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vne 7t Sre.Te eve The Street. 79th & Avenue vr 5 pol atne the attended people 150 Over rmae col ie t 112th at site School Cromdale eray t ifrain meet information 8th February elhs ed f rmr care, primary of head Health’s t em ti i a at accompli,” fait a is this seems It Marianne Stewart, Capital Capital Stewart, Marianne you’reit.”putting responded saying they followed a “Here.Here.”with responded us rushing “You’re resident. the plans. the they’dof heardfirst the was this ses venting a into turned ning care primary new the about ing in rvle aon te loss the around revolved tions we that something through where against we’re project; the By Karen MykietkaKarenBy frustrations. Many residents said residents Many frustrations. od cmlx ht ae the faces that complex condo former the for slated centre crowd, a resident from the neigh officials City land. the chase of refusal…It’s disappointing the fields. soccer and space green of let us down by giving up its right consultation. lic City the that reiterating kept have to live with.”audience live The to have possibility,about hear reality.not miffed little a I’m this. of heard bouring condo City stated, “The prln assmn ad pub and assessment parkland a pur to Health Capital allowed to opposed not We’re that. at in s eiet epesd their expressed residents as sion sale is a done deal.”done a is sale included that process six-month Eastwood an Buhler, Tess says we’ve time first the “It’s site, I huh I a cmn to coming was I thought “I This didn’t appease the the appease didn’t This ya icn lvs n the in lives Vincent Kyla ay omns n ques and comments Many Y T I C A P A C G N I S A E R C N I . N O I T A C I N U M M O C G N I G A R U O C N E . Y T I N U M M O C G N I D L I U B RATRAT Luke-WarmForThe Reception ------CREEKCREEK PRESPRES Capital Health plans to have the have to plans Health Capital urnl, - pol fo our from people 4-5 Currently, $350,000, and they will be build Eastwood Public Health Centre Health Public Eastwood iig elh dcto, access education, health viding Health bought the site for for site the bought Health ih xedd or fr urgent for hours extended with ing a primary health care centre care health primary a ing ed lk css fvr, stitches, fevers, casts, like needs centre walk-in a have will it Centre, Health East North the specialty physicians, family to 2008. in open centre new clinics, mental health counseling, n t o elc te inadequate the replace to it on located at 7919-118 Avenue. Avenue. 7919-118 at located home care and urgent care. Like care. urgent and care home e “n-tp hp fr the for shop” “one-stop a be area go to the U of A, Royal Alex pro consumer health average udn lns, ce ad pains. and aches illness, sudden Central McDougall, Delton, Downtown, Eastwood, Elmwood Park,ElmwoodDowntown,Eastwood, Delton, Central McDougall, New Health Centre Health New Highlands, McCauley,Highlands, Newton,Montrose,Parkdale-Cromdale, h cnr i spoe to supposed is centre The u te at s ht Capital that is fact the But Communities served: Alberta Avenue, Bellevue, Boyle Street,Avenue,BoyleAlberta Bellevue, served: Communities Riverdale, Rossdale, Spruce Avenue,Spruce Riverdale,Rossdale, Park Virgina CROMDALE 60,000 residents, 7300 of them seniors them of 7300 residents, 60,000 25 schools with 8700 students 8700 with schools 25 Eastwood HealthCareEastwood
SCHOOL 670 births/year 670
SITE - - h nw ete il rvd a provide will centre new The aine twr peetd a presented Stewart Marianne O ls ae ct/ev addic acute/serve are list NOT hs srie aalbe n the in available services these trust Capital Health to not make tions treatment, needle exchange, the on services Othercentre. the seri treat not will tre. centre The ehdn cii ad forensic and clinic methadone for them. for uue “hr i a itr of history a is “There future. lsr mr cnein option convenient more closer, commitments being broken broken being commitments or North East for care every hour. or traumas, so there will be very very be will there so traumas, or attacks heart like problems ous long list of things that will NOTwill that things of list long little if any ambulance traffic to traffic ambulance any if little psychiatry. be at the new primary care cen care primary new the at be by Stewart’sby “not” don’tthey list; Residents were not appeased In her presentation, presentation, her In - - - soito si, Tee s a is “There said, Association hrfr, eiet demanded residents Therefore, Community League. Community Basualdo of the Alberta Avenue Alberta the of Basualdo vide your input. Web: www.capWeb: input. your vide who residents were there versy, h 4126 Eal newcen Email: 401.2668 Ph: Health “Capital stated, Parkdale eray 7h hr residents where 27th February con will residents Hopefully, I’dexcited.” very be area the in mom young a was I Norwood Neighbourhood Neighbourhood Norwood ee be o hr ter vision their share to able were resident who describes herself as herself describes who resident [email protected] italhealth.ca/newhealthcentre pro or information more get to Health Capital contact or issues and ideas their make to tinue neighbourhood. their in leagues. community the to that Capital