Move Up ~ Issue 10

WESAHKECAHK AN ABORIGINAL LEGEND

TAKE ONE TAKE ONE

THE WITNESS BLANKET SURVIVORS, WARRIORS & RECONCILIATION

GO MIGHTY PEACE

TRAVEL & EXPLORE THE PEACE REGION

Lavoie Family Farms

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SPRING EDITION 2016

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Contents >> VOLUME X

PUBLISHERS

Tormaigh Van Slyke | tormaigh@pcpublishing.ca Jenelle Van Slyke | jenelle@thevaultmag.com EDITORS

Jenelle Van Slyke Tormaigh Van Slyke

p. 22

ADVERTISING SALES

Tormaigh Van Slyke | tormaigh@pcpublishing.ca LAYOUT DESIGN

Aimie Williams Tormaigh Van Slyke Jenelle Van Slyke AD DESIGN

Aimie Williams PHOTOGRAPHY

p. 57 p

Lavoie Family Farms

Paul Lavoie Images, You and Mee WRITERS

Community Futures Staff, Dan Dibbelt, Amanda Furlong, Jen Janzen, Billy-Joe Laboucan, Eleanor Miclette, Carson Murphy, Brianne Nettelfield, Hope Regimbald, Edward Spethmann, Alana Souter, Tormaigh Van Slyke Move Up is published by VAULTmedia. No content herein can be reproduced without written consent of the publisher.

12,000 copies are printed and distributed throughout the Mighty Peace Region, Alberta and beyond.

Move Up is 100 per cent funded by advertising dollars.

THE WITNESS BLANKET

Putting residential schools in perspective

p. 62

Also >> 9

Think Local, Act Global

ThinkLocalMarket gets a makeover

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Handling Negative Reviews Online

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Go Mighty Peace

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Wesahkecahk and the Chickadees

Solutions for small businesses

Your guide to spring/summer in the Peace

FIND MOVE UP IN ALL 14 FRESON BROS. LOCATIONS

PREDA

PEACE REGION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE

MOVE UP IS A PROUD MEMBER OF THE PEACE REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU AND MEE

An Aboriginal Legend

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#ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Carnaval Izidoria

Article submitted | Photography by paul lavoie

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e Carnaval de St-Isidore took place February 12 and 13, 2016.

circus acts: Circus of Hell and The Leaping Lemurs.

completed circus tasks throughout the weekend.

This year’s circus theme, Carnaval Izidoria, was a hit with both children and adults. World class entertainment was provided by Joel Lavoie, Plein Soleil, Roger Dallaire, Daniel Gervais, bands from Québec: Dans l’Shed and Réveillons! and

Great winter Carnaval fun included sleigh rides, maple taffy, beard and snow sculpting competitions, a labyrinth, kids games, a hockey tournament and much more. Six teams joined in the “Izidoria’s Next Big Act’’ fun competition and

Mother Nature blessed us with fantastic weather and many came out to enjoy the excitement, great food and sunshine. Carnaval Izidoria was a great success. Get ready for next year’s Carnaval, a 35th anniversary celebration to remember.

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#ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

the 2016 Alberta Pond Hockey championships

Article + Photography submitted

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t couldn’t have been anymore Canadian than at the 2016 Alberta Pond Hockey Championships on March 4, 5 and 6.

The 2016 Alberta Pond Hockey Championships were a great success with a total of 24 teams registered in the competitive and recreational divisions. New to the Alberta Pond Hockey Championships this year was the addition of a junior division, which had six teams register and play on the Sunday.

Over 150 hockey players took to the ice, wellequipped in their long johns, turtle necks and team jerseys. Teams came out from all over the region to participate in the event.

Players made the trip to

At the event, teams are comprised of five players, with only four on the ice at one time, and there are no goaltenders. Each game is played on a natural, outdoor ice surface that is approximately 150 feet by 75 feet, which is approximately 75 per cent of a regulation ice surface.

Games are 30 minutes in length with two 15-minute halves.

Lac Cardinal from all over Northern Alberta, including Grande Prairie, Manning, Cadotte Lake, Atikameg, Loon River, Edmonton and many other towns.

