Chautauqua Friday, December 5, 2003

“Bringing traditions of the past to the business of today”

Santa’s Anonymous Donation

2003 Vol. 2, No. 23

Alix Lions Peace Poster Winners

Lion Mary Flexhaug presents the winners of the Lions Peace Poster contest with their prizes. 1st in Mirror - Tamara Deedman (left), 1st in Alix - Amy Torringa. Other winners were Hilary Meehan, Joshua Marks and Clayton Danser.

During the Parent/Teacher interviews at Mirror School, a Book Fair was hosted. As a result, 34 books were donated to Santa's Anonymous. Many thanks go out to those who sponsored and donated books to this worthy cause. It is our wish that these books make Christmas just a little bit happier for a number of boys and girls in Mirror and area. Vicky Proud, Mirror School Librarian (left) presents the books to Connie Brooks, from Mirror FCSS.

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

Photo courtesy of Mirror School

The Christmas spirit was alive as shoppers perused the Christmas goodies and gifts available for purchasing at the Alix Christmas Farmers’ Market held Nov. 29th. The market kicked off a fun-filled day which included a visit from Santa at Home Hardware and various activities for the children in the afternoon. Lynn Sheppard (above left) and Rhonda Foursel are all smiles as they cheerfully sold tickets for the Lions Club Raffle in support of Alix Community Playgrounds. If you haven’t got your ticket yet, there are still tickets available. Contact Rhonda at 747-0000. Draw date has been extended until Feb. 29, 2004. Don’t miss out on your chance to win a Honda Quad and other fantastic prizes.

Amaryllis Bulbs $5.97 10% off all Christmas lights

780-372-3872 Bashaw

Your Community Connection Serving Alix, Bashaw, Clive, Delburne, Haynes, Lousana, Mirror, and Tees

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The Chautauqua

FROM THE EDITOR’S COMPUTER On November 23, 2003, I was in Stettler to watch the Heartland Arts Troupe perform their rendition of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. All the performers and volunteers are to be commended on an excellent performance. The cast and crew of the production willingly shared their various talents so that the members of the audience could enjoy the experience. Not everyone can be the star of the production, but everyone’s contribution, no matter how small it may seem, is necessary for the whole production to occur. Each one of has a multitude of talents. Some of these talents we share quite readily, others we keep hidden. Some talents we wish to explore further, while others we refuse to acknowledge. Each of us has to determine which talents are most important to us, and which, depending on circumstances in our lives, we are willing to put on hold if need be. Only as individuals can we decide which talents we are going to develop and nurture within us, and then share with others around us. You don’t have to be perfect, or the star of the show, to share your talents. What are you waiting for?

Uxà{ Merry Christmas and Best Wishes in the New Year! Big Horn Equipment Earl and Bonnie Docherty

Letter to the Editor Congratulations, Beth. In one short column you managed to abuse your power as editor of a local paper to trash 225 of your neighbors in Mirror. You called us stupid, lazy, uncaring and selfish! That is really quite an accomplishment! As a retired editor of the Mirror Informer, I find it appalling that you would use the editor’s column to launch a personal attack on the people you live with in our community. You have done a serious disservice to the Chautauqua, the communities of Mirror and Alix, and yourself. Read well the letters written by Peggy Jerrard and Marlene Neis. They have said very clearly and tactfully what I am saying very bluntly - “If you feel ‘ashamed’ to live in Mirror, I feel much more ashamed to have to admit that I know you!” Our freedom of speech and press are very precious, but more important is knowing how to use these freedoms wisely and discretely. Sandy Konschuh

Friday, December 5, 2003

MUSINGS

By Kevin Burns Laugh Your Way to a Better Life "Have you heard the news? Canada is cool again." Rick Mercer, star of "This Hour Has 22 Minutes" and "Rick Mercer Talks To Americans" uttered those words as he opened the Just For Laughs Comedy Road Show on a western swing recently. "Canada being cool is not good news. Because if Canada is cool, that means we're on the

radar and that can't be good for Canada." Rick Mercer is one of those individuals who can take what would seem to be another opportunity to feel frustrated and turn it around so that we can laugh at the situation instead. Five other comedians took their turns on stage providing us with an evening of laughter. By night's end, tears could be seen running down many cheeks of the audience of over two thousand and I, like many others, had a pleasant headache from the laughter that we all shared that night. As we left the theatre, I noticed that every single person leaving wore a smile. This got me to thinking. The benefits of laughter have been well documented:

Christmas Greetings Send your personal or business Christmas Greeting via The Chautauqua! Business card sized Greeting: $7.00 insertion in the Christmas issue

www.villageofalix.ca Check it out!

disease strikes less, endorphins are released into the body to strengthen the immune system and stress fades away. Laughter is one of the best aerobic exercises as we inhale more oxygen when we laugh, we sleep better and laughter can help us look younger. Some things I've also noticed about laughter are: that we help others more when we are in a good mood. We'll volunteer more if we are having fun. We'll give more money to charity when we spend less time thinking about our own problems. We all need to laugh more. Not only do we need to laugh more but also we need to create more laughter in our own lives. In my speaking presentations I tell a lot of stories. Many of the stories are about people who just aren't paying attention to what they're doing. Many are going through life with rote routines and their hearts really aren't in what they are doing. In essence, they're not having fun. I don't make fun of people, I laugh at the situation I find myself in. The point is not to tell stories to illustrate that people are

frustrating because I really don't believe people are frustrating. However, I do believe that from time to time, situations have been placed on my path simply for my amusement. It's a simple shift in attitude. Imagine what would happen if you just shifted your attitude a little as well. Instead of thinking that you will be frustrated today, you would now look for situations to amuse you. Personally, I've yet to find a day that I'm not amused. If you want to have a good time in life, be the good time. You'll never be disappointed. Start looking for amusement in your own lives. You will make the world a happier place and you'll end up looking younger and sleeping better. Laugh. Trust me on this; it's good for you. Kevin Burns is a professional speaker, author and worldwide columnist who specializes in positive self-leadership through personal effectiveness. He believes that business gets better, relationships get better and life gets better, when we get better. Email: [email protected] or call 403-3464865.

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The Chautauqua

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403-352-3837 Box 249 Alix, AB T0C 0B0 Email: [email protected]

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The Chautauqua Box 249 Alix, AB T0C 0B0

Editor: Beth Richardson

Friday, December 5, 2003

ALIX-MAC NEWS By Linda Jaffray The Alix-MAC Senior Girls Volleyball coaches, Wade Rolles and Lori Fletcher, would like to congratulate their team on a terrific season. This year began as a rebuilding year, with no Grade 12’s playing, but quickly turned into a season that everyone involved can be proud of. The team consisted of three grade 11’s (Tanessa Thompson, Kelsey Wilson, and Ashley Russell), five grade 10’s (Lindy Payne, Lisa Giesbrecht, Jenny Brown, Tamara Pittman, and Amber Novakovski), and the two grade 9’s that we pulled up from Mrs. Shapka’s junior team (Alyssa Boyce, and Jessica Buelow). We placed 4th in a tournament in Bashaw early in the season and could see the beginning of a strong team. The girls play in a 1A league against other 1A teams in Wolf Creek and Chinook’s Edge schools. Out of the 1A teams in our league, they finished first and played Bowden in a very close playoff game, before bowing out. Next season looks very good, with everyone being able to play again, so look for these girls to make it to districts and maybe even further… As coaches we would like to thank the girls for this year. You are a great group to coach: always giving your all, never getting down, and always having fun. We would also like to thank all the parents who drove countless miles and were always there to cheer. Your support, added to a great year. The school Christmas Concert will be Wednesday, December 17 starting at 7:00 pm. Members of the community, as well as parents, are invited to attend. We will be collecting items for the food bank that night – so bring along a nonperishable food item please. Grade 12 Chemistry 30 class took a tour of the Rahr Malting plant in Alix on Wednesday, December 3. Thank you to Mr. Bob Chappel for lunch and the great tour of their facility. Students greatly value real life experiences that add to the theory of the courses they are studying. Alix MAC hosted a special presentation by AADAC and the David Thompson Regional Health Region focusing on Tobacco. They met with students in grades 4 to 9. As a followup students worked on a postcard project. Names were drawn for prizes. The winners were: Grade 4 Rio Harvey, Katherine Specht, Cassidy Meston, Christian Kiyawasew, Taryn Wagner and Dane Nelson. Grade 5 Keisha Ryan, Brian Nordman, Jessie Weymer, Mitchell Domier, Taylor Croswell, and Alyssa Solverson Grade 6 Teegan Wagner, Tye Wilton, Danae Henry, Chantal Payne, Thomasina Payne, Maeriann Rosenthal, and Lawrie Saunders

