2022 spring airdrielife

MIDT OW N

There's a home for everyone in Midtown in Airdrie. Swing by our Paired, Laned, and Front Drive Showhomes by accomplished builders: Shane Homes, Trico Homes, and Wave Homes to Find Your Happy Place.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Sherry Shaw-Froggatt

DIGITAL MANAGER Erika Tobolski

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Vanessa Peterelli

DESIGN DIRECTOR Kim Williams

CONTRIBUTORS Sergei Belski, Stacie Gaetz, Laura Hudson, Tara Levick, Patricia Merrick, Christie Moser, Karen Norman, Kate Norris, Carl Patzel, Trenton Pittner, Kim Purvis, Josie Randall, Kristy Reimer, Jody Sanderson, Ashley Schimpf, Wyatt Tremblay, Jessica Williamson Stock photography by istock.

SALES DIRECTOR Wendy Pratt

AD DESIGN/PRODUCTION Brenda Weeks

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Sharie Tanner

PRINTING Central Web CONTACT US

EDITORIAL sherry@frogmediainc.ca ADVERTISING wendy@frogmediainc.ca WEBSITE/SOCIAL MEDIA erika@frogmediainc.ca

FIND US

Contributors

Sergei Belski says he started his journey in photography back in June 2005, “when my wife kept saying that since I am always taking photographs already, I might as well do it for a living.” He’s been working and loving it ever since.

Patricia Merrick is a freelance journalist with more than nine years’ experience in the industry. Since graduating from SAIT with her journalism diploma in 2012, she has done reporting and editing work across Mountain View and Rocky View counties. She enjoys being a stay-at-home mama to her two-year-old son, with another baby on the way. Following a traumatic childhood, she is passionate about advocating for mental health and breaking down the stigma around mental illness through social media, writing and speaking at public events.

Carl Patzel comes from the pre-digital, film world where darkrooms, developer and fixer were a daily occurrence. He spent many years as a chief photographer at a daily newspaper and shooting for magazines. “As a pro you take on any project from weddings to portraits, pet photography to food camera work (as in this issue), and artistic ventures. I’ve captured top dogs of the oil industry, politicians, entertainers and even Prince Philip. But the most rewarding aspect of raising a camera is making normal, everyday life seem fascinating through photographic storytelling and capturing that one singular moment in time.”

Josie Randall is passionate about writing hyper-local stories and thinking of fresh ways to cover basic news. Over the past five years, she worked as a radio and television producer for CBC and CityNews in Toronto and Calgary. She also worked with LiveWire Calgary and CityNews Calgary. Josie graduated from Mount Royal University in Calgary with a degree in communications - journalism and a minor in political science. She attended Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, where she completed various courses in speech writing and online news writing.

Kristy Reimer has been photographing amazing Airdrie people, places and products for the last 18 years. Kristy’s photographic style has spawned from sculpting light and shadows, believing that well-lit subjects are the first building blocks of good photography. She loves living in Airdrie with her husband and three-year-old son, exploring the pathways, parks and canal system.

Jody Sanderson has been a freelance writer and editor for more than 40 years. Her work has been published across Canada, both hard copy and online. She was a regular contributor to an English newspaper for snowbirds in Mexico. Jody also taught in the print journalism program at Sheridan College in Oakville, ON, and spent two terms as a municipal councillor. She includes directing theatre, hiking, reading and keeping up with four grandchildren as her hobbies.

St. Augustine model by Douglas Homes

Way

Happens™

Editor’s Note

Change is inevitable. Suffering is optional. That’s my spin on my wise therapist’s line. I’m back here on the editor’s page, missing our former editor Stacie Gaetz. (I did convince her to continue to write the parentlife column). Stacie left to follow her passion and I couldn’t be happier for her.

Following passions is what led me, back in 2004, to start airdrielife and there have been many people over the years who have come in and out of our pages, making a difference with their words and work.

You will notice a few new faces on our contributors’ page: Jody Sanderson, Patricia Merrick and Josie Randall, who join the talented Carl Patzel, Sergei Belski and Kristy Reimer in helping us bring this issue to life. I am grateful to each of them for sharing their passions with me. Behind the scenes Erika Tobolski is managing our events and digital assets, taking over from Katie Dudek who made the leap to a full-time career in Calgary.

People come into your life for a season, a reason or a lifetime. I have always believed in this both personally and professionally. There are 51 women in this issue who have come into my life for a season, and I am very grateful right now for them. They are on our pages for a reason … to remind us that hope always wins, kindness always wins.

With the promise of spring ahead of us, we turn the page to our 19th year of publishing airdrielife. I want to thank the businesses that support us by purchasing advertising space with us. The “shop-local” battle cry often neglects to reflect the need to support local media and I am very grateful for the businesses that recognize our value and place in connecting them with our community. In an overly cluttered digital landscape often polluted with misinformation and mistrust, we are happy to provide the pause button. So grab a cup or glass of your bevvie of choice and join us for a real flippin’ good time.

Thank you, Airdrie, for trusting us to come into your life.

Sherry Shaw-Froggatt

Publisher

Neurological research shows print media has a deeper and longer-lasting effect than digital content and consumers trust print ads more than any other medium, and therefore your brand, when in print. Want to learn more? Ask my sales director Wendy Pratt wendy@frogmediainc.ca

Parkside

If you love outdoor activities, you’ll love Chinook Gate. Steps away from Airdrie’s Chinook Winds Park with 55 acres of year-round recreational opportunities for the whole family.

Enjoy big city amenities with a small-town feel. Chinook Gate offers the best of both worlds – close to schools and local shopping, plus easy access to Cross Iron Mills. You’ll love this welcoming, pet-friendly community with a vibrant Homeowners Association and a variety of home styles to choose from.

PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

greatlife

GREATLIFE | ARTIST

“I wanted to challenge myself and to be able to think outside of the blinders of motherhood, which is wonderful, but I needed something else”

Made from the heart

STORY BY WYATT TREMBLAY | PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

Ainsley Mathieson is a busy Airdrie mother of two young children. She’s also the owner of Wildfire Rose, a home-based business that specializes in custom-made personalized jewelry using the ancient practice of metal stamping.

Her journey to becoming a jewelry maker began when she was on maternity leave with her newborn and toddler.

“You dedicate every waking, sleeping moment to them. Honestly, doing this was for my sanity,” she says, laughing.

Mathieson says if she sees something she wants to buy, she’ll first wonder if she can just make it herself. This has led her to dabble in wood shelving, signage, resin boards and other DIY projects.

“That’s exactly what happened with this,” she explains, “I was looking around for something personalized with my children’s names on it.”

She says she looked online but found that quality items were too pricey, and shipping was expensive. “I’ve always been creative, so, I was like, ‘No, I can do this myself.’”

Mathieson, who has a background in jewelry, studying through the Gemological Institute of America, began doing research and gathering the materials necessary to do the metal stamping.

The method, which is recognized as the earliest-known form of imprinting an image on coins, uses small discs of metal, often made from gold or silver, and a hammer, a stamping block and stamps with letters, numbers, icons and shapes on them.

Metal stamping doesn’t require a lot of space, she adds. “My kids take up 99 per cent of my house. My dining room table is my workspace.”

But this became more than just a way to create something special for her children; it also became something Mathieson needed to do for herself.

“I wanted to challenge myself and to be able to think outside of the blinders of motherhood, which is wonderful, but I needed something else.”

As she taught herself the process and gathered quality materials and tools, she began making pieces for friends and family, calling it her “side hustle.”

She then decided to turn it into a business, launching it on social media in March of 2020, just as the pandemic hit.

“That created its own set of hurdles,” she noted, “but I was blown away by the local support.”

Today, most of her sales come from Airdrie and Calgary, she says.

Her pieces, usually three discs attached to a gold or sterling silver chain, are elegant and delicate. She stamps people’s names or initials, and images such as hearts and textures, on the face of the discs. She prefers using sterling silver, gold-filled or rose-gold-filled discs, which she sells with the chain necklaces.

Each piece is unique, because each one is based on the personal requests of her customers. She’s also branched out into stamped bracelet cuffs, freshwater pearl studs and customized maps.

Her work caught the attention of the owner of airdrielife, which sponsors the Amazing Airdrie Women’s Awards, a yearly event that recognizes Airdrie women in categories such as advocacy, courage and mentorship. Mathieson was commissioned to create nine personalized stamped pieces with the winner’s initials and category for the 2021 awards.

“I immediately jumped on it,” she says. “Who wouldn’t want to be involved in this?”

Where does she hope her creative “side hustle” will take her? For now, Mathieson is focused on her young children and is happy with the creative outlet jewelry gives her.

“I really love doing this. I can look at this and say, ‘Made by me, and from the heart.’” life

By the book

PHOTOS BY

Local artist Mackenzie Cox, 19, was recently commissioned to illustrate a special project for airdrielife and Genesis Land to celebrate the babies of 2021. The book, which features birth announcements from local families, includes a custom commissioned children’s book by author Leonor Henriquez. Copies of the book are available at Genesis showhomes in Airdrie and can be viewed in digital flip-book format at airdrielife.com

We asked Cox about her experience and advice for other young artists.

Describe your art style

I am always working to improve and create my style. My art has notably improved in the last year and that’s always a special time for me, when I see improvement. It gets me excited for how much further I can learn and grow. My art teacher from high school, Mr. Gray, would call it “the Macki style” but I always keep my favourite themes within my work. Bright colours, textures, impasto and childlike wonder. With Baby Bunny Boing I’ve kept my bright, colourful watercolours at play and charming little characters within it. Sometimes as an illustrator it’s about adapting your style to what the author/client wants for their story. As an example for this book, I used more of the colour blue to represent Genesis Land’s relation to the project.

When did you know you wanted to be an artist?

I have been drawing and writing since I could remember. My parents told me since I had been with my Papa in the summer after I was born that I had learned how to write and draw with a pencil at only 10

“Practice is great, passion is beautiful but hard work and patience with yourself and your growth is where it all lies”

KRISTY REIMER

months old because he is an accountant and I had been watching him work and write. When I truly made the decision was after I had written my first book when I was 15. I knew I truly wanted to invest and continue to make art, be an artist and teach art eventually. I knew I could do it then and I have had a drive since to make those dreams come true. So far I’m making them happen!

What was your process for creating the images for the book?

I originally gave what I call blueprints to the team and author, story boarding to the writing Leonor had so far provided. This included character designs and development ideas. After everyone was set on which route and colours we were taking I started with pages I could really see in my head.

I individually cut watercolour paper to the right dimensions, tape it down to a board with masking tape and then either trace the blueprints I’ve laid underneath or redraw them in pencil. I use the window or my light box to trace my original plans. Then I outline with a black felt pen. The next step is to erase the pencil and go in with the paint! I usually start with the background and work my way forward to the foreground and characters. After the paint is dry I untape it from the board, number the back with what page it is and then proceed to getting it scanned so it can be placed into formatting for the book. Some pages take longer than others. For this book they ranged from two to five hours each. Fuller images taking longer.

What did you learn about yourself during this book project?

I learned that illustrating was something I really wanted to continue doing. Before this book I had only done one other smaller illustrating project and my own books. I ended up falling in love bringing (the) author’s story and characters to life with the art. I learned I wanted to teach art and continue my career in illustrating for others and continue publishing my own books as well. This project was a goal and a dream of mine; a great start to my illustrating career that I am going to continue to pursue. life

airdrielife is pleased to support AIRDRIE READS

Big Sky Author Services and The Feathered Pen are proud to bring back Airdrie Reads.

This summer, five Airdrie champions will each pitch a book, written by an Alberta author, to the Airdrie Reads panelists. Only one will be crowned the second annual Airdrie Reads winner. Combining a passion for books with the drama of reality TV, this online broadcast will inspire our city to read along and judge who they believe should win Airdrie Reads 2022.

Big Sky Author Services and The Feathered Pen are now accepting synopsis submissions for full-length (45,000120,000 words) fiction, memoir and non-fiction books published by Alberta authors at airdriereads.ca.

The winning author and their book will be featured in airdrielife and will also be highlighted on the shelves of several local businesses. Submissions close April 15, 2022.

Stay tuned as the champions, the panelists, the shortlist, and the five competing titles are announced on fb.com/AirdrieReads and @airdriereads on Instagram.

KRISTIN GRACE: doing the groundwork

STORY BY WYATT TREMBLAY | PHOTO BY KRISTY REIMER

You may have heard of Airdrie’s Kristin Grace; she and Christine Wigley won the ARTember Festival’s Springwood Studio Songwriting Contest in 2020. At the time, Grace said music was her passion and that she planned to pursue a music degree after graduation from high school.

In December 2021, Grace took the next step in her career, packing up her belongings and moving to Waco, Texas, to attend McLennan Community College to study audio technology.

“I’m laying the groundwork for my future,” the 18-year-old says, “and I’m excited to return to Alberta in two years’ time and bring what I’ve learned to the music scene there.”

She recently completed her ARCT, which is the highest academic associate diploma awarded through the Royal Conservatory of Music. However, rather than attending university to earn a music degree, she felt that adding the recording diploma to her pedagogy, classical and voice training, along with her piano, guitar and songwriting skills, would allow her to be the musician she wants to be.

“I really wanted to do something I’m not already good at,” she adds. “I love performing and writing, but straight up just being a pragmatist, recording is very expensive.”

Why attend college in Texas? Grace has two older siblings attending the same college and being with family so far away from home made the decision to attend McLennan easier.

“I’ve never really travelled much,” she explains, “and being where I could live with family made sense.”

Like most musicians, the pandemic has made it difficult to perform and earn a living, but Grace has kept busy.

Between busking at the Airdrie Farmer’s Market, collaborating on co-writes, she’s recently released a demo called Homemade Hymns, which she recorded on her laptop.

“I loved that (recording) process. I absolutely love performing, but I loved this way more.”

Homemade Hymns is a compilation of some of her favourite traditional hymns and some that she has written. Her vocals are strong, reflecting the country roots she’s drawn to; the four original pieces are written in the style of hymns and are authentic and singable. Her obvious skill and talent as a musician blends wonderfully with the demo’s theme, and the recording, using GarageBand, is balanced and not overly processed.

The project was an experiment of sorts to see if she could master the complexities of recording, she says. “I love hymns, and they are great to play around with, and to learn how to improvise.”

Her thoughts are always on the future and about what kind of lifestyle she wants when she’s 30 or 40. Family is important to Grace, and being a musician on the road, and possibly dragging children around from hotel to hotel, would be a rough lifestyle, she says.

“Long term I just want to write, and create, and so I thought if I can be as proficient as I can, it gives me a lot of freedom to be more independent in what I want to do and when I want to do it.”

Since she is unable to work as a musician while living in Texas, Grace plans to spend her time writing and creating, and learning the processes involved in studio recording.

She also plans to create plenty of online content and collaborate with people back in Canada in co-writes, so that when she returns in two years’ time, she can “hit the ground running.”

“I am very excited about everything that’s happening. I miss home lots, but I’m excited to bring back what I learn from here, and maybe take what I bring from home to here.” life

“I’m excited to return to Alberta in two years’ time and bring what I’ve learned to the music scene”

Extraordinary talent in Airdrie

BY PATRICIA MERRICK

Airdrie is full of extraordinary talent and thanks to the Airdrie Performing Arts Society, you can experience it firsthand through a night of live entertainment showcasing Airdrie’s best performers.

The 11th annual showcase concert of the Airdrie Rotary Performing Arts Festival is set to fill Polaris Centre for the Performing Arts with an assortment of musical harmonies April 2 at 7 p.m. Festival co-ordinator Jennifer Harbour says she is hopeful the show will go live this year for the first time since 2019 but could be held virtually, depending on COVID-19 restrictions.

“You have children playing classical pieces on the piano, you have children singing classical foreign-language opera, broadway-style performances on stage....” Harbour says. “It’s just phenomenal – the level of talent that we have in our city. As soon as I sit and I listen to the performances, I’m just awestruck.”

The concert is the finale of a 10-day festival for anyone ages five and older to perform a variety of disciplines, including piano, voice, musical theatre, speech, strings, guitar and ukulele. It’s an educational, non-competitive festival that consists mostly of children and youth. Harbour says it provides a platform for those living within the Rocky View Schools district to perform in front of professional adjudicators hired by the society.

“Our students – they’re typically in music lessons of whatever discipline it is that they’re focusing in on – and they will prepare their pieces and perform them in front of a live audience and the adjudicators,” Harbour says. “The adjudicator makes notes that the students can take home with them and then they’ll do a master class and sometimes work individually with those students during the sessions.”

The festival will run from March 21 to 31. Registration is closed but tickets for the showcase concert are $10 and can be purchased starting March 21. Money raised from registration costs and ticket sales covers festival expenses, as well as scholarships for the students recognized for extraordinary performances by the adjudicators.

Tickets can be purchased through Harbour via email at jt.harbs@gmail. com or phone at 403-585-6532. There will also be a 50/50 draw at the concert to raise funds for the society and those tickets can be purchased online at airdrierotaryfestival.org

“There’s no other place in Airdrie for our youth and our children to be able to perform live on stage and to receive an educational workshop session with a professional, who may be a university instructor or a professional musician themselves,” Harbour says. “Being able to showcase that on stage in this concert is a very unique opportunity for our city and something that just doesn’t happen every day.” life

“It’s just phenomenal – the level of talent that we have in our city. As soon as I sit and I listen to the performances, I’m just awestruck.”

CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL RETURNS

BY TARA LEVICK

Inspired by a five-year-old’s question of “who looks after the animals?” after a trip to the Calgary Zoo, Airdrie Children’s Festival Society (ACFS) founder Pete Lewis felt compelled to create a community-wide event to answer this and other great questions. With the help of the inaugural board and a vision “to enrich the lives of children and celebrate our cultural diversity,” the annual Airdrie Children’s Festival was born.

After a COVID break, the festival is back this year. Designed to create curiosity, inspire creativity and remove fear, the event and activities will be held again at Nose Creek Park on May 28 and 29. Just as in previous years, to remove barriers to participation, the Festival will be free for all to attend. “Let kids just be kids,” says Lewis. “Kids and families are constantly bombarded with ‘buy this or that’ so this is the one time that they can come out, have fun and be free from that.”

The last time the festival ran (2019) there were more than 6,000 visitors and the 2022 return will be even better. The Inspiration Stations continue to be the base for the festival. These hands-on, accelerated learning centres are hosted by businesses and organizations in the Calgary region, allowing kids the chance to see, feel and learn about stuff they might not otherwise. Things like, who looks after the animals at the Calgary Zoo? Citywide workshops create windows into what could be possible, where kids can do things like work on cars with mechanics, write short stories with published authors, or go on-air with a local radio station.

Even the Cam Clark Ford and Martin’s Pest Control Entertainment Stage is packed with performers who believe it is important to teach kids to be confident, to respect themselves and others, to love the environment around them and to dream BIG. Expect big fun and big laughs from returnee Smilin’ Rylan and other engaging performers in 2022. life

More details will come for the event, so make sure to like and follow Airdrie Children’s Festival on Facebook for updates and safety protocols.

EXPERIENCE THE AIRDRIE HOME & LIFESTYLE SHOW THIS SPRING

The Airdrie Home & Lifestyle Show, presented by Cam Clark Ford and hosted by the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce, is back! The Chamber invites you to take in everything this long-standing community event has to offer: Saturday, April 23 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, April 24 from 10 a.m.4 p.m. at Genesis Place.

This show has been in Airdrie for more than 40 years and is a yearly highlight for many. The event showcases more than 175 vendors from Airdrie and the surrounding area and is an excellent opportunity for consumers to support and shop local!

Come to the show to shop, compare, try and buy! Admission is $5 and children 12 and under are free. The first 250 attendees each day will receive a swag bag full of goodies. Every paid admission into the show equals one door prize ballot to be entered to win amazing prizes plus an exhibitor bingo card to play while checking out the exhibitors.

The Airdrie Home & Lifestyle Show has always been known for its entertainment stage. This year, the Chamber will be offering an exciting lineup

of entertainers for individuals of all ages to enjoy. Daily speakers with a focus on home and lifestyle will be sharing their tried-and-true tips and tricks, attendees will have a chance to partake in the money tunnel where you can win money to spend at the show, plus we will have VIP special guests that you will not want to miss.

Be prepared to purchase products while attending the show as many exhibitors offer specials and heavily discounted prices. Take advantage of these opportunities to buy great items to enhance your own home and lifestyle.

Visit the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce at airdriechamber.ab.ca for additional details including a list of exhibitors that will be in attendance. Be sure to plan your day around attending the show as this is also a great opportunity to socialize, something that has been missing in our daily lives. Kick start your spring right by attending the Airdrie Home & Lifestyle Show to get inspired with some fresh new ideas.

Please note: Genesis Place is currently operating under the Restrictions Exemption Program. life

GROWING TOGETHER.

LIVING BETTER COMES NATURALLY

Introducing Wildflower by Minto Communities, a new, master-planned community inspired by agriculture and rooted in sustainability. Enjoy panoramic views not seen anywhere else in Airdrie.

Blending modernization with tradition, COBS Breads strives to bring quality products and information to customers, making them one of the main sources for fresh bread products in Airdrie.

With transparency on ingredients a major draw, the Towerlane bakery is receiving an upfront facelift that will provide even more information to bread lovers.

“There’s lots of nice upgrades for lots of information,” says COBS Bread bakery owner/operator Alma-Louise Norris. “We’re getting a new, fresh look in the front and we’re hoping everyone will come in and say hello.”

Upgraded lit cabinets, three huge TV screens, and their famous ‘what’s in it’ button will shed even more light for health-conscience bread enthusiasts.

“For people who have digestive problems, we have two breads – the low FOD and long-fermenting sour dough breads which are easier on the gut.”

Using quality, scratch baking techniques with no preservatives, COBS guarantees fresh bread products every morning. From savoury to sweet, lunch pizzas to the Family Favourite cinnamon buns, and gourmet hotdog and hamburger buns, there’s something for everyone.

“Of course we will be gearing up for Easter, with dinner buns and hot cross buns and all the flavours we have at this time of year,” says Norris, who will be taking pre-orders for Easter again.

Locally owned for over 10 years, Norris ensures the shelves are empty at the end of the day by giving back to the

community. She

“We want to make sure our products get to the people who need it. That’s one of the reasons I bought COBS; that they had this built into their business plan was a win for me.”

Working through the early morning hours, COBS business is to produce the best, freshest, natural quality bread products.

“COBS stands for Celebration of Breads. So we’re going to be celebrating our new face lift, our great products, and continue to help people. The staff is always happy to answer any questions.”

donates to Rocky View school lunch programs, outreach charities and the Airdrie Food Bank.

FOR MANY, OBTAINING OUR DAILY BREAD IS ENGRAINED INTO EVERYDAY LIFE.

MEATLESS & MARVELOUS

STORY AND PHOTOS BY CARL PATZEL

Vegetarian lifestyles are becoming more prevalent around the world; yes, even in Alberta.

Finding meatless cuisine in small-city Alberta is akin to spotting Bigfoot – I saw something but wasn’t quite sure what it was. But bear with me, there are some vegetarian nuggets to be mined in our growing community; even fast-food chains are jumping on the plantbased wagon.

So whether it’s a 2022 resolution, a change of diet for health concerns, a meatless Monday challenge, or just a basic need for trying something new, let’s peel off that “I Heart Alberta Beef” bumper sticker and go for a ride on the local vegetarian restaurant scene.

SORSO LOUNGE

With several local beers on tap and a wall of spirits decorating a mountainous, rustic, wood-laden bar, Sorso Lounge may look like a tavern sporting typical bar food.

But this modest, upbeat gem of a joint cooks up plenty of tasty temptations for the veggie lover.

Some shareable and local favourites include an herby goat-cheese bruschetta, hummus cauliflower, vegetarian crab cakes, tempura mushrooms, sweet-chili edamame, mac and cheese, ravioli fungi (mushroom), gnocchi marinara and an Impossible burger.

Tofu tacos put a spicy twist on this traditional Mexican fare.

Three little soft-shell bundles are stuffed with fresh greens, avocado, shredded carrots, pineapple banana pepper salsa, and topped with a sprinkle of black sesame and spicy wasabi mayo leaving a warm, tingly afterglow on the palette.

But the king of the dish is a breaded, fried Asian tofu. Replicating the form of a breaded chicken, this veggie delight produces a crunchy outside and soft inside making for a pleasurable, texture-filled combination, an avenue where many tofu dishes fail.

Sorso Lounge

“Whether it’s a 2022 resolution, a change of diet for health concerns, a meatless Monday challenge, or just a basic need for trying something new, let’s … go for a ride on the local vegetarian restaurant scene”

Jam’s Airdrie

GREATLIFE

OODLE NOODLE

Another restaurant willing to adapt to the meatless connoisseur is the relatively new Oodle Noodle.

This good-food-fast Main Street eatery sports plenty of room for a quick lunch, supper or take-home dinner.

Some Eastern Orient staples, such as green onion cakes, vegetarian spring rolls and Vietnamese salad rolls are intertwined within a menu of noodle-and-rice based dishes.

Served in stacked-to-the-brim boxes, the Vegan Kung Pao integrates chow mein noodles snaking through a nest of shredded carrots, celery, cabbage, onions, broccoli and deep-fried tofu.

Stemming from South Vietnam, the Bun Cha Gio fashioned much the same taste but with vegetarian spring rolls and a signature Oodle Noodle sauce.

Made to order, most of Oodle Noodle’s menu can easily be adapted to a meatless protein diet but for the true herbivorous, this noodle house also presents a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu section.

JAM’S AIRDRIE

The most important meal of the day (according to the self-promoting marketing slogan from Dr. John Harvey Kellogg) can also be the most flavourful for veggie lovers. Eggs, while off the menu for vegans, offer a source of protein and essential nutrients for veggie lovers.

Jam’s Airdrie, pronouncing itself as a breakfast spot, quickly comes to mind for the first meal of the day. This quaint, friendly eatery elevates brunch with several white-shell dishes including an Eggs Benedict. This favourite classic dish can be ordered several different ways, all smothered in Hollandaise sauce.

They haven’t forgotten the meatless version, massaging this desired brunch dish with delightful slices of avocado and tomato sitting atop an English muffin. And, no yoke, the softly poached eggs flood the plate with golden goodness and are accompanied by endless hashbrowns for those who want to get their potato fix.

A veggie sandwich and hungry man scrambler also fit the vegetarian diet, as do the pancakes or French toast for the sweet, carbohydrate enthusiasts.

Townhomes

ABE’S MODERN DINER

There’s something about a diner that invokes that faint, retro-style, small-town feeling of days gone by. Add in a portion of great food and you have Abe’s Modern Diner.

This busy little corner bistro, dazzling bright with plenty of sunlight, is a burger and breakfast joint specializing in handheld happiness.

While they promote plenty of beef on the menu, Abe’s also provides a Vegan Veggie burger for the plantloving chewers.

No beyond or impossible here, this is a pure veggie patty with chucks of peas, carrots and other goodies. Crispy outside with a satisfyingly soft interior, the veggie patty produces a light, easy-going-down burger, with no animal fat clumping into a heavy ball of digestion.

It’s topped off with fresh spinach, peppers, grilled mushrooms, caramelized onions, tomato and guacamole all on a vegan pretzel bun.

If that doesn’t fit the bill, Abe’s will substitute the veggie patty with any burger on the menu.

SUZANNA’S AIRDRIE

Tucked away in downtown Airdrie just off Main Street, Suzanna’s is a tiny cafe that can be easily missed.

Six booths and a few small bistro tables, this isn’t the largest breakfast/lunch location in town, but as they say, nice things come in small packages.

While there’s plenty of wake-up options, with a small but tantalizing menu offering plenty of meat options, they also offer a vegetarian omelette and breakfast waffles.

Bordering on breakfast and dessert – it’s not just for after supper anymore – I don’t

Suzanna’s Airdrie

Abe’s Modern Diner

waver much from the waffles. A delight for the eyes as well as the taste buds, these little triangle-shaped morsels are combined with maple syrup, whipped cream and a bevy of berries.

Pockets of syrup and juice from blackberries, blueberries and strawberries provide a nice sweetness but hover just this side of savoury to fit into the brunch category.

The vegetarian omelette unites fluffy, light-as-a-cloud eggs with bell peppers, mushrooms, onions and cheese for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

CHERYL’S COUNTRY KITCHEN

If roast beef, Sunday turkey dinners and mounds of food summon thoughts of a country kitchen, you wouldn’t be wrong.

With plenty of comfort food brimming across the menu, Cheryl’s Country Kitchen placates the need for a home-cooked meal. And while asking where’s the beef will get a plethora of answers, the vegetarian won’t be ignored.

Among the meatless contributions are stuffed mushrooms, mozzarella sticks, bruschetta, onion rings, yam fries and a vegetarian lasagna.

Fitting nicely under the relaxing, homemade-restaurant theme, this traditional Italian serving boasts chunks of sautéed mushrooms and peppers layered in tender noodles, spinach and cottage cheese.

A sweet and savoury homemade tomato sauce ties it all together in a hot metal dish and a thick layer of melted mozzarella cheese browned to perfection tops this treasure.

Foreshadowing the possibilities of leftovers, the lasagna is accompanied by a takeaway container, even before the asking. Extra points if you can eat the whole thing.

THAI CHARM EATERY

Thai Charm Eatery has been, well, charming my taste buds since opening their front doors to authentic Thai and Chinese cuisine.

Beyond a multitude of Chinese-style dishes, this amiable outlet hosts some of the best traditional Thai curries and stir fries around.

Their spicy specials can be massaged from mild-to-hot with a rainbow of green, red and yellow curries and accompanying protein choices, including a vegetarian tofu option.

The yellow Thai curry, slightly different from East Indian dishes, uses lemongrass for a sweet-with-a-little-bit-of-heat zest. The silky broth encompasses golden nuggets of vegetables, with healthy chunks of broccoli, mushrooms, onions, pepper and deepfried tofu.

While totally gratifying – like I could eat this five times a week – a basil stir fry complements this course with a house-roasted chili paste and plenty of vegetables swimming in a well-balanced sweet, zesty brown broth.

A jasmine coconut rice helps soak up this goodness, leaving a pleasant warmth on the tongue.

Thai Charm Eatery Cheryl’s Country Kitchen

TANDOORI HUT

From the land of Indian street food and the sacred cow, you’d expect to find plenty of plantbased sustenance options.

A Kingsview Market treasure, the Tandoori Hut restaurant promotes a gluten-free, vegetarian/vegan dining experience to suit any dietary restrictions. Named for the Tandoor clay oven cookery popular throughout India and the world, their preparation serves up scrumptious traditional sauces.

The Vegetable Korma composes peas, carrots, green beans and potatoes drowning in an orange, rich pistachio-and-cashew-based sauce. If you’re going to drown, this is the way to go. No meat required here.

Another delicacy is the Shai Paneer which combines a smooth-as-silk Indian cheese in a sweet-and-heat butter chicken sauce – picture the sweet warm glow of sitting in front of a fireplace at -32 C. Flakes of herbs and spices complete this orange-coloured saucy wonder.

Just enough spice to clear the nasal passages, there’s plenty more on the Tandoori Hut menu to get your veggie on. Of course, no East Indian meal is complete without a good helping of coconut rice and steamy, buttery naan bread. life

Tandoori Hut

to landing this new job I was feeling burnt out, stressed and tired of neglecting my self-care. When I saw this contest I kind of just held my breath and jumped off the ledge.”

NEW YEAR, NEW JOB, NEW VIBE!

REIMER

“Prior

PHOTO BY KRISTY

We put the call out last year for someone looking for a new look for the new year and Sandy Bartley checked all the boxes and more as she was starting a new job!

Mary Ann Lacoursiere, owner of Envy Salon and Spa, was thrilled to work with Bartley.

“Sandy was so lovely to work with. The first thing we needed to address was the density and thickness of her hair. What a lucky lady she is. Her hair is thick and lush and has curls and movement. “

Bartley brought a photo for inspiration and Lacoursiere kept it in mind as they analyzed her face shape to determine fringe length and a flattering length for her.

Bartley’s skin tone was also taken into consideration and Lacoursiere decided a cooler, deeper colour with some dimension would be most flattering.

“To ensure a healthy scalp and longevity of the hair colour, Calura Moisture Cleanser and Calura Colour Lock were used and then we finished the whole experience with our customary conditioning hair scalp massage using Calura Moisture Conditioner, giving the hair incredible shine and touchablity.”

Bartley’s new job requires a relaxed professional look so styling would be easy with a blow dryer and larger round brush or a blowout brush. Styling products include heat protector.

“I cannot stress the importance of this enough,” says Lacoursiere. Instant Gratification Corrective Cream provides built-in heat protection, helps control frizz and protects against environmental damage. Calura Express Blowout Mist was also used at the end to help reduce blowout time while encouraging incredible shine. Interesting side note – all the hair products used are Canadian made.

Amanda Tozser, “makeup artist to the stars” (really – she has been working on TV and film projects in the Calgary area), stepped in to prep Bartley for the photo shoot. “We talked about makeup for mature skin, which means hydration and evening out our complexion as we get older. Shimmers and glitters are not our friend. They can make our eyes look smaller,” Tozser explains.

“I gave her soft whisp eyelashes that are longer flare on the edges, so they lift the eye and open it more … (and) matte long-wear lip liner and soft contouring on the cheeks and jawline.”

Bartley was thrilled with the results.

“Prior to landing this new job I was feeling burnt out, stressed and tired of neglecting my self-care. When I saw this contest I kind of just held my breath and jumped off the ledge. I thought, hey, why not throw my name in the hat. I felt like I was truly given the chance at a fresh start and if I won, it would just be the universe telling me I was moving in the right direction. I was most nervous about just putting myself out there. It’s hard to ask for help but I’m so glad I did. I met amazing people and it really boosted my confidence. It was exactly what I needed.” life

THE TEAM FITNESS CHALLENGE: final results

2021 was not a great year in so many ways BUT our fitness challengers rose to the occasion and surpassed everyone’s expectations, especially their own! Thanks to a dedicated support team of Rochelle Court at Orangetheory Fitness (OTF); Tricia McDonald of OTF and The Yoga Junction; and Jennifer Velasquez at Simply For Life.

Head coach Rochelle Court says the final decision on picking the winning team was incredibly hard because “everyone was just phenomenal.” Ultimately, the husbandand-wife team of Ryan and Patricia Browning were crowned the champs.

“They encouraged each other, as well as others in the group, had incredible progress, and boosted the community feel. On top of that, they have encouraged their daughter to become active like mom and dad, have both taken it upon themselves to further their training and sign up for races, and they’ve asked questions to fulfill a healthier lifestyle.”

