GRANDE PRAIRIE’S STOMPEDE IS BACK IN THE SADDLE

Immerse yourself in western heritage at the 2024 Grande Prairie Stompede, May 29 to June 2 at Evergreen Park!

Catch pro-rodeo action, watch the chuckwagon races and incredible infield performers, enjoy live music in the beer gardens, bask in the glow of the West Coast Amusements Midway, and more!

West Coast Amusements Midway Schedule

The Grande Prairie Stompede Association is thrilled to welcome the West Coast Amusements Midway to our 2024 event!

Thursday, May 30    3 pm – 11 pm
Friday, May 31        12 pm – 11 pm
Saturday, June 1     12 pm – 11 pm
Sunday, June 2       12 pm – 6 pm

Pre-Sale Wristbands (available until May 29) | $40
On Location Wristbands (beginning May 30) | $50

https://gpstompede.com/midway/

Event Schedule
https://gpstompede.com/event-schedule/

Get Your Tickets
https://gpstompede.com/tickets/

Box Office for All Tickets
https://gpstompede.com/

Proudly supported by 2day FM & mygpnow.com

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Saddle Hills County

The magnificent vistas, the pure air and water, the bluest of blue skies and strong, caring and thriving communities … it doesn’t get any better than Saddle Hills County.   A rural community situated in the Central Peace Region of northwestern Alberta, along the southern banks of the Peace River and the BC border. Saddle Hills County is the perfect place to visit, purchase a vacation property or go all in and call it your family’s home.

Hidden Gems

Saddle Hills County is filled with a richness of natural treasures and hidden gems. There is an abundance of campgrounds and parks which are bustling all summer long. Whether you want to camp by the serene Spring Lake or Hilltop Lake and witness a billion stars at night, experience year round trout fishing at Shell True North Pond, boat on the mighty Peace River at Cotillion Park, or explore the trails at Moonshine Lake Provincial Park, you will find a plethora of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy in Saddle Hills County.

Come For A Visit

Besides the outstanding Area Campgrounds and outdoor adventures to take part in, be sure to also discover the “glamping” options in Saddle Hills. There are many extremely comfortable and affordable accommodations available to you throughout Saddle Hills.  Jump on to the Social media platforms of The County and our local Community Groups to stay abreast of the variety of events happening throughout the year, from sporting events to community festivals, live entertainment events and workshops everyone in your family will enjoy. There is always fun to be found in Saddle Hills.

Make Yourself At Home 

Saddle Hills County also has a brisque real estate market right now for anyone who would like to call it home or to maybe purchase a vacation property to develop. There’s nothing like the excitement of packing up the family and heading to “the cabin” for the long weekend or a week or two of relaxation. Saddle Hills County boasts top quality infrastructure, utilities and services to our valued residents, landowners and many businesses and industry that have chosen to locate here.

Stay Informed

Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer at heart looking for your next quest, or if you’re looking for a spectacular place for your family to call home, Saddle Hills County should be at the very top of your list because wilderness is our back yard!

[caption id="attachment_119927" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Two women are rowing kayaks in the peaceful lake surrounded with reeds and forest in warm summer day.[/caption]

You can find out more about Saddle Hills County online at SaddleHills.ab.ca or on all social media platforms.

Find us on Instagram and Facebook

Check out our upcoming events!

The post The Wilderness is Our Back Yard appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention

The Vision of the Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention (RCSP) is to promote mental well-being, raise awareness, eliminate stigma, and educate to reduce suicide, suicidal behaviours and their impacts. 

Started in 1982, the RCSP has been a staple organization in Grande Prairie with the mission of raising awareness and creating conversations surrounding suicide and mental well-being while acknowledging that talking about suicide is lifesaving.

According to statistics, Canada 

• Approximately 12 people die by suicide each day
• Approximately 4,500 deaths by suicide per year
• Suicide rates are approximately three times higher among men compared to women
• Suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth and young adults (15-34 years)

With programs, support groups and training tailored to meet the diverse needs of those seeking help, the RSCP is committed to empowering people as advocates and change makers by offering workshops, support groups and presentations that not only educate but assist in eliminating the stigma associated with suicide. 

