Fine Lifestyles Southwest Sask Spring 2015

FineLifestyles SPRING 2015 | VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1

SPEND YOUR SUMMER AT SASKATCHEWAN LANDING SHAUNAVON & ASSINIBOIA TOWN FEATURES SCOTT McGILLIVRAY: THE MAN BEHIND THE SMILE

SOUTHWEST SASK

SWIFT CURRENT MARKET SQUARE WHERE THE FUN NEVER ENDS

A Mortgage Broker — What’s In It for You? 1. We meet to discuss your priorities (interest rate terms, prepayment options, target date for mortgage burning party, future plans, and more) 2. I package and present your application to financial institutions based on what best suits YOU. Lenders are frequently changing their guidelines which I stay up to date on daily. No two applications are the same, and it can be tough to fit into neat little boxes.

3. Once approval is in place, I present you with options to choose from.

4. I put all the pieces together for you, saving you time going from bank to bank I provide simple and straightforward unbiased advice, based on 20 years of mortgage experience, and the best interest rates out there. I do not work for the financial institutions, I work for YOU! Best of all, I do not charge a fee and I am paid by the lender you choose for your financing.

linen

KARLA WIENS, CFP, AMP Mortgage Planner Southwest Saskatchewan P 306.773.1573 | C 306.741.8374 karla.wiens@migroup.ca www.karlawiens.ca | OFFICE LOCATION: Mercator Financial 3-250 Central Ave N., Swift Current

K ARL A W IENS – S H OWIN G YOU TH E WAY H OME

Mortgage Intelligence Associate License #316357.

Mortgage Intelligence-TMF: The Mortgage Firm, Mortgage Brokerage License #315911

As an experienced professional, I guide you through the following steps:

L-R Marion, Chantel, Darcy & Bonnie, owners, Nikita

Be a Shoe Fashionista!

Shoe fashions are dazzling this spring! Fabulous seasonal

Swift SHOE Repair & Leather Shoppe

footwear is arriving now. Shop early for best selection.

We also stock top quality workboots, western footwear and men’s dress and casual shoes.

Canada West

65 Central Ave. N., Swift Current 306-773-9502 www.swiftshoe.com

first word

FineLifestyles SOUTHWEST SASK

By FineLifestyles Editor Sherry Lee

W

hat is green, white and orange and full of smiles? Why, it’s the adorable child on the front cover of this edition — an image that exemplifies the sheer fun and enjoyment of Swift Current’s Market Square. Before you know it, the “Market” will be underway again for the season, bringing together residents and visitors of all ages for Saturdays full of endless food, fun and friends. Be sure to visit the Market, where there is something for everyone.

Speaking of stepping out, Swift Current’s annual Step into Spring Home & Leisure Show will again bring business and the community together in early March. Spring trade shows in our communities offer a great opportunity for local residents to emerge from winter, reconnect and visit, and sample and purchase many products and services. Enjoy the show.

There’s more great local content in this issue, including the ever-popular Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park and the local theatre production, The Cypress Hills Would Never Be the Same. This locally developed show played to sold-out audiences on its first run, and is set to hit the stage again in April. Get your tickets early… this looks like a show you won’t want to miss!

We are excited to announce renovation and real estate investing expert, Scott McGillivray, will now be a regular contributor to Fine Lifestyles.

McGillivray has created quite a sensation across North America, and will be heading up our House & Home department. And there is plenty more from our other columnists, too.

Two towns share the spotlight in this issue: Shaunavon and Assiniboia.

It’s great to relay the stories of growing and prosperous rural communities. Whatever the location, local businesses always welcome you through their doors.

Spring 2015 Volume 4, Issue 1 www.finelifestyles.ca Associate Editor Sherry Lee sherryl@finelifestyles.ca Art Direction Amber Moon, Senior Lisa Redden, Associate Design Candace Haiko, Ghislaine Moffitt, Natasha Burkholder Staff Writers Courtney Tait, Henny Buffinga, Melanie Furlong, Tobie Hainstock, Tori Stafford, Tonya Lambert, Trina Annand Cover Photography Courtesy City of Swift Current Photography Assiniboia Times, Bobbi-Jo Knakoske, Brittany Hagman, Chantel Taylor, City of Swift Current, Corla Rokochy, Devin Coles, Elysse Ford, Greg Huszar Photography, Hali Booth, Hillarie Tasche, Marilyn Kuhlmann-Nimegeers, Paul Austring, Richard Sibbald, Sherry Fenell, Shurniak Art Gallery, Sue Siri Photography, Tim Leyes, Town of Assiniboia, Town of Shaunavon, Tourism Saskatchewan Contributing Writers Barry Davis, Brook Thalgott, Erin Legg, Ken Beattie, Lisa Drader-Murphy, P.J. Worrell, Wendy Ward Advertising Consultants Brooke Watson brooke@finelifestyles.ca Susan Gellert susang@finelifestyles.ca Distribution & Subscriptions kellym@finelifestyles.ca

We hope this issue reminds you spring is on the way!

Sherry ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS finemags

@finemags

Fine Lifestyles Southwest is published by the Group of Fine Magazines Ltd. Fine Magazines is independently owned. Opinions expressed in Fine Magazines are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers.

Fine Magazines does not assume liability for content.

Sheri Neufeld Sales Manager sherin@finelifestyles.ca C: 306.750.7369

4

FineLifestyles

Southwest

All rights reserved. ©Fine Magazines Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. For reproduction requests, please call 306.540.3320.

Canada Post Publication Agreement #41818060. Return undeliverables to 3440 Balsam Grove, Regina, Sk, S4V 1H1

Bringing Beauty to Life Marilyn was a former professional photographer and studio owner for 13 years. It took her on a journey of winning awards for images created from portrait, glamour, fashion, boudoir and wedding clients. She has travelled the world creating images of nature, abstracts, seascapes and landscapes. Destiny brought her back home to southwest Saskatchewan — where life truly makes sense.

Marilyn’s photographic style has a strong sense of composition, vivid colours, textures and light — bringing the beauty of our prairie landscapes to life.

Spending each day immersed in photography on some level, Marilyn creates images that must be shared. All images are for sale and make fabulous gifts for any occasion or wall décor.

Nature’s Presence — A Gift

Box 1476 Swift Current | 306.774.4760 molly4x4@yahoo.com | /PhotographicArtistrybyMarilyn Box 1476, Swift Current SK, S9H 3X5 Email: molly4x4@yahoo.com Cell: 1-306-774-4760

27

32

CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS STYLE ..................................................... 8 HEALTH & WELLNESS .......................12 ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ....16 SPORTS, RECREATION & TRAVEL.... 23 HOUSE & HOME ................................. 32

38

BUSINESS ........................................... 60 WHEELS ...............................................62

FEATURES Cover Story: The Fun Never Ends at Swift Current’s Market Square ........... 27 Scott McGillivray, Reno & Real Estate Investing Expert ....................................... 32 Spring Home Feature ............................38 Town Feature: Family-Friendly, Thriving Shaunavon ................................64 Town Feature: Assiniboia, Heart of the Golden South ............................................ 73

6

FineLifestyles

Southwest

64

73

Baby it’s cold outside But you can stay warm with Prestige

SGI CANADA’s Prestige home insurance does more than just protect your higher-value home and valuables. It’ll keep you warm as well, with $50,000 in coverage to replace furnaces, up to $1,000 for

snow removal from your roof after a loss, and full replacement of all garage doors if the replacement door can’t be matched to those undamaged by the loss.

Ask your SGI CANADA broker about Prestige. www.sgicanada.ca

THE ICONIC STYLE O F O P E R A M E G A S TA R

MEASHA BRUEGGERGOSMAN Since a friend introduced us a few years back, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know Measha Brueggergosman. I see even more of the well-known international opera singer now, after she purchased a home only a kilometre from my place in Nova Scotia last summer.

8

FineLifestyles

Southwest

K

nown for her iconic sense of style — including breathtaking performance gowns — the New Brunswick native is a graduate of the University of Toronto with a double major in vocal performance and early music. She speaks four languages and is no stranger to worldwide travel.

Carnegie Hall in New York, Teatro Real in Madrid, Place Des Arts in Montreal, Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, have all welcomed Brueggergosman’s presence and powerful vocals. She has performed for many dignitaries, including Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth, and Scandinavian Royalty.

On a recent stormy winter evening, Brueggergosman burst through my front door and passed me a brown paper bag.

“Traffic was slow. I brought charcuterie!”

As the storm raged outside, we settled by the fire with our charcuterie to chat about independent designers and trends — two of my favourite topics — and the influences defining Brueggergosman’s personal style.

Lisa Drader-Murphy: Does someone style your performance wardrobe, or is it your own creative expression?

Measha Brueggergosman: The decision is ultimately mine. The key to my gown choice is always durability and travelability. I’m not interested in fussy fashion.

I want fashion that is instantaneously glamorous as soon as it’s taken out of the suitcase or rescued from the pile of clothes in the corner of my hotel room. I also work primarily with Canadian designers. Because my job is international, I want to be more than an ambassador for myself. As a judge on Canada’s Got Talent, stylist Lisa Williams worked with designers of my choosing.

LDM: You have a recognizable signature style that sets you apart as a performer and a personality. Your gorgeous hair is iconic! I’ve noticed you often perform barefoot. I would imagine a performer’s appearance is typically dictated by the role, but you seem to have more freedom.

By Lisa Drader-Murphy National Fashion Columnist Photo Sue Siri Photography

MB: This is true. When it comes to the stylists and designers involved in the opera, nine times out of 10 they won’t

put a wig on me. They find a way to make my hair part of the character. I’m blessed by having a strong statement and it’s difficult to separate who I essentially am and the part that I’m hired to play. I think this should be a metaphor for all women, because no one should be subjected to discomfort. I only perform in bare feet.

If I can avoid wearing shoes, I will. I’ve also been blessed with directors who understand that. But being comfortable does not mean being unglamorous.

There is a cemented-ness to my style that projects a way of interpreting the character. I recently had a director in Madrid who thought a character was a certain way, but when he met me he knew it had to be something else. He wanted me to feel that the character was an extension of myself. The same should be true of fashion. Never wedge yourself into something for the sake of a trend.

LDM: You have experienced incredible cultural diversity with your international performance schedule — you’re a selfdescribed “style tourist.” How is your style influenced by your travels?

MB: I’m inspired by the local designers.

I find the neighbourhood in Douala or Winnipeg or Tokyo that features the designers who are not exported, so I may serve as their exporter. I love to say, “These earrings I found in Granada…

This scarf I found in Oslo!” I search out the fashion that is closest to the roots of the locale, whether it’s sealskin boots in Happy Valley-Goose Bay or beautiful knits in Oslo. I’ve discovered shapes that just don’t exist in Western culture that are incredibly flattering, such as the traditional Bassa dress of Cameroon. It is so forgiving — fitted shoulders and chest and then free flowing.

Lisa Drader-Murphy is a Canadian fashion designer and presides over one of the few remaining fashion houses in the country to design, cut, produce and retail all of their collections. Established in 1997, she is the creative & driving force behind the celebrated “Turbine” and “Lisa Drader-Murphy” labels.

Her collections are sold at her three posh retail locations, as well as select boutiques across Canada.

FineLifestyles

Southwest

9

Photos by Marilyn Kuhlmann-Nimegeers, 306.774.4760

Come Play at “Girl World” Bring a car load of girlfriends and spend a glorious afternoon in “girl world.”

You won’t believe what you’ll find at 7th Heaven — so beautiful, so unique — all under one roof!

• • • •

Complete hair care, nails and pedicures Beautiful and affordable clothing sizes XS to a true size 3X Stunning array of jewelry, earrings and bracelets Funky rings and accessories such as watches, scarves and shoes

A world of fun for females — right here at home!

hours: Mon – Fri, 10 a.m – 6 p.m.

Sat, 9 a.m – 5 p.m.

7 th Heaven Hair Design Ltd.

206 – 2nd Ave. N.E., Swift Current 306.773.4052

What Men Want — and Have Come to Expect Rittinger’s Men’s Wear — the one-stop destination store — a place where people come for the service, selection, style and the comfortable, authentic atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection. Entering our shop is like stepping back to a time when quality was expected, simplicity was desired and service was bestowed from a friendly, familiar face with an intrinsic understanding of your needs.

We carry all the essentials you’ll need to get ready this season. Spring and summer arrivals are making their way through our doors daily. Whatever the occasion — a wedding, graduation or gala — we will help guide you towards the clothing that best represents you.

Come in and live the experience that is Rittinger’s Men’s Wear ABOVE Barry Cuthbert (owner), Mildred Weppler, Brock Friesen

306.773.5196 | rittingers.com | 13B- 330 Central Ave. N | Swift Current ritzmenswear@sasktel.net

The three pounds of grey matter between your ears is your most valuable possession. Whether you want to be healthier, more productive or have less stress, your brain will determine if you reach your goal. Why is that?

Y

our brain is the starting point for everything you want to do, be or have in your life.

