JANUARY 2020 YOUR OFFICIAL COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER the BRINGING WEST SPRINGS, COUGAR RIDGE, & WENTWORTH TOGETHER

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Call for details: Call for Details: EngelCall & forVölkers details: 141-339 Aspen GlenEngel Landing & Völkers SW • Calgary140, 215 - 9th Ave SW [email protected] • 403.829.3776 Aspen Glen • 587-355-6624 Landing • [email protected] SW • 140, • www 215.calgary.evcanada.com - 9th Ave SW [email protected] • 587-355-6624 • www.calgary.evcanada.com

©2018 ENGEL & VÖLKERS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. EACH BROKERAGE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED. ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED IS DEEMED RELIABLE BUT IS NOT GUARANTEED AND SHOULD BE INDEPENDENTLY VERIFIED. IF YOUR PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY REPRESENTED BY A ©2018 ENGEL & VÖLKERS. ALL RIGHTSREAL RESERVED. ESTATE BROKER, EACH BROKERAGE THIS IS NOT IS AN INDEPENDENTLY ATTEMPT TO SOLICIT OWNED YOUR AND LISTING.OPERATED. ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED IS DEEMED RELIABLE BUT IS NOT GUARANTEED AND SHOULD BE INDEPENDENTLY VERIFIED. IF YOUR PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY REPRESENTED BY A REAL ESTATE BROKER, THIS IS NOT AN ATTEMPT TO SOLICIT YOUR LISTING. JANUARY 2020 OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE WSCR COMMUNITY

8 CONTENTS

8 MARK YOUR CALENDARS 20 RESIDENT PERSPECTIVES : WALKING YOUR PET 10 RESIDENT PERSPECTIVES: IN WINTER! DOMINATING THE RAT RACE – CHINESE ZODIAC 21 WSCR COMMUNITY MYTHOLOGY ASSOCIATION YOUTH SOCCER 2020 15 12 WSCR TRAFFIC UPDATES 24 CHRISTMAS OVER 14 WEST CALGARY RING ROAD: CONTROLLED BLASTING 25 TAKE ON WELLNESS: SPREAD AWARNESS, NOT GERMS 15 THE WSCR COMMUNITY – STAY HEALTHY THIS WINTER ASSOCIATION GIVES BACK SEASON

16 #INSTAGRAMMINGHISTORY: 31 MY BABYSITTER LIST 16 33 BUSINESS CLSSIFIEDS

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within any published article, report or submission reflect those of the author and should not be considered to reflect those of Great News Media and the West Springs Cougar Ridge Community and/or Residents’ Association. The information contained in this newsletter is believed to be accurate but is not warranted to be so. Great News Media and the West Springs Cougar Ridge Community and/or Residents’ Association do not endorse any person or persons advertising in this newsletter. Publication of any advertisements should not be considered an endorsement of any goods or services.

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WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 3 The WSCR News - Designed, manufactured, and delivered monthly to 6,500 households by: GREAT NEWS MEDIA Magazine Editors Alexa Takayama Jocelyn Taylor [email protected] Design | Graphics Rosemarie Bartschak Print & Digital Joanne Bergen Marina Litvak TARGETED Freddy Meynard MARKETING Carolina Tatar BY COMMUNITY Advertising Sales Sam Brown Cindy DeJager Brittany Duval Susan Lavoie [email protected] | 403 720 0762

5 Excellent Reasons to Advertise in Community Newsletter Magazines 1. Top of Mind Brand Awareness: Consistent advertising leads to increased sales. Companies maintain and gain market share when community residents are consistently reminded of their brands. 2. Payback: Community residents trust, and call businesses that advertise in their community magazines. 3. High Readership: 68% female | Even distribution of Millennial, Gen X, and Baby Boomer readers 4. Cost Effective:With advertising rates as low as $0.01 cent per household, advertising in our community maga- zines is incredibly affordable. 5. Geofence Your Audience: Manage your budget, optimize your returns and target your audience by specific community magazines. Nearby Community Newsletter Magazines:

To Advertise Call 403 720 0762 Email [email protected] GREAT NEWS MEDIA

4 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities TRADE UP TO ONE OF OUR PRESTIGIOUS HOMES!*

Call or Text  403-606-8888 Email  [email protected]  calgaryhomesearch.com  calgaryluxuryhomesearch.com WEST SPRINGS COMMUNITY COUGAR RIDGE COMMUNITY REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY Properties Properties Avg Avg Properties Properties Avg Avg Listed Sold Listed Price Sold Price Listed Sold Listed Price Sold Price

Nov 2019 7 10 $ 549,900 $ 532,000 Nov 2019 10 8 $ 694,800 $ 643,000

Oct 2019 20 13 $ 654,450 $ 634,500 Oct 2019 6 6 $ 549,900 $ 529,812

Sep 2019 10 7 $ 634,900 $ 616,750 Sep 2019 13 6 $ 639,900 $ 633,000

Aug 2019 13 11 $ 809,700 $ 797,500 Aug 2019 6 10 $ 589,000 $ 570,000

Jul 2019 18 8 $ 1,019,000 $ 975,000 Jul 2019 8 8 $ 539,900 $ 520,000

Jun 2019 21 11 $ 739,900 $ 725,000 Jun 2019 9 10 $ 575,000 $ 563,000

May 2019 20 14 $ 859,900 $ 787,500 May 2019 23 14 $ 574,900 $ 571,500

Apr 2019 17 11 $ 829,850 $ 800,250 Apr 2019 16 12 $ 609,999 $ 599,500

Mar 2019 11 5 $ 749,900 $ 740,000 Mar 2019 11 4 $ 674,900 $ 650,000

Feb 2019 9 7 $ 725,000 $ 710,000 Feb 2019 5 3 $ 549,000 $ 522,500

Jan 2019 13 5 $ 762,500 $ 715,000 Jan 2019 14 1 $ 550,000 $ 528,500

Dec 2018 6 5 $ 613,950 $ 591,250 Dec 2018 3 3 $ 686,950 $ 676,744

To view more detailed information that comprises To view more detailed information that comprises the above MLS averages please visit the above MLS averages please visit wsp.mycalgary.com cgr.mycalgary.com