Some of the programs, workshops and support groups include:

• Tough Enough To Talk About It
• Gryphon & Pheonix Youth Groups
• Men’s Talk & Men’s Support Group
• Introduction to Mental Health
• Understanding Grief & Loss

Through its unwavering commitment to suicide prevention and mental health advocacy, the Centre serves as a beacon of light for those navigating life's darkest moments.

Recently, the RCSP expanded its outreach efforts by opening an office in Grimshaw, AB, in 2023. By fostering an environment of empathy and acceptance, individuals are encouraged to seek help without fear of judgment or shame. This inclusivity is reflected in the diverse range of programs and initiatives offered, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and supported regardless of background or circumstance.

Making a Difference, One Life at a Time

By fostering a community of compassion, understanding, and support, they break down barriers and pave the way for a brighter future for all.

However, the work of the RCSP is far from over. As long as individuals continue to struggle with mental health challenges and suicidal thoughts, the need for organizations like the Resource Centre will remain critical. It's up to all of us to support their mission through volunteering, fundraising, or simply spreading awareness.

The Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention stands as a testament to the power of community solidarity and the transformative potential of compassionate support. 

Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention
#200, 10014 99 Street Grande Prairie, AB, Canada T8V 3N4
National Crisis Line: Call or Text 9-8-8
Mental Health Help Line: 1-877-303-2642
Hope For Wellness: 1-855-242-3310
Trans Lifeline: 1-877-330-6366
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Youth Crisis Text Line: 686868

The post Making a Difference, One Life at a Time appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

Isn’t it funny how life can do a 360 degree turn and change on just an idea that you never saw it coming?  It does happen!

Back in December 2004, with Ray working in camp in Grande Prairie, they decided to move the family from the Okanagan to Grande Prairie to make life way easier to live… and it worked! Time went on, their daughters graduated high school in Sexsmith, one went on to graduate from GPRC.  The kids are grown and successful and everyone is living happy lives.

Then, one day about 12 years ago, almost on a whim, Ray decided he wanted to keep himself busy by starting a hot dog cart! Yes, selling hot dogs when he’s never done anything like that before! All was good, it started as a bit of a roadside enterprise where he learned and grew to doing occasional smaller events. Nice… Ray’s happy, the family is happy, and the customers are happy too!

Unexpected Growth

Then, in the blink of an eye it seems, BullDogs Gourmet Dogs, that little roadside hot dog cart, evolved and grew into running the concessions in the Clairmont Arena! This was a great experience where lessons were learned, and recipes perfected! It’s where the 12 sauces were developed that are still used today in the food truck and sports lounge!  A few years later, unfortunately, the Clairmont Arena shut down, and that’s when the BIG change happened!  A food truck was purchased, and Bulldogs Gourmet Dogs got mobile… and IT ROCKED! Everyone loved Bulldogs Gourmet Dogs, which meant larger events, catering and corporate events too! This turned into one busy family owned and operated business!

 The Ultimate Transition

With the food truck a huge success and busy as all get out, in October 2023 an opportunity presented itself that just couldn’t be turned down. The Lounge at the Crosslink County Sportsplex became available and thus, with a tiny bit of fear and a whole lot of excitement in our hearts, Bulldogs Sports Lounge came to be!  We now have 2 Bulldogs in our life! That’s right, a bricks and mortar establishment with employees, a liquor license, regular hours and a very successful food truck operation too!

The Mighty Bulldogs

So now, Bulldogs Sports Lounge at the Crosslink County Sportsplex is becoming a fantastic success with a steadily growing client base, delicious, interesting food and a reputation for being a fantastic family destination. It’s also a great place for you and your pals to watch the game seeing as Bulldogs Sports Lounge has 5 Big Screen TV’s, including a massive 85-inch model! In case you were wondering, Bulldogs Gourmet Dogs Food Truck is still operational and staying busy in the summer months with corporate and catering jobs like weddings, showers, family reunions, community events and more!

So if you have an idea, a thought, a whim, don’t ignore it. Dive into it, feed it, help it grow because you never know, you may end up with 2 Bulldogs to change your life too!