The Chautauqua

Grade 7 Devin Larkin, Weston Pickford, Billy Giesbrecht, Gretchen Nelson, and Katie Domier Grade 8 Denise Scott, Megan Kary, Danny Lyle, Matt Barwell, Tom Williams, and Nate Lynch. Grade 9 Terry Besuijen, Jarrod Crack, Christian Ambuehl, Shaynen Clermont, Chris Rexius, and Justin Garrett Our band under the direction of Mrs. Jo Anne Henry has been very busy. On Wednesday, November 26, Junior Band students played for the Clive band parents at 7:00 p.m. at the Clive School. On Saturday, November 29: Senior Concert Ensemble played in the afternoon for the Alix Community Christmas Celebration. On Thursday, December 4: Junior Concert Band will play for the Seniors Christmas Tea in the afternoon during band class. On Friday, December 5: Senior Concert Ensemble will be touring to the Clive School in the morning and then on to West Edmonton Mall to play twice in the afternoon. On Thursday, December 11: Senior Concert Ensemble has been invited back to play for the Tees Christmas Concert in the evening. On Wednesday, December 17: All bands will play for our own school Christmas Concert On Thursday, December 18: The Junior Concert Band has been invited to play for the Clive School Christmas Concert in the evening. Ms. Marilee Litman from the Canadian Cancer Society attended the Elementary Awards on Wednesday, November 26 and received a cheque for $2,647.27 from Mr. Strong. This is the money that the staff and students raised as part of the R & R (respect and responsibility) run held in October. Thank you to the community for your generous support of this event. The Outdoor Education class at Alix MAC is hosting a Silent Auction and Family Dinner on Wednesday, December 17th, 2003. Dinner will be 4:30 to 7:00 pm, with the Silent Auction from 4:30 to 8:30 pm. Both activities will be held in the elementary gym at Alix MAC School. Prices for Dinner tickets are adult (6yrs and older) $5.00, Family (includes 2 adults and all children in famil y) $16.00, Child (6 yrs and under) $2.50. Dinner includes beef on a bun, salad, dessert and beverages (coffee, juice, hot apple cider). Admission to the Silent Auction is free.

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Seven Steps to Health Canadian Cancer Society, AB/NWT Division Be a non-smoker and avoid second hand smoke – smoking causes about 3% of all cancer deaths in Canada. •

Eat 5 to 10 servings of vegetables and fruit a day, choose high fibre, lower fat foods, and limit your alcohol intake to 1 to 2 drinks a day. •

Be physically active on a regular basis as this will also help you maintain a healthy body weight. •

Protect yourself and your family from the sun – reduce your sun exposure between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm. •

Follow cancer screening guidelines – the earlier the cancer is found, the more successful the treatment is likely to be. •

Visit your doctor or dentist if you notice any change in your normal state of health. •

Follow health and safety instructions when using, storing and disposing of hazardous waste materials at home or work. •

For more information go to www.cancer.ca.

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BANQUET and CONCERT CELEBRATIONS Alix Evangelical Free Church Dec. 13, 2003 Supper 5:30 pm

Concert 7:00 pm

The Ewert Family Gospel Singers will bring an evening of fine music for the festive season. Come enjoy an evening of fine food, celebration and fellowship. A Free Will Offering will be taken.

The only way to learn strong faith is to endure strong trials. – George Mueller

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The Chautauqua

4928 - 50th St. 403-747-3233 Box 69 Alix, AB T0C 0B0 [email protected] READ with the ALIXGATOR

Librarian: Beth Richardson

CHRISTMAS CLOSURE: The Library will be closed Dec. 20, 2003 for Christmas Holidays and will reopen again on Jan. 6, 2004. We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday. MEMBERSHIP FEES: $5 - individual and $10 - family. You can use your library card at virtually every public library in the province at no extra cost. The Lois Hole Library Legacy Program - Grow Your Library - You can help make a difference by investing in the future of Alberta through a legacy donation to one of Alberta’s libraries. You can create a tribute to someone dear to you, recognize milestones or special occasions in the lives of family and friends (anniversaries, graduation), or other forms of legacy gifts such as bequests, named endowments and trusts. REMINDER Anyone who has a membership in the Alix Public Library who resides outside of Alix corporate limits, within the County of Lacombe, is asked to please supply the library with your legal land description. The County requires us to collect this information for verification purposes for the distribution of grant monies. Thank you for your cooperation. Board Members Wanted - We are looking for individuals interested in sitting on the Library Board. Meetings are held every 6 weeks. Please contact the library at 747-3233 if you are interested in joining the Board. Books For Sale - We have a varied selection of used books for sale, including children’s and teen books. We also gladly accept book donations. We will have some books available for sale at the Christmas Market on Nov. 29th...look for our table! ONLINE CATALOG www.prl.ab.ca/ipac.html Click on the pull down list, select Alix Public Library and click on Go the iPac!. To request titles or to check your library account, you need your 14-digit barcode from your library card and a PIN (last 4 digits of your phone number). NEW TITLES Deadly Promise by Brenda Joyce - it is March of 1902, and a grave new danger is haunting the streets of New York. Francesca is torn between two very different men as she realizes that the evil force may try to silence her too...if she dares to uncover the truth... Key of Light by Nora Roberts - Fate brings three women together for a chance to unlock their deepest desires...a quest that could fulfill their destinies, or forever destroy their lives... Dying to Please by Linda Howard - Sarah

Friday, December 5, 2003

LIBRARY HOURS 9:30 - 4:30 pm 3:00 - 5:00 pm 7:00 - 9:00 pm THURS: 10:30 - 4:30 pm SAT: 10:00 – 2:00 pm TUES: WED:

Book Drop located @ back of Library

Stevens is a woman with many distinctive qualities. But, she catches the attention of a tortured soul who, unbeknownst to Sarah, will stop at nothing to have her for himself. Reversible Errors by Scott Turow - Inmate Rommy insists he's innocent and new evidence has convinced his attorney...but when the state has the power to kill, everything is life or death. Someone to Watch Over Me by Judith McNaught - The more Leigh discovers about her husband and his business affairs, the less she realizes she knew about Logan Manning...now she is heading deeper and deeper into unknown territory... Masquerade by B.J. Hoff - Danni returns to her hometown only to find herself trapped in a terrifying maelstrom of deadly events...with her hometown falling captive to the corrupt power of a cult, Danni risks her life to uncover the truth…

May the blessings of the Season enter your lives and hearts today! Merry Christmas from the Staff, Volunteers and Board Members of the Alix Public Library

Kyoto politicians Kyoto on TV Kyoto for the whole wide world Kyoto you and me.

Kyoto R. Soltermann Kyoto in the barnyard Kyoto in the breeze Kyoto in the parking lot Kyoto SUV’s

As of Nov 13 2003

Alix Community Services Coordinator: Glenna Carlson 747-2030 The X-mas Extravaganza went well, I hope. Thanks so very much to the volunteers. I cant begin to imagine doing these events without your support. Office Hours: Tuesday, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 to 12:30. I am in and out of the office the rest of the week. Snow Shoveling: If you are requiring snow shoveling this winter, I have a person willing to do it for you. Please let me know. Christmas Food Certificates are now available, as well as Santa’s Anonymous in my office.

When in… WESTERN SAHARA Alix Public Library is once again hosting our ‘When in...’ Dinner/travelogue series. We invite you to join us for our next stop

Saturday, Jan. 24th at 6:30 p.m. If you have anything from Africa you could lend us for the display table, or you need a recipe for the potluck dinner, please contact Beth at the Library. These nights are very popular, and seating in is limited. There is no cost, but you must register to attend. Contact the Library at 747-3233.

In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing. – Theodore Roosevelt

Friday, December 5, 2003

The Chautauqua

VILLAGE OF CLIVE (Alix, Mirror and Area) “the pulse of the community” Facilitator: Linda van Ringen Phone Neighbourhood Network Society of Alberta at (403) 747-3522, Fax: (403) 747-2297 or send an email to the following address: [email protected] for further information on any of the following topics:

Meet and Greet: If you are new to the community and haven’t received a visit from Meet and Greet, or if you have a new neighbour, please call Mary Flexhaug at 747-3167. Alix Food Bank: To access the Alix Food Bank, or obtain information regarding it’s operation, please call Eve 747-3119, Susan 7473170, Karen 747-2495, Glenna 747-2030 or Linda at 747-3522. Transportation Volunteers: Our roster of volunteers who will drive seniors and others in need to essential appointments really needs to be replenished. If you make frequent trips to Red Deer, Lacombe or Ponoka and would be willing to take someone along for an appointment or if you have a couple of hours of free time and would be willing to drive, please call and we will make arrangements to add you to our list of volunteers. Many of the people who have been graciously giving their time are seniors themselves and it would be wonderful to see some of the younger people join this much needed service. R-Own Food Co-operative: R-Own Food Coop has undergone a few changes since the new year and the main responsibilities of the co-op move into the hands of the Clive/Tees Neighbourhood Place. As a community driven service we will operate the Food Co-op until permanent leadership is found. Anyone can enter the food co-op at any time. You may order up to five full orders per month. The cost of a full order is $20.00, which includes meat, vegetables and fruit, or meat can be ordered separately for $11.00 and vegetables and fruit for $9.00. If you are interested in belonging to the Food Co-op please phone myself at 747-3522 for further information or Tammy at 788-2933 to place an order. REMEMBER — THE ANSWERS ARE OUT THERE… AND I AM HERE TO HELP YOU FIND THEM! PLEASE CALL! CENTRAL OFFICE SUPPLIES LTD. Home, Office and School Supplies Complete line of Stationery Toner - Fax Film - Ink Jet Supplies