*Guarantee is being offered by Greater Property Group. Terms and Conditions Apply. MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS Membership EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE The West Springs / Cougar Ridge Community Associa- tion (WSCRCA) is a volunteer-run organization repre- Position Name Email senting all residents of West Springs and Cougar Ridge. President Paul Ghazar [email protected] We are dedicated to making our community a great Vice President Karla Gibson [email protected] place to live, work and play. Secretary Linda Nesset [email protected] Why Join? Treasurer Stacey Roznicki [email protected] All residents of West Springs and Cougar Ridge are eli- COMMITTEES gible to join, and we encourage all our neighbours to Committee Director/Volunteer Email do so. By joining, not only will you be able to vote at our Annual General Meeting and put your name forward to Charity Casino Ryan Duckworth [email protected] serve on the Board of Directors but more importantly, Communications [email protected] you will stand to receive close to $200 in savings when Newsletter Karen Riordan [email protected] participating in our various programs and taking ad- Facebook Linda Nesset [email protected] vantage of our unique offerings. Family Programs Stacey Roznicki [email protected] How much does it cost? Membership Paul Ghazar [email protected] Membership is valid for a single year from the date that you join. Membership levels are detailed below: Sponsorship Chris Tattrie [email protected] • Regular Member – $25 Development Lara Mitchell • Regular Member (Senior- 65 years and over) – $15 Planning Steve Berman [email protected] • Associate Member – $25 & Development Linda Nesset Associate members live outside the WSCRCA commu- Eileen Teasdale David Field nity boundaries. Associate members receive all the Mike Hammerlindl benefits of membership, except the right to vote and Denis Ho the right to serve on the Board of Directors. Don MacLeod JOIN NOW at www.wscr.ca Patrick Sinclair What are the benefits of membership? Soccer Chris Tattrie [email protected] As a member, you will receive: Skating Kimberly Paw [email protected] • Specialty pricing and/or free admission to many Day Camp Aidan Rogers [email protected] events and offers such as: Traffic Denis Ho [email protected] - Community Ski/Snowboard Night - Learn to Skate Program Volunteers Aidan Rogers [email protected] • WSCRCA Camp Directors at Stan Peake • Little Warriors, Girl Power and Good Guys Programs Large Tanya Bogusky-Ghazar • “Members only” offers from our sponsors • Many other programs and event offerings throughout FOLLOW US ON the year Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wscrca/ • Eligibility to register your kids in the WSCRCA Soccer Program Twitter: @WSCRCA • Priority registration for WSCRCA offerings and events Instagram: @wscrca • The right to vote at the Annual General Meeting, if you Website: https://wscr.ca live within the WSCRCA boundaries

6 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 7 Membership Has Its Mark Your Privileges Calendars Welcome to the Neighbourhood! WSCRCA Board Meetings are held on the second Become a WEST SPRINGS/COUGAR RIDGE COMMUNITY Tuesday (7-9pm) of each month, except July and Au- ASSOCIATION member today! gust. They are typically held in the upstairs commu- ONLY $25 per HOUSEHOLD per YEAR nity room of the Calgary Co-Op on 85th Street SW. All residents are welcome to attend these meetings. If you *Senior’s rate $15 would like to discuss a particular issue or idea, please • Priority registration and discounts for WSCRCA run notify Linda Nesset, our secretary, by email a week be- programs and events such as WSCR Soccer, WinSport fore the meeting: [email protected]. Night,Learn to Skate, Safe4Kids classes, Yoga, as well as promo deals with WSCR businesses. UPCOMING EVENTS • Support for a more vibrant community. Your member- Preschool Skate 2020 ship fees help run our community-wide events like Re- January 7 to March 20 cycling Day, Skate Park, Day Camp and the Dog PAWty. Soccer 2020 Registration • Be the first to know what is going on in WSCR through January 19 members only emails. • The right to vote at the AGM if you are a WSCR resident. WinSport Family Ski/Tubing Night • Your collective voice with The City of Calgary and the February 16 Alberta Government regarding issues such as the Ring Road, traffic, development, safety and crime. • Be involved in planning events and programs brought into your community by being a WSCRCA volunteer. ESL Conversation • DID YOU KNOW: You may become a WSCRCA member and participate in our offerings/events even if you are Café - Free NOT a resident of West Springs or Cougar Ridge. Tuesday mornings, 9:30 to 11 a.m. Buy your membership online at wscr.ca/membership/ Or mail a cheque to #138, Unit 406, 917 - 85th Street SW, FREE English Conversation (ESL) Cafe - Join us to Calgary, Alberta, T3H 5Z9 practice speaking English, learn about Canadian culture and meet other people. Drop-in at the SCA Community Centre (277 Strathcona Dr. SW) for a few classes or join us every week. For more information about this free program, please contact Martha at [email protected] or call 403-245-1726. All welcome! Offered by St. Martin’s Anglican Church and the SCA Community Centre. Classes go from Septem- ber 17 to December 3 (2019), January 14 to March 17 (2020), and April 7 to June 2 (2020).

8 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities You can stay in touch with your community by following us on Facebook and joining this FB Group. It’s a great way to grow our community and keep up to date on what is happening in WSCR.

The WSCR Garage Sales Group: Here you can post an ad for your upcoming garage or yard sales, and what garage sales are happening in our communities (West Springs, Cougar Ridge & Wentworth). Follow this group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WSCRgaragesales/

Follow the main WSCRCA Page here: https://www.facebook.com/wscrca/

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WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 9 RESIDENT PERSPECTIVES

Chinese Zodiac Mythology by Alexa Takayama

This year, Chinese New Year falls in the same month as the the Dragon. The Jade Emperor asked why a flying crea- western calendar’s New Year, so I figured I’d take advan- ture had taken so long to cross the river. The Dragon tage of this unusual stroke of coincidence by talking about explained that it had stopped by a village to bring rain, some of the mythology behind the Chinese New Year. and then on its way to the Emperor, it had seen the Rab- bit clinging to the log. Out of compassion, it brought a This year marks the Year of the Rat—an animal from the gust of wind to blow the log ashore. Chinese zodiac. The Chinese zodiac has twelve animals: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Ram, Mon- Then the animals turned to see the Horse galloping up. key, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Each is assigned to a year As it did so, the Snake fell out of its hoof, where it had rather than a month. There are some similarities to the been hiding. Startled, the Horse leapt back, allowing the Western zodiac in that being born in the year of a certain Snake to slither forth and beat the Horse to the Emper- animal is supposed to determine aspects of your person- or, making them the sixth and seventh animals. ality but that’s not what I’m going to focus on. Instead, let me tell you the story of how these animals were selected. Next, the Ram, Monkey, and Rooster arrived. They had worked together and made it across the river. The The Jade Emperor (a Daoist deity) made a decree that Rooster had found a raft, and the Ram and Monkey had he would name the years after animals in the order that pulled weeds out of the water to ease the crossing. The they reached him. And in order to reach him, they were Ram, Monkey, and Rooster became the eight, ninth, and required to cross a river. Thirteen animals answered the tenth animals respectively. challenge. The cleverest were the Rat and the Cat, but neither were very good at swimming. Both decided to Lagging behind, the Dog came in eleventh. While it take advantage of the good-natured Ox by riding on its should’ve been a strong swimmer and a fast runner, it back, who agreed to take them across out of kindness. had gotten distracted by playing in the water. Halfway across the river, the cunning Rat pushed the Cat Just as the Emperor was going to declare the race com- off the Ox’s back and it was swept away in the current. plete, the Pig trotted in. When asked, the Pig admitted After they arrived at the far bank, the Rat jumped off the that partway through the race, it had gotten hungry, Ox’s back and ran up to the Jade Emperor. Thus, the Rat and then fallen asleep after filling its stomach. It arrived and the Ox were the first and second animals. in the nick of time.

Next came the Tiger. While a very powerful animal, the The Cat never completed the race. Sadly, it had drowned Tiger had been pushed downstream by the currents, de- in the river; it’s for this reason that cats hunt and kill rats laying its arrival. Next, the Rabbit arrived. It had crossed and also why they hate water. the river by finding a spot where it could jump stone to stone. But it had slipped into the river and seized hold Happy Chinese New Year! May it be a prosperous Year of of a floating log, which drifted to the far bank. Fifth, was the Rat for you.

