December 2010 - Ramsay Community Association

www.ramsaycommunity.ab.ca 


December 2010 - January 2011 

Circulation 1250 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! 

Printed on recycled paper PHOTO: “Ramsay Rink Ramp Reno” 

Christmas Events! 

In & Around Ramsay 

Arts & Crafts Show 

Gallery Action 

CUT OFF! 

From the Zoo 

Guides! 

Make a Pile 

NEXT General Meeting 

Tuesday December 7 at 7pm 

NEW ALDERMAN 

Message 

R a m s ay C o m m u n i t y A s s o c i at i o n • 11 3 6 – 8 t h S t r e e t S E , C a l g a r y, A B T 2 G 2 Z 7 • 4 0 3 - 2 6 5 - 4 8 9 8

Tisha McKenna 

Ramsay Real Estate Update 

www.findyourhomeincalgary.ca 

www.findyourhomeincalgary.ca 

Feel free to contact 

me any time with 

your real estate 

questions. 

Cell: (403) 869.9730 

Happy Holidays 

and wishing you a 

Happy and 

Successful 2011!!! 

Waiting on Trisha McKenna’s ad 

RAMSAY STATS 

11 out of 16 of 

the Ramsay Listings 

sold in the 

last 60 days. 

The average sale 

price in this 

period was 

$405,822.00 

The average days 

on market in 

Ramsay is 60 days, 

and fetched 95% 

of asking price 

RAMSAY $359,900.00 

SOLD 

Stanley Park $669.000 

Address: 1034 18 AV SE 

MLS # C3442529 4 1 

Beautiful 4 bed character home on 

quiet one-way street in Ramsay. 

Sunny front porch perfect for enjoying 

the sun all day. Bright & comfortable 

Living room with original 

stained glass window ... 

4 2 

unique and interesting home was designed 

by an architect, and then custom-built 

by Silverfern Construction using 

technology developed in a research 

program at the U of Sask, Saskatoon. 

It was part of a Government program 

leading into the R-2000 house, and 

later green-technology housing. Its ef-

Ramsay Community Association & Hall 

Board of Directors & Community Chairs 

1136 - 8th St SE T2G 2Z7• T: 403.265.4898 • F: 403.265.4858 

Position Name Contact Info 

President Lexie 

Shmyr 

president@ramsaycommunity.ab.ca 

Past President Brad Kuhne 403-542-3587 

Vice President – 

External 

Art Matsui vpexternal@ 

ramsaycommunity.ab.ca 

Vice President – 

Internal 

Josie Casale vpinternal@ 


Treasurer Vacant treasurer@ 


Secretary Vacant secretary@ 


2 yr Member Wendy 

McCrae 

wendy@ramsaycommunity. 

ab.ca 

2 yr Member/ 

Traffic 

Taras 

Semeniuk 

traffic@ramsaycommunity. 

ab.ca 

2 yr Member At 

Large 

Jenny 

Jensen 

jenny@ramsaycommunity. 

ab.ca 


Large 

Catherine 

Cartmill 


Large 

Adele 

Sanoy 

Hall Manager Gisele Ruel hallmanager@ 


Winter Sports Vacant 

Casino Pat Baker bakerpals@shaw.ca 

Beautification Brenda brenda.japp@gov.ab.ca 

Japp 

Ramsay School 

Liaison 

Jenny 

Jensen 

403-248-9335 

ramsayschool@hotmail.com 

WebMaster Art Matsui webmaster@ 


Website 


Newsletter 

Editor 

Pam Dalsin news@ramsaycommunity. 

ab.ca 

Newsletter 

Advertising 

Josie Casale advertising@ 


Newsletter 

Delivery 

Newsletter 

Layout 

Cor Koster 403-612-4729 

sharoncornelis@shaw.ca 

Fred Holliss 403-815-3733 

fred@holliss.ca 

Anyone above can be contacted by leaving a message at the 

Community Hall at 403-265-4898. 

General Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month 

at the Hall. Elections are held in October. 

Complaints about Lilydale smells: 

• City of Calgary 311 

• Alberta Environment 1800-222-6514 

• Calgary Health Region 403-943-8060 

Police Contacts • Emergency: 911 

If you see crimes in the area, please contact the police by 

phone at 403-266-1234 or : pol3372@calgarypolice.ca 

Community liaison officer: Const. Carlee Bojarski 403-567-6146 

Drug Hotline 403-206-8100 leave msg. 

Newsletter Contributions 

Any community member is welcome to contribute to this 

newsletter. The deadline for submissions for each upcoming 

month’s issue is the 15 th of the preceding month. Please email 

your contributions, comments, and articles to: 

news@ramsaycommunity.ab.ca or drop it off the Hall. 

DISCLAimer: Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily 

those of the Ramsay Community Association. 

COMMUNITY 

LASSIFIEDS 

Lantern Youth Group 

collecting bottles for their 

fundraiser. The youth are 

saving up to attend a big 

event in Edmonton. We can 

pick them up or you can 

drop them off at the Church 

1401 10 Ave SE. Please call 

403-263-0267 for pick up 

requests. Feel free to call us 

if you have youth friendly 

jobs you need help with. 

Thank you. 

The Lantern Community 

Church Inglewood invites 

you to its annual Candle 

Light Service on the evening 

of December 19. Enjoy a 

thoughtful drama and help 

our music team raise the 

roof. It’s a relaxed Sunday 

COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP 

Contact Lexie Shmyr at 403-265-4898 

You are the community – Your voice is important! 