Our six challengers share some of their inspirational journey here and you’ll find an extended version of their stories online at airdrielife.com

SYLVIA WHITE

Weight - 158.2 lb Chest - 35”

Upper ab - 30” Belly button - 29” Hips - 42”

What are you most happy with about your experience in the challenge?

What I’m most happy about with this experience is all the accomplishments achieved. My weight loss was consistent every week, which helped keep me motivated and focused. I was able to increase my speeds and distances on the treadmill, lift heavier weights, achieve relaxed focus during yoga class, but best of all was I found a love of taking an hour to work out, and take time to do something for myself. What has surprised you the most?

I was most surprised at how easy it became to establish better health habits after having small victories. I found I was making sure workouts were being booked and set into my schedule. Before this, the idea of working out was not overly appealing, but that has definitely changed. I never thought I would look forward to heading to gym. But I do now! I love to see what challenge I can conquer during that class. My food choices are much better also; I’ve had to remind people that I’m not on a diet, but that I’ve made a lifestyle change.

PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

CHAS ZAHORCHAK

Weight - 116 lb Chest - 33”

Upper ab - 28.5” Belly button - 29” Hips - 35”

What skill, technique or lesson is your best takeaway – what will you continue to do moving forward?

The lesson I take away the most is really understanding how nutrition impacts my body the way that it does; being able to take this experience and apply what I’ve learned as I need to through the next phase of my life. I feel far more educated about nutrition and without the support of my coach, I’m not sure I would have been able to figure it out on my own.   Share an inspirational or funny or frustrating moment your team shared during this challenge.

Sylvia and I would work out together a few times a week; she didn’t know, but I would secretly try to at least match her in splat points and intensity. But she’s a beast at the gym and I’m still working to beat her level of intensity in a class, whether it’s rowing, weights or on the treadmill. Don’t tell her, but I’m secretly still trying to get there lol. So I guess she has been what’s been inspiring me through the challenge

TARA STREET

Weight - 181.8 lb

Chest - 38”

Upper ab - 33.5”

Belly button - 37” Hips - 44.75”

What are you most happy with about your experience in the challenge?

I have to say what I am most happy about with my experience during the challenge was finding that sense of community and piece of self again. I didn’t realize how much I missed having that in my life and how much it affected my own mind and body connection. To find that feeling of belonging, support and encouragement has been amazing.

What has surprised you the most?

What has most surprised me during this 12 weeks has been the changes in both mind and body. Not only was I able to push my body through the uncomfortable but I also found myself being able to sit in the uncomfortable and find balance in the connection of mind and body. I have been working for a long time to get the two in alignment with each other and can finally feel that connection.

SAMANTHA SMITH

Weight - 218.2 lb

Chest - 42.75”

Upper ab - 34.5”

Belly button - 39” Hips - 47”

What skill, technique or lesson is your best takeaway – what will you continue to do moving forward?

I am still learning to listen to what my body needs. However, when you can commit, learn and challenge the changes for yourself, that is when you can become a better version of yourself.

Share an inspirational, funny or frustrating moment your team shared during the challenge.  Our team shared a lot of great moments together; my favourite would be learning how similar we actually are, without realizing it; it’s like we share the same brain sometimes. I am beyond grateful for Tara. We worked hard to reach our goals. We also learned from the other teams and gained some valuable friendships along the way. It is nice to find others who share similar struggles, who can be real about it, and who truly want to see others succeed. I look forward to seeing how we all continue in our health and wellness journey, and I am excited for these new relationships that were built.

PATRICIA BROWNING

Weight - 232.4 lb

Chest - 45”

Upper ab - 38”

Belly button - 35” Hips - 51”

What has surprised you the most about yourself?

I am most surprised that I was able to cut more than four minutes off my mile run! Before I would only run if I was playing sports, but I actually find it therapeutic. Who would have known I could ever enjoy running? I’ve really learned that weight doesn’t define physical ability. I am more capable than I ever gave myself credit for.  What skill, technique or lesson is your best takeaway – what will you continue to do moving forward?

I am soaking in every single lesson and technique I have learned so far and I am running with it, for life. This competition was the perfect kickstart to my amazing journey of health and wellness. I am going to continue eating to fuel my body in a healthy manner. I am going to continue to slay the gym at Orangetheory. I am going to continue to ease my mind and honour my body at yoga and most importantly I am going to continue to love myself because my journey is far from over. Also, a good bra and running shoes go a long way.

RYAN BROWNING

Weight - 206.6 lb

Chest - 44”

Upper ab - 39.75”

Belly button - 37” Hips - 41.5”

What has surprised you the most about yourself?

What surprised me the most was how fast and far I developed in what seemed to be such a short period of time. In the start I struggled to hit 1.4 miles on the treadmill. Now I’m running three to four miles with half the effort. Yoga was also a big surprise to me as well. Honouring my mind and body has changed my view of myself and how I live and has helped me to manage my day to day.

Share an inspirational, funny or frustrating moment your team shared during the challenge.

What has been inspiring for me is seeing my whole family being healthier and stronger. My seven-year-old daughter wants to run and fuel her body with healthy “fuel” and understands she must go to bed early to rest her mind and body.

It has inspired me to be someone to lead and look up too. I want to continue to set the bar and be the example and inspiration for my whole family and friends.

I’m very happy and thankful for this opportunity. It started out as a challenge and has turned into a new lifestyle. My new goal for myself is to do a 70.3 triathlon in July. I’m thankful for all the people I have met and helped me with my goals. It’s truly a community looking out and cheering you on.  life

petlife

How

Puppy season is upon us! Life is full of cuteness, squeals, gasps, disasters and oodles of advice, especially on how to get them socialized. What exactly does that mean to you?

Consider how your dog’s world looks to them. What environment do we want them to live in and be comfortable with? What will our daily grind and home environment look like as we adapt to an ever-changing definition of “normal”?

Do you enjoy having family and friends over and want them comfortable with visitors? Love to spend your time in the great outdoors being active and need a good partner? Or are you the low-key, stay-inside-with-puppycuddles-on-the-couch type? Get the support you need to achieve your personal goals with your dogs.

Find an accredited, certified trainer who supports choice-based methods and understands the behavioral fallout that aversive tools and punishment have supporting the archaic theory of dominance.

Set your dog up to be successful in your world. Instead of correcting behaviors you dislike, work on ways to communicate with them, teaching them what you want them to do instead.

Many dogs have no desire to be the social butterfly! Look for suitable matches for your dogs from various social circles to meet up for play and safe interaction at local private off-leash parks. Building friendships for them is a process where they learn to trust and let loose. Just like us!

Make respectful trips to pet-friendly retail stores for unique indoor learning experiences. This is a fantastic way for younger puppies to see different happy faces and smells, and to get comfortable with short car rides.

Commit to finding what works for your family while keeping in mind you are teaching another species to coexist with you. Kindness works! life

Laura Hudson is owner of The Woof Pack Dog Walking & Pet Services

WITH LAURA HUDSON

“Set your dog up to be successful in your world. Instead of correcting behaviors you dislike, work on ways to communicate with them, teaching them what you want them to do instead.”

Iwas an outspoken crusader for Boomers when 50 became the new 30. And when the Boomers morphed into Zoomers, I declared with alacrity that 60 was the new 40. However, five years later, I can unequivocally claim that 65 is definitely not the new 45.

One of the first proofs of this was calling a colleague about getting this assignment. She couldn’t talk because she was preparing for a doctor’s appointment. I suggested a coffee on a different date. That wouldn’t work because she had to take her husband to the hearing aid clinic. I sent her an email.

A conversation with any person at this life stage invariably begins with a shared list of ailments, and all the appointments required to fix everything from hammer toes to cataracts. We’ve got ‘em all! Some are more serious than others, that’s true. And nothing to laugh at. But at our age, laughing has become one of our dearest allies on this newish journey.

My uncle, who was 81 in February, is still pretty spry, playing hockey in the winter, baseball in the summer. He says half his friends get miffed if he mocks his own aches and pains. “Oh, that’s just making fun of old people,” they say. He says being old is funny, and the best time to laugh at oneself. I would heartily agree.

Speaking of spry, former editor in chief of Chatelaine magazine, Rona Maynard, shares her amazing and humorous insight and gave me permission to quote her relationship with the word spry. She begins: “Spry was for the doddering old dears we’d never be.” And concludes with: “I’ve got spry cred. Some people push their limits at the gym to look sharp in tights, others to hike the Camino or train for a triathlon. I follow a program in order to sit in my chair, sleep on my bed and walk my dog with minimal pain.” Love it.

So we have hardening arteries, muscle loss, decreased bone density, hearing challenges, eye issues, blood pressure irregularities … and forgetfulness. That’s a story for another day! But there’s cool stuff too.

A recent study published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B tracked what happened as 50 grandmothers in MRIs looked at pictures of their kids and grandkids. The women exhibited emotional empathy with their grandkids and cognitive empathy for their kids. Which to me means they need us around. A lot! And that’s a good thing about, well, being old! life

“At our age, laughing has become one of our dearest allies”

“HOW COME HE GETS MORE ATTENTION THAN ME?”

If you are the parent of a neurodivergent child, you know how much of your time and energy they can require.

This can leave you with little left over to give to your other neurotypical child(ren).

As a parent, you want to treat your children fairly and give them the same amount of love and attention, but caring for one child that is hyperactive, impulsive and easily distracted demands more of you than the average child.

This is something I struggle with regarding my four-year-old son, who has ADHD and sensory processing sensitivities, and his older, neurotypical sister.

As a family, we work every day to find a balance. We have definitely not perfected it but there are a few things I have found that help to even the playing field:

Flip it around. It can help to point out the good traits of their sibling, rather than focus on their weaknesses: “Yes your brother can be frustrating, but he is also really silly and he makes us laugh, right? Remember that time when he… (example)?”

One-on-one time with both kids is crucial. It is incredibly important that we make an intentional effort to spend time with my daughter on her own doing whatever she wants at least once a day (usually when my son has gone to bed). We also create fun mommy/daddy/daughter dates about once every month.

Avoid problem situations. For us, this means separating the kids during times when they fight (right after dinner) and making sure any restaurants we go to have quick service.

Help them understand. Take the time to explain the complicated feelings they are experiencing. Children do not intrinsically know that it is possible to feel both love and anger towards their sibling. Tell them that you understand they love their brother or sister but that doesn’t make it easier to tolerate behaviour that makes them angry/hurts them. Give them options to cope such as ignoring unwanted behaviours and coming to you for help.

Check in. Every day or two ask your neurotypical child how they are doing (when you are with them by themselves) and see if they need anything from you to help with their sibling.

Acknowledge the good. Just like you do with your neurodivergent child, it is important to “catch them being good.” Saying things like: “Thanks for being patient with your brother when he was upset” makes them want to behave this way more often. life

Stacie Gaetz is a contributor to airdrielife from Calgary’s Child Magazine

parentlife WITH STACIE GAETZ

With nearly half of all marriages ending in divorce, separation has become a socially acceptable norm. However, the way in which divorces are handled by the system is fundamentally outdated and in need of massive disruption. Divorce law is set up for confrontation, and the resulting long, court-contested divorce processes are devastating financially and emotionally to the well-being of families.

The response to the current state of chaos in the family legal system has been a shift toward more and more families choosing alternative dispute resolution practices, such as mediation. The way out of chaos is with clarity and action, with positive intention. Mediation at its heart is bringing together parties to focus on their common interests, i.e., preserving their assets and protecting their kids.

Instead of spending time and energy fighting one another, both sides can focus on their role of being great parents. Kids flourish when parents are able to quickly create a new sense of family normalcy post separation.

As architects of their own agreement, parents are empowered to work through a ‘customized-for-their-family’ parenting plan that ensures the family unit continues to thrive post separation.

The Seventh Generation Principle is based on an Iroquois philosophy that the decisions we make today should result in a sustainable world seven generations into the future. This idea is often used in conversations about energy and resource preservation, but the concept can also be applied to relationships – every decision should result in sustainable relationships seven generations into the future. This starts with putting the best needs of our next generation ahead of our own, and nowhere is this more important than during a separation or a divorce.

Children are happy and thrive when their parents strive to be the best they can be, regardless of circumstance.  life

Christie Moser, CPA, CA is a Chartered Financial Divorce Specialist and the owner of Fairway Divorce Solutions in Airdrie

WITH CHRISTIE MOSER

homelife

COME HOME TO COBBLESTONE CREEK

STORY BY PATRICIA MERRICK

Those looking to move to Airdrie or within Airdrie will have a new option with the city’s newest community underway.

Cobblestone Creek is located in the city’s southwest quadrant, directly south of Chinook Gate, and construction on the first phase began summer 2021. Showhomes are currently under construction and set to open in May, according to Ruth Price, project co-ordinator for Melcor, developer of the community.

“I think people’s ideas of what they want [have] really changed due to the pandemic. They’re spending a lot more time at home; they want something kind of calm and peaceful, which is our vision for the community,” Price says. “A calm

that feels like your oasis in the middle of chaos.

come home to, belong to a community, have

environment

Somewhere you can

your peace of mind.”

“People’s ideas of what they want [have] really changed due to the pandemic”

The development includes nine phases and is planned for completion in 10 years. It will bring approximately 1,200 new residential units, with a variety of housing styles, to Airdrie. According to Price, one of those styles includes a brand-new style to Airdrie that’s ideal for first-time homebuyers.

“Zero-lot-line product essentially allows a first-time homebuyer to own a single-family home with four walls of their own. A purchaser who may have only qualified for the price of a duplex or semi-detached home would now have a single-family home as another purchasing option,” Price says.

Builders for the development include Shane Homes, Excel Homes, Rohit Communities and Douglas Homes. The first phase of construction is now complete and

consists of 90 lots that include single-family front-drive homes, laned single-family homes, duplexes and semi-detached homes. Construction on the second phase will kick off this spring and will include 116 lots with zero-lot-line and starter-type homes, as well as a mix of front-drive and laned single-family homes.

Price says Cobblestone Creek will also be a great option for those looking for more space or to downsize. Prices will start in the $400,000s. The new community will include parks, walking trails, a space for community gardens with picnic tables, basketball and tennis courts, and a K-9 school.

Fields border the west side of the community while a dry creek bed borders the east side and amenities are to the north. To the south is a future recreation centre planned for completion in 2025, according to Price.

“Cobblestone Creek will be a master-planned community, tucked in the southwest corner of Airdrie where you can come home to calm,” she says. life

MIDTOWN CONTINUES TO GROW

STORY BY PATRICIA MERRICK

Midtown has quickly become a popular community in Airdrie and continues to grow.

Shane Homes has 40 new lots planned for 2022 for paired homes and park-front paired homes, where the front of the home is facing onto a green space or park. Karen Kotchar, area sales manager for Midtown, says these homes are ideal for those looking to downsize or as she calls it, “right” size. Construction on the new lots is planned for this spring and summer as part of Midtown’s seventh phase along Midgrove Drive S.W.

“A lot of my buyers that were in the first phase of these parkfronts – they love them because when they’re older and they have their grandkids come over, they have all this green space right out front where the kids can run around and play,” Kotchar says. “They’re facing onto a green space so they’re not facing onto a road – they don’t have to worry about street traffic out front but it’s a nice, beautiful manicured green space and park.”

Midtown will also be getting new lots for single-family front-garage homes and some of them will have pond- and green-space backyards. The community already offers a variety of homestyles for younger families and first-time homebuyers, as well as for older

people looking to downsize and those looking for more space for the kids as they grow.

Known for its convenient location and combination of urban living and village charm, Midtown is located in the heart of Airdrie and includes an eight-acre central pond, as well as an established shopping area with a doctor’s office, dental clinic, Tim Hortons and gas station.

“Whether you have a growing family with kids or you dream about a quieter life in a smaller city – we have the perfect Airdrie real estate opportunity for you,” Kotchar says. “In Midtown, residents enjoy nearby green spaces, easy access to Calgary via the Queen Elizabeth II Highway and all of Airdrie’s best amenities.”

Most home models can be customized to fit the buyer’s needs, whether they’d like to add a main-floor family room, a double garage or larger windows to allow for more natural light, Kotchar says.

A touch-free experience for viewing showhomes in Midtown is now available and those interested can access an entry code online at shane.utourhomes.com to self-tour the showhome at their convenience. Pricing on the new homes is not available at this time but more information will be posted at shanehomes.com as it’s made available. life

“A lot of my buyers that were in the first phase of these park-fronts – they love them because when they’re older and they have their grandkids come over, they have all this green space right out front where the kids can run around and play”

PHOTOS EYMERIC WIDLING

SPRING CLEANING

WITH KAREN NORMAN

Do you ever wonder where to start, then think about the notion of cleaning so much you end up overwhelmed and de feated before you even begin? First, you need to come up with a practical cleaning strate gy. One that is fun and rewarding.

Decide whether you want to clean and orga nize in small manageable chunks or set aside a whole day and do the bulk of your cleaning in one go. Then create a schedule either for a whole day or for a series of days.

For many with such busy lives, smaller steps can be best. So, if you are going to take the step-bystep approach here are a few tips.

Start with clearing the clutter room by room. Cleaning is so much easier when each room is clutter-free and psychologically it may seem easier to clean then, too.

Next decide whether you want to clean room by room or item by item. Some will prefer to tackle one room at a time from top to bottom. Others may decide they want to address items such as all the windows, countertops, ceilings, walls, baseboards, edges, corners and so on. Or maybe you prefer to do a mixture of both, for example cleaning all the windows and mirrors in the home as well as dusting hard-to-reach areas and then working your way through the home room by room.