10 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities Community What does the Association West Springs/ vs. Residents Cougar Ridge Association Community Residents’ / Homeowners’ Associations The community of West Springs/Cougar Ridge en- Association do? compasses several subdivisions, some of which have We run youth related programs a Residents’ or Home Owners’ Association. Both the • WSCRCA Soccer League (U4-U10) Community Association and the Residents’/Homeown- • Summer Day Camps ers’ Association play an important, but different, role in • Little Warriors Stewards of Children Workshop maintaining the standard of living in our community. • Safe4Life, GirlPower and GoodGuys Workshops • Ski/Snowboard Nights at WinSport WSCR Community Association • Learn to Skate at WinSport • Membership is voluntary. • Babysitting and HomeAlone Workshops • Represents all households within its boundaries (from Cougar Ridge to Bow Trail, 101st Street to Coach Hill) in We’re your voice at City Hall discussions with The City of Calgary, land developers, • Planning & Development Proposals schools, and other organizations. • Area Structure Plans • Organizes recreational and informative programs for • Traffic community members. • Parks & Recreation • Organizes community-wide social events. • Liaison with the City of Calgary Residents’ or Homeowners’ Association We support community initiatives • Membership is mandatory • Community Recycling & Clean-up • Annual fees, if levied, are secured by an encumbrance • Charity Stampede Breakfast registered against the property title. Fees must be paid • Charity Casino (AGLC) Fundraising in full prior to the sale of a home. • Playground Construction at Local Schools • Maintains the landscaping and other amenities in the • Adult Fitness & Yoga various public green spaces for a specific subdivision.

Accounting and Tax Services Bookkeeping - monthly, quarterly or annual • Year-end Financial Statements Corporate and Personal Tax Preparation, Filing and Planning Albert R. Rupps Professional Corporation Chartered Professional Accountant (587) 703-3961 [email protected]

WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 11 WSCR TRAFFIC UPDATES RESIDENT PERSPECTIVES

TRAFFIC UPDATE 85th St. & Wentworth Dr. SW Thank you to Councillor Davison’s office for the quick ac- Open the Door tion after the recent incidence involving a pedestrian. The following improvements have been made to the to Learning Wentworth Dr & 85 St SW intersection: by Irena M. Kongsuwan

• Installed westbound left turn arrow – Advanced pro- Family Literacy Day was developed in 1999 to celebrate tected movement during school pick up and drop off adults and children reading and learning together and times (Completed on November 27, 2019) to encourage families to spend at least 15 minutes a • Increased pedestrian walk time to 10 secs & pedestrian day enjoying a learning activity together. The positive re-call phase during school pick up and drop off times outcomes of reading out loud include connecting with (Completed on November 27, 2019) one another, increasing attention span, building self- • Upgraded the pedestrian signal heads with a larger confidence, practice in public speaking, and spreading side by side display and countdown timers (Complet- the love of reading and learning. ed on November 27, 2019) • Installed ladder crosswalks on the north and south Listening to a story introduces vocabulary, provides a legs (Completed on November 13, 2019) model of expressive reading, and provides an opportu- nity to experience the pleasure of reading. For those who The Roads Safety team will continue to monitor the in- have yet to learn to read, a picture walk is a great place tersection operation to see if any further modifications to start. Using the visual information in a story’s illustra- are required. tions we can infer and predict the unfolding story before digging in to read it together. Another good way to be- gin is by tracking words with a finger as they are said. Repeating out loud while following along takes time and patience but will expedite learning to read all while rel- ishing in the pleasure of one another’s company.

Volunteering to read aloud can be done anywhere by 7 5 anyone who can read. It is an excellent way for youth to enjoy volunteering. They can read to younger siblings, 3 9 1 8 friends, or out in the community. The Children’s Read- ing Place, The Calgary Public Library and the schools in 2 6 8 5 our neighborhoods are some of the places one could volunteer their time reading or go to listen to others 8 7 9 1 read aloud. Hearing a story brought to life by a good reader piques interest and develops a love for reading 7 5 and learning. Developing a love of reading together paves the way for spending calm, quality time together 1 2 9 4 for years to come. 3 8 7 1 Calgary Reads has tips and resources for reading aloud on their website.

8 5 2 3 Family Literacy Day on January 27, 2020. H!P’s January project is to collect books, bookmarks and book plates 6 4 to share with those who have few or no books of their own. More info is available on their web site at www. FIND SOLUTION ON PAGE 33 behip.ca.

12 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities You can stay in touch with your community by fol- lowing us on Facebook and joining this FB Group. It’s a great way to grow our community and keep up to Kidney Health date on what is happening in WSC. Awareness The WSCR Babysitters Group: A place where parents can find local babysitters, as well as where local A gracious request for a kidney donation, babysitters, aged 12-25, can add themselves to the tips on kidney health, and items to fight list to find jobs. Follow this group here: https://www. kidney disease. Email [email protected] facebook.com/groups/wscrbabysitters/ if you wish to donate. Follow the main WSCRCA Page here: https://www. Website NEEDKIDNEY.CA facebook.com/wscrca/

WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 1 3 Full 02 West Calgary Ring Road Controlled Blasting

WEST CALGARYWEST RING ROADCALGARY (WCRR) – Controlled Blasting RING ROAD Varying bedrock depths of up to 20 metres along the WCRR cannot be removed using conventional heavy construction equipment and will be removed using controlled blasting. Controlled blasting(WCRR) is the only effective – method Controlled for this work. Using the blastingBlasting for this Varyingexcavation bedrock will depthslower the of WCRR up to 20 below metres neighbouring along the homes,the rock thereby and placing reducing charges noise andbelow visual ground at planned WCRRimpacts. cannot be removed using conventional heavy locations. Quantity of charge, drill lengths, locations and constructionControlled blastingequipment is the and managed will be removed use of explosives using con -to breakcover rock are allfor engineeredexcavation. toIt invol minimizeves or eliminate im- trolleddrilling blasting. holes into Controlled the rock blasting and placing is the charges only effective below groundpacts atlike planned flying locations.debris, vibrations, Quantity sound of and dust. methodcharge, fordrill this lengths, work. locationsUsing the and blasting cover for are this all engineeredexca- Controlled to minimize blasting or eliminate activities impactswill start likein early November vationflying will debris, lower vibrations, the WCRR soundbelow andneighbouring dust. homes, and continue for approximately 10 months (Fall 2020). thereby reducing noise and visual impacts. Controlled blasting activities will start in early NovemberHours and continuerange from for 8am-5pm approximately Monday 10 to Friday, and 9am- Controlledmonths (Fall blasting 2020). is theHours managed range from use of 8am explosives-5pm Mon to day5pm to Friday, Saturdays. and 9am Initial-5pm blasts Saturdays. are presently scheduled breakInitial rock blasts for areexcavation. presently It scheduled involves drilling around holes 4pm. into around 4pm.

IMPACTS WHAT TO EXPECT MITIGATION

Noise at the property lines from the controlled blasting will be Working within The City of Calgary noise bylaw. Noise momentary and insignificant. Monitoring sound at the property lines. Sirens may be heard briefly before each blast.

Most of the explosive energy during a controlled blast is Proper design and controlled blasting. expended in fragmenting and Seismographs at several locations along the heaving the heavy rock, but a property lines to monitor vibrations. Vibrations small portion of this energy passes beyond the immediate Optional pre- and post-blasting home inspections blasting area in the form of elastic have been performed for those homes backing ground vibrations and air onto TUC. overpressure (shockwaves).