Annual Membership allows you to: Participate in Community Sports • Voice your concerns to the Civic 

Government • Beautify our Community 

$10 Family • $8 Single • $6 Senior, Disabled, Associate 

Please cut out this form and mail with your cheque or money order to: 

Ramsay Community Association, 1136 – 8th Street SE, Calgary, AB, T2G 2Z7 

Ramsay Community Membership Form 

Family Name(s): _________________________________________________________ 

Your Name: __________________________Spouse’s Name:____________________ 

Address: _______________________________________________________________ 

Postal Code: __________________________ Telephone: ________________________ 

Email: _________________________________________________________________ 

Children: 

1. _______________________________________ Age: _________ 

2. _______________________________________ Age: _________ 

3. _______________________________________ Age: _________ 

I would like to become involved with: 

___ Board of Directors ___ History ___ Beautification ___ Civic Affairs 

___ Membership ___ Casino ___ Sports ___ Technology 

___ Newsletter ___ Safety ___ Traffic ___ As required 

Adve r t i se Wi t h Us! 

Ramsay News is the perfect way to communicate with your 

neighbours! The Ramsay News is a non-profit newsletter offered 

free of charge to the community each month. With a circulation of 

1200, the Ramsay News is a fun and affordable way to advertise 

your business. 

Submission deadline is the 10 th of the month. 

• Email us at advertising@ramsaycommunity.ab.ca 

night affair with hot apple 

cider to share with local folks 

in the 100-year-old building 

on 1401-10th Ave. Festivities 

begin at 6:30ish. 

Ramsay Arts & Crafts 

Sale Dec 5th, 12-4pm. 

With Christmas creeping 

up, this sale will allow you 

to unwind and wrap up any 

loose ties for those ‘hard to 

buy’ for. There will be loads 

of handmade art (including 

photography, glass and 

jewelry), clothes (for all 

sizes), kids creations, teas 

and fabulous treats! For 

table bookings call nik @ 

403.605.1074 

Stone sculptor looking to 

rent insulated garage. Will 

pay up to $300/month. Dave 

587-777-7731. 

Ad size 1 mo. 5 mo. 10 mo. 

business card $45 $210 $400 

¼ page $75 $350 $650 

½ page $100 $475 $900 

Full page $180 $875 $1600 

Flyer inserts No longer available 

* special rates may apply for designated pages 

Ramsay News page 3

Jonathan Denis, M.L.A. 

Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs 

Calgary Egmont Constituency 

Our Government is committed to supporting victims of crime, 

particularly the most vulnerable among us – our children. 

• The Child Advocacy Centres will make a significant contribution 

by helping young victims and witnesses of crimes 

while reducing trauma so that they are better able to provide 

strong evidence that can lead to more convictions and 

appropriate sentences. 

• This investment will assist in making it easier for children’s 

voices to be heard throughout the criminal justice system. 

• This initiative builds on 2007’s ‘Federal Victims Strategy’; 

our Government’s $52 million plan to respond to the needs 

of Canadians victimized by crime. 

• We have also just introduced legislation that will amend the 

Criminal Code to provide tougher mandatory prison sentences 

for those who commit sexual offences against children 

and youths. 

• Our Government is committed to protecting children 

against sexual exploitation by ensuring that the punishment 

imposed in child sexual abuse cases better reflects the 

extremely serious nature of these heinous crimes, giving victims 

– not criminals –a stronger voice in the criminal justice 

system. 

#10, 8318 Fairmount Dr. S.E., T2H 0Y8 

640-1363, 640-2970 (f) 

Edmonton - toll free - 310-0000 and key in 780-644-8954 

calgary.egmont @assembly.ab.ca 

Visit www.ramsaycommunity.ab.ca 


Girl Guides 

Kim Firmston 

The Girl Guides Make a VERY Big Leaf Pile 

The Girl Guides have been at it again, helping out and taking 

part. In October they tackled the leaves surrounding the 

Inglewood Community Centre, which provides the Sparks, 

Brownies and Pathfinders a place to meet free of charge. The 

girls set out to build the world’s biggest leaf pile. While it is 

unclear whether they achieved this goal, they did make one 

heck of a pile of leaves and filled around one hundred bags. 

And it wasn’t just the girls, some neighborhood kids dropped 

by to take part as well as a whole load of parents and leaders. 

After that the girls ended with a big party and a well deserved 

play at the park. Thanks to everyone that came out. 

In our units, we’ve also been busy. The Sparks just had their 

enrollment and are now ready to do some program work. 

The Brownies are working on learning about staying fit, eating 

healthy and keeping their bodies strong. They went to 

the Police Interpretive Centre to learn how to protect themselves. 

The Guides have already completed their Travelers and 

Outdoors in the City badges. The Pathfinders are working on 

preparations for the Christmas dinner and will be changing 

Christmas light bulbs for the Lions. And all the units went on 

a very scary Inglewood Ghost tour for some Halloween fun. 

Come January we will be going to camp and I’ve already heard 

rumors that some of our girls are looking forward to doing 

some winter tenting again. 

If you are interested in joining up, registration is on going 

and new leaders are always welcome. Just call Kim Firmston 

403-237-6837. 

