Modern Luxuria Vol 38 JULY 2023

Beauty is

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

Elsa Amorim

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Twyla Campbell

MANAGING EDITOR

Beryl Bacchus

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Brandy Belitsky

COPY EDITOR

Lucie Oosterveld

CONTRIBUTORS

Brandy Belitsky

Mona Rose Butler

Twyla Campbell

Jessica Fleming

Marcia J. Hamm

Noel Hendrickson

ROAM Creative

Steven Hope

Shannon Martin

Francesca Roznicki

Lukasz Warzecha

Emily Welz

Modern Luxuria is a digital magazine and is published monthly.

For subscription inquiries email: hello@modernluxuria.com

No part of this magazine, including text, photographs, illustrations, advertising layouts or other graphics may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the publisher. Modern Luxuria Magazine is not responsible for loss, damage or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork (including but not limited to drawings, photographs, or transparencies) or any unsolicited material. By accepting and publishing advertisements, Modern Luxuria Magazine is in no way endorsing or guaranteeing the quality of service or product with those advertisements.

Thank you

Photography by Lukasz Warzecha

PUBLISHED BY MODERN LUXURIA LTD.

Twyla Campbell is a freelance writer, author, and the former food columnist for CBC radio (Edmonton). She is a seasoned traveller who seeks unique destinations both local and abroad. A proud supporter of Canadian wine and sustainable food producers, Twyla is a regularly sought food panelist and judge for culinary competitions in Canada.

Beryl Bacchus has had an extensive career with over 20 years in the fashion, events and entertainment worlds. Spending time in Montreal, Toronto and New York, she moved to Edmonton just over a decade ago and is excited to bring her passion for community to Modern Luxuria Magazine and help showcase the talent and vibrancy of Edmonton from a fresh perspective.

Beryl Bacchus Managing Editor

Twyla Campbell Executive Editor

Contributors

Jessica Fleming (she/her) is an Edmonton-based freelance writer and singer/songwriter with an endless passion for the arts. Active in various music and art scenes throughout the years, she is a lifelong performer and artist. Jessica is devoted to finding the magic within daily life, community and connection, and expressing it through writing.

Francesca Roznicki is a creative entrepreneur and busy mom of two boys. Always passionate about interior design, she has worked exclusively within the interior design and home building industry in Edmonton. When she isn't busy shuffling kids to sports practice and writing for her clients, she's scouring the local real estate listings and diving into decor magazines with a piping hot Americano.

Mona Rose Butler, originally from Vancouver, brings with her to Edmonton a background in lifestyle writing within the luxury realm. When not working or training for her next strongman competition, she can be found exploring the restaurants and coffee shops of Edmonton or taking her dog, Pixel, on adventures.

Marcia J. Hamm is a lover of all things wine, but is especially passionate about Italy's native grape varieties. She is a WSET diploma holder, an Italian Wine Scholar and one of only 15 Italian Wine Experts In the world through the Vinitaly international Academy (VIA). Marcia also loves to sing, ride her bicycle, have dinner parties and relax on the patio.

Steven Hope Is an award winning creative, working in commercials and film around the world. He often uses minimalism in his work, allowing the concept to stand alone.

Brandy Belitsky is a mom, wife, graphic designer, photographer, writer, and singer. Her passion for art and design has kept her busy in both the working world and in play. If she's not working, she's probably spending time with her family, creating something, singing, or cooking something up in the kitchen.

Welcome to the radiant month of July, where the sun shines brighter, the days grow longer, and the spirit of summer envelops us in its warm embrace.

Publisher's Note

If you are a loyal reader of Modern Luxuria, you may have noticed that things look a little different on this page this month. Today, I'm full of gratitude as we bid a fond farewell to Jelena Bojic, who is taking a step down as our remarkable Editor in Chief. Jelena's invaluable contributions have shaped our publication, and although she is taking a step back, I'm thrilled to announce that she will continue to make contributions on future editions. While on the topic of changes, we are also welcoming our long time contributor, Twyla Campbell, on board as the Executive Editor.