Air quality will be continuously monitored and if conditions exceed established limits, appropriate Some dust can be expected but action will be taken. Dust and air there are multiple mitigation quality strategies in place to minimize The blasted rock will be used to construct impacts. embankments for the project. Any usable gravel deposits will be removed and hauled off-site for processing (crushing). PleasePlease forward forward your your concerns concerns and and questions questions to to WSCRCA WSCRCA via via [email protected]. [email protected] Additional. Additional information is also informationavailable is also available on www.westringroad.ca on www.westringroad.ca and http://www.alberta.ca/west-calgary-ring-road.aspx and http://www.alberta.ca/west-calgary- ring-road.aspx OPEN HOUSE - WCRR Controlled Blasting Saturday Jan 11, 2020; 10:30am-12:30pm OPEN HOUSE - WCRR Controlled Blasting Winsport - Markin MacPhail Centre Open to residents of WSCRCA. Free parking is available above the gate on Canada Olympic Rd, across from the mini golf.

14 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities The WSCR Community Association Gives Back

At this time of year your West Springs/Cougar Ridge Communi- ty Association (WSCRCA) likes to give back to the community. This year, three different, well deserving, non-profit organiza- tions were chosen by the board for donations of $2,500 each: the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (Christmas Hamper Program through our local St. Michael Catholic Community), the Calgary and Area Child Advocacy Centre, and the Veterans Food Bank.

Paul Ghazar (WSCRCA President), Karla Gibson (WSCRCA Vice President), Stacey Roznicki (WSCRCA Treasurer) presented the donation to Jeanne Besner (St. Vincent de Paul Society Presi- dent). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul visits and supports families in need year-round, but at Christmas the program grows to provide 175 households with a hamper containing a week of groceries and the gift requested for each school-aged child. Donations may be arranged by calling: 403-249-0423.

The Veterans Food Bank was very grateful to be the recipient of our donation, presented by Stacey Roznicki and Linda Nesset (WSCRCA secretary) to Donna Boechler. The Veterans Food Bank not only provides emergency relief of food insecurity to veter- ans with their food hampers. They also have resources to help with housing issues, integration support, health and wellness, and provide a safe place to meet and socialize. You can help out our veterans by calling the Veterans Food Bank at 403-471-9851. They have an immediate need for crock pots for their cooking program, and new day back packs.

Stacey and Linda were also honoured to present the WSCRCA donation to Karen Orser, CEO of the Calgary and Area Child Advocacy Centre. This amazing orga- nization offers hope, help, and healing for children, youth, and families who are survivors of abuse. Those affected by abuse can access this community that provides therapy and support in one single location. The CCAC and their partner organizations provide wrap-around services to assess, investigate, intervene, and support survivors of child abuse while bringing offenders to justice. Donations to the CCAC may be made here: donate.calgarycac.ca. If you are interested in volunteering, visit https://calgarycac.ca/volunteer/.

WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 1 5 #INSTAGRAMMINGHISTORY Fort Calgary 750 9 Avenue SE by Jocelyn Taylor

This month, we’re going to take a look at Fort Calgary. Now, I recognize that it is cold out, and likely not the best time to go venture out and explore outdoorsy places. My hope, however, is that this is somewhere Macdonald because he possessed military experience that can be added to your spring/summer/fall (which, (he fought in the American Civil War), and was also a in Calgary, could all occur in one day) excursions! Fort Conservative. Fair warning, this is where the story gets Calgary is located at the intersection of and rather problematic. When the fort was being estab- Elbow Rivers, which provides a stunning spot for pho- lished, it was initially named Fort Brisebois; however, tographs. Additionally, if you’re making a day of it, St. he was unable to establish discipline among his men, Patrick’s Island is across the river, and is one of the love- and, unfortunately, there was discrimination against his liest parks in the city. common-law wife due to her Metis heritage. This led to some major drama between him and his division and Fort Calgary was constructed in 1875, and is now a his superior officer, James Macleod, prompting an even- federally and provincially recognized and protected tual name change. Named after Calgary House, a castle site. Back in the day, in roughly 1874, the North-West at Calgary Bay on the Isle of Mull in Scotland, Fort Cal- Mounted Police sent a group of 150 men from Manito- gary was born. ba to what is now Calgary, which allowed for settlement in the area. Why did they head out here, you ask? Well, So, what is happening there now? Well, the City of Cal- there was some shady business afoot. There was illegal gary purchased Fort Calgary in 1974, and was reopened whiskey trading occurring throughout the country, so as a historical site and museum in 1978. Today, the Fort Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald created the North- is undergoing significant changes, due to the work of West Mounted Police to intercept these trades and shut the Fort Calgary Preservation Society. In 2006, a three- down the whiskey-invasion. Personally, this sounds like phase plan was unveiled, with each phase tackling a dif- the perfect way to get free whiskey, but that’s none of ferent portion of the area. Phase one restored the Deane my business… and Hunt houses, which are located in the same area as Fort Calgary. The second phase was the installation of Once the men reached the area, they began construc- Markings¸ the 1875 Fort Interpretation Exhibit. The final tion on their base. Fort Calgary was one of the first phase is the New Museum Project, which will create a North-West Mounted Police Outposts in western Cana- new 12,750 square foot museum and a partial renova- da. The building of the outpost led to the establishment tion of the barracks from 1888. Fort Calgary provides of permanent settlements in the area. Around this time, a glimpse into what life would have been like back in the Canadian Pacific Railroad was consistently expand- the day, allowing visitors to reflect on the changes to ing across the country, which made settlement in the the city, while also appreciating the work of those who area more lucrative. By 1883, the whiskey and buffalo came before us. Additionally, the work of organiza- trade had slowed, but the CPR had arrived, which en- tions like the Fort Calgary Preservation Society ensure sured people stayed, and that growth would continue. that historical landmarks continue to evolve, creating a strong connection to the past in our modern society. I As per most historical events, the establishment of Fort hope you’re able to go and check it out! Calgary was not free of controversy. Ephrem-A. Brise- bois was one of the commanding officers in the North- Information courtesy of the City of Calgary Inventory of West Mounted Police. He was appointed by Sir John A. Historic Resources and www.FortCalgary.com.

16 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities YOUR CITY OF CALGARY Compost Your Real Christmas Tree Option 1: Put your tree in your green cart • Cut your tree into smaller pieces to fit inside your green cart (make sure the lid can close). • Put extra branches into paper yard waste bags, roll closed and set one foot to the side of the Trees that are not prepared this way will not be collected. Option 2 – Take to a Tree Drop-Off Location You can bring your Christmas tree to a tree drop-off from December 26 to January 31. Marda Loop Communities Association 3130 16th Street S.W. North Glenmore Park 6615 37 Street S.W. (Weaselhead parking Be a Snow Angel lot) This winter, when you’re shovelling your sidewalk Sacramento Parks Depot from yet another storm, look around your neigh- 10400 Sacramento Drive S.W. bourhood and see if there is anyone who may need For landfill hours and program informa- your help. Maybe they are elderly, or disabled, or go- tion, please visit calgary.ca/ ing through a serious illness that doesn’t allow them christmastree. to shovel their sidewalks. Be a Snow Angel and shov- el their walks for them. All residents are required to A New Year’s Resolution clear their sidewalks of snow and ice 24 hours after the snow stops falling. Those who fail to clear their to Support Calgary Businesses and sidewalks could face a hefty fine. Be a good neigh- Buy Local bour and be a Snow Angel. Calgarians love local businesses and The City of Calgary is If your neighbour has been a Snow Angel to you, call helping these businesses get the word out to Calgarians to 311 to let The City know and we will send you a letter buy local. If you’re a Calgary business, show your roots with to give them. If you are a Snow Angel, or have been pride and use tools and resources from The City’s marketing visited by one, snap a photo, share it on the City of toolkit to promote your local business—just visit calgary.ca/ Calgary’s social media with #SnowAngelYYC. buylocal. If you’re a proud Calgarian, support Calgary’s come- back and spread the word about your favourite local busi- Visit calgary.ca/snowangels for details. nesses and post to #BuyLocalYYC.

