BINGO at Alberta Avenue

DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006

your free COMMUNITY newspaper

ALBERTA AVENUE DELTON EASTWOOD ELMWOOD PARK SS PARKDALE SPRUCE AVENUE CREEK PRES WESTWOOD RATRAT CREEK PRES BUILDING COMMUNITY . ENCOURAGING COMMUNICATION . INCREASING CAPACITY

CIRCULATION 8,500

FEATURE Alberta Avenue Divided over Bingo:

It’s an Old-Fashioned Is Bingo a Fundraiser or a Program? Christmas By Karen Mykietka this community, not on having Christmas Tree Memories to fight out everything.” “You know, you’re not so bad.” How did things get to this Approaching the Winter That’s what Chris Zuk said to point? Lack of communication, Solstice me as we chatted after picking up mistrust, rumours, animosity, children at Norwood School. Our assumptions and judgments. We Norwood Timber Wolves conversation started the night talk to our “allies” and spread Grade 4 Class before after the Alberta Avenue dissension instead of talking to Community League meeting the person we have an issue The Miracle of Hanukkah - a meeting that was attended with. Or we make decisions that Reaching Out & Growing by over 50 people. Attendance affect others without consulting in God’s Love - the was fuelled by the rumour there them or even trying to under- would be a vote to close down FAITH & TRADITIONS & FAITH Promise of St Faith’s stand their perspectives. People bingo. Each “camp” (pro-bingo People need to talk - not to likeminded folk but to people need to talk - not to likeminded and anti-bingo) mobilized their with different opinions - and more importantly they folk but to people with different “supporters”. Russ Dahms from need to really listen to one another. opinions - and more importantly BRIEFINGS the Edmonton Federation of they need to really listen to one Community Leagues chaired the another. This type of dialogue is discussion on Bingo. Emotions essential if we are ever going to A Year in Review ran high and passionate “speech- find common ground; if we are We have turned a joint es” were made from various indi- to do what is in the best interest organizational newsletter in viduals. of the whole community. financial crisis into a dynamic Chris and I encountered one Eight people have the task of and vibrant community another last year when we were evaluating the bingo “program” newspaper that is building both involved on the community and reporting back with rec- community, encouraging com- league board. We didn’t like each ommendations at the December munication and increasing other. Why? For no good rea- meeting. It is not in the best capacity. son, we’d never even had a real interest of the community for conversation. I had preconceived there to be a mobilization con- Avenue Initiative Update notions about Chris because of that we have started sharing these unable to contain her frustra- test where the side who gets The Avenue Initiative Revital- her relationship to other people and listening to one another. tion anymore, cried out “Why the most people out to vote ization Strategy has passed two at the board whom I’d heard At Alberta Avenue’s is this being polarized into ‘us’ wins. The financial situation of tests-the Community Services bad things about and because of November league meeting, ten- and ‘them’ camps. I understand bingo and the league dictate that Committee and City Council- her connection to bingo. Chris sion was high. It took over an this isn’t the first time this has changes need to be made. Many with flying colours. apparently had heard horrible hour for those present to craft happened with respect to bingo. great minds are at the table. I’m things about me through the and pass a motion that appoint- The rumours flying around are absolutely positive if we worked Our Appreciation To… rumour mill. Assumptions and ed an ad-hoc committee to eval- ridiculous. For God’s sake, we together we could find a way to It takes close to 200 hours to judgments were made on both uate the bingo program. I’m sure are all neighbours here...neigh- balance bingo as a mean to an produce an issue of the Rat our parts. Our actions and words some people came away from bours who share the same issues end (fundraiser for the league Creek Press. were always interpreted through the meeting with a better under- - crime, prostitution, and a desire to run other programs and ini- these filters, so we though the standing of other perspectives for something better in here. tiatives) and bingo as an end Liquior Store Revisited other person had malicious and views. It’s just as likely some Frankly, we are on the verge of in itself (a program that meets Parkdale/Cromdale Commun- motives or intent. We have dif- people left “hot under the collar” something great in our com- social needs for some people in ity League took it to a vote. ferent values, interests, opinions with animosity, prejudice and munity [reference to the Avenue our community). and perspectives on many issues lack of understanding. At one Initiative] and that’s where our And Chris, you’re not so bad but it’s only in the last few weeks point president Trish Filevich, focus needs to be, on building either. I think I even like you.

CONTENTS We invite you to come and A committed group of at least Artists on the Avenue visit; see the artwork, listen 12 artists will be displaying Editorial 2 SHOW AND SALE to music from area musi- their work. The Artists on the News & Views 3 cians and find something that Avenue (AoA) are excited for this Neighbourhood Voice 4 would be perfect for your- event, as well as the future, with Pet Corner 5 Saturday, December 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. self, your home or as a gift. a community-based gallery/ Local Business 6, 7 Sunday, December 11 from 12 noon to 5 p.m. We think everyone who sees studio run by this dedicated Faith & Traditions 8-11 the show will be absolutely group. AoA is looking for Resident Profile 12 R R impressed with the calibre of artists who are interested in Out of This World 13 At the Alberta Avenue Business Association talent we have here in our sharing studio/gallery space. Sports & Fitness 15 11770 – 95 Street neighbourhood! Call Shelly 477.7473. Community Notices 16 RAT CREEK PRESS RAT CREEK PRESS HISTORY Box 39024 RPO Norwood By Kate Quinn Edmonton, AB T5B 4T8 780.479.6285 Our His-Story or should I say [email protected] Rat-Story: How it all began

Volume 7 . Issue 9 The idea of a community news- December 2005/January 2006 paper took shape with people in the community like Rene MANAGING EDITOR EDITORIAL Ladsous and Marie Renaud Karen Mykietka who were then involved with EDITOR Alberta Avenue Community Dawn Freeman A Year in Review League and the Women’s DESIGNER Economic Business Solutions Michelle Hayduk By Karen Mykietka did not received the paper into area coordinators (one for each Society (WEBS) respectively. AD REP which we put many hours of neighborhood) and around 60 Renaud proposed a commu- Joy Dyck Bringing New Life to the Paper slave labour. block carriers. nity newspaper financed by DISTRIBUTION The Rat Creek has taken up The paper grew from 8 Just as the paper was get- organizational contributions Coordinator Needed hundreds of hours of my life pages in November to 12 pages ting organized and stable we and set out to gain support. over the last year but the paper in January to 16 pages in March. incurred more change. Theresa, Some of the first contributors was keeping me up at night Now, the majority of issues are our designer, left after the included Success By 6, Alberta long before I volunteered to 16 pages although occasionally September issue for a 6 month Avenue Community League, BOARD MEMBERS work on it. Every month when we do a 12 pager. The circula- trip to India. Michelle Hayduk, Alberta Avenue Business I got my issue, my mind would tion of the paper increased from a new Parkdale resident, took Association and Norwood Kathleen Quinn, PAAFE be spinning with ideas and pos- 7000 to 8500. It now includes over. Elaine left distribution in Neighbourhood Association Peter Rausch, AABA sibilities, with vision and hope the communities of Alberta October, and we are still with- along with WEBSS. PAAFE Jill Oliver, Alberta Avenue for a community paper. Finally, Avenue, Delton, Eastwood, out a distribution coordinator. joined the partner team Margaret Guthrie, Norwood I succumbed and decided to Elmwood Park, Parkdale, Spruce From the start, my goal was later, sharing partner space Verna Stainthorp, Spruce try making some of my grand Avenue and Westwood (exclud- to build a community newspa- with the Alberta Avenue Avenue visions reality. ing the Westwood apartments) per for the community by the Neighbourhood Patrol. Cheryl Walker, Parkdale In August 2004, I volun- as well as businesses along 111 community. Efforts to get all 7 The first issue of the Rat teered to get the Rat Creek Press & 118 Avenues and 82 & 95 community leagues as partners Creek Press was printed in finances in order as no one had Streets. The paper frequency failed - only 3 of the 7 leagues May 1999 with Jacquelyn been taking responsibility for also changed from 6 to 10 issues were interested. Vandenborn as staff editor. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED them for some time. In doing a year. The five partners decided Several years later, Jacquelyn so, I discovered the paper was the best course of action would served as the rep for the The Rat Creek Press in financial crisis and called a be to incorporate as a non- Alberta Avenue Community needs board members, partner meeting. The partners We have turned a profit society. This provides Rat League, hosting many meet- writers, reporters, distribution discussed options included shut- joint organizational Creek Press with a more formal ings to stabilize the finances of coordinator and a calendar ting down the paper. Everyone newsletter in financial structure and the opportunity the paper. coordinator. Please call felt it was important to keep crisis into a dynamic to recruit board members from When the paper first 479.6285 or email at the paper going so my offer and vibrant across the community. It also started, it was decided that the [email protected] to revamp and reorganize the community newspaper enables us to tap into more first page would run a histori- paper was gladly accepted. that is building funding sources. cal story. In keeping with this I left the meeting a lit- community, encouraging the founders chose a historical tle freaked out that I had to communication and Where We Are Today name. Rat Creek used to run increasing capacity. MISSION somehow get a paper produced We have turned a joint orga- between the Boyle McCauley and distributed in three weeks, nizational newsletter in finan- area and the Norwood area. It The mission of the and I was starting from scratch The paper which started cial crisis into a dynamic and ran from 97 Street just south Rat Creek Press Association with nothing and no one. I put with a handful of writers has vibrant community newspaper of Norwood Boulevard east is to highlight community news, the word out that we needed now had over 30 different con- that is building community, to Kinnard Ravine and into activities, and recreational a designer. Thankfully, Theresa tributors. In March, we did a encouraging communication the river. Rat Creek became opportunities as well as local McBryan responded and accept- feature on Development and and increasing capacity. a dump and was eventually residents and businesses ed the job which came with lots liked this format so much we The paper is financially via- covered and paved over as for the purpose of building of hours and no pay. decided to do a feature in each ble and self-sustaining in terms Norwood Boulevard. a strong, vibrant, well- Now for an editor…Dawn issue. We now have features of production costs. There is Jackie Ryan was the next connected community. Freeman, who I met at Norwood scheduled until August 2006. usually enough profit per issue incredible woman to take up Centre, came to mind as I knew With the support the Norwood to give production team mem- the Herculean task of editing she did some writing and edit- Neighbourhood Association, bers a small honorarium. But and producing the Rat Creek ing on a local book. I was try- Rat Creek organized a series of the workload of the paper has Press, while Arlene Kemble got OUR WEBSITE ing to track down her contact 5 Journalism Workshops in May outgrown its volunteer base. it delivered to your door when information when I by chance and June 2005 for current and The paper is also at the point of there was little involvement www.ratcreek.org ran into her a Value Village. I potential writers. needing staff as it is not reason- by the partners and very few It’s a work in progress. suckered her into volunteering In March, Joy Dyck joined able to ask volunteers to con- reliable volunteers. We thank Check it out. as well! the team as Ad Rep. This was tinue putting in the number of them for their dedication. greatly needed as I not able to hours that they are to produce What Happened Next devote adequate time to adver- the paper. We started with virtually no tising with all the other respon- Now we are incorporated UPCOMING ISSUES money. Thankfully we were in sibilities I had on my plate. as a non-profit society. We need AD RATES the middle of a provincial elec- Getting the paper to more board members; board FEBRUARY tion campaign and I was able to over 7000 homes has been members who will guide the The price per column Families get some substantial ads. We also the greatest challenge. Elaine future of the paper, who will inch is $7.75 MARCH recruited new partners which Mantua joined as Distribution search for funding sources, and Business card size is $40.00 Health & Wellbeing helped. We pulled off producing Coordinator in May. Thanks to who will help the Rat Creek 2 column square is $60.00 APRIL our first issue but unfortunately her we now have a fairly good continue to meet its three goals 3 column by 3.5” is $80.00 Around the House encountered major distribu- system in place which includes of community, communication 1/4 page banner is $150.00 tion problems and many homes a distribution coordinator, 7 and capacity. 1/2 page is $300.00

RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 NEWS AND VIEWS Unanimous Support for Revitalization

By Karen Mykietka Council couldn’t believe all business to funneling residential that was accomplished in such tax growth back into the area “…most visitors to our city, IN THE 2006 BUDGET The Avenue Initiative Revital- a short time. Mayor Stephen to federal urban development never see our neighbour- ization Strategy has passed two Mandel requested the process agreements. . $100,000 for developing hood beyond our commercial tests – the Community Services be documented as an example The 2006 budget includes a business plan corridors or main arterial Committee and City Council that can be used by other com- over $700,000 in extra fund- . $95,000 for an implemen- – with flying colours. It still munities. “I thank Council for ing for short-term initiatives (see roads. It’s hardly a face to tation coordinator has to pass the mid-term – City the $100,000 grant they gave to sidebar) but the bulk of the . $400,000 for staged pedes- show the world …Our north Council’s 2006 budget delib- get the process going. It couldn’t revitalization work would hap- trian level lighting along central neighbourhoods have erations and the final exam have been done without it,” say pen between 2007 and 2010. the street question – Where to find $20 Melnychuk. Because of the lead time needed been paying the price for . $100,000 for new business million? in the planning and budgeting facades the continued expansion The price tag on the revi- Wisdom from Michael process, Melnychuk is pushing . Additional police of the city, especially to the talization plan is actually $27.3 Boyd, new Chief of Police, for a business plan report by June resources: A Community south. Investing in this ini- million. The transportation that applies to a lot more 2006. Liaison Constable and a department already had $7.3 No one wants to lose any tiative is really only paying than just policing: civilian analyst million planned for road work of the momentum and interest back what’s long overdue... on 118 Avenue in 2008. Another so the work continues. The next “My belief is that polic- NAIT and Northlands con- $20 million is needed to upgrade community meeting is scheduled AVENUE INITIATIVE the basic road work to the ing, especially community for December 12 (see sidebar). tinue to expand and undergo CELEBRATION streetscape plan which came out policing…is all about con- If you want to have a voice in improvements. To ignore of Dan Burden’s design charette. tact that leads to commu- the process, now is the time Monday, December 12th what’s in between is like The enhanced plan is supposed nication, and communi- to come out. At this meeting from 7-8:30pm buying gold-plated bookends to transform the Avenue into a cation leads to an ability people will have the opportunity Parkdale Hall 11335-86 St community-oriented pedestrian- to sign up for a work group of 7:00 and then throwing out all to trust. When you have friendly road from Gretzgy to trust, there is nothing interest: Streetscape; Safe Streets; Mingle and Refreshments the books on the shelf. The NAIT. Beautification and Cleanliness; 7:30 in a community that you bookends without the books Janice Melnychuk, ward 3 Development & Revitalization; Getting started: councillor, was thrilled with the can’t accomplish.” and Programs and Services. look silly and are diminished Implementation reception the strategy received The rest of the revitalization 8:00 by the absence between them. from Community Services. “It “The administration has process will be guided by a new Join a work group: your Don’t treat the Avenue or us had such a positive response. made a commitment to see this 12 member steering committee opportunity to get involved as if either weren’t there.” I was so gratified.” A couple through and fully support the comprised of Councillors Janice . Streetscape weeks later, the strategy was initiative.” And they are put- Melnychuk and Ed Gibbons; . Safe Streets Excerpt of presentation passed unanimously without ting money behind their words. 1 representative from each . Beautification and maybe by David Stockburger, questions at City Council which Council approved $100,000 league (Alberta Ave, Eastwood, Cleanliness Norwood Resident, to the Melnychuk says is “such a vote to hire a consultant who will Parkdale/Cromdale, Spruce . Development and Community Services Commit- of confidence for the work the research a variety of ways council Avenue & Westwood); and 1 Revitalization tee Meeting on Nov 7, 2005. community did for the docu- can fund the $27 million revi- representative from each of the . Programs and Services ment.” talization from tax incentives for five working groups.

Spruce Ave Community Local Voice Added to Police Halloween Party Commission By Karen Mykietka 6 years but must be reappointed each year. COMMISSION Janice Melnychuk, Ward 3 City Melnychuk says, “My RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: Councillor, was appointed to responsibility is to go there and the Police Commission along represent City Council which . establishing broad policies with Councillor Karen Leibovici means I represent the public for the police service; of Ward 1 replacing Councillors interest.” She feels her strong . presenting the budget to Jane Batty and Dave Thiele who community background gives city council and allocating resigned their seats. Melnychuk her a good sense of what people is excited about serving on the want and need in regards to funds approved by council; commission; she applied to policing. But she says, “Don’t . issuing policy instructions serve as a public member seven call me yet! I don’t start until to the chief of police; years ago when she was a school January 1st.” . hiring the chief of police; trustee but didn’t even get an Michael Boyd, the new . working with the service interview. chief of police, also starts on The Edmonton Police January 1st. Boyd is a 35-year to establish priorities; Commission is a public body veteran of the Toronto Police . monitoring complaint with a governance role in the Service and describes himself as handling and discipline Trish Stephanuik as “Jeanie the Genie” at the Spruce Avenue oversight of the Edmonton a “community policing zealot”. by the chief; Community Halloween party. The Spruce Ave Community League Police Service. The Commission He vowed to visit every neigh- . dealing with complaints put on 2 Halloween parties this year: an early one for the under 12’s with is currently comprised of 7 mem- bourhood in the city in an effort stories, games, music and snacks, and a later one with dancing and bers who are citizens appointed to understand the problems and about policies and police a DJ for the 12-16 year-olds. from the community by City issues facing Edmonton. “This service and handling com Thanks to all the organizers and volunteers especially ‘Jeanie’ Council, and 2 members of City kind of chief is going to be very plaints about the chief.vvv and ‘Elvis’ (AKA Trish Stephanuik and Tony Flath) who hosted Council. The members may good for the Alberta Avenue and entertained at both of the parties. serve for a maximum period of area,” says Melnychuk.

RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 LETTERS FROM THE NEIGHBOURHOOD Our Appreciation To… Letter to the Editor It takes close to 200 hours to Park Community League, Alberta Avenue (north of 118th Dear Rat Creek Press Readers; For those north of 118th produce an issue of the Rat Creek Norwood Neighbourhood Avenue): I would like to encourage more Avenue, there is also the prob- Press – and these are volunteer Association and Spruce Avenue Margaret Larsen (Coordinator), people who are bothered by lem of CN rail. If you hear hours! This doesn’t even include Community League. Mike & Katherine Leclerc, the noise from the city centre a lot of reving noise some- the hours writers spend research- Margaret McDaid, Naomi airport to complain. They times in the evenings, you ing and crafting an article or the ADVERTISERS Arnold, Georgina & Amber will not otherwise stop fly- may not know that it is very hours people spend delivering It is the consistent support of our Hutscal, Kathleen Arnold, ing jets over our area, letting likely the trains, even farther the paper. regular advertisers that makes this Nicole Sokukawa, Audrey planes fly over an area every away from the tracks than community newspaper finan- Seabrook, Iles Wade & Jennifer five to ten minutes, or doing one would imagine being able PRODUCTION TEAM cially viable. So please whenever Keller, Barry & Tammy maintenance work on large to hear them. They say they Thank you doesn’t say enough! possible, support the paper by Lefebvre. planes or jets for hours on have some sort of committee supporting our advertisers. Tell Norwood: end. Those of us who have working on this. They are at Karen Mykietka, businesses you saw them in the Margaret Guthrie (Coordinator), been here since before January 472.3023, [email protected] Managing Editor Rat Creek Press. Lawrence Wallace, Rick of 2003 can remember a time or [email protected]. Dawn Freeman, Editor McSparron, Heather Hamel, when there were almost no If we all take a few min- Joy Dyck, Ad Rep GOLD Steven Clark, Audra Franklin, planes directly east of the air- utes to contact these organiza- Theresa McBryan, Donna Strauss, Realty Walter Sumoski, Kim McLeod, port (in between the V shape tions to tell them when we Former Designer (who is spending Executives Challenge Kassandra Boisvert, Melanie of runways which point to the feel they are causing problems, 6 months in India) Absolutely Edibles Ustina, Rima Devitt, Mark northeast or southeast), instead then maybe we can make our Michelle Hayduk, Brian Mason, Woodhouse. of the couple of dozen heard community a quieter and more Current Designer MLA Highlands Norwood Delton: most days now. This means pleasant place to live. Elaine Mantua, Peter Goldring, Harvey Voogd (Coordinator), that they should still be able P.S. If contacting them past Distribution Coordinator MP Edmonton East Shelley Hoke, Oksana Yasynska, to operate well if they would doesn’t help, the mayor and city (who moved to St. Albert) Timothie Hill Hairdressing Mike Beaudry stick to flight paths in straight- councillors can be reached at Puppylove Drog Grooming Eastwood: er lines from the runways. They edmonton.ca. WRITERS Big Red Income Tax Fred Dicker (Coordinator), can be contacted at 890.8175 Thank-you. Thank you for enriching our com- The Blue Pear Melanie Piatocha, Tran Lam, (Lisa) or at doug.francoeur@ Audrey munity with words. As Margaret Blue Plate Diner Brad Derby, Kaye Strawberry, atcofrontec.com. Alberta Ave Resident Atwood said, “You need a certain Diane Muilwyk, Kaytlynne amount of nerve to be a writer.” SILVER Krossa, Joe Lane, Roger & Grace Solid Rock Church Pytel, Connie Higgins, Lois Kathleen Arnold ,Sheryl MetroTown Market Harper, Alton Crowell, David Boisvert, Cindy Burgess, Janet Chicago Joe’s Pizza & Pub Robinson, Lyall Steel, Tracy Buterman, Rima DeVitt, Patricia Balkan Style Sausage Deli & Brown Dunnigan, Justine Dyck, Barbeque House Elmwood Park: Carolyn Givens, Emily Guthrie, Red Wagon Photography John Hayes (Coordinator), Justin Harder, Parker Hogan, Christian Life Center Gabriele Wittenberg, Christine Christel Hus, Rita Jandrey, The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy Ritchie, Trevor Tremblay, Wade Rene Ladsous, Elaine Mantua, Arcade Flooring Neill, Rosanna Miatello, Marla John Masciuch, Gail Matheson, Eastwood Linda Maude, Christy Morin, CARRIERS Parkdale: Monique Nutter, Lana Phillips, Thank you to all those who Heather Syren (Coordinator), Tamara Raynor-Cote, Shelly help deliver the paper. Without Lil Waters, Laila Hussaini, Jamie Severson, Anna Marie Sewell, your help in getting the paper to Vilkas, Michelle Janvier, Bruce Tricia Stefanuik, Charlotte people’s doorstep, all the hours & Twilla Pigford, Lawrence Taverner, Melanie Ustina, put in by the production team Wallace Gordon Vickruck, Cheryl and writers would be for naught. Spruce Avenue: Walker Over 90% of our carriers are vol- Irene Mortensen (Coordinator), unteers! We truly appreciate all Christine Marthinsen, Elaine DONATIONS of you who will deliver the Rat Harcus, Susan McGee, Darlene Thank you to those organizations Creek over these winter months Sayers, Andrew Granger, Jerry who support us through dona- despite cold & snow. And com- White, Anna Smith, Carolyn & tions; Alberta Avenue Business munity, please understand there John Willat. Association, Alberta Avenue may be delivery delays during Westwood: Community League, Elmwood harsh weather. Stacey Anhorn

