Saturday, 24 September 2016

Medicine Hat Media Advertisers - Tim Weinberger

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/24/medicine-hat-media-advertisers-tim-weinberger/

ask-the-media-advertising-expert-tim-weinberger



1) If you want to reach new customers then you must advertise



There's always new business out there. Your market changes constantly. Whether it's from new families moving into the area or changing income levels which can mean changes in lifestyles, needs and buying habits. It can all lead to new potential customers for you, or for your competition. If you want a shot at that new business they need to know you're there and who you are. Advertising is the best way to get the word out.



2) Want to encourage repeat business? Then you must advertise



Customers don't have the same store loyalty they once had. Automobiles give shoppers mobility and freedom. So does the internet and online shopping options. Your business must advertise on a regular basis to give former customers a reason to return to your store instead of someone else's.



3) Advertise to influence your new and repeat customers throughout the buying cycle



People frequently go from store to store comparing prices, quality and service. Your advertising needs to reach them consistently through the entire decision-making process. An example is the average new car purchase. This can take place through an entire 13-week cycle. You want your name to be consistently fresh in their minds when they ultimately decide to make their purchase.



4) Advertising pays off over a long period



Believe it or not the advertising you do today is selling customers who may make their buying decision weeks or even months from now. By consistently advertising you get a long-term advantage over your competitors who decide to cut back or cancel their advertising. In a 5-year study of more than 3,000 companies it was determined that advertisers who maintained or expanded their advertising over that five year period saw their sales increase an average of 100%.



5) If you want to generate more store traffic then you must advertise



As a business owner you already know that continuous store traffic is the first step toward sales increases and expanding your base of shoppers. It's been shown that for every 100 items shoppers plan to buy, they make at least 30 unanticipated “in-store” purchases.



6) Advertising helps to generate new business...even on your slowest days



Businesses that succeed are generally strong, steady advertisers. An aggressive and consistent approach to your advertising almost always brings added success in your sales. Advertising will generate new customers and sales now, and in the future...even on your slowest days.



7) For a healthy positive image you must advertise



Rumors and bad news travel fast. Steady advertising will correct misleading gossip and any “overstated” bad news. When your advertising is vigorous and positive it will bring shoppers into your store regardless of the current economy.



8) You must advertise to maintain store morale and attract the best employees



When an advertising or promotion budget is suddenly cut or cancelled, salespeople may become alarmed or demoralized. A positive advertising campaign will boost employee morale. It gives your staff strong, positive, motivational support and also makes it easier for you to hire the best people available.



9) You must advertise because your competition is advertising



If you want to compete then you need to advertise to defend your revenue from competitors. There are only so many consumers in the market ready to buy at one time so if you want to keep your share of customers you must advertise or you will lose them to a more aggressive competitor.



10) Advertising is a solid investment in the growth and future of your business



Consumers who buy products or services from you knew about your business or store before their need occurred. Advertising increases the likelihood that more consumers will know who you are when they decide they're ready to buy.

Medicine Hat Medical and Cosmetologist - Dr. Burger

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/24/medicine-hat-medical-cosmetologist-dr-burger/

ask-the-medical-cosmetic-expert-dr-burger



Pigmentation



Pigmentation problems are one of the toughest conditions to properly treat in the Aesthetic industry. Results can be obtained easily, but to maintain the permanently improved effect is tricky.



How the Body Works:



In the deepest layers of our skin reside melanocytes, which produce pigment and color to our skin.  Heritage (genetics) determine each person's specific skin color from African Americans (many melanocytes) to someone who is Albino (little to no melanocytes). We have melanocytes to protect our bodies against harmful UV rays from the sun.  When human skin is exposed to sunlight we produce more melatonin and our skin 'tans' to a darker shade. When melanocytes become “sick” or malfunction they will either produce too much melatonin (hyperpigmentation or dark spots) or when they die off they stop producing melatonin altogether (hypopigmentation or lighter spots) Melanocytes live decades, so their unwanted pigment production is long lasting, and tends to get worse as the years go by mainly because we lose the ability to regenerate cells as we age.



What causes Hyperpigmentation?



Some medical conditions,  (eg pregnancy) certain medications (eg older types of birth control pills) and skin injuries can cause pigmentation problems.  UV light (the sun and ALL other sources of tanning) would be the biggest cause of Hyperpigmentation. UV light creates free radicals (harmful molecules) that accumulate in our skin.  Free radicals deplete the vitamins (anti-oxidants that fight free radicals) in our skin, so instead of the vitamins in our bodies fighting ageing, they now fight sun damage and the ageing process gets away from you!  Very often what is seen as “ageing” is actually sun damage leading to sallow, thin, wrinkled looking skin on top of dark spots. In smokers, the demands on the skin and the consequent vitamin depletion is beyond, the ability of our bodies to correct.  Perfumes (oil based plant extracts) are absorbed into our skin easily, as the skin likes oil.  When UV light is added to this mixture you can be guaranteed hyperpigmentation in your skin.  Think of those heavily perfumed sunscreen we slather on and then go in the sun - it is a sure recipe for dark spots that take years to remove.



***Vitamin D plays no roll in skin rejuvenation, it has effects on bones and intestines.  We produce Vitamin D in our skin during the first 15 minutes in the sun, after that UV light will actually break down the Vitamin D that was created.