As founder and publisher, I am honoured to take the reins and assume the responsibility of delivering the luxury content that has come to define Modern Luxuria Magazine.

Our July edition features a delightful collection of articles that capture the essence of summer. In our profile spotlight, we interview Chris McLeod, the Vice President of Marketing & Communications at Edmonton Global. Chris tells us about his aspirations for community growth, uncovers his favourite hot spots and travel destinations, and delves into the luxuries that bring him joy.

Prepare to be inspired by our fashion section, where we present an exclusive interview with Jill Bunting, the deserving winner of our Most Fashionable contest.

PHOTO BY TATYANA SEMENOVA

Join us as she unravels her style secrets and takes us on a whimsical journey through her fashion-forward world.

For watercraft enthusiasts, our July feature showcases the impressive Yamaha 2023 FX Cruiser SVHO. Discover the power and elegance of this remarkable craft, perfect for indulging in luxurious summer adventures.

Embrace the mouthwatering aroma of food cooked over fire as we bring you the story of the beloved Pitt County BBQ in our cuisine feature. Join us in celebrating the art of grilling and savouring the delectable flavors that define this glorious barbecue season.

Our Arts & Culture feature invites you to immerse

yourself in the vibrant world of Bay 1 Gallery. This artistic haven nurtures talent and creativity, offering a unique cultural experience that will leave you inspired and captivated.

Lastly, our travel section beckons you to the breathtaking beauty of Banff and Lake Louise, cherished destinations for awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable summer experiences.

As we embark on this sun-kissed summer edition, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support of Modern Luxuria Magazine. Your continued readership fuels our growth and evolution.

Wishing you a summer of pure delight,

– Elsa

Economic Growth Through Community Engagement

Chris McLeod is committed to growing the economy in a city he loves

WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN HOPE

Within minutes of speaking to Chris McLeod, it is clear that community is at the heart of everything he does. Born in Red Deer, he moved with his family to Lethbridge, and eventually settled in St. Albert, where he still lives today. An avid volunteer, community engagement specialist, and proud Albertan, Chris aims to bring more economic investment to the Edmonton region. His goal is to show off the good things Edmontonians are doing and the potential they are capable of when they band together to make big things happen.

We spoke to Chris about his community growth goals, his favourite hot spots and travel destinations, and his non-negotiable luxuries in life.

Edmonton Global is a really exciting place to be— not just because your brain is unleashed and you're learning new things everyday, but because there is this level of responsibility that you’re trying to deliver on.

You’ve had a few roles that have been community focused. Tell us a bit about your career path and how you ended up at Edmonton Global.

I graduated from the University of Alberta with an undergrad in Political Science, and I also have an MBA from Athabasca University. My first career was actually with the City of Edmonton. I ran Edmonton’s Millenium in 2000 and Edmonton's Centennial in 2004, and both of those were major projects about city building and community building. We worked with many small and large organizations to put on hundreds of events, build parks, and even build Churchill Square. These projects were all about building community and thinking about the future of the city.

I did a few projects outside of the City of Edmonton and I worked with Athabasca University to really, again, build community, but on a student level.

When I saw the Edmonton Global role, I thought it was a good opportunity to use that early work from university in political science, as well as city and community building, to move to a more global focus in a local market.

When I was brought on by Edmonton Global in January of 2019 as Vice-President, Global Marketing & Communications, I was only employee number 4! It was brand new. The purpose of Edmonton Global is to radically transform and grow the economy of the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. These are not

small increments of change; they’re big leaps, bold thinking, crazy ideas to really try to make things happen and get the attention of the world.

Our team co-hosted and ran two years of the Canadian Hydrogen Convention. We had more than 70 countries and 8,000 attendees this last year. This was an idea that we developed to try to get the Edmonton region on the global map in terms of this emerging hydrogen economy.