Spruce Avenue School’s Annual CHRISTMAS POINSETTIA SALE Incredible Poinsettias supplied by Hole’s Greenhouse Limited Supply

December 21, 2005………………………...... 10 am 11424-102 Street………………………….479-0155

RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 ADVERTORIAL Why 3/4 of Homesellers Don’t Get the Price They Want for Their Home EDMONTON - A new report what they want for their home 9 Step System to Get Your Home Bjorn & Brenda has just been released which and become disillusioned and - Sold Fast and For Top Dollar”. Café 10406-118 Ave Ph: 424-6823 reveals 7 costly mistakes that worse - financially disadvantaged To hear a brief recorded Deli 9567-118 Ave absolutelyedibles.com most homeowners make when when they put their home on the message about how to order selling their home, and a 9 Step market. your free copy of this report, System that can help you sell As this report uncovers, call 1-866-815-9646 and enter your home fast and for the most most homesellers make 7 deadly ID#4900. You can call anytime, amount of money. mistakes that cost them literally 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This industry report shows thousands of dollars. The good Call NOW to find out how clearly how the traditional ways news is that each and every one you can get the most money for of selling homes have become of these mistakes is entirely pre- your home. increasingly less and less effec- ventable. tive in today’s market. The fact In answer to this issue, This report courtesy of Donna Straus, of the matter is that fully three industry insiders have prepared a Realty Executive Challenge. Not intended quarters of homesellers don’t get free special report entitled “The to solicit properties already listed for sale.

ATTENTION PET OWNERS: Someone has been regularly leaving meat caches in the area of 89 Street and 118 Avenue. It is not known if the meat is tainted. There have also been uncon- firmed rumours of dead dogs found in dumpters. Please watch your pets and report anything suspicious to the local police station. It is not a good idea to put out food of any kind in the open even if you’re inten- tion is just to feed strays. Stray animals should be reported to the City Pound (496-8860) or SPCA (471-1774).

PET CORNER

I Want What You’re Having, FEATURED PET Love Fluffy By Trish Stefanuik Colgate-Palmolive Co.’s , Hill’s of healthy years. One way pets Science Diet, are known for can lose weight and maintain As many Canadians work to innovation. Now, mainstream muscle mass is by increasing the stay slim or find a meal that brands are promoting more level of protein in diets, some- will satisfy everyone, some healthy options. A Purina survey what mimicking the Atkins idea special members of the fam- found that six out of ten pets in recently popular with humans, ily are getting the same treat- the United States are overweight. companies said. Iams is intro- ment: cats and dogs. Animals ducing Smart Puppy food, with have become more like family docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, under what’s been dubbed the Animals have become more an omega 3 fatty acid that makes “humanization” of pets. Spending like family under what’s up about five percent of a pup- on pets in North America has been dubbed the py’s brain. DHA, which was more than doubled, according “humanization” of pets. introduced in a Eukanuba prod- to the American Pet Products Spending on pets in North uct last year and can be found Manufacturers Association. America has more than in other brands, can promote “People have adopted their dogs doubled, according to the cognitive function. Meanwhile, and cats as children and they American Pet Products dog owners looking for a meat- Name: Dennis want the same choices and selec- Manufacturers Association. free food, or just interested in Home: Spruce Avenue tions that they have for their the benefits of soy, have a new Owner: Bianca kids,” said Kurt Iverson, spokes- The company, part of Nestle option. Purina’s Beneful brand, Favorites: He loves feathers and chasing his friend Marvin. man for Procter & Gamble Co.’s SA, also found that feeding a a higher-end line, is introducing Dennis is 5 years old. Iams unit, which makes Iams dog to its ideal body condition Beneful Healthy Harvest, made and Eukanuba brands. Premium can extend its life up to two with soy-based proteins instead lines, such as Eukanuba and years, with a greater percentage of meat.

RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 LOCAL BUSINESS Business on the Avenue By Peter Rausch communities of Alberta Avenue. groups will help us design, plan Executive Director, AABA Council’s endorsement of and and most importantly imple- commitment to the Avenue ment the changes we want for Our Association and the “Artists Initiative will serve as a catalyst the area. on the Avenue” invite every- for positive change over the next As the New Year approaches, one to attend the first “Art on few years. The implementation we all should make a resolution the Avenue Show and Sale” on of this initiative will not only to participate in the next steps Saturday December 10th and bring “brick and mortar” chang- of the Avenue Initiative, or to Sunday December 11th. The es, but will provides us with the work with your local commu- event will feature a variety of opportunity to develop recom- nity league to ensure that we great artwork from a number mendations to address the issues restore dignity to this area. I of local visual artists. The Show and concerns of our area. believe that 2005 provided us and Sale runs from 10:00 am to In 2006 we will see improved with a solid base to develop a 6:00 pm on the Saturday and sidewalk lighting, increased community that we all want to from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm on policing and improvements to live and shop in. the Sunday. This event and the storefronts along the Avenue. Our Association would like formation of “Artists on the Other elements of the initia- to especially thank customers Avenue” is a prime example of tive will be addressed through who support and shop at our the positive change happening working groups and community local businesses. in our communities. input on development & revital- This has been a tremendous ization: streetscape; beautifica- Alberta Avenue Business year of note for our Association, tion; safer streets; and programs Association Ph: 471-2602 as well as for the businesses and & services. The result from these E-mail: [email protected]

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Hanging with the Cats and Dogs By Dawn Freeman was in. She decided she would word of mouth. She moved to like to work with animals again; Alberta Avenue this summer but Does any of this sound familiar? in her youth she had worked 80% of her clients are still on the You have a wonderful pet that in veterinary clinics and loved south side of Edmonton. The gives you love and companion- it. However, she didn’t want to driving is second nature to her ship but you need to go away go back to school to get the now but it is probably the thing from home and you can’t take diploma needed these days to she likes least about her business. them with you. Or maybe you work as an assistant in a clinic. Apart from that, Heather finds have a dog that needs at least That Christmas she helped out her life wonderful. three walks a day, but you only a friend by watching their cats “I love animals and I love have time for one or two of while they were away on vaca- being my own boss. It’s busy; I them. Maybe you don’t have pets tion and a business idea blos- work 7 days a week, but I do get but you need someone to check somed. free time in amongst the appoint- on your house every other day “I researched it, went to the ments. There’s little stress and no to clear the mail and water the library and read books. Then office politics, and I’m exercising plants while you are on vacation. my [current work] position was outside in the fresh air every day,” What do you do? Well, you call made redundant so I was able to says Heather. “And I have a deal Heather at Heather’s Pet Care collect E.I. while I started build- worked out with another pet sit- and House Watch. ing up my cliental – that helped ter who takes care of my clients “I take care of my clients’ a lot,” remembers Heather. And and my own animals when I pets while they are on vacation it built up quickly. She adver- want to take my own vacation. or away on business. That means tised in vet clinics in the areas My worst day doing this is still I go to their house once or twice she wanted to work and the vet better than my best day in an a day to feed, water, clean litter clinic where she used to work office.” AMANDA LEWIS boxes, walk and just hang out gave her referrals. “I also got a The benefits of having a rable to a kennel especially if you Heather’s Pet Care and with their animals. While I’m job at the then newly opened person come to your home to have more than one pet – the House Watch service is a very there I will also bring the mail Mill Creek Animal Hospital tak- care for your animals are obvi- price does not change regardless affordable way to make sure in and water the plants,” says ing care of any animals that were ous: your animal stays in familiar of the number of animals. If you your beloved animals (and Heather. “I also walk dogs for staying in the clinic over the surroundings, they keep their don’t have pets but you want house) are well cared for even people who can’t do it them- weekend. So I started getting cli- own routine, and your house is your house cared for, the cost is when you are not around. Call selves.” ents and referrals from that too.” looked after every day. And at still a mere $12 a visit. For dog Heather at 454.9296 to make Five years ago Heather need- These days Heather gets $12 per visit for cats and $13 per walking Heather charges $13 per arrangements that will give you ed a break from the job she many of her new clients from visit for dogs the cost is compa- visit. peace of mind. RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 LOCAL BUSINESS Business Briefs BALKAN STYLE SAUSAGE, DELI & ries a variety of ethnic groceries. TRAINING OPPORTUNITY BARBEQUE HOUSE Bjelic is always willing to help Action for Healthy Communi- 9403 - 118 Avenue customers unfamiliar with his ties is working with 20 central Ph: 378.0253 sausages and other meats and Edmontonians to create more to translate the writing on the community animators. The Balkan Style Sausage, Deli grocery items! What’s a Community & Barbeque House is the only ENA’S HAIR SALON Animator? A community anima- business in Edmonton with tor is someone who can help a Balkan focus. The owner, 9347 - 118 Avenue people go from “I wish my com- Vladimir Bjelic, came to Ph: 414.1467 munity did...” to “We’ve been Canada from Serbia (formerly doing this with our community Yugoslavia) 11 years ago and Ena Polanco has been in busi- for six months and next we’d decided to continue the business on the Avenue for 8 years, like to...” She or he helps people ness that has been in his family but she has been doing hair for form groups, develop plans, find for over 50 years. a lot longer than that. Her salon resources, get and keep projects caters to the whole family, and underway and make sure they The sausages are traditionally she offers manicures, pedicures get finished. made and, like the meats he and ear piercing as well as a full Community Animators prepares, contain no preserva- range of hair services. work with people to build tives; instead spices that have community. If you’d like anti-bacterial properties are At a mere $15 men’s and $16.50 to become a community added. Some of the recipes women’s basic shampoo and animator, or find out more, used are over 300 years old. On cut, the price is a steal. Ena is call Chris at Action for Healthy Saturdays Bjelic offers lamb and also offering a 10% discount off Communities, 944.4687. Space pork barbequed on a spit and products as a Christmas special. for this opportunity is limited barbeque chicken is available if so act fast! preordered. The store also car- Go, pamper yourself!