Bull Dogs Gourmet Dogs
County Sportsplex 
7407 108 St Clairmont
587-299-4305

The post 2 Bulldogs Are Way Better Than One appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

Pain is the Problem

It may have started years ago, a nagging sensation that always seemed to be there and is now getting worse. You may have made the game winning diving catch in your softball league championship game, but now your knee reminds you of it every day! Or, it could be the 20 some-odd years at work, doing the same movements 40 hours a week keeping you up at night.  No matter how you got where you are today, if pain is an unwelcome part of your life, Progressive Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinic will develop a customized treatment plan to help you deal with your pain.

Whether it is overcoming an injury, degenerative pain, repetitive pain, sports related, an ailment, or your body is just aging, the team of experts at Progressive Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinic will help you eliminate or manage your pain as quickly as possible.

It Takes a Team

At Progressive Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinic, they have assembled an outstanding team of experts to help you develop a customized program to help you improve your life! From physiotherapists, massage therapists, structural integration specialists, aromatherapists, acupuncturists, to the use of Chinese Medicine, German New Medicine, cupping therapy, low intensity laser therapy and there’s even an emotional support dog to greet you… they have so many avenues to help you find your road to pain elimination: physiotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, structural integration, kinesiology, chiropractic, low level laser therapy, nutrition and German New Medicine consults, and so much more.

What to Expect on Your Visit

Progressive Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinic is the only multidisciplinary wellness clinic in Grande Prairie with a multitude of therapists and practitioners assembled under one roof! You will be greeted by Progressive Physiotherapy’s emotional support dog when you arrive. Their courteous and knowledgeable administrative support assistants will greet you and help you get settled in for your visit. For your convenience, they offer direct billing to your benefits providers. Progressive also provides one-on-one therapist treatments and hands on treatments with confidential private rooms to protect your privacy.

Here is what just a few of their clients have said about Progressive Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinic.

Review #1
I've seen Krista (physiotherapy) and Andrej (massage therapy), both are absolutely incredible, and I have recommended them to anyone who will listen. I had headaches for months and after one visit with Krista, they're gone. Krista is very hands on, compared to other physiotherapists who just give exercises to do. Andrej is thorough, extremely talented, and asks all the questions to make your experience comfortable. They are both miracle workers. Do yourself a favor and book your appointment!

Review #2
They were great. Right from the beginning with dealing with the assistant at the front desk up to when I left. Bejoy was amazing and was very informative and very helpful. He explained so I can understand. He gave me hope that with hard work, I can correct this concern and feel better. Having Ellie there was great as I love dogs, and she is very sweet. Thank you again for your help as this has been the most help I have received from any of the physiotherapists I have seen for this concern. I would recommend Progressive Physiotherapy & Wellness.

Review #3
By far the best physiotherapy business in Grande Prairie! The staff there are professional, kind and seem to genuinely care about the health and comfort of their clientele. My husband and I have both seen Krista for physio and Kaylee for massage therapy. They are wonderful and have both helped us so much in our physical health journey. If you want a place with an amazing staff and gorgeous new office, I strongly recommend checking Progressive Physiotherapy & Wellness out!

For a collaborative approach to getting you better as quick as possible, visit the experts at one of the two Progressive Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinics and set up your consultation today, or, you can book your appointment online.

Progressive Physiotherapy & Wellness Clinic
115 – 8805 Resources Road, and at Iron Nation in Grande Prairie
(825) 412-0289
http://www.progressivephysiotherapy.ca

HOURS
Monday - Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

The post Pain is the Problem appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

GuardaVent is a Vent Cover, But Better

Got small children? Then you know how curious they can be when learning to crawl. The floor, and anything reachable from the floor, is their playground! So, when they discover that they can lift a standard vent cover off all by themselves – well now, there’s a fun new hole for them to shove their toys down. Or worse! That’s why local Grande Prairie mom Michele invented a child proof vent cover that solves all the vent cover problems for parents.

The Background

GuardaVent is invented by a local mom of two from right here in Grande Prairie. The Karymi Company name (pronounced carry-me) comes from a mesh of Michele’s family’s names: Kari, Kasey, Ryder & Michele. Kari is her husband, and Ryder and Kasey are their adorable kids!