Decide when to clean the major appliances. When cleaning each room, you might want to focus initially on ceilings, walls, floors and upholstery and leave certain household items such as the fridge, oven or microwave for another day.

Think about the tools and products needed. There is nothing worse than being excited about your newfound spring-cleaning motivation only to realize that you do not have the cleaning equipment or solutions you need to do the complete job. So off you go to get what you need only to find half the day has disappeared and with it your enthusiasm. That said there are many natural household cleaning products that can be used, such as lemons, salt, baking soda and vinegar. If you ‘Google’ natural cleaning hacks you will find plenty of ideas.

With a plan in hand, spring cleaning your home will give you a sense of satisfaction, help clear the mind of some stress and blow away the winter cobwebs too. life

Karen Norman is co-owner of Dang Good Carpet and Furnace Cleaning

COOKIE CUTTER

Journey Back. Live Forward.

Welcome to Vista Crossing, where life is simplified in a most sophisticated way. Just a short drive to Calgary, this is a place where you can unplug and reconnect with what really matters. Join a butterfly chase in the spacious yards; sip lemonade on the front porch and watch the sun turn in for the night. A gentler pace of life awaits in Crossfield.

Rich in spirit and full of heart.

FROM THE

Single Family Homes

How to get an A+ for accessorizing

Accessorizing well completes a beautiful room just as it does a great outfit. On the flip side, accessorizing can be a major distraction and make a room feel very uninviting. There are a few common mistakes I see that are easily fixed.

Rug size. The front furniture legs should be on the rug. This means your sofas and accent chairs will likely need to be pulled off the perimeter walls too. The most common size of area rug for a typical living room is an 8’x10’. This will allow for walking flow around a standard-sized coffee table. Don’t worry, you’ll still see enough of your hardwood floors to appreciate them. If you’re not sure of the rug size you need, you can use painter’s tape to lay out your size requirement and pick something up as close to that size as is available. They’re standard sizes, and chances are you’re looking for an 8’x10’ rug.

Standard pillows. I’ve never liked the free pillows that get thrown in with the purchase of box-store sofas. They’re either in exactly the same fabric as the sofa, boring, or in wild fabrics with way more personality than you’d otherwise choose. They’re probably also stuffed with a bulky acrylic insert. Beautiful complimentary neutrals with various textures make such a difference to a cozy living room. Even swapping out the insert for a feather one will make the pillows sit nicer.

Too many small accessories. Lots of little knick-knacks clutter a space and nothing is featured properly. Larger, statement accessories with a few

small knick-knacks strategically placed will achieve a much more attractive space and showcase those special mementoes better.

Art on every wall and hung much too high. Not every wall needs decor on it for the room to feel complete. One large feature piece with a couple of complementary pieces of art are often enough to pull a room together. Ensuring the art is not hung too high will also make visual sense. A general rule of thumb is 57” to the center of the piece.

Not enough or outdated lighting. If the room has a ceiling light fixture, there are so many great options to introduce some personality from flush-mounted fixtures to large pendants. Ensure the fixture you choose will provide adequate light for the size of room. Additionally, you might consider adding a dimmer switch that’ll provide light-level options. Incorporating lamp light is great way to layer lighting. Floor lamps and table lamps can add so much to almost any space. Adding a table lamp to a dining room buffet is an unexpected and yet, beautiful accessory. Considering where the lamp will be plugged in out of site is an important consideration.

Accessories done well can make a room full of tired furniture feel comfortable, inviting and very much on trend. life

Decorator Kim Purvis, owner of Aurora Décor, is pursuing her lifelong passion of creating beautiful home spaces

decorlife WITH KIM PURVIS

PHOTOS

CASSIDY MOEN

“Accessories done well can make a room full of tired furniture feel comfortable, inviting and very much on trend”

SPRING FORWARD

Demand in the Airdrie market has surged relative to longer-term averages but significant need for new inventory levels has been the story for the first quarter of 2022. Airdrie has had some of the highest number of multiple-offers situations I’ve seen in 17 years of selling real estate in this city.

The most recent repetitive question I’ve been asked is “How long will this last? Is it a bubble about to burst? If I sell now, where do we move?” The Bank of Canada has explained that they’re leaving rates where they’re at but they do expect to have several rate increases throughout this year.

You need your “ducks in a row” when it comes to preparing for the onslaught of showings as your property hits the market. Listen to the advice your local real estate experts give you on a pricing and marketing strategy. Buyers – do the legwork with your lender now and get your financing preapproval in place. Chances are you’ll be in competing offers, whatever price range you’re in, so make sure your financing approvals are not the deciding factor when it comes to you winning that multiple-offer situation.

Hire an experienced Realtor to work on your behalf whether you are buying or selling. Realtors that have the experience to navigate through these stressful situations are going to keep you on track and ultimately get the job done correctly for you.

Recently I’ve noticed that properties priced correctly and presented like showhomes are flying off the shelves.

It is very typical for inventory levels to climb in the spring market, but we’ve seen unchartered waters with an extremely low inventory level in all sectors. At the end of January, Airdrie had only 44 active properties for sale including single family, attached homes and condos. These are crazy numbers for a growing city of this size!

Unfortunately, local homebuilders have even implemented holds on builds as their waitlists grow larger and larger with the uncertainty of materials/labour forcing them to limit the amount of builds they commit to at this time.

A January update on interest rates provides a five-year-fixed best rate of 2.79 per cent and a variable of 1.35 per cent, which is extremely appealing for the Airdrie homebuyer or investor.

If you’re a seller be ready to hit the market and reap the rewards of low inventory competition and listen to the steps involved with a multiple-offer situation from your experienced agent. Call your preferred agent today to get an up-to-date market evaluation and trust me when I say you’ll be surprised what your home is worth at the moment.

If you’re a buyer, get your finances in order/preapprovals in place and take advantage of these low rates before they increase. life

Trenton

Pittner is a Realtor with Legacy Real Estate Services

What you need to know about the current market

WHAT’S BUGGING AIRDRIE’S TREES?

STORY BY JOSIE RANDALL

s the days become warmer, creepy crawly creatures are starting to wake up and emerge from the woodwork.

They’re hungry, and ready to fill their bellies with Airdrie’s tree population; something about which experts are hoping to help educate people.

“When it comes to trees they enhance the environment, provide sanctuaries for wildlife and help with climate change. The list goes on and on,” says Nicole Glindemann with Precise Pruning.

“The growth cycle of trees is influenced whenever the seasons change, so it is important to keep them healthy.”

Glindemann works with the City of Airdrie on managing its trees in parks and around streets. She says there are a couple of troublemakers out there to keep an eye out for once the ice starts to melt.

Scale insects in particular emerge as crawlers in the spring before forming a hard shell

over them as protection. They pierce trees and suck the sap causing branches to die in large numbers.

A sort of sooty mould forms on infected trees with scales and gives them a black ened appearance.

Ash bark beetles hatch under the bark, where larvae tunnel around disrupting the flow of nutrients in the tree causing its branches to die.

Spider mites, budworms and weevils are some other pests to keep a close eye out for, along with any rough black swellings or knots and red or fire-scorched leaves and branches, as that could be an indication of a fungal or bacterial infection.

Glindemann recommends stepping outside and taking a good hard look at how your trees fared over winter.

“Start by looking at the very bottom; do you see any rodent activity? They’re a pest too. Then take a look at the trunk and branches. If we look close enough during the springtime we should be able to see evidence of some pests emerging or becoming active.”

From there, Glindemann recommends checking that irrigation systems are working properly, topping up plant beds and tree wells with mulch or wood chips and applying fertilizer to tree roots.

Regularly pruning to remove dead branches and making sure trees are getting enough water is also key.

“Overall Airdrie is pretty thoughtful and caring for their trees,” says Glindemann.

“Our tree canopy here does look pretty good compared to other cities. Let’s just make an effort, you know, instead of stopping and smelling the flowers, to stop and look at the trees.” life

“If we look close enough during the springtime we should be able to see evidence of some pests emerging or becoming active”

WORKLIFE | COLUMN

worklife

MEET THE MOVERS, SHAKERS AND BUSINESS MAKERS 58

DIGITAL INVESTMENT

businesslife

WITH JESSICA WILLIAMSON

Want a new game that will amuse and maybe embarrass your friends and family? Ask them to share their weekly screen time.

For many, the numbers are a little shocking. While we have carefully tracked our children’s screen time for more than a decade, technology companies, such as Apple, have recently started notifying us adults that we stare at our phones much more than we realize.

Screen time has become a means to stay connected and informed, increasing drastically during COVID-19. We now habitually check the web before venturing out – confirming whether our favourite restaurant is open, what public health restrictions are in place and if items we want to buy are available for curbside pickup or delivery.

On the other end of what we view on our screens are thousands of businesses. They are making the digital experience possible through updates to their websites and Google listings, posting to social media about the latest and greatest products and services and modifying the shopping experience with online booking and e-commerce stores.

What has changed for businesses in the age of ‘smartphone life’ and COVID-19? Well … everything!

It’s why the Government of Alberta recently announced a $10,000,000 investment, over two years, to help small businesses across Alberta adapt to the new realities of the digital economy. This new provincially funded program is based off a proven model that has supported more than 40,000 businesses across Canada in the last five years.

The Digital Economy Program consists of two initiatives that provide small businesses with free support and easy-to-use tools to grow and manage their online presence.

The first part of the program, ShopHERE powered by Google, helps small businesses create and operate an online store and offers advice for marketing their products and services. This first initiative is managed by Business Link, an Alberta non-profit with a mandate to support small businesses.

The second part of the program, the Digital Service Squad, is available locally. Small businesses in Airdrie, those with less than 50 employees, can apply to receive free one-on-one technical support to set up digital technologies ranging from websites to Google business profiles, social media, e-commerce, onboarding to airdrie.chambermarket.ca and more.

Digital Service Squad members are equipped with education and experience in digital marketing and are ready to help local small businesses ‘get digital’ to meet consumers’ needs for information, experiences, connection and online commerce. This second initiative is managed by Community Futures Centre West and will support several communities in our region, including Airdrie, Crossfield, Rocky View County, Cochrane, Canmore and Kananaskis.

Airdrie, watch for improved online experiences coming soon to a (mobile) screen near you. life

To learn more about the Digital Economy Program, check the eligibility of your business and get started; visit mydigitalbusiness.ca

Jessica Williamson is an economic development officer with the City of Airdrie

Avalon Lukacs was in her mid-20s when she started suffering from cystic acne.

Over the course of four years, Lukacs went through a cocktail of medications and topical creams before she turned to supplementing her diet.

“My gut flora was disrupted, and at the time I had no connection between the two. Healing my gut is actually what healed my skin,” says Lukacs.

“It just really blew me away that there was this need to supplement our diet. Whether it be from stress or missing nutrients, these all disrupt our gut flora. That led me on this journey to want to create my own wellness brand.”

Lukacs launched Aura Inner Beauty from her Airdrie home in 2019 with her Inner Beauty Restorative Powder. It was created from ingredients she used to treat her own gut.

A SPOONFUL OF WELLNESS

STORY BY JOSIE RANDALL

PHOTO SHEENA ZILINSKI

Now, the wellness brand has multiple elixirs, bundles and utensils to nourish beauty from within.

All while using bioavailable nutrients, and not synthetic vitamins, sugar or other additives.

IT’S ALL IN A TEASPOON

Lukacs doesn’t want Aura Inner Beauty to be just another health and wellness brand selling products. Instead, she wants to educate people on the benefits of supplementing their diet to help with issues.

And it might take less than you think.

According to Lukacs, one teaspoon of Restorative Powder is the equivalent of taking five to 10 supplements.

“The cost per serving of one of our supplements is less than $3 per serving. As a society we haven’t really normalized this idea of wellness. But we have totally normalized a $6 coffee from Starbucks that is all caffeine and sugar,” she says.

“It’s my hope that my brand can kick start normalizing more conversations around quality and wellness.”

For Lukacs, finding your inner beauty is as simple as tuning into how you are feeling and just supporting what you need. For example, are you lacking energy? Are you feeling a lot of mental stress or fatigue? Are you breaking out?

“There is so much good in getting the right nutrients to your body. You just need to start with what you want to heal,” she says.

HARD WORK AND PERSISTENCE

Lukacs continues to run her business right out of her Airdrie home, with a warehouse in Calgary.

The majority of her products are made in Canada, manufactured in Vancouver.

Her products have been featured in the Jilly Box – a quarterly subscription box compiled by Canadian television personality Jillian Harris. They’ve also been featured in wellness and lifestyle brand Goop, founded by Gwyneth Paltrow.

Aura Inner Beauty can also be found in many high-end retailers like Holt Renfrew in Canada, and Bergdorf Goodman in the U.S.

In 2021, Lukacs won the RevolutionHer Momentum Small Business Award which recognizes entrepreneurs focusing on innovation and leadership through their business. She was chosen out of more than 1,600 nominees in North America and awarded a prize package to help further expand Aura Inner Beauty.

Lukacs attributes her success to hard work and persistence. She has a dream of seeing her products on the shelves of highend retailers, and the ambition to get there.

“When I first started wanting to develop the company, I actually was in the middle of my MBA and I used an entrepreneurship class as a kind of ground to build what would be Aura Inner Beauty,” says Lukacs.

“My greatest accomplishment is having this vision and really following through on the products I wanted to create and being able to launch in the places that I have always envisioned launching in. It’s really an affirmation that we are on the right path and my dream is coming true.” life

“There is so much good in getting the right nutrients to your body. You just need to start with what you want to heal.”

PHOTO DAVID PIKE

PHOTO DAVID PIKE

KATE NORRIS

Myth #1: I should run all of my insurance pol icies through the business as a tax-deductible expense.

Fact: Some insurances are better to be run through your corporation, and others are bet ter to be owned personally. For example, life insurance that is meant for a buy-sell arrange ment with your partner, or to buy out your shares if something happened to you, may be best owned by the corporation. If the in surance is meant to protect your family, it may be beneficial to run outside of the business as not to be subject to taxes, will and probate. You also must exercise caution with ownership of your disability or health benefits through the corporation, as this could be subject to taxation upon usage of those benefits. Talk to your financial advisor and accountant when setting these plans up.

Myth #2: I will miss out on pension plans available to me as a self-employed person.

Fact: Individual Pension Plans (IPPs) are an example of a great way to have a pension plan in retirement. An IPP is a registered, defined-benefit pension that you can set up as a self-employed person. It allows you to build up retirement income under a taxsheltering umbrella and you can get the maximum pension that Canadian tax law allows. This is available to someone who earns “T4 income,” similar to how you create RRSP room. There are also other ways to grow your retirement income in a tax-deferred manner so that you don’t have to miss out on income strategies as a business owner including life insurance, corporate class mutual funds, among others. Your accountant and financial advisor will help you to decide whether to pay in to CPP, or invest in an RRSP account, an IPP or other tax-preferred vehicles. life

Kate Norris is an advisor and CEO of First & Main Financial Services Inc.

NAMASTE

STORY BY JOSIE RANDALL | PHOTO BY KRISTY REIMER

Ayoga studio for all Jessica Jacobs was sitting in a circle of 26 women in Bali when she had a life-changing experience.

The now co-owner of The Yoga Junction was told to speak out loud something they were ashamed of that was having an impact on their lives.

“I legitimately had my hand over my mouth trying to hold back from being sick. I couldn’t help it, it just sort of came out. Nobody gasped. Nobody came over to console me. The only thing that changed in that moment was me,” says Jacobs.

“So I never really wanted to be a yoga teacher, like I didn’t get all fired up teaching people how to do a downward dog. But what did fire me up was the possibility of being able to create a space

where people could come together as they are, and just sort of be authentically themselves.”

Jacobs opened The Yoga Junction in Airdrie with her partner Tricia McDonald in 2021. The idea was to bring her transformative experience in Bali to women and men in the local community through yoga and workshops.

It all stemmed from Jacobs’ already existing wellness retreat business in Water Valley, AB.

BRINGING

THE RETREAT TO AIRDRIE

McDonald was one of the first women to attend Jacobs’ retreats.

She found the experience so transformative, together they hashed out a plan to open a studio in Airdrie. Both felt the

“We are all going through something, and ... to build a community that shows a little grace to that is what we need here”

Jessica Jacobs and Tricia McDonald strike a pose

need to bring a sense of connection to the city after several studios shuttered and classes were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There was something lacking in the yoga community when it came to Airdrie. So, we just believed that there was an opportunity for a studio here that was specific to people who have never done yoga before, who have injuries or chronic pain or maybe have been doing it for years,” says McDonald.

“We just wanted to make something that was way more accessible to a lot more of the community. We’re just at that point where we don’t feel like we need to look a certain way or act a certain way in order to practice yoga so that is why we picked Airdrie. We thought that there was an opportunity to grow.”

A GROWING COMMUNITY

The studio now has more than 200 active members and offers a wide range of yoga classes for beginners and experienced practitioners. They also offer meditation, breathing and drum circle workshops depending on each client’s need and comfort levels.

In an effort to give back to local women, the studio offers a scholarship for free admission to one of their wellness retreats. It is awarded to someone who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend.

Jacobs says creating a positive and inclusive space in Airdrie for people to come together on a regular basis has been wonderful in connecting the community.

“Yoga has been given the image that you have to be doing a headstand underneath a waterfall while pouring a glass of wine while wearing Lululemon. If you can’t do those things and post it on Instagram then you can’t do yoga, and that is not the case at all,” says Jacobs.