If you’re going to invest or want to learn more about what's happening with hydrogen, the most forward-looking place in the world really is the Edmonton region, and it’s amazing to be part of the ground floor in building that. I don’t know that Edmontonians truly understand the leadership role that this community can play in what's going to be an $11 [trillion] to 12 trillion dollar economy by 2050. It's really quite unbelievable.

Edmonton Global is a really exciting place to be— not just because your brain is unleashed and you're learning new things everyday, but because there is this level of responsibility that you’re trying to deliver on. We’re not going to do this by ourselves, so it’s really about pulling people together, aligning around shared vision and harmonizing around a story and a voice for what this place is. The hope is that, together, our voices can be loud enough for the world to hear.

While it is clear you love our city, you also mentioned you love to travel. What are some of your favourite places to explore and visit?

To celebrate 30 years of marriage, my wife and I are taking a trip through Spain this summer. Spain is one of my favourite places and in particular, Madrid. There are a handful of places that I’ve been to in the world where when I visit, I think, I could live here. Well, I could live in Madrid.

It’s got some things in common with Edmonton— some really wonderful parks and public spaces where you can walk around downtown. It doesn't have the hustle that New York or Hong Kong has. It’s a bit more relaxed. It has more of a community feel with wonderful people…not every city has those welcoming people, but Madrid has that, and I think Edmonton does, too.

When you’re not travelling to far off and away places, what are your favourite things to do in the summer, in the Edmonton area?

Getting outside, and, in particular, riding my bike. I am doing a 107 km organized bike ride this summer. I also enjoy paddleboarding on the North Saskatchewan River or in the mountains. The work we do is hard and intense, so getting away to do something outside is the best way to relax.

When the fun outside is done and you’re ready to unwind, what are some of your favourite hot spots in the Edmonton area?

One of my favourite places this time of year is the patio at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald. To sit out there and have a glass of wine or lunch… I have to say, it’s pretty tough to beat that patio. Anywhere in the world, it’s tough to beat that patio! It definitely stacks up. There are so many great little restaurants in our area too…Dalla, Bar Bricco, everything on 104 Street, Buco, Bodega, XIX Nineteen, and Rge Rd to name a few. There is such a great culinary scene here that, I think, stacks up with just about anywhere.

You’ve got great taste. Tell us some of your non-negotiable luxuries you must have in your life.

It may seem like an odd luxury, but a really good pair of ski boots. If you have $1000 to spend on ski gear, spend $1000 on ski boots and rent a pair of skis! I lead the volunteer ski patrol in Jasper, which means I am up there about every other weekend from November to May.

Also, a really good road bike, like, the entire kit, including great sunglasses so I don’t ever have to worry about what I'm wearing when I’m out on the road. And I love a good pair of socks. Not the super funky ones… I like colourful, but it has to have a really good fit with good materials.

I also have a small wine collection. When we are doing something special, it is nice to be able to cap it off with a really nice bottle of wine. I’ve really gotten into some of the reds coming out of the BC Interior right now so I have joined some wine clubs to get my hands on some of those niche ones out there.

WWW.EDMONTONGLOBAL.CA

Jill Bunting: Embracing Fashion, Confidence, and Individuality

An interview with the winner of Modern Luxuria's Most Fashionable Contest

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN HOPE LOCATION EDMONTON CITY CENTRE

What does fashion mean to you, or your favourite fashion quote?

Not just for fashion, but life in general: “Don't let people's compliments get to your head, and don't let their criticism get to your heart.”

Instagram handle:

@jillbunting

Occupation:

Currently assisting with admin at my husband's business, but looking forward to going back to school in the fall to complete my certification to teach English as a second language.

Fashion Philosophy:

My fashion philosophy has definitely evolved with age and becoming more confident and comfortable with my taste. I used to be concerned with keeping up with trends. I would compare myself to others and place too much value on external affirmation. Now I dress for myself, and I don't compare. I still appreciate a compliment, but I don't rely on compliments to validate my fashion sense or choices.

Hobbies:

Travel, pilates, reading, audiobooks, shopping (my husband doesn't take this one seriously ;) )

What do you love about Edmonton?

