RAT CREEK PRESS AVENUE • DELTON • EASTWOOD • ELMWOOD PARK • PARKDALE-CROMDALE • SPRUCE AVENUE • WESTWOOD EYESSERVING 12,500 COMMUNITY MEMBERS WWW.RATCREEK.ORG OCTOBER 2017 Big changes ahead for INSIDE Northlands to continue focusing on agriculture industry FOOD Shoppers have another option for buying meat >> P2

PROPERTY THEFT Learn ways to protect your garage from thieves >> P3

CHAMPIONS OF AB AVE Read the stories of local business owners >> P5

EDITORIAL Writer Hamdi Issawi discusses why change is positive for Northlands >> P6

By Jan. 1, EEDC will begin managing the EXPO Centre and the City of will close the Coliseum. | Supplied

KATE WILSON EXPO Centre will have its own a memorandum of understand- International,” it stated. “Our orga- staff. ing with Northlands to transition nization is optimistic for the future By Jan. 1, the City of Edmonton The solution of merging the con- Northlands Park to the city by the and will be a provincial leader in will have taken over management of ference centres came from a report end of June 2018, or 30 days after agriculture, food, and events.” the EXPO Centre and permanently requested by city council, in which racing is no longer licensed there. Agreements are in progress for closed the Coliseum. three options for the EXPO Centre The city and Northlands have Northlands to continue hosting FIRE SAFETY In a merger that combines were presented. stated they see positive outcomes for K-Days and Farmfair International Discover why some homes administration and marketing “Either the Shaw Centre would Northlands and surrounding neigh- for the next five years at minimum. are more vulnerable to fire between the Shaw Conference take over EXPO or vice versa. The bourhoods. On Jan. 1, 2018, the city will close than others >> P10 Centre and EXPO Centre, the third option was to have both run “The plan will leverage local the Coliseum and assume responsi- Edmonton Economic Development by a third party,” Caterina said. revitalization initiatives, such as the bility for it. It stated, “The future Corporation (EEDC), an entity Caterina noted the city will assess Avenue Initiative and Borden Park of the building will be considered wholly owned by the city, will begin the outcome of the new arrange- upgrades, to continue improving through the Area Redevelopment managing the two venues on Jan. 1. ment over the next few years. liveability for residents, businesses, planning process.” “Originally we wanted the two “We still have the third party and visitors while also updating the Further engagements and analy- conference centres to cooperate and option,” he said. vision for city-building in the area,” sis are planned for late 2017 and work together. It was in the city’s City council voted to close stated the city’s website. into 2018. The public and city best interest to have them work at a Sept. 13 The Northlands board sees the council can expect a report early together rather than be in competi- council meeting. change as a way to focus more on next year. SHARE & tion,” said Coun. Tony Caterina. “The decision to permanently agri-food innovation. In a Sept. 13 COMMENT ON The merger was announced Aug. close the Coliseum reflects an ongo- press statement, the board asked Kate took up the reporter’s pad and STORIES ONLINE 29, after council heard recommen- ing commitment to use taxpayers’ all involved to respect the impact pen while living in northern Alberta. dations for the EXPO Centre in money responsibly in all questions on its 2,800 employees and 1,500 The writing bug stuck, and the next RATCREEK.ORG a private session. The Northlands about the status and upkeep of the volunteers. 20 years were spent covering everything FB.COM/RatCreekPress board has been in private discussions facility,” said the city in a news “We look forward to returning to from local politics to community hap- @RatCreekPress with the city over the organization’s release. the site to host Northlands signature penings. She lives in Alberta Avenue @RatCreekPress future. Mayor Don Iveson said the On Sept. 11, the city signed festivals in K-Days and Farmfair with her daughter. 2 RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 Explore different options when buying meat NAIT Retail Meat Store sells products during semesters or order a deboned and rolled sional, welcoming, and open to most retail shops, but Povey with food.” REBECCA LIPPIATT turkey for Thanksgiving. answering any questions you explained the store cannot com- Visit ratcreek.org to Meat products are made with- may have. pete with the big box store see more pictures from You don’t necessarily need to out filler, so are gluten friendly, Parking is a little bit of an flier prices. NAIT sources the NAIT Retail Meat Store. buy meat from a grocery store unless otherwise marked. issue for off-campus custom- beef from Lakeside Dairy in or directly from a farm. The “Our secret ingredient is ers. The shop is located in the Bon Accord, and the meat has Rebecca has been a full-time pho- Professional Meat Cutting meat,” joked Povey. Common Market on NAIT’s good marbling and flavour. tographer for the last nine years and Merchandising program Products include sausage, main campus, but there is a 15 Pork comes from the Camrose and is a mother to two boys and at NAIT also sells meat from Hutterite Colony, as does some stepmother to two girls. September to December and of the chicken. Povey works from January to April. directly with suppliers and visits NAIT RETAIL MEAT Rob Povey, program chair the farms where the meat is STORE and instructor, would like cus- sourced. tomers to “come and see us Additionally, students partici- every week and buy fresh meat.” pate in two events in the wider CHAIR: ROB POVEY Students also benefit from community: Thanksgiving 780.471.8678 the experience, learning every dinner and the Inner City Roast aspect of meat cutting, ranging Beef Dinner at Boyle Street. COMMON MARKET, from handling a whole animal People take the program for a to creating certain cuts of meat. NAIT MAIN CAMPUS variety of reasons. Nobel Bains 11762 106 ST They also learn to work the cash applied to the program before register and provide customer getting a job at The Common. HOURS: TUES AND WEDS service. He considers it an “investment 10 AM TO 5 PM; THURS The majority of the store’s in myself and my skills” as he 10 AM TO 2 PM customers are students and Rob Povey (front), program chair and instructor, welcomes everyone to “can work at the restaurant and MID SEPT. TO MID DEC. come and buy fresh meat from the store. | Rebecca Lippiatt staff, but Povey welcomes do all the cuts [of meat]”. When AND MID JAN. TO MID members of the wider com- kebabs, steaks, roasts, hamburg- minute loading zone directly he is finished this program, APRIL munity. Customers can buy ers, beef jerky, salmon, pep- outside the store which people he will go on to take NAIT’s freshly packaged and prepared peroni, kubasa, chicken, and who are not on campus can use Culinary Arts program. Mary WWW.NAIT.CA/90626.HTM meat; pre-order specific cuts, turkey. to access the store. Turnbul, another student, said packages, and varieties of meat; Staff and students are profes- Meat prices are lower than she “likes making people happy Knowing when to report bars and restaurants Team helps businesses follow regulations and legislation legislation, standards, and regulations. particular agency puts that place on their list of inspec- TALEA MEDYNSKI “Everyone on the team has their own lens on how tions.” they look at it,” said Perizzolo. For example, City of When the team receives a complaint, they talk to the Notice a bar is serving alcohol to minors or someone Edmonton Community Standards looks at municipal business owner. is smoking in a bar or a restaurant? Or perhaps the bylaws, like noise, waste management, or zoning issues, “The first portion is education, try to give the venue fire exits are blocked? A multi-agency group called the while EPS looks at crime and provides services such as information,” said Simpson. “If it’s determined to Public Safety Compliance Team (PSCT) addresses looking at security plans. Alberta Gaming and Liquor be a problem, then give educative steps or support to these kinds of complaints. Commission ensures businesses follow legislation and remedy the situation.” According to the city website, “The Public Safety policies, and Edmonton Fire Rescue deals with fire After that, the team follows up to ensure the business Compliance Team (PSCT) is the regulatory and enforce- prevention and fire code compliance. has followed recommended steps. If that hasn’t hap- ment arm of the City of Edmonton’s Responsible In terms of bylaws, Perizzolo explained things like pened, consequences can vary from a simple ticket to a Hospitality Edmonton initiative that promotes edu- general tidiness is important, and business owners are loss of a license. cation, prevention, and is enforcement-based.” The responsible for clearing sidewalks, disposing of litter, Perizzolo said the team’s focus is “is on education, team consists of Edmonton Police Service, Alberta bottles, or pallets, and painting over graffiti. prevention and support for alcohol sale venues to Gaming and Liquor Commission, City of Edmonton In regards to food safety, Alberta Health Services operate in a safe and responsible manner. We also Community Standards Branch, and Edmonton Fire (AHS) perform unannounced inspections, but people operate as the link between citizens and the business. Rescue. can call 311 or reach AHS directly if they have con- Enforcement action is a last resort as our goal is to work Chantel Perizzolo, supervisor of PSCT, said report- cerns. with the businesses to ensure that all regulations are able issues range anywhere from noise complaints, to File a complaint by calling 311 and refer the com- being complied with.” untidiness to an unlicensed business. plaint to PSCT to follow up. To track the complaint, “Obviously, you’re not going to report a restaurant ask 311 for a file number or track by business location. Talea is the Rat Creek Press editor. She loves sharing the if you don’t like the food or service,” said Sgt. Colin “If it requires AHS we can contact AHS; but 311 will stories of our diverse neighbourhoods. Simpson, PSCT’s team lead. While reasons to report not,” said Perizzolo. a business are dependent on the situation, Simpson “311 is the hub. If you’re not sure where your com- explained the team “was originally designed to maintain plaint should go, that’s your best bet,” said Simpson, WHO TO CALL regulatory checks on businesses.” He said a collabora- and explained calls are directed to the proper person. 311 tive effort can resolve issues more quickly. For example, if it’s a noise complaint, bylaw officers or Alberta Gaming and Liquor Complaint Line: 1.800.742.7818 In addition to responding to complaints, the team police will handle it. Restaurant inspections also conducts scheduled and unscheduled inspections “We meet regularly to find out which complaints albertahealthservices.ca/eph/Page3149.aspx of new bars and restaurants to ensure they’re following have come across our desk,” said Simpson. “Then the