FREE TUESDAY DELIVERY To Your BUSINESS Box 4415 5026 50th Ave. Ponoka, AB T4J 1R7 Ph. 403-783-2299 Fax 403-783-2371

1-800-817-7949

Clive Village Office 784-3366 Clive Mayor: Elizabeth Virtue Council meetings are the 2nd & 4th Monday of each month at 7:00 pm at the Town Office. Clive Public Library Tracey 784-3131 Located below the Village Office. Tuesday 9 - noon, 5:30 - 8:30 pm Wednesday 2:00 - 5:00 pm Thursday 9 - noon, 2:00 - 5:00 pm Coffee Time @ the Library - every Thursday morning. Story Time - Wednesday afternoons from 2 2:30 pm at the Library. For children 3 - 5 years old. There is no charge. Clive School 784-3354 Principal Ian Rawlinson Secretary Sue Boston Clive Ag Society meets 3rd Thurs. of the month at 7:30 at Meeting Room. Jason Wagner 784-2823 Clive Senior Circle Contact Albert Wagner Clive Lions Club meets 2nd and 4th Wed. of the month, 7:30 at Clive Community Hall. Gene Rowley 372-2437 Clive Legion Louise Bell 784-3414 Clive Multi 4-H Debbie Soderberg 784-3834 Clive Hall Bev Krochak 784-3964 Fire Department Monte Zaytsoff 784-2066 Neighbourhood Place Edith McPhedran 784-3171 Clive Historical Society Louise Bell 784-3414 Chatelaine Club (Westling) meets 3rd Tues. 7:30 at Westling Hall, Sue Boston 784-2461 Clive Baptist Church Ron Orr 784-3252 Clive Christian Fellowship Gord Rowland 784-3141 Clive United Church Shealagh McClelland 784-3367 Saron Lutheran Church Rev. Art Henkelman 343-6836 Clive Curling Club Bev Krochak 784-3964 Clive Skating Club Murray Meldrum 784-2407

Alzheimer Disease (Alzheimer Society Publication) 1. Recognize that you are going through a roller coaster of emotions – you may respond to the news of the diagnosis and the changes caused by the disease with a variety of emotions. These emotions are very normal and may come and go. It may be helpful to be aware that members of your family will also be experiencing the same type of emotional roller coaster. If your feelings are overwhelming and won’t go away, talk to your doctor. 2. Tell people – Let the people closest to you know that you are living with Alzheimer Disease. Sharing this information will help them to know that the difficulties you are having are a result of the disease. Knowing this will also allow you to tell them how they might be able to support you. 3. Learn as much as you feel you can –

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ALIX HOME HARDWARE Put a Light in the Window! Battery Operated Candles Single or Triple Photo-cell turns on at dusk See our

3M Mounting Products

Holiday Pack Jumbo, Large, Medium, Small Hooks Cord and Decorating Clips

Hang wreaths , stockings etc.

Holds Firmly! Removes Cleanly! Avoid the crowds and shop at Home!

Help is Close to HOME Find out what you can about the disease and how it will progress. Learn about tips and strategies that might help you day to day. 4. Recognize that you have a disease that affects your abilities – Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t do. Find ways that might help you cope with changes. Simplify your life wherever you can. Reduce the number of pressures you face. Follow a routine. Learn to be patient. 5. Plan for the future – If there are decisions about your personal life that you have been putting off, make them now. Put your paperwork in order, if it is not already. Ensure you have chosen someone to make financial and health-care decisions for you when you are unable to do so. 6. Explore treatment options – Currently there is no cure for Alzheimer Disease. Medications are available that can help some people with some of the symptoms. Discuss their risks and benefits with your doctor. 7. Look for support – Find people you are comfortable with to share your feelings and emotions. Some people also find writing their thoughts, feeling and experiences in a journal helpful. 8. Seek out help – The are community agencies, services and resources to help you and your family. 9. Live each day – Live one day at a time. You will continue to have abilities…focus on them. Do the things you enjoy and that bring you meaning and fulfillment. Maintain your physical health, exercise and eat a healthy diet. Know the Alzheimer Society is here to help – contact the Alzheimer Society of Alberta at 1-888-233-0332 to find out more.

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The Chautauqua

Mirror Community Sat., Dec. 6 Christmas Tea, Bazaar & Bake Sale at the Library 10 - 1 pm. Everyone welcome. Sun., Dec. 14 White Gift Service and Sunday School Christmas Program. Wed., Dec. 24 Christmas Eve service, with Communion, 6:30 pm at the Mirror United Church. _________________ Jolly Seniors Coffee is on every weekday morning at the Friendly Inn Suppers - 1st. & 3rd. Wednesdays of each month @ 5:30 p.m. at the Friendly Inn. Floor Curling held Thursdays at 1:30 pm at the Community Hall. Pancake Breakfast - 2nd Sunday of the month. 9:00 a.m. -

1:00 p.m. @ the Jolly Seniors. Youth Group Friday Night's Mini Youth Group meets at the Alliance Church at 7:00 pm. Ages 4 to grade 6 welcome. Senior Youth Group meets at Sturgeon's at 7:30 pm. Mom’s & Tot’s at the Mirror School Portable Wednesdays 9:30 - 11:00 am Sparks, Brownies, Guides, Pathfinders & Rangers For information, & to register, phone Gale Richardson 7883835. New chocolate mint cookies are here! Make great Christmas gifts. Mi rro r Uni ted Church Sunday services at 9:30 am. Sunday School classes during the regular service.

Mi rror S ch ool Events contact 7883913 Rec. Society contact is Marlene Neis 7882166. New members welcome. Museum Society contact is Don Wilson 788-3836 or Roger Laforce 7883094. Meetings are the 1st Monday of the month at 7:30 pm. Mirror Jolly Seniors contact is President, Theresa Laforce 788-3094. Public Library Tues. 9:30 - 12:30 Wed 7:00 - 9:00 Thurs. 1:00 - 5:00 Contact Heather at 788-3044

Friday, December 5, 2003

News from Mirror Family & Community Support Services CONNIE BROOKS 788-3011 or 747-2416 Eight participants enjoyed creating fresh flower and candle Christmas centerpieces at a class held on Saturday, November 29, with florist Bonnie Vantklooster instructing. Christmas can be a stressful time, especially for low-income families. Three locally available programs can help! If you need assistance this Christmas, please contact Connie to apply for Santas’ Anonymous, a Christmas Food Certificate (a grocery voucher, cashable at any grocery store in the County of Lacombe), or Clothing for Kids (a new winter clothing item for a child in need). All enquiries and applications are confidential. If you would like to donate to any of the preceding programs, leave a new toy at the Mirror Post Office or General Store, or contact Connie or Lacombe FCSS @ 782-6637. Registrations are now being accepted for the winter term of our licensed preschool, Fun For Fours. Classes are every Monday and Friday morning at the School Portable. Our certified teacher Tami Robinson has wonderful and creative teaching techniques to help your preschool get ready for kindergarten. Please register by December 15, 2003. Eligible children must be four years of age by May 31, 2004, and the fee for the entire term is just $60.00. For information or to register, call Connie Brooks @ 788-3011 or 747-2416

New Face at Mirror School

Village Office Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 8:00 - noon & 1:00 4:00 pm. 788-3011 Transfer Station Hours Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10 - 6 pm

Welcome to Mirror School’s newest staff member, Mrs. Leslie Esteves, who is from Rimbey and will be teaching the Kindergarten class. Photo courtesy of Mirror School

The smile says it all, as the Cessna flies through the air. Photo courtesy of Richard Brooks, Mirror School

By Richard Brooks In perfect weather - calm, clear and crisp - Sky Wings Aviation Academy provided a memorable learning experience for Mirror students in Grade 5/6. On Wednesday, November 26, Mr. Brooks, accompanied by seventeen students and six enthusiastic parents, toured the Sky Wings hangars and maintenance buildings. They also observed skilled workers

refinishing airplanes, helicopters being rebuilt, and toured the Air Spray water bomber facilities, where they climbed into a stripped down water bomber, being readied for outfitting with firefighting equipment. The students then experienced what for many was a first – they took off in a four-seater Cessna 172 with a skilled pilot, and experienced the magic of flight (and for some a free fall weightlessness). Wow! No more talk of Bernoulli’s principle, control surfaces, thrust, drag, weight, and lift. It was the real thing. Shicara describes the plane ride as, “Whoo and Whoa and Wow!” For Melissa, the excitement was seeing “the fastest water bomber in Canada…[and the] helicopters. All the students had a great time. Hats off to General Manager, Dennis Cooper for providing such a safe, marvelous and inexpensive opportunity, to Director of Maintenance, Bryan Bennett for being our enthusiastic tour guide, the pilots Stewart and Chris, and friendly staff for making our day an experience to savor for a very long time. A thrilling way to celebrate our success in science!