“It is really the practice of self-reflection, no judgment, no expectations. Sometimes that means laying on your mat the entire class in Savasana. We are all going through something, and I think to build a community that shows a little grace to that is what we need here. So that’s what we are trying to accomplish in Airdrie, a place where people can come and show up exactly where they are.” life

KEEPING AIRDRIE’S BROWS BEAUTIFUL

STORY BY JOSIE RANDALL | PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

Jillian Sayarh remembers a time when getting your eyebrows done was just an extra special service for a manicure. It led to some pretty interesting shapes that Sayarh would work around as a makeup artist.

Believing there could be a better way, she started using her talents to specialize in brow design.

“People were coming out with brows that were very thin or asymmetrical. In the beginning, around 2007, I was really doing almost entirely corrective work from situations like that,” says Sayarh.

“There weren’t a lot of people doing a great job. So I saw that as an opportunity.”

As the owner of The Brow Studio, Sayarh seeks to create the perfect eyebrows tailored to each client’s face and educate on how to maintain them. She was trained using a specialized technique from a brow expert in Los Angeles working on celebrities.

The Brow Studio opened its first location in Airdrie in August 2021, and has three additional locations in Calgary. Lash, waxing, threading and microblading services are also offered.

THE ART OF THE BROW

According to Sayarh, the best way to have great brows is to start with a good base.

That’s where the COVID-19 pandemic has been helpful, with many women and men skipping treatments to grow in some of their past oopsies when at-home plucking.

As a result, The Brow Studio is seeing early success in Airdrie with many more seeking treatments to freshen up.

Sayarh says her method is so good, you don’t even need makeup afterwards.

“Airdrie was that opportunity for us to move forward, to start putting one foot in front of the other and to progress as a business”

“It is truly different for everybody.... Everybody has a different lifestyle; everybody has different needs and wants,” says Sayarh.

“By having your brows in good shape, you really don’t need to do as much with the rest of your routine. You will look amazing without having to go through a million different steps in the makeup process.”

A HOME IN AIRDRIE

Opening up a new studio in Airdrie made a lot of sense for Sayarh because the community is growing.

She says there’s an increasing population in the community who are looking for local, luxury services and don’t want to drive into Calgary for them.

“I am from a small community myself, so I believe that we look for people in our own community to support,” says Sayarh.

“Airdrie has really welcomed us with open arms and we are so grateful because there were definitely moments of trepidation – especially when you launch yourself into something like this in the middle of a period of time that is so uncertain. We just feel very grateful to be moving forward and to have a community embrace us the way that they have.”

PLANNING FOR GROWTH

The Brow Studio isn’t the only business who opened their doors in Airdrie last year.

Airdrie Economic Development says they welcomed 82 new commercial and 424 homebased businesses to the city in 2021, closing the year with record growth compared to 2019 and 2020.

It’s all part of their 2018-2028 Economic Strategy which outlines a plan to draw visitors, entrepreneurs and talent to Airdrie – while growing businesses and attracting new investment.

That’s a vision with which Sayarh and The Brow Studio align.

“Airdrie was that opportunity for us to move forward, to start putting one foot in front of the other and to progress as a business,” she says.

“We want to continue on the path that we are on. I want to continue building a group of brow artists and possibly expanding once again. There was a purpose in coming to Airdrie, so I am really excited to be out here and grow.” life

Your customers are online. You should be too. Airdrie small businesses are eligible for FREE digital support from the new Digital Economy Program.

Get started at mydigitalbusiness.ca.

Action through Connection: If you own a business, or are a business leader, you have a tremendous impact on the growth and wellbeing of our community. The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce recognizes that by working together and championing local business, we will build a stronger Airdrie. The Airdrie Chamber (AC) is a dynamic, professional organization that provides value to our members and is an advocate for all business. Not only do we create worthwhile connections between our members, we connect members to new clients, and business to government. The Chamber works together with our members to improve the economic, civic, and cultural wellbeing of our community.

Ascend LLP is the Fastest growing Accounting Firm in Canada

We currently have 19 locations from BC to Nova Scotia and are adding locations each year. We serve small centres and rural regions by bringing the capabilities of much larger, urban firms to these smaller, unserved markets.

Ascend is a community accounting firm, meaning that we see ourselves as part of the community and act as professionals and advisors to the businesses and non-profit organizations in the communities we serve.

What can Ascend LLP do for you? There’s no job too small - from personal income tax filing and small business needs to larger corporations. People always call and ask if we are accepting new clients. The answer is resoundingly, YES!

For medium to larger clients, we have dedicated tax people to assist with tax efficiency, re-organizations, estate freezes and other tax planning needs. We also have Chartered Business Valuators in our Airdrie office that serve all the Ascend locations. We bring you the same downtown advisors without leaving Airdrie.

Ascend has a large Agricultural client base. From grain and cattle farmers to quota farming and aquaculture on the East coast, we specialize in farm tax planning and succession planning for family farms. We come to your farm to meet you and service clients north of Red Deer and as far east as the Saskatchewan border.

The Ascend team in Airdrie has grown over 400% in two years and we are so thankful to the people in our community who trust us with their accounting and tax needs. Contact us if you’re interested in a career with Ascend LLP. We’re always looking for people in Airdrie and our other locations.

Airdrie is such a thriving community, growing and changing all the time. As Ascend LLP grows with it, we strive to be the best firm to do business with in the city. Our goal is to determine what’s important to each individual and do all we can to meet their needs! Expect friendly engagement when you contact us. We love living and working in Airdrie and it shows in all we do!

Your Airdrie Chamber of Commerce www.airdriechamber.ab.ca

citylife

A CLOSER LOOK AT YOUR COMMUNITY 62

CITYLIFE | FITNESS

Get into the action with group fitness at Genesis Place

You may not be aware, but Genesis Place is a great place to get your group fitness on. With more than 40 drop-in fitness classes from which to choose during the week, their current schedule is packed full of fun and variety for all fitness levels and abilities. In January of this year, the group fitness team revamped the schedule to offer more class times and options. What’s even better? Group fitness classes are included in all Genesis Place passes. Head over and see for yourself how addictive group fitness at Genesis Place is.

Here’s a sneak peek at a few popular drop-in fitness classes:

• Cardio and Core is a mix of high- and low-intensity cardio. This class is designed in interval format, combining low- and high-impact moves, as well as core exercises, to keep the body guessing.

• Cardio strength is a different class each time using various equipment to tackle intervals of cardio and strength exercises.

• Strength is a non-cardio workout that focuses on muscular strength and conditioning. Using different equipment and body weight, you’ll work all your muscle groups.

• Cycle is great for all levels. It’s a high-energy cardio workout with a mix of hills, sprints and intervals to improve your fitness level and complete your cycling skill set.

• Step and Strength incorporates a combination of choreographed

and non-choreographed step exercises, strength, and conditioning with weights.

• Zumba is a traditional Zumba® class with easy-to-follow routines, based on the integration of dance and dance-type movements, creating a high-cardio, high-energy class.

• SHiNE™ Dance Fitness is the class if you love to dance. It’s a full-body workout that incorporates dance and fitness moves in a high-energy, confidence-boosting class!

• Gentle Body Flow is designed for individuals of all levels. It uses a series of gentle stretching poses, breath awareness and relaxation. No experience required.

• Yoga Flow is a balanced class, which links yoga postures together. The focus is on connecting your breath with your movements. You’ll build strength, flexibility, balance and stamina as you explore the depths of your practice.

• Hatha Yoga is suited to all levels and is designed to help improve flexibility, strength and balance through gentle yoga poses and breath awareness. life

For a complete list of Genesis Place’s group fitness classes including times and descriptions, visit airdrie.ca/GPgroupfitness

For up-to-date information on what’s happening, follow on Facebook and Instagram at @genesisplaceairdrie

A PLUS-ONE WHO’S A REAL PARTY ANIMAL

STORY BY JOSIE RANDALL | PHOTOS BY SERGEI BELSKI

“(It’s) so heartwarming for us to see, because you know he puts a smile on people’s faces. He just brings a little joy to your day.”

On a quaint little farm just 20 minutes from Airdrie lives an alpaca who has stolen the hearts of many in the community.

With his thick padded feet, big furry nose and teeny black eyes, Allen the Alpaca is a curious sight at weddings and birthday parties across the province.

cially if he is glammed up wearing a tie, necklace or sunglasses.

Some kids, however, need to take a minute to adjust to his confidence before eventually warming up to him.

“He has so much confidence, like he pretty much thinks he runs the show. If you take him past a mirror, he is literally obsessed with himself. So, he is always making people laugh,” says Ingeveld.

“That’s so heartwarming for us to see, because you know he puts a smile on people’s faces. He just brings a little joy to your day.”

Generally, Allen is happy to just cuddle up with guests, eat snacks and watch cartoons. His favourite food is bananas, but occasionally he enjoys a house plant or two. He also has yet to make a mess of someone’s house, Ingeveld points out.

Allen can be booked for around $200 for a one-hour visit, and he doesn’t have to come alone. Fuzz Bucket, a mini potbelly pig, and Stanley, a black sheep, can also accompany Allen for an additional cost.

Barn visits can also be booked, where people can enjoy meeting Allen and even more of his animal friends.

It all started when Morgan Cooper and Carly Ingeveld picked him up in the back of a Jeep Grand Cherokee as a companion for other animals on the farm.

On a whim they decided to bring Allen to a llama-themed birthday party.

“We just thought it was a funny joke, honestly. Let’s get an alpaca, that would be funny,” says Ingeveld.

“I ended up taking him to my niece’s birthday party so the kids could see an alpaca close up. I had all these other parents ask me if I would do that for them. So we said ‘why not,’ and he completely exploded, and he was booked solid for a month.”

Since that party, Allen has made special appearances at retirement homes, bachelorette parties and even Canadian singer-songwriter k.d. lang’s home. Allen can also come for individual visits, travelling to homes as far as Okotoks, Chestermere, Didsbury and Cochrane.

A REAL PARTY ANIMAL

Ingeveld says when Allen walks into a room, people’s moods instantly lighten at the sight of the furry, three-foot-tall alpaca. Espe -

A COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT

Allen’s popularity in Airdrie and surrounding communities has gone beyond meet and greets.

Airdrie-based Kim’s House of Baking creates special Allen-themed cupcakes that can be ordered for partygoers. Last year, a local woman even took fleece from Allen’s spring shave to make hats out of it.

He also has more than 13,000 fans on Facebook and Instagram combined and receives messages from all over the world.

“He has given us very cool opportunities to meet a lot of really nice, interesting people,” says Ingeveld.

“I think it just speaks to how much the community loves him as much as we do.”

It hasn’t all gone to Allen’s head though. When at home, Ingeveld says, he’s just like any other alpaca.

“He loves to run around and play with the horses we have,” says Ingeveld.

“I think sometimes he even thinks he is a horse. We have a heated barn, so he cuddles up in there with everyone and you wouldn’t know this five-year-old alpaca is more famous than I’ll ever be.” life

EVERYBODY CAN PLAY THIS GAME

STORY AND PHOTOS BY CARL PATZEL

Dennis Meijndert, Adam Martin and Tom Byrne are ready to throw

Forget the ‘F’ word; this isn’t your backyard barbeque, throw-around-the-Frisbee game of catch. In the right hands, disc golf has become a legitimate serious sport.

Although thought of as a fringe sport, like many passionate pastimes, disc golf has been elevated to a worldwide sport, yet remains accessible to all ages and skill levels.

“From ages six to 80, it’s for everybody,” says Tom Byrne, Airdrie Disc Golf Club president “Truly there’s not much out there that could be more ageless than this.”

Young and old to beginner and experienced tournament players can be found tossing discs at the local Fletcher Park Disc Golf Course which opened in 2021.

Like it’s round-ball-brother game, disc golf presents no limitations on who can spin their way through this green-grass course.

“You don’t have to throw hard. You don’t have to twist hard or give it your all to get out and have fun,” Bryne adds.

Instrumental in getting the sport flying, Airdrie club members worked with the city and were influential in planning and implementing the Fletcher Park course.

Weaving around baseball diamonds, fenced railroad tracks and plenty of trees, the holes vary from 160-295 feet. Short enough for beginners but challenging enough for the experienced disc spinner.

Cemented pole flags display converted propane tanks that emit a harmonious, satisfying resounding bell sound when struck with a putter disc.

“It’s almost like ball golf where you have different clubs. You’ll have putters, fairway driver, mid ranges and distance drivers,” says Dennis Meijndert, Airdrie Disc Golf Club vice president.

This isn’t rocket science, or is it? A dedicated disc spinner may tell you otherwise. Each disc is labelled with it’s own numbering system indicating speed, glide, stable or unstable and fade dynamics.

“Like an airplane wing, you get that air foil physics,” adds Meijndert, an avid tournament disc chucker.

“There’s mechanics to it to make a disc fly. It’s age, strength, etc. but it’s the spin of the disc getting that snap and the spin which makes them fly. Once you figure it out and you hear that snap coming out of your hand. It’s addictive.”

Individual discs sport unique designs and names like Reactor, Nomad, Shark, Trespass and Streamline Pilot, and run around $25-$40 and higher for premium sets. Starter sets – driver, midrange and putter – are relatively affordable; less than a box of golf balls and easier to find in the rough.

Full-time sport, part-time addiction, golf disc collecting can easily become an infatuation with many players searching for that elusive saucer-shaped flier that will soar forever and become a precise tool in the right hand.

“There’s thousands of discs out there, and collector discs. People collect these discs and never throw them and they’re worth a lot of money. I like to throw my discs,” says Meijndert, who hauls around a small golf bag sporting close to 20. life

“You don’t have to throw hard. You don’t have to twist hard or give it your all to get out and have fun.”

Airdrie is getting a new multi-use facility and library. Airdrie’s population growth and the downtown revitalization project contribute to the importance of adding a new facility where residents will gather, connect, grow and learn in the heart of our city. The new facility will be a landmark destination that will bring energy and vibrancy to Airdrie’s downtown. It will be a destination for all offering a wide variety of opportunities for connection, both indoors and out.

The new building will be 85,000 square feet, with 60,000 of that as library and 25,000 as multi-use space, with an estimated budget of $62,703,550. The size of the new facility allows for future growth of Airdrie, as well as meeting the provincial standards and comparisons of similar-sized libraries in Alberta. Completion of this highly anticipated project is expected in 2025.

What stage is the project in now?

The project is currently in concept design and visioning sessions are being completed with Airdrie City Council, the Airdrie Public Library Board and library staff. Gibbs Gage Architects is bringing their 38-year history working across Western Canada and experience as the lead design consultant on various successful projects in Calgary to this innovative project here in Airdrie. Their

AIRDRIE’S NEW MULTI-USE FACILITY AND LIBRARY

work includes Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton, Genesis Centre of Community Wellness and the SAIT Trades and Technology Complex.

What has been done to get to this point?

Conversations began as early as 2011 to address the idea of expanding the current library facility. In 2014, a consultant was brought in to help conduct a needs assessment and present the results to Airdrie City Council for endorsement. From there, a complete review was executed, and by 2017 Council established a New Facility Steering Committee to explore project visions. In 2019, the site was chosen from three possible locations and the location downtown at the old fire hall was the ultimate choice.

In early 2020/2021, bids for project management consultants were distributed and, in turn, Colliers was awarded project management oversight. Throughout 2021, public consultations through online surveys and interviews were conducted, and an online household survey with residents was released to the public. The research sought to collect the public’s level of interest in the project and location, interest in shared facilities (e.g. meeting rooms), to find expected future space needs and what current space needs exist within the community. In September 2021, City Council endorsed the space requirements, programming and other potential facility and site uses.

Closing out 2021, the architect firm Gibbs Gage Architects was selected as the prime design consultant for the project. The architects are responsible for the exterior, interior and outdoor space designs. They have been tasked to create spaces that encourage social connection, gathering, exploration and learning in the facility, all important features that have been identified by stakeholders and public input.

Stay up to date:

All the latest news on the new facility is available at airdrie.ca/ buildingcommunity

The library project team also updates Council on the project status at public council meetings on an ongoing basis. The agendas for these meetings are posted by Thursday mornings, before Monday Council meetings. The past and current agenda and video recordings can be found at airdrie.ca/council

Council meetings are virtually streamed, so residents can enjoy from home. Updates and public engagement opportunities will be provided through city news releases and social media channels. life

AMAZING

This year marks a major milestone for the airdrielife/Pharmasave on Centre Amazing Airdrie Women Awards. It’s the first time we have received more than 50 nominations!

It’s mind blowing and extremely gratifying to me to see this many women (and young women; we have our most ever under 19 represented), featured on the following pages. But it’s also not surprising to me, because I always believed there was an endless supply of amazing women in our city, and this year proved it. I am in awe of the stories, the passions, the strength, the hope and the dignity with which these women hold themselves and are perceived by others. Collectively they have changed lives, saved lives; become role models, defied expectations and raised the bar. I implore you to read each and every story and then contribute your choices for each category by going online to airdrielife.com/amazingwomen as 50 per cent of the decision rests with the community. (The other 50 per cent comes from our editorial team, sponsors and previous recipients.) The deadline for voting is midnight Sunday, April 3. Our individual recipients will receive custom-made necklaces created by Wildfire Rose – see the story on her work on page 12 – and the workplace award recipient will receive a custom painting by local artist (and 2021 Amazing Airdrie Woman recipient) Veronica Funk.