A number of new activities took place this year. For example, a speed skating oval was created behind the championship ice surface and The Northern Lites Speed Skating Club came out to demonstrate their skills for the community.

Cross-country ski trails were also created throughout Lac Cardinal. Two family rinks were created for individuals to use. Tim Hortons came out to the event and fed the hungry players and spectators and The Tim Hortons Cruiser even made an appearance and sold hot beverages all weekend long.

The event takes place every year at Lac Cardinal, which is a 15-minute drive west of Peace River or 10-minute drive northwest of Grimshaw in a picturesque and serene setting.

This year’s event was kicked off by a five yearold powerhouse named Tyler Paras who sang “Oh Canada.” The tournament started with round robin games on Friday and Saturday and ended Sunday with an elimination round.

The Alberta Pond Hockey Championship Gala took place on Saturday night at The Mile Zero Regional Multiplex with an amazing entertainment lineup of Suite 33 all the way from Lethbridge, AB, and local recording sensation Midnight Lights.

the championship games in the recreational and competitive divisions. The 2016 Alberta Pond Hockey Championships winner in the recreational division was The A Team Avalanche from Peace River. In the competitive division the undefeated Loon River won from Loon River.

The competitive division has been won for four consecutive years by Loon River.

You can expect The 2017 Alberta Pond Hockey Championships to be even bigger and better.

The Alberta Pond Hockey Association is a not-forprofit organization, which runs on a tight budget. This event could not have taken place if it was not for scores of dedicated volunteers, community-oriented sponsors, a passionate board of directors, hockey players and all of the hockey fans who came out to cheer.

For up to date information on the event go to albertapondhockey.com or find it on Facebook.

The organization loves and values feedback, so please pass it along to albertapondhockey@gmail. com.

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the RiB EyE No fancy frills. No stuffed shirt attitude. Just real people and great food. Everything you want in a steakhouse. Only casual.

mrmikes.ca 6

PEACE RIVER Move Up Ad Mar 2016

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8006 - 99th Avenue, Peace River, AB

780-624-8803

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n March 15th, the County of Northern Lights hosted I2P: Idea to Production, an initiative focused on building entrepreneurial success.

Throughout the evening, entrepreneurs and innovators were coached one-on-one on how to take the next step with their ideas and/or innovation.

Eleanor Miclette, County of Northern Lights Manager of Economic Development and Community Services, spearheaded the initiative in order to promote business development in the County by helping future-preneurs take their business ideas, or inventions, to the next level.

“During the course of our one-on-one sessions we met with seven inventors/ entrepreneurs, looked at their product or heard their ideas and provided them with next step options for ways they can build their

PIctured above, Eleanor miclette, county of Northern Lights, and Bob Hall, Alberta innovates Technology futures

business or sales,” said Miclette.

To aid this process, Miclette brought in Bob Hall, Technology Development Officer for Alberta Innovates Technology Futures. According to Hall, innovation is key to economic development.

“Communities looking to encourage their citizens to start and grow new businesses should consider how innovation and entrepreneurship can be key economic drivers: it’s

grass-roots and home-grown business development at its best,” said Hall. “Change is occurring all around you, and it gives rise to new ideas and opportunities, so be an explorer and act on your innovative ideas.”

NEWS

LOCAL PROGRAM HELPS BRING IDEAS TO PRODUCTION stronger businesses and provide access to tools that will help them succeed in their endeavours,” said Miclette. “When we understand the needs of our business community, future and present, we can provide training and bring in specialists to help with marketing, branding and financial management in the effort to build capacity, strengthen our future entrepreneurs and develop potential for employment opportunities.”

For more information about I2P, contact the County of Northern Lights.

Together, Hall and Miclette will take the information gathered at I2P and amass research that will help the inventors and entrepreneurs take their efforts to the next level.

“Our hope is that through this process we will build

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NEWS Pictured Left, the soon-to-be-completed new MD of Peace No. 135 Office. Pictured right, the original Md of Peace Office. | Photography submitted

MD OF PEACE NO. 135 TO CELEBRATE CENTENNIAL

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his year is a momentous one for many organizations and municipalities, and the MD of Peace No. 135 is no exception.

Incorporated on December 11, 1916, the MD of Peace is celebrating its centennial this year with a bang on July 16th.