The people, for sure! I have met so many interesting, engaging, genuine people in our city.

Where did your passion for fashion come from?

I don't remember a time when I wasn't interested in clothes and fashion?! My Dad has always loved clothes, so I guess I come by it honestly.

Do you have favourite pieces or must-haves in your wardrobe?

Blazers and button-downs are my must-haves. When in doubt, a blazer is my default.

Favourite trend this season:

I am loving puffed sleeves.

Favourite Stores:

I can shop anywhere, but Zara, JCrew, and Anthro[pologie] would be at the top of my list.

Gucci Sleek Shield Sunglasses

Gucci Contrast Band Oversized Sunglasses

Captive Ruin III Ring

Hatton Labs Champagne Pearls Necklace

Jacquemus Gadjo Bucket Hat

Simons Woven Belt Bag

Jacquemus Giardino Shoulder Bag

Speed and Reliability for Summers to Come

The 2023 FX Cruiser SVHO is the whole summer fun package

WORDS BY MONA ROSE BUTLER

PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

Rarely do you find a watercraft that “has it all”, but Yamaha, with its 2023 FX Cruiser SVHO, may have done just that. Designed for speed, comfort, and most importantly, reliability; riders can have fun pushing the boundaries one minute, and take a leisurely cruise the next.

Boasting more power than any other Yamaha WaverRunner craft thus far, this vessel pushes beyond 90 km/h t hanks to Yamaha's race-proven, supercharged Super Vortex High Output marine engine.

“There’s zero maintenance on the superchargers [...] they do not need to be rebuilt at 100 hours, “ says Ryan Dixon of Riverside Motorsports. “Yamaha’s reliability is superior to the competitors.”

The extra weight in this model helps to mitigate choppy waters while allowing the driver to smoothly handle and make turns with little effort. The model is equipped with stadium-style seating that provides up to three riders with unobstructed views ahead. On the stern, a swim platform with built-in storage and an angled reboarding step makes hopping in and out of the water a breeze.

From the entertainment side, the 2023 FX Cruiser SVHO has loads of bells and whistles.

“The craft includes a 7-inch colour touchscreen with phone and text notifications, and factory-installed speakers,” Dixon adds. “The large, water-tight glove box comes with USB ports, and there are high back seats and cruise control for comfort and long days on the water.”

Yamahas are in high demand at Riverside Motorsports, and while Dixon and his team have sold them for decades, he says there are a couple of reasons for the rise in popularity: the number of what would be add-ons (with other brands) that come standard with these crafts, and the low cost and frequency of maintenance. With proper care, owners can expect to schedule maintenance once a year, and spend between $300 and $500.

An added bonus is that when balmy summer days begin to shift to cooler fall weather, the 2023 FX CRUISER SVHO can easily be winterized at home with no extra costs.

When it comes to the staff of this St. Albert-based, three-generation-run business, Dixon says they’re not only knowledgeable, but enthusiastic, too.

They’ll need to stay that way because summer has just begun and hot weather is in the forecast.

It’s time to head to the lake.

WWW.RIVERSIDEMOTOSPORTS.COM

Where There’s Smoke, There’s Pitt County

BBQ

Pit master, Peter Zukiwski, brings Carolina whole hog cooking to Alberta

WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY WELZ

After years of cooking for family and friends, Peter Zukiwski decided it was time to pursue a career in food. He headed south, way south, consuming his weight in American barbecue from the Carolinas in the east, to Texas in the west and several states between.

In 2019, fed and inspired by some of the industry greats and armed with 60 cinder blocks to make a pit, he launched a catering business centered around Carolina whole hog cookery and called it Pitt County BBQ after the county in North Carolina, home to the legendary Skylight Inn.

“That’s my North Star,” he says of the iconic establishment in Ayden, where they’ve been cooking whole hogs over fire since 1947. In 2022, he got his hands dirty pulling a shift there, just like he did in 2021 at Stamey’s Barbecue in Greensboro, and Buxton Hall in 2019, down the road, in Asheville.

