EDMONTON EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT May 23rd-29th, 2013 -by Shirley McQueen

Posted on May 22, 2013 by shirley

 RIVER CREE  AT THE RIVER CREE RESORT & CASINO:

sage SAGE RESTAURANT presents THE CHEESE FESTIVAL, Thursday, May 23rd, 5:30-10:00pm.  Each month celebrated executive chef Christophe Ithurritze creates a fabulous 5 course dinner featuring a specific food, all for just $60 per person.   Sage fine dining offers  a sophisticated atmosphere, world class chef, and an exclusive wine list.   Must be 18+   http://www.rivercreeresort.com/dining.php

 

body_worlds_billboard TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE presents the Canadian debut of Gunther von Hagen’s BODYWORLDS & THE CYCLE OF LIFE opening Saturday, May 18th.  Making its Canadian debut, this new exhibition from physician and pioneering anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens presents the body throughout the human life cycle and across the arc of aging.   More than 200 plastinates—real human specimens preserved through Dr. von Hagens’ invention, the remarkable process called Plastination—reveal the human body in all its stages, across youth, growth, maturity and advanced age, and in all its conditions, from health to distress to disease.  http://www.telusworldofscienceedmonton.com/exhibits-events/body-worlds-cycle-life

edmonton classicThe Whitemud Equine Learning Centre invites you to the EDMONTON CLASSIC HORSE SHOW featuring the $25,000 Atco Cup, The “Horse & Hounds” Event, BBQ and Dance, a Cancer Benefit Luncheon & the Little Bits Breakfast on now through this Sunday, May 26th at their Showgrounds, 12504 Fox Drive.  Info and tickets here: http://welca.ca/events

Rainmaker  The St. Albert Kinsmen present THE RAINMAKER RODEO & EXHIBITION, Friday, May 24th-Sunday, May 26th, .  Pancake breakfasts, family fun with the midway, marketplace, lumberjack shows, Dynamo Dogs, petting zoo & lots more including the rodeo of course!  Entertainment: FINGER ELEVEN, DOC WALKER & others.   FREE Park & Ride from St. Albert Centre.  http://www.rainmaker.ab.ca/default.cfm

The Rainmaker Rodeo is just one of the 100 THINGS TO SEE AND DO AROUND #YEG courtesy of www.edmonton.com:  http://www.edmonton.com/for-visitors/1051.aspx

Most Alberta campgrounds are now operational.  Great recommendations, safety tips and related information can be found here on the Travel Alberta site: http://travelalberta.com/Things%20to%20Do/Outdoor%20Adventure/Camping.aspx?mkwid=sEqGHIq9H&pcrid=25395425720&pkw=%2Bcamping&pmt=b&gclid=COX_9eLNnbcCFaaDQgodNRMALw

Ready, set, golf! All municipal golf courses are now open.  Rundle Park, Victoria Park and Riverside Golf Courses.   Book your tee time on line:  http://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_recreation/sport_recreation/municipal_golf_courses/riverside-golf-course.aspx

  Thoroughbred fans rejoice – Northlands Park invites you for a day or a night at the races!  The 2013 season has begun at Northlands Park.  Post times Fridays 6pm, Saturdays 1pm.  http://northlandspark.ca/

 

DIANA – A CELEBRATION Exhibit, WEST EDMONTON MALL, on now through June 9th.  Featuring the late Princess’s iconic wedding dress amoung several other pieces from her wardrobe & more.  Tickets at Ticketmaster or at the exhibit entrance (#31). http://www.wem.ca/#/hours-rates-calendar/events-performances/diana-a-celebration-exhibit-2772

Join LITE 95.7 at these great community events:  http://lite957.ca/index.phpoption=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=97&Itemid=273

AND HERE: http://lite957.ca/index.php?option=com_events&Itemid=274

Daily events including ZUMBA in the Square Mondays & Fridays 12-1pm and Wednesday night Light Saber Training, 7-8:30 pm - Professional fight choreographer Janine Waddel-Hodder.  Bring your own Light Saber and may the force be with you!  at Sir Winston Churchill Square: http://www.edmontonarts.ca/eac_projects/eac_projects_churchillsquare/

Here’s your guide to events in the downtown core: http://edmontondowntown.com/events.php

And the city of Edmonton’s FESTIVAL GUIDE: http://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_recreation/documents/PDF/EdmFestivalCity_2013_WEB_-_FINAL.pdf

 

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE:

  events at REXALL PLACE:

wwe  WWE SMACKDOWN!  Tuesday, May 28th, 7:00pm. http://www.northlands.com/wwe-smackdown-1 

AmalunaLarge CIRQUE DE SOLEIL presents AMALUNA, The Big Tent, on the grounds at Northlands Park, opening Wednesday, May 29th for a two week run.  http://www.northlands.com/cirque-du-soleil-1

 

 

   AT THE WINSPEAR:  Full ESO schedule: http://www.winspearcentre.com/

 

century casino showroom  AT THE CENTURY CASINO SHOWROOM:

gerry PMs GERRY & THE PACEMAKERS, Tuesday, May 28th, doors open 7:00pm.  http://edmonton.cnty.com/showroom/showroom-events/upcoming-events/

 

 

Citadel AT THE CITADEL THEATRE:  http://www.citadeltheatre.com/

 

 

DIE-NASTY – THE ONGOING IMPROVISED SOAP OPERA, Varscona Theatre, now playing through May 13th. http://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_recreation/festivals_events/events-calendar.aspx

 

FUNNY PEOPLE – YOU’LL SPLIT A GUT!  