According to Terry Small, also known as The Brain Guy, your brain’s first priority is to be safe and comfortable.

That means your brain wants what it had yesterday, what it deems to be normal and comfortable. Like being dragged out of a sweet dream while curled up in a feather duvet, your brain desperately wants to hold on to that cozy, comfy feeling any time you want to make a change.

For example, if you want to start a new exercise routine, your brain will most likely respond with resistance in the form of thoughts like “I’ll do it tomorrow” or “I’m so tired!”

Research proves we can direct changes in our brains through a process called self-directed neuroplasticity. To simplify, think of your brain like a computer: it handles information based on its current programs to produce the results you see in your life.

You can choose to reprogram your brain by selecting and maintaining focus on thoughts that better serve you until they become habitual.

Habits of thought that don’t serve you are as damaging to your progress as a virus is to your computer. Though these “thought viruses” may be disguised as normal and harmless, they can easily sabotage your best intentions.

12

FineLifestyles

Southwest

The first step in protecting yourself from a “thought virus” is to recognize it. When you wake up early to start that new exercise routine and your brain says, “Not today, I’m too tired,” that is a thought virus.

Next, reveal the cost of that virus. In this case it might be, “I’m not working out consistently and that negatively impacts my health.”

Finally, reprogram your brain with a better thought such as, “My goal is to exercise three times every week and I’m sticking to it.”

productive habits, high performance is a predictable outcome.

Getting started on building new, healthy habits can be frustrating and difficult. Remember, that is your brain being uncomfortable and resisting the change you want to make. As you keep at it, you will create momentum and soon find the new habit as deeply entrenched as the old one once was.

Consistently following this three-step process — recognize, reveal, reprogram — will activate the brain’s self-directed neuroplasticity and create a new, habitual thought that supports your goals. And it’s those habitual thoughts that can make you or break you.

Every goal can be broken down into a habit or series of habits that must be maintained and built upon in order to reach the chosen destination. It’s those small, daily steps that eventually lead to success.

This is why top performers focus on doing the most important things on a consistent basis. The best salespeople are contacting prospects every day. The best athletes have a regular workout routine and stick to it religiously.

The same principle applies to top performers in virtually any field. When concentrating on continually practising

ABOVE Barry Davis & Wendy Ward. The professionals at Davis-Ward Centre coach, train, and support people who want to improve the results they achieve in business and in life. Based in Regina, SK since 1993, Davis-Ward serves more than 15,000 clients across North America. Visit www.

DavisWardCentre.com.

BRAIN BALANCE BETTER BRAIN — BETTER LIFE

Holistic Non-Invasive Licenced BrainState Provider Individually Tailored Maureen & Gordon Martens, Certified Brainwave Technologists

Your brain is the control centre for everything you think, feel, say and do. When your brainwaves are out of balance, so is everything else. Discover the healing powers of your brain with Brain State Technologies, the leading system for brainwave optimization. Hardie Counselling & BrainworX Inc. provides this innovative technology to assess and balance your brain.

You can become one of thousands of success stories — people who have harnessed their brainpower to triumph over addictions, pain, stress, sleeplessness, anger and challenges to learning and performance.

A balanced brain can address: Trauma Concentration Depression Brain Injury Anger Stress Anxiety Confidence ADD/ADHD Hypertension

Pain Mitigation Compulsive Behaviours Memory Problems Memory Optimization Addition Behaviours Confidence Sleep Difficulties PTSD Panic Attacks

Hardie Counselling & BrainWorX Inc. | 1433 Ashley Drive, Swift Current | 306.773.8299 | info@brainhelp.ca | www.brainhelp.ca Maureen Martens, BFA, BEd, MA, CPC

Dedicated to Your Hearing Health

By Tori Stafford Photos Corla Rokochy

Of the five senses, the ability to hear is perhaps most closely associated with overall quality of life. It is an integral part of daily life, and paramount to our ability to communicate.

14

FineLifestyles

Southwest

F

or Brad and Caryn Woods, being able to help those in Swift Current and area assess, maintain and improve their hearing health is not only a vocation, it’s a passion.

As the couple behind The Hearing Place, they understand just how important overall hearing health is to their clients’ lives. As proud parents and dedicated community members, the Woods’ are proud to offer caring, personal attention to hearing health, and solutions for those with auditory issues.

An audiologist for more than 15 years, Caryn works with clients of all ages, including toddlers and newborns. The Woods opened Cypress Audiology Centre in 2006 when they moved to Swift Current from Regina. Upon relocating in 2010 to their current location in the Swift Current Plaza, the couple decided to change the business name to better reflect how clients refer to it.

“Clients used to say ‘Oh, you’re the hearing place!’ when we would call to confirm appointments,” Brad explains.

“So we decided to change the business name to what people already referred to us as: The Hearing Place.”

The name fits well with Caryn’s primary concern for their clients’ overall hearing health. At the first appointment, clients discuss their reasons for coming before undergoing a complete diagnostic assessment using state-of-the-art equipment. Then, Caryn goes through her assessments and findings with clients about how their ears are actually hearing.

Following this, many things need to be taken into consideration. If a hearing aid can prove beneficial, clients’ budgets and instrument options are discussed to determine the best choice. When fitting a hearing aid, Caryn reviews

clients’ daily routines and activities important to them, as well as times and places when hearing struggles most affect them. Should clients need further consultation with an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat doctor) or another medical specialist, Caryn can refer to her network of colleagues within the medical community. The end goal is to ensure clients leave The Hearing Place with knowledge and confidence about the future of their hearing health, Caryn adds.

“It is not about simply selling you a hearing aid and wishing you luck as we send you out the door,” she says. “We use hearing aids as an important part of an overall rehabilitation strategy. Our role and our goal is to empower you to hear better, and to work with you to come up

with solutions that are going to give you the most benefit.”

Enabling clients from Swift Current and the surrounding areas to address their hearing concerns without travelling to a larger city is important to the Woods.

“Swift Current is our home,” Brad says.

“This is our community and we take pride in being part it.”

The Hearing Place gill sans reg & bold 6 - 330 Central Avenue North Swift Current, SK cool gray 11 & 288C 306.778.0826 www.thehearingplace.com info@thehearingplace.com

OPPOSITE Brad and Caryn Woods, owners FineLifestyles

Southwest

15

WOLFERS

Whiskey Traders and the NWMP

Oh My! The Cypress Hills Would Never Be the Same

By Henny Buffinga Photos Hillarie Tasche

top Nakoda singer and drummer, Jesse Eashappie, opens the musical with a prayer song. left NWMP member, Willie Parker (played by Stefan Rumpel). right American wolfer Tom Hardwick (played by Gord Nodge)

16

FineLifestyles

Southwest

P

laying to sold-out audiences this past fall, the historical musical drama, The Cypress Hills Would Never Be the Same, depicts the captivating and checkered history of the Cypress Hills from 1860 to 1881.

The colourful production chronicles the history of the whiskey traders, the wolfers, the Nakoda trek south to the hills, the Cypress Hills Massacre, the inglorious North West Mounted Police’s (NWMP) March West, the Battle of the Little Bighorn, and the arrival of Sitting Bull across the “medicine line.” The drama will return to Swift Current’s Lyric Theatre for an encore performance in April.

Growing up in Eastend, Saskatchewan, “the hills” were always an important part of Stew Tasche’s life. As a child, he vividly remembers the excursions with his father and grandfather to Fort Walsh when it operated as a remount station. “There were lots of horses and lots of Mounties; it was a magical place for a kid,” recalls Tasche. “We would ride our bikes out to Chimney Coulee, just north of Eastend, to dig up trader’s beads from when pioneer Isaac Cowie had established a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post there in 1871.

I always had an appreciation for the hills

and as I grew older, I knew I wanted to do something with that appreciation.”

Although Tasche had always read about the hills, the real research began three years ago when he decided to take the history of the Cypress Hills to the stage.

“The play is based as much on fact as I could determine; but history, like drama, is always open to interpretation,” Tasche comments. “I am sure there are people who do not fully agree with my interpretation of events, but I tried to synthesize the differing viewpoints into as factual an interpretation as I could.”

Tasche began with the lyrics and music and then enlisted the help of several wellknown local musicians to round out the songs and perfect the music. Dave Cyca of Creek City assumed the role of musical director and Mark Penner, also of Creek City, Eliza Doyle of The Midnight Roses and upright bass player, Ed Doyle, were enlisted to complete the very talented and versatile quartet.

Watercolour artist Cyndi Tasche took on the responsibility for the production of the musical and also looks after set design, costuming — and through her two murals — the acrylic representation of

the hills themselves. Artifacts, costumes and props were gathered from across the Prairies to reflect the time.

Stefan Rumpel, who obtained his BFA in Performing Arts from the University of Lethbridge, plays the central character, Willie Parker of the NWMP, and with Tasche, co-directs the play. “We are very lucky to have someone with Stefan’s immense experience and talent involved with the production,” says Tasche. Keegan Browne (NWMP recruit Fred Bagley), Gord Nodge (wolfer Tom Hardwick), Doug Sawatzky (wolfer John Evans) and award winning aboriginal actor Joseph

“Because the history is delivered through song as well as through the monologues and dialogues, it allows the audience time to really digest the history and its importance,” says Tasche.

l-r Jesse Eashappie and playwright, Stew Tasche. Ed Doyle, bass player & Dave Cyca, musical director.

FineLifestyles

Southwest

17

Naytowhow, who delivers a powerful Nakoda monologue, round out the cast. Jesse Eashappie, a singer and drummer from the Nekaneet First Nation, opens and closes the production with a traditional Nakoda honour and prayer song.

“Because the history is delivered through song as well as through the monologues and dialogues, it allows the audience time to really digest the history and its importance,” says Tasche, who is currently soliciting sponsorship to create a video of the musical to be included in an educational package. “It is our hope that the teaching package would be used by high schools in Saskatchewan and Alberta to make students aware of the colourful history of the Cypress Hills.”

South Hill Studio is in the process of creating a professional musical sound track of the production that will be offered for sale at the April performances and afterward through The Cypress Hills Would Never be the Same website.

“So many people think of the Cypress Hills as a holiday spot, but they don’t stop to reflect on the incredible history of the hills that surround them,” Tasche adds. “It has been absolutely amazing to have it come to life on the stage and an honour to work with the cast and crew of this production. It was a real team effort that included all the folks at the Lyric Theatre and I couldn’t have asked for a finer or more talented group of people to bring this project to fruition.”

The spring performances will take place at the Lyric Theatre in Swift Current from April 22 to 25, with a matinee open to high school students on the afternoon of April 22. Tickets will be available March 1 at the Swift Current Pharmasave. Visit the website for updated information on the soundtrack, video and educational package. www.cypresshills-historical-musical.ca top NWMP member, Willie Parker (Stefan Rumpel) and band members during final scene. bottom Award-winning Saskatchewan actor, Joseph Naytowhow, delivers the Nakoda monologue, portraying the Aboriginal viewpoint of the Cypress Hills Massacre.

18

FineLifestyles

Southwest

MARCH 1 - 23 Surreal Saskatchewan Grand Coteau Heritage and Cultural Centre, Shaunavon

SOUTHWEST SASKATCHEWAN

events SPRING 2015

MARCH 6 - 8 Step Into Spring Home & Leisure Trade Show Kinetic Exhibition Park, Swift Current MARCH 7 - APRIL 26 David Tuttle: Pattern Forming Art Gallery of Swift Current, Swift Current MARCH 14 PEAR Centre Street United Church, Shaunavon MARCH 28 Indigo Joseph and The Dead South Lyric Theatre, Swift Current MARCH 29 - APRIL 2 Assiniboia & District Music Festival Assiniboia United Church, Assiniboia APRIL 11 Marco Calliari Lyric Theatre, Swift Current APRIL 17 Jimmy Rankin Norman Ritchie Community Centre, Kindersley APRIL 22 - 25 Cypress Hills – The Historical Musical Drama Lyric Theatre, Swift Current MAY 1 Memory Lane Norman Ritchie Community Centre, Kindersley MAY 1 - 23 Heavy Metal Grand Coteau Heritage and Cultural Centre, Shaunavon MAY 20 Write Out Loud Presents James Daschuk Lyric Theatre, Swift Current

FineLifestyles

Southwest

19

Unique Fine Food Served With Flair

By P.J. Worrell Photos Bobbi-Jo Knakoske

P

rofessional credentials are prominently displayed in the offices of lawyers, doctors, dentists, or social workers — but not in restaurants. Which begs the question: how many chefs are red seal journeymen? Russell Dyck is one of the elite in the world of culinary arts.

Russell Up Some Grub is tucked away in a row of strip malls on a hill across from Swift Current’s Wheatland Mall, past the fruit truck and over a few speed bumps. There’s no flashy sign.

The restaurant relies on word of mouth and recommendations from Tourism

20

FineLifestyles

Southwest

Saskatchewan, TripAdvisor, local hotels and the Swift Current Visitor Centre.

gluten-free (one entire page of the menu), everything is delectable.