The centennial celebration will be held at the Lac Cardinal Rec Area and will kickoff at 1pm with a parade. Festivities will include butter-and-ice-creammaking demonstrations in the museum, bouncy houses, a balloon man and live performances. A banquet will follow

with live music by Northern Aces.

Everyone is encouraged to join in on the fun and learn more about the MD. Located along the north bank of the Peace River, the MD boasts 92,610 hectares with agriculture as its main industry. According to Statistics Canada (2011), the MD is home to roughly 1,500 residents.

In addition to being bountiful with rich fertile land, the MD is also abundant with recreation opportunities including camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, historical attractions and more.

A message from:

The first meeting of the MD was held on January 2, 1917, at Bear Lake where six of the seven attendees were elected to form the new council.

The first municipal office was built in Peace River in 1918 (pictured, above right). It was later moved to Bear Lake, then to Berwyn, and used until 1922, when a second office was built, but you can still visit the first municipal office at the Pioneer Village Museum.

The MD is also the home of the annual North Peace Stampede, which attracts locals and visitors from far and wide every August.

Deputy Speaker DEBBIE JABBOUR, MLA Peace River

Advertisement

In the past few months, I’ve attended events in communities all the way from Fort Vermilion to St. Isidore, from dinners with local farmers to round dances with local First Nations. I look forward to continuing to spend as much time with constituents as possible.

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’m Debbie Jabbour, your MLA for Peace River and Deputy Speaker of the House.

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As an advocate for the north, I am working hard to get our roads and bridges fixed, as well as better access to healthcare.

Investment in our infrastructure in addition to supporting our major industries, from oil and gas, to agriculture, to forestry, is key to our future prosperity. The actions we are taking together to reduce emissions will also ensure our industries are sustainable in the long-term, while protecting the health, environment and economy of the Peace.

I invite you to contact me or speak to my staff at my Peace River and High Level offices any time to learn more.

High Level Constituency Office #2, 9808 - 99 Street, High Level Phone: 780.821.1990 Fax: 780.926.3040 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1228 High Level, AB Canada T0H 1Z0

Peace River Constituency Office #2 Riverdrive Mall, 10122 - 100 Street, Peace River Phone: 780.624.5400 Fax: 780.624.5464 MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 6299 Peace River, AB Canada T8S 1S2

Peace.River@assembly.ab.ca

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he Peace Region is known for its picturesque landscapes, boreal forests, stunning northern lights and entrepreneurial spirit.

It’s also known for its hardworking people and the passion they bring to everything they do.

There is no challenge they won’t face; no piece of land they can’t work. The people here roll up their sleeves and “get ‘er done.”

So, when local economic development officers were faced with the question from rural businesses on how they could best grow their market access, their response was no different. It was, “Let’s get ‘er done!”

A team of local economic development professionals from Northern Sunrise County, The County of Northern Lights, Town of Peace River, Lac Cardinal Economic Development, Smoky River Economic Development and Community Futures took up the challenge of market access. Research showed that online sales were growing in Alberta to $15 billion in 2008. This seemed like a great market to connect local businesses to and support local while acting

Submitted by The County of Northern Lights

global, and as such they created ThinkLocalMarket. com in 2010.

ThinkLocalMarket was developed as an economic development platform to build capacity and expand market access for businesses located within the partnering municipalities. Municipal partners offer this tool to their residents as a means to help grow their business and reach a larger client base. ThinkLocalMarket isn’t just an e-commerce platform, there’s also a focus on developing business skills through training, networking and sales.

The success stories on ThinkLocalMarket differ from business to business.

Some businesses that started selling online through the website have now developed their own e-commerce websites, have had to hire staff to meet growing demand or have started selling internationally. Some businesses have grown at a slower pace, but have increased their knowledge about online selling, social media and marketing.

As ThinkLocalMarket grew in the region, so did the attention for what was happening in

the Peace Region. In 2012, ThinkLocalMarket received the Alex Metcalf Award for its contribution to economic development from Economic Developers Alberta. In 2013, ThinkLocalMarket received a national award from the Ministry of Western Diversification.

vendor page and more.