Finding good tenants is hard. We make it easy. Let’s get started. 403.244.6944 www.rlg.ca Call me: Brad Currie, Broker/President Residential Leasing Group Inc. Your Property Is Our Priority.

WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 1 7 18 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities SERVICES OFFERED • Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation CREATING HEALTHY SMILES • Clear and Metal Braces FOR LIFE IN CALGARY! • Invisalign for Kids, Teens and Adults www.truenorthortho.ca • Sport Mouthguards 403-720-0044 • Retainers [email protected] • Flexible Financing 215 - 333 Aspen Glen Landing SW No Referral Required Calgary, AB T3H 0N6 Book your complimentary consultation at True North Orthodontics and learn how you can improve your smile! Dr. Colby Gage | Dr. Leagh Harfield RESIDENT PERSPECTIVES

but there are exceptions to the large dog group. Dogs with long guard hairs and thick downy undercoats like shepherds and huskies do fine, but dogs with short fine fur like Dobermans or Weimaraners have little tolerance for cold. Fortunately, pet stores stock doggie coats from your basic knitted sweater to fine sartorial splendor de- pending on the taste of the human companion. Some people believe a mat of hair over the dog’s foot pads will pro- tect them. Or they’ll justify the whole dog getting a thick unkempt matted coat saying it will keep them warm. Not true. Matted fur on the paws tends to stay wet, collect ice balls, and hold chemi- cals such as de-icing agents and salt against the skin. A dog’s paws will adjust to the cold more effectively if the hair is kept reasonably short and clean. After walks rinse and dry your pet’s feet if you sus- pect he has walked through chemicals. Matted coats get wet, stay wet, and have no ability to insulate your pet. Well-groomed coats insulate from cold in winter and heat in summer. Some dogs just can’t tolerate cold paws no matter what you do. Consider booties for these individuals. Booties and mukluks come in all shapes and sizes for dogs. It is important that the boot breath Walking and not compromise the blood flow to the paw. Online pet stores and local pet stores carry an array of boots for dogs. If you have a large active pet that will need heavy-duty boots you may want to Your Pet consider custom-made footwear. Along with their fur keep your pet’s nails clipped. In our winters, nails in Winter! may split as your pet goes in and out from the cold and damp and nails may benefit from supplements such as omega fatty acids or fish oils. by Jennifer L. Scott B.Sc., D.V.M. My old Labrador would push through the roughest ground cover Well, those people who forecast these things on the scent of a bird, but in the city he had very sensitive feet and say we are starting a long cold winter in Cal- could not tolerate rock salt on his paws at all. Nor would he tolerate gary. I don’t always want to walk my dog, but boots. I used a paw wax on his feet. Applied to the pad these waxes he is ready and willing. Most dogs are amazing- seal the paw and protect the skin from ice and chemicals. They also ly well equipped to deal with the cold weather, protect the pads from cracking with dryness as the dogs go in and but not every breed or individual can deal with out. If your dog tolerates his feet touched the paw waxes are very this kind of cold without precautions. easy to use. Vaseline is a cheap alternative but lasts only a short time outside and can pick up unwanted dirt. When dogs first walk on the cold snow you often see them limp or hold a paw up as Darkness comes earlier in the winter, there are some great lights you they run around. Then given some time they can attach to your pet’s collar to make sure you and others see him seem to become more comfortable. A dog’s in off-leash parks. If you do cut back on exercise and walks with your pads are equipped with a very effective heat pet in intensely cold weather, cut back on the calories going in the exchange system. Once the paw’s blood bowl too! Like us, weight on our pets is easier to keep off than take vessels adjust to the cold, and if the pad is off. Finally remember, like us, as dogs become elderly or arthritic, dry and healthy, the average dog can toler- they may require more protection from the elements than they did ate most very cold surfaces. Smaller dogs in their prime. Be as conscious of a senior pet potentially slipping on tend to be less tolerant than large breeds, the ice as you would be of an elderly relative.

20 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities WSCR Community Association Youth Soccer

WSCRCA is preparing for its 2020 youth (U4-U10) spring soccer program. Our program typically has 500-600 kids each year. We focus on grass- roots soccer where kids can come out and play in our own community. It’s open to boys and girls of all skill levels and experience. Our U4 & U6 age groups have boys and girls play on the same teams. Boys and girls are segregated for our U8 & U10 age groups. WSCRCA participates in an inter-community U10 league, which is organized by a 3rd party. Travel is limited to communities located in Ward 6.

Soccer registration will open Sunday, January 19, 2020. Early bird pric- ing is offered for a limited time so take advantage of it while it lasts. We have expanded the capacity for some of our age groups to help with increased demand. We plan to start our season May 2, 2020 (weather permitting). Members will receive email reminders from us. You can also follow our Facebook page (facebook.com/wscrca) or watch our website (wscrc.ca) for updates.

We realize kids’ sports can be expensive and we do our best to keep fees as low as possible. One of the ways we are able to keep our costs down is through strong local business partnerships. Tim Hortons is a return- ing sponsor who wanted to expand its support to include our U10s and all food/drinks for our U4-U8 year-end tournament. We believe our pro- gram offers incredible value with each player receiving a jersey, socks, shorts, medal, ball, photo and coaches receive a jersey.

Our soccer program is 100% volunteer-run. Parents of players play a critical role in making the program feasible by volunteering their time to specific roles (i.e. coaching, equipment manager, team manager, etc.). If you would like to learn more about how you can help support our pro- gram and/or about volunteering opportunities, please reach out to us at [email protected].

We received great feedback on our first year of having our coaches ob- tain police checks and look forward to doing the same again this year. The management and tracking of the police checks is an important part of process. We are looking for a volunteer to help us with this. It’s a great way to give back and volunteering commitment is limited to the start of the season. Please reach out to us at [email protected] if you would like to learn more!

Chris Tattrie, WSCRCA Soccer Coordinator YOUR CITY OF CALGARY Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle Right This Holiday Season This holiday season, make sure your gift wrap, boxes and make even less waste to put in a bin by reducing and Christmas food scraps end up in the right cart. Better yet, reusing more items this Christmas! Put holiday waste in its place Follow these tips and ideas to make your holiday season a little less wasteful.

Reduce Reuse Recycle or compost

Give the gift of an Wrap using: Crumple wrapping experience – tickets, • Paper bags or gift boxes. paper into a ball, Gifts and lessons, outdoor activities. put in blue cart. wrapping • Jars or tins. • Fabrics or dishtowels. No metallic or foil gift wrap.

Check what you have at Use reusable containers for Compost unusable food scraps, home before you shop. leftovers instead of plastic toothpicks, paper napkins and plates, Make a list and buy only wrap or tin foil. put in green cart. what you need. Save bones for soup stock. Recycle empty, clean and dry tin cans, Cooking and glass and plastic containers. entertaining Skip the paper napkins in favour of cloth ones.