“Our slogan — ‘Achieving Excellence and Integrity in Fine Food’— is about how we’re perceived in the community, about honesty in our business and in our personal lives, and how we treat our staff,” Russell explains. His effervescent wife, Dana, adds, “It’s about the energy in the cafe.”

Ethnic dishes might be fashionably required in Greek or Italian restaurants, but German Mennonite Kuche is indeed wunderbar! To begin, the Mennonite Highball is free. Then there are Vereniki, Fruit Perogies — even Mennonite Nachos. In 1894, Lemuel Benedict convinced the chef at the Waldorf Astoria to concoct a breakfast combo to cure his hangover. Today, Lemuel might have something to say about Russell’s Eggs Benedict with Farmer’s Sausage, topped with Schmaunt fat.

“Scratch” cooking As for what’s being created in the kitchen, Russell and his helpers will individualize dishes to meet customers’ needs. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty or low-cal, rich or

BELOW LEFT Russell & Dana Dyck, owners

But the menu is not exclusively Mennonite. What keeps many coming back for breakfast is the Potatoes O’Brien.

If you’re tired of Greek, Caesar, or Chef’s salads for lunch, how about the Saskatoon & Jack Cheddar Salad, the Cranberry Royale, or a salad with roasted cashews, drizzled with one of five dressings made on site? If you’re up for a Saskatchewan treat, savour Northern Pike, a Pemmican burger (bison) with Saskatoon berry relish or The Little Bo-Peep (lamb).

On the Features Board, you’ll find The Sasquatch and other “curious items” that don’t appear on the menu.

LocaL Décor with a touch of EL SaLvaDor Décor in this unique establishment is courtesy of local artists, with small wall hangings from El Salvador off to one side. “The school construction project is what drew us down there originally,” Russell admits.

That was 12 years ago. With the Dycks’ championing the El Salvador Scholarship

Program, Swift Current residents donated $10,000 in 2013 to cover school fees, uniforms and meals for 150 children in that country. crEating a MEMorabLE fooD ExpEriEncE Russell and Dana complement one another as business partners. “Our volume of sales is not large, but we’re specialized,” Russell states. “Traditional doesn’t work for us.

We have to do weird. I’m the sprinkles to his vanilla,” chuckles Dana.

Whatever your food tastes, Russell Up Some Grub offers a unique food experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Russell Up Some Grub Family Diner #12-1081 Central Ave. N Hillside Plaza Swift Current 306.778.4782 russellupsomegrub@shaw.ca /Russell Up Some Grub Family Diner

FineLifestyles

Southwest

21

“Where Everybody Knows Your Name” • Newly renovated rooms with daily, weekly and monthly rates • Great variety of weekly live entertainment • Impressive selection of off-sale products • VLTs and Nevada tickets • Daily drink specials Locally owned and operated, we offer excellent customer service.

We can host any of your special occasions!

Call today.

York HoTeL

57 Central Avenue North Swift Current 306.773.8422

OUR SPONSORS

WESTERN CANADA’S FINEST OUTDOOR SHOW!

APRIL 18 & 19, 2015 Yorkton, Saskatchewan, Canada Gallagher Centre & Curling Rink Doors Open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Admission $10.00

APRIL 17, 2015 VIP Meet and Greet

$40,000

Worth of DOOR PRIZES...Including,

AFRICAN PLAINS HUNT

Painted Hand Casino Admission $5.00 Saturday Banquet Tickets ON SALE NOW!

Donated by: Nongai Safaris

GRAND DOOR PRIZE 2014 JEEP WRANGLER Sponsored by Yorkton Dodge

FOR MORE INFORMATION DARREN @ 306.521.0429 DEAN @ 306.641.6264

WWW.PARKLANDOUTDOORSHOW.COM

FEATURED GUEST SPEAKERS: Pat & Nicole Reeve

ALSO INCLUDING: Gord Pyzer, Cody & Kelsy Robbins, Fred Eichler, Les Johnson, Trapper Gord Klassen, Kevin & Heather Wilson, Rachel Ahtila, Dave Bennett...

3D Archery Competition, Learn to Fly Fish Area, Product Demo Area

Beauty, History & Good times at SaS k atc h e wa n L a n d i n g

By Henny Buffinga

24

FineLifestyles

Southwest

O

nce a site used by First Nation and Métis bison hunters, Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park celebrates the natural beauty of the vast Lake Diefenbaker, the South Saskatchewan River, and the forested ravines, steep hills and razorback ridges of the native prairie landscape. Nestled in the river valley, Saskatchewan Landing offers camping and hiking trails for people and horses, a championship 18-hole golf course, minigolf, a store and fast food takeout, a fullservice marina, and everything else you need for your summer activities.

Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park is a compact 5,000 hectares, but within its boundaries is the best of the prairie landscape. The Park was created in 1973 with the mandate to preserve the natural characteristics of the land. “With the Park located in the South Saskatchewan River Valley, there are some really steep hills and wooded coulees,” says Sheldon Kowalchuk, park supervisor. “The Park is very picturesque; when the sun sets it really amplifies the ridges and hills.”

Many species native to the prairie landscape can be viewed from the trails, including mule deer, white-tailed deer, antelope, red fox, coyote, sharp-tailed grouse and a variety of songbirds. If you keep a lookout, you may even see one of the many endangered species in the Park, such as the loggerhead shrike, ferruginous hawks, Sprague’s pipits, golden eagles and prairie falcons.

This scenic park allows visitors to enjoy summer to the fullest, especially on the sandy beaches of Diefenbaker Lake, with windsurfing, water-skiing, swimming, boating and fishing. Anchor Marina provides the gear for many of the activities, with pedal boats, fishing boats, kayaks and canoes available to rent.

Park visitors can enjoy a relaxing day on the beach, or savour a picnic under the cottonwood trees.

“Lake Diefenbaker is a water source for many Saskatchewan residents, and it also provides power generation for the area,” says Kowalchuk. “In southern Saskatchewan, water is at a premium.

This lake provides a lot of benefits to Saskatchewan residents, and the Park is an excellent location for people to participate in the many recreational

FineLifestyles

Southwest

25

PREVIOUS PAGE Saskatchewan Landing Golf Resort. Photo: Tourism Saskatchewan/Greg Huszar Photography TOP Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park. Photo: Tourism Saskatchewan/Paul Austring RIGHT Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park. Photo: Tourism Saskatchewan/Greg Huszar Photography BOTTOM Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park. Photo: Tourism Saskatchewan/Paul Austring

activities that have resulted in the creation of the lake.”

Lake Diefenbaker — a reservoir lake created by the construction of the Gardiner Dam and the Qu’Appelle River Dam across the South Saskatchewan River — is a rare place in Saskatchewan to find water sports, angling and swimming.

Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park provides the perfect access point to enjoy the activities Lake Diefenbaker has to offer.

Known for being one of the best angling spots in Saskatchewan, the lake has a high concentration of game fish including walleye, yellow perch, Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout and northern pike. One of the biggest events on Lake Diefenbaker is the annual walleye tournament, which has been running for more than 20 years.

The Park boasts six campgrounds, featuring a total of 400 campsites for families and groups, with running water,

26

FineLifestyles

Southwest

bathrooms, showers, laundry services, and electric and non-electric site options.

In one section, equestrian campsites allow guests to bring their horses to enjoy the trails and grasslands; the sites even include access to a grazing pasture where horses can be kept.

The Interpretive Centre and Park offices are located in Goodwin House. The building was named for Frank Goodwin, a North West Mounted Police officer who, with the help of his settler and Aboriginal neighbours, made his vision of a stopping house at the Landing a reality in 1900. The interpretive displays feature some history of the area as well as information about the flora and fauna. On-site interpreters are available during the summer, and the Park offers public interpretive events about the wildlife in the fall.

As its name indicates, the Park is located at a historic crossing on the

Saskatchewan River used by Métis and First Nations peoples, as well as early European settlers. Later, it became a steamboat landing and ferryboat crossing that serviced traffic on the Battleford Trail, which connected the capital of the Northwest Territories to the nearest train station located in Swift Current.

Along the Park’s trails are artifacts that commemorate this heritage, including a teepee ring, the bison rubbing rock, old homesteads and remnants of the Battleford Trail, where you can still see the deep ruts from the supply wagons and oxcarts that brought supplies from Swift Current to Battleford in the early 1900s.

Gently nestled in its pristine prairie environment, Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park is the ideal location to explore and savour. www.saskparks.net/ saskatchewanlanding

COVER FEATURE

MARKET SQUARE Where the Fun Never Ends

N

estled in the heart of Swift Current’s revitalized downtown district from June through September is a meeting place for friends and family, residents and visitors, artists, musicians and vendors — a vibrant, friendly place that offers something for everybody.

The hundreds of visitors who attend Swift Current’s Market Square every summer Saturday enjoy a magical atmosphere that appeals to all the senses: the sounds of live music, lively conversation and children’s laughter; the aroma of freshly prepared, international culinary creation;

the sight of hand-crafted jewellery, clothing and artistic masterpieces; and the flavours of fresh, locally grown produce and decadent baked goods. And it just feels right.

Market Square is the inspiration of City of Swift Current CAO, Susan Motkaluk, whose vision of an open, lively marketplace came to fruition in the summer of 2011. The growth of Market Square in four seasons has been remarkable.

“Every season, we’ve experienced tremendous growth at Market Square,”

says Motkaluk. “The support of our community, of the Farmer’s Market Association, of our sponsors, of City Council — it’s really been overwhelming.

And that’s what Market Square is all about: the coming together of the community. The more people want to be a part of it, the greater it becomes, and we’ve seen that trend continue every year.”

Market Square is truly a community in itself. Integral to its success is the partnership with the Swift Current Farmer’s Market Association, along with the generous support of title sponsor

FineLifestyles

Southwest

27

COVER FEATURE Standard Motors, stage sponsor Innovation Credit Union, and media sponsor Southwest TV News. Add to that the many vendors, musicians, artisans and cultural partners, along with mainstays like giant chess and the bouncy castle, and you’ve got many of the ingredients that make up Market Square. The final ingredients — and most crucial — are the many folks who descend onto the space at Central Avenue and Chaplin Street to experience what has become a Swift Current summer tradition.

These women, men and children — both local residents and visitors — are the lifeblood of Market Square.

“We always have to be willing to evolve,” says Motkaluk. “We’re always open to new ideas, and we’re always looking to add new wrinkles to the experience. Last year, for example, we did our inaugural Tea Run, which was a wonderful experience that we will be offering more frequently during the 2015 season.”

The Tea Run is a great marriage of the old and the new, blending the nostalgic feel of the Southwest’s pioneer roots with a fresh market experience. Parties are whisked along local trails by horseand-buggy from Market Square to Doc’s Town — a well-preserved piece of Swift Current’s history dating back to the city’s incorporation in 1914 — where they can enjoy afternoon tea and homemade pie at the Tea Room, all before a leisurely trot back to the Market.

While the market’s hours of operation (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) entice locals and visitors to spend the day, future plans extend the possibility of visitors making a weekend out of it. Motkaluk looks forward to building on the market’s success by

28

FineLifestyles

Southwest

showcasing opportunities for tourists to take in Market Square as one element of a larger experience. Swift Current has plenty of attractions to offer visitors, and the ability to link these attractions with one another opens up endless possibilities for attracting tourism.

With these many added perks, the future attraction of visitors to Swift Current looks extremely bright, and a huge part of that attraction is Market Square. These unique summer Saturdays have become part of the collective routine in Swift Current — a way of life.

While it may be early to divulge the details of future plans, the approach is attractive: a beautiful weekend summer’s drive to a bustling southwest Saskatchewan community; a fun-filled day of food, friends and entertainment at the market; an event-based evening of arts, culture or recreation; a night’s stay in first-rate accommodations; Sunday morning round of golf, anyone?

If you haven’t had the experience, here’s a taste of what you can expect: a stacked lineup of highly talented musicians on the Market Square stage; irresistible, freshly prepared food from local vendors; fun and activities for kids of all ages; local luscious produce; crafts, gifts, artwork and the creative genius of local artisans; laughter and many smiling faces; outdoor chess on a giant board — and, most importantly, a place where food, fun and friends never end.

In addition, Market Square has recently formed a subcommittee responsible for bringing animal and equine events to the community. The Magnus Newland Arena at Kinetic Park will expand and become a fully portable arena, allowing Swift Current to host the 2016 Canadian Cowboys Association Finals at the iPlex.

City of Swift Current/Market Square Swift Current, SK 306.778.2723 m.johnson@swiftcurrent.ca

FineLifestyles

Southwest

29

GET YOUR GAME ON

By Tonya Lambert Photos by Bobbi-Jo Knakoske

A

llan Larochelle and Gwen Leshures having been helping the people of Swift Current and surrounding area get their game on for more than 14 years.

Larochelle first opened a sporting goods store in the city in 2000. Leshures, one of the store’s first employees, soon joined as a partner. Over the years, the store has grown with the community, constantly evolving to better meet customer needs.