403-262-4663 1139 9th Ave SE 

Cut Off From The Zoo 

Kim Firmston 

This winter, from October to March, the zoo has decided 

to close the West gate. By doing this they will save $30,000 

they would have spent on snow removal and gate staffing and 

instead putting the money into other things such as infrastructure. 

They claim there was very little use of the West gate 

during the fall and winter season and only a half a percent of 

members live in the nearby communities. 

My family and I are greatly impacted by this move. As a 

family whose main mode of transportation is walking, this 

cuts us off from the zoo. And while, yes, we could take the bus 

downtown and then the train back up, it seems silly to spend 

a half hour on transit when the zoo is only a ten minute walk 

away. We’re not the only ones who are upset. Our neighbor, 

who owns a car, has said that she would never drive to the zoo 

and can no longer see the point of owning a zoo membership 

if she can’t get in by walking. 

I see the zoo’s point of saving money. If they really aren’t 

having many people coming in by the West entrance in the 

winter, then closing the gate makes sense. But is it just during 

the week that there is a major slow down? And if so, could 

the gate be opened for just the weekends? Only the gate, 

mind you, people with cars could still drive to the other side. 

Though this does cause the problem of getting back from the 

zoo which is no straightforward matter either. 

I suggested to the zoo that walkers with memberships be 

allowed to access the zoo via the security gate. Unfortunately, 

due to the driveway being designed for car traffic, as well as 

snow and ice removal for pedestrians and the possible problem 

of people trying to park in the already overfull administration 

parking lot, the idea was shot down. 

Access aside, I think the main issue I have with this closure 

is the lack of respect the zoo has shown Inglewood and Ramsay 

by not informing us of the gate closure. The zoo could have 

easily put an article in the newsletter explaining what was happening 

and why. Instead, my family and I found out by having 

our zoo visit end before it started at the locked West gate. 

So, what to do? The shoulder seasons and winter are our 

family’s favorite time to visit the zoo. Do we give in and 

take transit? Hike the over three kilometers to the main zoo 

entrance? Walk over to Bridgeland station and pay to go one 

stop? Or do we let our memberships expire and not renew 

them? I’ll miss the zoo if I stop going but is the added hassle 

worth my time? I’m still not sure what to do. In the meantime 

perhaps, if there is enough people in the communities of 

Inglewood and Ramsay who oppose the decision to close this 

gate, maybe some kind of compromise can be made. 

Purveyors of Fine Wine, Spirits, & Ale 


Poppy Fund 

Theatre Classes for Kids 

Calgary’s new Mayor, Naheed Nenshi and Lee Richardson, 

MP at the kickoff of the Calgary Poppy Fund 

Looking for something fun and active to keep you busy during 

the cold winter months? 

Calgary Young People’s Theatre offers a variety of unique 

and exciting drama classes for kids ages 4-17. 

Check out www.cypt.ca or email ad@cypt.ca or call 403- 

230-2664 for more information. 

Artpoint 

December 3rd through to the 27th, 2010: 

The Calgary Poppy Fund / Veteran’s Food Bank was created to 

assist needy veterans, their widows and dependents with medical, 

shelter, food and dental care, and to remind Calgarians of 

the sacrifices that our Veterans have made so that we can enjoy 

the freedom we have today. Among those in attendance at the 

day’s events were; Alberta’s Lt. Governor, the Honourable Don 

Ethell, Calgary’s new Mayor, Naheed Nenshi, Colonel Pat 

Strogan, Mr. George Bittman, Chief Administrative Officer- 

Calgary Poppy Fund, MLA Art Johnston, Lee Richardson, MP 

for Calgary Centre, and 50 WW11 & Korean Vets. To donate 

to the fund visit: www.calgarypoppyfund.com. 

Printthings Members Show and Sale! 

Kick off the Holiday Party Season with A/P’s 2010 Season’s 

Printthings Festival! 

In conjunction with our annual Members’ Show and Sale, 

this a great opportunity to see what our Alberta Printmakers’ 

Society members have been working on. Purchase work created 

by local artists, all while supporting local arts and culture. In 

addition there will be plenty of gift items available, including 

hand-printed t-shirts, tote bags, greeting cards and more, just 

in time for Christmas! Admission to the exhibition is free and 

all are welcome. 

Exhibition events will include: 

· Printmaking demos 

· Handmade greeting card exchange 

· Members’ Show and Sale Exhibition 

· Bake sale goodies and liquor by donation 

· Fibre arts sale 

· Print sale …. and more!! 

Nov. 17 - Dec. 18, 2010, Artist Proof Gallery, 2010F 11 St. SE 

403-287-1056 www.albertaprintmakers.ca. Gallery hours are 

Wed. through Sat. from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Admission is free 

and all are welcome. 

Christie Kirchne, Director, the Alberta Printmakers’ Society 

and Artist Proof Gallery 403-287-1056 

aprint1@telus.net 

Opening Event Friday, December 3rd from 5 to 9 pm. 

Main Gallery - 

Alison Philpotts, “Outer Beauty”. New, acrylic paintings. 

