FineLifestyles Southwest Saskatchewan Fall 2012 by Fine

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1

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MAYOR JERROD SCHAFER AND KELLY WOOD A SCOTTISH-PRAIRIE CONNECTION SHOPPING FOR YOUR SHAPE WINDSCAPE KITE FESTIVAL CONTRACTOR REFERRALS

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Office of the Mayor PO Box 340 • 177 1st Ave N.E. Swift Current, Saskatchewan S9H 3W1 • Phone: 306-778-2777 • admin@swiftcurrent.ca

Welcome Message Swift Current is a growing, vital and thriving community in the heart of the Southwest; the choice location in which to live, work, invest, visit and play. Swift Current provides residents with a safe, healthy and happy place to live and work. It provides a sense of belonging and enriches lives. It’s where life makes sense. The City of Swift Current is making our community and region a great place to live now, and a better place to live tomorrow. Our community is thrilled to welcome Fine Lifestyles to Swift Current and the Southwest, and wishes all the best in your new venture in our city and region. MAYOR JERROD SCHAFER City of Swift Current

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FineLifestyles Fall 2012

WITH FINELIFESTYLES EDITOR SHERRY LEE

VOLUME 1 ISSUE I

elcome to the first issue of Fine Lifestyles Southwest Sask! We are excited to bring you this new magazine that profiles the best in lifestyles of Southwest Saskatchewan. Like other communities and regions in our great and growing province, the Southwest has a unique and appealing culture, with many interesting and accomplished people, events, businesses, organizations and services.

www.finelifestyles.ca Associate Editor Sherry Lee sherryl@finelifestyles.ca

Staff Writers Ashleigh Mattern ashleighm@finelifestyles.ca Nykea Marie Behiel nykea@finelifestyles.ca Shawna Common shawnac@finelifestyles.ca

Graphic Design and Layout Annalisa Raho annalisa@finelifestyles.ca

In-house Design Amber Moon amber@finelifestyles.ca Deanne Bell deanneb@finelifestyles.ca

Cover Photography

Our goal is to provide an engaging mix of topics that cover style, health and wellness, arts and entertainment, sports and recreation, house and homes, business and wheels, while keeping the focus on what the Southwest region has to offer.

Carla Rokochy

Photography Corla Rokochy www.photography.com Krista Erickson www.swiftcurrentweddingphotography.com Mindy McGregor www.redbubble.com/people/mindym306

In this issue, you will see many local businesses and organizations profiling their products, programs and services; you will learn more about them, and what they have to offer you to enhance your lifestyle. We hope you enjoy our editorials; there was no shortage of options for local stories, and we look forward to uncovering many more. You will read about the strength of local bodybuilder, Lyris Capelle; the background and success of the recently-filmed local movie, Zombageddon; the return of hockey legend, Mark Lamb, to coach the Swift Current Broncos; the beauty and growing popularity of the annual Windscape Kite Festival; and the intriguing tale of the Schultz brothers racing family. Our cover features Swift Current Mayor, Jerrod Schafer and his partner, Kelly Wood, and the delightful story of their unlikely meeting and their life together now. As the leaves turn colour and we enter this beautiful autumn season, the fall fashion lines have emerged, and our minds turn to refreshing or revamping our wardrobe for fall and winter. Renowned Saskatchewan fashion designer, Dean Renwick, provides helpful pointers on shopping for your shape; I know I will use them. Keep this magazine on your coffee table, sit down with it often, and enjoy everything that it has to offer.

Contributing Writers Gail Jansen-Kesslar www.gailforcewriting.com Tobie Hainstock thainstock@hotmail.com

Advertising Consultants John Potter johnp@finelifestyles.ca

Creative Director Maryann Yeomans maryann@finelifestyles.ca

Publisher Wayne Unruh 541.3365 wayne@finelifestyles.ca 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, Sk. S4V 2S4

Fine Lifestyles Southwest Sask. is published four times a year by Fine Lifestyles Regina Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or advertisement. All contents of Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd., publications are copyrighted 2012 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to Fine Lifestyles Southwest Sask., where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Fine Lifestyles Regina Ltd. or its writers. The name Fine Lifestyles Southwest Sask., its logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Lifestyles Regina Ltd. or the companies it represents. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

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Linda Adams Mobile Mortgage Specialist 306-774-4771 linda.adams@rbc.com

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Your new home doesn’t come with mortgage advice. I do. All personal lending products and residential mortgages are offered by Royal Bank of Canada and are subject to its standardLinda lending criteria. ® Registered trademarks Adams of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and RoyalMobile Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Mortgage Specialist 45808 (08/2010) Bank of Canada. TM Trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. 306-774-4771 linda.adams@rbc.com

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All personal lending products and residential mortgages are offered by Royal Bank All personal lending products and residential mortgages are offered by Royal Bank ® of Canada and are subject toand itsare standard Registered of Canada subject to lending its standardcriteria. lending criteria. Registeredtrademarks trademarks of RoyalRBC Bankand of Canada. and Royal are registered trademarks of of Royal Bank of Canada. RoyalRBCBank areBank registered trademarks ofRoyal Royal 45808 Bank of Canada. Trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. 45808 (08/2010) (08/2010) Bank of Canada. TM Trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. ®

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sInside

42 26 FEATURE STORIES 10 18 26 32 33

Shopping for Your Shape The Strength of Lyris Cappelle Zombageddon Entertainment Calendar COVER: Mayor Jerrod Schafer and Kelly Wood

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36 42 44 64

Mark Lamb: Making It Windscape Kite Festival Shell Busey Schultz Racing Family

44 10

18 DEPARTMENTS 10 18 26 36

Style Health and Wellness Arts, Dining and Entertainment Sports and Recreation

44 56 64

House and Homes Business Wheels

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SHOPPING FOR YOUR

SHAPE BY DEAN RENWICK

veryone loves shopping, but when it comes to actually wearing the clothes you buy, that might be another story altogether. All too often, the clothes that you thought looked good in the store end up hanging in the closet untouched. The best way to prevent this is to know your body shape, and what looks best on you.

The best way to get to know your figure is to stand in front of a mirror and take note of what you see. Are your shoulders as wide, not as wide, or wider than your hips? Is your bust small, medium or full? Look at your waist - is it smaller or the same size as your hips? Are your hips, upper thighs and bottom full and round, or flat and wide? Are your legs slim or shapely? There are four basic figure types: A

pear shape, smaller at the top and wider and flatter at the bottom.

hour glass figure which is smaller at the waist.

inverted pear shape.

rectangular shape.

When shopping for clothes, your goal is to create the longest looking line on your body. You can do this by using shapes and proportions that will visually balance your upper body with your lower body. Be sure to try everything on in-store to avoid having that closet full of clothes that are still donning their price tags.

Style Tips for “A” Figure A’s, be sure to keep your top fitted or tailored to define the shape of your torso. Because you are narrow at the top, you will want to draw the eye upward by adding visual volume to your shoulders and upper torso. Try blouses and tops with epaulettes or pockets (with or without flaps). Also, make it a point to accessorize with a scarf at the neck or chunky necklaces. For this body type, it’s best to wear a straight pant with flat front and straight full leg that falls from the widest part of your bottom. This will take ten pounds off of you instantly. Avoid pleats like the plague!

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When addressing your bottom half, make sure to avoid any smaller patch pockets that are set high on the middle of your butt. Stay away from elaborate stitching, cargo pants or any other ‘bells and whistles’ in the front hip or thigh area. By all means, keep away from any sort of tapered leg, or you’ll end up looking like an ice cream cone. Skirts should be more A-line in structure to draw the eye upward to your tiny waist; they can be stiff or floaty. A - Pear

X - Hour Glass

Style Tips for “X” Figure With an average to full bust, small to average waist, curvy hips and a full round bottom, you will want to make your waist the focal point. Wide or skinny belts work great for this. Avoid fabric that adds bulk, like your husband’s cable knit sweater. Tent-style dresses tend to make you look bigger than you are unless you belt them.

V - Inverted Pear

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H - Rectangle

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Style Tips for “V” Figure Because you are broader at the shoulders than the hips with a medium to full bust and often flat bottom, you are what is also known as an inverted pear. If your bust and torso are full or if you have a short waist, you will want to create a longer looking middle. Think of what a man’s tie does visually - it creates what I call a ‘landing strip’ in the middle of the torso, and tricks the eye into seeing long, tall and sleek. You can achieve the same effect by wearing a jacket or sweater open to reveal a strip of colour underneath. This can also be done by wearing a long necklace with several strands of chains, pearls or whatever. You lucky girl! Your narrow hips allow you to choose from all kinds of trends, patterns and details. When choosing skirts, be sure to pick from tapered to fuller cuts. This will depend on the length and width of your

torso and the fullness of your bust. V’s should avoid any kind of detail that will exaggerate the shoulders such as epaulettes, large pockets, shoulder pads or gathered sleeves; that is unless you are specifically trying to achieve the Roughrider linebacker look!

Style Tips for “H” Figure A typical H figure features a full neck, broad shoulders, average to full bust, full torso, and undefined full waist (often short) with a flat and wide bottom. Your best bet is to top with body skimming, straight shapes to elongate the look of your upper torso. Look for jackets that are fitted with darts and princess seams and feature visual details. Your pants should be straight, and should sit either at your natural waist or an inch or two below. No pleats; wear nothing that is elastic unless it’s only at the back.

Choose from a variety of flowy tops, but then go with a narrow bottom like a pegged-style skirt. You can create length for your neck by wearing V-necks, scoop necks, or even square neck tops. Avoid wide waistbands with gathered fullness or elastic gathered waists. Also stay away from oversized t-shirts and full shirts with dropped shoulder seams.

A Few More Hints Clothes are no longer made with ample seam allowance; they are virtually impossible to let out. When shopping for clothes, buy to fit the biggest part of your body, and tailor down to fit the rest of you. Remember, your tailor is your best friend, and keep him on speed-dial. Watch the trends. Although it may be tempting to run out and buy the latest hot look, not all trends suit all body types. For example, not every body type and every

age should wear a mini skirt. The classics, mixed with one trendy item at a time, are always the best way to go. Keeping your accessories trendy is a very inexpensive and easy way to update your wardrobe. When looking at hem lengths, choose what suits you best. My rule of thumb is that your hem should be at the top of your calf, right below the knee. Hemming in the middle of the calf will just make your legs look like a pair of stove pipes.

Final Thoughts If you are having a hard time deciding what shape you are and what clothes to wear, invest in a stylist, who can help you determine your body type, and pick out the most flattering clothes for you. It is money well invested - no matter what your shape, you can look great. If you know how to dress for your figure type, you will knock ‘em dead wherever you go. FLSC

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Trial by Flower by Gail Jansen-Kesslar PHoToS Mindy McGreGor

t is the Olympics for florists - the ultimate echelon of all that a floral artist can dream of, and this July, Poppy Parsons had a chance to go for gold, when she took aim at the floral industry’s coveted American Institute of Floral Design (AIFD) designation in Miami, Florida. Awarded to the floral industry’s most savvy and creative minds, the Professional Floral Design Evaluation (PFDE) took place before a panel of AIFD judges, giving those being evaluated only 30 minutes per piece to create five designs. It was a challenge that left Parsons feeling invigorated.