Keep clean Donate gently used Take old electronics to an electronics wrapping household items like recycling drop-off. Christmas paper and working electronics, cleanup gift bags for furniture, clothing and toys next year. to a local charity.

For more holiday tips, visit calgary.ca/recycleright

Cassowaries, large flightless birds native to rainforests in parts of Australasia, lay eggs in two colours: an unremark- able pale blue, or a vivid bright green.

(We could not find free stock images of green cassowary eggs, so pictured are swan eggs photoshopped to the right colour.)

22 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 2 3 COMIC

by Joni Righthand

24 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities TAKE ON WELLNESS

Spread Awarness, Not Germs: Stay Healthy This Winter Season

With seasonal illness circulating, remember to protect Stay home if you are sick: If you’re experiencing illness, your health and prevent illness. including fever, cough, diarrhea and/or vomiting, stay home from work, school, daycare or any social function. Get immunized: Immunization is one of the most effec- Please also do not visit family, friends or loved ones in tive ways of protecting yourself against influenza viruses hospitals, care facilities or seniors’ lodges, until you have already circulating in our communities. It’s not too late fully recovered. to be immunized. Vaccine continues to be offered to all Albertans (six months of age and older), free of charge. Mind your food prep: If you are sick, do not prepare Remember: it takes up to two weeks after receiving your food for anyone, until fully recovered. When you are influenza immunization to be protected against influen- cooking, always keep safe food handling practices top za, so make plans to get your vaccine today! For more in- of mind. formation, visit www.albertahealthservices.ca/influenza or call Health Link at 811. Around the house: Keep household surfaces clean, using a household cleaner. Think creatively when host- Cover your cough: Cover your nose and mouth with a ing gatherings; choose single serve food items instead tissue when sneezing or coughing. If you don’t have a of offering bowls of unwrapped snacks to all. Always tissue, always cough or sneeze into your arm, not into thank others for declining invites due to illness. your hands. Throw away tissues after wiping your nose or covering a cough and wash your hands. Year-round: Keep yourself in good health by covering the basics: get enough rest, eat a balanced diet includ- Clean your hands: Using soap and warm water wash ing at least five servings of fruit and vegetables each your hands thoroughly and often, including after day, and exercise regularly. Finally, if you drink alcohol, coughing, sneezing, using tissues or the washroom, and do so in moderation and don’t drink and drive. before eating or preparing food. Alcohol-based hand rub or sanitizer can also be helpful if hands are not vis- For more information on these and other wellness ibly soiled. Clean or dirty: always try to keep your hands topics, visit www.myhealth.alberta.ca, or call Health and fingers away from your eyes, nose and mouth. Link at 811.

WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 2 5 An Update on the TRAN Report: Assessing the Impact of Aircraft Noise in the Vicinity of Major Canadian Airports

Submitted by West Calgary Air Traffic Concerns Committee, @info_wcatc

This report, tabled in Parliament on March 19th, 2019, ing communities that no one is directly responsible for contains many recommendations which would im- the issues detailed in the report. Evasive phrases such prove the quality of life for those of us who suddenly as “encourage collaboration,” “continue to pursue,” “will find ourselves residing beneath busy aircraft corridors consider engagement,” and “continue to support,” ap- and routes. Recommendation #6, which proposes a shift pear frequently and set the tone of his response. of the extremely busy Sarcee corridor to outside of city limits, would go a long way to taking the pressure off of With respect to Recommendation #6, Garneau’s re- West Calgary communities. sponse is that “The Government…is confident that NavCanada and airport operators will continue work- So, what has happened to this report since tabling? The ing together to identify balanced operational practices.” first step was a perfunctory response by the Minister of But West Calgary communities continue to be overly Transport, Marc Garneau. He states that “aviation noise impacted by aircraft noise and concentrated volume is- management is a shared responsibility” which “requires sues. It is unclear exactly what is currently being done in collaboration among different levels of government as regard to balanced operational practices and what the well as the air industry.” Essentially, this response is tell- future will look like for forcibly overflown communities as air travel increases.

Our M.P, Ron Liepert, who was a member of the now- disbanded TRAN Committee which produced this re- port states that “there are no defined deadlines when decisions are required or warranted.” Marc Garneau has Despite the name, a Sundra flying lemur is not been reappointed Minister of Transport and, according a lemur, nor can it fly. This lemur thrives while to Ron Liepert, “ultimately it will be up to him to decide climbing, and has kite-shaped skin that can be what to do with the report.” expanded to allow it to glide. While walking, Please contact Marc Garneau [email protected] however, the lemur will simply hop until it and Ron Liepert [email protected] to voice your returns to a spot where it can climb and glide. It concerns about air traffic and to insist that the Report’s seems like false advertising to me… recommendations are implemented.

26 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities TAKE ON WELLNESS

other month to catch any concerns before they become problems.

If you have more time, you could supervise children on the playground, volunteer to tutor struggling students or join the school council.

Typically, parents tend to be more involved in the earlier grades. You may want to read to the class or individual students, or share your culture through food, music and celebrations. How to Stay Involved in It’s just as important, however, to maintain that school connection in the later grades. You could chaperone for Your Child’s Education a ski trip, or help kids fill out university or college appli- cations. This is a critical time in your teen’s life, and your Parental involvement in a child’s education is import- presence as a role model, navigating new boundaries and ant to youth development. It’s one of a series of positive setting expectations with them, can’t be understated. qualities and experiences, known as the 40 Develop- No matter your child’s age, you may want to start by ask- mental Assets. ing them how they might like you involved with school. The non-profit Search Institute has identified these Or ask what they like about other parents who help out. assets as the building blocks of healthy development. Check in with the teacher or principal to find out what’s The more assets a young person has, the more likely really needed in the school community. they are to thrive and grow up healthy, caring and re- As a family, you can demonstrate that school is import- sponsible. The fewer they have, the more likely they are ant to everyone. Make attending school events a prior- to engage in risky behaviours. ity and schedule them on the family calendar. Consider But before you say, “I’m sure they don’t want me at reading the same book your child has been assigned school,” remember this: Your children are proud of you and talk about it at dinner. Attend all parent-teacher and love having the chance to show you off to their conferences with your child so that everyone is on the teachers. same page about challenges, strengths and goals.

Everyone is busy, but a little can go a long way. Consider We all want our children to grow into caring, responsible speaking at career day. Help out at a classroom party or and productive adults. Parental involvement in school is sports event. Or simply check in with the teacher every one of the ways to help get them there.

Literary scholars have suggested that the magical ‘moly’ herb used as a cure against Circe’s poison in Homer’s Odyssey could be the snowdrop plant. Ironic, given that its bulbs are quite toxic to humans.

WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 2 7 YOUR CITY OF CALGARY Free January Events with warm stew. Snow games and hot chocolate will be pro- vided for all families to enjoy. All Ages + Adult the City of Calgary Sunday, January 26, 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. Winter Pop Up ‘N’ Play - Free South Glenmore Park, 8415 24 St. S.W. Embrace the winter and come out and play with your All Sport One City Adult version - Free family. This play experience is for children to explore, Looking to experience a new sport or physical activ- create and imagine their own way in winter play. Staff ity for the first time or renew an interest? Calgary Rec- will provide basic materials to foster independent and reation is partnering with Sport Calgary to showcase imaginative play. Ages: 3Y - 10Y + Adult. some of our facility amenities and programs with a Saturday, January 11, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. week of free activities for adults. Get active, have fun New Brighton Athletic Park, 5801 130 Ave. S.E., Calgary and make some new friends. Online registration opens Winter Pop Up ‘N’ Play - Free January 1, 2020. Visit sportcalgary.ca/all-sport-one-city. Embrace the winter and come out and play with your Assorted dates and times from January 18 - 26, 2020 family. This play experience is for children to explore, Bob Bahan Aquatics & Fitness Centre, Canyon Mead- create and imagine their own way in winter play. Staff ows Aquatics & Fitness Centre, Max Bell Centre, Village will provide basic materials to foster independent and Square Leisure Centre. imaginative play. Ages: 3Y – 10Y + Adult. Sharing Dance - Free , Sunday, January 12 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Be part of a massive, nation-wide celebration of South Glenmore Park, 8415 24 St. S.W. dance! Learn the 2020 Sharing Dance routine for free Free Snoga Lesson with a professional dancer. National Ballet School of Embrace winter and the benefits of spending active Canada is partnering with artists across the country to time outdoors. A certified yoga instructor will lead the engage all Canadians in this shared expression of joy. class through a series of warmth inducing movements. Visit sharingdance.ca. Participants are asked to bring a yoga mat, water bottle Join us 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. on select Saturdays from and dress accordingly. 13 yrs. & older. January 18 to June. Sunday January 12, 12:00 - 12:45 p.m. Wildflower Arts Centre, 3363 Spruce Drive S.W. South Glenmore Park, 8415 24 St. S.W. Watch for Your 2020 Property Assessment Notice Assessment notices are now available. The City of Cal- gary mailed the notices Jan. 2, 2020 and they are also available online. The information contained in these as- sessment notices will be used to prepare the 2020 prop- erty tax bills. You can check, review and compare your notice online. Plus, sign up for eNotices.

Outdoor Winter Crafts - Free Customer Review Period (Jan. 2 - March 10, 2020) Bundle up and be inspired by nature as you craft in the If you have any questions about your property assess- outdoors. Crafting supplies will be provided, dress for ment, contact Assessment at 403-268-2888 during the the weather. Ages: 4Y – 10Y + Adult Customer Review Period on now until March 10, 2020. Thursday, January 16, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Our website can help New Brighton Athletic Park, 5801 130 Ave. S.E. Visit calgary.ca/assessment to get more information, Pop Up Winter Picnic & Games - Free access Assessment Search, and sign up for paperless Pack your cozy blankets, scarves & mittens. Wrap your eNotices. By logging into Assessment Search, you can hot sandwiches in foil and fill your thermoses with review your assessment, compare it to other similar properties and more.

28 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities Encroachment on CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEED City-Owned Land Encroachment is an issue in many Calgary communities Free Estimates 403.256.9282 as homeowners extend their properties into park land. www.jacksonandjacksonlandscaping.ca The City has identified several areas where encroach- ment has happened and is working with homeowners WE SPECIALIZE IN ALL FORMS OF to remove the encroachment. CONSTRUCTION & LANDSCAPE Encroachment is prohibited onto park lands by the Parks INCLUDING SMALLER IN-HOME PROJECTS and Pathway Bylaw, and onto other environmental re- serve lands by the Municipal Government Act (Alberta). Bathroom & Basement Remodeling Calgary’s parks are for all Calgarians to enjoy and are not Custom Decks & Fences to be used exclusively by a small number of individuals over an extended period of time. As well, some park Affordable Custom Landscape Plans lands are created to help protect delicate ecosystems in Stamped & Exposed Concrete communities and help reduce slope erosion and other Retaining Walls damage to our local environment.

“The City is contacting homeowners who have en- BEFORE & AFTER RENOVATION PROJECTS croached onto City-owned land to let them know this is not acceptable. Some homeowners may not even be aware that they are building beyond their legal prop- erty line,” says Nico Bernard, Calgary Parks Manager De- velopment and Capital Services. “Home owners should check their legal property report, especially if they back onto a park or green space.” BEFORE AFTER

Fines for encroachment can range from $500 and $10,000 for home owners who do not voluntarily re- move the encroachment. For more information, call 311 or visit calgary.ca and search Bylaws Related to Parks and Pathways.

BEFORE AFTER

During the Victorian period, there was an obsession with fern plants, known as pteridomania, or “fern fever”. Because of this craze, portions of wild fern species

were significantly reduced, the BEFORE AFTER effects of which can still be seen today. Free Estimates 403.256.9282 www.jacksonandjacksonlandscaping.ca

WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 2 9 Dick McDougall, WSET 3, Fine Vintage Certified is a high school calculus teacher and a self-employed sommelier in Calgary

My New Year’s resolution is to share some of the great wines I have tasted in the past year. Don’t worry, I keep it in the $20 to $40 per bottle “wheel house!” Here are three reds that have been frequenting my cellar (ok, wine fridge) in 2019.

I cannot get enough of the 2015 Fog Crest Pinot Noir from the Russian River Val- ley in Sonoma. I am usually not a big fan of California Pinots as they only require 75% of that particular grape to use the varietal labeling. In Oregon, it’s 85% and in Burgundy 100%. The higher the ratio of Pinot Noir, the higher the quality as this grape does not play well with others. This stunner is 100% Pinot Noir with a spectacular balance of baked cherry and spice. There is a complexity and earthi- ness only expected in a very high-end wine.

Second up is a Spanish treat, the 2008 Rioja Bordin Gran Reserva. Gran Reser- va’s from Rioja must be aged a minimum of five years with two years in oak. The fact that you can get a twelve-year-old wine at about $30 is crazy value. This is a full-bodied blend of Tempranillo, Mazuelo and Graciano. Tempranillo loves oak and the time in barrel allows for the tannins to soften and create a powerful wine with a pleasing finish. I love the balsamic vibe this wine brings too. Three Last but definitely not least is the 2014 Roquette and Cazes from the Douro in Portugal. A wine that pairs the power and sun of Portugal with the finesse and elegance of Bordeaux. It is a blend of Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Must-try Tinta Roriz, the same varietals used to make Port. As you taste you will pick up on the Port flavors less the sweetness. It is a powerhouse that can stand up with good quality wines from Bordeaux but it comes without the Bordeaux Reds price tag. These wines are all available locally and can be found by using the Liquor Con- for 2020 nect website at www.liquorconnect.com.

Pomum Granatum The word garnet (the birthstone of January) comes from a Middle English word meaning “dark red” which in turn comes from the Latin word for grain/ seed, granum. This has led to speculation that the original word could be a reference to dark red pomegranate seeds.