Preventing Pigmentation Problems:



The mainstay is to avoid damage - do not tan too much, wear proper sunscreen/hat/sunglasses for your eyes and do not smoke cigarettes if you can help it at all. Sunscreen should be maximum SPF 30 and should have a metal component (Titanium, Zink etc) to help reflect UV rays. The SPF molecule is a harmful molecule to our body whether it is SPF 15 or SPF 100. They all need to be re-applied every 2 hours. The higher the SPF, the more we damage the skin. This means the youngest most sensitive skin gets the most harmful molecules and it is saturated in perfume. Invest in a Non-Perfumed sunscreen with a metal component (it does not absorb at all, only sits on the skin and reflects the UV light away like little mirrors) and maximum SPF 30. A high quality product with lower SPF is always better than the big guns that smell nice.



When I consult patients with pigmentation issues, I exclude or diagnose and manage Medical conditions that contribute to the problem.



Treating Pigmentation Problems:



Firstly, remove the cause(s) in order to obtain a permanent “cure”. We put heavy emphasis on replenishing the vitamin levels in the skin with products that have proven absorbability. The most helpful here is Vitamin C with Vitamin A in second place. Pigmentation cannot be treated with Chemical Peels or Microdermabrasion as these only scourge the top layers of the skin while the diseased Melanocytes are located in the deepest layers of the skin. It is a common misconception in the industry and amongst clients - it is impossible to correct the problem this way. The only way to remove the collected, unwanted Melatonin permanently, is to laser it away. It is important to do your homework on the type of laser, as the little guys just don't cut it. As I discussed in a previous article on Hair Removal - the laser has to be of substantial physical size to generate a laser beam that is strong enough to obtain the effect we want medically. In our Spa, treating Pigmentation problems is done as a medical treatment - I consult clients myself as there could be underlying Medical issues that need to be addressed as well. Then a detailed plan is customized for that particular client to make it a real world solution (a jogger will not stop running, a truck driver will get a lot of sun from the left side etc.) The bottom line is this can be treated with the correct methods, qualifying products and a lot of patience. Please feel free to call us if we can be of assistance at 403-529-2006.



*Avoid *skin lighteners” like the plague. A molecule called Hydroquinone is banned in the whole world (Europe, Africa, Asia, South America), but is freely available in North America. It will make the pigmentation worse on a cosmetic level and has been associated with skin cancer. Buyer beware!!



**Vitamins are destroyed by UV light and oxygen/air, so any skin care product in a transparent container or a jar that opens up, will have very little to zero active molecules in it after a couple of weeks. Buyer beware!!

Medicine Hat Sporting Goods - Jason Black

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/24/medicine-hat-sporting-goods-jason-black/

hunting-and-fishing



The Outdoorsman is a family run & local business in Medicine Hat that has been helping our customers since 1980.



The small hunting shop that opened back then has grown into a large, well stocked and customer friendly environment.



We continually serve our loyal customers from all parts of Alberta as well as provide service to every province in Canada.



Why Us?



We are a full line Browning dealer and stock many other popular rifles and handguns. We buy, sell, and trade many well know firearms and some that are not so well know.



Whether it is target shooting, trap/skeet shooting, hunting or just needing a varmit gun, we have you covered.



Maybe you are more into fishing, or camping, we can help you there too. Our friendly staff will help you with whatever your needs are.



Please feel free to call us at 403-529-9248 with any of your questions!

Medicine Hat Residential Renovators - Lyle Woodward C.E.T.

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/24/medicine-hat-residential-renovators-lyle-woodward-c-e-t/

kitchen-and-bath-renos



STRONGWOOD CONSTRUCTION was established in Medicine Hat in 2013, born of a vision to offer quality and affordable renovation projects.  Owned and operated by a local Hatter, Lyle Woodward C.E.T., Strongwood Construction has found its way by offering the knowledge and education to successfully navigate any renovation project.  We employ journeymen carpenters, apprentices, labourers, and have an exceptional team of certified and licensed trades behind all our projects.



In 2014 we began work with The Home Depot as their contractor of choice for their Installation Services team.  We install kitchen cabinets, cabinet refacing, bathroom renovations, basement renovations, and window and door installation for the local Home Depot.  As such, all our employees and trades are BackChecked by The Home Depot.  We are WCB compliant and have two-million dollars liability insurance.



In 2016 we expanded to open our brand new shop and showroom, located at 920 16th Street SW in the light industrial area.  We are now able to showcase some of our unique and quality renovation materials.  We have an exceptional display of cabinet refacing options, premium acrylic shower surrounds, and are the local distributor for Schluter products.  We also have a comfortable consultation room where we can discuss your renovation project, bring together products and colours, and plan out all aspects in one place.

Medicine Hat Immigration Consultant - Lina Hijazi

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/24/medicine-hat-immigration-consultant-lina-hijazi/

 

Lina Hijazi, is the President of LEA Employment & Immigration Inc. Throughout her career and experience with immigration needs she has come across many different individuals, situations & stories. This has influenced the way she assists her clients and how she wants her team to approach the areas of immigration and employment – with efficiency and reliability but ensuring they maintain compassion and empathy with every client they come across.





LEA's  Immigration team is dedicated to helping our clients with their Canadian immigration needs. Our team of passionate professionals will work with you to:











For those employers that are still struggling with Labour shortage LEA will assist them to file for Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA) to fill their employment needs.



Lina Hijazi, is the President of LEA Employment & Immigration Inc. Throughout her career and experience with immigration needs she has come across many different individuals, situations & stories. This has influenced the way she assists her clients and how she wants her team to approach the areas of immigration and employment – with efficiency and reliability but ensuring they maintain compassion and empathy with every client they come across.