Join us April 28 at the Bert Church Live Theatre for a gala evening when we present all 10 awards. (See the details in the ad on the opposite page.)

Thank you to our AMAZING sponsors without whom this whole endeavor would not happen.

Airdrie Eyecare, Cream Body & Bath, Excel Homes, Explosive Edge, First & Main Financial, GP Law, Illuminate Mortgage Group, McKee Homes, Pharmasave on Centre, Pink Wand Cleaning Services, Pureform Radiology, Shilo Storey, Superior Hearing and Vitreous Glass.

A very special thank you to Doreen Kleisinger, Emma and Kayla Work, the mom and daughters of Tracy Work, in memory of whom the Amazing Courage Award is celebrated. Together they donated $3,500 to create a legacy fund we now call the Tracy Work PayIt-Forward Fund. Starting with our 2021 recipients and moving forward, all recipients will have $100 donated in their names to the charity of their choice. The team at Pureform was so moved by this announcement, they graciously topped the fund off by another $1,000. A beautiful legacy for a beautiful woman.

So read on… 51 women worth your attention! In our 12th year of celebrating, I present to you the 2022 Amazing Airdrie Women nominees.

Sherry Shaw-Froggatt Founder, Amazing Airdrie Women Awards

WHY THE BRICK WALL?

Every year we try to theme our photo sessions and I was reading a quote last winter that really resonated with me.

“The brick walls are there for a reason. The brick walls are not there to keep us out, the brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something.”

It came from The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch, a professor at Carnegie Mellon University in the U.S. who passed away in the summer of 2008 from pancreatic cancer. I highly recommend watching the lecture on YouTube; it was recorded just after he was diagnosed the previous fall. I found many other quotes related to brick walls, but the story behind Randy’s quote was the most moving. Here was a man knowing he was dying, embracing life and sharing lessons with us all. We all face metaphorical brick walls at some point in our lives, (I think I still have dents in my head from the early days of my push for the arts) and most likely every one of the women profiled here can relate. And what most of them have done, to paraphrase a quote attributed to Peggy O-Connell, is tackle those bricks one by one, dismantling the wall and create a new path instead.

THE 2022 AMAZING AIRDRIE WOMEN WERE INTERVIEWED BY JOSIE RANDALL AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY KRISTY REIMER

Tracy Work

CREAM BODY & BATH AMAZING DETERMINATION

ALISER RAMOS has a certain devotion to seeing local businesses succeed. It stems from a concept her parents instilled in Ramos from a young age: to fight for what she believes in. Moving to Canada 12 years ago, she knew she wanted to do something meaningful.

“That was showcasing local business. We live in a little city, so if we come together and support each other and share the love, I believe that can make us better,” says Ramos.

It began with a YouTube channel interviewing small businesses about their dreams. That led to purchasing Abe’s Modern Diner, which provided the opportunity to further her reach.

Ramos would partner with other businesses to create specialty burgers and donate some of the proceeds to charity. Using her blog, The Glez Life, she takes every opportunity to continue showcasing businesses and sharing tips with her thousands of followers.

That enthusiasm is why friend Deanna Vezina nominated Ramos.

“[Aliser] is passionate about supporting local women in business and uses her platform to do exactly that…. She is a positive light in our community, and she wants every woman to feel joy and love in their lives.”

When ERICA LINDQUIST made the decision to change her career, it wasn’t because she had become bored with her profession. Instead, she wanted to make a much greater impact.

So, she left her full-time job as a math and science teacher to take out a student loan for medical school at the University of Calgary.

“I thought, I am going to get older regardless so I might as well do something that I love.”

Between studies, Lindquist serves as the VP Academic for the Calgary Medical Student Association while managing her son’s U13 hockey team.

She’s mother to two boys and two stepchildren who find it just a little funny they are also going to school at the same time as their mom.

“Hearing the things they say, like ‘Mom I am so proud of you’ and that sort of thing, totally makes it worth it,” says Lindquist.

Nominator Santanna Hernandez says it takes incredible determination to take a leap of faith.

“Changing your career at any time in life requires courage but doing it while continuing to serve others shows a level of determination and grace only few can achieve,” says Hernandez.

The Haida/Nisga’a First Nations woman organized an Every Child Matters vigil, to remember the hundreds of children found buried at former residential schools, on National Indigenous Peoples Day.

In 2021, she also requested Airdrie City Council approve a permanent memorial to lost Indigenous children by painting orange footprints in Nose Creek Park.

“There actually is a very large Indigenous population in Airdrie but there is just nothing culturally to immerse ourselves in,” says Jagwaa.

“I thought it was time for me to start taking some personal steps towards becoming the Indigenous woman that I was meant to be.”

Jagwaa has also worked with Airdrie Public Library to create an informational video on how to smudge, and has been an orange shirt speaker at various schools in Alberta since 2019.

She eventually hopes to open Airdrie’s first Indigenous trading post, with additional room for teaching children powwow dancing, Indigenous-led yoga and other wellness activities.

Nominator Sue Methuen says Jagwaa also makes house calls for smudging and gifts dreamcatchers to vulnerable people.

“Jaadaas’ warrior name is Longfeather, which means warrior with a long reach,” says Methuen.

“She speaks for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

JAADAAS JAGWAA is bringing Indigenous leadership to the forefront of Airdrie.

ALISER RAMOS

ERICA LINDQUIST

JAADAAS JAGWAA

MESSNER

When JASJOT SIDHU moved to Canada in 2017, she was determined to start an independent life without asking for any help from her family back in India.

She began working night shifts at Tim Horton’s while planning a new career and life.

“I come from a culture where we help others. When I landed here, I thought what good do I want to do? So, I began volunteering.”

Sidhu reached out to Volunteer Airdrie for opportunities to help others in the community. She became an active volunteer with Community Links, Bethany Seniors and other community events.

But it was volunteering at Ecole Airdrie Middle School that sparked her joy working with children. She enrolled in the Education Assistant program at Bow Valley College while still making time for her night shifts and volunteer work.

Sidhu credits the help of her nominator, David Maffitt, for never feeling alone in Airdrie. Instead, feeling she always has the support of people around her who are cheering on her success.

“I feel like I belong in Airdrie, and I would love to do more for my city and community. I love Airdrie,” says Sidhu.

KRISTY MESSNER has always had an entrepreneurial mindset. She’s built two businesses from the ground up, and decided to focus on creating a cleaner, more environmentally friendly candle after giving birth to two children.

“I had become very aware of the chemicals we all have in our homes and how they negatively impact our health,” says Messner, who created Lagom Candle Design.

“I had been introduced to essential oils over 10 years ago and learned how toxic everyday candles were. In 2019 I decided I missed burning a candle and set out to find a cleaner wax and cleaner scents.”

In 2020, Messner donated a portion of her sales to Brenda’s House and the Children’s Cottage Society. She’s now looking to collaborate with country star Paul Brandt for #NotInMyCity to create a candle where a portion of sales goes towards preventing human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Alberta.

“It’s the work that you put in where you really start to see something grow. Both at home, in business and the community,” says Messner.

“Having your small business find success and then using that success to give back to your local community is what it’s all about,” says nominator Nikki Bergstrom.

NIKI MIDDLETON is focused on going onward and upward no matter what life throws her way.

The 46-year-old is an international award-winning actress and model, most recently winning the Miss Elegance of the World pageant in the U.K.

She has switched careers four times, and has worked hard to be a mentor to those in the Indigenous community.

“Since my father passed away when I was seven years old, things changed for me. I was bullied the majority of my life. When I got older, the corporate world bullied me again,” says Middleton.

“I then became this confident and strong person.”

Middleton is an active volunteer in the Airdrie community, giving her time to help animal services, fitness studios and a variety of community services such as Airdrie P.O.W.E.R.

She also gives her time to mentoring Indigenous girls through the Stardale Women’s Group and driving them to counselling sessions.

Nominator Michael Migliore says Niki has always been determined to accomplish anything she set out to do.

“I have watched her grow her dreams of acting, being a voice for women and a proud advocate for Indigenous people’s prosperity… When you tell Niki that she can’t do something, she will tell you, ‘Really? Watch me,’” says Migliore.

KRISTY

NIKI MIDDLETON

JASJOT SIDHU

TAMMY PLUNKETT

GP LAW AMAZING ADVOCATE

CAROLYN GEERTSEN wants everyone who comes to the Airdrie Food Bank to leave feeling better than when they walked in.

As the Volunteer Manager, Geertsen says that doesn’t just apply to those in need but those who give their time to supporting the organization.

“Volunteering just makes you feel good. If you’re depressed, feeling sad or lonely or whatever, just get out and volunteer because it will make a difference,” says Geertsen.

“Doing something for somebody else always makes you feel better about life and about the world around you taking the focus off your challenges.”

Geertsen has been with the food bank for a total of 11 years, taking some time in Houston to volunteer for homeless organizations.

“I have struggled, so I just want to make things better for other people,” she says.

Lori McRitchie, Airdrie Food Bank executive director and nominator, says Geertsen’s heart and care for the volunteers she works with is inspirational.

“She works tirelessly recruiting, scheduling, mentoring and supporting the 300-plus volunteers that serve at the food bank.... The care she shows impacts all who share their time and talents to feed our neighbors in need.”

MICHELLE ANHORN is quick to offer help to sports teams in Airdrie.

As a mother to three in various leagues, she says it’s important to give back.

“Somebody has to in all reality. Somebody has to help otherwise these kids wouldn’t have a good experience playing sports, but I enjoy it,” Anhorn says.

“I enjoy giving back to the kids and people of the associations.”

Anhorn sits on the board for the Rockyview Lacrosse Asso-

SAMANTHA GINTER

ciation and the Airdrie Minor Hockey Association (AMHA) as tournament coordinator and equipment coordination.

She works tirelessly moving hockey coaching tools like bumpers, nets and jerseys from rink to rink. Each season, she spends four weekends at the arena for tournaments – working countless hours to organize, schedule and gather prizes.

Nominator Cindy Kunitz works hand in hand with Anhorn at the AMHA. She says Anhorn volunteers her time doing difficult tasks with no complaints.

“I have never been around Michelle when she isn’t smiling and making everyone around her feel happy and special,” says Kunitz.

“She brings coffee to the office and sometimes lunch or little gifts to brighten our day.”

SAMANTHA GINTER wants to emphasize that those who use substances are deserving of everything everyone else is. After her partner passed away due to drug poisoning last year, Ginter made it her priority to educate herself and others dealing with substance use.

“I heard paramedics call my partner a junkie and a waste of time and resources. I have heard community members complain that it is a waste of taxpayers’ money for treatment and harm reduction supplies,” says Ginter.

“They are our family members. Our community members. They deserve just as much respect and dignity as you and I do, and I just want them to know that they are not alone.”

Ginter has trained others in the community on how to use Naloxone kits.

She also helped co-host Airdrie’s first International Overdose Awareness Day with the hope to end the stigma towards people who use substances and establish better support systems.

Melanie Wagemakers met Ginter while volunteering for the event. She says Ginter has saved lives in the community through her advocacy.

“While still walking through her own storm, she has still found a way to give back in hopes that she will be able to save someone from the same heartbreak she has experienced,” Wagemakers says.

When one of TAMMY PLUNKETT’s children came out as trans, she dove headfirst into learning as much as possible to make his life better.

Since then, Plunkett has dedicated herself to educating people on the LGBTQ+ community, and amplifying the voices in it.

“It’s not that they don’t have a voice and they can’t speak for themselves; it’s that in general they may not have all the privilege that society offers. That means they may be silent or have their voices dimmed,” says Plunkett.

“As an advocate I try to take their message and push it forward.”

Plunkett currently sits on the Airdrie Pride Board, where she founded Parenting with Pride. The group meets once a month gathering parents and caregivers to learn how to support LGBTQ+ children or young adults.

Next year Plunkett is releasing Beyond Pronouns, a book guiding parents through the journey of their children transitioning and living their authentic lives.

“[Tammy] has helped many families of trans kids as they grow and learn how to support their child,” says nominator Kim Cheel.

“If love and understanding, patience and acceptance, talent and humility were put into a single entity, Tammy would encompass all of those things and much more.,” says Heather Spearman who also nominated Plunkett.

CAROLYN GEERTSEN

MICHELLE ANHORN

EXPLOSIVE EDGE AMAZING ATHLETE

Seventeen-year-old BELLA STOTHART has dreams of playing volleyball professionally.

The Grade 11 George McDougall High School student says the sport has given her more than just a spot on the team.

“I absolutely love the collective and automatic friendships that come with volleyball and team sports,” says Stothart.

“The communication and trust skills that it gives me, and the ability to relax and enjoy what I am doing. I also have a leadership role, so it challenges me.”

Stothart was voted team captain by her fellow teammates at the varsity level. She has also played professionally for the Canuck Stuff Volleyball Club in Calgary; as a co-captain at the Alberta Winter Games and played for Team Alberta this past summer.

Her goal is to play volleyball for a post-secondary team, before trying out for the national team.

Varsity Volleyball coach and nominator Jackie Tobin says Stothart would practice every hour or every day if you let her.

“In true Bella fashion, she is always striving to do more, work harder and ultimately improve. It was a pleasure to coach such a nice, promising young athlete this season,” says Tobin.

“Bella will only get better, and I can’t wait to see what her future has in store.”

KENDALL PATTON has been baton twirling ever since she was three years old.

She wanted to take after her big sister, who also fell in love with the sport, and hasn’t looked back since.

“I really enjoy that it is very challenging,” Patton says. “You can never master it; you just keep trying harder skills and it’s never the same! It’s very enjoyable to go to practice, challenge myself and try new things.”

Patton has represented Canada at four international competitions, in 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019. She won the gold medal at the 2015 World Baton Twirling Federation International Cup with her group, Airdrie Sky High Twirlers.

In the last year, she began coaching youth in the sport with a focus on the importance of teamwork and dedication.

Sacha Patton says she wanted to nominate her daughter because of her commitment to the sport – while working full time and still making time to give back to the community.

“Her involvement in the sport has led her to volunteer for many events in Airdrie, such Rotary Club events, airdrieFEST and others,” says Sacha.

In 2012 Patton’s sister, Taelyr, won the Amazing Airdrie Women Promise Award.

“It is a great sport. It teaches you about respect and that it’s important to work hard.”

Pilon obtained her junior black belt, and eventually her black belt in Shotokan Karate in 2018.

She’s competed on the world stage across North America and Europe, representing Canada for both the World Karate Commission and World Kickboxing and Karate Union. She won her first world championship title and two other world championship titles in 2019 and 2021.

Now, Pilon is training in a new style of martial arts called Zen Karate. She hopes to eventually obtain her black belt in that style and continue competing on the world stage for Canada.

Nominator and former soccer coach Terry Fink quickly realized Pilon’s talent, both on the field and on the mat.

“She was always a very hardworking, team-oriented player with great footwork. She is a quiet, humble honours student who excels at all she does.”

RYLEIGH DUPONT has taken her passion for both dancing and gymnastics and launched herself into the world of cheer.

The Grade 9 student at George McDougall High School has been practicing cheerleading for just one year, but has already made an impact.

KIANA PILON began training in martial arts at the age of five and hasn’t looked back since.

The soon-to-be 15-year-old student at W.H. Croxford High School says the sport started as a hobby, before turning into a passion.

“I started karate because I watched the Karate Kid movies,” says Pilon.

“I think people sometimes think of cheerleading as just a really easy sport, but it’s not. It’s a lot harder than it seems,” she says.

Nominator Liese Reichert is also Dupont’s cheer coach. She says Dupont is one of the most dedicated athletes she’s ever seen.

“In all my years coaching I have never seen someone who is so dedicated and works hard consistently,” Riechert says.

“She comes prepared to practice, works well with others, shows real promise in becoming an extremely talented cheerleader. She is quiet but she leads by example.”

Dupont practices up to three times a week. Focusing on tumbling and building complicated routines like forming the human pyramid.

“I have to do my job really well or else I could end up seriously hurting someone else. I just really, really have to focus on technique and doing my job the best that I can,” says Dupont.

BELLA STOTHART

KIANA PILON

FIRST & MAIN AMAZING LEGACY

HIEN LE believes the best way for everyone to be happy is if their tummies are full.

It’s why her family opened up Petite Saigon, the first Vietnamese restaurant in Airdrie, more than 20 years ago.

“Everyone needs food,” says Le, who took over the restaurant from her parents 10 years ago.

“We use our food as a way to help spread joy because it’s been a rough few years for people, especially families. Giving back is one of my biggest things I try to do.”

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic Le has donated food to those in need. Once a month, Le also runs a giveaway for a free family-sized platter of food.

“I believe what comes around goes around, and that’s why we are here years later,” she says.

Le was nominated 15 times for the Amazing Airdrie Women Awards. Many nominators spoke to the legacy and impact Le and the rest of her family have made in Airdrie.

Nominator Jeremy Winterton says Le has one of the biggest hearts of anyone he’s ever met.

“Most people know her as the owner of Petite Saigon, but I have had the privilege of calling her friend for some time now. There is no differentiating how she treats customers and how she treats everyone else in her life,” says Winterton.

Beverly Robinson says Le has been determined to keep operating her restaurant through the pandemic, while still finding time for her family.

“[Le] and her husband are also raising three beautiful and compassionate boys who are involved in everything from piano lessons to football,” says Robinson.

“She is a dedicated mom who gives back to her community through hard work and determination.”

Le says she is shocked and honored to learn how many in the community wanted to recognize her and Petite Saigon. She says the last few years have been difficult navigating pandemic restrictions.