In 2009, Larochelle and Leshures decided to join the large company Source for Sports to access a wider selection of

30

FineLifestyles

Southwest

products and become a member of the largest family of independent sporting goods retailers in Canada. “As a member of Source for Sports, we are able to offer our customers the company’s exclusive top-of-the-line sporting equipment as well as the best possible prices on all our products,” says Larochelle.

Last August, Pinnacle Source for Sports moved into its new location beside The Brick and behind Living Sky Casino. The store’s bright red facade with local NHL players Travis Moen, Patrick Marleau, Zack Smith and Dale Weise painted

on it provides a cheerful welcome to visitors. The 8,400 sq. ft. of retail space is divided into three well-defined areas: clothing, sporting equipment and footwear. Friendly and knowledgeable staff members are available seven days a week to help customers.

Pinnacle Source for Sports carries an impressive variety of sporting equipment for all winter and summer activities. They also stock an extensive line of lifestyle clothing and footwear. This includes the largest selection of footwear in the city, including winter boots, running shoes,

“We have the best brands at the best prices” cross-trainers, hiking boots and casual footwear in such top name brands as New Balance, Asics, Merrell, Under Armour and Nike.

You’ll also find clothing for every member of your family — children, men and ladies.

They carry everything from winter coats and mitts to swim suits and shorts.

Bench, Under Armour, Nike, Burton, RipZone, Oakley and Brooks are just a few of the top-quality clothing lines found in the store. “We have the best brands at the best prices,” says Larochelle.

Customers can now sign up to join Pinnacle’s new loyalty program. Members receive 15 per cent off all future footwear and clothing purchases as well as email notices of upcoming special events.

Customers can also follow the store on Facebook and Twitter to learn about new products and sales.

Whether you want to hit the course or try out the track, skim over the waves or sail across the ice, Pinnacle Source for Sports has the gear to get you going. Their selection covers everything from team and racquet sports to winter and water sports, as well as running and fitness equipment. Check out their spacious new store today!

Pinnacle Source for Sports 1511 Battleford Trail E Swift Current, SK 306.773.7333 pinnaclesourceforsports@sasktel.net www.facebook.com/pinnaclesfs @pinnaclesfs

staff photo, left to right Brittany Friesen, Jeff Blum, Gwen Leshures, Allan Larochelle, Nathan Braun, Joel Hildebrand, Cole Bissonnette FineLifestyles

Southwest

31

Scott

McGillivray Reno & Real estate InvestIng expeRt

By Erin Legg

now a Regular Contributor to Fine lifestyles & Fine Homes Magazines

32

FineLifestyles

Southwest

B

est known for his pearly white smile, honest advice and occasional antics as the host of HGTV’s popular Income Property, Scott McGillivray has built an empire from the ground up. Aside from hosting and producing the longrunning program, McGillivray balances being a family man with a career as a successful business owner, author and educator. But take away his international recognition and would it matter? No. Family is his first and foremost commitment.

“Not a day goes by that I don’t acknowledge that becoming a father is the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” states McGillivray. McGillivray married Sabrina in 2008, and since have become parents to two daughters, Myah, three and Layla, 18 months. “Having children is the most amazing thing that’s ever happened in my life. It’s changed my life completely.”

McGillivray dedicates everything he can to his family, and that involves strict fashioning of his career and public life. “My primary focus is family and everything else has to work around it. We set up some work rules [and made] hard decisions, but they’ve been the right decisions. I’ve had to turn down opportunities, but I have to be able to just come home and be a dad sometimes.”

Although McGillivray easily gushes about his wife and children, he remains modest about himself in the spotlight. Recently, People named him “Sexy Man of the Week,” which he finds humorous.

“It’s probably the most awkward thing that’s ever happened to me. My wife [and] my friends thought it was hilarious. No one takes it too seriously, especially me.”

At the age of 19, McGillivray was advised: “Life is too short to learn from your own mistakes.” He elaborates, “You’ve got to learn from other people. Lots of people have trouble listening and asking the right questions to people who have already done what they want to do.”

Income Property is just one vehicle by which McGillivray educates homeowners on smart investing and renovations. Armed with more than 150 of his own income properties across North America and his B. Comm (Honours), he partnered with longtime friend, Michael Sarracini, and founded the Lifetime Wealth Academy, providing crucial real estate advice and education to want-to-be investors. “Teaching other people is something I always gravitated toward and I was naturally giving real estate and reno advice to my friends and family anyway,” he explains.

“I feel my best when people can take something away from the show or a live event. I love hearing when people have learned something or have been inspired to buy a property or take on a renovation because of me. That’s the most rewarding.”

In 2015, McGillivray will continue educating homeowners using his knowledge and expertise in real estate as a regular contributor to Fine Lifestyles and Fine Homes magazines. “It’s going to be a good year!” he says with his trademark smile.

Check out the new season of Income property thursdays at 9 p.m. & 9:30p.m. et/pt on Hgtv CanaDa. /everythingscottMcgillivray | @smcgillivray @scottmcg | @scott_mcgillivray www.scottmcgillivray.com PREVIOUS PAGE PHOTO Tim Leyes THIS PAGE PHOTOS Richard Sibbald

FineLifestyles

Southwest

33

INCOME PROPERTY NEW SEASON

FEBRUARY 26 HGTV is a trademark of Scripps Networks, LLC; used with permission.

BRIN GIN G PAS S I O N T O

Construction Projects & the Community

By Tonya Lambert

F

rontier Builders is a community builder. Whether constructing an office building or sponsoring a local organization, the owners and staff at Frontier Builders are committed to serving the communities where they live and work.

Frontier Builders is passionate about the people it serves and is devoted to helping them grow and succeed. They are a proud sponsor of the Swift Current Broncos and minor hockey, and a supporter of numerous charity fundraisers.

Frontier Builders is a division of Leeville Construction of Moose Jaw. Leeville Construction was founded in Assiniboia in 1981 by Carl Pilkey, general manager of Inland Construction since 1958. In 2000, Leeville acquired Frontier Construction, changing its name to Frontier Builders.

Leeville purchased Craftex Construction in Lloydminster in 2004, changing its name to Craftex Builders. Leeville purchased Cardinal Construction in Moose Jaw in 2013, changing its name to Leeville Construction and moving the company’s headquarters there. While TOP BACK ROW L-R Teri Friesen, Danny Markovinovich, Tim Ardley, Garry Bachiu FRONT ROW L-R Pieter Pretorius, Lindsay Markovinovich ABOVE Danny Markovinovich THIS PAGE photos by Bobbi-Jo Knakoske FineLifestyles

Southwest

35

the company has seen several name changes, moves and expansions over the years, their top-notch service and quality construction have remained the same.

Frontier Builders constructs all types of facilities, from schools, hospitals and restaurants to financial institutions, sports arenas, water treatment plants and everything in between. They are responsible for designing and constructing hundreds of buildings throughout the Southwest, including Tim Horton’s, Best Western Hotel and Redhead Equipment in Swift Current, the Kyle Integrated Facility and the Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreational Centre in Assiniboia. These and many more innovative and durable buildings stand as a testament both to the company’s commitment to excellence and its

dedication to the communities which it serves.

Specializing in bringing their clients’ commercial and industrial visions to life, the owners and staff at Frontier Builders rely on proven processes and procedures along with a proactive approach to everything they do, from scheduling to budgeting, from safety to building. Their well-trained, experienced and approachable staff members work closely with clients throughout every phase of construction.

“Communication is key to our successful business,” says Danny Markovinovich, president, general manager and major shareholder. “This is true for all aspects of a project. We communicate frequently with our clients to accurately

THIS PAGE Swift Current photos by Bobbi-Jo Knakoske

36

FineLifestyles

Southwest

ascertain their needs and wants. We are careful to communicate all safety procedures and expectations to our employees and subcontractors.

We converse regularly with our subcontractors to make sure everything is proceeding as it should.”

Frontier Builders’ four site managers have more than 70 years combined experience and are respected for their abilities to get the job done safely and accurately, while remaining on time and within budget. Explains Markovinovich, “Project Management includes all the necessary steps to select consultants, secure permits, conduct soil investigations and legal surveys, procure and supervise construction services, and provide comprehensive contract administration.

At Frontier Builders, we strive for quality.

You can count on us to ensure things are done right.” Frontier currently has several projects underway, including Custom Truck and Underferth Industries in Swift Current and Co-op stores in Shaunavon and Assiniboia.

In addition to design-built buildings, Frontier Builders also offers clients the option of a pre-engineered building. They are dealers for Butler Pre-engineered Metal Buildings — a favourite in the oil fields because they are both efficient and durable, with top-notch structural framing and roofing.

Safety is an integral part of any Frontier Builders construction project. A CORcertified company, they have a carefully constructed workplace health and safety management system; it requires

employees to have training in First Aid, CPR and WHMIS, and to fully understand the principles of health and safety.

Protective equipment, First Aid materials and safety notices are found on every site.

Safety is everyone’s responsibility and for everyone’s benefit. It lessens downtime and compensation costs for the owner but, more importantly, it ensures all Frontier’s employees and subcontractors make it home to their families safe and sound each night.

Frontier Builders’ decades of experience means it truly understands the nuts and bolts of the construction industry.

The cornerstone of their business has always been a commitment to creating strong communities. Building on a foundation of respect, communication, integrity and trust, Frontier Builders

endeavours to ensure every project they undertake not only meets, but exceeds their clients’ expectations.

Construction cost and process specialists, Frontier Builders combines experience, expertise and enthusiasm with safety, service and a solid reputation to provide comprehensive commercial construction packages. Frontier Builders’ business acumen, technical prowess and enormous experience are the ideal ingredients for any successful construction project.

Frontier Builders 37 - 5th Ave. N.W. Swift Current, SK S9H 4T4 306.773.2974 www.leevilleconstruction.com

THIS PAGE Assiniboia photos top and left by Hali Booth

FineLifestyles

Southwest

37

SPRING HOME FEATURE

SPRING STEP INTO

Bringing the Community & Business TogeTher

“ 38

FineLifestyles

Southwest

Step into Spring is a great

place for the community to meet, learn what events are coming up in the new year and make connections with local businesses.”

S

pring is just around the corner, and everyone’s thoughts turn to warmer weather. With visions of sunny days, vacations and todo lists dancing in our heads, we look to the future with renewed optimism.

There is no better place to get inspired than the 2015 Step into Spring Home & Leisure Show from March 6 to 8.

Celebrating its 35th year, the event is one of the largest trade shows in southwest Saskatchewan, boasting more than 80 exhibitors from across the province and neighbouring provinces.

Since its inception, the show has been one of Swift Current Agricultural and Exhibition Association’s (Ag & Ex) biggest community building events, bringing together local businesses and shoppers. As the community’s first big event of the year, Step into Spring is a jumping-off point for shaking off the winter “blahs.”

This year, visitors can look forward to some new elements, such as a live stage featuring entertainment and demonstrations from various businesses.

“Step into Spring really gets you excited for the warmer weather. After the long winter, it’s nice to have a break from the cold weather routine to plan home improvements, trips or learn about new health and beauty products,” says Tracey Stevenson, general manager of the Swift Current Ag & Ex.

The three-day event draws approximately 4,000 visitors each year, a boon for the local business community, as well as the Ag & Ex itself. “Trade shows are a great way for local businesses to gain exposure and build relationships with customers. It also allows customers to try products before they buy them; it’s part shopping trip and part educational experience,” says Darla Lindbjerg, CEO of the Swift Current and District Chamber of Commerce.

Part of the city’s strategic plan for the next decade is firmly rooted in community and economic development, with a goal of 25,000 residents by 2025 — something only achievable through strong business involvement. “The more our businesses grow and the more businesses we draw to invest in our community, the more resilient our community will become.

These types of events build stronger, more engaged communities and businesses which is good for everyone,” adds Lindbjerg.

An extremely popular event, Step into Spring usually has a vendor waiting list by January. It also features several returning businesses which have been a part of the show since its creation, such as Pioneer Co-op and Tourism Swift Current. The event inspires residents to see the beauty in their own backyard, encouraging more local excursions with family and friends.

The wide breadth of businesses featured

Photo courtesy Sentiments Design

in the show ensures there is something for everyone from recreational vehicles to home décor — even fudge and cotton candy for the kids.

“Step into Spring is a great place for the community to meet, learn what events are coming up in the new year and make connections with local businesses,” says Stevenson. “The Swift Current Ag & Ex has been a part of this community since 1954 and we are truly invested in making our city a better place.”

For more information, visit http://www.swiftcurrentex.com

FineLifestyles

Southwest

39

SPRING HOME FEATURE

An Energy-Efficient Dream Home Awaits You

By Melanie Furlong Photos Bobbi-Jo Knakoske

W

hen Steven Lacey and his wife Julie decided to move home to Saskatchewan to raise their young family in 2008, they knew exactly what they wanted to do: start a company focused on building high-quality, energy-efficient homes in and around Swift Current.