Upstairs Salon – 

Group Exhibit 

Red Gallery - 

Krystyna Laycraft, “Celebration of Art & Life”, recent photographs; 

Connie Pike, “Texture & Clay”. 

procratination is not for amateurs 

they have amacrastination 

and mess about at entry level regional fairs 

with “how not to get to work on time” clinics 

the pros go straight to the nationals 

and if they do well, on to the global scene 

why, you ask yourself, have I not seen this on tv 

isn’t it obvious – the professional crastinators 

are still in training, honing their crastinate skills 

because despite the name 

learning to crastinate is not an innate thing 

and requires long, hard hours of practice 

avoidance behaviours doesn’t come naturally 

& can only be taught to the already talented 

the crastinator nationals haven’t launched yet 

because we’re still at home procrastinating 

403-815-3733 

fred@holliss.ca 

web design print 

remember, recycling is blue, garbage is black 


Civic Affairs 

Art Matsui, Chairman 

Planning activity in November: 

DP2010-3210 Stampede Expansion Zone 3. 

Civic Affairs had applied to appeal the approval of the 

Development Permit DP2010-3210 and the appeal was 

scheduled for October 21. At that time it was pointed out 

that there was information missing from the SDAB package 

and the appeal was adjourned until November 19. Thanks 

to all who wrote letters of support for our appeal to the 

Subdivision Appeal Board (SDAB) Due to newsletter deadline 

constraints please see www.ramsaycommunity.ab.ca/ 

civic/Stampede.html for the latest news and to see the issues 

that caused us to appeal. 

Lilydale. 

The Civic Affairs chair was copied on a letter of complaint 

from an alarmed Ramsay resident about chain link fencing 

being installed at Lilydale that expanded their yard towards 

the CP rails. Since Lilydale’s landuse is of the Legal Nonconforming 

status (sometimes called grandfathered) they 

are not allowed to expand their operations or add on to 

their building. The resident also complained about bylaw 

infractions in the yards of the houses that Lilydale owns in 

the triangle south of the park. The chair walked over and 

met with Bill Bruce head of Bylaw Services at his office 

across from Lilydale. Bill was given a copy of the letter 

and has promised that they will investigate and make sure 

that Lilydale is compliant with the bylaws. The fence was 

referred by the chair to Development Enforcement and they 

are investigating. He has also asked them to investigate the 

parking lot on Hurst Road and the use of residential property 

for commercial purposes. More information on Lilydale 

at http://ramsaycommunity.ab.ca/lilydale_news.html 

The Civic Affairs Committee welcomes new members. Contact the 

Chairman at vpexternal@ramsaycommunity.ab.ca for details of 

the Civic Affairs Terms of Reference, Volunteer Code of Conduct 

and reading list of planning documents of record. The community 

of Ramsay welcomes sustainable development that respects the history 

and emerging character of the neighbourhood, complies with 

the Area Redevelopment Plan and Bylaws, and will be a benefit 

to the people who live here. 

Otters & Timberwolves News 

Rick Ryan 

Here we are 2 months into the year and slowly 

the Otters are coming together. A dozen 5 to 7 

year olds can be a challenge. I was a teacher in 

my first career and this gang is keeping me on my toes. All the 

same we had fun with the halloween party and they look sharp 

in their new uniforms. Most of the parents haven’t sewed on 

badges before and I had to put down one glue gun rebellion. 

And I wonder where the kids get it from!! 

This past week they made a craft for Rememberence day 

and took it to the Cenotaph. Next week they have a visit 

planned to the Aero Space Museum with the Timberwolves. 

Their year is planned out until Christmas complete with a trip 

to cut down Christmas trees and a visit to the chocolate shop 

to make Christmas goodies. 

The Timberwolves, our 8 to 10 year gang, has been making 

soapbox derby carts and racing them up and down 8th Ave! 

No one lost an eye but there was a little road rash. They have 

been busy earning badges. They went to Battalion Ridge for 

their Rememberance service. If you haven’t been there it is a 

great place for kids to celebrate the day and learn about the 

horrors of war without having to stand for what seems like 

eternity at a Cenotaph. They are off to camp in a week. The 

theme is Indians with all kinds of crafts, games, native food, 

building tents and whatever else we can think of before we get 

there. Rick Ryan, 403-278-2547 


AttiCAt blown-in wool insulAtion 

$35 99 /bag 

reg. $37.99 

rentals 

available 

Insulate like the pros - it’s easy as 1,2,3! 

Number of bags you need 

1. Calculate your insulation needs (using our insulation calculator) 

to insulate your attic 

2. Estimate the time and supplies you will need 

3. Get your bags of AttiCat Expanding Blown-in Insulation and head over to the machine rental department 

Star Building Materials – Calgary 

2345 Alyth Road S. E. 

(Blackfoot Trail and Alyth Road) 

Tel: (403) 720-0010 

StorE HourS: 

7 AM - 5 pM Monday to Friday 

8 AM - 4 pM Saturday 

insulation calculator 

Inches of insulation you 

need to add to your attic 

Multiply by the total square 

footage of your attic 

Divide this total by 750 

x 

= 

÷ 

= 

750 

inches 

see our 

new showrooM 

ft 2 

bags 

Visit our renovated showroom for a bigger 

display of interior doors, moldings, and door 

and bath hardware! 