CChhrriissttmmaass && NNeeww YYeeaarr Furnace Replacement Special $$ SAVE MONEY ON YOUR NEXT GAS BILL $$

CALL THE PLUMBER S HERE ““THE PLUMBER’’S HERE”” PETER GOLDRING Member of Parliament 447711--11661155 Edmonton East

Incredible Savings The Christmas Spirit of Edmonton: Best price in the city* Community Gathering Together to Celebrate SSomeome CConditionsonditions AApplypply / llimitedimited ttimeime oonly/nly/ llicensed,icensed, iinsurednsured & bbondedonded ttradesmanradesman wwithith tthehe CCityity ooff EEdmontondmonton – 110th0th aanniversarynniversary sspecialpecial Soon Christmas and the December festive period will be upon us again. For many, it will be a time to celebrate with family and friends in the warm, safe environment of home and hearth. It is a time to reflect on the good fortune and Play or Work sense of life’s satisfaction and gratitude that comes from spending special times with family and friends. For many BINGO at Alberta Avenue Edmontonians, it is also a time to care in particular for those 9210-118 Avenue, 477-2773 who are not so fortunate, such as those who do not have family or home or who struggle financially on a day-to-day Every Wednesday, Thursday & Friday starting at 6:10 pm basis. Additional late night bingo on Fridays starting at 10:20 pm It is for these reasons that Edmontonians particularly Volunteers needed!! It’s easy work in a quiet & smoke-free reach out to help the less fortunate, through donations of environment. Come out and support your community. cash, goods or time. There are many Christmas dinners held for the community to gather to celebrate with those who are less fortunate; dinners where all items and services are donated. I will mention three. The Candora Society will be holding its Christmas Community Dinner on December 1 at the Beverly Crest Motor Inn, 3414-118 Ave., between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m.. The Fort Road Business Association dinner, held with the Belvedere Community League, will be on December 17, from 1 to 5 p.m., at the Belvedere Community League Hall, 13223-62nd Street. The Victory Church, which is noted for hosting “North America’s largest Christmas banquet”, will hold this year’s community gathering celebration on December 25, from 5 p.m. onwards, at the Shaw Conference Centre, 9797 Jasper Avenue. An estimated 6,000 were served in 2003 alone, with the numbers even larger in 2004. The needs continue to grow. I volunteer my time to serve at events and encourage you to do so as well. Helping others is an important way to appreciate the needs of Edmontonians and to treasure one’s own blessings.

495-3261 www.petergoldring.ca

RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 FAITH & TRADITIONS It’s an Old-Fashioned Christmas By John Masciuch the creation of the Christmas Town by J Coots in 1934. Old Year (1964). However, his most in Holiday Inn (1942), Have holiday spirit. He says it is the elements from a mostly rural notable song was Rudolf the Red- Yourself a Merry Little Christmas A group of people are scattered kind of music that, whether or traditional went into songs that Nosed Reindeer sung by Gene in Meet Me in St. Louis (1944), around Fenske Auction. A man not combined with the mov- would create the new old-fash- Autry who made it an instant hit and Silver Bells in the Lemon has just acquired a collection ies, created a feeling of an old- ion Christmas. The sleigh and for the year 1949. Marks wrote Drop Kid (1951) of sheet music, the kind he fashioned Christmas through its sleigh bells in the old traditional the song at the request of his Depending on which sta- uses when he plays the piano. Jingle Bells becomes an image tion you listen too, these songs The music is a collection of of the approach of Santa and are still our version of an old- Christmas songs from the 1930s his Reindeer in Johnny Mark’s fashioned Christmas, even to the 1960s, and each piece of Jingle Jingle Jingle (1964). An though they were only created sheet music has its own distinc- image of the warmth of the in the thirties. However, there tive artwork on the cover. They home is another device used to is still hope that a new song can are from an era when there was create this urban myth in Let it break some of the monotony of a Tin Pan Alley and this man Snow, Let it Snow (1945); even things played too often. In 1970 would have liked to work in a Christmas tree could become Jose Feliciano introduced a new New York’s Tin Pan Alley Then the centerpiece, like in Rockin’ Christmas song Feliz Navidad, he would have created a popular Around the Christmas Tree and it gave something new and song at the piano and rushed (1958). Composers like Johnny refreshing even if it was only in it off to a publisher. But that Marks created lively songs to the rhythm. period in music history, which words and bright rhythmic style. further the Christmas spirit. brother in-law Robert May who When asked what he spanned many years, has faded. The 1930s to the 1960s was In fact the American Society wrote the original Rudolph story would do with the collection of Instead, he talks about the time the time of radio and of mov- of Composers, Authors and in 1939. Christmas music, the man said when people wrote songs that ies. They demanded new mate- Publishers (ASCAP) has Johnny While radio seemed to dom- he would put them up for sale popularized the holiday spirit rial for the holiday season, in Marks at the top of the list inate the holiday song market, at the Red Strap Market and the and created the myth of Santa turn forcing the music indus- for the most recorded Christmas some movies were the vehicle Highlands Flea Market. Then and his reindeer, a time when try to create a new category songs in American history. Some that launched new Christmas on Wednesday, he would be back movies and radio dominated a called holiday music. The first of these songs include A Holly songs. ASCAP recognises three at Fenske’s competing with those nation. Ever year new holiday holiday song to become popular Jolly Christmas (1964), and It’s movies that helped make songs people again for what little there favourites every year went into was Santa Claus is Coming to the Most Wonderful Day of the a hit; they are White Christmas is that remains.

Christmas Tree Memories By Gordon Vickruck One particularly memorable 10’ wide tree through the door ing by at 60 miles per hour). expedition, on a sunny but very would require some sophisticated Eventually, three nights later, the What stands out in your mind wintry day, we bundled up with engineering, mostly of the type task of hanging tinsel, one string STALKING THE “WILD” about last year’s Christmas tree? layers of snow pants, scarves and involving rope and lots of people at a time was ended, speeded CHRISTMAS TREE Can you even remember last mitts and made ready for the pushing and pulling with the up considerably by throwing year’s Christmas tree? It is easier expedition. The entire family appropriate grunting and puff- clumps of knotted tinsel at the If you don’t know a farmer if you have an artificial one that trudged through the deep snow, ing. Breaking the door window higher branches. you store away in the basement. me in up to my mid-rift, up this helped, along with much more That was it. I do not remem- or someone with a wooded At least you remember where it old road, hauling axe, toboggan intense grunting and puffing. ber the rest of the decorating acreage, it will take time is and what it looks like and if because it was easy and fun. I and dedication to harvest a you are really good, what order also do not remember how we tree in the wild. the colour-coded branches go got it out of the house, except I in. The rest of us, who insisted think it was easier without the The nearest Crown land on on getting a “real Christmas tree” needles on. I suppose that is why which harvesting is permit- last year, have long forgotten we left it in the living room until that “perfect” Christmas tree mid-March when it had thor- ted is west of Hwy 22 off the that looked like every other of oughly finished it’s shedding. Yellowhead, about 1 hour the 300 Christmas trees bundled So much for the romanti- west of Edmonton. The in the parking lot. cized memories of harvesting northern boundary is the What’s up with that? the wild Christmas tree. As I Assiboine River (approxi- Christmas trees don’t come from reflect, I am overcome with an mately). parking lots. In my growing irrational impulse, even a resolve, up days we had real Christmas to do things different this year. trees that grew in forests and and younger siblings behind. The art of properly decorat- NO more adding a Christmas Before you go you will need the adventures to get them still After the tree was felled it ing a Christmas tree is something tree to our grocery shopping list a permit from the Sustain- remain memories. Christmas remained to haul it back to the often not remembered today as as if it were no more significant able Resource Development gifts have long since broken and house. This was no small feat, we have opted for garland, aero- than a bag of Doritos. Nor more Information Center, located turkey leftovers have long been as the tree selected this year sol snow or even pre-tinseled extensive comparative shopping at 9920-108 Street. Edmon- digested, but the memories of was mammoth, too big for the artificial trees. For novitiates, I as if saving $5 can enhance the ton, phone 422.2079. Christmas trees stay forever. toboggan, and as it turned out, will explain that the proper pro- real value of a Christmas tree. Getting the right tree was a quite too big for our house. The cess for decorating a tree begins This year we are going to do serious matter, never left to the tree stood 12’ tall and was almost by carefully unraveling last year’s it properly. We will go off in They will give you precise last minute. In fact, my father, that broad across at the base; our knotted balls of tinsel from the pursuit of a real wild, uncul- directions. The permit is who spent hours in the bush living room had the standard box of stored decorations. Each tivated Christmas tree and we $5.35 for which you can hunting, would be keeping a 8-foot ceiling. We lobbed a few piece had to be painstakingly will drive for hours and spends “bag” three trees. keen eye out months before the feet off the top and bottom, separated and then hung all $100’s on gas and vehicle repair snow even fell. Or the entire sculpting a tree that had virtually around the tree (even the side but in the end we will have a Happy hunting ! family would take a ride in the no taper. that was pressed up against the real Christmas tree and a real country, scouring the backwoods The next job was to get it window and could only be seen Christmas because we have cre- looking for the right tree. in the door. Squeezing an 8 to from the highway by cars driv- ated memories. RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 FAITH & TRADITIONS Approaching the Winter Solstice By Gordon Vickruck for putting aside the doing and to the soil beneath, rekindling the business to explore our inner the cycle of regeneration. Death “To everything there is a season. being. is just a season. It too will give A time to be born and a time to The contrasts and contradic- way to new life, as despair gives die.” (Ecclesiastes). tions of winter are intensified birth to hope. during the Winter Solstice. It Some native traditions Tiny snow toques, tucked celebrates the contrasting themes regard the heart of winter as snugly on freeze-dried mountain of darkness and light of despair “earth renewal time.’ The posi- ash berries; here is the beau- and hope, through which not tion on the Medicine Wheel is ty and the harshness of winter. only the external world must NNW. North winds are associ- White and red. Soft and cold. pass but also each of us on an ated with renewal and purity. Delicate and severe. inner spiritual level. This is a time of unseen internal- December 21st marks the But the day that marks the ized power. time of year in the Northern deepest descent of the sun also In the deep darkness of win- Hemisphere when the sun is marks the beginning of its ascent. ter we celebrate the promise of at its lowest ebb making it the The death throes of winter loos- new beginnings. This is the time shortest day and the longest en its hold and gives way to the to journey deep within. It is here night of the year. promise of spring. The spindly that we find a place of stillness Winter is the season of dying, twigs of the mountain ash for a and healing and the source of of letting go and leaving behind. time tenaciously cling to their strength and self-love that will The leaves fall, the rivers freeze. treasure of blood red berries, but carry us out into the world, soon It is a time for turning inward, soon they will let the seeds fall to be reborn.