YUK YUK’S at the CENTURY CASINO -   http://www.yukyuks.com/index.cfm?action=club.showdetails&venueID=2480                                                               

AT THE COMIC STRIP – http://www.thecomicstrip.ca/default.asp

 

WHAT’S ON TV?

 

  MAD MEN Season 6,  (AMC) http://www.amctv.com/shows/mad-men – Sundays,  7PM, + repeats again at 9pm & 11pm.  http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/05/arts/television/mad-men-season-6-focuses-more-on-women.html?_r=0

Here is the schedule for the late night and talk shows for the coming couple of weeks: http://www.interbridge.com/lineups.html

GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULIS TONIGHT (CBC TV)   Friday, Best of the Week. Full schedule: http://www.cbc.ca/strombo/weekly-schedule/guests-week-of-february-11-2013.html?p=tv&s=tv_schedule

ET and ET CANADA (GLOBAL TV) Weeknights at 7 & 7:30pm.

OWN-Oprah Winfrey Network:  http://ownca.oprah.com/Home.aspx  OPRAH’S NEXT CHAPTER:   http://www.oprah.com/own-oprahs-next-chapter/oprahs-next-chapter.html    OPRAH’S MASTER CLASS:

  SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE  (Global, NBC), May 25th, 11:30pm.

 

MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND, reviews from imdb.com:

 

 

 

  THE ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM has several exciting exhibitions on now, 12845  102nd Avenue.  http://www.royalalbertamuseum.ca/

Come enjoy the spring air and get some exercise at the STRATHCONA WILDERNESS CENTRE.  Trek their 12 km of trails winding through the woodland around Bennett Lake, just east of Sherwood Park.  They offer a wide variety of recreational programs.  Open daily 9am-4:30pm, 52535 Range Road 212, Strathcona County, 780-922-3939

 

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Be Good To Your Lungs – by Shirley McQueen: 6 Tips For Keeping Your Lungs Clean from Healthwire.com

Posted on May 22, 2013 by shirley

Last Saturday a new exhibit opened at Telus World of Science.  Jamie O’Connell and Shannon Megdalia were able to check it out and raved about it. body_worlds_billboard TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE presents Gunther von Hagen’s BODYWORLDS & THE CYCLE OF LIFE    http://www.telusworldofscienceedmonton.com/exhibits-events/body-worlds-cycle-life  Making its Canadian debut, this new exhibition from physician and pioneering anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens features the body throughout the human life cycle and across the arc of aging.   More than 200 plastinates—real human cadavers who donated their bodies to science - preserved through Dr. von Hagens’ invention, the remarkable process called Plastination,  allow us to see the human body in all its stages, from embryo to youth, growth, maturity and advanced age…. and in all its conditions, from health to distress to disease.   You’re able to see an embryo in utero, a smoker’s lungs and more.

lungs  Jamie said there was a smoker present who decided he was quitting right then and there – a good idea for anyone who’s addicted to tobacco.   After all, you can go without food for as much as ten to twelve days, without water for three or four days before things get critical – but most of us need a new breath of air to fill our lungs within a matter of seconds – be good to them.

lungs II  I subscribe to Healthwire.com www.healthwire.com  - here’s a recent post from Dr. Edward Group, founder of the Global Healing Centre, that has some great information about how to be good to your lungs:

6 Tips for Keeping Your Lungs Clean

Posted by Health Wire – Friday, February 15th, 2013

Keeping your body clean on the inside is one of the best things you can do to stay healthy and, as such, many people regularly perform colon cleansing and liver cleansing routines. Harmful organism cleanses and toxic metal cleanses are also common, beneficial, and recommended. But did you know there are measures you can take to keep your lungs clean too? It’s important to have healthy lungs, as a pair, they’re one of the most active organs in the body and certainly one of the most important. We can go weeks without food, and days without water… but not very long without air. Here are 6 easy tips you can implement right away to keep your lungs at peak performance.

1. Don’t Smoke

This one is a no-brainer, the detrimental effect of cigarette smoke on the lungs has been known and documented for over a hundred years… yet some people continue to do it. Smoking deposits harmful and obstructive tar in the lungs, not to mention a phone-book sized list of chemicals. The chemicals in cigarette smoke, like carbon monoxide, inhibit mechanical lung function and contribute to the development of big, big problems like emphysema and cancer. Smoking is bad for your health and it’s bad for everyone around you. There’s no need to rehash what we all know, let’s just shut the book on this one- don’t smoke!