SlAB DoorS from $39 95 

Bi-FolD DoorS from $48 95 

I 

1 

R 

$ 

#411 MDF 

CASing 3” 

.89¢ 

reg. $1.57 lf 

#412 MDF 

CASing 4-1/4” 

.99¢ 

reg. $1.19 lf 

#423 MDF 

CASing 3” 

.79¢ 

reg. .99¢ lf 

#425 MDF 

BASE 4” 

.99¢ 

reg. $1.12 lf 

#5000 MDF 

ArCHitrAVE 3-3/4” 

$1.75 

reg. $2.09 lf 

Star reserves the right to limit quantities. Star tries to be as accurate as possible in each and every ad. Products change regularly so the item shown in the ad may not be exactly the item we have for sale but 

we work hard to ensure it is of equal value/performance. We reserve the right to make changes and corrections as required. All advertised products will be made available in suitable quantities based on projected 

sales volumes, except in circumstances beyond our control. All prices are cash and carry and taxes are extra. Sale prices cannot be combined with other promotional offers unless expressly stated as being eligible. 

If you are not satisfied with your purchase please talk with us and we will do everything within reason to make it right. 

www.starbuildingcalgary.ca

expert help, built riGht in 

Prices in effect until november 30, 2010 

Get to know your neiGhbours! 

Star Building Materials has been in the neighbourhood for 5 years, but you may not have had 

the time to get to know us. We are different from other big box building supply locations. 

Our building experts have been with us for many years and are here to help you plan, budget and 

design your project, find the best materials and tools, and offer experienced advice as you build that 

dream deck, fabulous fence or grand garage. 

At StAr our ExpErt HElp iS Built rigHt in! 

eCo 

CoAt 

nterior / Exterior Paint 

4 colors in stock 

ecycled latex paint 

31 49 / 10 L 

reg. $34.99 

2x2 bArriCAde 

subfloor 

$6 49 each 

The first step to warm 

comfortable basement flooring 

is Barricade modular subfloor. 

The insulated subfloor panel 

system that is specifically 

designed to cover concrete floors 

and provide warmth from real 

insulation. 

SKU # 45200100 

reg. $6.97 

20% 

off 

10% 

to 

40% 

off 

While Qty lasts 

disContinued 

weiser loCksets 

20% off all in-stock Weiser Locksets 

hitAChi power tools 

Star Building Materials – Calgary 

2345 Alyth Road S. E. (Blackfoot Trail and Alyth Road) Calgary, Alberta T2G 5T8 Tel: (403) 720-0010 Toll Free: 1-866-626-0010 Fax: (403) 720-0085

Cold weather 

safety 

Alberta Health Services EMS responds to many cold weather related emergencies every 

winter. Simple actions such as dressing appropriately and anticipating sudden weather 

changes can help keep you both warm and safe this season. And don’t forget to wear a 

toque – a significant percentage of body heat lost escapes from the top of your head! 

Frostnip 

• Frostnip occurs when skin is 

extremely cold, but not frozen. It 

commonly affects the ears, nose, 

cheeks, fingers and toes. 

• The skin appears red but also 

turns to white when pressed. It 

may feel numb to the touch. 

• When treated promptly, frostnipped 

skin will heal without 

complication. 

• Gently re-warming the affected 

area in a warm environment is 

advised. 

Frostbite 

• Frostbite is when skin becomes 

so cold, the skin and underlying 

tissue freeze completely. 

• It may look white and waxy and 

will feel hard to the touch. 

• Treatment begins with removal 

from the cold environment and 

placing the affected area in 

warm, not hot, water (about 

41°C) until re-warmed. 

• Seek further medical attention as 

required. 

Hypothermia 

• Hypothermia is abnormally low body temperature (less than 34°C as compared to 

normal body temperature of about 37°C). 

• People suffering hypothermia may act inappropriately with uncharacteristic 

stumbling, mumbling, and fumbling, as their body temperature continues to lower. 

• Early recognition and prompt medical attention is crucial. Left untreated, 

hypothermia may progress to coma and death. 

• Call 9-1-1. Don’t forget to protect yourself from the factors that originally lead to 

the patient’s situation. 

• Gentle re-warming should start as quickly as possible including: removal of wet or 

constrictive clothing, covering with blankets or sleeping bags, and protecting the 

patient from further heat loss (wind, moisture and contact with cold surfaces).

Message from Gian-Carlo Carra 

I want to warmly thank Ramsay for the serious love you gave 

me in the in the historic October 18, 2010 Calgary Municipal 

Election – the support I received from from my Ramsay 

neighbours was essential to the fairly tight win we pulled off. 

I can’t really describe how honored I feel to be your Alderman 

and I want to reaffirm my pledge to continue the work I’ve 

been doing for the past decade, albeit now bolstered with 

more power but tempered with broader responsibility. It is my 

intention to publish an article in the Ramsay Newsletter every 

month discussing the issues confronting the City, Ward 9, and 

specifically Ramsay that I’ll be overseeing as your representative. 

This will be in addition to monthly representation by me 

(or from my office) at Community Association meetings, as 

well as dedicated work from my Aldermanic Team (Executive 

Assistant Jacqueline Brown, and Community Assistant Lindsay 

Luhnau). I am enthusiastic in my conviction that circumstances 

(and the voters of Calgary) have provided us with an amazing 

opportunity to achieve the changes we all know are needed 

at City Hall; thank you for the opportunity to be a significant 

part of this historic point in Calgary’s history. 

There are five major Ramsay issues I’ve begun to tackle at 

City Hall amidst the chaos of getting my feet under me: 

1. The first is my pledge to remove Lilydale. I’ve made both 

Law and Bylaw aware of the “Carrot and Stick” approach 

we need to undertake against this unacceptable use (and 

horrible neighbour) in our midst. Later this week I’ll be 

meeting with the City’s team that will outline the history of 

this issue from the City’s perspective. After that, I’ll be inviting 

Ramsay residents and their council at Eco-Justice to sit 

down with us - depending on where administration is on 

this issue, either to discuss next steps, and/or to bring them 

up to speed. 

