledding November 18th. • Family Movie: Nov. 14, 2:00 pm – track a full month earlier in the season 4:00 pm. • Teen Gaming Tournament: Nov. 27, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm. Programs for Adults • One Book, One Calgary: Read and reflect on Steven Galloway’s novel ‘The Cellist of Sarajevo’. See Naomi Lewis on Nov. 6, 2:00 pm. • Scenes of Sarajevo Today: Nov. 20, 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm. Visit www.calgarypubliclibrary.com for more information on these programs. THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 19

per day). Bare pavement standard Lethbridge. By restricting vehicle parking Alderman's Report applies. on the major roads and bus routes, the City can quickly and effectively remove Snow Routes coming to Calgary http://www.calgary.ca/Transportation/ snow from curb to curb. This would Calgarians have asked for better safety Roads/Documents/snow_ice_control/ eliminate several problems, such as snow and improved snow clearing on City snow_and_ice_control_sanding_map_ building up beside parked cars and being streets and Council has listened. Council p1.pdf moved back onto the road, and reduced approved the release of funds to improve road widths due to parked cars and Priority Two Snow and Ice Control (SNIC) levels “wind-rows”. of service during the second half of the • Designated streets with volumes of 2011 program and have expanded the 5,000 to 19,999 vehicles per day. Plowing typically commences when 5 snow fence program from a total of • Traffic lights and controlled crosswalks. cm (2 inches approximately) of snow has two to four kilometres of snow fence • Designated emergency routes (adjacent fallen. A parking ban will be in effect for for the next three years. Council also to hospitals and police and fire stations.) 72 hours on snow event days. A “snow asked Administration to develop parking • Roadways which facilitate marked, on- event” is declared and announced through restrictions on Priority 1 and Priority street bike lanes. the media and other communications. 2 routes to be put into effect during • Problem areas. Bare pavement standard Citizens will be required to immediately 2011/2012 winter storm events. applies. remove vehicles from snow routes.

Priority One http://www.calgary.ca/Transportation/ Snow route parking restrictions will not • Streets in the Central Business District Roads/Documents/snow_ice_control/ only help the City remove snow from with traffic volumes exceeding 8,000 snow_and_ice_control_sanding_map_ major traffic corridors more effectively, vehicles per day (4 Ave. S to 12 Ave. S p2.pdf but will also enable crews to start snow and 14 St. W to 6 St. E); and clearing on Priority 3 and 4 routes faster. Snow route parking restrictions are not a • Designated routes on high-traffic- This will benefit all Calgarians and will new concept. In fact, they are currently in volume arterials (currently based on help make travel a little safer this winter. effect in other cities like Edmonton and traffic volumes of 20, 000 plus vehicles - Dale Hodges THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 21 In Our City

Tickets, admission or registration may be required for events. Event details are believed correct as of Events In and Around Calgary press time but may change at any time.