RAT CREEK PRESS ASSOCIATION 9210 118 AVENUE, EDMONTON, AB T5G 0N2 T: 780.479.6285 ABOUT US We are a non-profit community newspaper serving Alberta Avenue, Delton, Eastwood, Elmwood Park, Parkdale-Cromdale, Spruce Avenue, COPYRIGHT and Westwood. The opinions expressed in the paper are those of the Copyright of articles, letters, people named as authors of the articles and do not necessarily reflect photographs, and other those of the board or staff. online materials submitted and published by the Rat GOALS Creek Press in print or online Build Community, Encourage Communication, Increase Capacity. remains with the author, but the Rat Creek Press may BOARD OF DIRECTORS freely reproduce them in print, my Jessica MacQueen, John Dunn, Nicole Malenczak, Joe Wong, Rob electronic and other forms. Bernshaw, Aydan Vickruck-Dunnigan, Patricia Dunnigan. The board may be contacted at [email protected]. DELIVERY PRODUCTION STAFF I The paper is delivered by PUBLISHER Karen Mykietka [email protected] Post to all houses, EDITOR Talea Medynski [email protected] apartments, and businesses in DESIGNER Lorraine Shulba [email protected] the seven neighbourhoods listed ADVERTISING [email protected] above including those with no CONTRIBUTORS unaddressed mail notices. For the Our writers vary from trained journalists to community residents with most part, delivery begins on the varying backgrounds. We strive to be a place where individuals can last Wednesday of the month. RATCREEK.ORG learn new skills and acquire experience—whether in writing, editing, photography, or illustration. We welcome letters, unsolicited submissions, and story ideas. RCP VOLUME 19, ISSUE 10 OCTOBER 2017 E: [email protected] W: RATCREEK.ORG RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 3 Property theft increasing throughout city Police offer tips to help create a safer community with this crime. inch screws in the side plate. doors while working outside, measures in place, but the sense TALEA MEDYNSKI “A few weeks ago, the south Mount motion-sensor lights on putting away items, closing of community must go togeth- side had a string of them,” the garage, but ensure the lights garage doors, and covering win- er. We need the community to Not too long ago, Carolina Trenchard said. “People were are high enough so thieves can’t dows. If a garage is attached to watch out for one another. Let Astorga, an Alberta Avenue taking the garage door openers tamper with them. Also consid- your house, lock the interior your neighbours know when resident, woke up at 10 am from the car to use to break into er the sight lines, which is how garage door. Once thieves are in you’re away.” after returning from a vaca- the garage.” easy it is to see the garage door. your garage, they can break into If you see someone who tion and noticed the side door Thieves typically break into “Instead of installing a your home. appears to be scoping out the of her garage was open. She the side door of a garage. They wooden gate, you can put up “If it’s not easy to access, if it area, be cautious. thought her husband had left it look for unlocked doors, old a wrought-iron gate—it opens takes more time, they may just “If you feel comfortable and open after leaving for work that garage doors, and they don’t look like a morning, but instead discovered poor lighting. threat, ask a casual, non- thieves had forced their way While some break- confrontational ques- through the locked door. ins are planned, tion,” said Trenchard. At first, she thought only a other times they’re For example, ask if bike was missing, but later real- not. Additionally, they’re lost or looking for ized thieves had also stolen a thieves tend to an address. “Sometimes battery, a tent, and jump cables. steal items that are a simple or general ques- “They could have taken easy to carry and to tion can deter people more, but I think they were in a pawn, like tools. away.” hurry,” said Astorga. “I’m pretty Daytime is a If you witness a theft, sure they were waiting for my popular time for Trenchard said, “be a husband to go to work.” theft to take place. good witness. Take in a It’s the second time in the “In daytime, lot, call police.” last five or six years someone neighbourhoods If it’s safe to do so has broken into the garage, but are empty when (such as if you’re in a car), the first time the garage wasn’t people go to take a picture or record locked. This time, it was. work,” Trenchard Residential break-ins tend to take place during the day, while business break-ins more the theft. But, she urged, “This time is worse because explained. “You typically take place at night. | Pixabay “Don’t put yourself at they just forced their way in.” lose what’s called risk. In the end, we can Constable Amanda ‘eyes on the street.’” sight lines up,” she suggested. move on,” Trenchard said. replace things, not a person.” Trenchard, with Edmonton Trenchard suggested increas- Edmonton Police Services Trenchard emphasized the Police Service’s (EPS’) crime ing security by installing a dead- also suggested recording the importance of knowing your Talea is the Rat Creek Press editor. prevention unit, said the inner bolt at least an inch long to a make, model, and serial num- neighbours. She loves sharing the stories of our city isn’t the only area to be hit garage door and using three- bers of expensive items, locking “I can put all the security diverse neighbourhoods.