  • Express Entry Profile Representation

  • Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA)

  • Permanent Residence (PR) Applications

  • Family & Spousal Sponsorship

  • Federal & Provincial Immigration Programs

  • Work and Student Permits

  • Super Visa

  • Caregiver Applications

  • Translation Services

  • Notarization and Certifications by Commissioner for Oaths



LEA's  Immigration team is dedicated to helping our clients with their Canadian immigration needs. Our team of passionate professionals will work with you to:




  • Assess your qualifications and choose the most suitable program




  • Help you understand all steps and stages in the immigration process




  • Prepare your immigration file addressing all vital point and submit your application




  • Prepare you for your immigration interview



For those employers that are still struggling with Labour shortage LEA will assist them to file for Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA) to fill their employment needs.


Medicine Hat Shoe Addiction - Trena Dworak

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/24/medicine-hat-shoe-addiction-trena-dworak/

shoes



Shoes, Shoes & More Shoes



Shoe Addiction has a vast assortment of heels of all heights, boots, wide calf boots, booties, sandals, flip flops, comfort shoes, grad & weddings styles.



Shoe Addiction also has an extensive collection of unique PLUS Size Ladies Clothing, Purses, Belts & Jewelry



Shoe Addiction offers personalized services tailored to your individual needs… whether it is a dress that needs the perfect shoe, or a skirt that needs a beautiful top to complete your look. At Shoe Addiction we encourage you to bring in your pieces & we will help you perfect your look.

Medicine Hat Chiropractic Care - Dr. Cherniak

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/24/medicine-hat-chiropractic-care-dr-cherniak/

ask-the-chiropractic-care-expert-dr-cherniak



Power Of The Chiropractic Adjustment



Patients often ask what it is that a chiropractic adjustment is doing to them. Through education and clinical experience, there are various ideas on what is happening during the adjustment. One idea is that when the spine is out of alignment, nerve pressure occurs at that particular site. Upon adjustment, the spine realigns, taking pressure off the nerves, restoring proper nerve function. The site the nerves travel to, whether it be a muscle or organ, will function better. This idea has merit, but research is proving that the chiropractic adjustment is doing much more than that.



Chiropractors are often thought of as “back” doctors. However, if we are to be named based on what we affect the most, it may be best to describe us as “brain” doctors. Let me explain.



When your body is subjected to various physical, chemical and emotional stressors, the brain produces a response to deal with the stress. An example: If you encountered a violent person, your brain will interpret this stress by flooding your body with the hormone adrenaline. Adrenaline rushes blood to your heart and muscles. Great news! You are going to need this extra blood and oxygen to either fight like Ali or run like Usain Bolt. You only have so much blood. In this situation, your immune, digestive and reproductive systems lose blood. Great news! At that moment, you should not care about making babies or eating pizza!



So short term, your body's reaction to stress is a great thing. But what if these stressors don't go away? How long does the stress last when a person is in a bad marriage, loses a child, in the vise of addiction, or even sits at a desk all day. There is a point at which your body can no longer maintain balance. A vicious cycle occurs. The brain receives the stressor signal, then the brain sends out the stress hormones, adrenaline and cortisol, to the body. If the body remains stressed, the cycle continues.  The Stress Response. This is how disease and illness are created.



Research is showing that the chiropractic adjustment positively affects the brain by breaking this cycle. Chiropractors are Experts® at locating and correcting interference in the spine and nervous system. By taking pressure off the nervous system, through the adjustment, the brain begins to receive positive information. The brain now sends the right hormones to the body, restoring balance. Once this negative cycle is broken, the person can effectively deal with stressors. Independent medical research has shown that adjusting the spine changes brain function.



In September, we all get back to our regular schedules with work and school. Getting checked by a chiropractor can help you start on the right foot this season. Give us a call at 403-529-9069.

Medicine Hat Health Renew Laser therapist - Liz Mock

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/24/medicine-hat-health-renew-laser-therapist-liz-mock/

ask-the-chiropractic-care-expert-liz-mock-2



What is Golfer's Elbow?



If you've ever had it, you know what it is. There's pain on the inside of your elbow, and there may be muscle weakness and a weak grip. Sometimes the pain occurs only after you have been using your elbow for a while. Conversely, sometimes the pain is at the beginning of use, but disappears as you warm up. At the worst, there is pain all the time, and it may restrict your activities. The pain may be so severe it may affect all areas of your daily life.



This is Flexor Tendinosis, more commonly known as “Golfer's Elbow” (depending on just where the pain originates, this condition can also be called Tennis Elbow, but really it's all the same thing). And it's not just for golfers. Anyone can get pain in either the inside or outside of their elbow. This can be caused by repetitive overuse of any kind, such as hammering, using a screwdriver, gardening, or even meat cutting (in the fall).



We see a lot of this in our office this time of year.



What all these activities have in common is that unless you take the time to rest and recuperate the area, the pain can continue to worsen. And often people do find themselves getting worse and worse.



Enter Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). This therapy stimulates healing. It reduces inflammation and brings new blood to the area. Swelling is washed away and tissue is soothed.



LLLT is a natural form of healing. It doesn't hurt, it has no side effects. It is becoming more and more popular as people become aware of its possibilities.



Pain in the elbow?  Call us at 403-527-3783.  You have nothing to lose but your pain.

Medicine Hat Residential Swimmer - Russel Koch

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/24/medicine-hat-residential-swimmer-russel-koch/

ask-the-residential-swimming-expert-russel-koch



What is water chemistry when we are talking about pool water?



About 90% of all pool problems arise from faulty water chemistry.  The chemistry of your pool water is constantly changing or being altered because of rains, hot spells, heavy bather loads and even falling leaves or grass clippings.



What does it mean when they talk about water balance in my pool?



Water balance deals with the tendency of water to corrode or scale. Water Balance tells us one of three things:



Is the water scaling?