What the team didn’t know at the time was that demand for this kind of tool wasn’t unique to the Peace Region alone, and soon the calls came in from other municipalities in Alberta to see if they could join this movement and offer this tool to their residents; so began the journey in 2014 to ThinkLocalMarket 2.0.

Demand for small business to think local and act global hasn’t decreased since 2010, if anything the need for businesses to be present online has only grown.

New research shows that online sales in 2014 reached a whopping $134 billion in Canada. So it should come as no surprise the ThinkLocalMarket team has renewed their commitment to this tool to support growth in the Peace Region, and Alberta as a whole.

The ability for merchants in member municipalities to grow their market access and build capacity are only limited by the will to think local, and act global.

The development of ThinkLocalMarket 2.0 has by no means been smooth, or without challenges, but now they’re on the verge of launching the new and improved ThinkLocalMarket.com website. Most of the new features will only be seen by vendors. Features include multiple vendor administrators, printing of shipping labels, invoices, vendor specific discounts or coupons, the ability to link to QuickBooks, customized branding options for the

NEWS

TLM 2.0: THINK LOCAL, ACT GLOBAL

It is an exciting time for the team of ThinkLocalMarket, which now includes over 18 municipalities and a partnership with Peace River Economic Development Alliance (PREDA)—the new driving force.

The relaunch will take place at the end of April 2016 and new and existing merchants are encouraged to set-up their storefronts now as we prepare to go live with a grand relaunch.

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COLUMN CARSON MURPHY | ARCHIVIST, PEACE RIVER MUSEUM ARCHIVES AND MACKENZIE CENTRE // 10

Significant Centennials Many Local Milestones W e are currently in the midst of a period of Centennials—of 100th anniversaries and other notable milestones of a whole range of local and national events of significance. At this time, 100 years ago, the Edmonton, Dunvegan and British Columbia Railway (E.D. & B.C.), colloquially known as “the Extremely Dangerous and Badly Constructed” railway, finished the railway trestle spanning the Heart River, and the construction of the railway station. This station is now more commonly known as the N.A.R. Station and was designated a provincial historic resource in 1988. The Chamber of Commerce leases the space from the Town of Peace River and also provides visitor information services for the town.

The ground floor of the station reflects the era of the 1920s and 1930s, and is open to the public year round.

Another big transportation milestone of 1916 was the launch of the S.S. D.A. Thomas steamboat which plied the Peace River from Hudson’s Hope to Fort Vermilion until she ran aground one too many times and was pulled from service in 1930.

She was named after D.A. Thomas, Lord Rhondda, a Welsh statesman, businessman and industrialist who invested considerably in the Peace River area operating a chain of stores, steamboats and investing in the fur trade and the burgeoning oil and gas industry. The D.A. was built right here in Peace River—in the West

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Peace Shipyards.

Other significant events of 1916 include the formal name change from Peace River Crossing to Peace River—Canada Post suggesting the name was too long and cumbersome.

By this time, the community was large enough to warrant establishing its own community cemetery in 1916, Mount Pleasant Cemetery, replacing the smaller Anglican burial ground located on the hillside just below the railway tracks. The Roman Catholic population had grown enough to permit the building of a larger church in Peace River in 1915 on the present site of Our Lady of Peace. This church was consecrated in 1916 by the bishop as “Immaculate Conception.”

Additionally, the North West Mounted Police (we know them as the R.C.M.P. now) were outgrowing their quarters on 99th Street, and so two new identical buildings were built; one as the Inspector’s residence, and the other for offices and eventually a nurses residence.

The Inspector’s residence is still standing, one of the last of the original buildings from the N.W.M.P. complex.

The Municipal District of Peace, No. 135 was officially formed in 1916, having reached the population requirement of at least 1,000 residents. Enthusiastic boosterism for the agricultural and business potential of the region was in full swing!

Notables on the national level in 1916 include, Canada celebrates the 100th anniversary of Women’s Right to Vote (this right was granted in Manitoba, Alberta and Saskatchewan in 1916); the 175th anniversary of the birth of Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Canada’s 7th Prime Minister; the 175th anniversary of the establishment of responsible government in Canada; the 150th anniversary of the Fenian Raids; centennial of the WWI Battle of the Somme and the Battle of BeaumontHamel.