Health make this an public.”the to accountable not is it and entity democratic a not is o h cmuiy” ad Cris said community,” the to for this new Primary Care Centre centre. ER,” the clog to hate I centre. opinions known. And hopefully, And known. opinions desire and need their expressed writing in commitment official erig rm h community.” the from learning elh ete bt e pn to open be but centre, health ra ne fr mr dynamic more a for need great n ipt n h dsg o the of design the on input and “If said user, health extensive an someone will really be listening. be really will someone Patsy.named lady a said “My family will be using the using be will family “My Watch for updates in future in updates Watchfor A design workshop was held was workshop design A John Malhouse from from Malhouse John Darcy Flemming of the the of Flemming Darcy contro the all Despite oe utr a og term long a Hunter, Hope
SS NEW MARCH 2006 MARCH
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RAT CREEK PRESS ASSOCIATION EDITORIAL
Volume 8 . Issue 2 There Is No Excuse March 2006 By Dawn Freeman Walking is free and some of the time, make extra and freeze spiritual well being. Be kind MANAGING EDITOR Karen Mykietka the best exercise around. It doesn’t some for those days when you’re to yourself as well as to others. EDITOR Dawn Freeman I asked my 5-year-old daugh- need special shoes. It is low-impact running late. Or if you have the Get lots of hugs and give them GRAPHIC DESIGN Michelle Hayduk ter the other day what makes a so just about everyone can do it, extra money and freezer space, go too. Talk and listen to friends ADVERTISING SALES Joy Dyck person healthy. Here’s what she and at the speed they choose to Cooks Corner (see Business and family and find time to be DISTRIBUTION Coordinator Needed replied. “Eat good food, but not – or that chooses them! (And if Briefs on page 7) to make and together. Find time for yourself ACCOUNTING Arthur Dyck too much candy. Play every day you need something to do while take home pre-made meals. As and use it for yourself (not for
BOARD MEMBERS in the sunshine or the snow. And walking, become a Rat Creek for candy and other sweet treats? doing chores!)*. Figure out what Kathleen Quinn, PAAFE get lots of hugs.” I think she has Press deliverer for your block!) Well, my theory is, if it’s not in will make you happy then find Peter Rausch, AABA it in a nutshell. And really when Make the conscious choice to your house, you can’t eat it. But the courage to do it. Bring bal- Jill Oliver, Alberta Avenue health and wellness is boiled walk instead of taking the car to it’s okay to have a sweet treat (or ance to your life. Margaret Guthrie, Norwood down to its most basic level, those close places. Or choose to a salty one), as long as you stop Follow the simple advice of Verna Stainthorp, Spruce Avenue shouldn’t it be that simple? walk to the next bus stop, or the after just one or two. a 5-year-old. She seems to know Cheryl Walker, Parkdale Do we really need expensive next, before hopping on. If you want some of those what she’s talking about. Cath Jackel, Alberta Avenue gym equipment or gym member- Eating good food isn’t as tips and techniques suggested by More board members welcome. ships to be healthy and well? Of hard as it sometimes seems to be. the experts, go to the library. *Note from the Managing
ADDRESS EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE TO: course it can be convenient to do And it is worth the effort, not just They have a fabulous selection Editor: This is great advice from Box 39024 RPO Norwood, Edmonton, a workout in your home. Being for us, but to teach our children of books and DVDs/videos in Dawn but if she and I followed Alberta T5B 4T8 CALL: 780.479.6285 able to go to a rec centre for a healthy eating habits too. So stock nutrition and cooking, diet and it you wouldn’t have this paper in EMAIL: [email protected] swim, walk or run on a cold day up on fresh fruits and vegetables, exercise. Walk to the library when your mailbox every month! Dawn is handy. Books and DVDs can pastas and rice, beans, lentils and you go to pick up your books! has taken on a short term paying WEB SITE www.ratcreek.org have some great tips and tech- meat and resolve to bring less The internet is another source job and needs to reduce her volun- niques in them too. And if you packaged food home from the of information, and if you don’t teer hours on the paper. I already OUR MISSION The mission of the have a fitness buddy, working store. Make your own macaroni have access at home the library volunteer up to 80 hours an issue, Rat Creek Press Association is to high- light community news, activities, and out is all the more enjoyable. But and cheese, make your own spa- has that too. so we need new volunteers to pick recreational opportunities as well as don’t use the lack of these as an ghetti sauce – it doesn’t take that Last but definitely not least, up the slack. Call and see how you local residents and businesses to support excuse not to be fit and healthy. much longer. And if you have don’t forget your emotional and could help. the growth of a strong, vibrant, well- connected community.