In late 2021 however, Le signed another five-year lease to continue her family’s legacy in Airdrie. She’s looking forward to eventually celebrating 30 years, whatever may come.

“Even though we had months we weren’t open for dine-in, and even though there’s been a lot of business cuts, I have always tried to give back to this community,” says Le.

“I love Airdrie. It’s the people in this community that have grown my business and grown my family. The best way to give thanks is to give back.”

““I love Airdrie. It’s the people in this community that have grown my business and grown my family. The best way to give thanks is to give back.”

HIEN LE

MCKEE HOMES AMAZING MENTOR

For CHRISTINE MCLEOD, all you really need is a good mindset and fitness.

It’s why throughout the pandemic McLeod has been encouraging others to stay positive and keep going.

“You can’t control your outside world and what is going on in your situation around you, but you can control your attitude and your outlook on life,” says McLeod.

“A lot of that comes from working out.”

McLeod has spent more than 20 years coaching people on healthy living through mentoring clients both physically and mentally. In 2013, she opened Tri Fit Training to continue that work in Airdrie.

Nominators Ray Luu and Niki Middleton have seen firsthand the impact McLeod has had. As clients of Tri Fit, they say her leadership has not only changed their bodies but their outlook on situations in times of difficulty.

“Christine has been gifted the ability to connect with people of all ages and lifestyles,” says Middleton.

“She has been my amazing personal trainer and mentor for over 10 years, not only showing strength of juggling a successful business, marriage and two children, but surviving mentally, physically and professionally during the pandemic,” says Luu.

DEANNA VEZINA believes when it comes to fitness, you need to meet people where they’re at.

As the owner of Flex Fitness, Vezina says there is a lot of pressure when it comes to working out.

“Everyone needs different support. It’s about being there for people when they need me, so I can really be of benefit and bring positive things into their lives”, says Vezina.

“People have to be ready to make a change, and I support them no matter where they are in their fitness journey.”

Vezina started the virtual group fitness platform during the pandemic to bring women together and have fun despite the restrictions in place. “

Flex Fitness is all about empowering women through fitness and community. “It’s so much more than just a workout.”

Lynette Bartlett says although Vezina is always sharing and supporting other local businesses, her support really shines through to the women in her classes.

“Holding online social events, a weekly fitness class schedule, monthly challenges, and fundraisers to keep her community tied together and supporting each other.… She’s continually supporting and welcoming all and any women,” says Bartlett.

“Her drive does not go unnoticed, and her passion shines through.”

You can count on leaving DEBBIE MILLER’s office with a smile on your face.

Miller says her job as branch manager at Andrew Agencies is not the most glamorous, but it’s very rewarding.

“Insurance itself is one of those necessary evils. Everybody has to have it. So I try to make it a positive experience for our clients and staff.”

Miller got her start in the industry in the 1980s as an underwriter before taking the leap in 1994 to become a broker. She credits her predecessor, Ken McCracken, for keeping a positive attitude. He used to tell jokes to help lighten the mood.

“I’m not a jokester but I do enjoy helping people. If people are frustrated you just have to try and help them out the best you can. I try to pass that on to the staff here,” says Miller.

Nominator Jackie Jukich has been working with Miller since 2019. She says Miller’s mentorship has been key to her success.

“I am so extremely honoured for the first time in my career as a broker to have met such a compassionate leader and mentor. She is everything that honesty and integrity comes from,” says Jukich.

Every child is a blank slate for ELISSA BREAKENRIDGE

An early childhood educator, Breakenridge says watching children be excited to learn about the world around them is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.

“Just being able to watch these children interact with the learning activities we provide them makes what I do so worthwhile,” says Breakenridge.

“When I see them concentrating so hard on something you can see how they are developing right there in that moment.”

Breakenridge also passionately believes that parenting should not be done in isolation.

CHRISTINE MCLEOD

DEANNA VEZINA

DEBBIE MILLER

ELISSA BREAKENRIDGE

MCKEE HOMES AMAZING MENTOR

Seeing a need for a place where parents and children can connect, learn and grow together, she opened Ready, Set, Soar! Education Centre in late 2021 to support child development and build social connections.

It stemmed from her 17 years working in the Family Resource department at Community Links.

Alisha MacIsaac, who nominated Breakenridge after working together at Community Links, says her leadership is unparalleled.

“I have never worked with someone so supportive, skilled and encouraging in a leadership role. She pushed me to excel, had my back personally and professionally as I grew and changed within my role, and was always there to lend an understanding ear,” says MacIsaac.

All HEATHER HARKE requests is a simple cup of coffee. Then, she’ll sit down and give you years of experience working as an entrepreneur in Airdrie.

“I have always been compelled in my life to give up my time, my knowledge and my resources,” says Harke.

As the owner of Shoplift Deals, Harke offers up her business as a place for local businesses to sell and expose their products. Especially for indigenous artists and creators.

Her passion for mentorship stems from her work with many organizations in Airdrie. She mentors local entrepreneurs for SMARTstart and is a member of the Airdrie 1st Club.

“I am grateful every day I am in a position where I can help others. I don’t take that lightly. It’s about who is in your community that can support you.”

Nominator Sarah Courneya says Harke’s mentorship was a game changer for her business. She says Harke works tirelessly to ensure entrepreneurs have the best foundation to move forward in a successful business.

“Heather is one of the ones who truly wants everyone to succeed and believes there’s enough for everyone.”

MICHELE TREMBLAY has spent the majority of her life teaching others the beauty of the French language.

She has been a French immersion teacher for the Calgary Catholic School Board since 1989, deciding to retire at the end of the 2021-2022 school year.

“We are in a bilingual country, so everybody should make it their business to be able to communicate in both languages,” says Tremblay.

“I think we should all be investigating our roots and looking into the French and English sides of ourselves, and looking into the Indigenous languages of the land we’re on. It will help us understand each other better and connect with each other.”

Tremblay says she will continue tutoring, and will be creating, editing and translating French language materials specifically for young women.

Nominator Emma Work says Tremblay’s mentorship inspired her to pursue a degree in French education to give others the same unforgettable experience she received.

“She works tirelessly to instill passion, recognize the efforts of her students, encourage them, and serve as a pillar of support,” says Work.

“She created a culturally enriching experience for all of her French immersion students and inspired countless students to develop a love for French.”

STEPHANIE DE SOUZA wants youth to know they can do anything if they set their minds to it.

As a Girl Guides member and leader for more than 20 years, de Souza has helped teens to develop their skills and self-esteem so they can tackle moving past high school.

“I have all these kids who I have helped over the years, and you see them as adults out there in the world. I helped them with references, get jobs, fill out college applications,” says de Souza.

“It is so rewarding to see them moving forward in their lives and that I was able to help give them the opportunity to do that.”

She runs the Ranger Unit for young adults aged 1418, as well as the Lones program for teens unable to attend regular meetings due to health or long-distance reasons.

Working on the programs, de Souza sets aside anything from 10-15 hours a week.

“Being a mentor means I am there for someone when they need me; I’m there to help guide and nudge, not tell them what to do,” says de Souza.

“To help point them in the right direction or just be a listening ear.”

HARKE

MICHELE TREMBLAY

STEPHANIE DE SOUZA

AMANDA VAN DER LINDEN

ALLY GREENTREE

PHARMASAVE ON CENTRE AMAZING HEART

ALLY GREENTREE will greet you with a warm smile and a hug.

As the owner of several small businesses in Airdrie, Greentree knows exactly what it takes to build something from scratch.

In 2014 Greentree reinvented a tradeshow geared towards new and expectant mothers. When that sold, she partnered with the same friend to create Spark & Bloom Co. and developed a yoga program for kids called Wild Mind Kids Yoga; her mission statement is “to be the person I needed when I was younger.”

With more than nine years as an entrepreneur, Greentree loves to focus on supporting the local community.

“Everything that I do is from my heart. I am very much an empath so I’m always thinking how I can impact people especially here in our city.”

Nominator Lynette Bartlett says Greentree’s work to create a community of strong women while boosting local business is inspiring.

“Our very own ‘Support Local’ advocate, with an infectious smile, and a generous heart … she is continually shouting out her peers’ businesses, donating and giving back to the community. A heart of gold, with a side of sass. That’s Ally.””

AMANDA VAN DER LINDEN believes giving time to local organizations will help children grow into the best versions of themselves.

Otherwise, those programs won’t exist.

“My children wouldn’t learn important social skills if not for some of the organizations that exist in our community,” she says.

“I want to help support those as best as I can, not just for my girls but other children as well.”

Van der Linden is an active volunteer with the Girl Guides of Canada. She helps with the local Brownie unit, and assists with events for the organization. She also volunteers and sits on the board of Fuzzy Pickles Preschool.

Perhaps one of her most rewarding jobs, though, is taking care of her aunt with special needs.

“I see the smiles on my girls’ faces, and my aunt’s, when they are participating in certain activities. That’s what brings me joy in life.”

“Amanda is one of the most exceptional women I know,” says nominator Denise Cruz.

“She does all of these things tirelessly, with caring, love and much cost to her own time,” says Cruz.

“I feel lucky to know and work alongside her.”

ASHTON BENNETT wants new and expectant mothers to never feel like they are alone.

As a maternity and newborn photographer, Bennett says supporting women through their journey with children is personal.

“When I had my second daughter, I got really bad postpartum depression. It completely changed the course of my life,” says Bennett.

“Not only did I have to get through it, but I still live with it in ways that have affected my life with trauma and a little bit of PTSD. I have had two of my own losses as well. So this has all enveloped my whole life in good ways and bad.”

Bennett volunteers with the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Centre in Calgary. There, she works on the crisis line offering support to those experiencing loss, trauma, depression from pregnancy and infant loss.

She is also currently working towards her goal of becoming a social worker specializing in mental health for perinatal and postpartum mood disorders at Mount Royal University.

Nominator Sarah Courneya says Bennett actively works to help everyone with whom she crosses paths.

“She is so passionate about pregnancy and post-pregnancy issues and has helped countless people through difficult times,” says Courneya.

ASHTON BENNETT

BRANDEE SCARROTT

PHARMASAVE ON CENTRE AMAZING HEART

When AVA REGIER tore her ACL, she thought her dreams of playing professional basketball were over.

The Grade 12 student at George McDougall turned her attention to coaching while she recovered — a nearly year-long process. She found comfort in still having a connection to the sport she loves.

“I was playing the best basketball of my life and then this happened, so it’s been an emotional roller-coaster, but I think it’s mentally making me stronger,” Regier says.

“I think watching basketball and sharing my knowledge of what I know has really helped me stay motivated for how I can be when I recover.”

Regier had been playing basketball for seven years before her injury. She hopes to recover by September, in time for the next season at the post-secondary level.

Basketball coach and nominator Jessica Bower says Regier is a natural leader amongst her peers.

“All of her accolades are important but pale in comparison to how she has risen above her current situation.… A lesser person would have let it take her down,” says Bower.

“She is using her basketball knowledge and leadership skills to better her team. She has been integral to our team’s positive attitude.”

Compassion comes first for BRANDEE SCARROTT when life’s curveballs are thrown her way.

For the past several years, Scarrott has been unwavering in her commitment to serve the community in any way possible.

“Growing up we didn’t have a lot and we didn’t always have the resources or knew about the resources that were out there for us. So as I got older, I wanted to feel connected to my community.”

Volunteering her time to collect food and toys for various organizations in Airdrie, Scarrott went a step further and joined the Airdrie 1st Club (formerly know as Airdrie Lioness). Eventually, she would become president.

Under her guise, Scarrott developed programs for food drives and created hampers for more than 300 families in Airdrie. When the pandemic hit, she worked into the wee hours of the morning making sure families in need didn’t go without, all while running a day home, schooling her children and taking care of her family.

Nominator Donelda Johnson says Scarrott has always been the first to volunteer for local causes. Feeling the call to serve the people living in it.

“All of this with a smile on her face, a joke, a laugh,” says Johnson.

MACPHAIL is in the business of making memories sweet.

Since opening Chelsea’s Custom Cakes, MacPhail has spent countless hours piping buttercream and shaping fondant.

It’s donating angel cakes to grieving families, though, that she’s most proud of.

“It’s hard to think about being in a position where you have a birthday for a child that is no longer here,” says MacPhail.

“Gifting them a cake how they want it, how they think their child would have wanted it and seeing them smile is such an important thing to me.”

Nominators Jenna Wallace and Sarah Courneya say MacPhail’s commitment to helping local families goes beyond the kitchen. She’s contributed both time and funds to health organizations and programs, addictions groups and women’s shelters.

When one of her children was diagnosed with celiac disease, MacPhail was determined to improve lives impacted by it. She converted her home kitchen to a gluten-free work area and reserved the commercial kitchen for other work.

“Chelsea worked and worked to improve upon her home-based business and grow it…. Her determination to improve upon things rather than wallow constantly amazes me,” says Courneya.

“Being a one-woman show is a testament to how big her heart really is,” says Wallace.

CHESLEA MACPHAIL

AVA REGIER

CHELSEA

HEATHER COWIE HOLLY SHEPHERD

DR. HEATHER COWIE wants to use her skills as an optometrist and as a community leader to help those in need.

Her passion for eye care started during a volunteer trip to Guatemala, where she put a pair of glasses on a man who said he was blind.

“...and he could see. He just needed a pair of glasses. I changed his life at that moment,” says Cowie.

“I thought, ‘Look what I can do. If I can keep doing this over and over for people, this is what a happy, successful life will look like.’”

Since then, Cowie has travelled to Nicaragua, Mexico, Jamaica and El Salvador providing eye care for those in need.

She’s also the owner of Airdrie Family Eye Doctors.

Nominator Amy Murray says Cowie is selfless, and determined to make the world a better place

“Heather wakes up, ready to change the world and spread kindness,” says Murray.

“(She) is a philanthropist, a people-person, but most importantly she genuinely cares about every person she comes across.”

Cowie is currently developing an international charity to provide eye care to those in impoverished countries and is dedicated to creating support systems that empower women and educate girls.

HEATHER SPEARMAN knows everyone is fighting some kind of battle.

It’s something she knows well, personally.

After being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease when she was 20 years old, doctors discovered Spearman also had a rare, incurable liver disease.

“When it comes to being sick, you don’t know how much time you have left. It just motivates you to do even more for the people around you and even more for the people in your community,” says Spearman.

“If you are somebody who has had an uphill battle, then I am going to make it my life’s work to fight for you.”

Since her diagnosis, Spearman has been involved in helping LGBTQ+ and Indigenous communities, addiction awareness organizations and helping more women get involved in politics. In 2021, Spearman was elected to Airdrie City Council for the first time.

Nominator Sarah Courneya worked with Spearman during the campaign and saw the impact she wanted to make on Airdrie.

“Her priority was, and always has been, ensuring everyone is informed to make the best decision for the city,” says Courneya.

“If ever there was someone I’d want advocating for me as a woman, a mother, an entrepreneur — it would be her.”

HOLLY SHEPHERD’S roots run deep in Airdrie.

Her family has ties to the community since the 1960s. So, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, she started thinking of ways to continue fostering a sense of community while bolstering local businesses.

“People weren’t travelling so we had this big space that was going unused. We ended up closing down our dog kennel and building a farmers market,” says Shepherd.

Since then, Homestead Market has become a staple in Airdrie, bringing together local makers, bakers and growers to sell their creations.

“We ended up creating a great place for families to be able to come and enjoy together. Covid has changed our business but it has definitely made it better.”

Along with her family, Shepherd also runs Peony and Pine Photography Landscapes and Play Unleashed, a private off-leash dog park.

Her husband, Cody Shepherd, says he nominated his wife because of her commitment to family, business and community.

“[Holly] is second to none for how hard she works to make everything around her a better place, not just for herself, but for the community as a whole.”

HEATHER SPEARMAN

LISA WHYNOTT

LISA WHYNOTT believes in paying it forward.

This past year brought many challenges for Whynott. She worked hard to keep her business afloat in a pandemic, while taking care of her husband and father both suffering with health issues.

“If you give good karma, you get good karma back,” says Whynott.

“There’s been times when I’ve been on my knees these past 12 months. You have to keep a positive mental attitude and have good people around you to get through.”

As the owner of Everlasting Impressions, Whynott helps engaged couples plan their dream wedding. When the pandemic started, she partnered with other vendors in the wedding industry to create The Wedding Experts. The idea was to give free advice to couples in COVID.

“How to postpone a wedding, how to do micro-weddings or any type of advice.… Just to try and navigate the difficult times and give them support,” says Whynott.

She also donates wedding decor to couples in need through a ‘pay it forward’ campaign.

Nominator and friend Leslie Durand says Whynott is a role model for those in the wedding industry.

“She is one of the strongest and most loving people I have ever known,” says Durand.

PHARMASAVE ON CENTRE AMAZING HEART

LYNETTE BARTLETT has made it her mission to encourage women to see for themselves how special, heard and seen they are.

It’s why Bartlett began teaching trauma-sensitive yoga classes in Airdrie years ago.

“Bit by bit after encouraging women, soon they start to believe it. They become this version of themselves that perhaps they had never been and once they do they become true to themselves,” says Bartlett.

“It is such a pleasure to see that change and that revelation. When they become that person it is like you are meeting them for the first time as their true selves and it is really wonderful.”

In late 2021, Bartlett shaved her head to raise money for a friend’s daughter diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia. She ended up raising more than $8,000 for the then three-year-old and her family.

Nominator Deanna Vezina says Bartlett has a huge heart for giving back.