Fire & Ice: The 2011 Honorary Alexandra Elagina and Andre Ustimov Address: Nov. 2, 7:00 pm Southern dancing Andre Litvinov’s bold Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Geared choreography. www.epcorcentre.org at informing people of all ages about earth science issues from the past, Christmas In Inglewood: Nov. 17 present and future. www.cspg.org/ and 19, Inglewood. Horse-drawn events/events-honorary.cfm sleigh rides, Christmas Tree Quest, live music, shopping deals, discounts, GIRAF: Nov. 2 – 6, Plaza Theatre. holiday specials, giveaways and more! Celebrates independent, underground www.calgary-inglewood.com animation from across Canada and the 18, Heritage Park Historic Village. world. Presented by the Quickdraw Fall Grape Escape: Nov. 18 – 19, Enjoy the wonder and charm of an Animation Society. www.giraffest.ca BMO Centre. Come experience some old fashioned Christmas. Fun for the great wines, beers and spirits. whole family! www.heritagepark.ca SnowFest: Nov. 4 – 6, Canada www.coopwinesandspirits.com/events Olympic Park. It's all about winter... Sight Night: Nov. 19. Night time featuring several exhibitors and Marda Loop Justice Film Festival: run featuring an 8K fun run, 3K fun activities. www.winsportcanada.ca Nov. 18 – 20, River Park Church. walk, 8K team run and 3K team walk. Fosters awareness and understanding Proceeds support the Alberta Sports Run Without Borders: Nov. 5, of injustices and indignities and Recreation Association for the Eau Claire Market. 10K run, 5K run/ and encourages participants the Blind. www.events.runningroom.com walk, 3K individual run/walk and a opportunity to talk about views of the 3K family run/walk. Proceeds go to world. www.justicefilmfestival.ca SantaVision: Nov. 25 – Dec. 23, Doctors Without Borders. www.events. Calgary Zoo. Part of Calgary’s Zoo runningroom.com/site/?raceId=6736 Christmas all through the House: Lights. Talk to Santa live at the North Nov. 19 – 27, Lougheed House. Guests Pole via webcast on a large 108 sq. ft. The 50 Plus Living Show: Nov. 5 – will be fascinated by the history of jumbotron. www.santavision.ca 6, BMO Centre. A one stop shop for Lougheed House; marvel at the unique information, resources, products, fun and breathtaking Christmas designs, Santa Shuffle Calgary: Dec. 3, Eau and services for Baby Boomers & and rejoice in numerous Christmas Claire Market. 5 km Fun Run or 1 km Seniors. www.50pluslivingshow.com activities. www.lougheedhouse.com Elf Walk as an individual, family team or corporate team. In support of The Moscow Ballet's Romeo & Juliet: Once Upon A Christmas at Heritage Salvation Army's Christmas Appeal. Nov. 15 – 16, Jack Singer Concert Park: Nov. 19 – 20, Nov. 26 – 27, www.runningroom.com/hm/inside. Hall. Features critically acclaimed Dec. 3 – 4, Dec. 10 – 11, Dec. 17 – php?id=3194 THE VALLEY BREEZE NOVEMBER 2011 23 VALLEY RIDGE NOTICE BOARD

BABYSITTER LIST: Debbie Burke has a list of eligible babysitters in the neighbourhood. New babysitters, please call Debbie to add your name to the list as many of our senior babysitters are retiring. Parents, please feel free to contact Debbie if you need a babysitter. Debbie can be reached at 403-286-5286 or [email protected]. MOM AND TOT LIST: Connect with your neighbours and arrange play dates for your children. For more information, contact Michelle Adams at [email protected]. ODD JOBS LIST: Due to the overwhelming popularity of the Babysitter List, the VRCA now keeps a list for Miscellaneous/Odd Jobs such as snow shovelling, dog walking, pet sitting, fence painting, etc. If you are interested in being added to the list, or finding someone who can help you with your odd jobs, please contact Debbie Burke at 403-286-5286 or [email protected]. Debbie will continue to screen people asking for the list to ensure they are Valley Ridge or Crestmont residents.

Valley Ridge Motorheads

A casual monthly get together of automobile enthusiasts. 7:30 pm, Tuesday, November 8 at Van Gogh’s Grill and Bar For more information, contact Jim Thornton at 403-287-9818 or [email protected]

Ads are $10 per month. There is a 40 word maximum per ad. Payment is required in advance in the form of cheque payable to “VRCA”. PLEASE drop off or mail in care of the Valley Breeze Assistant Editor, 117 Valley Creek Place NW, T3B 5V1. All proceeds will go to the Valley Ridge Facilities Fund. Please contact Charlene Randles at 403-669-4154 or [email protected] for more information. Deadline is the 1st of the previous month.