OUR GOALS To Build Community, Encourage Communication and Got Something To Say About The Police? Increase Capacity. It is important that citizens pro- Complaints will be reviewed human and sometimes make mis- For more information on police BOO HOO MICHELLE IS LEAVING US vide feedback to the police – both by the Staff Sergeant in Internal takes or act in ways that citizens compliments or concerns go to: Our wonderful designer cannot continue positive and negative. Give appre- Affairs and assigned to an inves- do not understand or do not like. www.police.edmonton.ca due to a repetitive strain injury. She has ciation, praise and compliments tigator. Your concern may be In some cases, these actions are a done a tremendous job giving the paper when they are due. And when resolved through the intervention direct result of their training, an INTERNAL AFFAIRS INTAKE INVESTIGATIONS SECTION a professional look and designing us a you encounter unprofessional of the officer’s supervisor or an approved police service policy, or Ph: 421.2676 very snazzy header. We are hoping she’ll behavior, poor service or have a are sanctioned by law. put some of her creative energy into concern send in a complaint. Rat Creek Press has started CHIEF OF POLICE writing and photography! It is important that All officers wear a tag with a new regular column on police Police Headquarters Leanne McBean will be taking over as citizens provide feedback their name and badge number. issues (see Law and Order: On 9620-103A Avenue our designer. to the police. Edmonton , AB T5H 0H7 Take it down or if you’re on the Patrol on page 13). Copy us on phone ask for it. If you don’t your compliments or complaints EDMONTON POLICE COMMISSION UPCOMING ISSUES know the officer’s name or badge Internal Affairs Section inves- relating to police. It would be Suite 171 , 10235-101 Street number, state the date, time and tigator who may take corrective great to publicly recognize some Edmonton AB T5J 3E9 situation involved. Efforts will or educational action with the of the great officers that work in www.edmontonpolicecommission. APRIL Around the House com MAY Education & Learning be made to identify the officer officer. Remember - Police offi- our area, and we’ll do our best to Ph: 414.7510 Fax: 414.7511 JUNE Celebrating Culture involved. cers and our EPS employees are follow up on common concerns.
Boy oh Boyd! A Police Chief listening to the Community By Karen Mykietka traffic safety; taser use; unprofes- added that the Chief should visit out getting to the point; or just Edmonton Police Service. Boyd sional and uncaring responses by when there’s a football game or wanted to vent. He appeared said the events are an invaluable Over 200 people attended the police; brutality; rampant petty during something like K-days. caring and concerned over each tool to get to know the residents chief of police’s last town hall crime and disorderly conduct. She also invited him to train new individual’s story and made and the problems within com- meeting on February 22nd at When Norm Aldi, president recruits in our area. many promises to “look into it” munities. Victoria School. Line-ups at the of Eastwood Community League, Another commitment or “explore the issue further”. Chief Boyd’s talk so far has microphones started before Chief got to the microphone, he refer- was made after Rick Guthrie, Michael Boyd was barely been encouraging and hope- Michael Boyd even finished his enced something Boyd said ear- a Community Action Project sworn into office as Chief of ful, but as Boyd said himself at brief opening remarks. While the lier in the evening: “Sometimes (CAP) representative, asked that Police when he instituted his the first town hall meeting in individuals who had the oppor- police priorities are not the same the chief meet with local resi- “100-day plan” which is up on the Southwest, “Talk is cheap. tunity to speak shared about as community priorities.” Aldi’s dents. “With the track record April 18th. The plan is to take Actions speak louder than words.” concerns and frustrations with question to Boyd was: “Will you of collaboration that you have 100 days to review how service While we can’t expect change the Edmonton Police Service, come visit us and hear our con- outlined here this evening, I will is working, and then decide on overnight, we certainly will the overwhelming majority of cerns?” The Chief replied, “What be ecstatic to meet with you changes that need to be made. be keeping a close eye on the them also welcomed Chief Boyd about doing a walk-a-bout?” It to continue that collaboration,” “We will examine everything we Edmonton Police Service and to Edmonton and thanked him was suggested that for a more responded Boyd. do operationally and adminis- Chief Michael Boyd. And we for taking the time to come to realistic effect the Chief come in Boyd listened to each speak- tratively,” says Boyd. The most will hold him accountable for the community and talk and plainclothes not a uniform. er attentively even though some ingenious part of Boyd’s plan his words. If Boyd succeeds in listen to residents. Another local commu- individuals brought forth issues was to hold five townhall-style implementing even half of his Concerns raised included nity league president, Victoria outside the scope and mandate meetings where the public promises, we’re in for some posi- allocation of police resources; Hemming of Parkdale-Cromdale, of the police; rambled on with- could share their views on the tive change.