YOUR neighbourhood realtor

Selling homes since 1990! ROXANNE LITWYN 780-907-7589 ROXANNEHOMES.COM

LOVE YOUR community newspaper? Don’t keep this secret. Tell someone! my

size 5.625 x 2.25” size 1.75 x 2.25” I $95 colour $40 colour $75 B&W size 3.625 x 7.5” $30 B&W size 9.5 x 2.25” Image builder size 5.625 x 7.5” $225 colour Thumbnail $250 colour $175 B&W Front PageBanner colour size 3.65 x 2.25” $325 1/5 page tall $250 B&W $65 colour 1/3 page tall $50 B&W RCP Business card size 9.5 x 2.25” Refer new advertisers size 9.5 x 7.5” size 9.5 x 5” $150 colour & earn 10% cash on the size 5.625 x 5” size 3.625 x 5” $125 B&W colour $500 colour Banner value of the initial ad sale! $400 B&W $225 colour $325 colour $250 B&W $125 $100 B&W Half page ad $175 B&W 1/3 page banner RCP 1/5 page square Double business card RATCREEK.ORG 4 RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 Ward councillor candidates address questions Discover ward candidates’ stances on key issues and municipal government 2049, so it’s difficult to frame Mimi Williams: Complete par- Andrzej Gudanowski: Create TALEA MEDYNSKI educational background, years the discussion, but Northlands tially finished neighbourhoods. community centres provid- of covering city hall as a free- employs over 700 people. Increase density, but with ing free universal access to a On Oct. 16, Edmontonians lance journalist, and 30 years Boutique hotels and restaurants options like row housing or psychologist. Justice must be will vote for a mayor and ward of volunteering for community could capitalize on conference townhouses. Prompt developers fair and honest. If someone is councillors. The RCP distribu- causes. centre events. High-rise devel- to think creatively with multi- charged with a crime, ensure tion area covers Wards 2 and Kris Andreychuk: Raising a opment would be great north unit development. Encourage fair treatment and open access 7 and voters have many candi- family in the community and of 118 Ave, while south of 118 multi-generational communi- to defense lawyers. dates from which to choose. committed to Ward 7. Has Ave and north of 112 Ave could ties, where people can age in Mimi Williams: Address the worked and volunteered in the be returned to residential and place. root causes of crime before it Check out each candidate’s ward and understands ward pedestrian-friendly streets lead- Ensure every multi-unit devel- happens. Provide youth with response to key questions. issues, problems, and possibili- ing to Borden Park. Increase opment permit issued has a per- educational or training oppor- Answers have been summarized. ties. involvement of surrounding centage of units set aside for tunities and lobby all govern- communities in the conversa- affordable housing. ment levels to adequately fund WHAT DO YOU FEEL IS WARD 2 CANDIDATE tion. Kris Andreychuk: Attract and welfare programs with educa- THE BIGGEST ISSUE IN ANSWERS Kris Andreychuk: With the retain new businesses, especially tional programming. Support THIS ELECTION? Bev Esslinger: Experienced, existing connection to tran- small businesses. Ward 7 has social service agencies working passionate, and a leader. A ward sit, Borden Park, and the over 200 per cent more vacant with marginalized communi- WARD 7 CANDIDATE advocate who gets things done. river valley, this could be the land than average. Encourage ties to identify and help people ANSWERS Worked on securing funding to most exciting development building and preserving quality, before they resort to criminal Matthew Kleywegt: Citizen make Yellowhead a freeway and in our city. There’s nothing unique, and historical homes. activity. engagement. working on a Northwest LRT, but promise here. Done cor- Build structures that add to the Encourage neighbours to Tony Caterina: Everyone has a new senior centre, space for rectly, Northlands could create neighbourhood. know each other and be vigi- different priorities, but will con- cultural groups, and meeting a positive domino effect and lant. Practice crime prevention tinue to focus on quality of life recreational needs. widespread revitalization. WARD 2 CANDIDATE through environmental design for ward residents. Shelley Tupper: Dedicated, ANSWERS or through increased police Liz John-West: Voter turnout. hard working, informed, open- WARD 2 CANDIDATE Bev Esslinger: Support a grow- patrols when needed. Over 50 per cent of the ward minded, and a good decision- ANSWERS ing city with housing needs, Kris Andreychuk: Has exten- neighbourhoods have a 25 per maker. Experience working Bev Esslinger: Create a vibrant, but carefully develop mature sive experience in crime preven- cent or less voter turnout. on community initiatives like useful site reflecting commu- neighbourhoods while creat- tion and community safety in Andrzej Gudanowski: There is Front Yards in Bloom and nity feedback. Hopefully the ing growth opportunities. The the ward. Currently works as no one biggest issue. Everyone Capital City Clean Up. A Ward organization will evolve into an city’s made positive progress the city’s supervisor of com- has their own priorities. 2 resident for over 30 years. agriculture- and foods-focused in reducing impacts on nearby munity safety. Was previously Mimi Williams: Traffic safety, organization. homes and providing commu- a social worker with EPS and the future of Northlands, and WHAT IS YOUR VISION Shelley Tupper: Redevelop nity support. Continued work community partners. anger over financing of down- FOR NORTHLANDS? the Coliseum into a Hockey is needed until we have it right. Very familiar with the crime town arena. Canada Centre for Excellence Shelley Tupper: Ward resi- issues the ward faces and would Kris Andreychuk: WARD 7 CANDIDATE and delay redeveloping the dents have suggested a morato- start with problem properties. Representation. Ensuring ward ANSWERS whole area. Support Shaw rium to ensure neighbourhood residents have a voice on city Matthew Kleywegt: Take Conference Centre and the character is maintained; others WARD 2 CANDIDATE council. the land back, keeping what have said there’s little incentive ANSWERS WARD 2 CANDIDATE works and turning the remain- working together. to maintain or improve a prop- Bev Esslinger: Reducing crime ANSWERS der into housing. Amalgamate erty when a developer will bull- and increasing safety in neigh- Bev Esslinger: Growing the convention centre and HOW WOULD YOU doze it to build skinny houses. bourhoods, public spaces, and responsibly, meeting citizen the Shaw Conference Centre APPROACH DEVELOP- on roads is a huge priority. Will needs, improving infrastructure, under the Edmonton Economic MENT IN THE WARD? WHAT IS YOUR STANCE promote and support aware- increasing safety, working with Development Corporation. ON REDUCING CRIME? ness, education, and enforce- communities to develop appro- Keep the urban farm and turn WARD 7 CANDIDATE ment. Will continue to focus priate assets, and working on remainder into a walkable resi- ANSWERS WARD 7 CANDIDATE on increasing traffic and transit homelessness issues. dential/commercial commu- Matthew Kleywegt: Infill isn’t ANSWERS safety. Created and will contin- Shelley Tupper: Infill housing. nity. Subsidize some units in easy; work with developers to Matthew Kleywegt: Support ue work on the Gender Based every building and make at least get desired developments for stronger communities where Violence Prevention initiative, WHY SHOULD PEOPLE one building an assisted-living communities while still allow- neighbours watch out for one which focuses on domestic vio- VOTE FOR YOU? facility. Turn Rexall into a com- ing them to make a profit. Make another. Provide services like lence and sexual assault. munity building. the middle ground possible. managed drug and alcohol pro- Shelley Tupper: Have been WARD 7 CANDIDATE Tony Caterina: Don’t let the Tony Caterina: Pleased with grams to reduce theft-related involved in crime prevention ANSWERS land sit idle. It’s an opportunity the increased development and crimes because those struggling for 22 years by supporting Matthew Kleywegt: The depth to develop the land and create investment and better access to with addictions sometimes organizations like Edmonton of his lived experience and the well-planned housing, retail, valued amenities. The devel- steal to support their habit. Neighbourhood Watch, ability to relate to people from and commercial developments. opment and investment shows Encourage more communica- Neighbourhood Empowerment many backgrounds and experi- Liz John-West: Continue agri- the increased desirability of the tion with police in communi- Teams, Edmonton Community ences. cultural aspect and combine the ward. ties and support an enhanced Patrols, Capital City Clean Up, Edmonton EXPO Centre and Liz John-West: Increase program for school resource and Front Yards in Bloom. Tony Caterina: A record of Shaw Conference Centre under community engagement and officers. Knowing your neighbourhoods getting things done in the ward. one umbrella. Resident ideas encourage a public dialogue or Tony Caterina: Considers and neighbours is great crime Has highlighted ward needs and for the Coliseum range from a even hold a plebiscite on con- crime reduction important. prevention, along with keep- brought positive change. recreation facility to ice rinks tentious issues like infill hous- Provided support for increased ing neighbourhoods upkept and Liz John-West: Thirty years of to concert venues. Ideally keep ing. or better community-based clean. community work in the areas Northlands accessible to all. Andrzej Gudanowski: Help policing, transit security, of homelessness, addiction, and Andrzej Gudanowski: Present grow businesses and bring in enforcement, as well as strate- Editor’s note: Ward 2 candi- domestic violence issues and projects and embrace patron- investors. Create a five-year gies for addressing derelict and date Ali Haymour was not able 27 years of living in the ward. age of gardens like Muttart housing program. Everyone problem properties. to respond in time for publi- Community engagement is Conservatory as well as festivals should be able to own their Liz John-West: Reduce crime cation. For more information important to her. She’s finish- and naturalized pools. Use the own home. Perhaps introduce through prevention and strong about his platform, visit www. ing a master’s in community Coliseum or affordably build a tiny homes. communities. Reinstate neigh- vote4haymour.ca. development. forum for community leaders Together with other council- bourhood police stations and Andrzej Gudanowski: The and community members to lors, create the first street com- help those wishing to live a non- Talea is the Rat Creek Press editor. challenge of being a leader, interact and resolve different mercial passage in Edmonton criminal lifestyle. Use initiatives She loves sharing the stories of our advising, and helping people. issues. and open new post offices, like Abundant Community diverse neighbourhoods. Will fight for people’s rights. Mimi Williams: Northlands banks, neighbourhood police to create safe, inclusive com- Mimi Williams: Thoroughly holds a lease on the property stations, and night emergency munities. Encourage property understands the way the city until 2034, with a clause allow- clinics. upkeep; it helps increase com- operates due to political science ing them to extend the lease to munity morale. RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 5 Stories of Alberta Avenue business owners Champions of Alberta Avenue project released in the next few months This summer, Arts on the day. her as well. stop to find everything from children. Avenue (AOTA) worked on Nguyen is president of the Durowaa is a busy woman. West Africa, East Africa, and “We saved money; before Champions of Alberta Avenue, Alberta Avenue Business She came to Edmonton in 2003 the Caribbean that they’re look- we spent a penny, we thought which showcases stories of Association and said giving back and has established herself as a ing for,” she said. “I’m proud of about it,” Lan said. immigrant business owners to the community feels good. “I successful entrepreneur through what I’ve done.” Sunny worked as a chef’s assis- along 118 Avenue. In October- appreciate the opportunity and determination, hard work, and Durowaa said many immi- tant at the Chateau Lacombe November, the project’s pho- support the community gave “the blessing of the Lord.” grants “come here and end up and later started a driving tography, a short film, and me so, to pay back, I want to She was working as a health- throwing their talent away” and school. Lan sewed the designs written profiles will be released. contribute my time and energy care aide when she opened doing some other kind of work. and upholstered the insides The Carrot Coffeehouse will to businesses on the Avenue.” Kasoa Tropical Food Market She believes that whatever your of caskets until she developed host the premier of the pho- His contribution extends in 2006, working at the store talent is, “if you work hard and problems with her hands from tography and written profiles beyond Alberta Avenue. during the day and as a health- do it well, you will succeed.” repetitive use of the stapler, glue beginning Oct. 1. Over the He’s very involved with care aide at night. A year later, That said, she cautions it takes gun, and scissors. next several months, look here the Vietnamese communi- she moved down the block to time. In 2008, their grown children for condensed profiles of busi- ty and plays keyboard in the the present location at 9320 “Right now, I would say suggested Lan start a restaurant ness owners (written by Shirley Downtown Band with his 118 Avenue as she needed Edmonton is home. Here is to share her wonderful cooking. Serviss) featured in the project. brother. They often play for more room for the African and where I am and I have no plans “If they wanted to do it, I said non-profits. “Not only do I Caribbean goods she carries. to go anywhere different.” I’d help. I’d share my recipes Downtown Auto: A Source enjoy myself, but we help orga- One room of the store holds and teach them,” Lan said. of Pride nizations with fundraising.” canned products, toiletries, Lan’s Asian Grill: a Labour They opened Lan’s Asian Jim (Cua) Nguyen, owner Vietnam will always be herbs and spices, drinks, and of Love Grill at 11826 103 Street near of Downtown Auto, was raised Nguyen’s homeland, but an amazing variety of fish and Lan Lim and her husband NAIT. A true family business, above his father’s garage in while he thinks of himself as a meats such as cow feet, oxtail, Sunny Lim came to Edmonton Tom manages the restaurant, Vietnam, and spent much of dual citizen, he said he misses tripe, and beef lungs. A second in 1975 with $100 on the rec- Monica does the cooking, and his childhood and adolescence Edmonton when he travels room has dried goods like rice, ommendation of the one person Vinson does the marketing. working on vehicles. He had his there. beans, various flours and cereals Lim knew here, who said it was “To be a cook, you have to journeyman ticket by the time “For the first 10 years, I as well as plantains, sweet pota- peaceful and people were very have a heart,” Lan said. “You he was 21. have to love He also loved chemis- your custom- try and was in his third ers, keep every- year of studying pharma- thing clean, cy at university when the and give good opportunity arose to come things to your to Edmonton. “I always customers. wanted to try living in We don’t use another country,” he said, MSG or too “and Canada is a peace- much oil.” ful country.” In 1991, he Tom came with other members remembers her of his family to embark on teaching him a different career path. that lesson “I made the right early in life choice,” he said. when she took Nguyen worked in a head of let- his brother’s garage for a tuce, peeled few years before opening off the outer Downtown Auto in 1996 leaves, and at 11765 95 Street. “It’s told him that very, very, very impor- if they were tant to be here on 118 still good, you Avenue,” he said. “There’s could eat them density and lots of traffic.” yourself. Then What makes it differ- she cut open ent, he believes, and gives Charity Durowaa operates three successful businesses. | Kaye Ly the lettuce and it an advantage, is its mul- showed him ticultural nature and strong, liked it here, but didn’t feel I toes, yams, cassava, and taro friendly. the tender, inner leaves. These, supportive community. belonged,” he said. “After that, roots. Lan was born in Laos and met she said, were the ones you Operating your own business I felt like I was born here!” She also opened Mama’s Sunny there, but they moved to would serve to your guests— takes “knowledge, passion and Bodega Market, a source for Thailand fearing what would only the best. It’s that philoso- commitment,” Nguyen said. Kasoa Tropical Food Market Filipino and Latino Foods at happen as communism took phy that guides the restaurant. “You have to love what you do, Charity Durowaa lives up 9340 118 Avenue. “I wanted over the country. Sunny had “To be successful, you have make sure you put knowledge to her name. The owner of to explore something different.” already escaped from Cambodia, to do it with your heart. You behind it, work with others, and two food markets on Alberta In May 2016, she opened where many people had been have to be honest and care don’t give up.” Avenue is a generous woman. Kasoa’s second location at 9062 tortured and killed, including about what you’re doing. You He’s proud of his accomplish- “The spirit of my name car- 51 Avenue to be more conve- his parents. They left Thailand have to work hard,” Lan said. ments. “We provide a service ries with me,” she said, explain- nient for her southside custom- for California, from where they “We still miss our country, but I based on honesty, fairness, and ing Christianity teaches her to ers. “It’s doing well as I already immigrated to Canada. love people here. It is my home responsibility, and I’ve achieved “be kind to other people and had a customer base across the Hard work was the first order now.” what I have pretty much from help the needy.” Growing up river.” of business in Canada, and they scratch.” He hopes his eldest with her grandfather, a pastor “I’m happy. I’m being blessed. took whatever jobs they could Visit ratcreek.org for more pic- son takes over his business some in Ghana, probably influenced People appreciate having one find as they raised their three tures of the business owners.