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“It was an amazing and inspiring experience,” says Parsons, especially following the evaluation when during a social event she was able to discuss her displayed designs with experienced AIFD designers who gave her nothing but encouraging feedback. Entries were judged on all of the elements of strong floral design: style, proportion, movement, unity and balance. Parsons says the feedback she received left her hopeful that the results she receives in August will give her that Olympicstyle moment of having achieved a designation that less than 1200 florists worldwide currently hold.

“It is the most coveted floral designation in the world,” says Parsons. “It’s kind of what every florist strives to be.” With a name like Poppy, it might seem that becoming a florist would simply be destiny, but while she started working part-time for florist Jim Smart at Smart Flowers in the early 90’s, Parsons spent many years away from the profession. It wasn’t until 2007, when she had an opportunity to buy her former workplace that she truly discovered what floristry was all about. “When I first started back in 1993, it was just a job for me,” says Parsons. “But

Poppy Parsons

I soon realized just how creative a process it was. Now I consider myself to be as much an artist as any painter or sculptor would.” “You can still create beautiful arrangements without thinking of yourself as an artist, but with an environment that is very creative in nature and very forward thinking, you have the opportunity to truly become one,” adds Parsons It’s an environment she fosters with her own staff, who saw their own creative levels rise as Parsons trained for the

AIFD while never losing sight of the basics of floral design - from proper care, to rotating the flowers to ensure freshness, to always demanding the highest quality from their suppliers. Customers who trust in Smart Flowers and who may worry that an AIFD designation will lure Parsons away from Swift Current to the bright lights of a larger city can rest assured - her roots are firmly planted here. “Part of the AIFD mandate is to create awareness of the floral industry as artists and to provide mentorship for

other florists,” says Parsons. “I will have an opportunity to travel to teach some courses, but Swift Current is and always will be home. Having the AIFD designation just lends a new level of validity to the work that I do here.” FLSC

Smart Flowers 337 Central Ave. North Swift Current (306)773-2941 | (888)623-0888 poppyatsmarts@sasktel.net www.smartflowers.ca

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L-R Jackie Neustaeter and Jessica Adam

Unforgettable Clientfriendly Shopping By Gail Jansen-Kesslar Photos Corla roKoChy

essica Adam, owner of Unforgettable You in Swift Current, remembers firsthand what it was like to try to pull together a business wardrobe with little time to shop and limited selection. That’s why she is doing her best to make sure that the women of the southwest don’t face the same problem.

classic, timeless, well-made pieces, there wasn’t a lot of selection here.”

“I knew from my own days of shopping for office attire, that I could go into some chain stores and find pieces that would last a season,” says Adam, “but when looking for

Adam’s goal was to find quality lines with a good range of sizes and styles that she could offer at a reasonable price. She found herself gravitating to classics

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Targeting her own age demographic, Adam also wanted to offer a wide range of sizes to fit the gaps in availability she and others have experienced when looking for both business wear and cocktail dresses.

like Jones New York, Spanner, ConradC and Neuva. She paired that with quality footwear that was both stylish and comfortable to help those looking for office wear shoes. “I searched for a year and a half for a pair of classic black pumps that didn’t kill my feet,” says Adam. “And I couldn’t find them anywhere. So now I sell them!” Adam understands the busy lifestyle of the women she shops for, and proves this by offering her clients a service level

seldom seen anywhere else, even within larger centres. “A lot of people these days work insane hours,” says Adam. “They don’t have the time to shop. At Unforgettable You, we offer personal shopping. If you let us know what you’re looking for, whether it’s a certain size, style, or colour, we’ll not only let you know when it’s available, we can also bring it directly to your home or office, so you can shop without having to leave work, or find a babysitter.” She also offers private after hours shopping, so small groups of friends can have a night out and check out the latest lines at the same time. “It’s very client-friendly, because people can’t always shop the hours that most stores are open. As a business owner, I want to make it easier for them. I would have loved to have had the same kind of service when looking for my wardrobe, so now I offer it.”

Bertha Appiah

With additional services and products that include in-house alterations through a partnership with Thalia Tailoring and Alteration, quality jewelry and accessories, and their new line of Spanx, Unforgettable You ensures that you will always leave confident with the fit, feel and look of every piece you invest in. It’s a commitment to service and selection that recently earned Unforgettable You, a runner up position as one of the best places to shop for women’s clothing in Prairie North Magazine’s Best of Saskatchewan edition. Adam concludes, “My philosophy is simply this: if I can make shopping easier for my clients in any way, then that’s what I’m going to do.” FLSC

Unforgettable Bridal 115 Central Avenue N Swift Current 306.773.3220 jessica@unforgettableyou.ca www.unforgettableyou.ca

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The STrengTh of Lyris CappeLLe By Gail Jansen-Kesslar PHOTOS Krista ericKson

t five feet, four inches, Lyris Cappelle may not be what you’d consider imposing in stature, but she more than makes up for it in both personality and muscle. Boasting a physique that is admired by many, and also frowned upon by a few, you’ll find little to no argument from Cappelle about those who feel that women bodybuilders look a little too much like men for their tastes. “I’d say they’re right,” admits Cappelle. “Especially at the pro level, where we’re seeing women crossing over into looking like men, and eating, training and supplementing like men do. I don’t think women should go that far, or take it to that level.”

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“However,” adds Cappelle, “some people might say the same about me.” Growing up active and involved in all sports, Cappelle had her first set of dumbbells by age 13, solely because she couldn’t handle the fact that her little brother beat her in an arm wrestling match - she’s always been driven to compete. It wasn’t until after she married and had children that Cappelle realized her natural drive to compete wasn’t being satisfied with the slowpitch leagues and co-ed volleyball teams she had joined to keep active. Nearing her 30th birthday, and after often being told she had the perfect dimensions for bodybuilding, Cappelle and her husband, Ryan, decided to throw their hats and their bodies into the challenge of the competitive bodybuilding ring.

“Our kids were young at that stage, and it was a bit of a juggling act to balance work, careers, babysitting, and getting to the gym, but both of us fell in love with the sport. It was just one of those things where I thought, ‘Let’s see just how far I can take this.’ ” And she’s taken it far indeed. Entering her first novice competition in 2004, Cappelle handily won both her weight class and the overall championship, a performance she repeated at the provincial competition in She then headed to her first national competition in 2006, where she placed second. She was pleased with her 2nd place showing, but the next year when she went down to a 3rd place finish; a gauntlet was thrown that challenged her competitive spirit

TOP LEFT Despite a hectic schedule Lyris makes the time to sit down and enjoy healthy meals with her son Hayden, daughter Brooklyn, and husband Ryan. TOP RIGHT Lyris hopes to bring femininity back to the sport of women’s bodybuilding.

Taking a year off from competition to reassess her training and make some improvements to her physique, Cappelle reentered the competition arena in 2009 with a new look. Her strategy paid off when she won not only a first place finish at nationals, but also an International Federation of Body Builder’s (IFBB) Pro Card – the first female bodybuilder in Saskatchewan to do so, and one of only four Pro Cards ever to be handed to Saskatchewan athletes. Since then, Capelle has gone on to compete in three pro-level shows, including this past June, when she once again switched up both her tactics and her division. Feeling that the look of women’s bodybuilding was nearing a line she

herself wasn’t prepared to cross, Cappelle switched over to the new women’s physique division. She feels she will be better able to express all that she loves about the sport, while still allowing her to retain her femininity.

“Bodybuilding gives me all those things that sports brought to me as a kid.” “Bodybuilding gives me all those things that sports brought to me as a kid,” says Cappelle. “Teamwork, discipline and selfrespect are qualities in life that make a business person or an athlete or a friend successful. Being loyal, seeing things through, finishing what you start –

all fundamental qualities that I can build off to be a better mom, a better wife, a better career person and a better friend.” Cappelle has now added mentor and coach to her long list of accomplishments. Receiving an email from a person she’s never met saying that seeing her magazine photo has inspired them to live a healthier life, or to realize that women can be sexy and strong at the same time, is all the motivation she needs to keep striving to be the best she can be. “That’s my whole point in doing this: to bring femininity to the sport. For someone who I’ve never talked to be able to get that just from a picture, makes it all worth while.” FLSC.

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Dr. Pompa was recognized as a World Leader in Bariatric Surgery by Newsweek Magazine TM

ONE OF THE TOPOF 10 ONE ONE OF BARIATRIC THE TOP 10 THE TOP 10 HOSPITALS BARIATRIC BARIATRIC IN THE HOSPITALS HOSPITALS WORLD IN THE IN THE A Canadian First, WORLD WeightWORLD Loss Forever Achieves Center A Canadian First, A Canadian First, of Excellence Weight Loss Forever Weight Loss Forever designation Achieves Center Achieves Center of Excellence Excellence Byof Karin Melberg Schwier designation Designation By Karin Melberg Schwier

By Karin Melberg Schwier

BY By KARIN SCHWIER KarinMELBERG Melberg Schwier By Karin Melberg Schwier

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Dr. Pompa was recognized as a World Leader in BariatricTheir Surgery by Newsweek Magazine hospital and medical staff are held fter a grueling two-year review

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by the American Surgical fter a grueling two-year review Review Corporation, Weight by the American Surgicalreview Review a grueling two-year Loss fter Forever (WLF)’s hospital was Corporation, Weight Loss by designated the American Surgical recently as an International ForeverReview (WLF)’sCorporation, hospital was Weight recently Bariatric Center of Excellence, one designated as an International Bariatric Loss Forever was of only 18 in (WLF)’s the world.hospital WLF met and Center of Excellence, one of only 18 recently designated as an International exceeded stringent requirements in in the world. WLF met and exceeded Bariatric Center Excellence, one three areas: the of hospital, the surgeon, stringent requirements in three areas: ofand onlythe 18bariatric in the world. WLF met and program. the hospital, the surgeon, and the exceeded stringent requirements in bariatric program. three areas: the hospital, the surgeon, Melanie Wildman, President & CEO of and the bariatric program. WLF, says, “We’re a world-renowned Melanie Wildman, President & CEO of bariatric hospital with exceedingly high WLF, says, “We’re a world-renowned Melanie Wildman, President standards, excellent patient& CEO care of and bariatric hospital with exceedingly high WLF, says, “We’re a world-renowned compassionate support. What is at standards, excellent patient carehigh and bariatric with exceedingly stake ishospital our patients’ health and well compassionate support. What is at stake standards, patient and being, andexcellent our license. It’s ourcare dedication is our patients’support. health and well isbeing, compassionate What to our patients that make us one ofat the and our license. It’s ourhealth dedication to our stake is our patients’ and world,” well top 10 bariatric hospitals in the patients make usIt’s one the top 10 being, andthat our license. ourofdedication she adds. bariatric hospitals in the world,” to our patients that make us oneshe of adds. the top 10 bariatric hospitals in the world,” WLF’s Chief Bariatric Surgeon is Mayo WLF’s Surgeon is Mayo she adds.Chief Bariatric Clinic-trained Dr. Liza Pompa, MD, Ph.D, Clinic-trained Dr. Liza Pompa, MD, Ph.D, AFACS. She is board-certified in the United AFACS. She is board-certified in theMayo United WLF’s StatesChief and isBariatric the firstSurgeon female inisthe world States and is the first female in the world Clinic-trained Dr.Surgeon Liza Pompa, MD, Ph.D, to be awarded of Excellence and to be recently awarded Surgeon of Excellence. AFACS. She is board-certified in the United was recognized by Newsweek States and isas the first female in the surgery. world Magazine a leader in bariatric encourages people to do careful toWLF be awarded Surgeon of Excellence and research andrecognized has developed the careful guide WLF encourages people do was recently by to Newsweek How to Research Surgeon.surgery. Magazine asand a leader in bariatric research hasYour developed thePatient guide safety is the primary consideration. How to Research Your Surgeon. Patient WLF encourages people toconsideration. do careful Their hospital medical staff are held safety is theandprimary research andstandards has developed the guide to rigorous and unannounced, How to Research Your Surgeon. Patient safety is the primary consideration.