Celebrating 25 Years 20% OFF Each Tax Return Prepared by Feb. 28 BIG RED 2 for 1 INCOME TAX & ACCOUNTING Pay for 1 return & get 2nd return of equal or lesser value FREE ATTENTION EASTWOOD 11107 - 95 Street New Clients Only (with coupon) RESIDENTS 471-6251 25% OFF Your community league is Enter To Win Each Business Return having their Annual General 1 of 25 Gift Certificates with a Total Value of $1,750. (with an invoice over $100.00) Meeting and electing a board Winners determined by random draw & must answer a skill testing question. for the upcoming year. No cash value. Deadline for entries is Dec. 4, 2005. Draw date Dec. 5, 2005. Get out, support your league Complete details at the office of Big Red Income Tax & Accounting. $100 OFF Each Corporate Return and have a voice. Dave Patterson, Manager Prepared by Dec. 31 December 7, 7pm at With coupon (bring booklet) 11803-86 Street Good Accounts Don’t Cost You Money! They Save You Money!

Excerpts from paragraphs by the Norwood Timber Wolves Grade 4 Class For Christmas I go to High Prairie When me and my sister wake to see my grandparents. When I wake up we check what we got in our up there are thousands of presents in ristmas t stockings. Then we grab our e Ch radit the living room. We all sit down orit ion blankets and pillows and sleep fav is and I get to hand out the presents y ha M v on the couch. When our parents in to all my relatives. We have turkey g oing to th f wake up we have breakfast. g e u and fresh bannock and e p n ik a l r a k e n Zack y I e . Christmas oranges. w a v d id e C

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RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 FAITH & TRADITIONS The Miracle of Hanukkah By Tamara Raynor-Cote dow to commemorate the mira- A: Ya! The more historical reason like chocolate coins or you lose cle of Hanukkah. Presents aren’t is the miracle of the Maccabees‚ a prize. Also my grandparents This is the time of year to unite a huge part of it but we still get (an ancient Jewish Tribe) defeat- give us Gelt (Hanukkah money in a brotherhood of man and them, not necessarily one for ing a band of invading foreign- or chocolate coins) so that’s enjoy time with the ones we each day though. ers with a smaller army. always fun. We eat Latkes (pota- love. For many, Christmas is a to pancakes) and Suf Ganiot coming together of family and What is the Hanukkah miracle? So what do you do at Hanukkah? (jelly donuts) too. And of course loved ones to do just that, for Is it like Christmas where we light the Chanukiah and those of the Jewish faith it’s A: Well there are sort of two you hang stockings and eat place it in our window, sort of Hanukkah. I sat down with a miracles for Hanukkah. The Christmas oranges? like how you put a Christmas friend of mine, Aron Rosenberg, one that most people are famil- tree in yours. to find out what Hanukkah was iar with is the oil lasting for A: Well at Hanukkah we have and what it meant to him. eight days instead of one in the some traditional things that all So Aron what does Hanukkah temple menorah. That’s why we people do and then some that mean to you? So Aron how would you explain light candles now, to remem- each family does. For instance, Hanukkah to someone who isn’t ber the original miracle. Some children play with the Dreidl, A: For me Hanukkah is a very familiar with it? people don’t really believe this it’s a spinning top with let- special time to be with my actually happened, they look at ters on each side that either friends and family and remem- A: Hanukkah is a holiday built it as more of a story for kids. says, “A miracle happened there” ber how wonderful life can be. I on tradition and remembrance. or in Israel, “A miracle hap- think it’s amazing that a people It lasts eight days and for each So I guess you could compare pened here”. It’s a game where, who have been oppressed for so day we light a candle in the it to Santa Claus for Christmas depending on what letter it long can surpass all expectations Chanukiah to place in our win- right? lands on, you either get a prize and remain strong.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES

Avenue Vineyard Church 2nd floor, 11726-95 Street Christmas Eve Dec 24 at 6pm

Bethel Gospel Chapel 11461-95 Street 477.3341 Community Christmas Celebration Sun, Dec 11 at 7pm. The Christmas story in music and drama. Food and fellowship to follow. Christmas Day, Dec 25 at 10:30am

Edmonton Crossroads- Salvation Army 11661-95 Street 474.4324 The Haven: Food & fellowship every Friday at 7pm. Christmas Eve Dec 24 6:30pm Christmas Day Dec 25 3pm

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian 8715-118 Avenue 477.8677 Christmas Eve Dec 24 at 7pm Christmas Day Dec 25 at 11am

St. Faith’s Anglican CHRISTIAN LIFE CENTER 11725-93 Street 477.5931 Service followed by lunch every Thursday at 12pm We invite you to join in Lessons, Carols & Pageant Sun, Dec 11 at 11am Women’s Supper & Fellowship our Christmas celebrations Thu, Dec 8 at 6pm Community Supper Fri, Dec 16 from 5-6:30pm Christmas Eve Dec 24 at 7:30 & 11pm Christmas Day Dec 25 at 11am Kid’s Christmas Christmas Eve St. Alphonsus Catholic Program Candle Light 11828-85 Street 474.5434 Service Christmas Eve Dec 24 - Sunday, December 18 8pm & Midnight 7 pm Christmas Day Dec 25 - 10am 10:30 am New Year’s Eve Dec 31 - 5pm New Year’s Day Jan 1 - 10am (free candy bags for children ages 2-12) Saturday, December 24

St. Patrick Catholic 11811-96 Street 477.8876 10123 Princess Elizabeth Avenue Edmonton, AB T5G 0X9 Ph: 471-2250 Christmas Eve Dec 24 at 8pm Christmas Day Dec 25 at 10am

10 RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 FAITH & TRADITIONS Reaching Out & Growing in God’s Love – the Promise of St Faith’s By Linda Maude for meals increased. Private donations, a CFEP Grant Women’s Guild, after school Group with a light-hearted fash- “On my first Sunday there and the people of St Faith’s children’s programs and coffee ion show! “Reaching out and growing in were only fifteen people in the fundraising efforts raised over house evenings. Some programs The speaker for the evening God’s love” is the new mis- congregation. Now we see 75 $827,000 so far, leaving a bal- are now on hold until after the was the Rev. Wendy Ainsworth sion statement of St Faith’s to 80!” enthuses Rev. Crerar. ance of $150,000 still needed to PrayerWorks Hall is completed. who has since become the Anglican Church in Norwood. And right now, The won- Rector of St Faith’s as Maureen PrayerWorks Hall is just one of St Faith’s pro- derful thing has moved on to another par- the exciting results of this being vides 10,000 about the ish in Edmonton. She spoke on put into practice. meals a year people of St Outreach; focusing on attitudes Five years ago when Rev and the need Faith’s is their such as abundance versus scar- Maureen Crerar first came to the is ever growing. active partici- city, generosity, gratitude and parish the number of parishio- Unfortunately pation in the faith. Her final quote seemed ners was so small there were fears the old parish running of the very fitting for the company. it would be closed down perma- hall kitchen parish and its “God does not want us to do nently. Seeing a community with was inadequate ministry. In extraordinary things. He wants very specific needs she set out to and the build- order to get us to do ordinary things extraor- meet them believing that “proc- ing was old and a feel for the dinarily.” lamation of the gospel comes in in poor repair. people who This vibrant, happy com- the action of the gospel”. If outreach to make up the munity is right here in the heart “Many people in this area are the community was to continue complete the project. community I went to a Women’s of Norwood. It serves as a sym- struggling with the basic necessi- and grow a new hall was needed. St Faith’s has many volun- Guild evening. The first thing bol of hope and love in a world ties of life such as food,” says Rev. Recognizing the wonderful teers on whom they rely to help that struck me was the enormous that sometimes seems uncaring. Crerar. “Many have no money work being done by the people them provide their various pro- variety of people there from all For more information about the and no car.” She decided to and friends of St Faith’s, the grams. This active parish offers walks of life. Everyone was days and times meals are offered, provide a safe place for people Diocese of Edmonton with Thursday lunches, Saturday welcome and seemed to feel at or regarding service times and to come for fellowship and food. the support of Bishop Victoria breakfast, monthly Friday com- home. A lovely meal was served parish events, please phone Slowly the number of people Matthews has helped fund the munity suppers, and Wednesday and we were entertained by the 477.5931. The church is located attending services and coming building of PrayerWorks Hall. afternoon hot meals, as well as very exuberant and happy Youth at 11725-93rd Street.

Seasons Greetings from NOLAN DRUGS The Management and Staff at Nolan Drugs would like to sincerely wish you and your family Seasons Greetings and a happy and safe Holiday Season. We hope that the upcoming year will bring you the best of health, happiness and prosperity.

Nolan Drugs has been serving the community for over 50 years. We sincerely thank you for your continued patronage and look forward to serving you for many more years to come. The New Year promises to bring many exciting enhancements at Nolan Drugs. In order to adapt to the changing needs of our clientele, we will be renovating and expanding our pharmacy to better serve your healthcare requirements. We believe that what we do will be truly innovative and enable us to continue to serve as a model community pharmacy.