Max Trujillo, co-host of The North Carolina Food & Beverage podcast interviewed Zukiwski in December 2021, good-naturedly calling him “obsessed” while in obvious awe of this Canadian’s depth of Carolina barbecue knowledge.

Zukiwski’s appetite for all things barbecue is insatiable. Over 40 restaurants have welcomed him into their spaces to show, teach and share information. Now, he’s eager to pay it forward because sharing information benefits the entire industry, he says.

Ask him why his coleslaw has red sauce, and his barbecue has no sauce (at least not the thick, sticky kind). He’ll be happy to “nerd out” on both topics, and more.

“If it’s cooked properly, you honor the product,“ he says of what he cooks over fire, be it a 100 lb pig or 20 racks of ribs at once, all of which are seasoned simply with salt and pepper like it’s done in the Carolinas. Beyond that, it’s heat and time that takes care of the rest—and with heat and time, you get smoke.

“It’s the smell that makes you hungry in the first place,” he says of what arises when juice and fat from the meat drips onto coals. That smoky business is what imbues everything with the very essence of barbecue; the rich, deep, and delicious flavor that makes people’s mouths water no matter where you live.

“In the end, it’s just delicious,” he says when asked what makes barbecue so special.

Flavours born of technique, tradition and regionality is what drives Peter Zukiwski day and night, in good weather and in bad.

His dedication to the craft is impressive. Two years ago, he slow-roasted a pig for six hours in minus 42-degree weather. It was so cold, Zukiwski couldn’t even get the paper to light. When it finally caught, he sat for two hours by the fire, until he, the coals and the fire found their rhythm and the cooker reached and retained the heat it needed to complete the task.

It’s not an experience he wants to repeat, but it did prove that the cooker he designed and

had custom-built could get the job done—a relief, considering the investment of time and money.

That cooker and its larger twin use briquettes as a fuel source, perfect for the pork-forward cooking found in the Carolinas and Alabama. The 12-foot monstrosity he recently had built uses Canadian maple wood, and is used for beef cuts like brisket done in the style of Texas barbecue.

To Peter Zukiwski, barbecue is about more than cooking meat over fire. It’s about the people, the history, the culture, and the tradition. It’s about sourcing food from growers and producers who care not only about the product, but also the land on which it was raised; from the corn used to make grits, to the proteins sizzling on the grill.

Zukiwski has everything he needs to make great barbecue in Alberta. The only thing he’s missing is the drawl, but a few more trips south should fix that. WWW.PITTCOUNTYBBQ.COM

Get Grilling!

Don’t just grill your food, grill your drinks, too

WORDS BY MARCIA J. HAMM PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

There are so many things to love about our warm weather months—dining out on restaurant patios, taking in events at city parks, or enjoying backyard grilling with friends and family. These things are made for summer days.

Cooking outdoors? Add some fruits and veggies to the grill and use them in cocktails to bring some extra wow factor to the table.

Read on for four fabulous recipes that will kick your summer (and your barbecue) into high gear!

Grilled Bloody Mary

Yields 1

This version of the popular American brunch cocktail is for those who prefer to drink their daily dose of vegetables rather than eat them. Fresh and savoury, the beauty of this cocktail is that a variety of vegetables can be used in the recipe itself, or for the garnish.

2 oz vodka

4 oz Bloody Mary mix (below)

Dash of Worcestershire sauce

1 TBSP smoked sea salt

1 lemon wedge

Bloody Mary Mix:

Makes 4 cups

1 medium onion, halved

1 jalapeno, halved

24 medium tomatoes, halved

1 lemon, halved

3 TBSP olive oil

1 tsp salt

½ tsp fresh ground pepper

1 lemon

For the garnish: any combination of grilled asparagus spears, green beans, or a skewer of mini portabella mushrooms and pearl onions. Preheat grill to medium.

Add onion, jalapeno and tomatoes to a large bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place on the grill, flesh side down and grill until softened and charred, about 4 minutes, turning once at the 2-minute mark.. Add the halved lemons, flesh side down, and cook alongside the vegetables for 3 to 5 minutes, or until charred. Set aside.