This means does the pool water precipitate or deposit a crusty, white substance called calcium carbonate or scale? This is the same as the deposit one sees at the bottom of a kettle used to boil water. Scale formation can form abrasive deposits on the pool surfaces, plug filter sand, reduce circulation by depositing scale inside the piping and cause cloudy pools. Allowing a scaling water condition to continue does irreparable damage to pool surfaces and equipment.



Is water corrosive?



Most pool owners understand the concept of “corrosion” Rusting is an example of corrosion of steel. In the pool environment corrosion can mean pitting of concrete surfaces, dissolving copper elements inside the pool heater or pin holes in metal filters and piping.  The only way to correct corroded equipment or pool surfaces is by replacement... a very expensive proposition.



Is the water balanced?



Balanced water is neither scaling nor corrosive and does no damage to pool equipment or surfaces.  Obviously, our objective is to have Balanced Water!  There are three main factors or parameters which determine if water is balanced or not.  There is pH, Calcium Hardness, and Total Alkalinity.



Call 403-502-5082 today for more information.

Thursday, 22 September 2016

William Audren - Weight Loss Expert Medicine Hat

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/william-audren-weight-loss-expert-medicine-hat/

ask-the-weight-loss-expert-william-audren



Eating Healthy on the Road



Trying to eat  healthy while traveling can be one of the greatest challenges.



Before you leave, try to decide what foods will be a big “no-no” during your trip. When you make that decision ahead of time, you will avoid the stressful mental games when “bad” foods are present.



Always prioritize hotels that offer a fridge in the room. This encourages healthier choices. It also saves money by allowing you to bring your own breakfast, lunch and/or snack foods.



Take advantages of Apps like Google Maps to see how close hotels are to surrounding grocery stores and markets.



Some hotels offer hard-boiled eggs and fruit for breakfast. You can use these foods for snacks during your trip.



You can use a cooler with gel ice packs to keep food cold during your trip.



Also, bring a few travel-friendly accessories like forks, plates, knives, and napkins. These will allow you to prepare and eat your food. Don't forget your supplements, such as multi-vitamins, magnesium or probiotics. Also, remember to take bags of your favorite tea or coffee you like to drink in the morning. This is very important in order to maintain a semi-normal routine on the road, which is crucial to overall health.



PLAN AHEAD. While it's easy to say, it's harder to implement. Planning ahead is an important and



essential way of overcoming unhealthy eating choices while traveling.

Medicine Hat Radiologist Specialist - Thomas Strain

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-radiologist-specialist-thomas-strain/

ask-the-radiology-expert-thomas-strain



Where does BGSA get the money, to run such a busy practice?



At least once a month, I get asked, do I have to pay for this procedure or does my Alberta Health Care (AHC) cover it? Whether it be AHC or another provincial health program, as long as your number is valid, the province will cover the cost of most procedures performed at our office. Through the Alberta Medical Association, Diagnostic Imaging, is governed by a Schedule of Medical Benefits (SOMB) which covers the cost. Unfortunately, MRI procedures are not in this SOMB, that is why patients have to pay.



What does BGSA do with all this



money?



Each procedure, whether it be an x-ray of your little toe or an Ultrasound for your pregnancy, has a fee value governed by the previously mentioned SOMB. All moneys generated through the SOMB procedures, we perform, go back into paying operating expenses, such as Radiologist/staff salaries, offices/medical supplies and the purchase of the equipment used to perform these procedures. BGSA have been very effective in controlling these cost, so we can continue to offer more services, so our citizens can receive their health care locally.



Call us today at 403-527-7334.



Professional Auto Reconditioning - Rob Schock

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/professional-auto-reconditioning-rob-schock/

auto-reconditioning



You love your vehicle for many reasons – from the driving experience and styling to the comfort and security you feel behind the wheel, and now with window tint you can add another reason! Not only does it give your vehicle an aesthetically pleasing look but many people don't realize there are many functional benefits of window tint besides the “cool” tinted limousine look we all know.



Keeping Cool



Most people love when the sun comes out from behind the clouds - until they have to get into their vehicle.  No matter what colour your vehicle is, the hot sun, especially in the summer, can quickly turn your car into an oven.  You can't crank the A/C fast enough to avoid the sauna that awaits you inside.  With the right window tint, you can reduce the heat inside your car in the scorching summer months by up to 60%.



Staying Healthy



Direct sunlight and the associated UV rays doesn't just damage your skin and accelerate ageing, it can also cause skin cancer over a prolonged period of exposure. Reduce harmful UV rays by up to 99% by installing quality car tint.



Upholstery Protection



The heat and UV rays from direct sunlight can turn your upholstery into a mess in a few short years, but did you know this is highly preventable? Car tint keeps your car interior from getting hot enough to warp, fade, or crack, and blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays from entering.



Shatter Proofing



This can go a long way to protecting the health and lives of passengers. Tint helps to keep your car's window from shattering upon impact with an object or in the event of an accident that otherwise would send thousands of tiny glass shards flying around that potentially could end up cutting up the occupants in the vehicle.



Saving Money



When your vehicle stays cooler, your A/C doesn't have to work as hard, putting less wear and tear on its components and saving on fuel. Who doesn't love saving money.



At Schock & Awe Auto Spa we use our D.A.P software to computer cut our window patterns on our plotter to get that exact fit and we carry the Solar Guard “HP Smoke” film product line in three different shades. (5%, 20% and 35%)



Give us a call at 403.527.1670 and book your vehicle in today and see how window tint can benefit you and your vehicle. Prices starting at only $150.00 plus tax.