Friday, December 5, 2003

Delburne Events Delburne Drop In Centre Crib Mondays at 1:30 p.m. Carpet Bowling Tuesday Evenings Music & Dance 2nd, 4th, 5th Fri. 1-4 p.m. All Welcome. Contact Lars Snethun 749-2056 Lousana Drop In Centre Carpet Bowling Sundays at 7:00 p.m. Floor Curling Fridays at 7:00 p.m. Contact Goldie Lee at 749-2369 The Royal Canadian Legion Open Fri. & Sat. at 5:00 p.m. All Welcome. Contact Don McInenly at 749-2663 Ladies Auxiliary to the Legion New members wanted!! Meet 2nd Saturday of the month at 1:30 pm. Call Hazel Bysterveld 749-3796 or Flora Carter 749-2080 Anthony Henday Historical Society Meets the 1st Thurs of every month at the Museum; the public is welcome. Contact Audrey Nicholson 749-2436 ELKS Meeting: Meets 2nd Monday of the month at 8:00 p.m. sharp. Contact Ernie Whiteside at 749-2099. ELKS Senior Bus to Red Deer every 2nd and 4th Thursday. Call Bob Manning 749-3792 Women’s Institute Meetings the first Tues. of every month. Call Ada 749-2093 for location. TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Meets every Wednesday at the Library Contact Ada 749-2093 or Debbie 749-3050 Open AA/Al-anon meetings 1st Monday of each month, at Elnora Anglican Church @ 8:30 pm. Delburne Library Open Tuesday Thursday, Saturday

1-4:00; 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Village Council Meetings 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at the Village Office at 7:00 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. Contact Debbie Bobocel 749-3606. FCSS Board is in need of board members. 9 meetings a year, during the day. Contact Maureen @ 749-3380. Karate Classes Tuesdays & Wednesdays at Delburne Community Hall. New members welcome. Contact Jan Temblay 749-2228. Delburne Pottery Club Wednesday mornings at 9:00 am located at the rear of the Curling Rink. Contact Laura Wright 749-2136. Dip & Dab Painting Club Do you enjoy acrylic painting? Members welcome to join our club at no charge. Meet once a week. Call Marlene Buckland 749-2568 if interested. Delburne Light Horse Association Contact Darlene Schlag 749-2506 or 391-2731

The Chautauqua

Merry Christmas and all the best in the New Year Little or a Lot, Delburne Delburne Ag Society Meets every 2nd Wednesday. Contact Curtis Rusaw 749-2153 or Janice Dyck 749-3011. Delburne Figure Skating Club Contact Lynne Allison 749-2588 for more info. Bingo every other Thursday. MacDonald 749-2388.

Contact Bev

Newcomers to Delburne Please stop by Neighbourhood Place for your Welcome Wagon package. Delburne Pharmacist Services - Alix Drugs provides a full prescription service for customers and Shannon Glover is able to deliver to Delburne and area residents. She can provide confidential delivery and counseling of medications. Call Shannon at 391-6775. 4th Annual Junior Forest Warden Craft Sale at the Delburne Community Hall, Saturday, December 13, 2003 from 3-8 pm. Tables for rent $5.00 or $8.00 with a backdrop. Chili & buns, coffee & tea and donuts available. Contact Helen @ 773-3573 for more information. Delburne Neighborhood Place Coordinator: Roanne Bryant (403) 749-3380. Hours: Monday to Thursday 10—3 pm PAC - Parent Advisory Council Meetings on first Wednesday of the month. Contact Terry Davidson at 749-2477 for more info. Economic Development Group Marilyn McDougall @ 749-3949.

Contact

Education Group Contact Corinne Hansen @ 773-3636 for more info. Delburne Minor Hockey Meeting 1st Thursday of the month Call Peter Lawrence 8864143 or Karla Unger for info 749-2702. Delburne Playschool Tuesday's and Thursday's from 9-11:30. Call Tracey Jackson 7493059 for more info. Delburne 4-H Beef Club For more information please phone Deb Wells at 749-2651. Junior Forest Wardens Our group is unique and the 4 key areas are: Outdoor skills, Ecology, Forestry & Leadership. For children ages 6-18. Call Deb Jackson @ 749-2429 for more information. Breakfast Program Anyone wishing to share 45 min every two weeks with the Breakfast

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Program at the Delburne School please contact Neighborhood Place at 749-3380. Family School Wellness Worker - Elsie Ramsden Cell number is 304-6842 or Delburne School 749-3838 or Neighborhood Place 749-3380. Would you or an organization wish to take part in helping our community at Christmas? We had an overwhelming success last year with Adopting a Family. Call Laura Biggs at 749-2665 or Maureen at 749-3380. Delburne Centralized School Dec. 12 – No School Dec. 18 – Elementary Christmas Concert Dec. 19 – Junior High Skiing/Bowling Dec. 20 – Jan. 4 – Christmas Holidays Jan. 8 – Junior High Skiing/Bowling Feb. 5 - Hypnotist Marc Savard booked Please remember to phone the school ASAP when your child/children will be away. Student Memberships for Harvest Gym Just a reminder for Delburne School students 14 years of age and older – Harvest Gym memberships for 2003/2004 school year are only $40.00 and are good until June 25th, 2004. Hot Lunch Program Debi Volker at 7492095. Hot dog sales remain every Wednesday at $1.00 each. Friday, January 9th Chicken Nuggets and Carrot Sticks: Small (250ml) - $1.50, Large (500ml) - $2.50 Friday, January 16th Hamburger Soup or Chicken Noodle Soup; Small (250ml) - $1.50, Large (500ml) - $2.50 Friday, January 23rd Hamburger Muffins and Celery Sticks: One - $1.50, Two - $2.50 Homework If your child is away from school for more than two days, you can call the school at 749-3838 and we will gather up the homework for you for pickup by 2:00 p.m. Winter is here so when students are riding the bus, they are required to have with them the following: WINTER BOOTS. MITTS, TOQUE and WINTER JACKET. Since we’re getting closer to winter, it’s time to remind residents that property owners/residents are responsible for clearing ice and snow from sidewalks adjacent to their property.

Come visit us on SNOWFLAKE SATURDAY Dec. 13th for free coffee, doughnuts and draws. Chamber of Commerce sponsors hayrides, hot dogs & hot chocolate, Santa and so much more.

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Friday, December 5, 2003

Bashaw Happenings

Dance Classes - Ballet, Jazz, Tap Call Roxanne Delay at (403) 350-3318.

Bashaw Bus Society Shuttle every Tuesday and Thursday morning, 9:00 - noon. Trips to Camrose are offered on the 2nd Monday and the 4th Friday of the month. Call Marianne at 372-3631 for more information.

Neighbourhood Newcomers A group of individuals who will provide an orientation of the community and its services to newcomers to the area. If you are interested in joining, or finding out more information, please call Neighbourhood Place at 372-3633.

Bashaw Youth Centre open Monday 1 - 9:00 pm, Tuesday to Friday 11 - 9:00 pm. Phone 372-4048. Do You Have Jobs or Tasks Suitable for Youth? If so, contact Lorraine or Tanya and the Bashaw Youth Centre at 3724048! Happy Gang Seniors Centre Crib Thursdays 1:30 pm Shuffle Board & Bingo alternate every Wednesday at 1:30 pm 500 Mondays 1:00 pm Meetings - 1st Tuesday of each month @ 1:30 Contact Shirley Poirier at 372-2018. Meals on Wheels To book your meals or for more information, call Marj or Christine at 372-4074. Bethany Lifeline BDSS offers this service to residents of Bashaw and surrounding areas. Women’s Institute meetings 1st Wednesday of the month at 1:30 pm. Contact: Alice Lowis 372-3897. Fire Department Meeting 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month Royal Purple Meeting 2nd Tuesday at 8 pm TOPS every Tuesday at 6:45 pm at the Anglican Church (use side door). Contact: Robin Baker at 788-2689. Bashaw Preschool Reading Program 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month at 11:15 am at the Library. Herbalist, Ann Wakelin at Neighbourhood Place. To book an appointment call Brenda Ball at 372-3044. Catholic Church Mass Time Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Bashaw Sunday 10:30 am Tuesday 7:00 pm Wednesday 8:30 am Office Hours: Wednesdays 780-372-3645 Town Council Meetings 1st & 3rd Tuesdays Legion Bingo Wednesdays at 7:30 pm. The Bashaw & District Food Bank is located in the Neighbourhood Place building on main street. Any community member that is in need of assistance is welcome to access this service. Bashaw Art Club For more information 780877-2529. Community Kitchens For further details or to register, please call 372-4074. Cooking session Dec. 9 at 10 am at Community Centre.

Tiny Tots a social, interactive group for children from 0-4 and their caregivers. It offers an opportunity for fun, friendship, socialization, and support for both adults and children. Wednesday, 10:00-11:30 AM at Neighbourhood Place. Please feel free to drop in! Special Christmas event - Dec. 10 from 10 11:30 am.

Bashaw Well Child Clinics 2nd Thursday of each month. For appointments, please call Camrose Public Health at 679-2980.

Head Start Bashaw School is starting a free breakfast program. They are looking for community individuals, groups and organizations to pledge a little or a lot to help make nutritious breakfasts for children in the school. Contact Lynn Woffindin at 372-3800.

Bashaw Municipal Library 3rd Silent Auction The Auction runs for the entire month of November and until Dec. 7.