Add the vegetables being used for garnish to the grill and cook until charred. Remove from heat and set aside.

De-stem and peel the pepper, and add it to a blender, along with the onions and tomatoes. Squeeze in the charred lemon juice and blend ingredients until smooth.

Pour the mixture into a pitcher and refrigerate until ready to use.

Add the smoked salt to a shallow dish, run a fresh lemon wedge along the rim of a tall glass and dip it into the salt.

Add ice to the glass, followed by vodka, Bloody Mary mix and Worcestershire. Stir to mix. Garnish with grilled vegetables and serve.

Grilled Watermelon & Jalapeno Margarita

Yields 2

A bit of sweet from the fruit and some spiciness from the jalapeno simple syrup, and you’ve got a refreshing, pretty-in-pink cocktail. The simple syrup is made from grilled jalapenos and requires a cooling period, so make sure to plan ahead.

2 cups diced, seedless watermelon

1 oz lemon juice (roughly from 1 large lemon)

3 oz blanco tequila

2 oz grilled jalapeno simple syrup (see below)

Garnish:

1 lemon wheel, grilled

Simple syrup:

Makes ½ cup

2 jalapenos, whole

½ cup sugar

½ cup water

Add the jalapenos to the grill and char until bubbly. Add the lemon wheel to the grill, char on both sides and set aside. De-stem and dice the jalapenos, and add to a small pot with ½ cup of water and ½ cup of sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir until sugar is dissolved. Pour mixture through a strainer into a glass jar, and set aside to cool.

In a blender, add watermelon and blend until smooth. Add lemon juice, tequila, and simple syrup. Pulse to combine. Pour into glasses filled with ice and serve with grilled lemon wheel. Any remaining simple syrup can be kept in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a month.

Grilled Peach Old Fashioned

Yields 1

Instead of the traditional sugar cube used in a classic Old Fashioned, we’re using a smoky simple syrup made with liquid smoke, a product found at most grocery stores. Again, you’ll need to plan ahead as simple syrup requires time to cool off.

2 oz bourbon

½ oz smoky simple syrup (see below)

1 ripe peach

Simple syrup:

Makes ½ cup

½ cup sugar

½ cup water

¼ tsp liquid smoke

Add sugar, water, and liquid smoke to a small pot on the stove. Bring to a boil until sugar has dissolved, remove from heat and let cool.

Preheat grill to medium.

Cut the peach in half, remove the pit and cut each half into 3 wedges. Grill each wedge until charred on both sides.

Add a handful of ice to a bartender’s mixing glass, then add bourbon and simple syrup. Stir until chilled. Strain over a large ice cube in an Old Fashioned glass and place the grilled peach wedges directly on top.

Grilled Pina Colada

Yields 1

Pineapple is delicious on its own but even better when grilled and combined with coconut. Nothing says summer like the Pina Colada.

¼ pineapple, peeled, cored, and speared

3 ¾ oz coconut milk

1 ¾ oz dark rum

1 oz white rum

1 ¾ cup ice

Garnish:

1 pineapple wedge, peeled and grilled

Preheat grill to medium.

Place pineapple wedge and spears over the heat and grill for 1 to 2 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove the wedge and set aside for garnish. Remove the spears and place in a blender along with remaining ingredients. Blend until smooth, pour into Mason jar glasses and garnish with the grilled wedge.

The Fluidity of Style

Eclectic expressions flow together with ease

WORDS BY JESSICA FLEMING PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY WELZ

Bay 1 Gallery is bright and airy, and scented with the aroma of freshly cut wood, courtesy of the woodworking shop next door in the first bay of the building—and the inspiration for the gallery’s name.

The longtime aspiration of Ralph Reichenbach, Bay 1 Gallery came to life two years ago, with the help of a team of experts.

“We had to figure out what feel and style we wanted in the gallery,” says Reichenbach, who also put together an admissions committee to help curate the desired works.