Medicine Hat Realty Expert - Bridget Lambert

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-realty-expert-bridget-lambert-4/

realty



Wanting to sell your home for the most amount of money and in the shortest time frame? Location, condition, price and exposure are the critical factors when selling a home.



Unlike location, which is fixed, you have control over the condition of your home.  To improve the condition there are several things that can be done including cleaning, decluttering, staging, updating, and painting to name a few.



Next is pricing your home correctly which is critical to the sale. We understand that the homeowner wants to sell their house for as much money as possible, but if your asking price is too high it will only help sell other houses in your area. We often hear “List it high, we can always come down” This is true to an extent but there are at least three negative outcomes you can expect from overpricing a property:



1) The time your home sits on the market will increase, making buyers think you are more likely to accept a lower offer than the home's fair market value.



2) You will be missing out on buyers who should be looking at your house, but because it is out their price range they will miss it. This can happen when you price outside of a range such as choosing $465,000 instead of $449,000.



3) You may receive low offers or no offers at all. A higher asking price does not always equal a higher sales price. The more you overprice a property, the more likely you are to eventually sell it at a price lower than its market value.



Lastly is exposure which is very important. You might have the best house in town for sale but if no one knows about it, the chances of it selling are very slim. Social media or classified sites such as Facebook or Kijiji can work, but to gain maximum exposure and get your house in front of the most people who are ready and willing to buy, it should be on the MLS® system.  Considering that 89% of homes sold in Canada are sold through the MLS® system, it could be one of the biggest factors in getting your home SOLD!



Say “N0” to high Real Estate Fees and commissions! Sell and Save can get your property on MLS for a flat fee instead of paying a listing commission potentially saving you THOUSANDS!



For more information see our website  www.sellandsave.ca.



The chart below has an example of the potential savings.



Ready to list your home? Call Bridget today at 403-502-4400.

Medicine Hat Car Expert - Ralph Garnett

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-car-expert-ralph-garnett-3/

ask-the-car-expert-ralph-garnett



We have had what feels like one of the warmest & wettest summers in recent memory. What affect has the summer weather had on your vehicle?




  1. The A/C has been running full out most of the summer. Most vehicles have a Cabin Air Filter we should check or replace.




  1. Antifreeze: many vehicles with “Long Life” coolant that needs to be serviced @ 192,000 Km or 7 years or Sooner.




  1. Transmission fluids have been worked hard during the heat or perhaps towing trailers (service schedules vary widely from 48,000 Km or 3 years and up) Similar intervals for transfer case & Differential fluids



Stop in, give us a call or drop us a note, we would be happy to provide you with Factory recommended service intervals for the vehicle you drive.



 This month's tip: Drive Line Fluids. 



 No matter what you drive, the transmission, Transfer case and differentials in your vehicle are all equipped with some type of “Breather System” this allows air to flow in and out of the case as the fluids & components heat & Cool during regular use. The vent is protected by a small cap or check valve, however, with the wet year we have experienced, driving where even 1/3rd of the tire is submerged can result in water being pulled into the system… Contaminated fluids cannot protect, moving parts and will soon result in rusting & other damage. If you encountered heavy rain or mud. Be sure to have your drive line checked for water contamination. It will make most oils look grey, pink or creamy with the consistence of a warm milk shake.



We offer maintenance & full system Diagnostics & Repair on more than 30 makes of Domestic, Asian and European Vehicles. Both Gas and Diesel.  Factory Approved Maintenance & Programming.



Drive in, Drive out, Drive Happy



Phone (403) 528-4110



Email: service@mobil1autoservice.com



facebook.com/mobil1auto



Medicine Hat Professional Pharmacist - Irene Azzer

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-professional-pharmacist-irene-azzer/

pharmacy



Back to School and Lice



Lice are spread by close contact with someone who has lice or by sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, hats, towels and bedding with an infected person.



What are the signs of lice?



The most common sign is itching in the areas where the louse bites. Frequent scratching may cause redness and infection with pus. You may see nits, which are tiny white dots attached to the hair. Nits cannot be brushed off easily.



What is the treatment for head lice?



If one person in the family has lice, there is a good chance that others will have them too. Treat all affected family members and close contacts at the same time to prevent re-infection. Use the same treatment for head lice and pubic lice. Talk to a healthcare provider about the best treatment. Follow the directions on the product carefully. Avoid getting the product in your eyes. If you do get the product in your eyes, rinse them immediately with plenty of warm water. You should use a second treatment after 7–10 days to make sure the lice and any hatched eggs are gone.



After the treatment, the dead nits will still be attached to your hair. To make it easier to remove them you can wet the hair with vinegar and water.



You can remove nits in 3 ways:



Use your fingers to gently pull out any hairs that have nits; use tweezers to pull nits off the hair; use a fine-toothed (nit) comb. Start at the scalp and comb to the end of the hair. Clean the comb with soap and hot water when you are finished. Wash clothes, bedding, blankets, towels, hats and scarves in hot water. Dry clean items that cannot be washed or seal them up in a plastic bag for at least 2 weeks.



Phone us at 403-487-2236 with your questions!

Medicine Hat Funeral Expert - Roger Sept

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-funeral-expert-roger-sept/

ask-the-funeral-expert-roger-sept



WHY DO WE HAVE FUNERALS and ERECT



MONUMENTS?



Many people often say they don't want to have a funeral, but what they don't realize is that the funeral is not for them-it is for the family and friends.  A time for them to get together, share memories and offer moral support.  By not having a funeral, family and friends are robbed of a key aspect of the grieving process-acknowledging that their love one has died.