2. Perform Lung Cleansing Exercises

Did you know breathing exercises can strengthen your lungs and help clear toxins? Just as bicep curls will strengthen your arms, deep breathing exercises will strengthen your lungs and clear your airways. Deep breathing provides a secondary benefit in that they deliver more nourishing oxygen to your body. Shallow breathing is often a product of weak lung function or sedentary habits. It’s a bad habit and if you’re guilty, stop! Once or twice a day, find a quiet place and perform the deep breathing exercises that tap into the full capacity of your lungs!

3. Eat Lung Cleansing Foods

Did you know pistachios, plantain leaf, and cayenne pepper are all foods that promote healthy lung function? Pistachios contain gamma-tocopherol, a type of vitamin E that is believed to reduce risk of lung cancer. Plantain leaf, popular in Latin American cuisine, is useful suppressing mucous and may help respiratory problems that involve congestion. Cayenne peppers are potent foods whose benefits are equal to their heat. Cayenne has been shown to relieve inflammation which is great news when you’re suffering from coughs and sore throats.

4. Reduce Your Indoor Air Pollution Exposure

Indoor environments can be contaminated with over 1,000 species of mold and mildew. Pet dander is a common indoor pollutant that is notorious for antagonizing allergies. Synthetic, chemical-based cleaning products are toxic substances with toxic fumes, just check the warning label! (and make your own natural alternatives instead). Upholstery, carpet, paint, and building materials are also all common sources of indoor pollution. The indoor air pollution problem is compounded by the fact that home construction has become more airtight in the last 30 years which traps pollutants inside. A drafty house may not seem the most efficient when the electricity bill arrives but there is something to be said about the constant airflow. Aside from ridding your home of the sources of pollution, air exchange systems and indoor air purification systems are good proactive approaches to purifying the air in your home.

5. Make a Castor Oil Pack for Lung Cleansing

Castor oil packs are easy to make at home and work great for drawing toxins out of the body! Castor oil has long been appreciated as a general health tonic and is believed to stimulate lymphatic circulation and waste elimination. Castor oil packs are placed on the chest, perhaps similar to vapor rubs, and are thought to break up congestion and toxins. Easy, effective, and inexpensive, try it!

6. Take Lung Cleansing Herbs

Plants like oregano, orange peel, elecampane, eucalyptus, peppermint, lungwort, osha root, chaparral, and lobelia have been used for hundreds of years, if not longer, as natural remedies for respiratory conditions. Individual herbal tinctures and extracts are available, or, rather than purchasing and taking each separately, AllerTrex™ is a natural lung cleansing supplement that contains organic and wildcrafted herbs known to support respiratory ailments, help with normal lung functions, and cleanse your lungs of harmful agents.

*Post courtesy of Dr. Edward Group, the founder and CEO of Global Healing Center. He has studied natural healing methods for over 20 years and leads up the research and development team, assuming a hands-on approach in producing new and advanced degenerative disease products and information

Posted in Edmonton Community, Food & Recipes, Garden, Health & Fitness, Home & Organizing, How to Look Good Naked, Kids & Family, Shopping, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Tornados: Be Safe, Be Prepared -by Shirley McQueen

Posted on May 21, 2013 by shirley

tornado III  Yesterday’s deadly tornados in Oklahoma certainly illustrated that Mother Nature is not discerning.  A tornado that touches down will destroy anything and anyone in it’s path.  The Pine Lake tornado was a sober reminder that we are vulnerable here in Alberta as well.  With the season upon us, perhaps it’s a good time to review how to be safe by being prepared in the event of a tornado.   

Firstly, have a tornado safety plan in place appropriate for your dwelling (there are links to sites below to help you develop one for your family) and an action plan if a tornado develops during the work/school day when you are not at home. 

Secondly, be weather aware.  You may find it helpful to get the Red Cross tornado app.  This free app is available on iTunes and Google Play stores. 

Tornados are a result of hot and cold air colliding.  Before thunderstorms develop, a change in wind direction and an increase in wind speed with increasing height creates an invisible, horizontal spinning effect in the lower atmosphere.  Rising air within the thunderstorm’s updraft tilts the rotating air from horizontal to vertical.  Most strong and violent tornadoes form within this area of rotation.   This Youtube video shows how tornados form: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjjwPQRVbWk

When a tornado “watch” is issued that indicates that conditions are right for a tornado to form and we should be alert.  A tornado “warning” means that one has either been spotted in the air or has touched down in the area already.  A “warning” means you should put your safety plan into action. 