2. The second issue pertains to the re-routing of the 403 and 

433 bus routes that have so completely frustrated the seniors 

on the hill. I will be bringing a representative from Calgary 

Transit to the December Ramsay meeting to discuss the 

City’s rationale for these changes and brainstorm remediation 

that will once again better serve our seniors. 

3. The third issue is the behind the scenes work regarding 

the appeal of the Stampede River Park that Ramsay’s Civic 

Affairs Committee will have brought before SDAB by the 

time this newsletter is published. Sadly, as an alderman, 

and particularly as an alderman that has been appointed 

to SDAB, I will be unable to participate in the hearing. 

I’m further frustrated by the fact that I received my first 

aldermanic black-eye from the press - FFWD no less - surrounding 

this issue. I was misquoted in FFWD as saying 

that I thought the Stampede’s plans were “wonderful.” What 

I actually said was that compared to what’s there now, the 

plans are wonderful but they still have serious issues that our 

current system does not allow us to address in a constructive 

and collaborative way. Further, FFWD quoted me as saying 

that I thought Ramsay’s Civic Affairs Committee was too 

focused on minute details, when what I said was that our 

current system is too focused on creating conflict regarding 

details, rather than facilitating collaboration regarding realizing 

vision. As someone who’s represented communities 

against this system at SDAB dozens of times, I know that 

win or loose in the short term, these kinds of struggles are 

ultimately a losing proposition for hard working community 

volunteers. 

4. To this end, I’ve met with the head of the approvals department, 

Stan Schwartzenberger, to start envisioning a more 

collaborative approach to development approvals that we’ll 

hopefully be piloting in Inglewood and Ramsay. I’m really 

looking forward to sharing this idea as it takes shape over 

the next couple months. 

5. Finally, and a massive deal for Ramsay will be the decisions 

council makes in the early new year regarding the timing of 

the SE LRT - it’s my hope that this project will move forward 

quickly and provide immediate impetus for removing 

Lilydale and promoting the transformation of 11th Street 

into the Neighbourhood Corridor it’s destined to become. 

Please stand by for more details on all accounts and in the 

eantime, I wish everyone in Ramsay the very best for the holiday 

season; I look forward to touching base when we meet as 

neighbours on the street, in a local business, or at a seasonal 

event. Thank you and please don’t hesitate to contact me 

regarding any ideas or concerns you have about Inglewood, our 

ward, or our City. 

— Gian-Carlo Carra 

Office: 403.268.2430 Cell: 403.512.6043 Email: ward09@ 

calgary.ca Web: http://www.carra4ward9.ca Twitter: http:// 

twitter.com/gccarra 

www.penguincarwash.com 403-452-6646 


Seasons Greetings 

As Christmas fast approaches, it may strike you as interesting how many different ways people 

celebrate and view this time of the year. 

English Christmas customs traveled across the ocean to the United States and to three countries share 

the hanging of stockings and mistletoe, and decorate with holly and ivy. 

In Germany, the Christmas tree became popular during the Middle Ages when folk would decorate 

evergreen boughs with apples. Later on blown glass ornaments and paper cornucopias were added to the 

decorations. 

As time passed, candles, gingerbread people and houses also became popular. 

Feliz Navidad! – In Mexico the Christmas celebration begins nine days before December 25 with Las 

Posadas. During this time the people in the town go to a different home each night. At each home the story of 

Mary and Joseph seeking shelter at the inn is acted out. 

Pinatas are a fun part of the Christmas celebration in Mexico. Pinatas are figures made out of clay or 

paper-mache decorated with paper. Children use a stick to try to break the piñata. When one child breaks the 

piñata, all children are rewarded with a “rainfall” of candy and small toys. The poinsettia flower is also very 

popular. Legend has it that the poinsettia plant formed miraculously out of a bunch of weeds one Christmas 

Eve from a little girl’s only gift to the baby Jesus at her church’s midnight service. 

Bethlehem, where Jesus is said to have been born is the site of the Church of The Nativity, which is 

ablaze with flags and decorations every Christmas. On Christmas Eve natives and visitors alike crowd the 

church’s doorways and stand on the roof to watch for the dramatic annual procession. 

Christian homes in Bethlehem are marked by a cross painted over the door and each home displays a 

home-made manger scene. A star is usually set up on a pole in every village square. 

Whatever method our friends, clients and associates use to celebrate this festive season we would like 

to wish you all, a “Merry Christmas” and a safe and “Happy Holiday” 

Yoki & Jeff Nichol 

TOP 1% in Canada Since 1983 

Bus: 271-5555 

From one Generation to the Next… 

Both working for you with 

SINCERITY AND INTEGRITY 

Relocation Specialist with over 300 Corporate Clients 

We appreciate and we thank you for your loyalty. 

www.yoki.ca 

Licensed Agent 

10 years sales experience 

5 years MLS Million Dollar Club 

yoki@yoki.ca 

jeff@yoki.ca 

RAM REALTY

Retreat from holiday busyness with a reflective, entertaining or 

inspirational program at the Central Library. Call 403-260-2620 to 

register or register at http://calgarypubliclibrary.com/programs.aspx. 