to rigorous standards and unannounced, independent inspections. WLF’s independent inspections. WLF’s patients patients include doctors, specialists, Their hospital and specialists, medical staff are held include doctors, government officials,and lawyers, teachers, togovernment rigorous standards unannounced, officials, lawyers, teachers, mechanics, mechanics and farmers. Obesity independent inspections. patientsis farmers. Obesity is theWLF’s #1 preventable the #1 preventable cause of death in include causedoctors, of deathspecialists, in Canada.government WLF’s award Canada. WLF’s award winning support officials, mechanics, winninglawyers, support teachers, program gives patients program gives patients the tools they farmers. Obesity is the #1 preventable the tools they need to achieve long-term need to achieve long-term success – and cause of death in Canada. WLF’s success – surgery is just one award part of surgery is just one part of the solution. winning support program gives patients the solution. the tools they need to achieve long-term Over the last four years, success – surgery is just oneover part 800 of Over the last four years, over 800 patients received surgery and support the solution. patients received surgery and support through WLF’s program. There are offices through WLF’s program. There are in Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary,over Lethbridge Over the inlast four years, 800 offices Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, and Fredericton, NB, with specialists patients received surgery and support Lethbridge and Fredericton, NB, with throughout the country. FLSW through WLF’s program. There are specialists throughout the country. offices in Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, Take a tour of the Lethbridge and Fredericton, NB, with Take ahospital video tour here specialists throughout the country. of the hospital here. Take a video tour of the hospital here. Weight Loss Forever Weight Loss Forever Head Office 15 - 901 1st Avenue N Saskatoon 136-1721 Albert St, Regina, SK 306.665.8891 306.352.846 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 Branch Office 136-1621 AlbertLoss Street Regina patientservices@weightlossforever.ca Weight Forever www.weightlossforever.ca 136-1721 Albert St,306.352.8446 Regina, SK http://facebook.com/WLForever 306.352.846 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 Branch offices also in Calgary, patientservices@weightlossforever.ca Lethbridge and Fredericton www.weightlossforever.ca Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 http://facebook.com/WLForever patientservices@weightlossforever.ca www.weightlossforever.ca http://facebook.com/WLForever

HUMBOLDT MAN MAKES A DRAMATIC CHANGE FOR THE

BETTER I

’ve always struggled with my weight from childhood. I continuously tried to diet on my own with some success, but I always gained it back plus more. Finally last year I hit my highest weight of 283 pounds. I’m 5’11” and I knew I was only going to go much higher if I didn’t do something. I have a lot more energy throughout the day. My history of depression is now completely in control. Food no longer has power over me. I don’t feel the hunger or the cravings like I used to, especially for junk food. I now eat a healthy amount and I am very satisfied for a long time. I know I’ve added many years to my life and that every one of them will be so much better. The sleeve was the best decision I’ve ever made. I feel so good about myself and my only regret is not doing it sooner. I had a very easy recovery and quick results. WLF has been terrific; they would call me every day and the support has been amazing. They were extremely thorough and very honest. I recommend the entire team at WLF to anyone. The experience has made me into a new healthy person, one that I will be the rest of my life. FLSC

“My only regret is not doing it sooner” Chris Hergott

Chris, before losing 100lbs with WLF Weight Loss Forever Head Office 15 - 901 1st Avenue N Saskatoon 306.665.8891 Branch Office 136-1621 Albert Street Regina 306.352.8446 Branch offices also in Calgary, Lethbridge and Fredericton Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 patientservices@weightlossforever.ca www.weightlossforever.ca http://facebook.com/WLForever FineLifestyles

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HOW JASON GAINED HIS HEALTH AND HAPPINESS BACK BY KARIN MELBERG SCHWIER

.J. “Jason” Everett struggled with obesity most of his young life. Always a big guy, Jason assumed his European background was the reason for being of good, solid stock. But “there were never limits on eating in my family,” he explains. “I was always physical, so it wasn’t until I was in mid 20’s when things really got out of hand.” Suddenly it was far more serious than just being a “big guy.” High blood pressure, diabetes and, Jason says, “all the ‘large person’ health problems.” Jason is one of the 1% of patients who experienced a post-surgery complication. “My facilitator Julie was right there with me. Melanie drove down from Saskatoon and my doctor was on a teleconference with Dr. Pompa to share the information about my surgery. When I had a hospital stay, the Regina support group met at the hospital so I could attend. I was also so pleased with all the support from everyone on the WLF website and Facebook group, patients and facilitators alike. I couldn’t go to the Christmas party in Saskatoon so they even made me a video greeting and I was so happy. It felt like I was there with everybody.” Jason says he still feels “completely taken care of” throughout the journey. “I just moved to Saskatoon and got a job right away at a tire shop,” Jason says. “Life is physically so much easier since I’ve lost over 145 pounds since October of last year. I am embracing a whole new life and outlook, enjoying meeting new people in Saskatoon, and happy to be telling my story.” Another exciting chapter in Jason’s story is completing his first fun run, the Bridge City Boogie 5 km, in June.FLSC

Dr. Pompa was recognized as a World Leader in Bariatric Surgery by Newsweek Magazine

ONE OF THE TOP 10 BARIATRIC HOSPITALS Jason, before IN losingTHE 145lbs WORLD

“Life is so much easier” Jason Everett

fter a grueling two-year review by the American Surgical Review Corporation, Weight Loss Forever (WLF)’s hospital was recently designated as an International Bariatric Center of Excellence, one of only 18 in the world. WLF met and exceeded stringent requirements in three areas: the hospital, the surgeon, and the bariatric program.

Melanie Wildman, President & CEO of WLF, says, “We’re a world-renowned bariatric hospital with exceedingly high standards, excellent patient care and compassionate support. What is at Weight Loss Forever stake patients’ health and well Head Office 15 - 901is1stour Avenue N Saskatoon being, and our license. It’s our dedication 306.665.8891 to our patients that make us one of the Branch Office 136-1621 Albert Street Regina top 10 bariatric hospitals in the world,” 306.352.8446 she adds. Branch offices also in Calgary, Lethbridge and Fredericton WLF’s Chief Bariatric Surgeon is Mayo Toll Free Clinic-trained Dr.1.877.306.8891 Liza Pompa, MD, Ph.D, patientservices@weightlossforever.ca AFACS. She is board-certified in the United By Karin Melberg Schwier States www.weightlossforever.ca and is the first female in the world http://facebook.com/WLForever to be awarded Surgeon of Excellence and was recently recognized by Newsweek 22 FineLifestyles SOUTHWEST SASK Magazine as a leader in bariatric surgery.

A Canadian First, Weight Loss Forever Achieves Center of Excellence designation By Karin Melberg Schwier

Their hospital and medical staff are held to rigorous standards and unannounced, independent inspections. WLF’s patients include doctors, specialists, government officials, lawyers, teachers, mechanics, farmers. Obesity is the #1 preventable cause of death in Canada. WLF’s award winning support program gives patients the tools they need to achieve long-term success – surgery is just one part of the solution.

ONE OF THE TOP 10 BARIATRIC HOSPITALS IN THE WORLD

Over the last four years, over 800 patients received surgery and support through WLF’s program. There are offices in Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, Lethbridge and Fredericton, NB, with specialists throughout the country.

A Canadian Firs Weight Loss Foreve Take a video tour of the hospital here. Achieves Cente of Excellenc designatio Take a tour of the hospital here

Weight Loss Forever By Karin Melberg Schw 136-1721 Albert St, Regina, SK 306.352.846 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 patientservices@weightlossforever.ca www.weightlossforever.ca

From the Greek plastikos, which means to mold or shape

PLASTIC SURGEON’S PASSION FAR MORE THAN SKIN DEEP BY KARIN MELBERG SCHWIER

“P

lastic surgery combines both art and science, and both are fields I am passionate about,” Dr. Rodas told Fine Lifestyles. “It is a profession where you can change and improve lives.” “Plastic surgery involves reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. There still exists a misconception of vanity that is not applicable any more,” Dr. Rodas insists. “This profession is much deeper than the concept of aesthetics alone.”

“Plastic surgery gives priority to the functionality of the body. Self-esteem Dr. Pompa was recognized as a World Leader is very important and is no longer a in Bariatric Surgery by Newsweek Magazine taboo subject,” explains Dr. Rodas. “Changes in body contour, combined with psychosocial aspects, may lead to Their hospital and medical staffinare held fter a grueling two-year review embarrassment or difficulty everyday to life. rigorous standards and unannounced, by the American Surgical The goal of plastic surgery is to independent inspections. WLF’s patients Review Corporation, Weight improve a person’s quality of life.” include doctors, specialists, government Loss Forever (WLF)’s hospital was officials, lawyers, teachers, recently designated as an International He encourages potentialmechanics, patients to farmers. Obesity is the #1 preventable Bariatric Center of Excellence, one become well informed about plastic Dr. Rodas cause of death in Canada. WLF’s award of only 18 in the world. WLF met and surgery and research their surgeon. Board Certified winning support program gives patients exceededPlastic stringent requirements in Surgeon the“One tools they three areas: the hospital, the surgeon, of need theto achieve most long-term common success – surgery is just one surgery part of is and the bariatric program. misconceptions of plastic thethat solution. it’s magic,” Dr. Rodas explains. Melanie Wildman, President & CEO of Weight Loss Forever WLF, says, “We’re a world-renowned 15 - 901 1st Avenue North, Saskatoon Over the last four years, over 800 patients received surgery and support bariatric hospital with high 306.665.8891 Toll exceedingly Free 1.877.306.8891 through WLF’s program. There are standards, excellent patient care and patientservices@weightlossforever.ca offices in Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, compassionate support. What is at www.weightlossforever.ca Lethbridge and Fredericton, NB, with stake is ourhttp://facebook.com/WLForever patients’ health and well specialists throughout the country. being, and our license. It’s our dedication to our patients that make us one of the top 10 bariatric hospitals in the world,” Take a video tour she adds. of the hospital here.

F 0 C S E D

st, ver ter ce on By Karin Melberg Schwier

wier

WLF’s Chief Bariatric Surgeon is Mayo Clinic-trained Dr. Liza Pompa, MD, Ph.D, AFACS. She is board-certified in the United States and is the first female in the world to be awarded Surgeon of Excellence and was recently recognized by Newsweek Magazine as a leader in bariatric surgery.