Bashaw Skating Club Calendars $10 each. Call Karen Bourdages 372-2447. Bashaw Adult Learning Council For more information on upcoming courses call 780-372-3648 Yoga Classes - Jan. 13 - Mar. 30, 2004 Tuesdays 7-8:00 pm at Neighbourhood Place. $60 for the 12 weeks. Contact Beth Richardson 788-3835. Counseling Services BDSS will be offering Counseling Services through “Insight Psychological and Family Support Services”. Example areas of Counseling are: Couple/Marital Therapy, Stress Management, Sleep Disorders, Depression, Anger Management, Emotional Disorders, Dream Analysis, Attachment Disorders, Burnout/Anxiety, Hypnosis. To inquire or book your appointment, call 372-4074 or 1-888-311-3501.

Piece of Cake Author Unknown A daughter is telling her Mother how everything is going wrong, she's failing algebra, her boyfriend broke up with her and her best friend is moving away. Meanwhile, her Mother is baking a cake and asks her daughter if she would like a snack, and the daughter says, "Absolutely Mom, I love your cake." "Here, have some cooking oil," her Mother offers. "Yuck" says her daughter. How about a couple raw eggs?" "Gross, Mom!" "Would you like some flour then? Or maybe baking soda?" "Mom, those are all yucky!"

Working Women’s Wednesday Supper & Socialize on Wednesdays at Wong’s Restaurant at 5:30 pm. For more information contact Sheri Arsenault at 372-2375.

Ecumenical Advent Services 7:30 pm Dec. 7 Lutheran Church with Frank Johnson speaking Dec. 14 United Church with Joyce Mellor speaking Bashaw RCMP Victim Services Committee For more information contact Ed Hagel at 780-372-3508. Bashaw Arena Public Skating Hours Tuesday and Friday 3:30 - 5:00 pm Sunday 1:15 - 2:15 pm Shinny Thursday 3:30 - 5:00 pm Friday 2:15 - 3:15 pm Legion Santa Day Saturday, Dec. 6, 2 - 4 pm Bashaw Christmas in the Country Craft Show December 7th at the Community Hall. Christmas Eve Service Dec. 24 at the United Church, with Communion, at 8:00 pm. To which the mother replies: "Yes, all those things seem bad all by themselves. But when they are put together in the right way they make a wonderfully delicious cake! God works the same way. Many times we wonder why He would let us go through such bad and difficult times. But God knows that when He puts these things all in His order, they always work for good! We just have to trust Him and, eventually, they will all make something wonderful! God is crazy about you. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning. He sends us stars at night. Whenever you want to talk, He'll listen. He can live anywhere in the universe, and He chose your heart. I hope your day is a "piece of cake!"

Friday, December 5, 2003

KEVIN SORENSON, M.P., CROWFOOT

CA Solicitor General Critic

REPORT FROM PARLIAMENT Seniors often call my constituency office with questions or concerns regarding a number of issues. Surprisingly, when the conversation turns to problems with insufficient income, many do not know about the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). When they are informed of this benefit and apply to receive it, they learn that it is only retroactive for up to eleven months even though in some cases they were entitled to receive the GIS for a number of years. I therefore thought it extremely important to provide the following, which is available through Human Resource Development Canada (HRDC) so all seniors are properly informed about this benefit. The Guaranteed Income Supplement provides additional money, on top of the Old Age Security (OAS) pension, to low-income seniors living in Canada. You must be receiving the OAS pension and meet certain income requirements to be eligible for the GIS benefit. The GIS is based on your annual income, or the combined annual income of you and your spouse. Since your annual income can change from year to year, you must renew your GIS each

year. Most seniors automatically renew their GIS simply by filing their income tax return by April 30th. To determine if you are eligible for this benefit or if you would like to apply for it, you may call HRDC toll free at 1800-277-9914. If you have a hearing or speech impairment and use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), please call 1800-255-4786. If you did not qualify for the GIS benefit in the past, but you think you might be eligible now, you should apply as soon as possible, because, as I pointed out before, it is only retroactive for up to eleven months. The application kit you will be sent by HRDC after calling the toll free number, will describe what documents, if any, you need to provide. If you are married you may be asked to provide a marriage certificate. If you don’ t have a marriage certificate you can get one from the church in which you were married. Or, you can contact the Registrar of Vital Statistics in the capital city of the province or territory in which you were married. If you marry or separate while getting the GIS benefit, or if your spouse dies, you must let HRDC know as it may affect your benefits. If you and your spouse are separated for reasons beyond your control such as one of you

living in a hospital or nursing home, you should apprise HRDC as you can each be considered as a single person if that will give you a higher monthly payment. I would encourage all seniors, especially low-income seniors, to inquire about the GIS as soon as possible to determine if you are eligible to receive this benefit. Although the proportion of seniors living below the poverty line has improved since the early 1980’s, in my opinion, still far too many are living below it today. I think we must do everything we can to ensure that our seniors - valuable members of our communities are living comfortable and happy lives; after years of hard work that has benefited the next generation, are seniors deserve nothing less. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this or previous columns, you may write me at 4945 - 50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9 or e-mail [email protected].

The Chautauqua MISCELANEOUS

Curb-side Blue Box Recycling Service is available in Alix and Mirror. Telephone: Albertan’s Recycle 2001 at 747-2057 or 350-7394 for details. THIMBELLS announces JINGLE BELL TIME Tues., Dec. 9 - Epicure Selections. Wed., Dec. 10 - Gramma’s Attic. Thurs., Dec. 11 Jewelry. Purchases taken home that day. Special times 11 am - 5:30 pm. Lots of Gifts & Refreshments. Corner of 48th Main, Clive.

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

Mirror: Lrg. 2 bedrm. apartment for rent with balcony in quiet well maintained adult bldg. Heat, water and parking incl. Rent $480.00 - Damage deposit $480.00. Please phone 7882248.

Page 9 ANNOUNCEMENT

50th Anniversary Congratulations to Gus & Joyce Simard. Love from: Louise & Ernie & family; Daryl & Karla & family; Debbie & family; Donnie & family An Open House will be held in the spring.

Specializing in feeder cattle

BILL NEIS Licensed, Bonded Livestock Buyer VJV Representative CELLULAR: 350-6241 PHONE: 788-2166 Box 161 FAX: 788-2166 MIRROR, ALBERTA T0B 3C0

COMING EVENTS

Alix Women’s Institute welcomes all seniors to our Seniors Christmas Dinner at Alix Community Hall Dec. 4, 12 noon. Entertainment: Alix Grade 3 class and Alix Band. Phone 747-2794 if in need of information. Home Interiors Open House Dec. 6th 1 - 7 pm, Dec. 7th 1 - 5 pm at Louise Peterson’s. Phone for directions 742-8189.

If you don’t get satisfaction from doing something on a small scale, you won’t get any more satisfaction doing it on a global scale. Nothing, multiplied by five billion, is still nothing. – Mother Teresa

Recipe for Rural Progress Source Unknown • • • • • • •

Take a large measure of foresight, good judgment and clear thinking. Add a desire to work with neighbors for mutual advantage. Mix well with a quantity of cooperative education. Keep out all petty, spite and jealousy. Pour in a goodly measure of the milk of human kindness. Spice with a desire for the advancement of fellow humans. Mix well together.

Result: SUCCESS AND COOPERATION

Classified Ad Rates: Minimum $3.50

Shop for quality women’s fashions in the comfort of your own home.

CHRISTMAS SALE For more information call: Beth Richardson 788-3835

Lord, help me to sort out what I should do first, second and third today and to not try to do everything at once and nothing well. Give me the wisdom to delegate what I can, to say no when I need to, and the sense to know when to go home. – Marion Wright Edelman

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Musings

a little worn out." "I guess you'll be looking forward to putting your feet up in your own chair then," I said with a smile. "Yes, it will be good to be home," she said softly. Ellen no longer keeps in touch with family by mail. She chooses to use email instead. "It's been so helpful for me. The family thought I was never going to catch on to computers at my a ge , " she laughed. "What is your age if you don't mind me asking, "I said." "I'm eighty-three," she answered with pride. "Wow, you look great," I marvelled. "How do you stay so spry?" "Smile a lot and laugh a lot. And never get too old mentally to think that there's nothing more to learn. This got me to thinking. We really are never too old to learn new things. The world is changing regardless of whether or not we wish to tag along. Ellen taught me that no matter what our age, we can travel when we want, learn to use com-

By Kevin Burns Change or Get Left Behind The game of Airport Roulette was on. If you've ever traveled alone by airplane, you've likely played the game. Airport Roulette involves scanning all of the passengers in the boarding area as you attempt to figure out who you will be seated next to. If yo u 've t ravel ed alone, you've played the game. In my attempt to scan the passengers readying themselves to get on board the flight to the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, I struck up a few friendly conversations with some passengers. One of the passengers ended up seated next to me. But since I was a little late checking in, I was to be placed in a middle seat, which means I would have a passenger on either side of me. I took my seat aboard the plane and ended up seated next to a kindly looking, elderly woman. Although the flight was only fifty minutes in duration, I ended up chatting with Ellen. She was returning to her home in the Okanagan from her visit in Amherst, Nova Scotia. She explained that she had been up and travelling since two in the morning that day. My watch told me it was almost five o'clock in the afternoon. "I have twenty-six nieces and nephews," she said with a sigh. "They all wanted me to visit before I returned. I'm

puters, improve ourselves and adapt to the times changing around us. "It's not that we're resistant to change, just sudden change," I believe. We are different people than we were last year. We adapt, we re-tool and we move forward. If we don't, we get left behind. If we want our lives to be better, we have to get better. We've got to read, learn, pay attention, take an interest and embrace the changes going on in the world, even if we don't agree with them. The world's not going to stop changing because we don't like it. It's simply going to leave us behind. Kevin Burns is a professional speaker, author and worldwide columnist who specializes in positive self-leadership through personal effectiveness. He believes that business gets better, relationships get better and life gets better, when we get better. Email: [email protected] or call 403-3464865.