To learn more about the centennials being celebrated locally and nationally visit the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre in person or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ TOPRMuseum. The museum has released five postcards for purchase commemorating the above local milestones.

photos submitted by the town of Peace River

Town of Peace River

A Culvert runs through it

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magine a quiet April evening with a soft, warm breeze that ruffles the leaves, suddenly a thunderous crack, followed by rushing water through the streets.

That was the scene two years ago in Peace River when Pat’s Creek culvert, an underground channel running under downtown, burst through an access hole and flooded parts of downtown.

It wasn’t the first time it had happened either, including 2013, Pat’s Creek had three overflows or floods in the span of 24 months. With each flood event resident safety and security was undermined and business stability and viability were threatened.

Something had to be done.

In response to this the Town of Peace River evaluated the structural integrity of the culvert and developed a plan for remediation. The two-phase project came in at an estimated value of more than $4 million, and a plan needed to be put in place to find the funding.

One possible avenue was the Province’s newly created Alberta Community Resilience Program (ACRP), a $500 million fund setup in the wake of the 2013 southern floods to help stabilize communities at-risk of flooding. In 2014 Peace River applied for $2.55 million and received 90 per cent of that request or $2.295 million. In 2015 that money was used to conduct critical repairs on the floor of the culvert. That same year we also applied for another $2.3 million in funding for the second phase.

In February of 2016, the Premier herself made the trek to Peace River to announce that the Town would receive $2.07 million (90 per cent of $2.3 million) for phase two of the project. This second funding announcement was equally vital as it will allow the installation of valves to prevent the culvert from filling up with water from the Peace River during high water.

There is no way the Town could have afforded to affect these repairs by itself in such a short time frame. The provincial

support we have received has been truly amazing. It’s money that will get used not only to protect our community and downtown businesses – but it’s money that can help put some local people to work.

It did in 2015 – the $2.55 million project was spread over four companies three of which are based in Peace River. While the contracts for phase two haven’t been tendered yet, there are many companies and contractors in this Town capable of successfully bidding for them when they become available.

For business and residents a downtown free of the threat of sudden floods is a good thing, which makes this an investment in Peace River we should all get excited about.

Adam Dietrich Communications Coordinator Town of Peace River

ADVERT ISE ME N T

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780.624.8449 | 780.625.2116 reid.glenn@wispernet.ca 12

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In an Ideal World

Man Eats Differently, Sheds Pounds & Health Concerns From amazing weight loss to the eradication of serious health problems, The Ideal Health Clinic—Peace River’s health and weight loss centre—is changing lives.

Behind it all is business owner Michelle Belzile, her highly trained staff and the science of the Ideal Protein diet.

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eet Brian Dewar, a retired school administrator who started the diet late last October with his girlfriend. By December, Dewar’s health improved so substantially that he stopped taking his diabetes and blood pressure medication. By late March, he had already lost 68 pounds. This is Brian Dewar’s story.

“The program uses a process called ketosis and has a four-phase protocol. There is a beginning and an end. Clients that give 100 per cent will get 100 per cent results. Our goal is to re-educated clients to a new eating pattern, creating a new lifestyle,” said Belzile.

This friendly joke couldn’t be further from the truth. Prior to starting the Ideal Protein diet, Dewar developed diabetes and high blood pressure. However, Dewar was able to shed much of his concern for these health issues along with the extra pounds he was carrying.

“My dental hygienist was using Ideal Protein and she looked great after only a month so I gave Michelle Belzile a call at The Ideal Health Clinic and we started the following Friday,” said Dewar.

“I came off the meds in December, and at January’s checkup, my sugars were at 5.4 and still range from 5.3-to-5.6. My blood pressure dropped from 160/90 to 120/80. It fluctuates depending on stress and other things, but my highest reading since starting the diet has been 140/85 and that was the week from hell,” said Dewar.

Dewar has dieted in the past, but he’s never been able to make it work for him.

With his weight down and his health back on track, Dewar has a new perspective.

“All the other diets involved meals that took too long to make, especially since I’m often on the road. I never felt full, and so I ended up cheating a lot on the other diets,” said Dewar.

“This diet is easy to follow, but I don’t think of it as a diet anymore. It’s more like learning to eat properly,” said Dewar.