Weight Loss Forever 136-1721 Albert St, Regina, SK 306.352.846 Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 patientservices@weightlossforever.ca

“We are working with living tissue so it is very hard to predict a perfect result since there can be slight asymmetry, for example. Another misconception is that surgery is always complicationfree since the plastic surgery patient is healthy,” he adds. “As in any procedure, there is a risk, but with a qualified, experienced surgeon and team these can be managed correctly.” “When patients come to us, they always receive the best care available,” says Dr. Rodas. “Our patients are not treated as a business, but with human care and kindness. The beautiful results and word of mouth from our patients is the reason we are in such high demand today.”FLEW (A plastic surgeon for nearly 18 years, Dr. Rodas has presented a variety of courses, and national and international medical conferences. He is also Board Certified by the Mexican Association of Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and of the Baja California Association of Plastic Surgery. To learn more about Dr. Rodas’s credentials, or if you wonder if you are a candidate for this type of surgery, visit www.weightlossforever. ca, and click on Plastic Surgery.) Weight Loss Forever Head Office 15 - 901 1st Avenue N Saskatoon 306.665.8891 Branch Office 136-1621 Albert Street Regina 306.352.8446 Branch offices also in Calgary, Lethbridge and Fredericton Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 patientservices@weightlossforever.ca www.weightlossforever.ca http://facebook.com/WLForever

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MOM OF THREE GETS A LIFT TO HER FACE AND HER CONFIDENCE

Carol Caron After

arol and Lloyd her husband of “35 memorable years,” work together in their own construction and roofing business. The 53-year-old mom of three grown children started thinking about a facelift. Says Carol of her experience, “They gave me a great information package and all my questions were answered. Of course, I could access WLF on Facebook and online. It didn’t take me long to decide to have the facelift surgery.” Carol calls WLF her family for a reason. Their support before, during and after the surgery, and throughout recovery was “heartwarming, and above and beyond anything I ever expected.” She learned about Dr. Marcos Rodas, the plastic surgeon at the WLF Centre for Excellence, and was comfortable with him from the beginning. “Meeting him in person to discuss my concerns and hopes helped me relax and completely trust him,” says Carol. “My husband was with me and was so impressed with everyone and how they all responded immediately to any questions or concerns he had, too. Dr. Rodas included him and asked his thoughts when options were outlined.” Any regrets? Not one. Lloyd says he “can’t believe that he is lucky enough to hang out with such a young sexy chick,” Carol laughs. More importantly, she says, “I think I look and feel so much younger, a smaller version of myself at 40.” FLSW Weight Loss Forever Head Office 15 - 901 1st Avenue N Saskatoon 306.665.8891 Branch Office 136-1621 Albert Street Regina 306.352.8446

Carol Caron Before

Branch offices also in Calgary, Lethbridge and Fredericton

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Toll Free 1.877.306.8891 patientservices@weightlossforever.ca www.weightlossforever.ca http://facebook.com/WLForever

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Where

Zombies Make SenSe By Gail Jansen-Kesslar PHOTOS Mindy McGreGor

ake three friends, add in a fascination for Zombie movies, stir in some good honest intentions, and you have the recipe for ‘Zombageddon’. A new film that was written, cast, and now being shot in Swift Current, ‘Zombageddon’ is more than just an ordinary thrill-seeking horror flick - it’s a movie with a cause. Friends Bob Taylor, Devon Oman and Logan Demorest have been fans of horror movies for years, and makers of their own short spoofs. After watching a particularly bad Zombie movie one night, they decided that they could do better, and they set out to do just that. “I’ve always loved watching movies, especially Zombie movies,” says Taylor of his fascination with the undead. “One of the first movies I ever watched was Night of the Living Dead, when I was five.” “Zombies are totally in now,” adds Taylor. He thinks this is partly due to the success of TV shows like Walking Dead, and people’s morbid fascination with the idea of a body being able to reanimate. No stranger to making movies for a cause, Oman achieved a small modicum of success in 2011 with his film Dogumentaries: Rescues from Swift Current, a short film whose box office earnings supported the local S.P.C.A. This ‘feel good’ experience led the team of novice filmmakers to again consider the S.P.C.A. as a charity that could benefit from zombies walking the streets of Swift Current. “We wanted to make a movie with a purpose,” insists Taylor. “The S.P.C.A. really appreciated the money raised by Devon [Oman] last year, so we thought we’d work with them again and try to make an even bigger difference.” With a charity onboard and a goal in mind, the group’s next step was to write the script with the help of award-winning playwright, Wendy Lockman. She turned the original 50 pages of script into a much more polished 70 page version that was ready for production.

Michaella Smuk

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As the script grew, so did news of the project and its charitable purpose. Rather than respond with pitchforks and torches, the community of Swift Current stepped up to the plate and simply asked how they could help. The group welcomed local actor Brian Dueck, who has experience in television and film, when he offered to direct the film. He joined the main cast of 15 actors, a growing list of more than 20 crew members and 80 zombie extras, each of who will get their chance to shine and shuffle. “We’ve even had bands from around here and from the U.K. contact us to see if they can put their music in this movie,” says Taylor. “The response both locally and beyond has just been crazy.”

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Even the City’s mayor, Jerrod Schafer, has agreed to appear in a cameo role, though the friends are quiet on whether that role will feature a live mayor or a dead one. Beyond the mayor’s involvement, the city is cooperating to allow the group to film in local parks, the Salvation Army is contributing “zombie quality” clothing, and many other local businesses are providing everything from posters to transportation. It is clear that “Zombageddon fever” now has Swift Current firmly in its grip. “We’ve had a lot of positive feedback from the community about what we’re trying to do here,” says Taylor. “Everywhere we go, we’re starting to be recognized as ‘those Zombie guys’.” The group is quick to add that their motivation is not

personal gain, but a byproduct of the incredible popularity and excitement that’s surrounding the film. Shooting on the movie will take place every Sunday over the coming summer. After assorted trips to the editing room, and restocking the more than two gallons of latex the zombies will require, the group hopes to show the film on or around Halloween. 100 per cent of the ticket sale proceeds are expected to go to the S.P.C.A. “Our goal is not to make money personally, or just to get our names out there,” says Taylor. “We’re simply trying to make a difference and show some love to the S.P.C.A. If we can have some fun at the same time by making the movie, that’s all that really matters.” FLSC

The Sky Centre – EntErtaining EvEnt Planning Gail Jansen-Kesslar PHOTOS Krista ericKson and corla roKochy

n 2009, the newly built Sky Centre was officially opened with a concert that featured Mr. Las Vegas himself, the incomparable Wayne Newton. A few weeks later, it played host to the Swift Current Business Excellence Awards banquet, offering full plated service to more than 200 guests. It is the Sky Centre’s ability to handle these two very different events that displays their event planning range. The Sky Centre’s theatre style seating can accommodate up to 565 people

and offers a state-of-the-art sound and lighting. It can accommodate concerts with the drama and panache of Wayne Newton, or deliver comprehensive information technology and video services to those wanting to host business seminars or presentations. A team of highly skilled staff tops it off. So much more than just an amazing theatre venue, the Sky Centre can be transformed to suit nearly every event imaginable. The transformation begins with the removal of its theatre

seats to reveal an expansive 4,000 sq. ft. banquet room that can be further divided into smaller half-sized meeting or banquet rooms. “Many who have been in the Sky Centre for a concert or seminar are simply amazed when they return for a business conference or banquet,” says Justina Sather, the Centre’s catering and events coordinator. “It’s often the first time they’ve seen just how truly multifaceted the space can be.”

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executive chef lindsey sletten

The Sky Centre is so much more than just a room for rent. It offers comprehensive event planning and one-onone consulting to help anyone wanting to plan an event, no matter what the size. Whether you need help configuring the space to suit your needs or planning the décor, the Sky Centre’s staff is always on hand. They’ll even help you choose from the many available menu choices, and take care of all event setup and takedown. This allows clients to plan their event with as little stress as possible. When it comes to offering a business meeting, conference or tradeshow, the Sky Centre provides the equipment and technical support necessary to ensure that all presentations run seamlessly, from simple

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Justina Sather, Events and Catering Coordinator and Marvin Wesaquate Food and Beverage Manager

PowerPoints to fully engaged webcasts offered on a theatre-sized projection screen. Social events such as Christmas parties, banquets or weddings can also be hosted at the Sky Centre, and the experienced staff can turn even the smallest event into a grand affair, right down to the menu choices. Prepared under the watchful eye of a Red Seal chef, the Sky Centre creates a wide variety of delicious menu options, including one with a distinct Saskatchewan flavour using locally sourced products. Whether you’re looking for a full course plated or buffet-styled meal for your banquet or gala, savoury appetizers and cocktails for a pre-conference social, or simple coffee and sweet treats to serve during a meeting, the catering staff will ensure that your guests are fully satisfied with their Sky Centre experience.

“I think it’s the complete full service package that we offer that makes us truly standout as the place to hold an event,” says Sather. “We are the only venue in southwest Saskatchewan with the staff and ability to host such a wide variety of events. Our reputation is starting to be known far and wide, with bookings coming from around the province and beyond.” The Sky Centre is also gaining a reputation for the entertainment options it offers event goers far beyond the scope of the event itself. Adjoined to the Living Sky Casino, guests of the Sky Centre have full access to the casino’s many slot machines and table games, live entertainment in the Livin’ Up Lounge and a fine dining experience in Horizons Restaurant. Many local hotels offer a Stay and Play package where guests can receive gaming and dining vouchers for added value.

“Wedding or conference guests often look for something to fill their time before or after the event, or in between scheduled presentations,” says Sather. “Having the casino attached to the Sky Centre gives them more entertainment options, whether they want to socialize or are looking for a meal. It’s an extra layer of value that we are proud to offer. Like so many of the other details associated with hosting an event, you can just leave the entertaining up to us.”FLSC

1401 N Service Rd E - Swift Current 306.778.5759 www.LivingSkyCasino.ca

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SWIFT CURRENT ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER 2012 Sept 28, 2012 Swift Current Art Gallery Coffeehouse Evening

Nov 2, 2012 Sky Centre David Myles

Dec 8, 2012 Sky Centre, For Christmas Parties Nearly Neil

Sept 29, 2012 Kinetic Park Ranchman’s Ridin’ & Recitin’

Nov 16, 2012 Swift Current Art Gallery Coffeehouse Evening:

Dec 14-15, 2012 Sky Centre, For Christmas Parties A Night of Rod Stewart

Sept 29-30, 2012 Stockade Building, Kinetic Park Fall into Christmas Craft Show

Nov 16, 2012 Sky Centre Honeymoon Suite

Dec 6, 2012 Rotary Carol Festival

Oct 6, 2012 Sky Centre Hotel California: The Original

Nov 19, 2012 Lyric Theatre Blenders presents: Blackie & the Rodeo Kings

Dec 8, 2012 Lyric Theatre Blenders presents: Del Barber

Oct 25, 2012 Lyric Theatre Blenders presents: Ashley MacIsaac

Nov 20, 2012 Sky Centre Ben Heppner

Dec 11, 2012 7:30pm Sky Centre Stephen Page

Oct 31, 2012 Sky Centre Zombageddon: The Movie

Nov 23, 2012 Lyric Theatre Blenders presents: Genticorum

Dec 15, 2012 First United Church Melodies of Christmas Brass Quintet

Nov 1, 2012 Lyric Theatre Blenders presents: Hawksley Workman

Nov 30 - Dic 1, 2012 Sky Centre, For Christmas Parties Featuring Greg Morton

Dec 16, 2012 First United Church Kiwanis Holiday Banquet Combo

Eagles Tribute Dinner Show

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Carl Beam & “The Columbus Suite”

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My MyHeart’s Heart’sin in tHe tHe HigHlands… HigHlands… and andtHe tHesoutHwest soutHwest ByBy Tobie HainsTock Tobie HainsTockPhotos Photoscorla corlarokocHy rokocHy

here’s no no doubt about it, it, thethe City here’s doubt about City of Swift Current is the heart beat of Swift Current is the heart beat of southwest Saskatchewan. With of southwest Saskatchewan. With diverse agricultural, energy andand tourism diverse agricultural, energy tourism industries, Swift Current offers residents industries, Swift Current offers residents thethe security of economic growth security of economic growthand and development. development. ForFor families families moving moving

into intothe thearea, area,this thismeans meanshaving having jobs, jobs, housing, education, health care and other housing, education, health care and other important amenities important amenitieswithin withinreach. reach. AtAt the center ofof this the center thisthriving thrivingcommunity communityisis Swift Current’s Mayor Jerrod Schafer. BBorn Swift Current’s Mayor Jerrod Schafer. orn and andraised raisedinin Swift Swift Current, Current, Schafer Schafer

spent spent time time away away obtaining obtaining his his Bachelor Bachelor ofof Commerce Commerce and and Finance Finance degrees degrees through the University of Saskatchewan. through the University of Saskatchewan. He to He happily happily moved moved home home in in 2000 2000 to set up his financial planning business, set up his financial planning and and settle settle in in his his community. community. An active community community volunteer, volunteer, he he was elected to

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City Council in 2003. “I decided, instead of complaining about Swift Current’s lack of growth, it was better to do something about it,” says Schafer. In the fall of 2009, he was elected mayor.