Here are a few helpful links, some Canadian and some American where the majority of the world’s tornados occur:

http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2013/05/what_to_do_when_a_tornado_stri.html

http://www.ec.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En&xml=D8429824-410F-4EC0-8B21-3C77B069C619

http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/disaster/factsheets/pdf/41.pdf

http://www.crh.noaa.gov/lmk/preparedness/tornado_small/howdo.php

http://www.aema.alberta.ca/ea_index.cfm

http://www.tornadoproject.com/safety/safety.htm

http://www.ready.gov/tornadoes

Posted in Edmonton Community, Health & Fitness, Home & Organizing, Kids & Family | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Sane Bathing Suit Shopping

Posted on May 19, 2013 by Shannon

tummy-swim-gottex_300

It’s summer and so you may be spending some time at the lake or the beach or the splash park. Either way you’ll need a bathing suit at some point and maybe this is the year you finally have to buy a new one. My mom and I both hate shopping for new bathing suits so we wear ours usually WAY past the point that anyone should be wearing a bathing suit. You know what I mean, they’ve become see through in spots and little holes in the seams. I hate shopping for bathing suits because it always ends up making me depressed and I end up eating a bucket of ice cream and then not being able to fit into the new suit I just bought.

Well it’s time for me to get a new suit because I accidentally left old faithful behind in a cabin in Jasper so I can’t put it off any more. I’ve looked up some tips on bathing suit shopping and I’ll put the links to these awesome websites here so you can check it out for yourself :

http://www.webmd.com/beauty/style/15-tips-saner-swimsuit-shopping

This website says to remember what you wear when it comes to your lingerie. For instance if you wear an bra with a wire in it you may want to choose a bathing suit with the same sort of bust support.

They also say to wear your skimpiest underwear when trying on bathing suits so you don’t see the huge panty lines.

and :

  • To camouflage bumps and bulges. Look for large bold prints in light and dark combinations, Kauchner says. When possible, pick up a pareo or wrap to match.
  • To hide a tummy. Choose a skirted suit, Paige says, but look for one with edges that turn up at the sides in a “shirttail” style. “This will make your legs look longer and the skirt look more flirty,” she says.
  • To diminish a full middle. Opt for a one-piece suit with a blouson top, or a long tankini- style top over a bottom that hits at the waist, Weston advises.
  • To create curves in all the right places.Try a deep V halter top and high-cut legs to fill out your figure and give you curves instead of bumps and lumps, says Weston.
  • To detract from a large waist and hips. Go for a low-cut suit with a wide neckline to create balance between the upper and lower body, Blondeau says. A solid-color bottom with a printed top will minimize hips.
  • To slim a full chest. Choose a halter top to lift you, cover jiggly areas at the side of the bust, and put all the focus up front, says Paige.
  • To enhance a small bust. Get a suit with a bright or printed top and an underwire bra or molded cup to enhance cleavage, says Weston.
  • For the best overall control. Opt for a one-piece suit with tummy and derriere lift panels, says Paige. Or choose a two-piece with a bottom that reaches your belly button and has an interior support panel.

This website is a little more humorous :

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/19/swimwear-shopping-_n_3111545.html

But I do like their solution to if all else fails!

And this website gives you great answers to bathing suits myths :

http://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing/swimsuit-myths-00000000012923/index.html

Like: myth – look for the same size in bathing suits as you would wear in clothes

fact – bathing suits sizes are smaller because they’re meant to fit snugly so you may have to actually go up a size higher than what you would usually wear.

Hopefully with all these tips your bathing suit shopping this year won’t be horrible and you won’t have to keep old faithful until it’s totally see through!

- Shannon

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Toughen Your Teeth Up

Posted on May 18, 2013 by Shannon

tom cruise

Last year I noticed that any time I ate gummie bears or really sweet rich desserts my teeth would start to hurt and thus began a year long process of trying to figure out what was wrong with my teeth. I didn’t realize that even if your teeth are not sensitive to hot and cold they can still be sensitive to sweets. I had assumed it was my body’s way of fighting back and telling me it was time to drop the sweets and pick up my running shoes but my dentist told me it could be that I had some exposed dentin. Dentin are little tubes in your teeth that hold nerves and when they’re exposed it can cause pain to drink cold water or eat something sticky and sweet. My dentist used me sort of as a guinea pig for some new toothpaste on the market but if you don’t want to have to pay big bucks there are some ways that you can deal with sensitive teeth naturally :

- Toothpaste. There are all kinds of special toothpastes out there that will help you with sensitive teeth. They don’t work for everyone but when it does work it’s a quick and easy way to deal with a painful problem. The only catch is that a lot of people will brush and then as soon as the pain is gone they stop using the toothpaste – keep using it to keep the pain away for good.

- Relax. My husband brushes his teeth like they’re a casserole dish that was forgotten about and the food is now cemented to the glass. If you’re a heavy duty brusher lighten up a bit. Brushing like a crazy man will only succeed to wear away enamel which will increase sensitivity. You still need to brush for a full 2 minutes but make it a much more relaxing two minutes.