Thursdays until 8 pm 6 RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017

EDITORIAL A new Northlands can be a new opportunity Changes allow Northlands to go back to its roots event centres. The EEDC is still on ice. as teaming up with Hockey And there’s the 31,200-square- HAMDI ISSAWI capable of managing both Last month, city council also Canada and turning it into a foot Urban Farm, a model of venues and taking on the EXPO voted in favour of taking over hockey centre of excellence. local and sustainable food pro- Change is in the air, and that Centre’s staff. Although the city both, and opted to permanently But renovating the arena to duction. If Northlands can con- means more than the seasonal can afford to absorb the debt, it close the arena by Jan. 1. It add additional ice sheets and tinue operating it, the patch of change to fall. In the blink of an shouldn’t have to with nothing was a loss the whole city felt, training facilities would cost land in the southwest corner eye, Northlands seems to have to show for it. and with good reason. The between $100-150 million. can continue serving as a valu- been turned on its head. It all In the past, both venues com- Coliseum is an iconic symbol Demolishing it, on the other able educational resource for happened so fast. peted for bookings and ran the of Edmonton’s greatest sports hand, would only cost about $8 everyone from hobby gardeners Come Jan. 1, Northlands will risk of hosting events that might achievements. It was the home million. It might be cheaper to to beekeepers. However, that hand the reigns of its EXPO have been served better by the of Oilers during the dynasty just rebuild. negotiation is still ongoing. Centre to the Edmonton other—a situation which can years, and the place where But nobody is swinging any This time next year, Economic Development lead to missed business oppor- made his name wrecking balls yet. The area Northlands may be a very dif- Corporation (EEDC), the City tunities. known across the world. redevelopment plan for the ferent place. But change doesn’t of Edmonton’s arm-length Under the authority of the But with major concerts Coliseum isn’t due until later have to be a bad thing as long agency that manages the Shaw EEDC, both facilities can be and sporting events moved next year. Whatever the city as we’re willing to look forward. Conference Centre. managed to coordinate and downtown to , decides, there will be time to This isn’t the end of the world The city announced the tran- appropriately accommodate cli- the Coliseum’s major revenue adjust, or mourn. for Northlands; it’s just the end sition on Aug. 29, after council ents. Consolidation also opens streams have dried up, making Regardless, Northlands will of the season. decided to forgive Northlands’ the city to new business, such it hard to justify as an entertain- still have a lot going for it. $48-million debt from renovat- as conferences, expos, and trade ment venue. There’s a silver A leader in agriculture and Hamdi is a journalism student ing the EXPO Centre in 2009. shows that require more space, lining, though: the closure gets food events, the non-profit at MacEwan University. He The city didn’t have much of a resources, and facilities than any the city out of a $17-million organization has an opportu- cut his teeth as a contributor choice; it guaranteed the loan, one venue could offer alone. sponsorship agreement with the nity to return to its roots, so on Terra Informa, an award- and for the last year, allowed Connected by an LRT line, the Oilers Entertainment Group, a to speak. For at least the next winning, environmental news Northlands to defer its semi two centres could easily share bitter pill from the downtown five years, Northlands will con- magazine. He has also written for annual $2-million payments. large events. arena deal. tinue to host signature events The Gateway Online and The It’s a practical move. As for the Northlands Park The city has entertained a few like Farmfair International and Griff. Find Hamdi on Twitter @ Edmonton doesn’t need rival and the Coliseum, the future is ideas for the arena’s future, such K-Days. hamdiissawi.