Our services include: *Prompt and Courteous service *Complete Prescription services *Medication monitoring and follow-up *Home visits and Consultations *FREE prescription pickup and delivery *Compliance packaging (dosette/bubble) *Full Service Post Office *FREE blood pressure monitoring *Pre-filled Insulin syringes *Herbal products *Medical / incontinence supplies for homecare *Safe Medication Disposal

NOLAN DRUGS HOURS 8901-118 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5B OT5 MON-FRI 9AM TO 7PM FAX (780) 479-4029 SAT 9AM TO 5PM TEL: (780) 477-2748

RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 11 RESIDENT PROFILE The Artful Pastor By Michael Lonergan understanding grew a desire issues. He also likes to take what He says, “They are a support he served on the board of CAP to see a Vineyard church in he calls “prayer walks” down 118 in everything from church mat- (Community Action Project), Twenty years ago, Mark and the Alberta Avenue area. The Avenue. He feels it gives him a ters to helping us survive rough and this year the church became Ruth Taverner came to Canada T a v e r n e r s ’ times.” Mark an institutional member of CAP. from Britain for Mark to study believe church believes fam- When asked what kind Fine Arts at the University of should be con- ily is having a of church Avenue Vineyard is, Alberta. Today, Mark and his nected to the group of peo- Mark responded, “It is a casual, wife pastor a local church. Huh? c o m m u n i t y ple around you informal, young church based How did two British artists end in which it is to help you get on relationships rather than rules. up pastoring a church? You’ll get located, so through “what You can come however you are, the brief explanation below but they ‘walked life throws however you like. And you can if you want the full story, you’ll their talk’ and at you”. For ask any question you may have.” have to contact Mark and go for moved to that reason Mark believes Avenue Vineyard a coffee. Eastwood 14 he thinks of is unique in that the mixture of When the Taverners moved years ago. In church as an people is spread across all social, to Canada, they never expected 1998, Avenue extension of economic and educational back- it to be a long term move. “We Vineyard Com- the family. At grounds. The church has a con- just wanted to explore what it munity Church C h r i s t m a s , cern for the poor and is learning was like to live in another coun- was started and the Taverner how they can make a difference, try,” says Mark. After receiving Mark quit his household tra- both locally and internationally. his Bachelor of Fine Arts, Mark parts job to ditionally eats While Mark has always had began attending church with his take on a pas- a big lunch fol- a special feeling for this area, he’s wife who had started going to toral role. lowed by the happy to see plans for revital- church two years earlier. Ruth Pastoring family playing ization. “It’s great to see more was pregnant with their first does not leave games or talk- residents and politicians taking child, and needing to support much time for ing. an active interest in the commu- his family, Mark took a job run- Mark’s other Mark is nity and it’s wonderful to be able ning a parts department at a local passion – his heavily involv- to connect with people through aircraft company. He worked art work. “I ed in the com- events like this Art Show.” this job for 10 years while being love creating munity. He Drop in at the Alberta involved in lay ministry at a art and so I eagerly signed up sense of what is going on in the meets together with pastors of Avenue Business Association on Vineyard Church leading small for the Community Art Show & neighbourhood. other area churches and he has December 10th or 11th, and groups and ministry teams. Sale – I’m just hoping I get my Since Mark is separated from been a part of Stronger Eastwood check out Pastor Mark’s paint- As Mark and Ruth’s relation- pieces finished in time!” Besides his family of origin, he along with Families. Before the Cromdale ings. Or contact him if you’d like ship with God matured, they his artwork, Mark loves to col- his wife and four children have a Hotel was closed down, Mark to know more about his journey became aware of God’s love and lect music (especially Jamaican) very close relationship with their regularly visited residents and from art to pastoring (phone the concern for the poor. With this and learn about social justice extended family here in Canada. gave out sandwiches. Last year, church office at 474.1178).

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12 RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 OUT OF THIS WORLD Library Contest Winners Winners of the “Out of this be pleased. Follow me.” My eyes towards me; I reached my hand human at his hindpaws. This the dogs on your side. Once in world” summer writing contest widened as the dog…talked. out, seeing that this should be was Top Dog I assumed, as he a while, there is a special human at the Sprucewood Library: “Sir? Where am I?” I said a proper greeting. The head nodded at the Pit Bulls and who doesn’t treat us like inferior Anita Hoy, age 8 panting to catch up with him. of the group gave a nod and waved them off, along with his beings. That human teaches us Trisha Chow, age 11 “You are in the palace of Top they slipped a nylon collar on leashed human. about the coming and goings Stephanie Le, age 13 Dog. It is a great honor for a me, the tag saying Fernie. We After they all left, he leaned of Earth, so we can improve on Here is the third of the winning humaness like you.” He led me walked along elaborate halls full forwards in his throne and said, many things, such as the tele- stories. to a window, told me to stay of paintings of landscapes and “Fernie, perhaps I should answer porting device that brought you and walked your questions. here. That human is you. Will DOG SPELLED off, muttering, Long ago, you stay?” BACKWARDS IS GOD “I hope she’s when civiliza- I opened my mouth to say housebroken, tion had just something, but he stopped me. I lay in bed, pondering about can never trust begun, humans “Here, you can have any- everyday junk picked up by your these humans.” feared us and thing you want. On Earth, you ears. Today’s junk was dog spelt P e e r i n g bowed to us, have nothing and you will forget backwards was god. It poked out the win- unlike in your about this encounter. As for your and prodded at my imagination, dow I saw dogs world. When friends and family, we’ll supply swirling it around, a whirlpool standing on the asteroid them with a mind wipe and lots of robed dogs playing harps and their hind legs came, it split of money. A fair trade?” Top cats holding pitchforks, until I playing golf. Earth in half, Dog smiled, leaning back with drifted off to sleep. Someone Growing bored, one half mostly a sigh. pulling on my hair woke me up. my eyes wan- dogs and one Yes, this was true, being an “Mom…give me ten min- dered around half mostly orphan I had no place to go. utes…” I groaned. the window to where the words dogs, with the occasional bone. humans. Of course, the Top Dog “I accept your offer,” I said. “Mom? We have no one “Telescope mode-off” was printed They pushed opened two wood- was on the side of dogs, so they “Thank you.” Top Dog called Mom here,” a gruff voice on a button. Without hesitation, en doors, revealing an extraordi- flourished under his care. The grinned again as I gave a weak said. Shooting up in alarm I saw I pushed the button, revealing an nary room: rich carpeting, gold- other side needed a ruler but the smile back. a standing German Shepherd, endless stretch of stars, it kept on en throne with intricate designs, humans took over. The humans In Canitogg, technology was but no source of the voice. zooming closer until I saw some- platefuls of cheese and peanut were unsatisfied with the name even more advanced than Earth, What was happening? But I still thing that caught my eye, a blue butter crackers complete with a Top Dog so they flipped it around though pollution was never reached my hand out for the dog orb with swirls of white, green, fountain spurting wine. and turned it into God Pot, later heard of. It was paradise, even if to sniff. and brown. A figure I knew all “My lord.” The Pit Bulls shortened to God. You called the dogs loved to roll around in “You were the first to prop- too well, it was Earth and proof rolled over on their back for your side Earth, but our side was a certain smelly substance. erly introduce yourself, by reach- I was on a different planet. As showing their respect. I followed called Canitogg. Centuries later, ing your hand out, out of all I pressed the off button, I saw suit and I looked up to see an the few remaining humans on By Stephanie Le these humans. M’lordship will a group of Pit Bulls walking Irish Setter who had a leashed our side dumbed down, so did (Age 13)

Sprucewood Branch Library By Howard Saunders Mystery authors love to have ing and gift giving. ”300 ways Manager Sprucewood Branch crime take place at Christmas. to make the best Christmas Edmonton Pubic Library Titles include “A Christmas ever” is by Mimi Tribble and Visitor” by Anne Perry and “Aunt Company’s Coming has just Christmas is the time of year Dimity’s Christmas” by Nancy published “Christmas Gifts when we turn to our traditions Atherton. Charlaine Harris’s from the Kitchen” with loads of to remind us of who and what “Shakespeare’s Christmas” is good ideas. we are. Those traditions can be about cleaning lady Lily Bard Want to get away from the so varied – each person finds and a kidnapping in the town hype and read something seri- joy in his or her own way. It of Shakespeare, Arkansas. For ous? How about “Birds Without could be the coldness of winter, a historical Christmas mystery, Wings” by Louis de Bernieres; he the warmth of the family being try “The Queene’s Christmas” also wrote “Corelli’s Mandolin”. together, stockings hung by the by Karen Harper. Yes, Elizabeth The 2005 book is about a tiny, fire or the music of the season. I is the detective! “Winter of backward community in Turkey For many of us it is the stories. Discontent” by Jeanne C. Dams in the late 19th and early 20th In my home we love to listen to will also be enjoyed. centuries, with the rise of Kemal “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” Philip Gulley’s “Christmas Attaturk balancing the involve- by Dylan Thomas – we never Scrapbook” is set, like his other ment of the villagers in battles tire of the familiar tale. books in Harmony, and features they do not understand, leading Others read “How the Pastor Sam, who is trying to to World War I. A powerful Grinch stole Christmas” every make amends for Christmas gift story. year, or, like a friend of ours, failures in the past. For tradi- Christmas music, from watch “It’s A Wonderful Life”. tional stories, plus a few new Bach to rock is available at the Just remember that the story ones for the season, you have to library. Just about everyone puts known as “‘twas the night before try “Favourite Christmas stories out a Christmas album, so it Christmas” is actually “A visit from Fireside Al”. Here you find shouldn’t be difficult to find from St. Nicholas” by Clement ”The Gift of the Magi”, as well the one you need for your party Moore. as that delightful tale “The True background music. If you make If you’re looking for good Meaning of Crumfest”. your own music, try the library stories to read over the holidays, If you’re entertaining this for music scores. We have them try “Skipping Christmas” by year, remember that the library by the dozen. John Grisham – a delightfully has many recipes for cookies Best wishes for Christmas funny story of a couple who and eggnog as well as all kinds from us all at the Sprucewood try to give the season a miss. of ideas for party fare, decorat- Branch Library. RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 13 COMMUNITY NEWS More Charges Laid Help Yourself & Your Neighbourhood in Westwood-area Sex by Helping “Them”