RAT CREEK PRESS MARCH 2006 NEWS AND VIEWS Revitalizing St. Gerard School By Monique Nutter enrolment? Parents reported lov- safety issues. “Drug and prosti- Razzolini couldn’t seem to put a North Central neighbourhoods ing their school community, its tution problems are coming this finger on it, although he admit- better hope so, and perhaps even On Tuesday, January 31, 2006, smallness, feeling like part of an way from 118th and it’s going ted “Ward 3 has been hit hard.” join in working to make it so. Principal Dan Friedt opened extended family, having a great to keep going,” said one woman In fact, Razzolini’s predecessor, For as Principal Friedt points the meeting at St. Gerard’s ele- daycare and out-of-school care who spoke of how she and her Ron Patsula resigned his city out, “Schools describe own- mentary school with a purpose program on-site, having great neighbour had been trying to get centre seat on the board in 2001 ership in an area. Our most statement and a prayer. The teachers, good discipline, and rid of a drug dealer all summer. purpose of the meeting was to having diversity within the stu- “The police won’t help, we have discover the reasons for declin- dent and parent body. Great tra- him on video tape, and they ing enrolment and gather input dition was also highlighted with still don’t care.” She wondered from parents about how to make some current students being the out loud about the possibility of the school succeed. At 114 stu- third generation in their families schools coming together, clean- dents, the school has only three to attend St. Gerard’s. ing up the neighbourhood, and combined grade classrooms at So why is enrolment on the making it more attractive for this point. A total of about wane? The chair of the parent young families. 50 people attended, a third of board, Assunta Runco, attributes At the end of the meeting, a who were school board trustees, the decline to three things: 1) facilitator got up and identified school board administrators, and Low visibility—St. Gerard’s is three theme areas: operational staff at St. Gerard’s. located on 124 Avenue and 85 issues, marketing, and programs. Edmonton Catholic Schools Street, adjacent to the sound bar- Unfortunately, they seemed to Rather than going in and deciding to close a school (ECS) has a new process for rier wall on the Yellowhead free- have missed the fourth and per- in a few short months, Edmonton Catholic Schools is dealing with threats to a school’s way so there is no through traf- haps most crucial area. now taking a more proactive approach. viability. Many of us in the com- fic; 2) Demographics—Delton Any school’s success is inti- munity remember the closure of is a more mature neighbour- mately connected to its neigh- St. Patrick’s school in 2002. It hood, and Lori Nagy points out bourhood’s success. One parent, seems the angry response from that forecasts have Edmonton’s who identified herself only as parents, aided in their opposition birth rate declining; and 3) Laura, stated that every school to the closure by Community Transience—people move in and will say they have a family feel, Action Project, has reaped some out of the neighbourhood, and excellent teachers, and excellent belated effects. Rather than in and out of the school at a programs—these are not the real going in and deciding to close rapid rate. issues. The real issue is that we a school in a few short months, Friedt, citing a study that feel safe, “Getting to know the ECS is now taking a more pro- ranked a number of St. Gerard’s community is the key. It’s all active approach. According to kindergarteners as starting off about the people.” trustee Mark Razzolini, “No below the city average, talked of Since the turn of the cen- one is talking closure. There how “per student funding leaves tury, only a few short years ago, is no time frame on this pro- us struggling just to cover the many schools have closed in claiming “there was a ‘hidden precious asset, our children, go cess. Numbers have dipped, basics. We’re way beyond the nearby neighbourhoods—Alex agenda’…which was the quest there. A school closes, a commu- we are here to see what we can basics.” His view is that given Taylor, St. Patrick’s, Sacred for capital funds for the con- nity is dying.” “North Central do to reverse the trend.” Lori extra funding to cover the costs Heart, Eastwood’s and John A. struction of new schools, at the Edmonton isn’t dying,” say many, Nagy of ECS, points out that St. of a literacy coordinator and a McDougall’s Jr. High programs, expense of schools in older areas “we’re revitalizing. Just look at Bernadette’s entered this process social worker, St. Gerard’s could and St. Basil’s English elemen- of the city” (Western Catholic 118th Avenue.” However, will last year, and have managed to create a winning formula where tary program. When asked what Reporter, March 12, 2001). revitalization be possible without keep their doors open so far. “kids would get up in the morn- he thought was going on with St. Gerard’s is not on the our schools? If you would like Be that as it may, it is clear ing and run to school.” so many schools, Catholic and verge of closing, insist parent to help St. Gerard’s in its efforts that St. Gerard’s is in trouble. Parents in the room also Public, closing over the past few leaders. It is on the verge of to increase enrollment, call the What is causing the declining talked about neighbourhood years in our neighbourhoods, turning around. All of us in school at 474.5208.