As for monuments, they provide a place for people to go and reflect about the good and maybe not so good times they have had with individuals who are no longer here.  The cemetery, along with its headstones, is a living history book.  Talk surrounds that we are running out of space for cemeteries, and yes, in larger centres this is becoming a concern.  But, if we take a look at small countries in Europe, they have come up with solutions to this problem while still maintaining cemeteries.  When we plan a new development one of the essential ingredients is green space (parks).  Well the most used park in any city is the cemetery-it doesn't seem to matter the time or weather conditions somebody is visiting the cemetery.  Cemeteries provide a tangible tie to the past and for many of us that is important.



Please call us at 403-528-2599 with any questions you may have.

Medicine Hat Professional Counselor - Peggy Davis

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-professional-counselor-peggy-davis/

ask-the-counselling-expert-peggy-davis



Why Won't my Teen Talk to Me



Believe it or not, your teen does want to talk with you! Many times, however, parents are trying too



hard to force communication with their teen by giving unsolicited advice, cornering their kids, or blowing up. Let's talk about a few ways you can change your behavior today to help encourage more open and honest communication with your teen.



Are you often giving advice about what your teen should or shouldn't do to solve problems? Are you consistently feeling frustrated that they don't do what you suggest? Stop giving advice! Instead, consider these possible responses to open up dialogue:



Reflect what you see: “Kate, something has made you sad.” (then shh...don't talk.)



Act without talking: Rub Kate's back or knee. Nod sympathetically. Give an encouraging smile.



Use one word responses: “Oh!” or “Really?” or “Hmmm...” (and then hush!)



Ask open ended questions: “Then what happened?” or “What do you think your options are?”



Be available: If you teen wants to talk, she or he will often let you know nonverbally first (stomping around, crying, heavy sighs). Put down whatever you are doing and turn to face your teen. Pull the car over if you need to. Use your body to show that you are available if they want to talk. A kind smile without words goes a long way.



If you have any questions about this article please give me a call at 403-527-2114

Specialist Granite and Quartz Medicine Hat - Arlen Jalbert

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/specialist-granite-quartz-medicine-hat-arlen-jalbert/

ask-the-granite-expert-arlen-jalbert



Natural stone can be classified into two general categories according to it's composition: siliceous stone or calcareous stone. Knowing the difference is critical when selecting cleaning products.



Siliceous stone is composed mainly of silica or quartz-like particles. It tends to be very durable and relatively easy to clean with mild acidic cleaning solutions. Types of siliceous stone include granite, slate, sandstone, quartzite, brownstone and bluestone.



Calcareous stone is composed mainly of calcium carbonate. It is sensitive to acidic cleaning products and frequently requires different cleaning procedures than siliceous stone. Types of calcareous stone include marble, travertine, limestone and onyx. What may work on siliceous stone may not be suitable on calcareous surfaces.



How to tell the difference



A simple acid sensitivity test can be performed to determine whether a stone is calcareous or siliceous. You will need about 4oz of a 10% solution of muriatic acid and an eyedropper. Or you can use household vinegar and an eye dropper. Because this test may permanently etch the stone, select an out of the way area (a corner closet) and several inches away from the mortar joint. Apply a few drops of the acid solution to the stone surface on an area about the size of a quarter. If the stone is calcareous, the acid drops will begin to bubble or fizz vigorously. If little or no reaction occurs,the stone can be considered siliceous. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and wipe dry. This test may not be effective if surface sealers or liquid polishes have been applied. If  and old sealer is present, ship a small piece of stone away and apply the acid solution to the fractured surface.



If you have any questions about this article please call us at 403-526-4821.

Medicine Hat Glass Repair Specialist - Ron Beauchesne

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-glass-repair-specialist-ron-beauchesne/

ask-the-glass-repair-expert-ron-beauchesne



Increased safety: Our water repellent treatment significantly improves visibility when it rains and reduces glare, particularly at night.



Increased effectiveness: It helps eliminate insects, mud and other dirt. It effectively removes snow and slush and withstands glass-cleaning and de-icing products, even car washes.



Increased savings: Our water repellent treatment reduces windshield washer fluid consumption and wiper wear. Plus, it lasts several months, up to six times longer than similar products.

Medicine Hat Accounting professional - Angie Ritchie

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-accounting-professional-angie-ritchie/

ask-the-accounting-expert-angie-ritchie



September always brings a fresh start as the kids go Back to School.  It's also a great time for small businesses to prepare for Year End.  Have you let your bookkeeping get behind and you're feeling a little overwhelmed?  Ledgers can help you out!  We offer full bookkeeping, accounting and tax services such as:




  • Daily/Weekly/Monthly Bookkeeping

  • Payroll

  • GST filing

  • Year End Financial Statement preparation

  • Corporate Tax Returns

  • Personal Tax Returns

  • Business Plans

  • Incorporations



At Ledgers, we believe you should concentrate on your core business. Let our professionals concentrate on your books.



Ledgers (Medicine Hat) welcomes Lynn Leismeister to the Team as Office Manager/Bookkeeper.  Lynn brings 20+ years' bookkeeping experience in a number of different industries.



Give us a call at 403-526-0118 or send us an email if you need help getting your business organized and ready for Year End.

Community Living Expert Medicine Hat - Vern Enslen

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/community-living-expert-medicine-hat-vern-enslen/

community-living



Community Living Considerations



There are almost as many reasons for moving from a single family dwelling into a close community setting as there are people. The community setting being referred to could be condo style, apartment building or a retirement villa.



Some of the considerations are freedom from building and grounds up-keep, freedom to travel at will, physical security within a complex, social needs or desires or the requirement for physical care.