GuardaVent offers more than just safety – it's also designed with convenience in mind. Installation is a breeze with GuardaVent. Made from durable yet lightweight plastic, GuardaVent covers easily attach to the inside of the vent, without causing any damage to the flooring. They even include screws for quick and hassle-free installation. All you need is a drill and a #2 Phillips bit, and you'll have GuardaVent securely in place, ready to do the work of keeping everyone safe.

How They Work

⦁ GuardaVent attaches to the inside of the vent with no damage to flooring.
⦁ Lid stays closed with two childproof tabs.
⦁ Looks great in any flooring.
⦁ Choose from four colours to match your home.
⦁ Fits 3”x10” and 4”x10” vent openings.

Three Reason to Choose GuardaVent Covers:

⦁ Protects against injuries from open vents.
⦁ Keeps large objects out of the vents.
⦁ Gives you peace of mind in rooms where kids play.

Free Shipping

Kids are expensive. Life is expensive. That’s why shipping is FREE on orders over $40 in Canada and the U.S.

To Order & For More Information

Measure twice, order once! If you’re ready to order or just want to know more about GuardaVent, visit the website at www.karymi.com.

Like and follow our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/GuardaVentbyKarymi/
Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/guardavent_by_karymi/

The post GuardaVent Made In Canada Childproof Vent Covers Make Homes Safe appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

Successful leaders are always pushing forward, and it’s all thanks to self-management and proper management of others. Success happens when managers and leaders have personal vision, purpose, and defined core values. Today’s change-management skills are essential. Learning how to communicate effectively, align with employees and colleagues, and help with smooth succession transitions is vital to the success of any organization.

Motivating any team towards one common goal, and effectively setting smart goals with the right priorities for the benefit of the business, are a winning recipe. People mastery, managing and leading covers an array of essential skills that are important in any successful team. Learning how to communicate in an engaging way, coupled with influence, and giving effective professional feedback are essential as a successful leader.

Learning Outcomes:

• Fundamentals of effective management & leadership.

• Knowing self to better understand and lead others (using DISC).

• Developing others with Envision’s highly effective 4-stages (E1-E4) of effective employee development & engagement.

• Knowing why and how to create your team’s own engaging Mission/Vision/Values, then how to align this your overall organization.

• Understanding the impact of change, and how to help others navigate the stages of change.

• Dealing with resistance to change by ‘Leading Above the Line’.

• Learning to deliver effective feedback confidently.

• Learn strategies for effective listening.

What You’ll Learn:

"This is a great opportunity for our industry to grow our internal talent into tomorrow’s leaders with the energy sector. Investing in our people today will create future leaders of tomorrow.”

Gurpreet Lail, Enserva CEO & President

This training event will be held on June 12th & June 13th from 8:30am - 4:30pm.

Hotel Bookings:

To book our discounted rate of $149 plus tax per night at The Pomeroy Hotel, click on the link below. This rate will be available only until May 29th.

www.pomeroyhotel.com

To Find Out More:

Envision Group Ltd. and Enserva Energy are pleased to partner to bring you: “Two Day Energy Operations Leadership Training”. 

 

Website: www.envisiongroup.ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/envisiongroup.ca

The post Two Day Energy Operations Leadership Training appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

Grad & Wedding Attire Stains

First off, lets start with something that’s happening right now. Grads and Weddings. And what to do with the gowns after the big day!

Before we get into that, let’s go to the biggest night of your life, yes – your grad or wedding. You’re having fun but suddenly – oops, what’s that? A stain?! Not to panic – Richmond Dry Cleaners is all over it!

Here’s 3 tips from the professionals on how to protect your formal wear from stains that have the potential to last longer than your memories.

•  Don’t treat it at home as this could make it worse. Best to leave that stain to the professionals.
• Don’t Wait. Time is not your friend when it comes to stain removal. Bring in your outfit ASAP.
• Document it! It’s your night and you’re going to be busy, so ask a friend, a parent, or your Type-A cousin to help you document what exactly that stain is, and prevent the “mystery stain” confusion when dropping off for professional cleaning.

Grad & Wedding Attire Preservation

Preserve your memories with professional cleaning of your Grad and Wedding attire. Whether you want to keep it or sell it, your formal gowns and suits should be professionally cleaned. And Grad and Wedding gowns can be placed in a memory box.