- Keep the acid away. Acidic foods eat away at your enamel and so foods like pickles or red wine, pop or fruit juices could all be contributing to your sensitive teeth. Of course you’re not expected to stop eating or drinking this stuff completely but when you do eat or drink something acidic try to brush your teeth 20 minutes after eating them (not before or you’ll hurt your enamel). It’s a good practice to get into even if your teeth aren’t sensitive right now because once you lose your enamel you can’t get it back.

- Stop grinding your teeth. That’s difficult especially if you don’t know you’re doing it but if you can do it – it’s a huge help! A lot of people grind their teeth while their sleeping but usually if you’re a subconscious grinder you’ll have headaches or jaw aches that will point to a little nocturnal grinding. Try changing sleeping positions or maybe even invest in a mouth guard.

According to howstuffworks.com you can usually self treat sensitive teeth but you may need to see a dentist if :

  • Your teeth are persistently sensitive to pressure.
  • A single tooth is persistently sensitive, which could indicate that its pulp is infected or dying.
  • Sensitivity doesn’t decrease after two weeks of using desensitizing toothpaste.
  • You have dental pain that lasts more than an hour.
  • The gums around a sensitive tooth change color.
  • You have any obvious decay.

My dentist was wonderful about it and for all the slag I gave him about not being able to figure out what was going on right away he kept at it until he finally figured it out. I have the best dentist ever but seeing him as often as I did started to get a little old so hopefully this will help keep you out of the chair as much as possible!

- Shannon

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Edmonton EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT May 16th-22nd, 2013 -by Shirley McQueen

Posted on May 16, 2013 by shirley

camper II The May long weekend marks the beginning of the summer holiday & travel season.  Most Alberta campgrounds are now operational.  Great recommendations, safety tips and related information can be found here on the Travel Alberta site: http://travelalberta.com/Things%20to%20Do/Outdoor%20Adventure/Camping.aspx?mkwid=sEqGHIq9H&pcrid=25395425720&pkw=%2Bcamping&pmt=b&gclid=COX_9eLNnbcCFaaDQgodNRMALw

body_worlds_billboard TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE presents the Canadian debut of Gunther von Hagen’s BODYWORLDS & THE CYCLE OF LIFE opening Saturday, May 18th.  Making its Canadian debut, this new exhibition from physician and pioneering anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens presents the body throughout the human life cycle and across the arc of aging.   More than 200 plastinates—real human specimens preserved through Dr. von Hagens’ invention, the remarkable process called Plastination—reveal the human body in all its stages, across youth, growth, maturity and advanced age, and in all its conditions, from health to distress to disease.  http://www.telusworldofscienceedmonton.com/exhibits-events/body-worlds-cycle-life

closetFASHION BLOGGERS SALE: A handful of Edmonton fashion bloggers are cleaning out their closets and selling their favourite clothing, bags, jewelry and shoes - Saturday, May 18th, at Phabrik Art + Design (10055 80th Ave.) from 12-5 p.m.   Clothing sizes will range from two to 18, and prices will vary  based on the label, designer and quality of garment.   CASH ONLY.

Ready, set, golf! All municipal golf courses are now open.  Rundle Park, Victoria Park and Riverside Golf Courses.   Book your tee time on line:  http://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_recreation/sport_recreation/municipal_golf_courses/riverside-golf-course.aspx

  Thoroughbred fans rejoice – Northlands Park invites you for a day or a night at the races!  The 2013 season has begun at Northlands Park.  Post times Fridays 6pm, Saturdays 1pm.  http://northlandspark.ca/

 

DIANA – A CELEBRATION Exhibit, WEST EDMONTON MALL, on now through June 9th.  Featuring the late Princess’s iconic wedding dress amoung several other pieces from her wardrobe & more.  Tickets at Ticketmaster or at the exhibit entrance (#31). http://www.wem.ca/#/hours-rates-calendar/events-performances/diana-a-celebration-exhibit-2772

Join LITE 95.7 at these great community events:  http://lite957.ca/index.phpoption=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=97&Itemid=273

AND HERE: http://lite957.ca/index.php?option=com_events&Itemid=274

 churchill square  More hip than square – lots to do Victoria Day Holiday Monday in Sir Winston Churchill Square.  Other daily events including ZUMBA in the Square Mondays & Fridays 12-1pm and Wednesday night Light Saber Training, 7-8:30 pm - Professional fight choreographer Janine Waddel-Hodder.  Bring your own Light Saber and may the force be with you!  at Sir Winston Churchill Square: http://www.edmontonarts.ca/eac_projects/eac_projects_churchillsquare/

Here’s your guide to events in the downtown core: http://edmontondowntown.com/events.php

And the city of Edmonton’s FESTIVAL GUIDE: http://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_recreation/documents/PDF/EdmFestivalCity_2013_WEB_-_FINAL.pdf