9:30 a.m.

Friday, December 5, 2003

You CAN do it! by David Miller The Secret to Tranquility The other day, while using the public restroom of a local business I could not help but notice the beauty of a framed photograph hanging on the wall. The secluded sandy beach, tall palm trees, red sky and blue ocean touched me somehow as I thought of how nice it would be to actually be there and relax in the warmth of the tropical sun. In the midst of my momentary fantasy I noticed the caption at the bottom of the picture: The poor long for riches. The rich long for heaven. But the wise desire tranquility. The last line in particular, spoke to my soul and I have pon de r ed m an y times since on it's meaning in my life. I have also thought of how fortunate I am to have discovered what so many have lost sight of in their lives: the secret to tranquility - or inner peace - as I like to call it. I first became aware of this secret in Cheryl Richardson's best-selling book Stand up for Your Life. In her book she talks about beginning by building a rock-solid relationship with yourself. After establishing this relationship, which is essentially learning to love

yourself and live according to your values, the next step is to set boundaries. Boundaries, she explains, are like imaginary lines we draw around ourselves that protect us from potentially damaging or hurtful behaviors of others, and, I would add, ourselves. Let me explain: In working on my relationship with myself, I realized that I had a very critical inner voice. This voice was constantly putting me down for things I neglected to do. And on top of that, the same inner voice kept beating me up for mistakes I made. It just never seemed to be good enough. And then one day I began to comprehend setting boundaries – in this case with myself. Here’s how it worked: In my case, a key person in my life – me – was harshly criticizing everything I did. But only when I learned to love myself did I began to be aware of this verbal and emotional selfabuse. I asked myself the question: If I would clearly never allow someone to treat my wife or any of my children like that, why would I allow it with me? My an-

swer: It was, simply, no longer acceptable. The time for change had come. And, I am happy to be able to say now that I did change. My inner critic has undergone a conversion of sorts and is now my inner cheerleader and best friend. In reviewing this whole process, I now know that what I accomplished was a result of setting boundaries with myself. Sounds funny, I know. But it works. I highly recommend the establishment of a rock-solid relationship with yourself, and the setting of internal boundaries. Nobody – not even yourself – has a right to treat you in a way that is harsh, negative or damaging. You are also a wonderful, important person with many admirable qualities and unique talents. The benefits of this to me have been incredible and numerous. I have found that my level of happiness and inner peace increase daily. You too, can find this same inner peace, or tranquility, that the wise desire. And if this process ever seems difficult, just remember: You CAN do it!! David Miller is a freelance writer. Comments can be sent to [email protected].

Wishing you a Merry Christmas

Mystique Staff & Families

Friday, December 5, 2003

Compromising By Angie Watters In any relationship, compromising is an important issue. In an ideal compromise, both sides meet in the middle so that each give up an equal amount of their own desires in order to agree upon a solution in unity. In life, this is not always possible. There are situations within life when one person is unable to give up an equal amount. This can occur because of the situation at hand, or because they are emotionally unable to do so. It’s important to

understand whether each side is a need or a want. If one side is a need and the other side is a want, then the equal compromise will not be found in the middle, but will be found closer to the need than the want. It’s important that we care enough to understand whether the person’s viewpoint is a need or a want. This will make a tremendous difference and will change the result of the compromise. In some situations, the side with the want can meet closer to the side with the

need and they can work toward the middle together as the situation changes. I read something once that said: “stay flexible, then you won’t get bent out of shape.” I found this saying an accurate description of how we should look at compromise. It’s important to be flexible enough to include the needs of the other person in our goals - to want the needs of someone else to be met. This goes beyond being fair, to being noble. We are choosing to put the needs of someone we care about above what we want. Morality is a wonderful attribute to have and can be exercised in the compromises we are willing to make. Is your flexibility governed by your wants or the cares of other’s needs?

PET TIPS Be careful with holiday decorations. Common Yuletide plants such as poinsettias, mistletoe, ivy, and holly berries can be poisonous, even fatal to your pet. • With everyone coming and going, watch out for open doors and sneaky pets. Ask guests to keep an eye out for pets under foot and remind them that sometimes your normally friendly dog or cat may be less willing to deal with enthusiastic children and rooms full of unfamiliar people. • Finalizing your holiday plans? Don't forget to book your pet into Riverside Kennels for boarding. Space is limited so don't wait any longer! • Riverside Kennels has a variety of novelty Holiday gift ideas for your four-legged friends. Stop by today and check out the selection. • Thinking of getting a dog or cat for someone this holiday? Pick-up a gift certificate and allow the recipient to choose a pet themselves! • Please remember that the changes and activity over the holidays can cause animal stress and anxiety. By taking proper precautions, you can help your pet enjoy the holiday season. • Although non-toxic, ingesting tinsel may cause choking, intestinal obstruction and a trip to the vet. Take appropriate precautions this holiday season and keep your pets safe. • Take your dog for frequent, short walks, rather than one long walk each day. This will reduce the time your animal's sensitive lungs and paws are exposed to the cold. • Make sure your dog is properly tagged before heading outside this winter. Dogs can loose their scent in snow and ice and easily become lost. More dogs are lost in the winter than during any other season. For more information call: Alberta Animal Services at 347-2388 or www.albertaanimalservices.ca •

The Chautauqua

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Horror-scope Aries: Your friends will have lots of advice on how to achieve your goals, you don't have any friends or goals, do you? Taurus: Planning ahead is the name of the game this week, not 'hiding from the boss,' and not 'being the town clown.' Gemini: Someone will be looking for your attention this week, where do you suggest they start looking? Cancer: This week, you'll find you've finally had enough and it's time to quit...quit being such a jerk. Leo: Your inclination towards the finer things in life is putting a strain on your finances and your meager mental capacity. Virgo: This week you must make every effort to let an old flame return to your life...if you want to go down in flames. Libra: This week try not to be all things to all people, there's just not enough to go around, and you don't have it. Scorpio: That sideline of yours could be a source of extra income. Take a flashlight, 'lock repair' is difficult in the dark. Sagittarius: A family member needs help this week, so be sure and stay out of the way and keep your mouth shut. Capricorn: A very important project requires your full attention, perhaps it's time for your annual 'off work sick week.' Aquarius: It will take a great deal of thought to get through a crisis, if your thoughts come up short - you have short thoughts. Pisces: It is important for you to work with others who get the job done and are not just there to goof around, like you.

ASK YOUR PHARMACIST! Written by Victoria Fulford Submitted by Trish Verveda Capping Cold Sores Call them the things that go bump in the light. Sun exposure is one of the primary triggers for cold sores, those blisters that form on the border of your lips and can last as long as three weeks. Cold sores are caused by a viral infection known as herpes simplex. Once acquired, the herpes simplex virus lies dormant in the body until your immune system is weakened and the virus reasserts itself, usually at the original site of infection. Cold sores frequently develop

when a person has a cold or fever, but they can also surface due to exposure to sun and wind, hormonal changes, and skin trauma such as surgery or dental extractions. Cold sores are contagious until the blisters have dried up and crusted over, so take care to wash your hands regularly. Herpes also flourishes when your health suffers, so avoid all those things

you know are bad for you: lack of sleep, overindulging in alcoholic beverages, smoking and stress. Your pharmacist can recommend a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher which is applied to the lips 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and may help to reduce the frequency of suninduced cold sores. Prescription medications are also available to help shorten the duration of a cold sore breakout.

Heart Health Tip of the Week How does your plate rate? A heart healthy meal means about twothirds of the food you eat is breads, cereals, grains, fruits and vegetables; the other third is milk products, meats/fish/poultry/eggs and other/extra foods. Heart of the Land, David Thompson Health Region & Alberta Heart Health Project

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WORLD ADVENTURER By Alan E. Johnson Inside the Kremlin A kremlin is a Russian town's fortified stronghold, and Moscow's was built in the 1150's with a low, wooden wall. It now features high red brick walls 2.25 km long, with Red Square on the eastern side. The Kremlin's power grew with that of Moscow's princes, and became the headquarters of Russia's churches in the 1320's. The "White Stone Kremlin" - which had limestone walls was built in the 1360's with almost the same boundaries of today. This lasted until 1475-1516, when an era of rebuilding was undertaken by Ivan the Great. Master builders from Pskov and Italy supervised the building of new walls and towers, many of which still stand. Even after Peter the Great shifted the capital to St. Petersburg, tsars were still

crowned here. Catherine the Great contemplated building a new, classical Kremlin in the 1770's, but she ran out of money. Napoleon's troops were making preparations to blow the place up real good, but were foiled by rain and the timely arrival of Russian soldiers. Hitler had planned to raze the entire city of Moscow from the face of the earth, but it was his fate (and that of his vile regime) to be consigned to oblivion. I contemplated my "assault" on the site from one of the most visible monuments to Russia's new capitalism, McDonald's. It sits in a trendy "mall" just across from the western wall, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Mogila neizvestnogo soldata). The remains contained inside are that of a soldier who died in December 1941 at Kilometre 41 of Leningradskoe shosse the nearest the Nazis came to Moscow.