For Dewar, The Ideal Health Clinic was different—much different.

“The plan is great for people on the road.

Instead of a quick stop for fast food, it’s a quick stop for a shake and a restricted bar.

Subway has a chopped veggie salad, which complements this diet and Mr. Mikes in Peace River has been making my food just perfect so I can still maintain the diet and go out for a great meal,” said Dewar.

Dewar started the diet weighing 244 pounds.

He’s now down to 176 pounds.

“I haven’t felt hungry on this diet and that has been key for me. My doctor asks, ‘Where is rest of you?’ and my friends and colleagues keep asking, ‘Are you trying to lose weight or, at your age, are you dying?’” said Dewar.

Dewar also noticed something remarkable about his stomach.

BEFORE

“It’s gone. My waist has gone from a 44” to a 35”, which means all new clothes, and anyone who knows me knows that means more colours and more loudmouth golf styles,” said Dewar.

Today, Dewar feels better than ever.

“I am more active now than I have been in the last 10 years. When I go hiking in the national parks, their beauty is breathtaking— not taking my breath away,” said Dewar.

Michelle Belzile loves success stories like this one. She has several success stories like this since she started the ideal health clinic only one year ago.“My business is about changes lives. While teaching people how to eat, we’re reducing obesity and health issues in the Peace Region. Food is our medicine,” said Belzile.

AFTER

For more information about The Ideal Health Clinic, call Michelle at 780-617-9010 or drop in to 9907 101 Avenue, Peace River.

Last issue we profiled Tania Fickle who lost 110 pounds in six months. UPDATE: Tania has now lost a total of 157 pounds!

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COLUMN COMMUNITY FUTURES PEACE COUNTRY //

Creativity &yourInnovation keys to a successful business

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usinesses that have been successful over the long haul are those that continue to be creative and innovative. These businesses don’t copy what others do. They derive inspiration from innovative ideas and use them as a spring board to come up with their own unique application, product or service. Successful businesses also tend to distance themselves from the competition rather than compete with them. And if they see another company copying what they do, they are quick to create something new and better.

It is important to recognize that creativity and innovation are different.

Creativity involves breaking down and restructuring knowledge about a subject in order to gain new insights and develop new or novel ideas. Innovation refers to the application of the new ideas. In other words, innovation is applied creativity.

Strategies for Boosting Creativity and Innovation in Your Business 1. Even the most dedicated and

passionate entrepreneur can quickly become a slave to routine and the business begins to stagnate.

Minds and actions go on autopilot.

Successful business owners have the keen ability to observe their environment and to use all of their

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senses, all of the time. Take the time to “sharpen your senses” and “take everything in.” Look where others aren’t looking to see what others aren’t seeing to keep your business fresh and ahead of the curve.

2. Creative ideas and innovative

approaches can come from almost anywhere: business partners, customers, target groups, marketing experts and, most importantly, your employees. Encourage your employees to “think outside of the box.” Show them you are listening to their feedback and nurture an open exchange of ideas. Empower your employees by giving them the time and resources to explore new areas for innovation with the end result being the generation of cost effective business solutions.

3. Stimulating creativity and creative

problem solving increase business productivity and creates that competitive edge every business is striving to achieve. Take the time to really identify your problem.

According to Business Strategist and Guru Daniel Burrus, “Your problem is not the problem; there is another problem. When you define the real problem, you can solve

it and move on.” In other words, your biggest “problem” is often the symptom of a larger, untreated issue.

4. When working on a new idea

or innovative approach, let it “incubate” for a while. Take a break from it and do something totally different for a while. For example, if you and your team are working on a new business project, take a break from thinking about it for a while to play guitar, video games or a friendly game of racquetball. A break shifts your brain into another place and helps you be more innovative and creative when you get back to work on your project.

The more creative and innovative you and your team members are, the more long-term business success you’ll achieve. So, instead of constantly chasing “the next big idea” in your industry, bring creativity and innovation to what you are doing in your business.

When you do, you become an industry innovator, and the one your competitors will try to copy!

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Whether it was Live Online training or on-campus classroom courses, Perrier says, “having local training keeps me close to home and my family. You don’t miss a lot of work with this style of learning. I chose NLC because they were recommended, local and they offer the courses I needed.”