Financial abilities also play a part in making these decisions. What are the advantages and disadvantages of Life Lease, title ownership or rental? What are the initial and ongoing costs? Will my current income allow the move?



A major consideration is lifestyle. Do you enjoy interacting with people and are willing to be involved in social groups or are you a more reclusive individual looking for peace and quiet involving more solo type of hobbies? Is the accommodation central to necessary amenities and recreation outlets you frequent? If not, is public transportation adequate and readily accessible? If you do own a vehicle, is parking conveniently underground and warm in the winter or will you need to scrape windows and brush snow?



What about visitors to your home? Will the happy voices of children in the hallways of your complex be welcome or will you later be asked to keep your company quiet? Are there common areas where you can entertain family and friends when numbers may be a little too large for your suite? Are there private meeting areas so as not to disturb other residents as you celebrate holidays, birthdays etc.? Does the community you are considering have guest accommodations for out-of-town visitors or will they need to find a hotel?



We recognize that community living may not be for everyone. Most people who have made the move to community living tell us they are so glad they did and almost all add “I wish we had done it sooner”.



If you are interested in Community Living, please give us a call at 403-526-6951 and we would be happy to answer your questions.

Medicine Hat Dentistry Specialist - Sameet Gill

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-dentistry-specialist-sameet-gill/

 

dentistry



Children and Dentistry



Taking children to the dentist at a young age helps set them up for lifelong healthy habits. Establishing a 'dental home' early also helps reduce the amount of anxiety that children can feel going to see a dentist. Often we see kids in an emergency for the first visit and it can be unnerving for a child. When the first visit is a positive one, focusing on education and maintenance, it helps to reduce dental anxiety. The best practice is to bring a child to the dental office when they turn 1 or when the first tooth comes out (usually a lower front tooth).



At the first visit the dentist examines your child's teeth or “counts them” and also helps teach best practices for brushing. This helps to create rapport. Some children will even receive a gentle polish.



A lot of parents often ask if baby teeth are important. This is great question to ask. Baby teeth are really key in growth and development. They help with holding space, chewing and speaking. Often times if a child has cavities on their baby teeth, it can lead to tooth loss. When baby teeth are lost early, adult teeth can come in crooked or misaligned. Baby teeth are also important for eating and chewing. Having teeth to chew with that do not hurt or ache is important to get adequate nutritional intake. Baby teeth are also important for learning how to speak.



It's also interesting that children with cavities or poor oral hygiene have been linked to poor school performance. Studies show that children who have cavities tend to have issues with both school attendance and grades. Children with tooth pain are four times more likely to have lower grade point averages than students without dental issues. Besides contributing to poor academic performances, oral hygiene issues contribute to more school absences. On average, children with dental issues miss up to three more days of school than students without dental problems.



 At age 2 or as soon as a child is able to spit, they can start to use very minimal amount of toothpaste. Children's teeth should be brushed by an adult using a minimal amount (a portion the size of a grain of rice) of fluoridated toothpaste.



Age 7 is when a child can start brushing their teeth on their own.



As children get older, they develop better dexterity and hand-eye coordination. Age 7 is marked by acceptance of increasing responsibilities by the children making it an ideal age for teeth brushing on their own.



We are always around at Park Meadows if you need us, evenings and Saturdays too! We offer complimentary consults if you ever want to pop by and speak with any of dentists about questions or comments you might have.



dentistry



Children and Dentistry



Taking children to the dentist at a young age helps set them up for lifelong healthy habits. Establishing a 'dental home' early also helps reduce the amount of anxiety that children can feel going to see a dentist. Often we see kids in an emergency for the first visit and it can be unnerving for a child. When the first visit is a positive one, focusing on education and maintenance, it helps to reduce dental anxiety. The best practice is to bring a child to the dental office when they turn 1 or when the first tooth comes out (usually a lower front tooth).



At the first visit the dentist examines your child's teeth or “counts them” and also helps teach best practices for brushing. This helps to create rapport. Some children will even receive a gentle polish.



A lot of parents often ask if baby teeth are important. This is great question to ask. Baby teeth are really key in growth and development. They help with holding space, chewing and speaking. Often times if a child has cavities on their baby teeth, it can lead to tooth loss. When baby teeth are lost early, adult teeth can come in crooked or misaligned. Baby teeth are also important for eating and chewing. Having teeth to chew with that do not hurt or ache is important to get adequate nutritional intake. Baby teeth are also important for learning how to speak.



It's also interesting that children with cavities or poor oral hygiene have been linked to poor school performance. Studies show that children who have cavities tend to have issues with both school attendance and grades. Children with tooth pain are four times more likely to have lower grade point averages than students without dental issues. Besides contributing to poor academic performances, oral hygiene issues contribute to more school absences. On average, children with dental issues miss up to three more days of school than students without dental problems.



 At age 2 or as soon as a child is able to spit, they can start to use very minimal amount of toothpaste. Children's teeth should be brushed by an adult using a minimal amount (a portion the size of a grain of rice) of fluoridated toothpaste.



Age 7 is when a child can start brushing their teeth on their own.



As children get older, they develop better dexterity and hand-eye coordination. Age 7 is marked by acceptance of increasing responsibilities by the children making it an ideal age for teeth brushing on their own.



We are always around at Park Meadows if you need us, evenings and Saturdays too! We offer complimentary consults if you ever want to pop by and speak with any of dentists about questions or comments you might have.


Medicine Hat Heating and Sheet Metal Technician - Martin Schultz

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-heating-sheet-metal-technician-martin-schultz/

heating-and-sheet-metal



DONE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME



Our mission at Silverback Heating and Sheet Metal is to provide our customers with professional and courteous service.  Our qualified and friendly staff will deliver excellent workmanship with superior results.