CelebrationofDance THE UKRANIAN CULTURAL HERITAGE VILLAGE presents A CELEBRATION OF DANCE Victoria Day Holiday Monday, May 20th, 10:00am-5:00pm, at their village site 50 km east of Edmonton off Hwy. 16 (Yellowhead).   One of Alberta’s largest Ukrainian dance extravaganzas featuring a variety of dance groups of all ages from across Alberta.  Other family friendly activities include a village market, musical entertainment, horse-drawn wagon rides,  traditional Ukrainian food and more.  http://www.history.alberta.ca/ukrainianvillage/default.aspx

Prairie Gardens  Its a Victoria Day Garden Party, 9:00am-6:00pm at PRAIRIE GARDENS & ADVENTURE FARM, 25 km north of Edmonton, near Bon Accord.   Celebrate Victoria Day at Prairie Gardens with flowers, delicate finger foods, earthly delights, sweet treats, free crafts, kids’ gardening workshop and petting farm too.  Pose for a photo with Queen P, take a train-ride around the farm, play with spring lambs, and plant posies. Optional high tea.    http://www.prairiegardens.org/

 

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE:

  events at REXALL PLACE:

 carrie   CARRIE UNDERWOOD: The Blown Away Tour, with Hunter Hayes, Saturday, May 18th. 

mumford   MUMFORD & SONS with special guests Michael Kiwonuka and Mystery Jets, Wednesday, May 22nd.  SOLD OUT

 

   AT THE WINSPEAR:  Full ESO schedule: http://www.winspearcentre.com/

 

century casino showroom  AT THE CENTURY CASINO SHOWROOM:

Les_McKeown__s_Bay_City_Rollers_web_01  LES McKEOWN’S BAY CITY ROLLERS, Friday, May 17th http://edmonton.cnty.com/showroom/showroom-events/upcoming-events/

 

 RIVER CREE  AT THE RIVER CREE RESORT & CASINO, THE VENUE:

OAK RIDGE  THE OAK RIDGE BOYS, Saturday, May 18th, Doors 7pm, Show 8pm.  SOLD OUT

 

Citadel AT THE CITADEL THEATRE:

LATE NIGHT CABARET, Citadel Theatre, In The Club, Thursday, May 16th, 9pm.  Presented by Citadel Theatre and Rapid Fire Theatre.

MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT, Citadel Theatre, final week, an added performance Sunday, May 19th: http://www.citadeltheatre.com/

 

7:30pm, Sunday, May 12, 2pm.  Capitol Theatre, Fort Edmonton Park. http://www.fortedmontonpark.ca/plan-your-trip/events.aspx?itemID=3488

 

DIE-NASTY – THE ONGOING IMPROVISED SOAP OPERA, Varscona Theatre, now playing through May 13th. http://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_recreation/festivals_events/events-calendar.aspx

 

FUNNY PEOPLE – YOU’LL SPLIT A GUT!  

YUK YUK’S at the CENTURY CASINO -   http://www.yukyuks.com/index.cfm?action=club.showdetails&venueID=2480                                                               

AT THE COMIC STRIP – http://www.thecomicstrip.ca/default.asp

 

WHAT’S ON TV?

justin-bieber-william-650-430THE 2013 BILLBOARD MUSIC AWARDS on CTV,  Sunday, May 19th, 8pm.   TRACY MORGAN hosts, performances will feature superstars teaming up together including WILL I AM & JUSTIN BEIBER, JENNIFER LOPEZ & PITBULL plus JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, TAYLOR SWIFT, BRUNO MARS, THE BAND PERRY and PRINCE who also receives the Billboard Icon Award. MADONNA gets Top Touring Act.   http://www.billboard.com/articles/events/bbma-2013/1562664/billboard-music-awards-playlist-and-collaborations-revealed

  MAD MEN Season 6,  (AMC) http://www.amctv.com/shows/mad-men – Sundays,  7PM, + repeats again at 9pm & 11pm.  http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/05/arts/television/mad-men-season-6-focuses-more-on-women.html?_r=0

Here is the schedule for the late night and talk shows for the coming couple of weeks: http://www.interbridge.com/lineups.html

GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULIS TONIGHT (CBC TV)   Friday, Best of the Week. Full schedule: http://www.cbc.ca/strombo/weekly-schedule/guests-week-of-february-11-2013.html?p=tv&s=tv_schedule

ET and ET CANADA (GLOBAL TV) Weeknights at 7 & 7:30pm.