Romance and the Mayor It was while serving in this official capacity and running his business that the unexpected happened - romance. As the city hosted the 2010 World Curling Championships, Schafer met Scottish curler and two-time Olympian, Kelly Wood. After spending time getting to know the bonny lass, it was clear the attractive young mayor was indeed ‘twitterpated.’ The feeling was mutual. Soon after the championships ended, Wood returned to get to know Schafer and his family. “I think a lot of people thought I hadn’t left because I was only home for about a week before returning,” chuckles Wood. Officially living in Swift Current since May 2011, Wood’s psychology and sports degrees from the University of Stirling, along with her employment experience in the sports and recreation industry, landed her a position as a recreation consultant for the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association. “Moving here really wasn’t a difficult decision for me to make,” she states, “having a job here, and meeting Jerrod’s friends and family has made the adjustment easier.” Although she misses her family and friends back in Scotland, Wood is charmed by the strong community spirit and family friendly atmosphere of her new city. “I love that it is more seasonal here. Scotland, although blessed with beauty and history, is somewhat of a rain trap. Here you can skate outdoors in the winter, and golf in the sunshine all summer. I can definitely call this home,” she adds.

Family Life Wood and Schafer enjoy spending time with Schafer’s children - daughter Casie, 13, and son Carsen, 8. Schafer coaches his kids’ hockey and soccer teams, and father and son are now taking guitar lessons together. “We do a lot of activities together; family time is important to us,” Shafer emphasizes. This summer, the

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family travelled to Scotland; Wood and Schafer agree that is was a good chance for the kids to learn about the differences between the two countries. This past Christmas, the Wood and Schafer families gathered with friends for a family curling bonspiel. “Of course we are a little competitive, and while I am sure the Wood family was victorious in the curling spiel, the Schafers will no doubt prevail as champions at next year`s hockey tournament - unless I get Casie and Carsen on my team,” laughs Wood.

What’s Next? Schafer recently announced his intention to run for a second term as mayor of Swift Current, and Wood plans to get back into competitive curling with a Saskatchewan-based team. So, what about the unlikely romance that started all of this? The couple recently became engaged – joining hearts from the Highlands and the Southwest. We wish them all the best. FLSC

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Making iT By Gail Jansen-Kesslar Photos Mindy McGreGor

f Mark Lamb, general manager and head coach for the Swift Current Broncos has any advice to offer young hockey players who dream of making it to the NHL like he did, it would be to have a passion for the game and a work ethic second to none. Born on a farm south of Swift Current near the town of Ponteix, Lamb was 13 years old when his family bought a house in Swift Current to make it easier for Lamb to pursue his hockey dreams. It was a strategy that paid off.

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A first round draft pick in 1982 for the Calgary Flames, Lamb played only one game as a Flame before he was traded to Detroit. Despite his small stature, his determination and work ethic earned him a chance to play in the playoffs against Edmonton, who in turn picked Lamb up on the waiver draft the following year. And that, says Lamb, is when his hockey career really took off, and where he helped the team bring home the Stanley Cup in 1990. “Edmonton was the longest that I ever stayed in one place,” says Lamb,

who lived there for five years before being traded successively to Ottawa, Philadelphia, Montreal and eventually overseas to play for Germany. “Moving becomes a way of life. Do you like to do it? No. But you adapt to it. I’ve never seen it as a negative.” As his time as a player began to draw to a close as a player/coach for the Houston Aeros, and with all the necessary instincts a coach needs, Lamb decided it was the right time in his career to transition from player to coach.

“When I was young, my mind was always thinking like a coach to help other players, so I knew that was a direction that I wanted to go after I was done playing.” A chance call in 2000 from former Edmonton teammates Kevin Lowe and Craig McTavish, who had just been named as the Oilers’ general manager and head coach, respectively, soon had Lamb back in Edmonton as their player development assistant coach. He spent the next two years there before accepting an assistant coaching position with the Dallas Stars for the next seven years. For

Lamb, being able to coach was the next best thing to actually being out on the ice. “If you sit up in the stands, either scouting or as a fan, you really miss a lot of the emotion that is happening on the bench,” says Lamb. “And the emotion part is embedded right in my DNA. That’s the type of person I am. I’m an action guy.” An action guy who admits he still has dreams of making it back one day to the NHL, but this time as a head coach. “I knew I didn’t want to go back to the NHL to be an assistant coach again; that

wasn’t making me grow,” says Lamb. To be able to grow and gain the experience necessary, Lamb knew he would need to be out on the bench in a head position. The only question was where? The answer came in the summer of 2010, while visiting family in Swift Current as he had done for the past 30 summers. At that time, the Swift Current Broncos former coach, Dean Chynoweth, had just announced his departure, and while Lamb never dreamed he’d find the job he had been looking for right back where it all began,

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the planets seemed to align perfectly to make it a reality. Today, nearly three years into his role as head coach and general manager, Lamb shoulders the ultimate responsibility for the team and the organization. Even though the spotlight has at times been difficult to bear, criticism for himself or his players simply means one thing to Lamb - people still care for their team. “The people here are pretty passionate about their hockey, and they just want to win. What we’ve been doing for the

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past few years is putting a strategic plan in place to make both the business and the team healthier. We’ve never had a plan before, but we’ve got one now, and it’s working.” Using all of the same principles he learned back as a kid when he dreamed of one day making it in the NHL, Lamb knows that making a success of the Swift Current Broncos, with passion and hard work, will be the best way of finding his way back there. And he’s doing everything in his power to make that success a reality. FLSC

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ImprovIng LIfe wIth a BeachcomBer hot tuB by Gail Jansen-Kesslar

hen Ramnik Parmar bought a Beachcomber Hot Tub more than 12 years ago, he was looking for something to help him reconnect with his kids and grandkids. It would be a gathering place where they could talk and laugh without the distractions or interruptions of electronic devices. To Ramnik, a hot tub seemed to be a practical choice.

Machine Shop. Vim wanted a hot tub for his teens to bring their friends home to, as well as a place to unwind at the end of a long workday.

After moving to a new home several years later, Ramnik passed his hot tub on to his son Vim, co-owner of Wheatland

After their decisions to enjoy the comforts of a hot tub, water care products became difficult to purchase with a Beachcomber

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Vim raved so much about the benefits he enjoyed from his hot tub that his business partner, Wade Carlson, decided to purchase a Beachcomber for his own family’s use.

store no longer in the city. Rather than purchasing product out of town, the opportunity arose to acquire the local Beachcomber Hot Tub franchise. There were countless hot tub users in the city and surrounding area who also required water care products, and the partners soon realized that carrying the Beachcomber product line was a logical solution. “With no Beachcomber store here, we had no option but to purchase product outside the city. We decided quite selfishly that it would make our lives

easier if we carried some of the water care products ourselves,” says Parmar. “We knew others were in the same predicament, and would require water care products too. The solution seemed sensible to stock the necessary products, and sell them from our current location.” It was an idea that grew larger than either partner could have imagined.

“Our history and our business nature, is that if there’s a problem, we’re going to fix it.” “As we looked into selling products, and talked with Beachcomber to accomplish that goal, our talks expanded to include becoming an authorized Beachcomber Hot Tub store,” says Parmar. They pursued the notion of becoming an authorized store, and how it might fit into their current business operation at Wheatland. The idea of merging a machining shop with a hot tub store seemed a bit of a stretch, however the more they thought about it, the more it made sense. “We had the necessary infrastructure,” says Parmar. “We had the space, front end staff, an established accounting system, and the necessary manpower and equipment for service and deliveries. We even had a large established clientele who were familiar with the level of customer service they could expect.” The biggest factors in their decision to become a Beachcomber store were the quality products and the knowledge that Beachcomber stands behind those products – much like Wheatland Machine Shop itself. “Our business history and customer satisfaction record has translated into many years of satisfied customers. Our motto has been ‘If there’s a problem, we’re going to fix it’,” says Parmar. “If our customers are happy, they’re going to spread the word, and word of mouth is our best form of advertising.” “As it turns out, Beachcomber has been a perfect fit for both our families and our business,” adds Parmar. “We’ve experienced firsthand the value it brings to relaxing after a hard day’s work and the value it has brought to our business. It’s been a win-win situation.” FLSC Beachcomber Hot Tubs 1506 Sidney Street West Swift Current 306 773 3956 wheatlandmachine@sasktel.net www.beachcomberhottubs.com l-r Wade Carlson, Vim Parmar and Dennis Letwiniuk. FineLifestyles

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Windscape:

A GrowinG AttrAction For Kites By Gail Jansen-Kesslar Photos By Mindy Mc GreGor

“T

hey say every culture in the world has kites in their background,” says Shann Gowan, organizer of the annual Windscape Kite Festival.

“In Asia and Europe, they have continued with that tradition, while here in North America, we’ve tended to let it go.” It’s a situation Gowan has been working hard to rectify. “In Europe they have these 10-day-long festivals with over 200,000 people in attendance,” says Gowan. “They’re simply huge. Ours at only two days is pretty small in comparison, but we’re growing each year.” Gowan has the numbers to back her claim up. What started out with as few as 1,000 visitors its first year in 2004 grew to 6,000 by 2011, and took a further jump to 8,000 this year - proof that Windscape is starting to create a kite culture all it’s own in Gowan’s hometown of Swift Current. While Gowan attributes part of the growth of the Festival to increased advertising, she also feels that the Festival’s growing popularity is a by-product of one of the oldest forms of advertising known to man – plain old word of mouth. “About 98 per cent of the people we survey say they would attend Windscape again, and that they would recommend it to others,” says Gowan. “I think just more people are learning about it, and finding out from those who have been here what it’s all about.” Offering a weekend full of fun family-friendly activities and entertainers, Windscape features demonstrations by worldrenowned kite flyers, kite flying lessons and children’s activities for preschoolers and up. There is a whole host of additional activities, all which revolve around the common themes of wind and sky - two things that Saskatchewan offers in abundance.