“Lynette is one of the most inspirational women I know.… She has provided wonderful opportunities for these women to grow and be the best versions of themselves all while continuing to do the same for herself.”

For SARIKA MEHTA, giving time to others is what she was raised to do.

The former makeup artist started volunteering when she was 14 years old. Since then, she’s given countless hours of her time supporting various food banks and this will be the fifth year she has made boxes full of gifts to hand out to women on Mother’s Day.

“My dad taught me one thing: God will always give you more if you share,” says Mehta.

“We only need enough to live. If you have more, always share that. Sharing is not always money.”

In her home country of India, Mehta is currently sponsoring the education for 10 children while supporting three grandparents. She has also developed a campaign in both India and Canada to raise money, make meals and give food to those who can’t afford it.

In 2021, Mehta travelled to the Dominican Republic for two months raising funds for sick children through cooking and selling meals.

“Sarika is always the first person I know who is there to help someone.... She has a heart of gold, and I would love to be able to give back to her the way she gives to everyone else,” says nominator Malissa Hayes.

LYNETTE BARTLETT

SARIKA MEHTA

PINK WAND AMAZING WORKPLACE

The AIRDRIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE works hard to support local women in business.

And they start right in their very own office.

As a team of four women, executive director Marilyne Aalhus says they genuinely care for one another.

“Our work environment supports the working mom and even grandma who needs to juggle a work-life balance,” says Aalhus.

“We provide flexibility and support for one another and for the many female members that we work with every day.”

The Airdrie Chamber hosts an annual Rural Women in Business Conference in partnership with the Crossfield Chamber. Last year, more than 150 women came together to learn, motivate and champion one another.

They also host a variety of workshops and events throughout the year to showcase the strength of women in business.

In 2022, they have plans to create a family-friendly event based on feedback from mothers where families can get together to network in the community.

“Not only do we have a strong staff of women in business; we also have an amazing board president and several female directors that are leaders in our community,” says Aalhus.

“We value all our members and are extremely grateful for the guidance of our female leaders and members.”

LIL BETTAS SWIM SCHOOL

The owner of LIL BETTAS SWIM SCHOOL believes women have the right to education and fair pay.

That’s why Nikaela Lutzer works around her employees to find the perfect work-life balance.

“We value women, due to their exceptional ability to be multifaceted,” says Lutzer.

“Women in our community are raising the next generation while taking on the responsibilities of shaping our community … By maintaining full respect and admiration for our women, we empower them to be better.”

Lutzer started teaching swimming lessons in her backyard swim spa in 2021. Now, Lutzer runs her business out of multiple hotel pools teaching more than 3,500 children with 35 staff, 30 of whom are women.

Scholarship programs at the school also give opportunities for children in need to learn the life-saving skills swimming lessons provide.

Tiffany Baratta has been with Lil Bettas since the beginning. She says Lil Bettas is a great place to work because it fosters an environment for success.

“As a female-dominated workplace, every person is treated with equality and respect,” says Baratta.

“Lil Bettas employs a number of students and mothers and provides a way for these women to provide a better life for themselves and their families.”

AIRDRIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Marilyne Aalhus

Nikaela Lutzer

AMBER WARD (KAKAKAWAY)

AMBER WARD (KAKAKAWAY) has spent the last few years working to reclaim her identity as an Indigenous woman from White Bear First Nation.

Her inherent right to her culture, community and family was stolen as the result of inter generational trauma from residential schools and broken systems. Witnessing glimpses of culture in people and seeing the beauty of what she had missed out on, she knew it was time to reconnect.

“The steps I am taking hopefully make a safer way, a safer environment, a safer world for the next generation. Even if it is just my kids,” says Ward.

“It’s okay to be loud and proud and say things when they need to be said.”

In 2021, Ward organized several peaceful demonstrations. She created a memorial outside Airdrie City Hall honouring survivors from Cowessess residential school. She also co-hosted the first Day of Truth and Reconciliation Ceremony, and coordinated the orange footprint pathway at Nose Creek Park.

Currently, Ward is working on a permanent memorial at City Hall.

Nominator Sue Methuen has worked with Ward on various Indigenous-led endeavours in Airdrie.

“She has found the strength and courage from her ancestors to do this work and share it with her children,” says Methuen.

In AMY KATHERINE’s viewfinder, everyone is worthy of having beautiful photos of themselves.

It’s why Katherine describes herself as an empowerment photographer. Seeking to create a positive experience for people no matter what body type, size or personal history.

“We live in a world where everything is fake. You’re not seeing someone struggling with their day. You’re seeing their beautiful cafe mocha topped with whip cream and chocolate,” says Katherine.

“It takes courage to show up as you are and tell your story authentically. I try to do that by helping those embrace challenges they’ve had and challenging their self-perceived and societal-perceived flaws.”

In 2021 Katherine created The Body Love Evolution online as a way to bring women, female-identifying and nonbinary people together. It’s an intimate space where people can ask questions, look for support or share good news.

Group member and nominator Sarah Courneya says Katherine’s ability to stand for what she believes in is inspiring.

“She actively dismantles stereotypes even at the risk of losing clients and promotes love and beauty for everyone.... Her work is absolutely breathtaking because it gives a glimpse into how she sees everyone through a kind and beautiful lens.”

AMY KATHERINE

CHRISTINE ALLO

A longtime family friend had given birth to a baby boy, but her kidneys had been failing ever since. She desperately needed a transplant.

“I am a single mom with three kids, and she has one now. Imagine if he lost his mom. It tore me up,” says Allo.

“I couldn’t imagine what that felt like to be so sick and desperately need something that can only come from a human body.”

After a series of tests, the pair discovered they were a perfect match on World Kidney Day.

Allo flew to her hometown of Montreal to have the surgery.

“There was no guarantee how it would go. If the kidney wouldn’t take or what if mine started to fail after the surgery? I had a very strong feeling it would go well so I just told myself everything was going to be fine.”

The kidney immediately started working, and 24 hours later the creatinine levels in her friend’s body returned to normal.

Allo recovered quicky without complications and says she is living a “perfectly normal and healthy life with one kidney.”

Nominator Elizabeth Devens says, “I definitely believe she is one of the most courageous, selfless women I have met.”

HARRIS

JENNIFER BERG is passionate about families and their well-being.

It’s why she helped found Ready Set Soar! Education Centre in late 2021 to support parents and help children grow into the best versions of themselves.

“Children are the most amazing, wonderful little creatures. We are blessed to be in their presence because they are honest and wholesome. They love with their full heart, and they dislike with their full heart,” says Berg.

“Knowing that I am having a direct impact on families in the community is huge. It makes me feel really good about what I am doing.”

Berg has spent more than 15 years working in early childhood development. Starting as a day home operator, then working as a parent mentor for Community Links.

She began volunteering with local sporting groups after seeing the positive impact it had on her own children. After 10 years, she became president of the Rockyview Lacrosse Association.

Nominator Alisha MacIsaac has worked alongside Berg for years. She says Berg is an inspiration as both a mother and a colleague, and knows her work in education is an asset to the community.

“Her courage inspires me to take risks, put myself out there, and see how far I can go.”

ROBERTA HARRIS wants people to know you can still have a life after facing trauma.

When she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016, the now-retired school secretary at George McDougall High School continued working.

“It was tough, but I wanted to work. I didn’t want to stay home feeling sorry for myself,” says Harris.

“I’m not going to lie, I had a couple of naps in the school infirmary, but it was good to keep my mind off things.”

After 14 months of treatment, Harris made a full recovery in 2017. Later that year, however, her husband woke up unable to move.

Doctors discovered he had an infection in his spine, and a hole in the back of his throat. He spent months in ICU, eventually leaving him a quadriplegic.

“Life doesn’t really stop just because something bad happens, you have to keep going. So, I make sure we get out of the house and take a breath of fresh air,” says Harris.

“She is never one to complain but life has given her more than her share of challenges. I can’t think of a woman with a more courageous heart,” says nominator Kerri King.

CHRISTINE ALLO donated one of her kidneys to save another woman’s life.

ROBERTA

JENNIFER BERG

SUPERIOR HEARING AMAZING PROMISE

AERIN BELL wants to help people express themselves through art.

After graduation, the Grade 12 student at George McDougall High School has dreams of travelling to less fortunate countries to open art therapy centres.

“I want to give people who normally don’t have the chance to go to regular therapy the chance to convey themselves through art and media,” Bell says, “as a way to help them recover through traumatic experiences or to help them sort of figure out what they are feeling.”

Bell works mainly with mixed media forms of art, using her experience with mental health and past experiences as inspiration. She also volunteers with her school’s Gay-Straight Alliance club to help create a school culture that is inclusive and safe.

Marda Wright has taught Bell art since she was a 14-yearold, and is also the art teacher at George McDougall.

“Aerin has proven to be one of the most creative and innovative artists I have encountered. She is also an exceptionally

engaging, interesting and warm person with tremendous depth of character and integrity,” says Wright.

“Aerin’s passion for art motivates and inspires other students to strengthen their skills and ideas.”

Giving youth in Airdrie a seat at the table is what CYDNEY BRADBURY feels passionate about.

The Grade 10 student at George McDougall High School volunteers with the Airdrie Board of Youth Affairs. There, she works to educate and empower youth in the community through partnering with Airdrie City Council and various non-profit organizations.

More recently, her work has focused on helping newcomers get situated, educating on drug use and working with the City for better transportation to post-secondary institutions.

“Youth are going to be our future one day, and they need to know what is going on now so they can fix it or create connections,” says Bradbury.

“It’s important they learn these skills now, so when it comes time for us to grow and be a part of our community, we know what is going on and we know which areas need our support the most.”

Nominators Erin Duggan and Danielle Wyman say Bradbury is one of their strongest students.

“She volunteers, has a paper route, is a beekeeper, participates in public speaking competitions, and has real old-school pen pals from all over the world. She is a pretty cool kid,” says Wyman.

IFE OWOJORI has dreams to create a group for young women interested in science and technology.

The Grade 12 student at St. Martin de Porres High School says it stems from her wish to become a physician, and her interest in biochemistry.

“I have always been interested in science, since I was young. I always felt like that was where I was going to work,” says Owojori.

“I feel like I have always been called to help people, especially the homeless.”

Owojori volunteers with the Centre Street Church Airdrie campus helping preschool and elementary aged children with activities. Along with members of the Church, she helped organize handing out warm meals and hot chocolate to homeless people in downtown Calgary.

When the Leftovers Foundation expanded to Airdrie, Owojori also helped deliver food to homeless shelters.

“When I started volunteering about five years ago, it was just something that made me feel more involved in the community and it is just honestly fun for me,” says Owojori.

“Now I feel that it is important because you learn a lot about the people who live in your community and the different experiences they have.”

JACQUELINE VINCENT has always been curious about how the world works.

The Grade 12 student at George McDougall High School says she has always asked questions and wanted to know why something works the way it does.

JAQUELINE VINCENT

AERIN BELL

CYDNEY BRADBURY

IFE OWOJORI

KATHERINE LABRECHE

“I find it so fascinating when you can figure tough things out,” says Vincent.

“I want to be making discoveries that will help other people. So, I hope to become a researcher. I think looking at things under a microscope, looking at data and trying new things that no one else has ever tried is really cool.”

This past summer Vincent was one of 39 participants in the Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science & Technology (WISEST) summer research program at the University of Alberta. She reviewed an article on viral nucleosomes and published a summary of findings while there.

Vincent plans to continue her studies through a Biochemistry Bachelor of Science Honours Degree program at the U of A.

Nominator Erin Duggan is a counsellor at George McDougall. She says Vincent is a gifted student.

“She is one of our brightest students, earning top grades in all of her classes.”

KATHERINE LABRECHE wants a hand in solving some of the world’s biggest problems.

The Grade 12 St. Martin de Porres student says she wants to make an impact on the world we live on.

“I am looking at the world and thinking ‘How can I make this better?’ or ‘What problems need to be figured out?’” says Labreche.

“From there it’s deciding what’s the best course of action.”

In 2021, Labreche was accepted into a summer research program at the University of Alberta. While

MORGAN SORSDAHL

there, she worked in land reclamation returning disturbed land back to a functioning ecosystem.

That experience inspired her to pursue a future in STEM. She’s applied to various post-secondary institutions for engineering, eventually hoping to complete a PhD or master’s program.

Nominator Michaela Hashiguchi is the principal at St. Martin de Porres. She says Katherine is a student that has worked hard and is always first to help.

“She is polite, respectful and is always reflecting on what areas she could improve on. Katherine is willing to help out in any capacity and does it with a smile on her face.”

When MORGAN SORSDAHL was little, she was inspired by those older than her to try new things and do some good.

Now, the Grade 12 student at Bert Church High School hopes to bring some of that same energy to those younger than her.

“I looked up to these people who were encouraging me to meet new people, talk to new people and help those people,” says Sorsdahl.

“That’s what I’m trying to do now. Inspire kids here to try and do better.”

Sorsdahl volunteers for the Bert Church Chargers football team as a manager and trainer. She also works at Genesis Place as a recreational leader for youth.

In 2020, Sorsdahl wrapped up her taekwondo training after more than 10 years when she achieved her black belt certification. While there, she also helped train kids on technique and form.

Nominator Mitchell Bates volunteers with Sorsdahl for the Chargers and is also her social studies teacher.

“Throughout her education, she has also participated in several service-learning opportunities aimed at sup-

VARSHA RAAJESH

porting communities in the developing world,” says Bates. “The skills, compassion, work ethic and empathy that Morgan displays are foundational attributes that will result in her continuing to demonstrate great promise in Airdrie.”

VARSHA RAAJESH wants to make a difference in the world.

The Grade 12 student at George McDougall High School is working her way towards becoming a doctor.

“I believe my main purpose in this world is to make a significant difference. I think being a doctor and the whole healthcare field interests me – especially right now,” Raajesh says.

“I also want to be known as a person in people’s lives who is empowering and someone they can come to and feel included around.”

In 2021, Raajesh was elected student body president with a focus on improving school culture. Her goal was to create an environment filled with positivity and empowerment –especially since the pandemic forced classrooms online for weeks at a time.

Raajesh spent 11 years training as a concert pianist. She previously volunteered for the Calgary Drop-In Centre and is currently a scorekeeper for various sports teams.

Nominator and sports medicine teacher Tim Masse says Raajesh is an amazing young woman with a promising future.

“She is outgoing and personable. Her academics are a top priority because she has very ambitious plans for her future,” says Masse.

“She has big plans and big dreams and I am confident she will achieve them.”

VITREOUS AMAZING CULTURAL AMBASSADOR

AMANDA TOZSER is giving her time and talents to help emerging artists in Airdrie.

She has volunteered with Rocky View Schools doing demos in theatrical makeup for local middle and high schools.

As well, she has worked with organizations such as The Airdrie Health Foundation, Airdrie Public Library, Boys and Girls Club of Airdrie and many more. “I love to support the community, especially youth, wherever I can,” says Tozser.

“Giving your time is the best way to give back. To maybe use my skills to inspire some of the kids in school I think might help open their eyes to all the different avenues that they can pursue in life.”

In the last year, Tozser has been working in the film industry as a makeup artist. While there, she’s been encouraging her colleagues to also give back to the community through donations or mentorship.

Nominator and friend Joannah Pruden has known Tozser for 14 years.

“Amanda gives so much of herself to our community and more often than not it’s all via volunteer work,” says Pruden.

“She has a beautiful heart and loves to share her talents with the smaller members of our community as well as the adults.”

KIM CHEEL believes arts and culture are the soul of a community.

That’s why she’s worked tirelessly for years to advocate for them in Airdrie.

Cheel has sat on the boards of many major cultural movements, such as the Airdrie Film Festival, Airdrie Pride Society, ARTember, Indigenous Month, Black History Month and Alberta Culture Days.

This past year, Cheel helped launch Airdrie Reads to promote literacy in the community and put a spotlight on Albertan authors.

“Reading and writing is a powerful way to find freedom, healing and yourself,” says Cheel.

“That’s also the case with arts and culture itself. It brings everyone together and is an escape to everything going on. It gives that connection that we all crave.”

Cheel even created Airdrie’s Ghost Walk to share stories of those who helped make Airdrie what it is today. She also shares her acting chops with youth while running drama classes.

Nominator Tammy Plunkett works with Cheel on launching new books into the community with Airdrie’s up-and-coming writers. She says Cheel plays an instrumental role in the community.

“Cheel is a spectacular cultural asset in Airdrie,” says Plunkett.

SUSAN LAING has been teaching youth the confidence to express themselves fully for 30 years in Airdrie.

The founder of Airdrie Dance Academy estimates she has taught more than 10,000 students since her studio opened.

“Our studio is multigenerational,” she says.

“I taught kids and now I am teaching their kids. The fact is dance is a gift of life. If you’re happy, you dance. It brings people together.”

She says despite the many changes she has seen the city go through over the years, parents continue to remain dedicated to supporting their children’s activities.

“For that support, of my business, my passion and my values, I am forever grateful.”

Mackenzie Cox has been Laing’s assistant for six years and a student ever since she was four years old. She says Laing doesn’t just teach her students how to dance.

“Not only has she been an incredible dance teacher, she has been a best friend, support system and even in some ways a second mom to me and a lot of her dancers,” says Cox, winner of the 2020 Amazing Airdrie Women Promise Award.

“She goes above and beyond for all of her students and makes sure every student feels safe, validated and confident in themselves.”

AMANDA TOZSER

SUSAN LAING

KIM CHEEL