Their company, Evolve Developments Ltd, has since built approximately 50 ENERGY STAR®-certified residential homes, ranging from starter homes to forever dream homes. Each one has been done with the same care they would put into building their

40

FineLifestyles

Southwest

very own home. “We’ve always been about quality, not quantity,” says Steven.

The two both grew up on farms near Eastend, SK, and furthered their studies in Alberta. Steven, a fourth generation carpenter, obtained his journeyman certificate in carpentry in Medicine Hat and worked for his father’s company, Lacey Homes, for more than a decade.

Julie completed her B.Sc and B.Ed degrees at the University of Lethbridge and worked as a high school teacher before Evolve Developments was started.

At Evolve, the Laceys have consistently used innovative materials to make homes as energy-efficient as possible. They are the exclusive installers of WALLTITE ECO spray foam insulation from BASF in Swift Current. This top quality product — the same as that used by Mike Holmes on Holmes on Homes — serves many different applications and offers some of the best R-values around. An R-value of 6.3 is achieved per inch of thickness at which the spray foam is applied.

Typically, they do R-28 in exterior walls and combine with blow-in insulation for R-60 in attics.

to detail and try to think of everything our homeowners are looking for.”

Spec homes are an excellent option for busy, working families who don’t have the time to choose every element of their custom home. These projects also give the Laceys a chance to exercise their creativity.

“When we build a home, we spray foam everything: under cement floors for in-floor heat pipes, basement walls, floor joists, the main outside walls and in the attic,” says Julie. “We’re also often hired by other contractors to install it in their projects.”

Homeowners Jane and Gan were thrilled with their new home by Evolve and say they could definitely feel the differences in the quality between it and previous homes right away. “Our energy bill last November

was nearly half of the November bills of the previous houses,” says Jane. “It’s a true ENERGY STAR® home and we appreciate the quality Evolve put into it.”

Evolve does both custom builds and spec homes on a regular basis, as well as making time to do a show home every year. Right now, they have two projects underway that will be completed and for sale by the end of 2015. Julie says, “Our spec homes are true dream homes. We pay special attention

But it all comes down to making a house a true home for their clients. Julie says, “When we hand over the keys and we have created a home for someone — that’s what it’s all about.”

ABOVE The Lacey family

Evolve Developments Ltd. 50-19th Ave. NE Swift Current, SK 306.778.1050 evolve@sasktel.net www.evolvedevelopmentsltd.ca

FineLifestyles

Southwest

41

SPRING HOME FEATURE

The Picturesque Yard You’ve Always Dreamed of

By Tonya Lambert

Y

our yard is a place for personal expression, an enriching outdoor oasis. Some are playful places meant for fun and frolicking.

Others are refuges for rest and relaxation.

Still others are for entertaining and enjoying the sunny weather with friends and family. Whatever the purpose of your yard, you will find everything you need to create a perfectly picturesque panorama at NIJO Yard Supplies Plus, located only four km east of Swift Current along Highway 1.

42

FineLifestyles

Southwest

From paving stones to patio furniture, sprinkler systems to pond supplies, NIJO is a one-stop shop for all your landscaping needs. Since 2009, owners Nicky and Joel Cyrenne and their friendly staff have been offering customers personalized, down-to-earth service that is both knowledgeable and helpful. They specialize in assisting do-it-yourselfers, whether it’s creating a new space or complementing an existing one. They also install the products they sell.

Every beautiful landscape begins with a solid foundation. Your walkways and patio, retaining walls and irrigation system, even your topsoil and sod provide the necessary framework of every yard.

NIJO carries Barkman Concrete products and Shercom Industries recycled rubber products, both designed to provide a durable and dependable structure to your dream yard. Alongside your basic paving stones and steps, Barkman also produces a series of Do-It-Yourself Kits.

The popular outdoor kitchen kit includes the options of a pizza oven, barbeque, fridge, side burner and garbage disposal area. To enhance the kitchen, add a matching waterfall or grand fireplace kit, or whatever your outdoor living space needs. If you’re considering a pond, NIJO carries the Aquascape line of products.

This spring, NIJO will be introducing the Homecrest line of patio furnishings to the people of Swift Current and district.

Top-of-the-line, Homecrest offers an astounding array of tables and chairs, fire tables and other outdoor accessories.

Choose from a variety of styles, fabrics and finishes to fit your tastes. With a Barkman outdoor kitchen, complete with Homecrest furnishings, your patio will truly become an extra room for the house.

BEFORE

AFTER

Unlike flowers and shrubs, sculptures and statuary provide a pretty facade yearround and thus form an important part of your landscape. Henri Studios has been producing top-quality garden products for more than 50 years and NIJO is pleased to offer these fine products to their customers. Manufacturers of bronze statues and cast stone fountains, birdbaths, planters and statuary, Henri Studios’ designs range classical to contemporary and are sure to add character to any garden.

NIJO is proud to carry the proven line of Massarelli concrete garden sculptures, planters, birdbaths and fountains. The beauty and whimsy of Massarelli designs are guaranteed to bring a smile to faces of all who see them. Their playful pixies and amusing animals create fun focal points in any garden, while their planters and pots do double duty, being both pretty and purposeful.

At NIJO, you will find everything you need to create a timeless space of enduring beauty. Whether your tastes run sleek and stylish, magical and mysterious, or cute and quirky, there is something for everyone at NIJO Yard Supplies Plus.

RIGHT Nicky and Joel Cyrenne, owners.

Photo Bobbi-Jo Knakoske.

NIJO Yard Supplies Plus 306.773.7477 www.nijo.ca nijo@sasktel.net

FineLifestyles

Southwest

43

SPRING HOME FEATURE

Warehouse Floors Has You Covered

See us for the best in quality, selection and installation.

Warehouse FloorS

365 North Service road West, Swift Current | 306.773.7760

Eliminate Odours with Ozone

Kevin Spate Western Canadian Home Inspections 306.741.1150 kshome@live.com www.wchi.ca

O

zone shock treatment is a process which involves using an ozone generator to saturate a space over a period of time with ozone. These treatments can eliminate a number of odours such as those found in automobiles, recreational vehicles, sports equipment or those caused by cigarette smoke, fire or flood, cooking and animals.

What is Ozone? Ozone is a molecule that consists of three (3) oxygen atoms (O3), with a delta negative and a delta positive electric charge. The ozone molecules are very unstable and have a short half-

life. Therefore, after some time it decays back into its original form of (O2) oxygen.

Ozone or (O3) is sometimes called activated oxygen, containing three atoms of oxygen instead of the two we normally breathe. It is the second most powerful sterilant in the world and can be used to destroy bacteria, viruses and odours.

but will also completely eliminate odour and microorganisms such as viruses, mold and bacteria. How is this accomplished? The extra oxygen atom is released from the ozone molecule and binds with other material. What remains is only the pure and stable oxygen molecule.

In essence, ozone is nothing more than oxygen (O2) with an extra oxygen atom.

In nature, it is produced by some chemical reactions. The most familiar example is the ozone layer, where ozone is produced from the sun’s ultra-violet (UV) rays.

It can also be produced by waterfalls and thunderstorms, where the extreme high voltages generated within these storms produce ozone from oxygen. The fresh smell of clean, spring rain comes from nature-produced ozone. The word “ozone” is derived from the Greek word “ozein,” which means to smell.

Ozone is one of the strongest oxidation agents available for use. The additional oxygen atom will bind (oxidize) in a split second to every component it contacts.

Ozone is only produced under extreme circumstances. Ozone generators can also produce ozone with extreme high voltages or UV light.

How does it work? Ozone operates according to the principals of oxidation.

When the static loaded ozone molecule (O3) contacts something oxidational, the charge of the ozone molecule directly flows over to it. This happens because ozone is very unstable and prefers to turn back to its original form of oxygen (O2).

Ozone can oxidize all kinds of materials,

What is it used for? Ozone can be used for a broad array of purification applications. For the most part, it is applied in municipal wastewater and potable water treatment plants (for disinfection). However, it is increasingly being used for industrial purposes.

In the food industry, for example, ozone is used for disinfection. In the paper and textile industry, it is used to oxidize wastewater.

What are the benefits? The main benefit of ozone is its clean character; it creates almost no by-products. Because ozone has a strong recognizable odour, very low concentrations can be easily recognized. This makes it generally safe to work with. Ozone is 100 per cent environmentally friendly.

Ozone shock treatments can be beneficial for your home. Contact me for more information.

FineLifestyles

Southwest

45

SPRING HOME FEATURE

INSPIRATION for Your Sewing, Quilting & Vacuum Needs

By Melanie Furlong Photos Bobbi-Jo Knakoske

S

ince 2000, Vince and Daryl Taylor have been providing top-of-the-line residential and commercial vacuums, central vacuum systems and janitorial supplies to Swift Current and surrounding area.

The father and son duo have been selling Electrolux, Sebo and many other brands of vacuums for some time, as well as the Cyclovac built-in vacuum systems for

46

FineLifestyles

Southwest

more than 12 years at Superior Vacuum.

They also supply janitorial cleaning products such as floor scrubbers, paper products, floor finish and other related products. In 2012, they decided to add fabric, Brother Sewing and Embroidery machines and sewing notions to the operation’s mix. Sowen Quilt Shop (named after Vince’s grandson, Owen) was born and became an important part of business.

Helping customers with the “Right Products for the Job” is the key focus at Superior Vacuum and Sowen Quilt Shop as they continually work to provide quality products and services. “Providing excellent service to our customers is our main goal as we guide them through their purchase, whether it is vacuum or sewing machine-related or their quilting process,” says Vince.

After a 35-year nursing career, Vince’s wife, Brenda, joined the operation in October 2014 and is quickly becoming focused on the total operation. In November 2014, another avid quilter, Cindy Logan, joined the store on a parttime basis. These ladies have many years of experience in the sewing and quilting industry and are eagerly seeking out new ideas for the store, as well as the organization and presentation of products.

While the vacuum and janitorial sides of the business see many local and repeat customers, their fantastic range of quilting supplies attracts shoppers from many locations. “The quilters definitely like to try new things, and they travel around together to check things out and get inspiration for new projects,” Vince adds.

After attending a vacuum and sewing show in February this year, which includes various seminars and meeting with current and new suppliers to gain insight on the new trends, Vince and Brenda plan to return with even more new ideas and options for the store and their customers.

Stop in today — you’ll be inspired!

Superior Vacuum & Sowen Quilt Shop 3 - 405 N. Service Rd. W. Swift Current, SK 306.773.0151 superiorvac@sasktel.net

FineLifestyles

Southwest

47

SPRING HOME FEATURE

Buy With Confidence from this Trusted Family-Run Store

By Trina Annand Photos Corla Rokochy

I

n most communities, it is often the locally-owned businesses that make the biggest impact. The Voth family has been a part of the landscape of southwest Saskatchewan’s business community since the 1950s. From its humble beginnings as a small hardware and heating store in Herbert, Voth’s BrandSource in Swift Current has become a modern incarnation of the frontier general store with a wide selection of items specially selected for their clients.

Two generations of the Voth family can be found at the business on a daily basis,

48

FineLifestyles

Southwest

providing a true family feel to the enterprise.

“We strive to provide the competitive pricing of big box stores while maintaining the feel of a small town business,” says Mark Voth. With a massive 10,000 sq. ft. store, Voth’s offers visitors a vast array of choices under one roof — including electronics from all major brands, appliances, furniture, mattresses, bedding and much more.

By offering such a wide selection, Voth’s is able to save their customers not only money, but time — something that is in short supply these days. “Using the buying power of the BrandSource network

of stores allows us to offer customers the best prices and products to pair with our unique brand of service,” says Lorne Voth.

Whether customers are looking for the latest technology from Samsung, Panasonic and Sony, options to keep them connected from the Sasktel Mobility Centre, or the beauty, quality and comfort of the La-Z-Boy brand, there is something for everyone at this establishment.

“We’ve designed our SaskTel area to be a store within a store; anything and everything is available for your communications needs.

We offer all the hot products and phones

SaskTel carries, including Apple products,” says Mark. “When someone buys an item from us, we treat them like family; you’ll always be taken care of when you shop here Expert service and product knowledge is another part of the Voth’s BrandSource difference. The company can even accommodate special orders if customers are looking for something not in stock. If a problem arises with a product, most items can be serviced in-store rather than waiting weeks for a shipped item to return. With no problem or purchase too big or small for the staff, clients can get tech support services, repairs, delivery and installation services to back up their purchases.

After more than 60 years, Voth’s BrandSource stays true to the heritage of

Back Row L-R Ellery Janz, Thom Voth, Mark Voth, Cindy Pleasance, Paul Figueiredo, Brent Molyneux FRont Row Alice Smith, Orabeth Johnston, Wendy Turner MISSInG Lorne Voth, Marie Brooks

their brand with service and family values that are second to none.

Mark adds, “We want everyone who shops here to leave confident with their purchase and with a smile on their face, maybe even a little excited to come back and shop here again.”

Voth’s BrandSource 306.773.4322 44 1st Avenue N.W. Swift Current www.voths.ca

FineLifestyles

Southwest

49

SPRING HOME FEATURE

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED with Hunter Douglas Blinds

Well-designed window fashions do more than simply cover a window.