Happy Holidays from Central Library staff. 

Community Learning in the Humanities Read, reflect, discuss, 

and write in a collaborative learning environment. University lecturers 

lead free, interdisciplinary discussions on a new topic each 

month. For more information, contact CLHprogram@gmail.com. 

Weds, Dec 1 to 22; 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. Lower level - Meeting Room 2 

Kamloops and the Moose Squadron: A Lasting Friendship, 

1943-2010 Explore the amazing saga of this famous Canadian 

bomber squadron and its enduring bond with Kamloops. Presented 

by Stephane Guevremont, University of Calgary. Fri, Dec 3; 7-9 

pm. 2nd floor +15 - John Dutton Theatre 

Sustainable Living Book Club - A Sand County Almanac by 

Aldo Leopold Join a lively discussion of books that help us understand 

the world, our place in it, and environmental sustainability. 

Wed, Dec 8; 6-7:30 pm. 4th floor N - Meeting Room 

The Only Shadow in the House by Joan Donaldson-Yarmey 

Explore Alberta as the author reads from the second book in her 

Travelling Detective series, featuring travel writer Elizabeth Oliver. 

Thu, Dec 9; 6-7:30pm. 5th floor N - Meeting Room 

Living Library Borrow a “living book” in this unique program which 

allows Calgarians to discover more about diverse social identities. 

Fri, Dec 10; 11 am-3 pm. Main floor S - New and Notable 

Thursday Afternoon at the Movies - Holiday Inn Join old friends, 

meet new ones, and enjoy a great movie from classics to contemporary. 

Thu, Dec 16; 1-3 pm. 2nd floor +15 - John Dutton Theatre 

Library Guide Dog for Christmas 

Sponsor a Guide Dog Puppy for Christmas Not sure what 

to give someone on your gift list? For less than the cost of 

a cup of coffee a day, you can give someone their very own 

puppy ... but they won’t have to feed it or take it for walks! 

They’ll get the joy and satisfaction of watching their adorable 

puppy learn to be a guide dog! And at the same time, you will 

be supporting Alberta Guide Dog Services, a local charity that 

breeds and trains guide dogs for blind and visually impaired 

people and support dogs for children with autism. Sponsoring 

costs just $250 for a full two years and you’ll even receive a tax 

receipt for your gift! (Monthly payment is also available.) The 

recipient of your gift will receive a welcome pack that includes 

a framed photo of their new puppy. From then on quarterly 

“pupdates” will arrive on how they are progressing, along with 

more pictures as the dog grows up. The ultimate gift comes 

at the-end of out two-year training program -- a photo of the 

young dog graduating with a partner who needs them. It’s not 

just a warm and fuzzy gift. It truly helps our charity to make a 

visible difference in someone’s life. It costs more than $35,000 

to produce one dog but the recipient pays just $1. The value to 

the person who gets the dog - Priceless! Please call (403) 258- 

0819 for more information for a truly meaningful Christmas 

gift! For further information or to set up an interview please 

call Susan at 403-258-0819, E-mail: info(@.albertaguidedog. 

com or visit our website at albertaguidedog.com. 

THANK-YOU OVER $9000 RAISED! 

Belloy Engineering 

Inglewood Family Health Centre 

perry thompson photography 

George Silas 

The Read Family 

Calgary Civic Symphony 

Wayne Cao, MLA Calgary Fort 

Robinsons Camera 

Calgary Zoo 

Christine Richards 

M & M Meats 

Charlane Rombough-Sun Life Financial 

Junktiques Limited 

CIRCA Vintage Art Glass 

Sugo 

Chantal Pegg 

Jessica & Jim Tamblyn 

Tail Blazers 

Tea Trader 

Savour 

The Deane House & Fort Calgary 

Browning Horrock Golf Design 

Marilyn Horne 

Adorn Boutique 

Beverley Waterbury 

Kim’s Dry Cleaning & Alterations 

Inglewood Antiques 

Hose & Hound Neighbourhood Pub 

Wildernest Dream Café 

Spolumbos Deli & Fine Foods 

Village Cantina 

Blackfoot Truck Stop Restaurant 

Zyn.ca 

ARTISTS: 

Madeleine Wakefield, Joan Weiser, 

Charlene Turner-Kroeger, Pam Dalsin 

Fred Spina, Suzanne Heathcote 

Elizabeth Allen, David Foxcroft 

Jesus Nunez, Carole Bondaroff 

Stan Phelps, Amy Quon Trewhitt 

Maureen Leitch, Kristin Boettger 

Jackie Unger, Kien Ly 

Elizabeth Dunn, Elsie Stein 

Red Davis, Angelique Gillespie 

Julia de Boer, Rhonda Word 

Les Pinter, Thomas Wong 

Joyce Tiffin, Elizabeth Laishley 

Alexandra Centre Society 


Blackfoot District District Guiding 

Ho! Ho! Ho! And mistletoe! 

It’s that very festive time of year again. And Girl Guide 

chocolaty mint cookies are perfect for the season! 

November was a busy time for all our units with enrolments, 

and Remembrance Day activities. In December all our units 

will be busy celebrating the festive season and wishing everyone 

‘Peace on Earth”. 

The Sparks units will be skating, learning about healthy eating, 

caroling and gearing up for “Rockin’ Christmas” parties. 