The Tsar Bell (1735) Postcard courtesy of Alan Johnson

Stretching south from the tomb is the Alexandrovsky Garden, a pleasant little park, with a variety of fountains featuring characters from Grimm's Fairy Tales. The main visitor's entrance is the Kutafya Tower on the Manezhnaya ulitsa. It stands somewhat apart from the main walls, at the end of a long ramp over the park. It is the last survivor of a series outer bridge towers that once stood on this side of the Kremlin. There is a left-luggage office below where you must leave any large bags before entry. Tickets are good for entry, and you must pay for the sights inside you want to see separately. Walking up the ramp, I passed beneath the Trinity Gate Tower (Troitskaya bashnya), heading towards the Sobornaya ploshchad in the centre, where the main sights are located. The lane to the right (south) immediately inside the Trinity Gate Tower, runs between the 17th century Poteshney Palace (Poteshny dvorets) where Stalin lived, and a great glass monolith of a building, the 20th century Palace of Congresses. Looking north, I could see the 18th century Arsenal, which is ringed with 800 captured Napoleonic cannon. East of the Arsenal is the 18th century Senate (Senat), where the offices of the President are located, and the 1930's Supreme Soviet (Verkhovny Soviet). All of these buildings are off limits to

Friday, December 5, 2003 visitors, and there are plenty of guards to whistle down any trespassers. Grouped in the centre of the Kremlin are its chief glories, the cathedrals. The Assumption Cathedral has five golden helmet domes and four semicircular gables facing the square. This was the focal church of prerevolutionary Russia and burial place of most of the heads of the Russian Orthodox Church from the 1320's to 1700. In 1812, French troops used it as a stable and looted 295 kg of gold and five tonnes of silver, but much of it was recovered. Beside the western door of the Assumption Cathedral sits the Church of the Deposition of the Robe, which was built between 1484-6 as a private chapel. Just to the south is the Ivan the Great Bell Tower (Kolokolnya Ivana Velikogo), the Kremlin's tallest structure. It is visible from 30 km away, and before the 20th century, it was forbidden to build any higher in Moscow. In front of this cathedral are the Tsar Bell and the Tsar Cannon. The former is the world's largest bell, a 202 tonne monster that never rang. It was cast in the 1730's for the Empress Anna Ivanovna. As it was cooling off in a foundry casting pit, water being poured to cool the fires nearby came into contact with the bell, causing an 11 tonne chunk to fall off. The cannon was cast in 1586 for Fyodor I, whose portrait is on the barrel. The bore is 89 cm! The Archangel Cathedral is on the s q u a r e 's south-

eastern corner. It was formerly the coronation, wedding and burial church of the tsars. The tombs of all of Muscovy's rulers from the 1320's to the 1690's are here (except one: Boris Godunov). Ivan the Terrible lies here, but his tomb is out of sight behind a wall of icons, as are the tombs of two of his sons: Ivan (whom he killed), and Fyodor (who succeeded him). From Peter the Great onward, emperors and empresses were buried in St. Petersburg. The Annunciation C a t h e d r a l (Blagoveshchensky sobor) at the southwestern corner of the square has what are described as the "greatest icons by the greatest icon painter, Theophanes the Greek." Icons are depictions of saints and other characters from the Bible. Some of them are indeed quite beautiful, but the multitude that are on display in these and other churches can lessen a person's appreciation for what he is seeing. The one other sight to see in the Kremlin is the Armoury (Oruzheynaya palata), which houses a vast array of the treasures accumulated by the tsars. There are nine rooms: rooms 1 to 5 are upstairs, 6 to 9 downstairs. Room 3 has the renowned Easter eggs of precious metals and jewels by

the St. Petersburg jewelers Faberge. Room 6 contains thrones and royal regalia, including the 800 diamond throne of Tsar Alexey, the jewel-studded, sabletrimmed gold Cap of Monomakh, and the coronation dresses of 18th century empresses. Room 9 holds many coaches, including the sleigh that Empress Elizabeth rode from St. Petersburg to Moscow for her coronation. It was pulled by 23 horses at a time about 800 in all for the whole trip. Between the Armoury and the Annunciation Cathedral stretches the 700room Great Kremlin Palace (Bolshoy Kremlyovsky dvorets), built in the period from 1838 to 1849 as an imperial residence. It's now the official residence of the Russian president and is used for official state visits and receptions. It's not open to the public. Once I was finished seeing all these sights, my day in Moscow was just about done. I had planned to cap it off with a visit to the Moosehead Canadian Bar, but it had been closed and reopened as a milk bar! I had to settle for a steak at the American Bar and Grill. I made my way back to my hotel, and packed for the next (and next to last) destination on my round the world jaunt: Poland.

Friday, December 5, 2003

Harvest Time By J.P. DeZutter Continued… “I’ve eaten hours ago – and Henry says the old belt’s so frayed it could give out any minute!” “A cup of tea then – and a helping of poor Johnny’s favourite matrimonial cake – the kettle’s boiling.” “W-e-ll, alright – but Henry warned me not to hold him up during this dry fall weather.” After Lettie put the eggs away Madge set four small slices of cake and two black cups of tea on the round oak table; then sat down heavily, across from Lettie. “I got me a pile of work, cleaning off this garden.” “What’s happened to the man who rented it?” “He’s a shiftless one! Not once this summer did the guy spray poor Johnny’s trees like he promised!” “Like I said before – us farmers are always broke ‘til we get our crops off and some grain sold – so if you could…” “Yes, well – when poor Johnny was alive, there wasn’t a weed on the place. The poor old man would turn over in his lovely MountView grave – if he could see the quackgrass creeping in from the fence line.” “Like I said before – you should quit all this unnecessary work.” “Since they retired me as head steamstress for the CNR – I seen Johnny through a lot. After his first heart attack, he turned to me for my good care. Mind, we’re related

through marriage – and I was a lonely one after retiring – glad to have Johnny’s company. It gave me quite a turn – after I’d spent a good bit of my savings on the sick lad – and none of his blood relatives came near. Not one saw him buried or sent money to pay his expenses. They held poor Johnny’s likin’ for the good life against him.” “You told me awhile back you were moving in with your niece.” “Yes, well – she wants to borrow a thousand dollars! On top of that, she lives with an old crank, and his and her kids fight like hell. I need to be where it’s quiet!” With trained eyes of a fortune teller, Lettie studied the tea leaves at the bottom of her cup. “I see a powerful man standing in a wheat field. He’s holding a broken belt in his greasy hands, while his angry gray eyes search the road for sight of a mustard colored station wagon herded between two fences by a pint-sized woman named Lettie!” “It’s this same niece that’s not speaking to me now – that told me about this place. And I was tickled clear to my foundation to have a chance of settling where there’s no beverage room – even though it cost me good money to put these grounds in shape – cause poor Johnny’s doctor ordered him to leave the booze alone.” “Madge, if it’s a large bill that’s holding you back – I can go to the store and have it changed.”

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With surprising swiftness, Madge scooped the antique teapot from its pad on the lace table cloth, and filled Lettie’s cup to the brim. “Do have more cake, Lettie. Poor Johnny liked his good tea six times a day.” Lettie sipped the bitter tea. “Henry didn’t have a dollar in his pocket – and I’ll need cash to buy that new belt. They just won’t charge to strangers now-adays.” “Yes, well – the old lad down below the bank ain’t a bad guy – except, I got to grease his palm for every little chore he does. But that wrinkled potato he’s got for a Mrs. is a painted barrel of poison. The bossy think never stopped harping about poor Johnny and me going to an Old Folks Home, instead of spending our money on this old shack, as she calls it. It’s like his niece said to me, ‘I could see Uncle Johnny going in a place like that if he didn’t have your good care, but as long as you can draw

a breath, Aunt Madge, I know you won’t pay someone else to look after him!’” “Almost a month ago, you said you were going to spend some time with his niece, and get those rotten stubs out, and some new teeth in.” “Yes, well – Judy is a lovely girl, but she’s married to a

service man, and they do move about a lot.” “You owe me a dollar-fifty for last week and…” “The bossy thing was always quarrelling with poor Johnny over the spruce dividing our lots – said the trees spoiled her view. Even claimed the su rv e yo r s w e re

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wrong and that she had the right to cut them down.” “The only thing Henry and I fight about is money!” Continued next paper…

Alix Hotel

NEW YEARS EVE GALA!