Change is coming at Northlands, but it doesn’t have to be a bad thing. | Kate Wilson

Brian Mason, MLA EDMONTON-HIGHLANDS-NORWOOD

As your representative in the Alberta Legislature, I continue to work hard for you and your family: ~ strengthen key services, like health care & education ~ promote a government that is fair and responsible to all of its citizens ~ develop strong and vibrant communities where everyone can prosper

Tel. 780-414-0682 6519 - 112 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5W 0P1

Follow me on Facebook & Twitter Search for: “Brian Mason Edmonton”

[email protected] RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 7

SLICE OF LIFE Opportunity comes in strange disguises The slow fade of a job brings to light a new career possible? When the Oilers moved have. I’ve never gone after what to run into burning buildings, STEPHEN STRAND On Aug. 29, city council downtown, I decided to step I wanted, I’ve simply done what the desire to help keep people voted that as of Jan. 1 2018, the back from working hockey I must. safe has stayed with me. The idea With all the changes happening EXPO Centre will merge with games as a camera operator to My work in broadcasting of being a paramedic appeals to at Northlands, my job is going the Shaw Conference Centre focus on aiming my life in a and at Northlands was never me. The idea of being the first away and with it, my future is and be run by the Edmonton direction less dedicated to my intended. I took them because I on the scene and helping those up in the air, with no known Economic Development job. But a little over a year ago, got laid off by a company going that truly need help calls to me. destination. Corporation (EEDC). I work Northlands asked the city for a under. A friend got me into this I no longer want to do what I A large part of my income will for Northlands, not the EEDC. reprieve, for a deferral of pay- industry because I needed a job. must; I want to do what I want. be gone as of the new year when My job will be given to whom- ments on the debt they owe Northlands and broadcasting That is why I plan to go back to the division of Northlands as ever the EEDC chooses, at a to the city. With the reprieve has been good to me while they school to become a paramedic we know it will begin. Then, wage of their choosing. came downsizing, which tends lasted, but perhaps what could and help those in truly life and at the end of the horse racing My wife and I bought our to create more work for those have been terrible news is really death situations. season, the rest of my income home in this neighbourhood, who are left. an opportunity in disguise. will dry up. in large part due to its proximity Most my life has been spent When I was young, my dad Stephen works in broadcasting The slow fade of watching the to my work with the Oilers at doing what must be done, doing worked as a firefighter, and and writes for fun. He can be paycheques becoming smaller Rexall Place and with my work what I must to keep myself hearing stories of daring rescues seen walking through the neigh- and smaller is terrifying. Should at Northlands. It is walking afloat, and doing what I must made me wish to be brave and bourhood with a bag covered in I call it quits now before the distance to both. Now that has to keep myself employed at jobs help keep people safe. pins and filled with books and paycheques become too small? become moot. I’ve not necessarily intended to While I’ve never had a desire notepads. Or do I ride it out as long as

The impending loss of a job brings to light a new career opportunity. | Pixabay 8 RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 Putting a garden to bed for the winter Follow this to-do list before the snow falls but this work is generally done Allen said, explaining weeds are “The first rule of soil building back in the garden.” Examples STEPHEN STRAND between mid-September to nature’s way of filling space and is to take nothing away. All the include stinkweed or weeds that mid-October. helping to repair damaged soil. dead material is food for your spread by their roots. After a summer of enjoying After harvesting your plants, Carrots and parsnips can be soil,” Stumpf-Allen explained. Mix compost in the top few the fruits and vegetables of our compost. left in the garden, but Forget “You can leave it alone, let it inches of the soil. “It helps labours, autumn is the time to Mark Stumpf-Allen, com- suggests picking them in the decay and deal with the left- hold in moisture in the soil so prepare the garden for spring post programs coordinator with springtime, otherwise they will overs in spring, like nature does. it is available for plants,” said by harvesting, pulling up plants, the city, said, “As crops ripen go to seed. Forgotten potatoes You can pull it up and bury it Forget. This also helps improve and composting. and your garden is emptied, and tomatoes will also grow. in topsoil like old-timers did, the soil structure if there is too While some plants can endure you should immediately plant Forget said the prep work or you can compost it like sci- much clay. the frost, others can’t. Harvest more seeds.” He continued, is important because it “also entists do.” As Stumpf-Allen said, “The plants such as tomatoes, peas, “Remember, roots are one of accumulates moisture from Any organic matter can soil is telling you what it needs, peppers, and squash as they the three soil builders and so the snow for the next growing be composted, although you you just have to take the time ripen. Root vegetables can stay never leave your soil without season.” If there are pests in the shouldn’t compost dog, cat, to listen and learn the language. in the ground until it freezes. active root systems.” soil, disturbing the soil right and human feces or diseased Easy-peasy, right? Ha ha, nope.” Preparing the garden for After harvesting root veg- before a frost will help kill some plants. Stumpf-Allen suggests spring is the last thing to do etables in mid September or of them over the winter. beginners stick to simple com- Stephen works in broadcasting before winter. October, bury organic waste Stumpf-Allen said soil on the posting, like using egg shells and writes for fun. He can be “This is the last thing in the and leaves where the plants were city’s north side is a “clay-struc- and plants. He added, “things seen walking through the neigh- fall, after all the edibles are to help protect the soil against tured soil, which is excellent for that should not go into your bourhood with a bag covered in harvested as temperatures start the spring thaw cycles and pre- growing food.” But it’s impor- compost pile are things that will pins and filled with books and hovering a few degrees above vent weeds. tant to work the soil and build harm your soil or interfere with notepads. zero during the day,” explained “If you leave soil bare through it up year-round to get it “the plant growth.” Gérard Forget, Alberta Avenue fall and winter, you’re invit- way it was before modern agri- Forget added, “things to avoid Community Garden coordi- ing weeds to do the soil build- cultural methods began destroy- are weeds with mature seeds nator. Each year is different, ing work for you,” Stumpf- ing it.” that will germinate if spread

Prepare your garden for winter between mid September and October. | Stephen Strand CHURCH SERVICES

ANGLICAN PARISHES ON 8718 118 Avenue EVANGELICAL BAPTIST ALBERTA AVE (Crystal Kids Building) CHURCH ST. FAITH AND ST. STEPHEN avenuevineyard.com Sundays at 10:30 am ‘Be kind and compassionate to Two Traditions – One Faith. one another, forgiving each other, 11725 93 Street AVENUE CHURCH just as in Christ God forgave you…Therefore encourage one St. Stephen: 780.422.3240 A community to belong in...a another and build each other up’ Sunday Worship: community to serve with. Eph. 4:32, 1 Th. 5:11a 8:30 am - Low Mass 12317-82 St. 9:00 am - Morning Prayer 11335 85 Street 780.474.4830 9:30 am - High Mass (Parkdale Hall) 7:00 pm - Evensong avenuechurch.ca Sunday School 10:00 am Sunday Worship 11:00 am St. Faith: 780.477.5931 Sundays Wed. Study/Prayer 6:30 pm Sunday Worship: coffee fellowship - 9:30am Morning Prayer Fridays 10:00 am Service at 9:00 a.m. 11:00 am - Sunday Worship ST. ANDREW’S PRESBYTERIAN 1st Sunday - Worship in the CHURCH Common BETHEL GOSPEL CHAPEL 2nd Sunday - Traditional A Bible-based, multi-ethnic 8715 118 Avenue Anglican fellowship. 780-477-8677 3rd Sunday - Aboriginal Form 11461 95 Street Service Times: 4th Sunday - Traditional 780.477.3341 Anglican Sundays at 11 am Sunday Meetings: A caring and loving church in AVENUE VINEYARD CHURCH 9:30 am - Lord’s Supper your community where 11:00 am - Family Bible Hour everyone is welcome. A friendly, informal, non-judgmen- tal and safe place to grow spiritu- ally. Traditional Christian values in a non-traditional way. RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 9 ‘Tis the season for all things pumpkin Use the seeds or puree for all kinds of recipes

RCP CONTRIBUTOR COLLABORATION

It’s autumn, the season for Halloween, and by extension carving jack ‘o lanterns and sipping pumpkin spice lattes. But pumpkins are more than a mere decoration or seasonal latte; they are chock full of nutrients like potassium and vitamin C and make a great addition to many meals. Don’t eat a pumpkin once you’ve carved it and used it for Halloween. The pumpkin will have been exposed to bacteria for too long to safely cook and eat it. You can, however, use the pumpkin if you’ve only decorated it with food-safe paint.

Here are some ideas on how to use pumpkin.