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To add even more appeal to kids of older age groups next year, Gowan plans to open up a new juggling tent, where both kids and adults can learn to juggle from a professional. “We received feedback this year that there weren’t as many activities for pre-teens and teens,” says Gowan. “With the help of the local Kiwanis club, next year we will offer a resident in-house juggler to teach the art of juggling with a variety of juggling scarves, rings and pins.” This is just one of the many tweaks in the festival’s line-up that Gowan makes year after year to keep the festival ever-changing and growing. Just days after the tents are taken down, Gowan and her hard-working team of volunteers, many of whom are conscripted family and friends, sit down to debrief and compile a list of the things they felt they did right, things they could improve upon, and things they could add to make it even better. The list includes feedback from surveys sent out to attendees. “We probably have about 10 pages of ideas and suggestions compiled already for next year,” says Gowan. “We’ll try to incorporate at least half of them.” With a growing base of supporters, and almost half of those from outside of the Swift Current area, Windscape has become one of Swift Current’s biggest tourist attractions. In addition to drawing fans both new and old, Windscape also draws some of the kite world’s biggest stars. This year alone, two infamous teams, Team Chaoskiter and Team Think Big, both from Germany, offered up kites as large as 98 feet long. Famed Canadian flyer Ray Bethel, a world champion multiple kite flyer out of Vancouver who is the only living Canadian inducted into the World Kite Museum Hall of Fame, was also there. An additional 35 or more celebrity kite fliers worked their particular brand of kite flying magic throughout the two day festival. Can Windscape ever get too big? Not for Gowan. While bigger crowds may mean bigger problems to some, to Gowan it just means more people who can join in on the fun, more people who will come away finally knowing just what a kite festival is all about, and more people who can spread the word. “It’s something that’s just kind of different, and it’s a great way to have a weekend of fun with our wind,” says Gowan. “Next year will be bigger and better, and we are excited.” FLSC

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WHAT IS A REFERRAL? BY SHELL BUSEY

ow that you have decided which projects to tackle around your home, the most difficult and important job of any project is the selection of the contractor who will do the work for you. Before the first nail gets pounded or the first piece of tile chosen, you’ll have to make a decision that influences every facet of your project. Hiring the right contractor can make the difference between having a fantastic experience or an ugly nightmare. Also, you will want to be sure to give yourself plenty of time since there is an ever- increasing demand for qualified contractors. Homeowners often think that they can go it alone, and that they can be their own renovation contractor. Some can succeed in this, but more often than not, it has been my experience that homeowners-turned-contractors fail. I am constantly invited into homes and

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Working with friends seldom works; some details get overlooked, or are found not to be necessary (like a building permit or workers compensation coverage). In one case, a client had a deck extension built by a friend in offence of a bylaw and, as a result, the deck had to be reduced to its original size.

assess. Ask for references and then check them out. I’m amazed by how many people will get references and then never bother to phone or drive by. If the onsite people are not registered with the Workers Compensation Board of Saskatchewan, you are responsible in the event of an accident. What are their work habits; where are they buying materials from; and are the bills being paid to the materials’ supplier? (Remember, a contractor’s supply store can lien your house). Does your contractor have third-party liability insurance? Are they properly licensed? Do they have a home and/or office phone number? Personally, I wouldn’t associate with companies who operate exclusively with a cell phone or pager. Many of these companies will be what I refer to as “tailgaters”, who may be here today and gone tomorrow.

One of the most powerful, compelling reasons to choose one renovator over another is reputation, but unless you’ve already dealt with a company, a solid reputation is sometimes difficult to

Always consider obtaining three quotes on your project and make sure that you compare apples to apples. Make sure that all the parties who provide you with an estimate have an identical understanding

guided through this or that horror story where renovations went terribly awry. Word of mouth is still one of the best ways to choose service trades, but whose opinion should you trust? Talk about your renovation project with family, friends, building supply stores, city planning and permits offices. If you are lucky enough to find someone who had a similar project go well, you are off to a great start.

of your needs, and will provide the same materials and quality. Over the years, professional networks sprouted up across Canada that became trusted to accomplish renovations properly. In the 1960s, there was Blue Army. Later, there was Mr. Build and Mr. Renovator. For a time, an automobile advisory network had a renovation services network for its members. The reason for such networks is simple: homeowners demand quality products and professionals. However, to refer a company, tradesperson, or product, one has to understand how the job has to be done. Companies and individuals have to be checked out before they can be recommended.

People often think that referral services can create an unnecessary expense when dealing with home improvement projects. But how much more does it cost if the job isn’t done right? Getting caught by an inspector attempting to band-aid a repair can be plenty more costly than having professional do it right. The Canadian Home Builder’s Association of Saskatchewan has developed a program that will help you find reputable tradespeople for your home improvement projects. To view their roster of qualified contractors, visit www.RenoGuide.ca Hopefully this will better prepare you to take on your renovation project. It is a bit of work, but proper preparation will help ensure that your project goes as it should, that there are no nasty surprises, and you end up with the result you were hoping for. FLSW

For more home improvement information, to send Shell an email, or to watch Shell’s AskShell webcast go to www.AskShell.com.

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Raising the BaR BY Gail Jansen-Kesslar PHOTOS Corla roKoChy

hen Darrell Wallace started his first construction work as a way of paying for University, little did he know it was a summer job that would forever change the course of his life and the landscape of the City of Swift Current.

Today, nearly 35 years later, Darrell and wife Colleen have built Wallace Construction into one of the largest and most respected construction firms in the province - a company with a reputation for building high quality projects from simple renovations, to exquisite homes and well-designed office buildings. An eclectic mix of projects that Darrell says has always been part of his building philosophy. Though at first, he admits, it was more a simple matter of survival.

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“It’s definitely been a combination of both,” says Darrell. “When we first started, it was a matter of that you had to be very well rounded in all areas of construction, because in Swift Current, unlike larger centres where you could focus in on one area of work, we had to be involved in all areas in order to keep both me and our employees busy.” “The result of that today,” continues Darrell, “is that we’re now known for being able to tackle a wide variety of projects of any size, and we usually have anywhere from 30-35 projects on the go at one time.” To meet the demands of so many projects Wallace Construction has a staff of over 35 with a full complement of talented trades people, its own inhouse divisions for framing, drywalling

and other custom specialities, as well as a dedicated front office staff. It also has Darrell’s own two sons, Jay and Derek standing tall beside their father’s side, as his key business partners. “Because of my boy’s involvement in the business, it’s given me a new lease on what I do, and what we do as a business. Their youthful enthusiasm is infectious, and I’m enjoying what we do so much.” It’s a partnership that has added a whole new dimension to the work that they do, and one that has also seen Wallace Construction enter into land development for the first time, with two housing projects that are looking to raise the bar on residential living in Swift Current. “Sweetwater Estates is Phase I of the project we’ve been developing on the

FineLifestyles SOUTHWEST SASK 47 FineLifestyles SOUTHWEST SASK 47

old hospital site,” says Darrell. “And it’s one that is very close to our hearts. We love the project, we believe in the project, and now Phase II of the project is underway. A 32-unit condominium-styled building, called Crystal Waters.” A high-end luxury 4-storey condo building, Wallace Construction has been marketing Crystal Waters for the last 3 months, with 12 units already sold. Offering maintenance-free living, an elevator, and underground parking, Crystal Waters will also feature something never before seen in Swift Current - penthouse suites. “We love this location,” says Darrell. “The neighbourhood is older and established, and the views Crystal Water’s penthouses will have are the best that Swift Current has to offer.” “Crystal Waters and Sweetwater Estates have certainly been a new dimension of our company, but having said that, we still continue to do what we’ve been doing for the past 35 years,” says Darrell. “We still work one on one with our customers on their own projects, whether it be a unique reno project like we did for Jill and Trevor Koot, and we still continue to do office renovations, or industrial and commercial projects. We also still work with clients if they’re looking for a custom built home on land that they themselves own, because we love working with clients to take their vision and turn it into reality. It’s what we’ve always done, and what we’ll continue to do.” “Building Excellence” is our motto,” adds Darrell. “So we try to incorporate the latest and most unique products for our customers in all of our projects. People are more aware of design and style today, and will often request something that is just a little bit different. We like that, because we’ve never been a cookie cutter builder, so being able to give that attention to detail and quality, while also giving our customers the service they deserve, is something that’s very important to us.” “There are a lot of good contractors in our city,” says Wallace. “To stay ahead, we have to constantly try and raise the bar on what it is we offer. It takes a lot of work to maintain that intent, and to keep achieving it,” adds Darrell. “But that’s our daily goal.” FLSC

Wallace Construction Box 1983 Swift Current, SK S9H 4M7 306 773 4729: darrell@dwwallace.com (L - R) Deana Kohls, Derek Wallace (sitting), Darrell Wallace, Colleen Wallace, Jennie Moen, Jay Wallace (sitting) and Crystal Mareschal

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Create Interest. Share Ideas.

INSPIRE CHANGE.

Our goal at Sentiments is to create interest, share ideas and inspire change. We want your home to be a personal reflection of you. Sentiments carries handselected furniture and accessories to compliment your home décor. Create kitchens for the chef in “your home”, and visit our bedding and bath boutique. Styles in classic, restored or contemporary are created for you at Sentiments.

(Seated) Elsie Holderbein, Owner/Sales Consultant (Standing) Kathy Sutter, Sales Consultant

12-330 Central Ave N Swift Current | 306.773.6015 sentiments@sasktel.net | www.scentimentshome.ca FineLifestyles

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BACK L-R Teresa Feil-Brooman, Stephanie Hildebrand, Scott Mackay and Heather Hagstrom. FRONT Rick Slusar- owner.

A BeAutiful GuArAntee By Gail Jansen-Kesslar Photos By Corla roKoChy

enovating or building your home may be exciting at first, but once you’re knee-deep in the process, faced with a multitude of decisions and information, it can be overwhelming. Since flooring is actually the foundation of your décor, selecting the right product will set the stage for the rest of your design. With so many new products on the market, and so many varying price points, it’s can be difficult to decide precisely which floor will be your best choice. Imagine if you were offered a “beautiful guarantee” – one that allows you to replace your flooring even after it’s installed? Whether the colour just isn’t what you had envisioned, or the feel of the floor doesn’t fit your expectations,

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it’s not a decision you have to be stuck with. Carpet One offers you this and a lifetime installation guarantee, giving you peace of mind knowing they will stand behind their product. That’s the kind of guarantee Carpet One offers, says Rick Slusar, the company’s local owner since 1999. Over the last 13 years, Slusar has built a team of knowledgeable professionals who ensure that every customer is satisfied from the moment they walk in the door to the moment they walk on their new floor. Professionals include Stephanie Hildebrand and Heather Hagstrom, two key team members who help make the process more enjoyable. They have

done the research to provide you with insight on all their products, from cork to leather to do-it-yourself floors and more. “When people walk into the store, all they see is this sea of carpet and flooring, which can be really overwhelming,” says Hildebrand. “A select few people really know what they want, and head directly for it, but most people are looking for a little bit of guidance because there’s just so much out there.” As Carpet One’s in-house designer, Hildebrand’s vast experience in the housing industry is a huge asset when helping clients wade through the choices to find one that both fits their décor and their lifestyle. They offer free in-home design consultations to get to know the customer’s needs and wants.

