Thursday, 20 June 2013

Meet Alison Vanderveen, Medical Standby Coordinator!


She’s willing to go there. When it comes to laughing, Ali loves a good joke. She’s usually the one orchestrating pranks and hiding behind dark corners just to get a chuckle in.

In fact, those who know her well, know to say: “Ali, I know you’re in there…” Before entering a room she might be lurking in.

But all amusement aside, Ali’s also one of the most passionate people you’ll ever meet. 

Recently, she was lucky enough to finish her EMT program on scholarship in Singapore. There, she made some genuine connections and discovered that EMS is truly where her heart lies.

Though she chose not to assist from an ambulance platform – Ali’s found the best of two worlds as Medical Standby Coordinator:

“I get to experience my love for meeting new people, and can assist as EMR whenever needed.

Who could ask for more?”

Q AND A
           
What's a quirky trait not many people know you have?

 “I’ve been known to collect antiques, lace, teacups, and floral print. At the age of 25, some people consider that a little out of the ordinary.”

What’s one place in the world you’d love to travel to and why?
 
“I have a few answers for this question, in no particular order:

Ireland – To play quarters in an authentic Irish Pub.

Amsterdam – As I am Dutch and my grandparents grew up there.  It’s the “Homeland” for me.

New Orleans – Because I heard it is beautiful and FULL of culture.

Greece – Because I love Greek food and I would eat them out of Lemon Potatoes and Tzaziki.

San Diego – Because I must meet Shamu.”

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

“Re-purpose furniture, GOLF, fly fish, go to farmer’s markets and hang out with my family… Just to name a few!”

Monday, 17 June 2013

Top five Alberta adventures – take a break, it’s good for you!


Ever feel like hitting the pause button? Go ahead. Escaping your regular routine is good for your health. 

Whether exploring a new culture, mountain biking or just spending time with family – your body and mind need a different scene every now and then.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to go far to achieve this. We’ve made a list of Alberta adventures that are easy and accessible:

Drumheller – Royal Tyrrell Museum
Immerse yourself in a day of dino bone digging and Velociraptor exhibit hopping.

Or take a glimpse back to ‘Cretaceous Alberta’ – where the Albertosaurus roamed our lands!

Horseback Riding in Kananaskis
Enjoy the natural beauty of Kananaskis Valley with a horseback ride through the Rockies.

En route, riders will experience majestic alpine meadows, breathtaking mountain peaks and a variety of wildlife (elk, deer, and moose).


Beach Time
We have beaches in Alberta? Sure do. We may be surrounded by mountains, but Alberta does boast a few places for sand and water fun.

Ma-Me-O Beach at Pigeon Lake: Catch a wave and enjoy some wake-boarding and swimming at Pigeon Lake!  Battle Lake, Twin Lakes and Buck Lake are also very close in distance.

Sylvan Lake Provincial Park: From waterskiing and windsurfing to ice fishing and boating – Sylvan Lake is a popular recreational lake for every season.

Star Gazing
Love to wish upon a star? Check out the University of Calgary’s Rothney Astrophysical Observatory.
 
Situated atop a hill in the foothills, visitors get to explore the universe with one of Canada’s largest telescopes. Interactive displays and tours are also available.

Mountain Glacier Walking
This winter, breathe in that crisp mountain air by escaping to the picturesque Columbia Icefield.

Visitors can take a gander along the gorgeous Athabasca Glacier and learn about close-by wildlife with a guided tour.