FORGET GIRLS NIGHT OUT, HAVE A SNOW REMOVAL, WINDOW CLEANING CLUTTER GETTING YOU DOWN? NEED GIRLS NIGHT IN! Host a Jockey clothing party and CHRISTMAS LIGHTS by Squeegee HELP GETTING ORGANIZED? Let a and earn amazing hostess rewards. Extremely Brothers. Prompt, reliable and affordable. professional home stager and organizer help you comfortable and machine washable! Invite your Satisfaction guaranteed. References available. Call reduce clutter and de-stress your life. I can help friends and I’ll do the rest! Call me to book your Steeve for information and pricing at 403-383- with paint colors and room design too. Free party today! Tracy at 403-695-2223 or www. 4309 or email [email protected]. estimates, reasonable rates. Call Charlene at myjockeyp2p.ca/tracyhodgson. 403-669-4154 or email [email protected]. MATH TUTOR (Grades 1-12) Certified ARE YOU LOOKING FOR QUALITY PHOTOGRAPHER - for all your weddings, mathematics teacher with 25 years of teaching CHILDCARE? Your child deserves it! I offer engagements, anniversaries and other special experience. Math tutoring, SAIT Prep., study healthy homemade lunches, clean and safe events. Valley Ridge resident. Husband and wife skills, homework support and organizational smoke-free home and fun activities. Before and team work together to make your day special. skills. Flexible hours, reasonable rates and after school available. I will pick up kids from bus View sample photos at http://photoshare.shaw.ca/ references available upon request. Email Sue at stop. Contact Maryam at 403-202-3664 or gallery/skaugdm/. Email Daryl or Maria at [email protected] for availability or a brochure. [email protected]. [email protected] or call 403-247-3239. PIANO, GUITAR, VOICE, DRUM, VIOLIN, PLUMBING WORK and city certified back FLUTE and THEORY/HARMONY flow device inspections for your in-slab heating. CLOTHING ALTERATION AND REPAIR LESSONS. Certified teachers with many years Need a shower repaired or toilet replaced? Give FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY - Custom design experience and satisfied students. Recitals, exams me a call for advice and reasonable rates. Local and interior décor at Plazebo. Monday to Tuesday and band workshops. Reasonable prices. Gift Valley Ridge Business. Call Bill at 403-288-7710. 7:30 am - 7:30 pm, Wednesday to Friday 7:30 am certificates and music books available. Call Irene - 4 pm and Saturday 11 am to 3 pm. Phone at 403-510-3474 or email [email protected]. 403-617-9372. AMWAY PRODUCTS AND MORE! If you are looking to get your hands on L.O.C., SA8, YOU RELAX, I WILL DO THE WORK! Hi TUPPERWARE. Lifetime warranty. Host a party NUTRLITE, ARTISRY, water treatments, weight my name is Bobbie. I have 30 years experience in and shop for free! Spring catalogue is available loss, energy products or hundreds of other great residential cleaning. I’m meticulous, reliable and now. Please call or email me to book a party, place products delivered right to YOUR door, at super bonded. FREE in-home quotes. Call Bobbie at an order, request a catalogue, or to be added to my pricing call Shelia at 403-460-8321 or visit www. 403-288-8151 or 403-965-8151. sales email. Contact Karen at 403-475-1330 or amway.ca/scheerschmidt. [email protected]. COOL SCHOOL TUTORING for all your academic learning needs: math, reading and AFTER SCHOOL CARE AVAILABLE. writing (Grades 1-8); reading, writing, punctuation Drop-ins welcome. Ideal for children who are and spelling (Grades 1-12). Kathy is a BPE/BEd busing home from Our Lady of Assumption Certified Teacher with 20 years of experience. School, as I pick up my children from the bus stop Email [email protected] or call after school. Reasonable rates. Call Jodi Roberto 403-282-8359 for information. at 403-247-1003. TheVRCA Valley Breeze