[embed]https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=168924604495312[/embed]

Wedding and Grad are some of the most important days in your life. Richmond Dry Cleaners will help you cherish that memory with their gown preservation service. They meticulously clean it and then store it in an acid-free container with a viewing pane.

Richmond Dry Cleaners uses only the safest, most effective methods developed for cleaning, preservation and restoration of all formal gown fabrics.

For more information on stains and formal wear preservation you can visit the following websites.
www.richmondcleaners.ca/wedding-gowns
www.facebook.com/richmonddrycleaners/photos/10160153555554518
www.facebook.com/richmonddrycleaners/photos/10158523619444518

Enjoy Your Summer

What would you do this summer if you had more time? Let Richmond Dry Cleaners give you the gift of more free time with their Wash n Fold program! Hey, adulting is hard. Your weekends should be stress free!

Here’s some examples of what you could be doing instead of laundry this weekend.

• Play a round of golf.
• Go for a hike. Check out Moonshine Lake, the Waxwing Trail, Wapiti Nordic Trails, or hit the road and take a trip over to Muskeg Falls.
• Take in a summer movie at the drive in, in the park, or enjoy a movie under the stars in your own backyard.
• Plan a scavenger or a treasure hunt with your family or friends.
• Go swimming! Head to a lake, a river, or an outdoor pool. Stay cool, have fun, and don’t forget the sunscreen!

[embed]https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=587916682029821[/embed]

And for more information on Richmond Dry Cleaners’ Wash n Fold program, check out the website at: www.richmondcleaners.ca/wash-n-fold

Working Hard

We know many of you are still working hard this summer, so take advantage of those days off and drop off your coveralls to Richmond Dry Cleaners. Bring in your dirt and grime and save your household washer and dryer from a load they aren’t really equipped to handle. Plus, you can take advantage of their same day service!! Drop those work clothes off in the morning and pick ‘em up at the end of the day. What can we tell ya! The dirtiest come to them for a reason.

For more, visit the website at: www.richmondcleaners.ca/coveralls-and-gloves

To Sum it Up

Enjoy your summer, stop doing laundry on your days off, and let Richmond Dry Cleaners do the “dirty work”. Your professional dry cleaner since 1961. Same day service – in by 10:00 am and out by 5:00 pm. Conveniently located on 100 Street in Grande Prairie.

Get all the dirt at: www.richmondcleaners.ca

 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/richmonddrycleaners/

The post Enjoy Your Summer – Let Richmond Dry Cleaners Do The ‘Dirty Work’ appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

Digital Marketing is a sought after profession. The landscape of the marketing profession is ever-changing and it is imperative to have digital marketing skills. Companies are seeking skilled professionals to help them bridge the digital divide in the marketing industry.

For entrepreneurs, digital marketing also provides the skills needed to successfully market the business.

Many of our students choose this program to either become an entrepreneur or work with a company in their marketing department.

This program is great for entrepreneurs, whether they are interested in becoming digital marketing professionals and helping clients with their marketing efforts or supporting their own marketing initiatives of their business.

This is a hands-on course and is very skills based. It provides the opportunity to create digital assets for a business or a digital marketing portfolio that can be presented to prospective clients or employers.

At the end of the program, each student has a list of digital assets they can use towards their company or for attracting clients and employers, such as a branding guide, a social media campaign strategy, push and pull content, and a website.

The student will leave with many skills and tangible assets to help them achieve their goal. Here are some features of our digital marketing programs:

• Learn how to develop marketing strategy plans and improve decisions with marketing information
• Distinguish the concepts of managing operations of a small business
• Evaluate the importance of formulating and following a business organizational plan
• Implement and develop online digital marketing tools and social media strategies to create an online business presence that enhances, supports and represents the brand
• Construct a stylistic approach to content curating and writing online to successfully market businesses online
• Develop a website considering brand recognition, business strategy and optimal user experience and engagement
• Enhance and monitor the success of your online digital tools through implementing search engine optimization, engagement strategies and objectively analyzing metrics

Canada Job Bank reports more than 100,000 job opportunities in digital marketing averaging $24 an hour.