OWN-Oprah Winfrey Network:  http://ownca.oprah.com/Home.aspx  OPRAH’S NEXT CHAPTER:   http://www.oprah.com/own-oprahs-next-chapter/oprahs-next-chapter.html    OPRAH’S MASTER CLASS:

snl-1641-affleck-promo-hero  SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE  Season Finale(Global, NBC): Host: BEN AFFLECK,  Musical Guest: KANYE WEST

Other weekend season finales:

Friday, May 17th:

GRIMM (NBC/CTV)

UNDERCOVER BOSS (CBS), SHARK TANK (ABC/CTV2), NIKITA (CW)

Saturday, May 18th:

DOCTOR WHO (BBC America), SNL (GLOBAL/NBC)

Sunday, May 19th:

ALL STAR CELEBRITY APPRENTICE (NBC)

THE CLEVELAND SHOW,  THE SIMPSONS, FAMILY GUY (FOX/GLOBAL)

 

MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND, reviews from imdb.com:

Star Trek STAR TREK: INTO DARKNESS starring Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana.  Directed by J.J. Abrams   http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1408101/?ref_=hm_inth_t1

 

 

  THE ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM has several exciting exhibitions on now, 12845  102nd Avenue.  http://www.royalalbertamuseum.ca/

Come enjoy the spring air and get some exercise at the STRATHCONA WILDERNESS CENTRE.  Trek their 12 km of trails winding through the woodland around Bennett Lake, just east of Sherwood Park.  They offer a wide variety of recreational programs.  Open daily 9am-4:30pm, 52535 Range Road 212, Strathcona County, 780-922-3939

 

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What’s For Dinner? Bugs & Insects! -by Shirley McQueen

Posted on May 15, 2013 by shirley

Planning a dinner party this long holiday weekend?  How ’bout Grasshopper A L’Orange? Or Cricket Casserole?

insects_for_food_jpg_size_xxlarge_promo  North America, and the west in general, seems to have an aversion to the idea of bugs for dinner but much of the rest of the world has a healthy appetite for entomophagy, the consumption of insects as food.

fried-locust-food-thailand_67382_600x450  Fried Locusts anyone?  No kidding… the next big revolution for foodies may just be the world of insects and bugs.   They are readily available worldwide and far less expensive to harvest and maintain, important for developing nations.  Plus they emit considerably less greenhouse gases than cattle, pigs etc.  Many insects are packed with protein, fiber, good fats, and vital minerals—as much or more than many other food sources – also very important for developing nations.    Many of them are packed with flavour too.  For instance, 100 grams of red ant (one of thousands of ant species) provide some 14 grams of protein (more than eggs), almost 48 grams of calcium,  a nice punch of iron and several other nutrients.  All that in less than 100 calories and barely any carbs.

The United Nations has just issued a new report touting a food revolution that could be good for you and good for the planet:  http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/05/14/go_eat_some_bugs_un_report_says.html

Here are eight such beasts that could be your gateway appetizer:  http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2013/13/130514-edible-insects-entomophagy-science-food-bugs-beetles/

 

Posted in Edmonton Community, Food & Recipes, Garden, Health & Fitness, Home & Organizing, How to Look Good Naked, Kids & Family, Shopping, Travel | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

You Can Bike Two Could Use Your Help -by Shirley McQueen

Posted on May 14, 2013 by shirley

  The You Can Bike Two program launched over the weekend here in Edmonton.  They outreach to youth and children with special needs teaching them everything about biking – from how to ride, to maintaining a bike, even how to teach others to ride.  The following is a description of their activities.  If you can help with some of what they’re looking for that would be awesome!

1.  The Spoke is a free program for youth aged 12-17.  Over the course of a 6 to 8 week program, participants learn how to repair and maintain a bike from start to finish.  Each participant leaves The Spoke with their very own bicycle.  Youth from Edmonton’s urban core benefit from this program and have the chance to become instructors in future sessions with other youth from the community.

2.  You Can Ride Two is a free “learn to ride” class for children 8 and older with co-ordination challenges or other special needs.   Over the course of 5 to 7 weeks, the skills involved in riding a two-wheeler are taught in small manageable steps to boost  confidence and promote success.
This class has been running since 2004 and has seen over 100 kids graduate from training wheels to the trails.  This program would not be possible without the dedication of a number of amazing volunteers.  Our 2013 course is completely full, though new volunteers are always welcome!

2a. We are working on being more research based and are currently doing a study on
teaching children with a mild intellectual disability to ride a bike.  We are recruiting children aged 8-14 who are not yet able to ride.
2b. Our ultimate goal is that all individuals will have experience the freedom that comes with riding a bicycle.  Our website www.youcanridetwo.ca was created as a place where parents with great ideas, therapists experienced in teaching cycling, individuals passionate about cycling and anyone mechanically inclined can come together to share ideas on how to help kids get riding.
NAIT has been instrumental in getting the website up and running- students from their digital media class and graphics communication class have done an amazing job.  We have lots more information to share but need some more help with technical part!