VRCA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Plazebo Pauze Local businesses are invited to submit short profile articles President John DeRinzy [email protected] 289-1949 Vice President David St. Louis [email protected] to the Breeze. Content restrictions are minimal – we are Secretary Darcie Nastiuk [email protected] interested in knowing more about the people who invest so Treasurer Jim Hinks [email protected] 288-7181 much time and energy in their businesses at the Plazebo. VRCA DIRECTORS Contact the editors for more information by emailing Community Planning & Development [email protected]. Dave McCarrel [email protected] Community Relations & Communications Michelle Adams [email protected] Just in Case You Didn’t Know… Community Events Christa McKegney [email protected] You can view the current issue of the Valley Breeze electronic Sports Programs file at our publisher’s website: www.suburbanjournals.ca. Devin Wagner [email protected] 532-0521 Also, if you have misplaced a current issue, additional copies Facilities Russ Dickson [email protected] may be picked up at the Valley Ridge pharmacy, Counter Director-at-Large Care. For this month’s electronic edition you can also visit VACANT Director-at-Large www.calgaryarea.com/nw/valleyridge/valleyridge.htm. Kim Holmes-Younger [email protected] Director-at-Large/Membership VRCA Membership Reminder: 2011 & 2012 Memberships On [email protected] Sale Online VALLEY BREEZE NEWSLETTER Membership in the VRCA runs the calendar year, January Editor J’Anne Claridge 220-1826 [email protected] to December. The membership is per household, not per Assistant Editor Charlene Randles 669-4154 individual and one membership covers all individuals living [email protected] at that address, including children. Contact information VALLEY RIDGE LEAF COMMITTEE collected by the VRCA will only be used by the VRCA and [email protected] 286-3421 will not be sold or otherwise distributed. Notices regarding VALLEY RIDGE SOCCER CLUB www.valleyridgesoccer.com upcoming community events may be sent via email. Suzanne Brett Welsh [email protected]

PLAZEBO You can purchase your membership by cheque (see Edward Jones 286-5636 form below) or online at our EventBrite page: http:// Jennifer Noble: Agent, State Farm Insurance 286-7009 Allure Hair Salon and Spa 984-3899 vrcamembership.eventbrite.com. EventBrite accepts Visa, Pachet Assessment and Rehabilitation Services Inc. MasterCard, American Express and PayPal. The receipts www.pachetservices.com 232-1212 provided by the website are all you need as proof of Pizza 73 www.pizza73.com 273-7373 Post Office M-F 8-8, Sat 10-6, Closed Sun/Hol. 603-1359 membership payment. Richard’s Cleaners M-F 7:30am-8pm; Sa 9am-5pm; Su closed 451-7468 Rockstar Tanning 984-2826 SmartMart M-F 6:30a-10p, Sat 7-10, Sun 8-10 247-7677 Your membership helps to fund activities within our Stoney Trail Veterinary Clinic www.stvc.ca 247-2737 community and provides support for VRCA initiatives and Valley Ridge Dental Centre future facilities, making Valley Ridge a better place to live. If www.valleyridgedentalcentre.com 202-2266 Valley Ridge Family Physicians 282-3806 you have any questions, contact Mark (Membership Chair) via 403-640-7848 or email [email protected]. Valley Ridge CounterCare Pharmacy 532-4500 Valley Ridge Wine and Liquor [email protected] 247-0341 Valley Ridge Chiropractic & Wellness Centre www.vrchirowellness.ca 202-1114 Valley Ridge Psychologist: Dr. Tanja Haley I would like to become a member of the www.drtanja.com 669-0005 Valley Ridge Community Association Van Gogh Grill & Bar 288-9664 New q Renewal q Yulia’s Alterations M-Tues 7:30am-7:30pm; W,F 7:30am-4pm 451-7468 Thur 7:30am-6:00pm; Sat 11:00am-3pm ELECTED OFFICIALS Name: ______Alderman, Dale Hodges [email protected] 268-2430 M.L.A., Alana Delong [email protected] 216-5400 Address: ______M.P., Rob Anders [email protected] 292-6666 ______OTHER Calgary Public Library www.calgarypubliclibrary.com Phone: ______Email:______Bowness 221-2022 Crowfoot 221-4122 Century Group www.valleyridgeestates.com Community Liaison Officer Constable Niven 567-6200 Mail membership form & cheque for $35 to Lodge at Valley Ridge www.lodgeatvalleyridge.ca 286-4414 Valley Ridge Community Association Valley Ridge Golf Club www.valleyridgegolf.com 221-9682 C/O Membership Chair 147 Valley Crest Close NW, Calgary, T3B 5X2 Valley Ridge Scout Group Jeff Schaffhauser 283-4993 Please make cheque payable to VRCA E

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