Job Opportunities

By taking our program, you can qualify for the following positions:

• Social Media Community Manager
• Marketing Assistant
• Marketing Coordinator
• Digital Marketing Coordinator
• Marketing Consultant-Advertising
• Communications Specialist
• Event Marketing Specialist
• Media Coordinator
• Public Relations Consultant

*Source:  Government of Canada

Digital Marketing Certificate-17 Weeks

Begin your career in digital marketing, or upgrade your skills, by enrolling in our Digital Marketing Certificate program. This is a 17-week program that can bring new skills and job opportunities!

This program covers the fundamentals of digital marketing, including how to choose the best digital marketing tools and social media platforms to reach a targeted demographic and enhance engagement.
Upon completing our certificate, students will be confident in utilizing digital marketing tools to best represent, build and develop businesses online.

Business Management-34 Week Program

The Business Management Digital Marketing Program provides training in digital marketing & Business.

Throughout Canada, there is a great need for competent business professionals who have the potential to work in a managerial capacity.

This program covers the fundamentals of working in any business environment, providing you with the managerial skills companies want.

The specialization in digital marketing allows you to further differentiate yourself in this competitive job market, setting you on the path to management success within the digital marketing industry.

Website: www.careercitycollege.ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CareerCityCollege

The post Jumpstart Your Digital Marketing Career at Career City College appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

TD Bank Group (TD) launches the TD Scholarship for Indigenous Peoples, a new scholarship program tailored specifically for students from the Indigenous community, managed by AFOA Canada. TD understands the unique challenges and systemic barriers we face as Indigenous Peoples. Which is why we have worked closely with TD to customize a scholarship program focused on the needs of students from the Indigenous community. 

"It's important that students from Indigenous communities have equitable access to education. The TD Scholarship for Indigenous Peoples aims to help provide students from Indigenous communities with the financial freedom and stability to explore the benefit of a post-secondary education and work education. I am thrilled to see this program launch and look forward to continuing our relationship with AFOA Canada." – Doris Bear, Vice President, Indigenous Banking, TD Bank Group 

The scholarship program will provide 25 successful applicants with $15k annually (with a maximum of $60k across 4 years) to be put towards tuition costs and living expenses for the duration of their studies. Additionally, recipients will be offered an internship opportunity with TD to gain valuable work experience aligned to their career aspirations. Internship opportunities will be available for students throughout their time as a recipient. 

“The new TD Scholarship program will be transformational in the lives of the Indigenous students” says Terry Goodtrack, President and CEO, AFOA Canada. “It will set them up for success in achieving their academic goals and chosen career path” 

Scholarships are available for First Nations, Métis and Inuit who are members / citizens of a First Nation, Métis or Inuit community. You must be a permanent resident of Canada and have applied for or are currently enrolled in a full-time, minimum 2-year program with an approved post-secondary institution in Canada. 

Applications will open Friday, November 18, 2022, at 4:30pm ET, and must be submitted by no later than January 16, 2023, at 5:00pm ET. For complete information about the program, please visit: www.afoa.ca/td. 

Background: 

AFOA Canada 

AFOA Canada, founded in 1999, strives towards their mandate to help Indigenous Peoples better manage and govern their communities and organizations through a focus on enhancing management, finance and 

governance practices and skills. It is the only organization in Canada that focuses on the capacity development and day-to-day needs of those Indigenous professionals who are working in all areas of management, finance, band administration, leadership, and program management—We are Building a Community of Professionals. 

TD Bank Group 

At TD, we recognize there is more work to be done on our collective journey towards Truth and Reconciliation. Supporting community initiatives that promote a connection to the land, enhance financial education, and foster a sense of belonging is important. We believe society is stronger when we work together and that we can help be a catalyst for dialogue to bring people, communities, and cultures together. 

The post TD Scholarship for Indigenous Peoples appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

Safety behind the wheel

Driving in Grande Prairie, and throughout Alberta, can take you on a rocky road trip. There’s many things to be aware of when you’re travelling along the highway with passing semi’s or taking a leisurely journey throughout downtown.

Once in your vehicle, you buckle your seatbelt, put your phone down, and proceed with caution. You do this for your safety, and the safety of others. However, one thing you may not consider as a safety issue, is that chip or crack in your windshield.