At Hunter Douglas, form and function are inseparable. Great design is beautiful to live with, provides variable light control, insulates rooms against heat and cold while saving energy, protects your furnishings from damaging UV rays, and even absorbs sound, improving the acoustics in a room. Our advanced operating systems are a pleasure to use.

Privacy and Light Control Available in a variety of product designs with fabrics and materials, a range of opacities from sheer to opaque, offering varying degrees of privacy and light control options.

Child Safety From cordless manual and motorized operating systems, retractable lift cords, cord tensioners and wand controls, the wide array of innovative lifting system options operate easily and enhance child and pet safety.

Energy Efficiency Up to 50% of your home’s heating and cooling energy can be lost through windows. Hunter Douglas is an industry leader in making a big energy savings difference.

At CARPET ONE, we can come to your home to help with your entire window covering needs, complete with installation of your HUNTER DOUGLAS blinds.

To arrange an appointment, contact Rob Myers TEL.: 306.773.9330 or 306.741.7142 EMAIL: rmyers.carpetland@sasktel.net

Bringing the Outdoors In Add the room you've always wanted! We can custom design sun rooms to suit your home, including four-season sun rooms.

Locally owned and operated, we’ve served the Southwest for the past 26 years.

Free estimates provided. Stop by our office to start your plans today!

QUALITY GLASS & ALUMINUM LTD. 434 Cheadle St. W | 1.800.667.9515 | 306.773.4222 | qualityglass@sasktel.net

SPRING HOME FEATURE

52

FineLifestyles

Southwest

“THAT’S CONCRETE?” Stylish and Seamless Concrete for the Home

C

By Henny Buffinga

oncrete is a staple in the industrialized world — for roads, buildings and more.

Besides being a practical material for industrial work, concrete can also be a thing of beauty.

Based in Swift Current, Inora Concrete specializes in handcrafted decorative concrete for home and business. Owned

by Joel Laverdiere, the company creates kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, sinks, shower panels, fireplace surrounds, reception desks and more. With the ability to mold concrete into any shape, Inora Concrete can customize their creations into a seamless end product that will look great in your home.

Because it can be designed into almost any form, concrete is not bound to twodimensional surfaces like other materials.

Inora Concrete can create a one-of-akind bathroom vanity top with a sink molded right into it creating a seamless top, or incorporate a drain board into a kitchen countertop with a waterfall leg down to the floor. “Concrete has an inherent beauty that brings both style and functionality together,” says Laverdiere.

Concrete has made large advances in the last several decades, allowing it to become stronger, harder, less porous and even more flexible. The concrete used at Inora has very little in common with the average sidewalk. Although everything they build is essentially comprised from cement and sand, there are additives and techniques that make the finished pieces highly refined. And because of the concrete’s immense strength, it is possible to build larger and lighter, giving a vast number of design options to suit your personal liking. To further customize the concrete, Inora is also able to add recycled glass, shells or rocks.

more personalized and intensive than the usual pre-polished stone slab. After creating a template, the mold is built from scratch, the cement is mixed, then placed and left to cure under ideal conditions.

After it’s cured, it undergoes several finishing steps and is sealed before it is ready for installation.

Rather than being an inexpensive alternative, the process employed for each piece of concrete makes it comparable to quality granite and engineered stone.

“It’s like comparing a violin with a pallet,” Laverdiere explains. “They are both made from wood, but one has had far more time, thought and artistry involved in creating it.”

Before starting Inora, Laverdiere studied and trained under some of the best in the concrete industry. In 2011, he took a training seminar in North Carolina with Jeff Girard, an engineer and president of Concrete Countertop Institute, as well as a mold-making class with Tommy Cook. Both have been essential in his foundational knowledge of concrete and given him the ability to turn a concept in his mind into a uniquely crafted reality.

“There is something innately gratifying with the completion of each piece,” he says. “Seeing the concrete begin as something so workable and having it become a hardened piece of refined work is a reward that never gets old. But the most enjoyable part of the process is after the installation, when the client finally gets to see the finished product. The end result has almost everyone asking “That’s concrete?’ ”

The process required to create a concrete countertop or bathroom vanity is much

Inora Concrete 30 Alexander Drive, Swift Current 306.774.4984 www.inora.ca

OPPOSITE Photo by Marilyn Kuhlmann-Nimegeers BOTTOM LEFT Joel & Stacy Laverdiere FineLifestyles

Southwest

53

SPRING HOME FEATURE

NEW EXCITING OPTIONS for Home Insurance

It’s been said the most consistent thing in the insurance industry is that it is continually changing! In 2014 SGI Canada went above and beyond by introducing their new Prestige Home Pak which included some awesome coverage benefits.

Home Systems Protection (included in the Prestige Pak) provides coverage for repairs or replacement when home systems, equipment and major appliances break down suddenly and accidentally. This has become especially important as homes keep getting bigger and the systems within them more complex and expensive.

Now in 2015, SGI Canada has again introduced some exciting optional coverages. For a few dollars per month, you can add Home Systems Protection and/or Service Line Coverage to any of their Home, Mobile Home, Tenant, Condo, Agro Paks or rental property.

Home Systems Protection coverage includes physical damage resulting from sudden or accidental mechanical or electrical breakdown. It also applies to tearing apart, cracking, burning or bulging of a steam or hot water system, or an air conditioning system.

Examples of covered systems • • • • • • • • • • • •

Boilers, furnaces and heat pumps Hot water heaters (including solar) Radiant floor heating Central air conditioning Water purification and filtration Ventilating systems Well pumps, installed sump pumps Chair lifts and elevators Pool, spa or sauna equipment Home security monitoring and control devices Electrical service panels Solar/wind/geothermal heating or energy

Examples of covered personal property • • • • • • •

Kitchen and laundry appliances Home entertainment equipment Computers and wireless devices Power tools and shop equipment Lawn and garden equipment (excluding riding mowers) Mobile medical equipment Portable generators and sump pumps

Service Line Coverage Service Line Coverage includes repairs to underground pipes and wiring that bring water, power, data and communications to the home and other structures, when damage occurs on the homeowner’s property. There is a $10,000 limit on this coverage, subject to a minimum $1,000 deductible.

Coverage includes: • • • • •

Repair or replacement of damaged service line Excavation costs Expediting expenses Outdoor property damaged by repairs Living expenses if you have to live outside your house while repairs are being done

Stop in or contact the professionals at Dickson Agencies to discuss these exciting new coverages or to receive a free insurance assessment and competitive quote.

L-R Melanie Johnson, Brandi Bitz, Ashley Denis, Tiffany Christopher, Lyndsy Ford, Jessica Therrien, Kevin Sutter. MISSING: Omer Houde, Alisa Hudson, Lorrie Cloutier

Visit dicksonagencies.ca for all your online license issuing needs.

Dickson Agencies 105 Central Avenue North Swift Current 306.773.0624 www.dicksonagencies.ca

SPRING HOME FEATURE

New Building Materials Distribution Yard Open for Business!

Pioneer Co-op Swift Current announces the opening of our NEW Building Materials Distribution Yard in Swift Current.

Located just minutes from our Home Centre Mall location, this additional 30,000 sq. ft. is dedicated exclusively to bulk storage and building material sales. Increased demand from our membership has driven this needfor added inventory. Customers will see improved service and more efficient bulk commodity sales.

The following products are available for direct sale at this location, with all forms of sales payment offered: • • • • •

Dimensional Lumber Sheet Goods Treated Lumber Fence Posts Insulation

• • • • •

Exterior Doors Bulk Nails & Screws Rebar Concrete Goods Shingles & Accessories

PIONEER CO-OP BUILDING MATERIAL DISTRIBUTION YARD

2171 N Railway St. W, Swift Current 306.778.4425 | www.pioneercoop.ca

BETTER

OUTDOOR

LIVING

BACK ROW L - R Matt Crebas, Lyle Buzash, Mike Derar, Geof Crebas FRONT ROW L - R Joanne Grant, Don & Kelly Larwood (owners) Doug Grant

Attention Homeowners: Imagine a durable, versatile and attractive patio cover. One that delivers shade on hot days, protects your family from harmful UV rays and keeps your deck and outdoor furniture dry during a rainstorm. Suncoast Screen Enclosures will custom build your louvered roof as an addition to your home/business or as its own free-standing patio cover. Our built-in guttering system effectively channels away rain runoff to prevent flooding and structural damage. The louvers are operated by a hand-held remote which is charged by an efficient solar panel. Open the louvers slightly to increase ventilation, or a full 180 degrees allowing maximum sunlight into your home.

Suncoast Screen Enclosures offers a screened-in, outdoor area that allows you to enjoy your deck, pool, spa or patio without the sense of being enclosed in an indoor space.

New location! 3401 Pasqua St. Regina Come see us at the Regina Spring Home and Garden Show Booth # 728,729, 734 and 735

306.761.1801 | Toll Free 1.877.449.5106 www.suncoastenclosures.com | don@suncoastenclosures.com

Starting Your Plants

At Home

By Ken A. Beattie, NPD, Ph.D.

The garden’s neo-natal wards will be popping up all across the country over the next several weeks. Like so many other anxious gardeners, I am also disinfecting, mounting lights to rival even the most sophisticated “grow-op” and sorting through a rather sizeable container of “got-to-have” seed packs.

58

FineLifestyles

Southwest

T

here really is something inherently common among all gardeners: the absolute need to get a head start on things and get our private stash of special plants germinated. Germination and the maintenance thereafter can pose some difficulty for first timers, and there are a few tricks of the trade to observe.

Cleanliness can’t be emphasized enough; lack of sterile or extremely clean conditions has been the cause of many a lost crop. I prefer to use brand-new containers that I further wipe down with a germicidal moist wipe that would be used in the home just to ensure a sterile area. If you are reusing seeding containers, soak and scrub them in warm, soapy water, rinse with clear water and then dip in a 1:10 solution of household bleach and water or use a moist anti-bacterial wipe

for the final touch. The seeding mix itself will be sterile, so there is no need to re-cook it.

Many older garden references, including a couple of my books, suggest a method of home sterilizing media. I would not attempt this now as seedling mixes are common and easy to find. Take care to select a “seeding mix”; they are quite different from standard potting mixes. They are typically light, finetextured, almost dust-like and especially formulated for the rigours of the neonatal plant ward. A very good piece of equipment is a sieve — either homemade from screening, a culinary variety or one designed for the plant lover.

One of the most useful tricks is the method of watering the seeding bed.

Before that, however, we need to get the germination bed ready. I like to use a pan, which is a squat plastic container with a wide mouth, often referred to as a bulb pan. The seeding mix is poured in and tamped down to ensure there are no air pockets. You can use another clean pan to press the media down; this provides a smooth seeding surface.

Smooth is important so that finer seeds can be seen; this helps to avoid oversowing and crowding.

Open the seed packet and fold a crease in one end, forming a sort of spout.

Aiming your seed packet, lightly tap your holding hand; this graduates the seed flow. Always undersow; never clump and try to fill the container, or this will cause no end of problems later on. Now for the cool watering part! Fill a shallow baking pan with warm water and set the seeding pan in slowly. The seeding pan’s dry media will slowly take up the

warm water and moisten the entire container without disturbing the newlysown seeds. Once you are convinced the media is moist, remove from the watering pan and sift a very little bit of dry seeding media over the seeding pan to cover the seeds. The dry media will absorb the perfect amount of moisture from the pan without further work. Most seeds should be covered.

It is wise to cover the seeding pan with plastic wrap or a glass sheet; this will keep the humidity at the appropriate level.

Warm conditions are best, so if there is room on top of an appliance such as the refrigerator, set your new seeding pans there until germination occurs. Once the seedlings appear, it’s best to remove the plastic wrap gradually and move the pan into indirect light. Germinating seeds do not require light until they have emerged.

Stretching is one of the most common errors post-germination because of lower light conditions. If you are planning to place your crop under artificial light, the adjustable tubes should only be a few inches from the tops of the plants.

Fungal problems are common this early in the seedling’s life, so apply a light dusting of cinnamon or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) as a preventative and increase the air circulation around your tender crop.

Naturally, increased air flow translates to drier media, so watch the watering.

I strongly suggest bottom watering as suggested for the first saturation.

Good luck and “almost” spring!

welcome

to

Ken Beattie is the Horticultural Education Manager with the prestigious Canadian Wildlife Federation.

FineLifestyles

Southwest

59

PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS IN THE VIRTUAL WORLD

By Brook Thalgott

Today, businesses face far more risks than in the past, such as business interruption, cash flow and liquidity, reputation, regulatory changes and weak economic climate. Now, businesses face another growing threat — cyber risk. No company, no matter how big, is immune to issues from the virtual world. Just ask Sony Pictures and Target. Both suffered massive security breaches that affected both customers and employees alike. In today’s connected world, businesses must be aware of the risks posed in cyberspace, and how to protect against threats.