The venue’s displays integrate various perspectives and mediums in a changing body of works by artists from Canada and beyond. Luxurious woodwork, stylish furniture, contemporary paintings, sculptures, and more are married within the space, making for a calm, cohesive environment with impeccable flow.

Some artists commit to a specific style and flourish within it, while others make their magic by drifting between mediums or sets of inspiration that call out to them.

For Reichenbach, style is ever moving. “I feel like I don’t linger in a place long enough to develop a style. I’m always moving into different styles, different feels, different woods.”

This becomes apparent as one explores the gallery, witnessing the diversity of work dotted throughout. From stylish cabinetry, to a full-sized canoe, to an expertly crafted guitar with a sound as clear as one found at a specialty guitar shop, style is a fluid concept for Reichenbach.

“Inspiration varies,” he explains. “Sometimes you see an interesting piece of wood and it speaks to you. Other times you conceptualize and take the medium and fit it into your design or concept.”

It is clear that Ralph Reichenbach and partner, Tricia DeJulia, operate with passion; extending their love for art and community into the life force of this impressive space.

Holding various shows throughout the year such as the recent Woodworking with Style, an annual event with more than ten Alberta furniture makers and designers, Bay 1 Gallery continues to grow as a cherished and important part of the Edmonton art community; a place for up-and-coming artists and seasoned masters, alike, to be seen and appreciated.

WWW.BAY1GALLERY.COM

Beautiful Breathtaking Banff and Lake Louise

What’s new, what’s changing and what to expect when you visit

WORDS BY MONA ROSE BUTLER

PHOTO BY NOEL HENDRICKSON

Banff National Park receives nearly four million visitors a year, with two million of those people arriving between July and September.

While the region is known around the world for its snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes, there are several new attractions and sights set to impress both the thrill seeker and the more gentle explorer heading to the Park this summer.

“Summer in Banff and Lake Louise is all about accessible mountain adventures and moments full of vibrant beauty,” says Kim Logan, Media & Communications Manager for Banff and Lake Louise Tourism.

Many of those adventures are perfect for daytrippers. Arrive in the morning for some kayaking or horseback riding and you can be home before sunset. Day hikes, bike rides, even a helicopter tour can be enjoyed as hourly activities. Regardless of what you choose, all activities provide endless photo ops of jaw-dropping scenery and even, on occasion, a sighting of wildlife within the Park’s boundaries.

If the highlight of your vacation is time spent savouring local flavours, you’re not at risk of going hungry. In Banff, two industry heavyweights are helping to build noticeable momentum in the Park’s food scene—Pursuit, whose portfolio includes Brazen in the Mount Royal Hotel and Sky Bistro at the top of Sulphur Mountain, and Banff Hospitality Collective, home to a growing roster of award-winning restaurants including Bluebird and Lupo.

PHOTO BY LUKASZ WARZECHA

PHOTO BY NOEL HENDRICKSON

The Collective also owns The Maple Leaf Lounge where chef Shane Chartrand uses his talents, interests, and knowledge of First Nations to create thought-provoking dishes that pay homage to his Indigenous roots.

In Lake Louise, the Chateau’s newest addition, Louiza, offers Mediterranean inspired fare courtesy of chef Nicholas Issel who remains committed to ensuring sustainability remains at the forefront of operations.

Collaborative efforts between Parks Canada, the Town of Banff, the community, and Banff & Lake Louise Tourism has resulted in a strategy that focuses on other aspects of sustainability, like the revamped public transit system—improved to lessen the impact on the Park’s precious ecosystem.

Less vehicle traffic not only means less traffic congestion and less air pollution, but also less parking headaches in areas where space is limited, especially during high-traffic summer months.

PHOTO BY ROAM CREATIVE

New routes, increased frequency, and better-integrated fare systems help to make taking transit throughout the Park hassle-free. As part of the transition, visitors are encouraged to book the Parks Canada shuttle or use private tour companies when heading out to popular destinations like Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, the latter of which is now permanently closed to public vehicles.