Who is Michael Boyd? Quotes from Michael Boyd: By Karen Mykietka I was suitably impressed by puter program to help with case disorder and victimization. He’s CUSTOMER SERVICE his actions to date, including his management. He specialized in dealt with Pubic Safety and “I believe it’s important for Well I hope by now you all know address to the community, his police professionalism, ethics Emergency Preparedness. He’s police officers to respond with that Michael Boyd is our new comments to the media and his and race relations and along with chaired national committees. an empathetic and sympa- Chief of Police. performance at the town hall a team designed and delivered He championed new legislation thetic response, but a response Anyone who attended meetings. Then, I read his two affective and attitudinal training and a national training program as well that sends the positive a town hall meeting saw first- and half page biography – wow! for police officers (boy, I hope on drug impaired driving. He’s message to our citizens hand that Chief Boyd is a very Very impressive. he implements some of this with a graduate of the F.B.I. National that we care.” skilled politician. Boyd is an Michael Boyd joined the our police service!). While in Academy Training and has a articulate public speaker who Toronto Police Service as a charge of eight downtown uni- certificate in Criminal Justice SOCIAL DISORDER can compose coherent answers Cadet at the age of 17 and went form divisions in Toronto, he Education. “…public drinking or on the fly; never once putting on to serve 35 years with them. created and introduced Strategic In March 2004, he retired. prostitution, cat calling or his foot in his mouth or con- The majority of his career was Crime Management, a model A year later, he came out of sexual harassment, graffiti tradicting himself. He comes spent in investigative branches. of intelligence-led policing that retirement to become Toronto’s or vandalism. Nothing is too across as very attentive, con- He acted as a consultant to both integrated crime prevention, law Interim Police Chief during a small for our attention.” cerned and approachable. The Canadian and American law enforcement and problem solv- time of transition. Now Michael Chief acknowledged when he enforcement on investigations ing within a community polic- Boyd has a three year contract GANGS didn’t know something. And he and he has lectured extensively ing strategy (we need some of as Chief of Police in Edmonton. “We are going to shared the spotlight with other nationally and internationally. that too!). Welcome Chief Boyd, so much aggressively go after the gang senior officers in the Downtown Boyd is a forward thinker Are you wowed yet? Well for retirement! Read Chief issue. We are not going to let Division, passing them the and innovator. He developed there’s still more. Boyd has col- Boyd’s address to the communi- them run our city. We’re microphone when they could and enhanced investigative tech- laborative initiatives and result- ty and biography at www.police. taking our city back.” better answer a question. niques and even designed a com- ing in the reduction of crime, edmonton.ab.ca RAT CREEK PRESS MARCH 2006 NEIGHBOURHOOD VOICE Coffee Dream Come True By Karen Mykietka flavours including a fair trade quent business suggestions for organic selection. If you’re not the area that came out in the Plush suede love seats. Wood into coffee, you can have tea, hot Urban Village research and the and leather arm chairs. An elec- chocolate, juice or pop. Fresh Avenue Initiative was the need tric fireplace. Bright, cheery wall baked muffins, cookies and other for a coffee shop. While some with photos. Friends having goodies will also be available. If people specifically want a chain conversation over coffee. Sound you need something a little more like Second Cup or Tim Hortons, like someone’s living room? Or substantial, the menu includes others simply want good coffee maybe you wish it described your light lunch fare such as soup and and ambience. living room. Well, it’s available sandwiches. As I sat there with my friends, for you to enjoy; it’s a new coffee These two successful entre- I asked what they thought. “It’s house on the Avenue – Edibles preneurs did their research first. somewhere close to come with Caffeine on 118. “We visited every coffee shop in character and ambience,” says The coffee house may be new Edmonton to find all the best Dawn Freeman. For this reason, but the owners aren’t. Brenda elements of a coffee shop,” says I’m sure Caffeine on 118 will Dutton and Bjorn Cochran oper- Dutton. And what do you need soon be a favourite among local ate Absolutely Edibles catering besides great coffee? Cozy com- residents. But we may have to and café. They ran out of space at fortable seating and ambience. keep it a local secret; there is only their 10406-118 Avenue location, Dutton remarks, “People talk seating for thirteen! so last summer they moved their and interact differently when sit- Caffeine on 118 will be commercial kitchen to 9567-118 ting in comfortable chairs than open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm Avenue. Until now, they used the when they sit in plastic chairs Monday to Friday and 11:00 am storefront as a take out/deli, but across a table from one another.” to 4:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. Brenda convinced her partner to While there are a number of Dutton says, “We’ll look at addi- take the plunge into a third busi- places in the area to grab a coffee tional hours once we have a better ness – a coffee house. and a bite to eat (as Peter Rausch idea of what people want.” Well, At Caffeine on 118 you points out in his column on page I for one want evening hours. will find cappuccinos, expressos, 6), residents still feel something Join me in pestering Brenda to steamers, and a variety of coffee is missing. One of the most fre- add at least one evening!