60

FineLifestyles

Southwest

A

ccording to the Globe and Mail, cyber attacks have already hit more than one third of Canadian businesses. Gaining access via anything connected to the Internet, these well-funded and sophisticated criminal enterprises will attack businesses of any size and cause serious damage. Because the risk is constantly evolving, and the legal system is usually playing catch-up to technology, businesses have to protect themselves from all angles. With smaller businesses (less than 100 people) often the target, it really isn’t the massive multinationals alone that need to worry. While cyber risk insurance can help, it’s not the only piece of the puzzle. Cyber risk needs to be addressed across the whole business.

An enterprise cyber risk management strategy is a must for any business these days, and senior management needs to be front and centre in planning and implementation. Where the IT department was the gatekeeper, now the whole business needs to be aware of the risks presented by cyber crime. First, businesses need to address what exactly is at risk from cyber attacks. It may be customer information, proprietary information on products or services, or communications between employees. The big question to ask is what will a hacker find valuable if they get in?

The risk isn’t just financial — it’s reputational. When Sony Pictures

was hacked in 2014, they not only lost money over the release of the film The Interview, they also suffered serious reputational damage by the leak of sensitive emails between senior executives.

Businesses must ask what needs to be protected and why.

It’s not just senior management that needs to be involved in the development of a cyber risk strategy. A strategy should assess the current plan and practices and where improvements are needed, determine a monitoring process and what the procedures are if attacked. From the top down, the whole organization plays a part in keeping the business protected. Employees need to be educated about their responsibilities in minimizing risk, with a robust policy and compliance guidelines. Internal and external networks need to be assessed on an ongoing basis, with full knowledge of who has access to what and where everything is located. A well-planned and executed cyber risk strategy will help your business become cyber resilient.

As the world becomes more and more connected, the opportunities for businesses grow — as do the risks. While we’re often prepared for the traditional business threats, we may neglect the ones that come from our connectivity. However, with a robust, well-planned and executed strategy, cyberspace risks can be mitigated.

FineLifestyles

Southwest

61

F

or nearly a century, Bavarian Motor Works (BMW) has been creating mechanical marvels that turn heads by combining both beauty and power in an understated way.

After expanding into North America with specialized factories, BMW has garnered itself a powerful celebrity following with drivers including the likes of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, Gerard Butler, Anne Hathaway and Katy Perry. The automaker has shown an uncanny knack for filling errant segments of the automobile market, propelling their brand — and the entire industry — into a brave new world of innovation in design and technology.

Always at the forefront of expertise and style, BMW unveiled a unique concept for the future at the 2014 Beijing

62

FineLifestyles

Southwest

International Automotive Exhibition. The BMW Vision Future Luxury is a Series 9 concept car that is a true departure from the company’s signature look — part batmobile and part luxury aircraft (or even spacecraft) inside.

“The design of the BMW Vision Future Luxury is the messenger of our philosophy of modern luxury, one in which innovative technologies play a key and vital role. These innovations deliver a new, multifaceted luxury experience that spans intelligent lightweight engineering, innovative interior design and a radically new user interface design,” says Karim Habib, head of BMW design. Every element of the car is created to provide the ultimate driving experience with cutting edge aesthetics, resulting in a sleek, almost British-inspired

attention to detail. Touch screens, fewer buttons, a large heads-up display, supple leathers, natural woods, BMW Laserlights and organic LEDs provide a feast for the senses.

One of the car maker’s most impressive recent technological advances is the BMW Laserlight headlight system, a clear shift from their signature twin rounded headlights with a narrower design. Ten times brighter than traditional headlights, these new lights harness the power of laser technology using 30 per cent less energy; this translates to a doubled sight range at nearly 2,000 feet of visibility.

The highly focused beam also reduces glare during nighttime driving. Paired with BMW’s active headlight technology, the car uses GPS to intelligently light the

BMW’s Brave New World

By Trina Annand

curves ahead even before the driver turns the wheel. The head lamps have already been released as a standard feature on BMW’s signature hybrid i8, and experts are forecasting the technology will soon trickle down through the entire fleet in years to come.

Since its inception, the BMW brand has captured the imagination of drivers seeking the freedom of the open road. Now, that very same brand is redefining the act of driving to make it a more interactive and intuitive process.

Engaging the driver and passengers in a whole new way seems to be the driving force behind the company’s expansion.

With the startling technological leaps made in the last century, the sky may be the limit for this automaker.

FineLifestyles

Southwest

63

TOWN OF SHAUNAVON FEATURE

Family-Friendly & Thriving

By Courtney Tait Photos courtesy Town of Shaunavon

T

hough the nickname “Boomtown” was given to Shaunavon in 1914 — after its population exceeded 700 and it earned official town status — a range of new developments in the last few years have shown the southwest Saskatchewan community continues to boom, more than a century later.

For Shaunavon’s 2,500 residents, advances in housing, medical care, recreational facilities and the hospitality sectors have transformed it into a regional centre, providing everything for

64

FineLifestyles

Southwest

exceptional quality of life. Mayor Sharon Dickie says, “We are always trying to enhance the town and make it better.”

resurfacing the town’s arteries. “That’s an indication of economic prosperity in the community,” she says.

A HISTORY OF RESOURCES While Shaunavon’s first boom occurred with the agriculture industry, the discovery of oil in the 1950s created more growth. Today, Crescent Point Energy is the primary oil company in the area. Mayor Dickie, who has been in office for 15 years, says Shaunavon has always prioritized putting benefits of the area’s oil back into the town’s infrastructure. In the last two years, $1 million has gone into paving and

HOUSING AND RECREATION As the town’s population increases, new housing options are essential. Two new residential developments opened in 2014: Benchview Subdivision and Prairie Sky Estates, an upscale three-storey adult living condo project.

An exciting recent development is the Crescent Point Wickenheiser Centre. Built in 2012, the facility is named for both its largest sponsor, Crescent Point Energy

Mayor Sharon Dickie

Corp., and Olympian Hayley Wickenheiser, who hails from Shaunavon and is considered the world’s greatest female ice hockey player. The facility features a skating rink, four-sheet curling rink, meeting rooms, lounge and concession.

Shaunavon residents also enjoy a golf course, gym, three major parks, and a skate park and play area that adjoins the town’s swimming pool. An outdoor skating rink is set for completion in spring 2015. The town’s devotion to athletics has given rise to several prominent figures in professional sports, including Philadelphia Flyers defenceman, Braydon Colburn, who has a street named after him in the community.

HEALTH AND HOSPITALITY As the second community in the province to implement the primary health care model, the town offers a range of health care services through a team of health care professionals in one central location at the Shaunavon Union Hospital.

An excellent base for visitors, Shaunavon sits close to some of the province’s best natural attractions: the T.rex Discovery Centre in Eastend, Frenchman River Valley, Grasslands National Park and Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

Canalta Hotel recently opened in response to the demand from oilindustry crews and tourists.

WELCOMING NEWCOMERS As volunteers with Shaunavon’s Chamber of Commerce Welcome Committee, Helen Fauchon and Florence Selvit, welcome many newcomers. “The response is awesome,” says Helen. “People are so grateful because they may be searching for where to go and who to contact, and are thrilled they are receiving a welcome call.” Adds Florence: “We want people to get a good impression of Shaunavon and its friendliness.”

Mayor Dickie emphasizes recent development have been on family. “We really try to invest in family and kids in the community. Our goal is to make Shaunavon the best community we can.”

FineLifestyles

Southwest

65

TOWN OF SHAUNAVON FEATURE

Community Pride is Strong in Shaunavon

By Melanie Furlong Photos courtesy Town of Shaunavon

T

he vibrant community of Shaunavon takes pride in its people, especially the volunteer firefighters who work diligently to protect the town throughout the year. Last year, the Town of Shaunavon expressed its appreciation by hosting an evening recognition dinner for the fire departments from its own community and that of neighbouring Eastend. “Our communities have such dedicated men and women who are always ready to protect us. We are forever grateful!” says Mayor Sharon Dickie.

The volunteer firefighters are just one of the town’s many assets. Dickie says the high quality of life, thriving businesses and close-knit community have attracted many people and she believes the community will continue to grow and prosper.

That’s why the town has recently opened up 13 lots for sale in the new Benchview subdivision. The rectangular and irregular large lots are available immediately.

Sewer and water are in place as well as street paving and curbs. The Town is encouraging growth by making these lots

affordable, with a three year tax incentive.

Benchview will have a total of 41 lots offering gorgeous views of the southwest Saskatchewan landscape.

With a population hovering around 2,000plus and located more than an hour from Swift Current and three-and-a-half hours from Regina, Shaunavon is completely self-contained, offering all the amenities a community needs. Dickie maintains there’s nothing you have to leave town for.

Its business sector is strong and includes a range of professional services such as

ABOVE Shaunavon & Eastend Volunteer Fire Departments

66

FineLifestyles

Southwest

lawyers, doctors, nurse practitioners, dentists, accountants and more.

The community has grown significantly in the last five to six years, mostly due to increased oil activity. Many service companies have brought their businesses and the industrial park has been expanded to accommodate this growth.

“This is a good indicator for us,” says Dickie. “We want people to bring their businesses and their families.”

Shaunavon has a variety of recreational facilities and amenities for families, including three schools, a hospital and a swimming pool. The new Crescent Point Wickenheiser Centre features a curling rink, an Olympic-sized hockey surface and a convention centre, used 12 months of the year. A community skate park has also recently been completed on the site of the town’s former arena,

thanks to the generosity of some of the area’s businesses and fundraising efforts; it’s one of many green spaces and parks in town. Fundraising for a downtown amphitheater is also ongoing.

Dickie, who has served on town council for 21 years (15 of them as mayor) has seen many young entrepreneurs create their own success. She credits them with committing themselves to the community and the support the community has given to them.

“There’s such a sense of pride in this community,” says Dickie. “We’ve had a lot of success stories come from here. We do our best to do everything well. This community is not afraid of volunteerism and that’s what makes Shaunavon strong.”

Town of Shaunavon (EDC) www.shaunavon.com

TOP–BOTTOM The town’s restaurants offer fine food. Quality accommodation is available. Great leisure opportunities abound.

FineLifestyles

Southwest

67

TOWN OF SHAUNAVON FEATURE

LOCALLY MADE & RAISED PRODUCTS

• Patsy’s Preserves: 25 different products including jams, jellies, various types of pickles, pies, salsa, antipasto • 20+ types of fresh and smoked sausage and pepperoni sticks • Manley homemade baking twice weekly • 5 types of bacon • Homemade meals to go • Design your own meat packs to meet your budget • Gift baskets and meat trays for special occasions • Specialty cheeses, BBQ sauces, chips and crackers • 15+ varieties of seafood • Pet treats We use LOCAL beef, bison, pork, lamb, chicken & turkeys ABOVE BACK ROW L-R Vince Stevenson, Ulysses Yodong, Darrell Morvik, Jamie Mercer, Ben Ham, Noel Entem FRONT ROW L-R Patsy Entem, Lisa Little, Sandy Yodong, Shay Hunter

CUSTOM

Slaughter, Cutting & Wrapping

RANCHHOUSE EST. 1912

306.297.4050

473 Centre Street, Shaunavon www.ranchmeats.ca |

RANCH

The all new 2015

Chevrolet Colorado

has arrived!

Motor trend

Truck of the Year®

2015

At Silver Sage Chev, we know you appreciate a great value and that your time is of great value... so if you're value shopping, don't forget how close to home Shaunavon is. Save time when purchasing and when you need service. Shop Shaunavon and save money. We're not into who the “king” of this is or the “queen” of that. We're normal folks just like you. No gimmicks, no grand schemes — just good value from your local neighbours. Silver Sage Chev is the SOUTHWEST’S GM dealership.

The all new 2015 Chevrolet Colorado – Motor Trend Magazine’s 2015 Truck of the Year has arrived! Colorado is reinventing the midsize pickup from the frame up. It starts with the latest technology. From an available high-speed 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection to available advanced safety features like Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning, this is one smart small truck. Under the hood is an available 3.6L V6 that offers best-in-class fuel economy.

But don’t let the efficiency fool you — the same V6 also provides available best-in-class towing and payload. With a sleek design and quiet, refined interior, Colorado might feel like an upscale sedan, but it’s all truck. Couple that with our impressive and proven steel design full sized & H.D. trucks, and you’ll clearly see choosing a Chevrolet truck from Silver Sage Chev is the obvious and smart choice.

Visit us on the web at www.silversagechev.ca, call toll free 1.866.779.0555, or stop by at the dealership at 320 Highway 37 North, Shaunavon, SK. The shortest drive to save is only to Shaunavon!

320 Highway 37 North, Shaunavon 1.866.779.0555 | 306.297.2772 www.silversagechev.ca

TOWN OF SHAUNAVON FEATURE

We personally select top quality diamonds to suit YOUR budget

NOW featURiNg embee Diamonds — superb diamonds cut and polished in Saskatchewan.

We specialize in Canadian diamonds.