Tammy Menssa, along with six other managers from North Peace Housing Society, is enrolled in the Essential Skills for Supervisors certification program.

After investigating several options for leadership training, Menssa chose NLC. “It really is all-inclusive and covers every aspect of Management that I had been looking for and what my managers had been asking for,” said Menssa.

Having only just begun the certificate, Menssa has already seen the benefits in her workplace, which include: a better understanding of the people she works with, discovery and appreciation of her own strengths and those of her coworkers and respect for one another’s leadership styles.

“It has allowed me to look at the people

I work with, or have worked with in the past, and have a better understanding of why they do the things they do.

The training has given me a greater awareness of my own strengths and weaknesses and what I can focus on to become a better leader,” said Menssa.

Education and training have the ability to improve individual self-worth, employability, employee retention and quality of service Continuing Education can mean a variety of things to the individual, the business owner and the employee, but when you boil it down to the essentials it’s about growth, gaining knowledge and developing expertise. Nurturing these qualities doesn’t just impact an individual or a business—it impacts the communities we live in. Education and training have the ability to improve individual self-worth, employability,

COLUMN

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or Paul Perrier at DMI (Daishowa-Marubeni International), continuing education and corporate training means being able to keep up with training trends and staying current in his field. Paul has taken over ten courses through the Continuing Education & Corporate Training department (CECT) at Northern Lakes College (NLC) in Peace River.

employee retention and quality of service; and it contributes to a positive workplace culture. It’s an investment.

CECT aims to foster a community where each person has access to the knowledge they need to become experts in their fields; where businesses can provide customers with the best service and quality of products; and where employees are happier going to work because they know they will be in an environment that wants to see them succeed. Join us in cultivating this type of community in the north.

Northern Lakes College offers a diverse range of continuing education courses and certificate programs. We are specialists in Live Online learning so many courses can be taken from anywhere, anytime. If you like the traditional face-to-face training, we can also help you. Many of our courses are in the classroom where participants network and learn from each other.

Take a minute and check out the NLC website and discover the wide range of training available. And, if you don’t see what you are looking for, call us at 1-866-652-3456 to discuss private training geared towards what your company needs.

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BRIANNE NETTELFIELD | CONTINUING EDUCATION & CORPORATE TRAINING LIAISON, NORTHERN LAKES COLLEGE \\

What does “continuing education and corporate training” actually mean?

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RELOCATION STORY

The Earles Moved Up to Peace River from Nova Scotia The Earles are: John Mark T. Earle, 35 Melissa E Earle (aka Mee), 32 Jeremiah, 13 Rachel Joy, 11 and Elisha Earle, 2 & 3/4

Where are you originally from?

JM: Nova Scotia and Melissa is from Florida.

How long ago did you move up here?

Seven years ago.

Where do you work?

John Mark builds houses and does drywall mudding and taping with his company Peace River Homes. Melissa is a photographer and social media marketer with her business, You and Mee.

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What’s your story? How did you end up relocating to the Mighty Peace Region?

We moved to Peace River, originally, nine years ago. We then moved to Cold Lake to be closer to family who had relocated there, but we drank the water in Peace River and we couldn’t stay away. Two years later, we moved back.

We told ourselves when we moved back this time we would make the most of it. We would love it, find things we loved to do and, most of all, find pockets of the community that we could serve and build relationships. It probably helps that we both run companies based on our passions.

What was your first impression of the Peace Region?

When you drive around that first bend coming from St. Isidore, the view is breathtaking. We have two

boys who were born with cleft lips and palates, and we “get” to go to Edmonton probably every three weeks for hospital specialists. Every time we drive back into Peace River it takes our breath away and everyone sings choruses of “we’re home!”

What surprised you the most about the Peace Region?

M: The Peace River Permaculture Group and the Natural Forest School.

We didn’t expect there to be such a welcoming community that is so outdoorsy and passionate about growing food and being outside in nature. We have learned so much like how to wildcraft, how to make honey, how to grow mushrooms, how to collect birch sap (like maple syrup) and, our favourite, how to grow food like veggies and fruit up here in the north.