,K.PIIVUZ*P[`*V\UJPSSVY Do We Really Count? *HYPUNMVY*VTT\UP[PLZ Your article on the “Price of rehabilitation, which is, “taking Poverty” [February issue] hit into account the condition of home no doubt with many pavement, concrete, underground LKNPIIVUZ'LKTVU[VUJH of the residents of east-central utilities and available AMIP fund- *P[`VM,KTVU[VUUK-SVVY*P[`/HSS Edmonton, but it is only one facet ing.” They will not provide spe- :PY>PUZ[VU*O\YJOPSS:X\HYL of the price we pay for not living cific reasons why we don’t qualify. ,KTVU[VU();19 in the more upscale and newer The AMIP funding is the tax ^^^LKTVU[VUJH neighbourhoods of the city. money the province is turning While the city has been grow- over to the city to address deferred ing by leaps and bounds, our infrastructure rehabilitation. community has been passed over Our city council can find ES¸`SZ]]YW\U[cQVPSbbS` except for privilege of accommo- funds for Sir Winston Churchill dating Rexall Place, Northlands Square, the Shaw Conference and Commonwealth Stadium, Centre, over-passes, Recreation BVO\Yg]c and the traffic and noise that goes Centres and LRT expansion; why with them. Our community has can’t they can find a means to pro- been neglected in every other way, vide improvements to our neigh- while much newer neighbour- bourhoods, such as decent side- hoods are the beneficiaries of re- walks and roads? If you feel that paved roads, new sidewalks, bike our neighbourhoods should not paths and parkland. While we have to wait another five years, at should be grateful that the long least, for this badly needed work, overdue rehabilitation of 118th then you should write, call, or e- /bBVS;SRWQW\SAV]^^SeS¸`SUWdW\U VSOZbVQO`SaSZSQbW]\7b¸aOZZ^O`b]T]c` Avenue is finally being addressed, mail Mayor Mandel, Councilors g]c`TOd]c`WbS^VO`[OQgOeV]ZS RSRWQObW]\b]^S`a]\OZZgY\]eg]cO\R none of our many neighbour- Hayter and Krushell and the \SeZ]]Y=c``SQS\b`S\]dObW]\a VSZ^g]ceWbVg]c`W\RWdWRcOZVSOZbVQO`S hoods, Alberta Avenue, Delton, Transportation Department. VOdSS\VO\QSR]c`OZ`SORg^`][^b \SSRa@S[S[PS`eVS\Wb[ObbS`a[]ab Eastwood, Elmwood Park, Spruce Mayor Mandel, 496.8100 or ste- ^`SaQ`W^bW]\aS`dWQSO\RSf^O\RSR]c` Wb¸aBVS;SRWQW\SAV]^^S Avenue and Westwood will be [email protected] rehabilitated for at least five years Councilor Hayter, 496.8128 or IZkfbg]^k;anb%;'L\'IaZkf according to the city – the only [email protected] IaZkfZ\blm(Hpg^k exception being Parkdale. Councilor Krushell, 496.8136 or 1***&**1:o^gn^ "%% ' Not that the funds aren’t [email protected] >]fhgmhg%:; available, because they are. Of the Transportation Department, Ahnkl3F&?2Z'f&/i'f'uLZm2Z'f'&+i'f' 20 neighbourhoods being given 496.4498 or Paul.Szczepanski@ a facelift, the majority of them edmonton.ca A>317/:=443@ were built up long after ours in Or write to The City of the 1950’s and 1960’s. In some Edmonton at 1 Sir Winston /ZZ >`]RcQba cases several neighbourhoods in Churchill Square T5J 2R7 #=44 one community are to be reha- =TTS`Sf^W`Sa4SP`cO`gOffer expires March 30,& 2006 $ bilitated. According to the city Peter Lefaivre we don’t meet their criteria for Delton Resident
RAT CREEK PRESS MARCH 2006 ADVERTORIAL Which of These Costly Home- seller Mistakes Will You Make When You Sell Your 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.
Volunteers 20% OFF make Rat Creek Celebrating 25 Years Each Tax Return a Success. Prepared by Feb. 28 Getting Rat Creek 2 for 1 to over 8,000 Pay for 1 return & get 2nd return mailboxes BIG RED of equal or lesser value FREE New Clients Only (with coupon) takes a lot of time INCOME TAX & ACCOUNTING and energy and it 25% OFF could 11107 - 95 Street Each Business Return not be done 471-6251 (with an invoice over $100.00) without the $100 OFF hard work of our Each Corporate Return volunteers. Dave Patterson, Manager Prepared by Dec. 31 With coupon (bring booklet) Good Accounts Don’t Cost You Money! They Save You Money! Call: 479.6285
PET CORNER
FEATUREDFEATURED PETSPETS
This is Pocket and Rocket. Some of you may recognize them because their home is very public; they have spent their lives, over ten years, at the Wee Book Inn on 118 Avenue. These two long- haired Himalayan cats are brothers. It’s pretty hard for a stranger to tell them apart, but Curt, the manager for the past year, can identify them at a glance. He says Rocket is the bigger of the two. Feel free to visit their home and browse their bookshelves. You may find them weaving in and out amongst the many racks or watching the Avenue through the window. They’ll let you give them a pat or a scratch; however, they are not too interested in being handled. If you do pet the fur balls, be prepared to take a good chunk of them home with you!