DECORATING I like peeling the skin off and filling the pumpkin with mini lights. It makes a really cool lantern. Nicola Dakers PUMPKIN SEEDS Clean pumpkin seeds, spread on a cookie sheet, add a little oil and salt or seasoning of your choice, and dry in the oven for several hours. Enjoy! Rebecca Lippiatt

SOUP Fry one onion with butter or olive oil. Add a medium cubed pumpkin, salt and pepper, and stock. Cook and blend. Rebecca Lippiatt

GENERAL RECIPES I roast the pumpkin whole and then scoop out the seeds. If I’m feeling energetic, I set them aside for roasting later. The pumpkin flesh gets scooped out, pureed with a blender, and frozen in two cup jars. I can then defrost the puree and use it for a variety of recipes throughout the year. Curiously, I never make pie. I use it in muffins, granola bars, and even pasta sauce! Nadine Riopel

OATMEAL Add ¼ to ½ cup pureed pumpkin to cooked oatmeal, along with spices like cinnamon and your choice of sweetener or milk. Top with any fruit you prefer. Talea Medynski

BEVERAGES At risk of jumping on the pumpkin spice bandwagon, we make pumpkin smooth- ies. Blend up some roasted or BREAD steamed pumpkin chunks in I found a fantastic bread with yogurt, milk, or what- recipe in an old Reader’s ever else you use, add some Digest cookbook. The recipe pumpkin spice, garnish with involved adding about a pecans if you like, and you cup of pureed pumpkin to get the satisfaction of eating a bread recipe. It made the vegetables for breakfast. best, flavourful bread and Sue would go so well with soup or stew. Talea Medynski 10 RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 Reasons why some homes your burn and some don’t eastwood Reduce the chances of your house catching fire news mable materials. those and cover them with fine NADINE RIOPEL Some homes and their imme- metal mesh. sponsored by diate surroundings are more According to Westhaver, In the Fort McMurray wildfires flammable than others. “Wherever snowflakes can accu- of 2016, some houses burned and “The most important thing is mulate, that’s where embers will 11803 86 St 780.477.2354 others didn’t, even in the same the type and arrangement of veg- pile up,” because they are carried [email protected] neighbourhoods. According etation around the home,” said on the wind. to fire prevention expert Alan Westhaver. “Evergreens, espe- “Think about the pathways Westhaver, this wasn’t purely cially ornamental junipers and that connect fires to your home. due to luck. His work with the cedars, are highly combustible. Break those pathways up,” he Institute for Catastrophic Loss They burn with great intensity. said, “Get rid of unnecessary Annual General E-Town Vocal Reduction demonstrates reasons Broad, leafy plants are much combustibles. Don’t have any- Meeting Music Society for the phenomenon, and it harder to ignite.” thing that will burn with an On Oct. 4 at 7 E-Town is now holds lessons on how to keep our Even evergreens are less dan- open flame within 1.5 metres pm, join us at our recruiting those eager homes safer from fire. gerous if you remove the lower of your home, and store things AGM to discuss to sing. Eastwood Here in the Rat Creek area, branches so that fire can’t spread properly.” the proximity of the Kinnaird up them from the ground. It isn’t necessary to maintain a community matters youth will be given a Ravine is a hazard because fires Other combustibles close to completely empty space around a at Eastwood Hall. scholarship for regis- travel up slopes more readily than the home can increase risk, such home. Moist plants, flowers, and Connect with com- tering and attending flat surfaces. Ravines can act as as wooden fences that attach watered grass are fine. But take munity members Wednesday classes conduits from forested areas into to the house, old construction any measure to minimize clutter and participate in (from 4 to 6:30 pm) residential ones, especially in the materials, wood piles, and piles and create barriers to the spread elections for board and Eastwood adults spring when there’s a buildup of of dry leaves or pine needles. of fire. dry underbrush. Embers carried The combustible parts of the For more information, positions. If you are pay half price for the by wind can travel for blocks. house’s structure factor into its download the free FireSmart interested in taking Augmented Adults We’re vulnerable to more vulnerability. Decks, patios, bal- Homeowner’s Assessment an active role in your Choir. urban types of fire, caused by conies, and building materials and Homeowner’s Manual. community and More info: facebook. such things as electrical malfunc- increase risk if they are dry and building work experi- com/ETownMinors tion or cooking fires. In either flammable. Cedar shingles and Nadine is a professional facilita- ence in community case, according to Westhaver, other wooden building materials tor and connector. She is also an development, we New website “Fire is a surprising thing. Being are most vulnerable. enthusiastic member of the Spruce prepared and thinking ahead is “There’s a misconception that Avenue community, where she lives are always seeking Our new website is important to do, because little metal and tile are more fire resis- with her husband and young son. people to help take continually being things make a big difference. tant than asphalt for roofing. It’s the lead. We will also improved. Now you You can’t do it at the last minute. actually rated the same. Vinyl FIRESMART CANADA be selling community can purchase new Do it in advance.” siding is more vulnerable than HOMEOWNERS’ membership cards. memberships and Buildings almost never ignite cement fiber board and stucco,” RESOURCE PAGE book rentals online, from radiant heat. If your neigh- said Westhaver. bour’s house is on fire, the flames Zumba nights and we’ll soon have Older homes have more nooks firesmartcanada.ca/ are unlikely to leap to your and crannies for embers to fall resources-library/ Zumba nights will up-to-date postings house. The real danger comes into and ignite, such as vents category/manuals start soon at the hall on community news from flying embers landing on and other openings. Look for every Tuesday at and events on our your property and igniting flam- 7 pm. Interested? blog. Email us at ewcl@ Visit us at www.east- shaw.ca and stay woodcommunity.org. tuned to our social media for more information to come!

Evergreens are highly combustible. | Nadine Riopel

AFFORDABLE CASINO EASTWOOD AGM Enjoy sports? ACCESS TO HAND VOLUNTEERS & POWER TOOLS NEEDED Wednesday, Oct. 4 at 7 Alberta Avenue pm. Discuss community Community League is matters, connect with looking for people to If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, Alberta Avenue C.L., Feb members, participate in lead sports drop-ins. enjoy making things, or 2 & 3. Sign up: secre- the election. Internships available to want to connect with a [email protected] or post-secondary community of builders, 780.477.2773. students. check out the Edmonton Tool Library, edmonton- toollibrary.ca.

LEAGUE BINGO Commonwealth Interested in MEMBERSHIPS Pool Update cooking? VOLUNTEERS Maintenance is not There are opportunities The new member- NEEDED for cooking workshops, ship year started in complete so the pool neighbour cooking bees, September. Check with Help Eastwood closure continues into and collective kitch- your local league (see Community League by October. Check for ens at Alberta Avenue p.11) for benefits and how working a bingo at Fort opening date. Community League. to purchase or go to efcl. Road. Call 780.477.2354 org or email [email protected]. Brought to you in partnership with NorwoodNeighbourhoodAssociation.ca Volunteer & Notices Volunteer RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 11 ood yourcommunity ws league!

DELTON COMMUNITY LEAGUE

12325 88 Street 780.477.3326 www.deltoncommunity.com

Elmwood Park 12139 105 ST WESTWOODfree [email protected] COMMUNITY COMMUNITY LEAGUE 780.474.1979

Haunted House FREE FAMILY Annual General PROGRAMS Meeting Membership Rates Zumba Fitness Monday Family $20 Mondays 8-9 pm Oct. 25 Single $10 Nordic Pole Walking 7pm Senior Free Mon & Wed, 2:30-3:30 pm Friday, Oct. 20 at 7 pm Buy on website PiYo Live Tuesdays, 7:15-8:30 pm We don’t want cost to be a barrier. If you Drop-in Sports would like a Details TBA, looking for volunteers AnnualANNUAL General GENERAL Meeting of the SpruceMEETING Avenue membership but Multicultural Cooking Nights Saturday Community League will be heldTuesday, cannot spare the cash, Tuesday, October 24th @ 7pm just let us know. Want to come lead a class? October 28 October 25th @ 7pm. We encourage you to We encourage you to attend. Purchase your 5pm attend MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS membership by calling 780.479.8019. *Free borrowing of various resource and block party kits. *Free print, photocopying & faxing during office hours. Fire pit, hot 10240 115 Avenue *Free access at Commonwealth on Sat 5-7 pm & Sun 1-3 pm beverages & snacks 780.471.1932 [email protected] www.albertaave.org | www.fb.com/albertaavenue Want to help set up? spruceavenuecommunity.com 9210 118 Ave | 780.477.2773 | [email protected] 780.479.1035 12 RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 Composer makes rooftop music at Kaleido Vivian Fung premieres Humanoid on Alberta Avenue rooftop. age of seven, that she began The Juilliard School, a world- that younger people are think- HAMDI ISSAWI Commissioned in part by Arts composing to avoid piano prac- renowned conservatory in New ing about,” Fung said. “I think on the Ave, the performance is tice. York. Over the next 10 years, that’s wonderful. You learn California-based composer broken into three parts. First, “I was like any other kid, she went on to earn a doctorate from both sides.” Vivian Fung is known for weav- the cellist takes on a machine- starting lessons and really hating in music composition, and then It’s that openness to new expe- ing disparate influences into like sound by responding via practice, and my mom would stayed to teach music theory and rience Fung hopes to inspire in her music. But her latest proj- the cello to electrical noise. be in the kitchen trying to make composition for another eight Humanoid’s audiences during ect, Humanoid, represents her Then, robotic effects, which sure I practiced,” she recalled. years. the tour across North America first major piece for electronics, include the recorded voices of “So I would start making up Since then, an interest in this year. bringing a cellist in dialogue Fung and her two-year-old son, stuff and my mom thought, diverse cultures and their music “Just having an open ear and with pre-recorded machine are included. The performance ‘Great, she’s practicing.’ ” has taken Fung all over the an open mind and just taking sounds for a 13-minute perfor- closes with the cellist engaged But Fung’s piano teacher was world, from China’s Yunnan it in,” she said. “Whatever you mance. in a fast-paced, virtuosic show- also a composer, one who rec- province, where she researched take away from that is your own “I’m trying to stretch the down against sound effects and ognized Fung’s potential and the folk songs of minority cul- experience. Actually, I would boundary of what is possible a drum beat. taught her how to write music. tures, to Bali, where she toured love to hear about it.” with a single cello,” Fung said. “Cello is close to my heart With a new skill and passion, with a gamelan ensemble. Visit Fung’s web- “How many ways can you have because I know the instrument she spent much of her child- Her experience with the latter site at www.vivianfung.ca. an interaction between machine very well,” explained Fung, who hood (particularly Edmonton’s inspired a violin concerto that and cellist? That was my idea played the cello in high school. chilly winters) composing and won the 2013 for Hamdi is a journalism student behind the piece.” “The sound, the timbre of the crafting elaborate title pages and best classical composition of the at MacEwan University. He Last month, audiences heard instrument—it’s very dear to backstories for her music—arti- year. cut his teeth as a contributor on the answer at the Kaleido me.” facts she has kept. Today she lives in San Jose Terra Informa, an award-win- Family Arts Festival for the And the location is important “My imagination went wild with her husband and their son ning, environmental news maga- Canadian premiere. Rafael too. The rooftop of her parents’ with that,” Fung said. “It was Julian, composing and teach- zine. He has also written for The Hoekman, principal cellist building on 91 Street and 118 my outlet. I was a pretty intro- ing composition to students at Gateway Online and The Griff. for the Edmonton Symphony Avenue served as the stage. verted kid.” Santa Clara University. Find Hamdi on Twitter @ham- Orchestra, performed the piece Fung grew up in Spruce But that didn’t stop her from “It’s great because then I can diissawi. outside, on an Alberta Avenue Avenue. It was here, at the early leaving home at 17 to attend also explore the new things