The Glass Shop in Grande Prairie wants to remind you of the importance fixing a chip before it splits and you unwillingly inherit the dangers of driving with a cracked windshield.

A cracked windshield has dangers such as obscured vision, lessens the structural integrity of your windshield, significantly reduces your protection, and decreases the total value of your vehicle.

Windshields are specially designed to ensure the safety of you and your passengers. Even if an extreme impact causes your windshield to chip or crack, you still have two layers of glass laminated together for your protection. If one layer of glass breaks, the laminate and the inside layer of glass holds your windshield together, keeping pieces of glass from injuring you and your occupants. But just because you have two layers doesn’t mean that you should ignore a damaged windshield. Even a small crack signifies that the structural integrity of the glass has been compromised. Think of it like a helmet. A damaged windshield no longer provides the level of protection intended.

If the crack expands, or worse, reaches the edge of the windshield, the glass may have to be replaced as soon as possible, and guess what? Driving your vehicle in that condition is not recommended.  Again, this is an issue of your safety.

So the next time you “buckle up”, check to see if there are any chips or cracks compromising your safety. If you see anything that could cause you trouble take it to The Glass Shop. They’re locally owned and operated with over 25 years of experience in keeping motorists safe behind the glass.

When your windshield is cracked or chipped, come see Jason at The Glass Shop so you can stay safe, stay protected, and save money.

Remember, it’s called a shield for a reason.

website: https://theglassshopgp.com/
phone: 780-830-5565
address: 101, 11401-98 Ave Grande Prairie AB T9V 5S5

The post Safety behind the wheel appeared first on My Grande Prairie Now.

There’s a child waiting for your friendship… become a Mentor.

The Cost of Doing Nothing

Many young people find themselves in vulnerable situations and facing adversities such as low confidence, mental health concerns, family violence, identity issues or challenging living conditions, which puts these youth at risk of not reaching their full potential. Imagine what they will become because of you!

Paving the Way to Success

With the guidance and support of a mentor, these risks can be avoided, and these young people can gain confidence to achieve more - happier lives, higher incomes, and more contributions to their communities.

The Confidence to Achieve More

Mentors advise and challenge these young people, act as their champions, provide greater consistency in their lives, connect them to broader experiences, opportunities and networks, and provide safe, non-judgmental environments in which the child or youth can confide anything.

Think you’re too old? Too young? Think again… Mentors come in a variety of ages!

Mentors can be any age over 18 for community and group programs. The In-School Mentoring program welcomes adult volunteers as well as Teen Mentors (high school students) and Jr. Mentors (Jr. High students).

Which program is best for me?

Community Program (Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and Couples for Kids)

The Community mentoring program provides children and youth with a role model to talk to and share the experiences of growing up with. Through regular outings, a relationship is developed between the mentor and the mentee, which is built on trust and common interests, and is supported by our experienced case-workers. The result is a life-changing experience for both the mentor and the mentee. No experience required… if you like eating ice cream, going on adventures and trying new things, this is a great program for you!

In-School Mentoring (Adult, Teen, and Jr. Mentors) 

The In-School mentoring program provides children with a role model and a friend to talk to and share the experiences of growing up within school grounds and during the school day. For one hour a week, during the school year, mentors meet with their Little Buddies and engage in activities such as board games, crafts or just hanging out. Back to school is a ton of fun!

Group mentoring (Go Girls and Game On)

Group mentoring programs are for kids ages 11-14. They consist of 2 hour sessions over the period of 7 weeks held during school hours. Groups are facilitated by two volunteer mentors – training and curriculum provided.

Go Girls focuses on physical activity, balanced eating and self-esteem. Sessions are structured around four themes: physical activity, healthy eating, self-esteem, and communication skills.

Game On provides boys with information and support to make informed choices about a range of healthy lifestyle practices. Through non-traditional physical activities, complemented with healthy eating support, participants are engaged in life skills, communication, and emotional health discussions.

How do I get started?

• Call (780) 532-0620, they love talking to potential mentors, you guys rock!
• Visit the website bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

Phone: (780) 532-0620
Website: bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

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