RAT CREEK PRESS MARCH 2006 LOCAL BUSINESS Business on the Avenue By Peter Rausch and Pizza, and New York by Renato’s, Boston Pizza, Executive Director, AABA Steak & Pizza are all great El Rancho, Coliseum Steak places to have a cup at, and and Pizza or Ernest’s Fine At a recent meeting for the many of these have breakfast Dining and try their coffee Avenue Initiative someone or lunch specials to go with and evening treats. commented that there are no it. Besides the above places to go for coffee on the Or you could stop by local businesses, we do Avenue. I thought about it for one of our bakeries - Handy have a national chain - Sir a while and, granted, there Bakery or Popular Bakery. Doughnuts - if you have the are no Tim’s, Starbucks or Besides great baked treats need for a franchise coffee Second Cup, but we do have they both offer coffee and a fix. It is unique since it is a a number of places where seating area and they are a national chain but also has a you can grab a cup of joe. great place to people-watch. liquor license. There are over a dozen Some more good news is These are our local busi- local businesses to grab a that the owners of Absolutely nesses and they appreciate coffee and a bite at along the Edibles opened up a cof- your business and support. Avenue. They have been serv- fee house in mid-February at So be sure to drop into one ing local customers for a long their deli location at 9567- and try their wares – you will time and are always welcom- 118 Avenue. I’ll put up their be pleasantly surprised! ing new ones. place against any coffee house Keep It Simple, Tippy’s, in Edmonton for great coffee, Roma Bistro, Maria’s Place, food and ambiance. Alberta Avenue Business Café Pardal, Malaysia Into more of an evening Association Ph: 471.2602 Kitchen, Homemade Steak coffee and dessert? Well, stop E-mail: [email protected]
Play or Work BINGO at Alberta Avenue 9210-118 Avenue, 477-2773
Every Wednesday, Thursday & Friday starting at 6:10 pm Additional late night bingo on Fridays starting at 10:20 pm Volunteers needed!! It’s easy work in a quiet & smoke-free environment. Come out and support your community.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Polar Bear Health & Water By Cindy Burgess quite entrepreneurial, he was also mainstays of the business are the somewhat of a visionary with a bottled water and distiller prod- On your way down Alberta keen interest in the benefits of ucts and Polar Bear is the only Avenue, you’ve probably noticed natural foods and pure, chemi- store to offer a bottle sterilizing the distinctive mural over one cal free water. In the late forties, facility where you can sanitize of the shops on the north side he was offering natural health your plastic bottles before refill- of 118 Avenue, a few blocks products such as salad cutters, ing them right in the store. You east of 95 Street; a painting of a juicers and water distillers to his can choose from distilled water polar bear standing on its hind customers at the beauty parlour. or reverse osmosis water as well legs. The sign marks Polar Bear This range of products proved as a variety of coolers, bottles, Health and Water and there’s to be quite popular and eventu- crocks, pumps, dispensers and more in store than you might ally Horinek was able to turn other accessories for your water. imagine. the beauty parlour entirely over Or, if you prefer to generate your Polar Bear Health and Water, to his wife Lillian to run, while own distilled water you can pur- FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CALL POLAR BEAR HEALTH & WATER AT 477.1328 a family run business found at he opened up a shop devoted chase a distiller from the store 9342-118 Avenue, is one of the entirely to water distillers and and use it in your own home. longest running establishments health products. It was the first The distillers are produced right on Alberta Avenue. In 1947, health food store in Edmonton. here in Alberta and the distiller Louis Horinek (Polar Bear’s As the years went by, the business plant is run by Horinek’s son, founder), purchased two adja- flourished and by 1974 it became while his daughters maintain cent lots on 93 Street and 118 necessary to expand the retail the store. This friendly family Avenue and put up a building, space. Lillian moved the beauty run business has enjoyed several creating a space suited for two parlour to a different building decades of success, serving cus- shops with a dividing wall in and Horinek removed the divid- tomers from all over Edmonton, the centre and a living space in ing wall between the two shops, and is a major supplier of water the back. Throughout the years, creating a bigger space devoted distillers internationally. the Horinek family ran a beauty entirely to health products. Dive on in to Polar Bear… parlour on one side of the build- Today, Polar Bear carries the water’s great and you’ll be ing and rented the other side out a variety of health care prod- pleasantly surprised by what to various businesses including a ucts including vitamins, natural else you might find! Store hours furniture store, a clothing store, foods and personal care prod- are from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and a real estate and insurance ucts and even has a lovely line Monday to Friday, and Saturday company. of greeting cards, candles, and from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm (Closed Louis Horinek was not only magnetic jewelry. One of the on Sundays). RAT CREEK PRESS MARCH 2006 LOCAL BUSINESS Business Briefs By Michael Lonergan of 12 entrees for two people is ingrown nails, bunions, heel THERAPIES WHOLISTIC