Edmonton-born composer Vivian Fung created Humanoid, a piece for cello and electronics, that cellist Rafael Hoekman played at the 2017 Kaleido Family Arts Festival. | Supplied by Vivian Fung RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 13 The decision to embark on a self-love project Turning criticism into love is an ongoing battle inside, I have been hypercritical I learned many of them did this Some posts included old have posted similar pictures of NICOLA DAKERS about my appearance. to themselves as well. How sad photos, like the photo of me themselves on my page in soli- My life has been a mixture of that so many of us go through crossing the finish line at my darity. From as far back as I can eating disorders, obsessive diet- our lives being such harsh crit- first gold medal race, where I have not cracked the code remember, I have never felt ing and exercise, self-hate, self- ics of ourselves. I then spent the next three to fully loving myself yet, but good enough. By the time I ridicule, and shame about my With this in mind, I decided months criticizing how fat I I feel it is beginning to take reached adolescence, that looks. I could hide my other to post pictures of myself that looked. How silly to waste my shape. I am going to continue feeling intensified to feelings imperfections, cover it in my I would otherwise criticize or time on my appearance when I posting these pictures until the of complete unworthiness. skin, hide it behind my persona hide because they showed too blew away the competition at day I never waiver on my own Although therapy and life expe- or by the deeds I do for others. much stomach fat, too much a race! Other photos were new sense of self love while staring rience helped heal some of that My appearance, however, could thigh wobble, bags under my ones taken in bad lighting, or at my image. In the meantime, trauma, a lingering sense of not be completely erased. eyes, or moments when I felt at the gym during moments of there is nothing like solidarity personal dislike still lies within. Over the years, I have com- exhausted, defeated, or hurt. defeat, and even a hand-drawn to make someone feel loved. There has always been an mented on almost all of my But this time with each picture one of me working out amidst invisible glass wall that sepa- Facebook photos about how I posted, I included a declara- the Edmonton Eskimos foot- Nicola has lived in the Alberta rates my true talents and fat I was or how tired I looked tion that I was going to love ball players while I curled 15 Avenue community for 10 years. self from the outside world. or how old I was getting. The myself anyway. Although at pounds and felt like a hobbit. She likes writing, reading, his- However, this wall cannot hide photos I hadn’t commented on first it was a hopeful whisper, The reactions from my tory, painting, gardening, ani- what people can see on the out- still elicited feelings of being before long it was a defiant Facebook friends have been mals, getting lost in the woods, side. To prevent people from ugly and unlovable. After shar- blast into the canyons of the predominantly positive. Better and the awesome people in her seeing what I felt about myself ing this feeling with my friends, universe. yet, friends and neighbours community.

AMANDA SOKAL

One of Nicola’s pictures from her self-love project on Facebook. | Nicola Dakers HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM THE RAT CREEK Tuesday,, OOctober 331, 2017 5::00 tto 88::00 ppm PRESS Parkdale School Grounds 11648-85 St

* Fortune Teller * Fireworks * Zombie run N o r w e s t * Haunted Hallway INSURANCE * Hot Dogs AGENCIES LTD * Hayride * Storytelling Tipi Auto * Home * Business * Life RRSP * Travel Insurance Food Bank donation Real Estate box on site. 11734 95 St 780.477.9191

For more information Serving this community 780.481.3451 www.bentarrow.ca since 1976 14 RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 Why you need to stand out in a job search Reflecting on a long stretch of unemployment

MARK PARSONS

Four hundred and four. See, I only have an advantage employer abruptly ends all If you are reading this and and that’s OK, but you have to The number stares back at over non-industry people. I’m communication with those are struggling to find work, you act on it. Get out of your own me from the screen, its audacity competing against hundreds of within the recruitment pro- are probably waiting for me way. I’m painfully aware self- fit for the Neon Sign Museum. people just like me. Hundreds cess and then reposts the job. to impart some life-changing discovery does not put food on How does someone who has of people with thousands of It’s frustrating to see the same advice to help you stand out the table. Every rational bone spent over 10,000 hours pour- hours of experience doing the role you haven’t heard back from the crowd, and here it is: in your body is going to fight it. ing over resumes, interviewing exact same work as I have done. from be posted again. While I can’t answer that. Whatever it But I firmly believe there is no candidates, and hiring people I’m not special. I do not stand it’s something I would never do is that you do must be authentic such thing as a lack of resources, apply for 404 jobs and not land out. If someone put four burg- as an HR professional, I have or recruiters will sniff you out only a lack of resourcefulness. a single one? By most mea- ers in front of you, which one a theory: they are waiting for as a fake. My advice? Spend an Things may feel awful right sures, I would be considered an would you pick? They came someone who stands out. obscene amount of time build- now, but with some tough expert. I know what recruiters from different places, but all With the recent economic ing your own self-awareness. choices, it will get better. look for. In any other industry, have the same ingredients—all downturn, many people are What are you really good at? my level of insider knowledge the ones you like, and none of looking for work. The skills What is something you do Born and raised in Edmonton, would put me on a fraud watch- the ones you don’t. Which one and abilities of people in each that feels effortless, but makes Mark is a HR professional, list. I should have an advantage do you pick? Or do you pick profession of each industry is a other people stand up and take writer, artist, and entrepreneur. so overwhelming that Floyd one at all? bell curve. Some, quite frankly, notice? If you don’t know, ask He is also the founder of Multi Mayweather would be jealous. A seemingly recent tactic suck. Some are exceptional. But people. Menu Edmonton, a local com- So why can’t I find employ- of employers is something I most of us are in the middle— These answers may not align pany that brings the pet store to ment? I don’t stand out. call the ghost and repost. The and boy, is it crowded! with your current career path your door.

vote on oct 16 for

City Councillor ward 7 RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017 15