This means exceptional service from the initial point of contact.  Right from that first phone call or email right through to the completion of the job.



We strive to provide our technicians with a positive and healthy work environment in which to grow.  In turn, their enthusiasm is



reflected in the quality of the work they will do for you.



We offer the following services:




  • Furnace/ A/C Installation/



Replacements




  • Service Work

  • Custom Ductwork



Please call us at 403-527-4961 - we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Medicine Hat Roofing Professional - Greg Wilson

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-roofing-professional-greg-wilson/

ask-the-roofing-expert-greg-wilson



In a previous article I stressed the importance of proper underlayment to maximize the life of the shingles on top. Here in this picture is a perfect example. You can clearly see that the bottom 4 feet of the roof looks almost new, while the rest of the roof looks to be 15-20 years old already. The shingles are curled up really bad and are missing lots of granules.  Well these shingles in this picture are only about 6 years old and already need to be replaced. This side of the roof faces south, so it gets full sun exposure all day long.  To prevent the new shingles from decomposing early, I used a synthetic felt replacement of the entire roof deck. This synthetic felt will minimize the heat transfer from the attic to the shingles which will help extend the shingle life.



The second part to this early deterioration is lack of ventilation. This home has older wooden soffits with a few holes spaced fairly far apart. This also accelerated the process because of poor air exchange in the attic, there is not enough air coming in to draw the hot air out of the attic.



When a customer has a problem like this I never simply just replace the shingles, only to come back again in 6 years because of the same problem. I always look for the problem and fix it right the first time; while educating the home owner about their home and roof.

Flooring Professional Medicine Hat - Main Floor Carpet

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/flooring-professional-medicine-hat-main-floor-carpet/

flooring



Welcome to Main Floor Carpets!



Started in 1985, we have over 32 years of experience in the flooring business!



Our team at Main Floor Carpets is dedicated to excellence in quality products, customer service, and installation at competitive prices. We are not only committed to meeting your expectations, but exceeding them. We offer you the largest selection of colors and styles at the best prices. All products meet strict quality standards, so you can be confident when shopping with us!



Let us take care of all your flooring and window coverings needs. The best testament to our commitment to excellence is our high ratio of repeat business and customer referrals. Come see what makes us different and stand above the competition.



Nobody knows flooring like we do. Why should you shop at a flooring specialty store versus a general-purpose, big-box hardware store that sells everything? Because we know flooring best. We're the flooring Experts®, from our wide selection, to design advice, to planning, to professional reliable installation. We will be here for you before, during and after the sale.



When you visit our store you will be treated to the best quality customer service available. Our staff is up to date on all the hottest flooring design trends to help you achieve your dream floor covering solution.



Call us today at 403-527-9900!

Medicine Hat Automotive Accessories Professional - Tyson Knoblich

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-automotive-accessories-professional-tyson-knoblich/

automotive-accessories



Did you know that The Shine Factory has been serving Medicine Hat and area for over 25 years



But why buy from The Shine Factory? The convenience of buying from an automotive accessories Expert® is our ability to figure out exactly what you want out of the part you're looking to purchase. The price difference in brands of accessories can be huge. But just because something is “the best” or “the cheapest”  may not necessarily mean that that is the product that is best for your needs. An example could be with upgrading or adding lights to your work truck that sees some hard daily use. You could spend anywhere from $80-$799 for what looks to be the same set of lights. The difference though, is on the inside. High quality lights for $450 will be hand built in North America with high quality components and a lifetime warranty.  The ones for $150 are most likely mass produced in an overseas plant. Coming with a 1 year warranty. Knowing that most electronics fail well after the second or third year, the light fails and now your stuck to think. I can't buy the $450 ones now, so you buy another cheaper one. A few years go by and the lights fail, now you're at $450 when you replace it again. See the cycle?  Now if you knew you were going to modify your vehicle to have the lights on it for say 10 years, and had bought the better quality light. You would have actually saved money and time by not having to keep replacing cheap lights. Also the peace of mind of having a better quality and better performing product on your vehicle. For any accessory sales, installation or repairs contact The Shine Factory @ 403 527 7955 or www.shinefactorymedhat.ca

Medicine Hat Neurologic Music Therapy- Brandon Thomas

http://theexperts.ca/blog/2016/09/22/medicine-hat-neurologic-music-therapy-brandon-thomas/

ask-the-disability-services-expert-brandon-thomas



What is Neurologic Music Therapy?



Neurologic Music Therapy is defined by the Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy as “the therapeutic application of music to cognitive, sensory, and motor function due to neurologic disease of the human nervous system. Neurologic Music Therapy is research-based. The Neurologic Music Therapist (NMT) skillfully uses music and it's elements to promote, maintain, and restore physical, mental, emotional health and overall well-being.”



 What are the benefits of Neurologic Music Therapy at Next Step?



Music is physical, and without the “doing” part, like playing on instruments or singing it cannot take place.



Music is social and people are drawn together through making music, it is there in times of joy and times of sadness.



Music Therapy focuses on neurologic development, it enables the brain to adapt and change. It promotes and develops cognitive, speech/language and sensory motor skills.



Music Therapy is a psychological process. Self-awareness, creativity or self-expression can be facilitated within a musical framework.



Music Therapy is emotional. The quote “where words fail, music speaks” describes that music can speak or communicate for us, when we are not able to.



For more information:



Phone (403) 527-4999, ext. 123



or visit us online:



www.nextstepltd.ca