SPA with additions by Karen Mykietka $135.00. If you would like them spurs and cysts. The Edmonton and Angie Klein to assemble the meals for you Foot Health Centre has been car- add $25.00. ing for Edmonton’s feet since ‘93. Since we have a feature on Health and Wellness this issue, DR. PAGLIUSO – DENTIST MITCHELL DRUGS we thought we would profile 111 Avenue & 102 Street 11826-103 Street some of our health-related busi- Ph: 477.3831 Ph: 477.5393 nesses. But first a correction from last issue: Café Pardal is a For the last 26 years Dr.Pagliuso Tony Woo invites you to come Portuguese café and bar that has has been practicing dentistry in and check out his store. He took been in the area for a number of Spruce Avenue. over ownership and operation of years. It is located at 11731-95 He grew up here, went to St. this long-standing pharmacy six Street and the business is for sale. Mikes and St. Joes schools, and months ago. It is a full service Café Cubita across the street at in fact, has known a lot of his pharmacy that also carries some THE MEDICINE SHOPPE 11732-95 Street is closed and patients since child hood. He home-care products of inter- the business is for sale. likes this area, but has seen a lot est to seniors and the disabled. of changes in the last 50 years Woo’s pharmacy offers compli- COOKS CORNER such as a shift from long-term ance aids, blister packaging, 9203-111 Avenue residents to a more transient personal prescription informa- Ph: 479.8175 population. But he says, “In tion and one-on-one counseling www.cooks-corner.ca the last few years, I have seen about the medications you take. a real turn around and I think Hours are Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Cooks Corner is a fully that things are getting better.” If Saturdays 10am-3pm; closed equipped, licensed commercial you don’t already have a dentist, Sundays and holidays. kitchen owned and operated by visit Dr. Pagliuso who cares very Jackie Ryan as a shared space much about the dental health THERAPIES WHOLISTIC SPA rented out by the day to several of his patients. See page 9 for 10120-118 Avenue THE MEDICINE SHOPPE offer prompt prescription service different businesses. Now Jackie information about dental care Ph: 477.8749 8111-118 Avenue and can even make medications has started an assembly kitchen. for seniors. Ph: 477.1192 from scratch into lollipops for With today’s busy schedules Are you feeling stressed out? kids and veterinary products for who has time to shop and chop? EDMONTON FOOT Then visit Frank Zalewski at Parminder Bhui says if you are your pets. The Medicine Shoppe Cooks Corner staff will do your HEALTH CENTRE your neighbourhood health looking for a pharmacy with has free delivery and home visits menu planning, shopping, chop- 12211B-97 Street and wellness centre who has that extra personal touch to and is a partner with the U of ping and clean-up. All you have Ph: 474.3338 been in the business of soothing come to his pharmacy. His store A in a study of hypertension. to do is come in for two hours your stress for five years. The carries a full range of health You can also have a screening and assemble 12 healthy and If you are experiencing the spa offers you massage therapy, care products and only health session for blood pressure, dia- delicious entrées. You leave with agony of ‘de-feet’, Dr. Jerome a herbalist, healing machines, care products unlike many of betes, smoking cessation, body packaged meals to put in your Tsang invites you to his centre relaxation mineral tubs and an the larger “box store” pharma- fat or diet.Parminder Bhui took freezer complete with cooking which deals with everything ion cleanse that removes toxins cies. Bhui says The Medicine over the pharmacy one year ago instructions. Call and pick a foot-related. They offer custom- from the body through the feet. Shoppe keeps up on all the lat- and the store has under gone session date and choose your made orthotics, shoes and boots Therapies Wholistic Spa can est advances in health care and extensive interior renovations. entrées. Cost for a session of 12 as well as ankle and foot braces. help with a variety of medical that he takes the time to discuss His storefront will also receive a entrees that serve four people The centre also offers on-site x- conditions and they are able to medications and health related facelift through the City’s façade is $250.00. Cost for a session rays and surgery for dealing with direct bill your health insurance. issues with his customers. They program.
FREE INCOME TAX PREP SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE DATES For lower income individuals and families at the PUBLIC www.epsb.ca Virginia Park Alberta Avenue Business Association (11770 – 95 Street) Call school if note date given 7325-109 Avenue Ph: 477.8152 March 16 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm Delton Elementary March 18 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 12126-89 Street Victoria School March 23 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm Ph: 477.8742 10210-108 Avenue March 25 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm Ph: 426.3010 Please bring your T-4, social insurance number, Eastwood Elementary March 9, 6-9pm Alberta Health Care Card, medical receipts, child care & Jr High receipts and your spouse as his/her signature may be 12023-81 Street CATHOLIC www.ecsd.net required on certain forms. Ph: 477.2352 St. Alphonsus Elementary & Jr High Norwood Elementary 11624-81 Street 7E ARE IN YOUR 9520-111 Avenue Ph: 477.2513 NEIGHBOURHOOD Ph: 477.1002 March 16, 7pm SINCE Parkdale Elementary St. Basil Elem & Jr High (OURS -ON &RI