The Brownie units will be participating in the Dove “Love 

Yourself” program, visiting a CO-OP bakery, caroling and celebrating 

the season with chillin parties. 

The Guide units are visiting the Science Centre, the Military 

Museums, caroling for the seniors, attending “Go Girl” and 

taking in the spectacular Zoolights. 

The Pathfinder units went to Heritage Park After Dark, volunteered 

at the Remembrance Day celebrations at the Jubilee 

Auditorium, had a movie night, played bingo with the seniors, 

participated in a dry land fitness class, went for a swim at the 

wave pool and took in Zoolights. 

The Ranger units also volunteered at the Jubilee Auditorium 

for Remembrance Day, attended a dry land fitness class, went 

for a swim, made glass fused mosaics, created craft kits for the 

Peter Lougheed Centre, went to provincial Ranger camp and 

celebrated the season at Zoolights. 

The Trex unit went back packing to Point, volunteered at 

Haunted Calgary and tried their hand at archery. 

Guiding is a great place to grow lasting friendships and experience 

new opportunities. Why not give us a try! Registration 

is ongoing and January is a great time of year to join a unit 

and have some fun. 

If you have any questions regarding Guiding or registration 

please contact our district commissioner Tracy Comessotti at 

403-203-2414 or via email tracy@comessotti.com. 

We would like to wish everyone a joyous and festive holiday 

season. And remember Guiding is Fun! 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! 


Alexandra Centre Society 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHRISTMAS HAMPERS 

Help a family in need in our community. 

Donations gratefully accepted. 

We are taking referrals for Christmas 

Hampers. 

Packing & organising volunteers 

needed. 

Christmas Wine & Cheese 

Dec 15, 6:30PM 

Volunteer for and evening of hamper 

prep. and share some Christmas cheer 

with neighbours and friends 

RSVP Colleen (403)269-5588 

Our first fundraiser was a resounding success. 

Approximately $9300.00 was raised for Jack 

Long Park. The event was a collaborative 

community effort. Our guests were treated to 

some wonderful refreshments donated by local 

restaurateurs, auction items & door prizes 

donated by local retailers & businesses. The 

evening was hosted by Darrell Janz, Art Auction 

run by Doug Levis, and everyone enjoyed the 

vocals of Viviane Martin accompanied by her 

husband Dan Martin. Art and silent auction items 

were donated by local artists and area businesses. 

See Alexandra Centre’s ad in this issue for our 

list of donors. 

In addition to our donors the following 

volunteers were instrumental in making Mixed 

Palettes a success; a very special thanks to our 

organising committee Pat Abbott, Patricia 

Cranwell & Neil McMullen and especially 

Marilyn Horne for her work on the art auction. 

Thank you also to the following event 

volunteers: Peter Abbott, Debbie Bennett, Ria 

Buur, Cheryl Christmas, Luke Couper, Molly 

Cropper, Mary Dobkins, Shelagh Fleming, 

Colleen Fluke, Debi Hoekstra, Waltraud Jacob- 

Rhynold, Laura Reuben-Spear, Ken Robertson, 

Gary Spear, Jessica Tamblyn, Jim Tamblyn, 

Madeline Wakefield and Anke Wiechel. 

2011 PROGRAMS 

AIKIDO 

Regular: 6:00 – 8:00 PM 

Tuesday /Thursday 16 years and over. 

FREE Trial Class available 

YOGA 

Mondays: 

First Class January 17 (12 Classes) 

Level II 5:45 – 7:00 Level I / II – 7:15 

YOGA FOR BACKS : 4:30 

Wednesdays 


Level I 5:45 Level II – 7:15 

Saturdays 


Gentle Yoga – 9:30 – 10:15 

Level I - 10:30 – Noon 

Minimum 8 registrants per class. 

SUZUKI MUSIC PREPARATION 

Fridays 9:30AM & 10:45AM 

Jan 7 – April 15 

Minimum 8 registrants. 

SPANISH (8 weeks) Tues 7 – 8:30 

Beginner I & Intermediate 

Jan. 18 – Mar 8 

NEW! Spanish for Travellers 

Thurs 7 – 8:30 

Jan. 20 – Mar 10 

Minimum 6 registrants 

For Information on all programs contact 

Colleen (403) 269-5588 

Office Closed Dec. 24 – Jan 3, 2011 

For information on all programs, call Colleen269-5588 or email info@alexandracentresociety.org

Ramsay’s Very Own Specialist. 

Just So You Know… 

1021 Maggie Street 

13 Active Listings 

$234,900 > $929,000 

36 Sales for 2010 

$250,000 > $625,000 

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO THE 

COMMUNITY OF RAMSAY & A 

VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR! 

Thank you Ramsay for all your 

business in 2010 ~ it was my pleasure 

to be of service to both the residents 

& the new to the area home owners! 

www.patriciacranwell.com 

The Highest Sale of 2010 ~ to date! 

A wonderful old house rumoured to be Maggie’s 

on intriguing Maggie St! A 50’ lot with a sumptuous 

hidden full City View! $639,900 

Sold ~ Sold ~ SOLD! 

I believe… 

Your home is unique and has its very own “Top” market 

value. Call me for a complimentary, confidential and up 

to date evaluation! 253-5678 

This communication is not intended to cause 

or induce a breach of an existing agency 

agreement. 

I’m not #1 in my career – You are!

December 2010 - Ramsay Community Association

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?