370 Centre St, Shaunavon | 306.297.2385 andersboda@sasktel.net | andersboda.ca

andersboda home of fine jewellery and gifts

AVAILABLE AT:

Largest Independent Clothing Store in Southwest Saskatchewan

FDJ.CA

Jöz Clöz

|

299 Center St., Shaunavon

| 306.297.2434

TOWN OF SHAUNAVON FEATURE

y e l l Where it’s All About the Party!

A OoPs SY EA

Alley Oops Fun and Games

Bowling is a blast!

Parties are made

The local “fun spot” where you’re guaranteed fun and games. Recent major upgrades include computer scoring, synthetic lanes, new shoes, TouchTunes jukebox and an expanded snack bar with pizza. The love of the game (5 pin bowling, a Canadian Heritage sport) is revitalized with computer scoring and even more fun!

It’s the only sport the whole family can play while enjoying a beverage and yummy appetizers. There’s no benchwarming; everyone gets to play! YBC youth bowling is a great way to have fun, meet new kids and learn some good life skills. Leagues are available for all ages.

Call, book and show up! Bring a cake if you wish (no nuts please).

Everything else is supplied. Every child leaves with a balloon and smiles. We’ve hosted birthday parties for 3-year-olds up to 88 years and catered company functions for 50 people. Call ahead 306.297.BOWL (2695) or text Barb 306.294.7976.

PLAY-EAT-DRINK-REPEAT! WINTER & SPRING HOURS

Monday & Tuesday by appointment, Wednesday 6-9 p.m., Thursday 1-10 p.m., Friday 2-10 p.m., Saturday 11-5 p.m. & 6-10 p.m., Sunday 2- 5 p.m. & 6-10 p.m.

Open 7 days a week with advance booking and open late when busy. We close 45 minutes early on slow nights so please call ahead.

ALLEY OOPS FUN & GAMES

129 3rd Ave East, Shaunavon (across from the Post Office) 306.297.BOWL (2695) | www.alleyoopsbowling.ca Alley OoPs Fun & Games Where it is all about the Party A member of the CHDA Cypress Hills Destination Area. www.visitcypresshills.ca

TOWN OF ASSINIBOIA FEATURE

Discover Your

" HIDDEN

TREASURE"

Looking for the perfect outfit for that special occasion or a comfortable pair of good quality jeans? Since 2010, Teresa has carried top quality clothing for women from XS to 3X, girls’ sizes, and children’s sizes infant and up.

Tessa's Trendz has an amazing selection to choose from. Their stunning purses and unique jewellery pieces are the perfect accessory to complete your look. Your hidden treasure awaits you here!

T e s s a’s T r e n d z

Tessa’s Trendz 333 Centre St, Assiniboia 306.642.5535

TOWN OF ASSINIBOIA FEATURE

74

FineLifestyles

Southwest

ASSINIBOIA:

Heart of the Golden South

By Rebecca Henderson

C

alled the “Heart of the Golden South,” the Town of Assiniboia sits near the International Boundary and within two hours of many of Saskatchewan’s major centres. Home to approximately 3,000 people, Assiniboia offers everything that make it a great place to call home.

Located within the Five Hills Health Region, Assiniboia boasts a wide variety of community services. Alongside a local hospital that includes an emergency department , a medical laboratory and X-ray facilities, the town has five family physicians, dentists, optometrists, pharmacy services and a chiropractor to look after residents.

Protection for Assiniboia citizens and meeting their needs in case of emergency is important. A fully staffed RCMP detachment, hutch ambulance service and a well-trained volunteer fire department deliver top-notch protective services to the community.

The community also has 60 long-term care units, a 50-room personal care home for seniors and a daycare, as well as pre-kindergarten to high school and the Southeast Regional College.

So, what is there to do in Assiniboia?

“Pretty much everything!” exclaims Mayor Bob Himbeault. There is a myriad of activities for all ages, including sports, arts and culture and service clubs. Having fun at the new playground, skating around at the Civic Centre or taking a splash in the outdoor pool next to the regional campground are just a few of the everyday activities you’ll find people enjoying.

Located in the heart of some of Saskatchewan’s richest farmland, Assiniboia serves the agriculture industry through three major implement dealers,

four-grain terminals, a manufacturer of harvesting aid attachments and chemical supply companies. The Assiniboia Livestock Auction was also the first in Canada to feed and water cattle before sale time — providing an exceptional service and humane handling.

While agriculture is Assiniboia’s main industry, the town’s wide main street offers a variety of retail shops, eateries, personal health services and the quaint Central Park. Just off Centre Street is the majestic Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreation Centre — located across from the charming Shurniak Art Gallery.

“The past two years have been very exciting for me, Council and our town,” says Himbeault. “With the openings of the new CanAlta Hotel and the 121 Steakhouse motel addition, the new Southland Co-op Home Centre, new Nelson GM Dealership building, Assiniboia Bakery and Slice Athletic Wear — our overall business community is expanding.”

“We are proud of our active, longstanding Assiniboia Civic Improvement Association who have fundraised and constructed the outdoor pool, Agriplex and the Prince of Wales Culture and Recreation Centre. Their current project is a new arena,” he adds. “We are continuing to see development with an annual average of two million dollars in residential permit values and 10 million dollars in permit values over the past four years in commercial and industrial investment.”

Assiniboia is a comfortable and caring place for all who live there or visit.

“There’s a community spirit happening here that we’re very proud of. It’s why we’re called Heart of the Golden South,” concludes Himbeault.

TOP Chili lunch in Central Park (courtesy of the Assiniboia Times) BOTTOM L-R Kids day in the park (courtesy of Assiniboia Times), Shurniak Art Gallery (courtesy of Shurniak Art Gallery), Prince of Wales Culture and Recreation Centre (courtesy of the Town of Assiniboia) FineLifestyles

Southwest

75

TOWN OF ASSINIBOIA FEATURE

THRIVING IN ASSINIBOIA — Bustling Town with a Prairie Heart Photos Hali Booth

A

ssiniboia “curled up a storm” this winter when it hosted the 2015 Viterra Scotties Tournament of Hearts Provincial Women’s Championship.

According to CURLSASK president Brian Hill, Assiniboia was an obvious choice for the organization. “Assiniboia continues to be a strong contributor to the Saskatchewan curling community,” says Hill.

An annual curling event hosted by CURLSASK, the event was held from January 21 to 25 at the Assiniboia Curling Club located in the Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreation Centre.

This impressive facility houses more than a curling rink; there is also the Olympia Movie Theatre, Assiniboia & District Library, fitness center, kitchen facilities and the Conexus Auditorium/Gymnasium.

Whatever the event or season, a variety of attractions keep residents and visitors

76

FineLifestyles

Southwest

busy in Assiniboia. The Shurniak Art Gallery — named after Bill Shurniak who became one of the most recognizable names in the world for banking — is a special gem. “His career in banking began here,” says Mayor Bob Himbeault, “and during his travels, he was an avid art collector and eventually wanted to share it. So, he chose to share it here.”

Further town attractions include the Museum and Tourism Information Centre with The Prentice African Safari Exhibit. It holds an amazing collection of wild and exotic mounted animals, as well as the classic car collection.

Assiniboia is a hub of activity throughout the year. The Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce hosts the Ethnic Jubilee; a cultural event held in the fall, it showcases the cultural diversity of the area, emphasizing food, entertainment and various activities. The Assiniboia & District Arts Council brings in several concert performances and artistic displays.

July 1 brings numerous Canada Day activities, including the Demo Derby — an event that will have participants revving their motors — and, of course, fireworks at dusk.

The town is immersed in its natural prairie roots year-round. In the fall, there’s upland bird, waterfowl and big game hunting.

Winter offers skating, curling or catching a hockey game. Summer fun includes playing a round of golf, taking a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or sitting around the campfire with family and friends.

The town also acts as the gateway to the infamous Big Muddy Badlands and Grasslands National Park. Himbeault adds proudly, “Local and regional tourism plays a significant role in our diverse economic makeup.”

With its central location and welcoming community of approximately 3,000 residents, Assiniboia is truly the “Heart of the Golden South.” They hope to see you soon! www.assiniboia.net

Assiniboia has more than 100 hotel and motel rooms and several meeting rooms — making it the perfect place to host conventions, sports tournaments and family gatherings. The town’s business sector offers a range of visitor services, including major banks and a credit union, great shopping and delicious fare at its various restaurants.

FineLifestyles

Southwest

77

TOWN OF ASSINIBOIA FEATURE

Delight in Every Bite

at Assiniboia Bakery

By Rebecca Henderson Photos Chantel Taylor

W

hether it was the homemade donuts, cupcakes, pies, cookies, breads or buns lined up behind the large glass cases, the community of Assiniboia missed the delectable baked goods at Assiniboia Bakery after an unfortunate accident blew the roof off the building two years ago. “No one was hurt — thankfully, but we were closed for a year,” says Ambrose.

Out of the ashes emerged the phoenix.

Ambrose — who’d worked at the bakery under the guidance of his parents since he was 13 years old — rebuilt the

78

FineLifestyles

Southwest

bakery, successfully creating a place where residents and tourists can stop in and enjoy a homemade meal or snack.

A beautiful seating area filled with dark wooden tables and leather chairs beckons customers to sit back and relax, while counter seating allows customers to enjoy a quick bite to eat.

people as far as the Maritimes hear about us,” says Ambrose proudly. “A couple from Nova Scotia stopped in while they were travelling through and made sure to stop in on their way back, too.”

“Everyone had a treat they missed and came back for,” says owner John Ambrose of the bakery, which has been a staple in the community since the 1950s.

Whether it’s the gourmet salads, chili, pizza, paninis or sandwiches, many of the items are made from scratch with highest quality ingredients. “We don’t have a standard menu,” explains Ambrose, who works with the Sysco Company to develop new and exciting recipes every day.

The popularity of the bakery is apparent; Ambrose says it is not unusual to have a line-up from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “We’ve had

The most popular menu item? “The donuts,” says Ambrose proudly. “The donuts are our own mix and a natural

bread pastry.” The Boston Cream and the sugared Bismark, which is a jam-filled donut, are favourites among the regulars and made fresh to order every day.

“People understand the quality of what they’re paying for,” says Ambrose.

While Ambrose seems quite at home covered in flour these days, it wasn’t always this way. He almost left the bakery behind to pursue a career in teaching. “I was the youngest of four and grew up with bakery,” says Ambrose. “But as I grew up, I wanted something different.”

After attending the University of Regina, Ambrose received his Standard A Teaching certificate, and began substitute teaching. “However, it was in the cards,” says Ambrose who ended up settling in Assiniboia to take over the bakery from his parents. “Every day is a challenge,” says Ambrose, “but I’ve grown to love it.”

Made from scratch, baked fresh and simply delicious, the food at Assiniboia Bakery delights every taste bud. Experience a little bliss in every bite today.

Assiniboia Bakery 339 Centre St. Assiniboia 306.642.8175 L-R Quinn Voldeng, Holly Stahn, John Ambrose, Shelley Ambrose, Coralie Fletcher, Jo Ann Champigney, Dot Ambrose. Missing Wayne Sveinson, and Shaelyn Juell FineLifestyles

Southwest

79

TOWN OF ASSINIBOIA FEATURE

Get Your New Look Going!

We're a full-service hair salon catering to men, women and children of all ages.

• Cutting and Styling • Sets • Colours and Highlights • Perms We offer additional services to help you look and feel your best.

• Waxing • Hot Shaves for Men • Ear Piercing Hours • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

• Wednesday, 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.

• Saturday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

We're located in the heart of Assiniboia.

Call us today and get your new look going!

HAIR QUARTERS

324 Centre Street, Assiniboia 306.642.4149 TOP L-R Caitlin Lethbrigde, Bev Pennington, Nika Lewis, Carla Crosbie

UPGRADE YOUR “RIDE” and

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

Nelson GM & RV is a full-service Chevrolet, Buick and GMC dealer. Our company was founded in 1959 on the principles of providing exceptional individualized service to our customers.

Going the extra mile for our customers is the norm, not the exception!

Our dealership has a huge selection of new and used automobiles and RVs, along with the parts and service specialists to take care of them. Come in today to experience the difference!

Nelson GM & RV Assiniboia 306.640.7277

ENVISIONING A PROGRESSIVE FUTURE FOR ASSINIBOIA Proposed new residential subdivision Harvest Edge Estates offers unique and spacious lots in a tranquil neighbourhood PHASE 1

MONEO DEVELOPMENT CORP. Todd & Jackie Moneo Ph: 306.642.3995 Ph: 306.640.7424 tmoneo@sasktel.net

Stunning Plants to Beautify Your Home & Yard • Locally grown plants • Large selection of trees, shrubs, and fruits trees • Hanging baskets, planters, perennials and annuals • In-stock garden decor and pots • Custom planting for pots • Locally owned and operated for 10 years

Prairie rose Greenhouse

404 Main Street, Kindersley 306.463.4716 /prairie rose greenhouse

Finding Home

Shannon Runcie, REALTOR速 306.741.6474 shannon.runcie@gmail.com