30 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities West Springs / Cougar Ridge

MLA, Calgary-Bow Demetrios Nicolaides 6307 Bowness Rd NW, Calgary, Name Age Contact Course AB Canada T3B 0E4 403-216-5400 Alexi 19 403-836-5291 Yes 403-216-5402 [email protected] Andrea 44 403-796-7840 Yes

Angelica 24 403-805-2008 Yes Dear Neighbours, Caitlin 16 403-988-9255 Yes Happy New Year to you all. I hope you and your loved ones enjoy a prosperous and rewarding 2020. Charlotte 16 587-888-3100 Yes In early October, session resumed early so that we can continue our important work of creating jobs and build- Denis 16 403-879-8778 No ing pipelines. I would like to give you an update as to the government’s progress on these two important initiatives. Dola 15 587-888-1247 Yes Job Creation In October, Statistics Canada showed that over 20,000 Gillian 20 403-616-4085 No private sector jobs were added to the Alberta economy. As well, in early December, CNRL, one of the largest Izzy 19 403-201-2957 Yes independent crude oil and natural gas producers in the world, announced 1,000 new full-time jobs that they in- Jorja 14 587-577-9074 Yes dicated was a direct result of reduced corporate income tax rates. They also announced an increase of $250 mil- Julia 15 587-215-1527 Yes lion in spending and 60 new drilling locations. Pipelines Kashish 19 403-909-6936 No I have heard from many of my constituents about the importance of pipelines and on December 3, 2019, we Kosar 20 403-402-4298 No heard very positive news that construction has finally begun on the Kinder Morgan, Trans Mountain Pipeline. Lauren 14 403-863-7314 Yes The pipeline will triple Trans Mountain’s flow of crude to 890,000 barrels per day. The pipeline is scheduled to be Madison 16 403-830-9326 Yes completed in the second half of 2022. Fair Deal for Alberta Nikolay 19 403-244-4776 Yes As you may know, in early November, Premier Jason Kenney announced the creation of a Fair Deal Panel Sarai 20 403-861-8635 No to advance Alberta’s issues and autonomy. The Panel held a number of townhalls in December to hear from Sophie 32 403-990-8311 Yes Albertans directly on ideas that will give us a bigger voice within the federation. I know that many of you Calling All BABYSITTERS are frustrated with the federal government and the barri- ers they have put on our prosperity. I strongly support Enroll free at mybabysitter.ca and choose the Calgary communities greater autonomy for Alberta and a stronger Alberta you would like to babysit in. within Canada. Calling All PARENTS Together we can build a stronger and more prosperous Visit mybabysitter.ca and find available babysitters in and around Alberta, so that we can continue to be a generous society. your community. Disclaimer: We recommend for your own peace of mind that references be checked when choosing your babysitter. This babysitter list is provided as a service to the community and is governed by the terms & conditions outlined at mybabysitter.ca.

WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 3 1 Councillor, Ward 6 MP Calgary Signal Hill Ron Liepert Jeff Davison #2216, 8561 8A Avenue SW Bookings: Kathy Morgan, Executive Assistant [email protected]; Constituency Concerns: Calgary, Alberta T3H 0V5 Suzy Trottier, Constituency Liaison caward6@ 403-292-6666 403-292-6670 calgary.ca 403-268-1035; Development Permit [email protected] Information: Frano Cavar, Communications and Policy Liaison [email protected] 403-268-1380 Battalion Park On November 11th each year, several thousand Calgar- Happy New Year Ward 6! The Ward 6 team is working ians gather for Remembrance Day ceremonies at Battal- hard to continue to advocate for you and all of Calgary ion Park. The history of the park is outlined for everyone in 2020. in attendance, however for those not having the oppor- A New Year’s resolution to support Calgary tunity to attend an event at the park, or is new to our businesses and buy local city, I wanted to explain the significance of the 16,000 Calgarians love local businesses and The City of Calgary whitewashed stones arranged on the side of Signal Hill. is helping these businesses get the word out to Cal- The Canadian Militia leased the land in the summer of garians to buy local. If you’re a Calgary business, show 1914 from the Sarcee Indian Reserve to establish a train- your roots with pride and use tools and resources from ing site for 45,000 military personnel assigned to fight in The City’s marketing toolkit to promote your local busi- World War 1. This was the largest training establishment ness; just visit calgary.ca/buylocal. If you’re a proud in Canada during war time with 30 various units from Calgarian, support Calgary’s comeback and spread the different parts of Alberta. The various Battalions trained word about your favourite local businesses and post to at the Sarcee camp from December 1915 to October #BuyLocalYYC. 1916 and then were assigned to war regions to fight Watch for your 2020 Property Assessment Notice WW1. As part of their training, soldiers hauled in sacks Assessment notices are now available. The City of Cal- by hand, stones from the and carried them gary mailed the notices Jan.2, 2020 and they are also over two kilometres to the site of the camp creating the available online. The information contained in these as- battalion numerals representing their units. sessment notices will be used to prepare the 2020 prop- The stones forming the numerals 137, 151 and 51 are erty tax bills. You can check, review and compare your in a cluster that were moved from the original position notice online. Plus, sign up for eNotices. because of erosion and development, but 113 is a bit Customer Review Period (Jan. 2 - March 10, 2020) further away, undisturbed, in its original location. If you have any questions about your property assess- Battalion Park officially opened in November 1991 com- ment, contact Assessment at 403-268-2888 during the memorating the many military personnel that trained there. Customer Review Period on now until March 10, 2020. On Remembrance Day 2019, it was my honor and privi- Our website can help lege, once again, as your representative in Parliament, to place a wreath at Battalion Park. It is important to rec- Visit calgary.ca/assessment to get more information, ognize the contributions that our soldiers have made to access Assessment Search, and sign up for paperless preserve the freedom that we enjoy and those serving eNotices. By logging into Assessment Search, you can in Canada’s Armed Forces today. To do so at this site, a review your assessment, compare it to other similar proud piece of history in Calgary Signal Hill, and share properties and more. the experience with so many Calgarians is always one of Calgary Awards: Nominations opening soon! the highlights of my year as your representative. Do you know a Calgarian who has made an import- As we go forward into 2020, I know there are many is- ant contribution to our city or community? Consider sues that concern Albertans today, but we also need to nominating them for a Calgary Award! The Calgary recognize how fortunate we are due to the sacrifices Awards Program launches on January 15, 2020. For made by others. categories and nomination details, visit calgary.ca/ calgaryawards. Happy New Year!

32 JANUARY 2020 I Call 403-720-0762 for advertising opportunities For business classified ad rates call Great News Media at 403-720-0762 or [email protected]

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CERTIFIED MASTER ELECTRICIAN: Terry Raabis, 9 7 4 2 8 1 3 5 6 RME/CME, CQT – Big Sky Ventures. Call: 587-228-9371 or e-mail: [email protected]. Home renos, re-wiring, 1 6 2 5 3 9 4 8 7 troubleshooting, hot tub connections, smoke and 6 9 3 8 7 4 2 1 5 carbon monoxide detectors, breaker panel upgrades, and much more! Fully licensed and insured, seniors’ 8 4 5 1 9 2 7 6 3 discount, customer satisfaction guaranteed. 24-hour emergency service. 2 1 7 6 5 3 8 9 4

WEST SPRINGS • COUGAR RIDGE I JANUARY 2020 3 3

R E A S O N # 2 David sells for more. $5902 Based on an average sale price of $922,111, David’s homes sell for $5902 more. David’s homes sell at 97.73% of list price on average, vs the rest of market at 97.09%.*

Another reason why your neighbours choose David to sell their home.

403 869 7971 | [email protected] | davidpellettier.ca RE/MAX Real Estate (Central)

*MLS DATA - CALENDARS 2015-2018 INCLUSIVE. DETACHED HOMES IN THE UPPER WESTSIDE - THE COMBINED COMMUNITIES OF WEST SPRINGS, ASPEN WOODS, SPRINGBANK HILL & DISCOVERY RIDGE. NOT INTENDED TO SOLICIT CLIENTS CURRENTLY UNDER CONTRACT.