Assaults By Karen Mykietka or what it would take for Christmas morning. PAAFE them to leave it behind. How and other organizations do Following a media release on 30-year-old Brent Edward You received this paper in your does a drug-addicted, deeply their best to get women con- October 18, several tips were MacDonald of Edmonton now mailbox or picked it up at wounded woman involved in nect with the Christmas Bureau called into police about a series faces a total of 15 charges; a local store while shopping. prostitution get out when she but some women always fall of sexual assaults and indecent . 2 counts of sexual assault Maybe you’re sitting at your has no confidence, self-esteem through the cracks. PAAFE acts in the Westwood commu- . 1 count of assault kitchen table having a cup of or resources? They are on a tries to have items on hand for nity. An individual was arrested . 6 counts of performing an coffee while flipping through spiral of hopelessness and all these women or someone or and charged October 20, 2005. indecent act the paper. Where ever you are, they can think about is numb- some group to connect them Since then investigators were . 6 counts of criminal you are most likely in a warm ing the pain with more of the with who will provide food able to connect that person harassment place. You have probably start- same. and toys. You can donate food, to several other incidents in ed Christmas shopping and PAAFE works hard to help toys or money to PAAFE or the area. Investigations were The investigation contin- making holiday plans. You may women stuck in this hopeless offer to prepare a basket for a conducted through the Major ues. Anyone with further infor- not know it but you are truly place but they are limited by woman in need. Crimes Division and resulted mation about these incidents is blessed. There are people out the lack of treatment spaces and *PAAFE will be hosting a in additional charges being laid asked to contact the Edmonton there who are not only home- first-step (supportive) housing “beat the January blues” din- against that person. Police Service at 423.4567. less, hungry and cold but who for women who want to escape ner for the women they work

are enduring horrors day after the streets. This holiday season with. Donations are always day. The PAAFE article is not and New Year when you see a welcomed and needed. Affordable Housing in easy or pleasant for us to read, woman shivering on the street *Advocate for something but it is the reality some people corner in freezing weather to that would really make a differ- Parkdale – too many people – live. turn a trick, instead of sneering ence in our prostitution prob- As residents in these neigh- at the woman, think of what lem – addictions treatment and Seven families will be is scheduled for completion in bourhoods, we complain about you can do to make a differ- supportive housing – instead moving into a new home this March 2006. It is a $1.4 million the prostitution, drugs and ence in her life. of just trying to move it out of December just in time for the 15-unit affordable housing proj- crime but often do not let our- *Some women are working your neighbourhood (and into holiday season. The EICHS ect for pregnant and parenting selves think about the people the street because they don’t someone else’s). (Edmonton Inner City Housing youth being built by Mikhael trapped in these activities and want their children looking at Society) Project in Parkdale at Management Corporation. what they are going through an empty fridge or bare tree on Contact PAAFE at 471.6137 112 Avenue and 87 Street had This project received $794, 600 its official opening ceremony in funding from EHTF. on November 25, 2005. This The Edmonton Housing PAAFE housing will provide a support- Trust Fund, which works in ive, safe and secure environ- partnership with the three lev- ment for low-income families. els of government, the com- “Help Us Help Ourselves” The $990,000 project was made munity and the Edmonton Written for my Soul Sisters old school. ‘Cause I know she high enough till my next blast possible by a $669,000 grant Joint Planning Committee By a Soul Sis would offer empathy. GUESS makes things seem HUNKY from the Edmonton Housing on Housing, serves as a fund- WHAT? I can see one of my DORY. We tell each other we Trust Fund (EHTF) as well as ing vehicle for affordable and The following article is writ- sisters approaching me up the love each other, stay safe and the support of EICHS part- support services in Edmonton. ten with honesty, faith, hope avenue. As we get closer to one go our separate ways. ners, The Stollery Foundation, On November 22, National and love. May the spirit within another, I can see she’s walking As I walked down the ave- the Stratcona Rotary Club, The Housing Day, they announced your heart be moved. with struggle and she has been nue to my usual corner, I pray Allen Family Fund and Vinterra funding totaling over $2.8 mil- I had a very bad night last crying. I forget my shit and and hope we see each other Properties. lion for projects aimed at help- night. Pretty much like most again. I reflect back on the Another housing project a ing Edmonton’s homeless or nights with a few exceptions. tears we shed and the purpose block away at 8616-112 Avenue at-risk population. The truth is I’m grateful to still of them. I know they are for be mentally all here. I’m wired the SISTERS who didn’t make for sound and desperately need it back, for our children who Liquor Store Revisited to forget the fact that hours long for us to come home, our earlier I was raped. Later on families who worry, for the In 2000 the communities of the Appeal Board for the very I was robbed and then got helpless friends who love us Parkdale and Cromdale rallied same shopping centre and was busted for talking to a wanna- but can only still be our friends, to fight the proposed inclusion approved. Interestingly, it is be-john (undercover police and for knowing that there’s of a liquor store in the new the community’s former city officer). What put the cap on too much red tape in politics. development at 112 Ave and 82 councilor, Robert Noce, who is the needle was when I had my I also cry because so many are St, a shopping centre anchored the lawyer for the liquor store. miscarriage in a desolate and homeless, hungry and see no by a Save-On-Foods. At first According to Scott McKeen’s dirty back alley. All alone, sad light in the future. I’m home- the liquor store component was article (The Edmonton Journal and confused. There is a part less and I never know where rejected by the city Planning Friday November 18th, 2005), of me that makes me believe I I’m going to sleep. I’m very Department, but Jim Pattison none of the three community deserved it all. I chose to say insecure and unstable. Developments, the propo- leagues from the surrounding yes to a hoot (of cocoaine), I Given to Kate Quinn’s hus- nent, appealed to the city’s area knew about the proposal, chose to pull a trick. I trusted embrace her. band on July 1, 2005, while he Subdivision and Development even though the city is vigilant those people. I need to run Between sobs she tells me was stopped at a traffic light Appeal Board. Forty Residents at mailing out notices on such from the excruciating sadness, she’s had a bad date and had on 95 Street and 111th Avenue, showed up at the Appeal Board matters. emptiness, fear and shame I to walk from the hospital. I to pass on to Kate to send to meeting to fight the propos- P a r k d a l e / C r o m d a l e feel within me right now. So I silently let my own tears fall as elected representatives. Written al and convinced the Appeal Community League voted, wander off down the street in I wish I could magically remove by a woman who asked that we Board they were right: the November 24th, to take the hope of pulling a trick to help our sorrow. When her sobs remember the many nameless liquor store was killed. matter forward to the Court of numb and escape the memories. subside, we pull apart and walk women still alive on the street, However, in October of Queen’s Bench and the Court Maybe I’ll run into a soul sis- so we can go get high. Which while working to solve the mur- this year a proposal for a of Appeal and fight the decision ter (another working woman). seems like the only light in our ders of the named women who liquor store was put before of the Appeal Board. Hopefully someone from the shabby existence. Knowing I’m have been killed.

14 RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 SPORTS & FITNESS Community Programs

ADULT FITNESS CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS REGISTRATION

No previous sporting or fitness skill base. There is no hard PRE-SCHOOL GYMNASTICS BALLET To register for any community experience required. contact between participants. Toddler Tumbler* 8 Sundays, Jan 29-Mar 19 league sports program or fitness This is going to be high energy, (18 months - 3 years) At Parkdale Hall class: Call Brad MacCallum at I am very excited to announce result-oriented and fun course. Exploring movement patterns Instructor: Danica Smith 479.2313 (office) or 982.3052 another new partnership and kinesthetic senses using (cell). between our neighborhoods This unique program has been gymnastic stunts, gymnastics Beginner 3-4 and a fantastic local company, designed specifically to meet apparatus (mats, ladders, bal- Students will begin exploring OR bring cheque (made out Soldiers of Fitness (SOF). SOF the needs of our community. ance beams, mini-trampoline, movement patterns. Focus will to Alberta Avenue Community is committed to providing a Each session will consist of a box horse), games, parent par- be on balance, levels, co-ordina- League) or cash to one of the unique 5 week self defense mild cardiovascular workout to ticipation play, percussion and tion, direction, and, of course, following locations, whichever “camp” and light fitness experi- kick the sessions off. Also, there imagination. creativity! Music appreciation is is most convenient. A receipt ence for anyone in our com- will be team-building exercises *Parent Participation required included, as it is an integral part will be provided upon payment munity. SOF does not believe and instruction on strengthen- of any dance style. of fees. in quick fix solutions to life- ing and toning the abs, hips 6 Thursdays Jan 26-March 2 long fitness goals. Programs are and lower back. For more 9:30-10:15 at Parkdale Hall Time: 1:00-1:30 Alberta Avenue designed to cater to a variety information contact: Soldiers Cost $30.00 members; Cost: $10.00 9210-118 Avenue of fitness levels and are run in of Fitness at (780) 450-5713 $40.00 non-members 11am-7pm on Mon, Wed, Fri such a manner as to promote or visit their website at www. Instructor: Shauna Dowson Beginner 5-6 initiative, motivation, integrity, SoldiersofFitness.com Students will begin to incor- Eastwood self-esteem, confidence and Pre-School Gym* (3-5 years) porate some of the basic ballet 11803-86 Street teamwork. All SOF instructors 5 Saturdays, Jan 28 – Feb 25 Introduction to tumbling postures and movements into 10am-2pm on Wed are or have been professional 1:00–2:30pm at Parkdale Hall movements on mats, progres- a class still based on creativity. soldiers and are trained and Cost: $25.00 sion to balances on beam, This gives our young dancers Parkdale-Cromdale knowledgeable in a variety of Instructors: Cpl. Colin Reid jump sequences on box horse a dance vocabulary that will 11335-85 Street fitness related areas. and Sgt. Karth Sahadevan & fabulous activity related enhance their experience and 11am-2pm on Mon, Wed, Fri games interspersed throughout skill as a developing mover! Soldiers of Fitness was founded BEGINNER AND INTERMEDIATE 45 minutes. Your registration must be con- by Canadian soldiers, Cpl. PILATES *No aerial stunts. Time: 1:30-2:15 firmed by payment of fees (if Colin Reid and Sgt. Karth Develop core strength, Cost: $15.00 applicable) 3 days prior to the Sahadevan, while on an overseas mobility, improved postural 6 Thursdays, Jan 26-March 2 start of the class. If you have a tour of duty in the Balkans. alignment and coordination. 10:15-11:00 at Parkdale Hall Beginner 7-10 community league membership Throughout the tour of duty Core strength is developed by Cost $30.00 members; Students will expand their (from any league), you receive a the two spent time ponder- using the deeper abdominal $40.00 non-members movement vocabulary in a chal- discount! ing which direction their lives muscles and connecting these Instructor: Shauna Dowson lenging and rewarding program. should take upon completion of movements with the breath. Focus is placed on control and PUBLIC SKATING their time in Bosnia, as many It’ll give you a body that is SOCCER fluidity of movement, as well as soldiers do. A large amount of stronger, leaner, more flexible Soccer Skills Camps a strong sense of musicality and their time was also spent keep- and better balanced. Coach Samadi is back! performance. As always, creativ- Free indoor public skating: ing in shape. Since the military He brings a great blend of ity is encouraged! Russ Barnes Arena had given these two soldiers so 8 Thursdays, Jan 26 – Mar 23 superior soccer skill and coach- Saturdays, 5-6pm at much throughout their mili- 6-7 pm at Alberta Avenue Hall ing experience in a fun and Time: 2:15-3:15 6725-121 Avenue. Free use of tary careers, they decided that Cost: $30.00 members; enjoyable environment. This Cost: $20.00 ice skates until Dec 17. they should put that time and $40.00 non-members camp focuses on techniques Westwood Arena training to good use, and give Instructor: Mirella Zadkovich such as dribbling, receiving and SKATING Sundays, 3:15-4:15pm at something back to the com- controlling the ball, short and Beginner Skate (ages 3-5) 12040-97 Street. Call 496.4999 munity by creating a fitness INTRO TO HATHA YOGA long passing, shooting, cross- Learn to fall/get-up, static bal- for up-to-date schedules. company that would not only Hatha Yoga is an exercise sys- ing, and heading. Kids will ances, dynamic balances, glide, benefit civilians but also provide tem designed to create a unified also have a chance to play some push, turn, stop. Introduce co- Outdoor community rinks: employment for local soldiers. and balanced state of grace. You games and tryout their new ordination for skating. Will be open as weather per- will learn the fundamentals of skills and techniques, as well mits SOLDIERS OF FITNESS CAMP AT yoga postures and use relaxation as, meet some other players in 6 Saturdays, Jan. 14-Feb 18 Alberta Avenue: Call 477.2773 PARKDALE-CROMDALE techniques, breath and body their neighborhoods. A great 10:00-10:30 am at Eastwood to see if rink will be opening The focus of the camp will be awareness to improve body way opportunity to improve Rink this year. basic self defense. Youth over alignment, as well as, physical your indoor soccer skills and Cost: $30.00 members; Delton: Weeknights 5-9pm; 16 years of age are encour- and mental wellbeing. prepare for the upcoming $40.00 non-members Weekends 12-6pm. Call aged to participate. Cpl Colin outdoor soccer season! No Instructor: Shauna Dowson 477.5056 for more info. Reid and Sgt Karth Sahadevan, 6 Wednesdays, Jan 25-Mar 1 previous soccer experience is Eastwood: Call 479.2313 for founders of SOF, will teach 9:30-10:30am at Alberta necessary. Learn to Skate details. self-defense techniques they Avenue Hall Learn to fall/get-up, balance Spruce Avenue: For ice times acquired in the Canadian Cost: $20.00 members; Camp 1 (static & dynamic), glide, for- call the community hotline at Armed Forces. Each week will $25.00 non-members Sunday, February 12, 1-3pm ward skate, snow-plow stop, 471.1932. build on the previous week’s Instructor: Melanie Ustina Location: TBA stepping cross-overs & back- Parkdale: Mon-Fri Public Cost: FREE – PLEASE CALL ward glide 5-7:30; Shinny 7:30-9pm. TO REGISTER Sat Public 1-6:30pm; Shinny Community Swim 6 Saturdays, Jan. 14-Feb 18 6:30-9pm. Sun Public noon-  Camp 2 10:30-11:15 am at Eastwood 6pm. Call 474.7552. FREE swim for Alberta Avenue and Parkdale Sunday, March 12, 1-3pm Rink NEW – free skating rink in community league members (you must show your membership Location: TBA Cost: $35.00 members; Sheriff Robertson Park card). Use the 25m saltwater pool, steam room or hot tub. Cost: FREE – PLEASE CALL $45.00 non-members 82 Street and 111 Avenue Sundays, 12-2 pm at Eastglenn Pool, 11410-68 Street TO REGISTER Instructor: Shauna Dowson Contact Parkdale for details.

RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006 15 COMMUNITY NOTICES

HOLIDAY FUN & EVENTS COMMUNITY LEAGUE CLASSIFIEDS CONTACT INFORMATION: Visit Candy Cane Lane, Dec 11 to Jan 1, 6-10pm. Enjoy this tra- HELP WANTED: is trying to track down info on Alberta Avenue dition of festive lights along 148 Street between 100 Ave and 92 Ave. The Spruce Avenue Community his grandfather’s amateur boxing 9210-118 Avenue The Singing Christmas Tree at the Central Pentecostal Tabernacle, League is looking to hire some- career. Frank Marsden just turned ph: 477.2773 Dec 9 to 19. For more info call 452.5569 ext 223. one to supervise public skating at 97 years old. He boxed in North New Years Eve Downtown, Saturday, Dec 31. The evening is an Delton our out door rink. Evenings until Edmonton between 1929-1939 alcohol-free event and features entertainment, strolling entertainers, 9:00 and on weekends. Interested starting out of the Eastwood 12325-88 Street public skating, a street dance, family activities and, of course, fireworks. individuals must be 18 years of Community League. He won ph: 477.3326 For more information, please call 423.2822 or visit eventsedmonton.ca. age and enjoy working with the in the featherweight and heavy Kid Stuff: Great Toys from Our Childhood: A unique exhibit Eastwood public. Please call Henry or classes and won Gold Gloves until January 9, 2006 at The Royal Alberta Museum - A nostalgic look 11803-86 Street Verna at 479.8019 for more of North Edmonton. Marsden at dozens of classic toys from the 1950s and ‘60s that have entertained ph: 477.2354 information. worked at Swift Canada and his and captivated children for decades. The exhibition explores the toys’ coach, a fellow co-worker, worked invention, evolution/cultural significance in North America. Kid Stuff Elmwood Park For community ice times call the as a butcher. Call Bud at features interactive, hands-on activities for kids of all ages. Infoline: 75 Street & 125 Avenue community hot lline 451.6390 if you have any infor- 453.9100 or go to www.royalalbertamuseum.ca. Note: Saturday and ph: 479.1035 at 471.1932 mation to help his search. Sunday from 9-11am admission is HALF PRICE . Parkdale Cromdale NEEDED: WEST EDMONTON MALL Teen Gamers Palace, Free music, food, prizes, internet, Playstation 11335-85 Street The Rat Creek Press needs board SPECIALS: 2, Dance Dance Revolution, Karaoke and more at Sprucewood Library ph: 471.4410 members, writers, reporters, dis- Toddler Time at Galaxyland and (11555-95 Street). Friday, Dec 9 from 8-10 pm. For teen ages 12-17 tribution coordinator & calendar the World Waterpark, Monday to – bring your school ID. Spruce Avenue coordinator. Thursday from 12-3 pm for chil- The Sal: Teen Drop-in, Tue-Fri 3:30-5pm at Edmonton 10240-115 Avenue dren 5 and under. $5 admission Crossroads Church (Salvation Army) 11661-95 Street. ph: 471.1932 HISTORICAL INFO per child for each park includes Christmas Bake Sale, Saturday, Dec 10 from 11am - 2pm. Come NEEDED: one free chaperone. Not valid on and stock up on cookies, squares, tarts and other Christmas goodies in Westwood Do you have any info, photos or holidays. “Wacky Wednesdays” at time for Christmas entertaining. St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 12139-105 Street memorabilia on amateur boxing Galaxyland. Single day pass for 8715-118 Avenue, 477.8677. ph: 474.1979 in our community? Bud Timko only $9.95.

Solid Rock Evangel Church HOURS Meeting at Chapel Colosseum B&B Monday - Tuesday 10 am-8 pm Wednesday - Friday 1 pm-8 pm 11827 - 85 Street SPRUCEWOOD LIBRARY Saturday 10 am-5 pm Worship: Sundays 11am 11555 - 95 Street, 780.496.7099 Sunday closed Wednesday 7pm Pastor: Stanley Burdett Ph: 463-5950 FREE MEETING ROOM Star Wars Movie Nights Bomb! Pop! Whizz! Fizzle! This Sprucewood’s large meeting room 5:30 p.m. Thursdays, Feb 2 to program is TRULY ‘da bomb’ as All Welcome can accommodate 50 seated par- 16. For ages 10 and up. A long you will learn how to make your ticipants with standing room. Our time ago in a galaxy far away...in own bath bombs. room is bookable both during and a library on the outskirts of space, after library hours. a small group of Rebel spaceships ADULTS will be viewing the original “Star Bellydancing Intro CHILDREN Wars” trilogy. 6:45 p.m. Monday, Jan 16. Have Family Storytime loads of fun while learning some 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec 5; 6:30 An Afternoon of Unfortunate basic moves. p.m. Tuesday, Jan 31 & Apr 25. Events 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb 4. Stories, songs, activities and fun For ages 9-14. Dear Reader, You Yoga for Beginners for everyone. Join our storytellers have undoubtedly registered for 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Jan 23 to and make your visit to the library this program by mistake, but it is Mar 6. This introductory program a family fun time. not too late. Drop out now and will guide participants to physi- save yourself. The library, alas, has cal well-being through a series of Fabulous Readers’ Club committed itself to recounting the gentle yoga exercises. Teens are 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec 10, Jan 14, most unfortunate events of the welcome. Feb 11, Mar 11, Apr 8 & May Baudelaire orphans. Perhaps you 13. It’s the home stretch! Enjoy would prefer to attend another Build Your Own Website some games, win some prizes and, program, one that involves ice 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan 28. Learn of course, read GREAT books! cream or puppies. This program the basic fundamentals of html Grades 4 and up. involves such miserable occur- and how you can create your first rences as glum games, awful website using your free account Norwood Neighbourhood Read & Screen; A Family Literacy activities and, possibly, even from Yahoo. Basic computer and Association Day Program 2 p.m. Saturday, carnivorous crafts. Internet knowledge is required. Jan 28. Celebrate literacy with Next Meeting Wednesday, Dec 14 at 7pm at Norwood Centre 9516-114 Avenue. Feel free to join us. your family! Listen to a story, TEENS watch a short movie, and sample D.I.Y: Do It Yourself LIBRARY PROGRAMS Volunteers needed for Casino food from other countries. Join in 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan 21, Feb 25, Please call 496.7099 and register including chair and coordinator. Casino dates Feb 22 & 23. the fun and activities and maybe Mar 18, Apr 22 & May 20. For for programs unless they are Day and night shifts. win a prize. ages 13-18. On Jan. 21 - Da specified as drop-in programs. Contact Darcy 479-0963 or Margaret 440-1534

16 RAT CREEK PRESS DECEMBER 2005/JANUARY 2006