But what about when unforeseen circumstances damage the choice you’ve worked so hard to make? That’s where Heather can assist you. In addition to being a sales professional, Heather is an Insurance Claims Collaborative (ICC) professional, guiding customers through the complex insurance process. Working closely with customers, trades, and insurance agencies, Heather ensures that your claim runs smoothly. As a certified ICC dealer, Carpet One promises to offer the insured customer the best replacement value for their insurance claim. A “beautiful guarantee”, exceptional customer service, insurance certification, lifetime warranty on their installation, along with Carpet One’s tremendous buying power, means you get the best value for your hard-earned money, and a peace of mind knowing that, Carpet One was the right choice. FLSC

Carpet One Floor and Home 880 Chaplin Street West Swift Current, SK 306.773.9330 admin.carpetland@sasktel.net www.carpetone.com

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Budget Blinds Brings the store to You By Shawna Common

udget Blinds has provided its customers throughout North America a hassle free way of purchasing window coverings for the past 20 years. Jennifer Forrester began her franchise 18 months ago, and now serves all of southwest Saskatchewan. From the United States border to the Alberta border, Budget Blinds will bring the store to your home to provide you with beautiful window coverings that best suit your individual needs and budget.

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Budget Blinds has an exclusive guarantee with its Signature Series suppliers. The No Questions Asked guarantee provides a one-time replacement service for your blinds for five years. If your pet chews your blinds, or if your three year old takes scissors to them, Budget Blinds will replace each of those blinds once within five years of your purchase.

the heat, cold, and light, and even aid in sound absorption. These shades are useful for shift workers, home theatres, or any room you want to insulate from the outside. There are a variety of types and colours from which to choose, from light filtering that blocks the outside temperature, to keeping the temperature and light out with room darkening shades.

Budget Blinds carries cellular window coverings, also known as honeycomb shades. These popular shades keep out

Budget Blinds strongly believes in a no pressure sales approach, and provides free in home consultations. All sales

staff are thoroughly trained and very knowledgeable about the products they sell. They bring the store to your home, and take the guesswork out of the window covering purchase process. Each mounting assembly for window coverings is different, so any measurement you take to a store is approximate. Budget Blinds measures your windows with laser measures to ensure complete accuracy. You are also able to see the colours in your home, not in the artificial light in a store. Colours look different in different kinds of light, and what looks beautiful in the store may look ghastly in your living room. Budget Blinds has a wide selection of vendors, styles, types, colours and prices to choose from. They carry a very affordable line of window coverings, as well as the latest and most popular shutters for your home. The timeless style of shutters is sweeping eastern Canada and California because they add value to your home. Budget Blinds carries a full range of products, including cellulars, faux woods, woods, roller shades, solar shades, shutters, verticals, window film, drapery, door attachments, screens and more. Budget Blinds also carries a full range of motorized window coverings, and is eager to work with home builders to ensure proper appearance and function. Budget Blinds also installs your blinds in your home by appointment. Budget Blinds is committed to providing exceptional customer service with every aspect of your window covering purchase experience. We cover areas including Shaunavon, Gull Lake, Maple Creek, Kindersley and between. Visit www.budgetblinds.com to experience the selections available for your home. To book your free in home consultation in Swift Current call (306) 773-7851, in Kindersley call (306) 536-8244, or in Moose Jaw call (306) 690-7850. FLSC

Budget Blinds Covering areas including Shaunovan, Gull Lake, Maple Creek, Kindersley and between! Please call 306-773-7851 Swift Current Call for a FREE IN HOME CONSULTATION! jforrester@budgetblinds.com www.budgetblinds.com/moosejaw

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KNOWING

AND CARING ABOUT YOU BY GAIL JANSEN-KESSLAR PHOTOS BY KRISTA ERICKSON

Elaine Dickie, Owner/Broker

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Debra K Sauder, Agent SOUTHWEST SASK

Ev Schmidt, Agent

Faye Rister, Agent

hen looking to buy or sell a home, most clients don’t realize that a team of professionals lies behind the real estate office of their choice. At least that’s what it’s like for those who walk through the door at Century 21 Accord Realty.

Recently acquiring the franchise after operating under an independent banner for many years, owner/broker Elaine Dickie says that being part of the Century 21 franchise wasn’t just about name recognition, though Century 21 is one of the most recognized brands in the industry. It was about what it brought to the table: the training and

Jennifer Plewis, Agent

Kelsey Adam, Agent

tools for working in the rapidly changing landscape that is today’s reality. “The one thing that is constant in the business is that things change,” says Dickie, “The minute you think you know what’s going on, something will change.” While it’s a quote first stated by California real estate mogul, Mike Winn, it is one that applies to most real estate markets says Elaine, including Swift Current’s.

Starting with a team concept, Elaine has built a team of agents, the largest in Swift Current, to provide a track record of outstanding service and sales in the local area. “We give more attention to serving the people who depend on us to sell their homes, or to find that perfect house to call a home.”

A fixture in the local housing business, Elaine has seen markets shift from a buyer’s market to a seller’s, prices rise and level out, and inventories increase and fall. However, the one thing that has remained constant is her commitment to people by building her company and her sales force on quality service.

Elaine repeatedly quotes Theodore Roosevelt’s famous line around the office, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”, because she views it as a genuine truth. Anyone can show and sell a house, she says, but to take the process beyond that and truly do what is best for the client is the commitment to service excellence that makes her team special.

“Regardless of what the market is doing, our clients still want and need to be served,” she says. “That is what our job is – to serve our people.”

It is the catalyst that has proven successful in building her company and its reputation in Swift Current. “You want a professional who listens to your needs, who represents

Lyle Eirich, Agent

Lynn Hurl, Agent

Ruth Wiebe, Agent

Mary Lou Rindahl, Agent

your interests, and who has access to the most listings,” says Elaine. Markets ebb and flow, prices may fluctuate, and inventory definitely changes, but the one thing that remains the same is the level of service Elaine expects and receives from her team at Century 21 Accord Realty - a team of professionals she is proud to be associated with. FLSC

Century 21 Accord Realty 163 1st Avenue NE Swift Current, SK 306.773.2933 F: 306.773.9166 accordrealty@century21.ca

Darla Robins, Agent FineLifestyles

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Bob Bowers (general manager), Darlene Jooristy (reception) Becky Cuthbert (guest services manager), Joe Arling (owner/partner)

Premier AccommodAtions enhAnce swift current By Shawna Common PHOTOS Corla roCkoChy

oe Arling has owned the Best Western Plus Hotel in Swift Current as an individual and a partner since 1984, and he takes great pride in the evolution of the property. For the last eight years, Joe and his staff have completely renovated and updated the hotel, including four capital expansions to keep it as one of the premier hotels in Swift Current. They are passionate about ensuring guests receive the best in service and accommodation in Saskatchewan. The Best Western lodging chain is the largest chain in the world; every Best Western facility is independently owned and operated, and must meet the high standards of the Best Western brand.

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The hotel has evolved into a modern facility and operation with 86 rooms that includes 27 suites with separate bedrooms and sitting area, and five Jacuzzi suites. Other features include an exercise room, Mediterranean-themed pool area, comfortable lobby, and breakfast room that features a complimentary hot breakfast for all guests. The breakfasts served at the Swift Current Best Western Plus rank within the top 10 per cent of the more than 2400 Best Western locations in North America. Guests have also ranked overall customer service at this hotel in the top 10 per cent in North America. In 2009, the hotel won the Swift Current Business of the Year award, and was also one of the five finalists in

the Saskatchewan Business Excellence awards. Joe is especially proud of these accolades, “It tells us we are meeting and exceeding customer expectations.” The hotel has grown along with the City of Swift Current, and has fostered good will in the community. The staff at the hotel prides itself on exceptional service, and they only have a good day if you do. Regular corporate customers are greeted by name, and each guest is valued. “You don’t have to be in a large city to provide excellent customer service,” explains Joe. “Our staff members have been with us for many years, and they are very professional. They truly care about each of our guests, and want to ensure our

customers are happy with the service they receive at our hotel.” The hotel strives to be fresh and proactive in the service and facilities it provides. The staff is passionate about building relationships with its customers, and once a guest walks through the door, they want to come back because of the excellent service they receive on each visit. One guest recently raved, “I have been on the road for nine days driving from Vancouver to Winnipeg on vacation. I am blown away by the quality of the facilities, and the amazing level of service here. My stay here was by far the best on this trip. I will definitely be stopping here on my way back home.”

Visit the website for virtual tours of the beautiful facilities at www.bestwestern. sk.ca, or see the hotel in person at 105 George Street in Swift Current. Call (306) 773-4660 for more information, or to book your reservation. FLSC

Best Western Plus 105 George St Swift Current 306 773 4660 j.arling@bestwestern.sk.ca www.bestwestern.sk.ca

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Our Investments – A Second Opinion For Peace Of Mind

90s. That means investors have had a difficult time growing their wealth. It’s no wonder that investor apathy has set in. Many are indifferent to exploring other options, strategies, or solutions that can give them a fighting chance.

The Patenaude Schafer Group National Bank Financial Wealth Management 202 – 406 Cheadle St W Swift Current, SK S9H 0B6 (306) 778-4770 1-866-446-9444

We believe that more than ever, investors should be exploring options, and searching for peace of mind. There are many issues facing your portfolio, aside from falling stock markets or interest rates. Do you really know and understand the content of your portfolio? Do you realize the risk that you have in your portfolio? Are fees eating through your returns? Are there ways to lower your risk without damaging your future return prospects? Simply put, you may benefit from a second opinion.

It’s been a tough decade to be an investor with record low interest rates, and a stock market that takes one step forward and two steps back.

If you were told by a doctor that you required significant surgery or had a major health scare, would you seek a second opinion? Conventional wisdom tells us that a second opinion is a good course of action if for no other reason than validation and peace of mind.

Consider that the S&P 500, which is broad representation of US stocks, opened June 2012 with a value of 1309. In June 1999 it opened at 1301. That’s 13 years with no rate of return for investors! That is only one example, and there has been a clear trend that the value of stock markets is either lower or marginally higher than values of the late

When it comes to just about anything, a second opinion will often tell us how things can be improved and costs reduced. It’s happened to me countless times – sometimes providing no benefit, sometimes providing tremendous benefit. I receive information that I can act on, and that puts me in a better situation to make a decision for my benefit.

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At the Patenaude Schafer Group, we offer a no cost, no obligation second opinion on your retirement plan and investment portfolio. Here is what you can expect from this service. We will prepare a comprehensive analysis of your portfolio, and ensure we have an understanding of your goals and objectives. At the end of the review, you should have confidence that you have completed some due diligence, and either reaffirmed your current strategy, or been given some options to consider that may bring you greater peace of mind. Of course, we hope that you would consider employing our services, but that is entirely up to you. In a time when apathy is an added risk to your financial situation, maybe it’s time you had a second opinion on your wealth. Take advantage of our service, and we will do our best to provide you with some peace of mind. FLSC

The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of National Bank Financial. National Bank Financial is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of National Bank of Canada. The National Bank of Canada is a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (NA: TSX). National Bank Financial Wealth Management is a member CIPF.