Come Support Our 4th Annual

ALIX HOTEL invites ALL to come and bring in the New Year Dec. 31st in the local tavern

Santas Anonymous Fundraiser Friday, Dec. 12 All proceeds from Draws to Santas Anonymous & the Food Bank! Help us support this very worthy cause Lots of prizes! Fun for all!

LIVE MUSIC ~ Roast Beef Meal ~ PARTY FAVORS ~ FREE CHAMPAYNE at midnight ~ COURTESY VAN available within a 10 mile radius All of the above for a cover charge of $15.00 PER PERSON Prizes drawn at random throughout the evening X’mas Hours X’mas Eve close at 7:00 pm X’mas Day Closed New Years Eve Party, regular hours New Years Day Closed

Seasons Greetings to all from Roberta & Staff of the Alix Hotel

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The Chautauqua

Friday, December 5, 2003

VILLAGE OF ALIX COUNCIL MINUTES

Friday, December 5, 2003

JUDY GORDON, MLA LACOMBE-STETTLER Auto Insurance Reforms Much has been reported about the government's plan to bring in fair and affordable auto insurance premiums, and I'd like to expose the myths and highlight the facts about both the policy and the implementation plan. Changes to the auto insurance system proposed by the government will see mandatory third-party liability insurance available to all drivers at rates comparable to other western provinces. The rates will vary based on actual driving experience. Risk factors such as age, sex and marital status will no longer affect premiums. Drivers with clean driving records will earn discounts, and drivers with at-fault collisions and driving convictions will be assessed surcharges. Based on the current proposals, about 80 per cent of Albertans would see reduced premiums, and none would see increases. Accident benefits for medical costs (for both drivers who are and who are not at fault in the collision) will increase from $10,000 to $50,000. New regulations will also ensure pre-authorized payment by insurers for treatment required under new medical protocols, which will be developed by a team of experts in the field. Injured parties will recover damages through the courts as they do today. No one will be denied access to the courts. All injured persons will be able to recover medical costs, lost income, and any out-of-pocket expenses. In addition, all injured persons will also still be able to recover additional sums for pain and suffering. For persons with minor injuries that have resolved within a reasonable time, additional awards for pain and suffering will be limited to $4,000. The definition of "minor injuries" will be developed in consultation with lawyers, health care providers, insurers and representatives of injured people. Certain self-interest groups are perpetuating a number of myths. Contrary to what you may have been led to believe, nothing in the proposal is retroactive. Any claims currently under discussion or any new claims resulting from collisions that happen before the implementation date are unaffected. Some have suggested long-term continuing injuries would be affected by the cap. This is absolutely false. The proposal clearly says that only injuries affected by a limit on awards for pain and suffering are minor strains and sprains. On the premium side, it has been suggested that any cost savings resulting from the changes would be gobbled up by the insurance companies. Again, pure myth. The new rate-

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setting board will be given the legislative authority to set maximum premiums that reflect cost savings and will be required to pass cost savings from this or other initiatives on to consumers. Some have suggested we solve the problem by letting Saskatchewan or B.C. government insurance operate in Alberta. The fact is, without the monopoly position they enjoy in their provinces, neither could succeed. While our proposal would see Alberta rates slightly higher than those in our neighbouring provinces for riskier drivers such as young males, thousands of Albertans with long-standing safe driving records would continue to enjoy rates lower than those in B.C. and Saskatchewan. If you would like to know more about the proposed new model, please refer to the information on the government website: www.autoinsurance.gov.ab.ca. If you have any questions or comments regarding any issue, please call my Constituency Office at 782-7725 or my Legislature Office at 427-1807. If you are calling long-distance to provincial government offices, dial the Government Rite Number 310-0000 and then enter the seven digit telephone number to be connected tollfree.

Mirror School News By Rod Phillips Halloween led right into our Remembrance Day Assembly and I must say, the kids were absolutely fantastic. Thanks to Mr. John Carlyle for his playing of “The Last Post.” It was a super job and much appreciated by all who were there to hear. Thanks also to Mrs. Clara Klinck for her thoughts, as a young girl, about the start of World War II and some of her memories during the time of war. Once again, the members of the Mirror community stepped forward to help us put forth a positive and meaningful event. November also saw a great whitening effect upon Mirror as that blanket of snow arrived to say that winter was fast approaching. With winter also comes the cold weather and we hope that you ensure that your child (ren) will wear the appropriate clothing to school. There has been an awful cold and flu bug going around and we would certainly like for it not to rear its ugly head in our little school. November saw our first report card come out and followed by our Parent/Teacher Interviews. This was an excellent opportunity for many of you to come in and see first hand how your child(ren) is doing in class. They are always quite interesting and often quite eventful, but remember, they are not there to pass judgement but rather, to use as a way to see how things are going and to get some ideas as to how to improve the student’s skills, if necessary. It was nice to see so many of you out but it is our goal to have all parents come out

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Mystique GIFTS & VIDEOS A Unique Gift Shop

Christmas is approaching quickly We have some excellent gift ideas and gift certificates Place your Xmas Centerpiece orders in now to avoid disappointment 4914 - 50 St., Alix, AB 403-747-3747 Mon - Wed 12 to 8, Thurs - Sat 12 to 9 Sun 2 to 8

and join with us as we celebrate the successes of our students. It is also a time in which we will be bidding adieu to Mrs. Klassen, our Kindergarten teacher. She will be leaving us to take on a Kindergarten teaching position at Ponoka Elementary School. It is with much regret that we say goodbye, but we all wish her much success in her future. In her place, we are very fortunate to have another outstanding teacher take over the position. Mrs. Leslies Esteves comes to us from Rimbey and I’m sure her energy and enthusiasm will be a very welcome asset. Our Students’ Union has been busy and helped with a number of events. Thanks go out to them for organizing and setting up/ taking down for the assemblies as well as for hosting our spirit day, Red Day. The Grade 7/8 class was also able to get their second edition of the Mirror Reflection newspaper out. It was handy to have the 100th birthday celebration of the London Daily Mirror newspaper hosted by our Mirror Senior Citizens, as it allowed several of the students to see how journalists and photographers actually work to get their stories and pictures. Of course, the birthday cake we were treated to was a real bonus. Please remember that even though December is a short month, in terms of school calendar, there will still be the buzz of excitement in the air. Don’t forget our Christmas Luncheon on the 15th (with our Awards Assembly to follow) and our Christmas concert on the 18th. They should both be lots of fun and a great year for us to bring Christmas to the hearts of all those of Mirror. Thanks again go out to all of you for your efforts in making our school the positive learning environment it is. We do appreciate your attendance at our events and the time and effort a great many of you put in volunteering for many of our activities. As a school, we may be small but we truly have a strong and viable team atmosphere. I am overjoyed with the effort and positive attitude promoted by all those associated with Mirror School. The efforts all of you put forth make me truly proud to be the Principal of this remarkable little school.

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The Chautauqua

Friday, December 5, 2003

DECEMBER 2003 SUN. ALIX BOTTLE DEPOT Mon., Tues., Wed. 11:00 to 5:00 p.m., Sat. 11:00 - 4:30 p.m. 747-2794

7

MON.

1

TUES.

2

WED.

3

Council Meeting

9

Jody Dewald

10 Kyle Regehr Drop-In Birthday 2:30 Time for Tots 10:00 am @ E-Free Church

14

15

16

Chamber of Commerce noon @ United Church Council Meeting

FRI.

4

Time for Tots 10:00 am @ E-Free Church

8

THURS.

17

5

6

Colton Menage WI Senior’s Christmas Dinner @ ACH @ noon

11

WI meets 1:30 pm Irene Guynup 747-2794

SAT.

PAPER DAY!

12

Innitiation Alix vs Lacombe 10 - 11:30 am Novice Alix vs Blackfalds 11:45-1:15 pm

13 Innitiation Alix vs Delburne 10 - 11:30 am Novice Alix vs Clive 11:45-1:15 pm Midget Alix vs Red Deer Lodge 4:15 - 6:45

Paper Deadline

Lions Club

18

19

Time for Tots 10:00 am @ E-Free Church

20 Midget Alix vs Red Deer Kings 4:15 - 6:45

PAPER DAY!

School Christmas Concert 7:00 pm

21

22

Jean Bargholz Talayna Gartner

23 Jonah Barclay

24

29

30

26

Darren Dewald Brenda Brayford

Christmas Eve

28

25

31

David Dewald Marilyn & Ken Sutley

New Year’s Eve!

27

Boxing Day Merry Christmas!

Tanya Bach Colby Barclay

Paper Deadline

Transfer Station Hours Thurs., Fri., & Sat. 10:00 - 6:00

Floor Curling Tuesdays 7:30 pm ACH

Medical Clinic Monday & Wednesdays 9:30 - noon Appointments: 747-2130

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Alix Arena Tuesdays Thursdays Fridays Sundays

3:30 - 4:45 3:30 - 4:45 4:30 - 8:30 11:00-1:30 2:00 - 4:30

Shinny hockey Public skating Shinny hockey Shinny hockey Public skating

Anyone interested in ice time for Christmas parties or Family skates phone 391-8849.