“Because we are in a National Park, we have a responsibility to be a leader in environmental sustainability and inspire visitors to lessen their impact on our local and global environment,” Logan explains, adding that if you drive to Lake Louise and can’t find anywhere to park the car, you’ll not only be disappointed and frustrated, but you will have wasted precious time dedicated to your getaway.

Make the most of your day exploring Banff and Lake Louise by planning ahead. Take a bus and prepare to enjoy the views—there are many, and they’re spectacular.

WWW.BANFFLAKELOUISE.COM

PHOTO BY NOEL HENDRICKSON

Opal Accent Chair

Vieste White Oak Flooring

Hamilton Sectional www.cosafina.ca

Surya Decorative Bowls www.cottswood.com

Ellisse Double Suspension LED Pendant Lamp www.lightformshop.com

Aluvia Mini Champagne Floor Lamp www.lightformshop.com

Caracole A New Day www.finessehomeliving.com

Sun, Fun, and Festivities

July's can't-miss events in YEG

WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED

Whyte Avenue Art Walk

July 7 - Whyte Avenue

Immerse yourself in a world of creativity and inspiration at Edmonton’s annual Art Walk. Located in Old Strathcona — the heart of the city — the Art Walk transforms Whyte Avenue into a dynamic outdoor gallery, showcasing an impressive array of paintings, sculptures, photography, and various other forms of art. Visitors can stroll through the bustling booths, enjoy live performances, and eat delicious food while enjoying the festive atmosphere of Whyte Avenue.

WWW.ART-WALK.CA

Edmonton International Street Performers Festival

July 7 – 16 - Churchill Square

Edmonton’s International Street Fest is an annual event that brings the city's streets alive with a vibrant celebration of street performance and entertainment. Showcasing a wide range of talent from local and international performers, this festival transforms the downtown core into a captivating hub of artistic expression. From jaw-dropping acrobatics and mesmerizing magic tricks, to hilarious comedy acts and awe-inspiring musical performances, the festival offers an eclectic mix of entertainment for all ages.

WWW.EDMONTONSTREETFEST.COM

Great Outdoors Comedy Festival

July 14 & 16 - Kinsmen Park

Set against the backdrop of Kinsmen Park, the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival brings laughter to the open air. The almost sold out festival features a stellar lineup of renowned comedy acts including Theo Von, Bill Burr, and more. You can expect a side-splitting experience from hilarious stand-up routines, improv acts, and comedic performances.

WWW.GREATOUTDOORSCOMEDYFESTIVAL.COM

Taste Of Edmonton

July 20 - 29 - Churchill Square

Foodies assemble! Taste of Edmonton is a mouthwatering annual event that showcases the city's vibrant culinary scene. As one of the largest food festivals in the region, it offers an incredible array of delectable dishes, diverse flavors, and innovative culinary creations. With numerous food vendors and local restaurants participating, attendees have the opportunity to indulge in a variety of cuisines, ranging from international flavours to local delicacies.

WWW.TASTEOFEDM.CA

K-Days

July 21 - 30 - Edmonton EXPO Centre & Exhibition Grounds

K-Days is Edmonton’s biggest annual midway, which encapsulates the spirit of summer fun and excitement. This 10-day event offers thrilling activities, captivating shows, and exhilarating rides, making it a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to classic carnival games, live entertainment, and tantalizing fair food, K-Days has something for everyone.

WWW. K-DAYS.COM

Authentic Flamenco Edmonton

July 29 - 30 - Triffo Theatre

The Authentic Flamenco Show is a cultural experience that will transport you to the heart of Spain. Held at the Triffo Theatre, this event, starring award-winning dancers including Amador Rojas, Ángeles Gabaldón, Paco Iglesias, and Diego Amador, showcases the passionate artistry and raw emotion of flamenco music and dance. From the start, you will be captivated by the music and the electrifying footwork of the performers, who, with their vibrant costumes and powerful expressions, deliver an unforgettable show.