WHAT’S ON IN OCTOBER

EASTWOOD HARVEST JAZZ JAMS: FEATURING HEADLESS CARROT OPEN MIC FAMILY CELEBRATION THE LEAH HARMAN Oct. 28, 7 pm. | The Carrot Saturdays, 6:30 pm. Sign up Oct. 1, 2-5 pm. | Eastwood QUARTET Coffeehouse (9351 118 Ave). upon arrival to guarantee park area (11803 86 St). Oct. 5, 7-9:30 pm |The Carrot An evening of spook-tacular a spot. | The Carrot Coffeehouse. (9351 118 Ave) fun for young adults and Coffeehouse. COFFEE WITH COPS Begin with a 45 min set from adults. Prizes for best Oct. 3, 10-11 am | The The Leah Harman Quartet, costume! Music, treats, PRO WRESTLING Carrot Coffeehouse (9351 versatile in styles such games, D.J., and more! First Saturday of the month. | 118 Ave). Join a roundtable as jazz combo, big band, Licensed event (must be Alberta Avenue. Tickets: $20. conversation with EPS. jazz, funk, punk, and Latin. AOTA member & min. 18 More: monsterprowrestling. Performance followed by years old to buy alcohol). com. THE CARROT GALLERY an inclusive jam session. $5 OPENING: CHAMPIONS OF cover. ENTERTAINMENT SAVE THE DATE AB AVE Oct. 4, 7 pm | The Carrot DRIVE-IN ON THE AVE 5 PIN BOWLING EDMONTON POTTERS Coffeehouse (9351 118 Ave) | Oct. 8 | Alberta Ave parking Every day, 10 am-10 pm. GUILD SALE FREE lot | Plaza Bowl. Nov. 18 | Alberta Avenue Ab Ave has a long history. Arts on the Ave pays tribute RUMMAGE ART & CRAFT THE CARROT CHRISTMAS to this history through MARKET ARTS BAZAAR their project “Champions Oct. 14, 9 am-3 pm | Nov. 17-18 | The Carrot of Alberta Ave.” During Parkdale-Cromdale Coffeehouse (9351 118 Ave) October, see a special Community League (11335 gallery of photos and stories 85 St). RED SPARROW ANNUAL honouring the multicultural OPEN HOUSE & ARTISAN businesses and diverse HIP HOP SHOWCASE FEAT. SALE gastronomy of Ab Ave. THE VICE VERSER Nov. 25 - 26 | Red Sparrow Oct. 18, 7 pm | The Carrot Gallery (11209-65 street) Coffeehouse (9351 118 Ave) | www.redsparrowgallery.com Pay what you can. KARAOKE Hosted by Locution Wednesday to Saturday, 9 Revolution, October’s Hip pm-2 am. | Mona Lisa’s Pub. Hop Showcase features The Vice Verser and an open LIVE MUSIC stage for hip hop artists, Fridays, 7:30-9:30 pm. Cover: rappers, spoken word, and $5, children free. | The Carrot poets. Rated PG. Coffeehouse. www.LSHULBA.com FREE COMMUNITY PROGRAMS Brought to you in partnership with NorwoodNeighbourhoodAssociation.ca

billiards. Wednesdays 11:30 am - 12:45 pm ESL & LANGUAGE PARENTS & YOUTH (10:30-11:45 am during the summer) at Crystal Kids. PRACTICE ENGLISH PRE-SCHOOLERS EVIL GENIUS CLUB Conversation circle, Mondays 7-8 pm at Robot battles, Arduino hacks, DIY music, Sprucewood Library. GROWING TOGETHER art, Minecraft, photography, 3-D design & A free drop-in group for pregnant women and printing are just the beginning for this club. FAMILIES ESL ENGLISH LESSONS women with babies up to 3 months of age. Free Fridays, 4-5 pm Highlands Library. Thursdays from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at resources including milk coupons and prenatal POP-UP MAKERSPACE Parkdale-Cromdale. Returning in September. vitamins. Tuesdays 1:30-3 pm at Norwood TEEN LOUNGE Makey Makey hack, DIY music, Art, 3-D design Centre. More: 780.471.3737. Play video games, make a DIY project, or and more. First Wednesday of the month from ALL-AGES SPANISH LESSONS just hang out. Thursdays, 6:00-8:30 pm. at 6:30-7:30 pm at Highlands Library. Free every Monday from 6-7:30 pm at Parkdale STAY AND PLAY Sprucewood Library. hall. Free indoor play space and unstructured group BOARD GAMES NIGHT for parents and children. Snack included. GLOBAL GIRLS Plenty of games to choose from or bring your GLOBAL VOICES CHOIR Mondays 10 am - noon at Norwood Centre. Build new relationships, develop a sense own. Last Tuesday of the month 6:30 pm at An informal way to practice English. No of self-confidence and identify pathways to The Carrot. experience with singing or English is required. BABES IN ARMS be able to achieve your goals. Every other Light lunch is provided. Thursdays noon - 1 pm A wonderful casual parent group Fridays 10 Thursday, 3:15 - 5:30 pm at the Mennonite FAMILY ART NIGHT at Mennonite Centre. No program in August. am - noon at The Carrot. Centre. Register: 780.423.9691. A variety of free art activities for school age More: Suzanne 780.423.9682. children accompanied by adults. Thursdays, PARENTING & LITERACY 6:30-8 pm at The Nina. ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE English classes, free childcare, parent-child TEEN LOUNGE JR. Fridays, 10:30-12 pm at Highlands Library. Part activities, parenting support. Tuesday and Play video games, make a DIY project, meet of Catholic Social Services LACE program. Thursday, 9:30 - 12 pm from Sept 19 to Dec 7 at friends. Thursdays, 3:30-5 pm at Sprucewood MUSIC LESSONS BY CREART More: 780-424-3545. Norwood Centre. Register 780.471.3737. Library, 3:30-4:30 pm at Highlands Library. Free group music lessons Saturdays at Parkdale-Cromdale from 10 am to 12 pm. More: LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION FOR NEWCOMERS SING, SIGN, LAUGH & LEARN [email protected] or 587.336.5480. TO CANADA (LINC) Mondays and Tuesdays 10:30 am at More: Edmonton Mennonite Centre Sprucewood Library. Wednesdays and FREE COMMUNITY REC ACCESS 780.423.9522 or [email protected] Thursdays, 10:30 am at Highlands Library. ADULTS Community league members have free access More: 780.496.7099. at Commonwealth Rec Centre on Saturdays AVENUE BOOK CLUB from 5-7 pm and/or Sundays from 1-3 pm. FOOD & SUPPORT BABY LAPTIME Meets the first Wednesday of each month 7 pm Check with your league. Stories, songs, books, rhymes, finger play for at The Carrot. More: Lorraine 780.934.3209. COFFEE WITH COPS baby up to 12 months. Tuesdays 10:15-10:45 First Tuesday of each month from 10-11 am at am at Highlands Library COFFEE FRIENDSHIP CLUB The Carrot. Wednesdays, 11 am- 2 pm. | The Carrot FAMILY STORYTIME Coffeehouse (9351 118 Ave). Have coffee LOCATIONS PRAYERWORKS COMMUNITY Share stories, songs and games. Wednesdays, with individuals who are single, divorced, Hot meals & warm friendship at St.Faith’s/ 10:30-11 am at Sprucewood Library. or widowed and looking to meet new people St.Stephen’s Anglican Church hall. Thurs: in Delton, Eastwood, Parkdale-Cromdale, Community Leagues - see page 12 serving 11 am-1 pm; open 10 am-1:30 pm. Westwood, Spruce Ave, and Ab Ave. St. Faith/St.Stephen Church 11725 93 St Fri: serving 5-6 pm; open 3:30-6:30 pm. Sat: Highlands Library 6710 118 Ave serving 8:30-9:30 am; open 8-10 am. Meals CHILDREN COMMUNITY ART NIGHT start Oct.6. More: 780.477.5931. Free art workshop for adults. Tuesdays 6:30- Sprucewood Library 11555 95 St LEGO AT THE LIBRARY 8:30 pm at The Nina. Norwood Family Centre 9516 114 Ave COLLECTIVE KITCHEN Design and build a lego creation. Ages Cook with friends, try new recipes, help 6-12.Saturdays 3-4 pm at Carrot Coffeehouse 9351 118 Ave your food budget. St. Faith/St. Stephen: Highlands Library. SENIORS The Nina 9225 118 Ave Cost: $3. Second Tuesday: 1-3:30 pm. Trish Norwood Legion 11150 82 St 780.464.5444. Third Wednesday, 5:30-8 pm. GIRL GUIDES NORWOOD LEGION SENIORS GROUP Amanda: 587.930.8238. Call ahead. Girl Guides meeting Mondays from Cribbage, Wednesdays at 1 pm at Crystal Kids 8715 118 Ave Parkdale Hall: Last Sunday of the month. September to June at St. Andrew’s. More: Norwood Legion. St. Andrew’s Church 8715 118 Ave Check parkdalecromdale.org for details. [email protected] or 1.800.565.8111 (answered locally). SENIORS BREAKFAST & SOCIAL (55+) Bethel Gospel 11461 95 St Join us for breakfast, visit, play cards, or Mennonite Centre 11713 82 St 16 RAT CREEK PRESS . OCTOBER 2017

I am a father, husband, crime fighter, problem solver and resident of Ward 7 — this community is my home. There’s work to do and it is my hope to serve you on Edmonton City Council. Ward 7 needs leadership and action. I have the knowledge and experience to get the job done.

KrisAndreychuk Kris_Andreychuk VoteAndreychuk

780-249-6119 There’s Work To Do. [email protected]

There’s still time to join my campaign! To display a sign, volunteer or donate check out voteandreychuk.ca!