Mediation

Appropriate for

Two or more people meeting with the help of a trained impartial mediator to: • discuss issues, • explore options, • resolve conflict, • settle outcomes, • develop communication skills • plan a future filled with potential in a way that empowers people, is safe and takes seriously the interests of all those involved

• • • • • • • • • • •

Workplace conflicts Family farm issues Settling estates Family conflicts Marriage difficulties Separation & divorce Business & farm partnerships Business & contract disputes Community conflicts Congregations Planning sessions

H E L P I NG RESOLVE DIFFICULT SITUATIONS

ONE CONVERSATIO N AT A TIME

Call today for a FREE, confidential, no-obligation conversation about your situation and whether mediation would be an appropriate way to find a solution.

GRASSLANDS MEDIATION

Ray Friesen, Mediator Rm 209 - 12 Cheadle Street W, Swift Current www.grasslandsmediation.ca | mediation@sasktel.net Phone (306) 773-5063 | Cell (306) 741-0035 | Fax (306) 773-5083

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Market Square: The Heart of Swift Current

By Gail Jansen-Kesslar PhotoS By Mindy McGreGor aND ciTy oF sWiFT cUrrenT

“We really wanted to just breathe as much energy, life and excitement into downtown as we can.”

isit any large city in the summer, and chances are you’ll see people flocking to its local markets. Put that market in the heart of a city’s downtown core, and its heart will beat that much stronger.

“Downtown markets are very popular across our country, and the emphasis of locally grown and farmer’s markets are widely successful,” says Susan Motkaluk, CAO for the City of Swift Current. “It really makes a downtown core a community gathering place. Focusing on a market located here in Swift Current, we really wanted to just breathe as much energy, life and excitement into the downtown as we can.” The strategy seems to be working as it enters its second summer. Despite being a relatively new venture, Market Square welcomed crowds last year that peaked at more than 2,000 participants a day. The success wasn’t without its growing pains. “It’s windy here,” laughs Motkaluk. “I knew that. I grew up in Manitoba, so I’m quite familiar with the wind, but the corner of Market Square itself is a particularly windy corner. This year, we’re creating some shelters and different ways to work around the weather, including a large tent that will be erected each Saturday, so the market can consistently run, rain or shine.” Motkaluk feels this is one of the key factors to hosting a successful market. Other additions to the market this year include an exciting new partnership with the Swift Current Farmer’s Market,

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whose potential addition of 44 vendors means even greater selection for market visitors. To accommodate these and other vendors, the city has allocated additional space reaching beyond the geographical limitations of the original square. It now also includes the parking lot directly beside the square, and the parking lot located on First Avenue. The plan is to expand its boundaries even more in coming years to create a comprehensive market district in multiple locations. Not everything is changing at Market Square; fans of the new market will be happy to learn that many of its more popular features will remain, and they will simply get better. “The entertainment aspect of our market is quite unique,” says Motkaluk. “It was so well received by the community that this year we’ve put even more emphasis on it, and have actually been out recruiting musicians to feature.” They’ve also realized the value of offering children’s activities after witnessing the number of young families who visited the market last year. “Last year we gave out balloons and had face painting, and even had a bouncy castle one Saturday provided by one of the downtown business owners. We will definitely continue with that, and beef up those efforts even more. Enthusiasm for the market has been growing with the help of the Downtown Business Association, Chamber of Commerce and the Market Square Advisory Committee. The City of Swift Current Council is committed to the downtown, and has budgeted $250,000 for the restoration of the iconic Lyric Theatre. Market Square has been elevated to a new level through the passion of all of the vendors and volunteers.” “The heart of any city lies in its downtown,” adds Motkaluk. “I think that the City of Swift Current has such a vibrant downtown already. I’m just excited and delighted to see how much bigger and better it can be, with a bigger and better Market Square.” FLSC

City of Swift Current 177 1st Ave NE, Swift Current, SK 306.778.2777 admin@swiftcurrent.ca www.swiftcurrent.ca

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Councillor Michael Bob, Mayor James Wilson, Chief Sheldon Taypotat, Councillor Edna Lavalle-Crowe, Councillor Iris Taypotat, Councillor Vera Wasacase

NEW HOTELS FOR SWIFT CURRENT AND YORKTON

n May 31, 2012 d3h celebrated, along with Kahkewistehaw First Nations, in the Framing-Out Celebration of the new Home Inn & Suites – Yorkton. This marks Kahkewistehaw’s first hotel purchase on behalf of the band. D3h is proud to be a part of the development by providing construction and management services on behalf of the ownership group. The Framing-Out Celebration was well attended with over 100 people from the band, media and local community businesses. Mayor James Wilson of Yorkton, Chief Sheldon Taypotat and Kahkewistehaw Board Member Michael Bob were in attendance showing their unwavering support of this new project. Chief Sheldon Taypotat of the Kahkewistahaw First Nation, states “It’s a dream come true in economic development. This wasn’t decided overnight, it was decided five or six years ago. It’s been a long time coming,

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and it’s going to create opportunities for jobs, create revenue for us to start other business ventures, and help the people of Yorkton as well.” “We wanted to work with someone who knew about hotels and construction. D3h has a number of hotels across the country, so they’ve agreed to work with us and help us build,” Taypotat says. Don Rosten, CEO of d3h Hotels states, “d3h Hotels is extremely pleased to be working with Kahkewistehaw First Nations to construct and manage the Home Inn & Suites - Yorkton. We believe Yorkton has maintained strong economic growth, and we are looking forward to bringing a new and unique hotel product to the city. Kahkewistehaw’s unwavering support of our management group and this project has been outstanding, and we look forward to working with them now and in the future.” “It has taken a great deal of hard work to get to this stage,” Taypotat adds, “I’m very

proud of my members and I’m very proud of the hotel that’s going up - it’s going to make many opportunities for people.” The hotel will be located in the same parking lot as the Painted Hand Casino and steps to the new Gallagher Centre which houses the Farrell Agencies Arena; the Flexihall, a sports fieldhouse; curling rink; convention centre; leisure water park including wave pool, waterslide, lane pool and more; and several related businesses. Along with multiple reservations already, the hotel has also been named the Host Hotel for the Saskatchewan Association of Fire Chiefs Convention and Tradeshow in 2013. For more information about the hotel, please visit www.homeinnyorkton.ca. Home Inn & Suites – Swift Current, twin-sister hotel, will be opening August 17. For more information, visit www.HomeSwiftCurrent.ca To make a reservation, please call (306) 778-7788.

The two hotels will house a combination of 80 limited service room types to larger suites which include a full kitchen. Features of Home Inn & Suites include free HomeEssentials breakfast with hot items, relaxing indoor pool area with 2-story waterslide and whirlpool, and business centre with printing and faxing capabilities. New to the Home franchise is the addition of meeting/event space with capacity up to 30 people featuring built-in LCD projector and whiteboard, large windows and exquisite French door access to an outside patio, exceptional for small weddings, reunions, and small gatherings. Also new to the Home Franchise is a tranquil and serene full service salon and spa. This salon and spa is accessible from within and outside the hotel for all guests and locals and offers all types of treatments including facials, massages, waxing, manicures, pedicures, hair styling/ colour/treatments and special occasion bookings and packages. The full-service salon and spa will also feature side by side massage tables for couples and open spa lounge area for small group bookings of 6 to 8 people.

Candy McBride recognized for leadership The first YWCA Saskatoon Women of Distinction Award® dinner was held over 30 years ago. Since then, over 700 women in all walks of life have been recognized for their accomplishments and achievements as mentors, volunteers, activists, teachers, leaders and researchers. We are proud to announce that Candy McBride, Chief Human Resource Officer of d3h Hotels, was nominated for a Woman of Distinction Award in the category of Leadership and Management. Candy started with d3h Hotels 10 years ago along with only 4 staff. Now, there are 19 staff at d3h Head Office based in Saskatoon and over 250 employees in the hotels. Recently, Candy went to visit families of some staff in the Philippines, working at an orphanage serving food to 400 children. She has been instrumental in developing policies, procedures, employee incentive and training programs and wellness programs. By creating a strong, motivated workforce, Candy has personally ensured that each employee feels valued and supported by treating everyone she works with as if they were her extended family.FLSC

d3h Hotels 1139 - 8th Street E. Saskatoon, SK 306.249.2882 www.d3h.ca OUR FAMILY OF HOTELS Days Inn – Calgary Airport: 403.250.3297 Days Inn – Edmonton South: 780.430.0011 Days Inn – Medicine Hat: 403.580.3297 Days Inn – Red Deer: 403.340.3297 Days Inn – Regina: 306.522.3297 Days Inn – Regina Airport West: 306.584.3297 Motel 6 – Medicine Hat: 403.527.1749 Motel 6 – Red Deer: 403.340.1749 HomeSuites – Regina: 306.522.4434 Home Inn & Suites – Swift Current: 306.778.7788 Home Inn & Suites – Yorkton: 306.782-7829

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(L-R) Darrell, Greg, Sanday, Dennis and Randy Schultz.

Racing is a Family aFFaiR By Gail Jansen-Kesslar PHOTOS Mindy McGreGor

ive brothers, two cars, and a love for both smashing them up and putting them back together, is the recipe for success that makes up the Schultz Bros. racing team.

Greg joined Randy on the track in 2005, a tryout that soon had him readying his own car for the 2006 season. It was a level of preparation that soon enlisted the rest of the brothers to join in as pit crew.

“It’s something that just gets in your blood,” says Randy, the eldest of five siblings that also include Dennis, Darrell, Greg and Sandy. While Randy was the first of the group to throw his hat into the racing ring back in 2004, it was Randy’s enthusiasm for the sport which soon enticed his brothers to get out of the stands and come and join him in the pit.

Now into their 6th season together, the Schultz brothers have a team dynamic that holds them in good stead. Randy and Greg are the drivers, one boasting a 2005 Monte Carlo body style, and the other a 1999 Monte Carlo body style. Each of the remaining brothers has their own role to play in making sure that the cars are ready to hit the track. “From the body work to the engine,” says Randy, “working on the cars together is more than half of the fun”.

“I’d seen Randy race,” says Greg. “And it just looked like so much fun I knew I had to have some for myself.”

Their love of racing and cars is a legacy bequeathed to them by their father, who was a trucker for about 40 years. It’s a love of all things auto-related that transferred into their career choices as well, with Randy and Darrell partners in Swift Autobody, and Greg a journeyman body specialist. Sitting behind the wheel as drivers offers Randy and Greg a rare chance to finally put some dents in cars, instead of just taking them out. With eight races scheduled for the 2012 Season at Speedy Creek Raceway, and a few others thrown in at the track in Outlook, they spend up to 15 to 20 hours together in the two weeks leading up to each race fine tuning and preparing the cars. Add in the full weekend of the race

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itself and occasional travelling time and it’s a level of togetherness few families today get to experience - one this family wouldn’t trade for anything. Middle brother Darrell says, ‘It’s definitely brought us closer. We pretty much can’t get rid of each other, considering we’re always working together.” Sitting proudly in the stands watching them, is their mother Mary. Sadly, their

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father passed before having a chance to see his boys do what he himself had hoped one day to try. Mary’s support is unwavering, and Darrell jokes that she’s “only using the edge of her seat” while sitting in the stands. At the end of the day, it’s not the winning or losing that matters to this team of five, it’s the amount of fun they have just being part of the whole racing culture.

“We don’t have to win at all costs,” says Randy. “It’s just a fun social thing to do.” “If it gets to a point where it’s not fun anymore, then we’ll stop,” says Darrell. “But, I can’t see that happening anytime soon.” Randy adds with a laugh, “I’ll keep doing this ‘til the day they can’t lift me into the car.” FLSC

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