3.  You Can Bike Too is a “borrow a bike” program for children with more severe disabilities. Adapted bikes or trikes are donated to the program (or purchased through grants or donations) and EBC fixes them up so that they are mechanically sound.  Pediatric physiotherapists and occupational therapists help assess the children to see which bike is best for each child and what supports and adaptations are needed to make a child ride most independently.  Adaptations (such as back rests or foot pedals) are provided by a company called Specialty Designs and volunteer bicycle mechanics help us pull it all together.  We would appreciate any tandem or adapted bikes, trikes, components (e.g. toe pedal clips or new helmets)  or monetary donations so we can grow our pool and would love the help of any mechanically minded individuals who can help with bike maintenance.
Additional partners in the You Can Bike Too initiative include:

- the Brick Sport Central (bike donations to go with adapted components)

- the Canadian Paraplegic Association (hand cycle fleet coordination)

- the Cerebral Palsy Association of Alberta (technical support)

- the Children’s Ability Fund (funding for individual adaptations)

- the city of Edmonton (storage)

- Elves Special Needs Society (gym space)

- President’s Choice Children’s Charity (funding)

- Robin Hood Association (bike donations)

Also many of the other community groups supporting children with disabilities (e.g. the
Edmonton Down Syndrome Society, the Spina Bifida Association, the Paralympic
Sports Association,the Alberta Association for Community Living, the Glenrose
and Free 2BMe) are involved in discussions to see how we can best work together
to support children and their families.

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Dual Purpose Household Items

Posted on May 12, 2013 by Shannon

I always love the blogs and websites that let you in on the secret double uses of regular household items. I used to watch that show “How Clean Is Your House” and I loved it when they would make the home made “washing up powder” out of just regular stuff from around the house (yes I realize that’s kind of lame but I was an only child and had to make my own fun!). Anyhow I thought since the weather has improved and we can now open our windows and do some serious spring cleaning here are some double uses for regular household items :

Newspapers – if you one of the few that still reads newspapers there’s use one but did you know that newspapers can also be used to clean windows? It’s true – I didn’t believe it either but this is one of those tips I got from How Clean Is Your House. Once you’ve cleaned the windows use the newspaper to do a bit of polishing (this is great by the way for the glass on fireplaces) and it also leaves a residue that helps keep the dirt away.

Baking Soda and Vinegar - Baking soda and vinegar have a ton of uses on their own but when put together they can make an awesome drain cleaner and the best part is…there’s no real chemicals so it’s not harmful if accidently ingested. Pour some baking soda in a clog or dirty drain, let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes and then wash it down with white vinegar.

WD40 – If you have little ones then at some point you’ve ended up with crayons either on the wall or on the floor. Sometimes it’s not even on purpose it’s because of some over exuberant colouring and BAM you’ve got a line of green across your table. Easy, just spray some wd40 on the crayons and wipe it right off and do a once over aftewards with a soapy rag.

Buttons - My grandmother has a HUGE tin full of buttons, because she’s always knitting and who knows…maybe one day you need a button. If you’ve got some buttons hanging around use them to keep your earrings together. The holes are the perfect size and you’ll never have to go searching for a matching pair again.

Olive Oil – Have you run out of shaving cream and just not felt like running to the store to get more? Well you can always use some soap although I know some people balk at that so try some olive oil. It will keep the razor burn away and it will also moisturize so you won’t have to worry about putting lotion on afterward.

Alka Seltzer – who knew that alka seltzers would make a good toilet cleaner. If you’ve got people come over and you need to do a quick spritz up on your loo drop a couple of alka seltzers in and let it sit for about 10 minutes and then scrub the grime away….I wonder what it does to your stomach?

Do you have any dual purpose ideas? I love this!!! And the more I find the more I SAY I’m going to use…I’m actually going to have to one of these days

- Shannon

 

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Keep Allergens Out Of Your Home

Posted on May 11, 2013 by Shannon

 

I never had allergies until I moved to Ontario and then suddenly any type of flower would make me feel like my head was going to explode. I’ve just sort of dealt with the spring and summer snow mold and flowers and all that junk but now my daughter may have allergies. At 2 she can’t really be tested for it yet but she has to have a little asthma pump so that she doesn’t spend all day coughing and that means I finally have to worry about keeping allergens out of my home. I found a blog with some great tips and I’ll pass them along :

Evening gardening – pollen levels peak between 5 am and 10 am so save your gardening and yard work for later in the day. Keep your grass short and avoid planting high pollen plants near doors and windows.

Wash the allergens away – As much as it’s nice to hang laundry outside to dry during the spring and summer months that may be making your allergies even worse. Shake your clothes after you’ve worn them outside. If your pets are in and out keep a brush handy to brush the excess hair off and wet wipes to clean their paws. Place mats on both sides of the door to catch all before coming into your house.

Ventilate – Invest in crawl-space vent fans to keep humidity levels below 50 percent, which will thwart the spread of mold and mildew. When it’s warm, opt for air-conditioning, instead of open windows, to cool the house.

Nix the mold – Get rid of any stagnant water in your yard (it’s also a breeding ground for mosquitoes) and keep soil in your garden moist but not damp to keep the mold at bay. And although I love the smell of rain don’t linger outside or open the windows after a fresh rain.

Everyone has tips on beating their allergies so I’d love to hear yours – we only get so many weeks of summer I’d hate to spend it cooped up inside because my head feels like an over inflated balloon!

- Shannon

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