M: Well the weather is the biggest part. We always say that because there is only three months of summer here, we should be here and soak it all up.

Spending time in Peace River Region during the summer have been some of the best experiences we’ve had yet. Camping, fishing, gardening, wildcrafting, hiking, swimming, canoeing, river tubing—it’s all pretty spectacular in the warm seasons. If you live here, think of the summer as a staycation, and find things to try that you have never tried before.

What would be your advice to anyone thinking of relocating here?

Put yourself out there, and start by being friendly. The best way to make a new friend is to smile and be engaging. A great book our whole family read is How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnagie, a classic on getting friends.

In Peace River being a transient town, people who currently live here don’t know you have moved here, until you “show up” and start getting involved.

The contractors here love coffee, the business owners love flowers and help, the churches and youth groups love more company, there are art groups that meet and people who love pets, horse and golf clubs, paintballing and curling clubs. There are lots of groups on Facebook for Peace River to meet your interests.

Join one, introduce yourself in a short paragraph. But the biggest tip of all, is you will have the experience you expect, so expect adventure, friendships, growth and a lot of fun.

Have you had any wildlife encounters since you’ve been here?

M: We were walking up Pat’s Creek, a girlfriend, our dogs and kids. We didn’t tell anyone, we just decided to spontaneously go. As we were walking, busy talking, our dogs and kids ran ahead. I thought I saw our

dogs in the bushes and realized it was a bear! The kids backed up behind us and we started to walk away, while giving that bear a choir presentation at the top of our lungs that he or she will probably never forget. I learned my lesson, next time I will tell someone where I am going before I go on a hike or walk.

JM: Right after the song “what does the fox say” was really popular, I pulled up to a house I was building in the early morning fog, and there, low and behold was a bright orange fox.

I took a picture of it with my phone.

Both in real life and in the picture, it didn’t look real. It was so unreal, blew me away. Besides the fox, I get to see lots of wild nature on our building sites. I enjoy each encounter.

What is your ideal Saturday in the Peace Region?

Saturday is our favourite day of the week in Peace River, especially in the spring, summer or fall, but really any season.

First off, we stop bright and early at Java to get a London Fog or a latte, depending on if it’s a tea or coffee mood Saturday, and always, always with a side of cinnamon buns!

Saturdays are cinnamon bun day at Java, baked fresh that morning around 4 am! Get to Java early enough before they are all gone, because they are so popular they go quickly! The Bodhi Tree (a boutique in Peace River) has Saturday morning Yoga, so we have either gone or will meet up with friends to get our sweaty yoga workout on.

Then it’s time to crack open the paper, peruse the Facebook groups and go searching for garage sales, or estate sales. After getting some awesome deals, we then go to the local farmer’s market and get honey sticks, desserts and cashew butter from Off the Wheaten Path. If the Green Goddess is at a market then grab some body butter for a tub soak on Sunday. If we are out with friends

we will then walk the dyke or do lunch. If it’s cherry, strawberries or saskatoon berry season, we will hit up the farms. We end the day with a bonfire complete with baked goodies or pie from the farmer’s markets, and bask in the late evening sunglow with family and friends.

Peace River really is amazing place to take in Saturdays.

What is your favourite spring activity in the Peace?

JM: Hiking down the Heart River with the kids, taking a picnic and collecting rocks, Melissa takes pictures and all the kids learn how to rope climb some of the steep slopes.

RELOCATION STORY

Compared to where you came from, how does the Peace Region differ?

In your experience, what is unique about the Peace Region?

M: I’ve seen lots of people in Move Up magazine say they love the people, and I do too. I love the people here.

But I love and am so amazed at the local businesses and creatives. These people have passion and blow me away by their dedication and big dreams. They inspire me and make me want to be a better person. It helps that I love photographing them, but sharing in their stories, and hearing about their lives just blows me away by the heart, vision and dreams people have here.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Not going to lie, probably on a beach somewhere. Whether it’s on the beaches of Peace River, or in a third world country. We have dreams of building houses for people in other countries that have been through world traumatic events that need help rebuilding. We also have a dream to build retreats, so between houses, retreats and photography, we want to travel and see lots. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and, of course, it starts where your heart is, and Peace River is definitely home.

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COLUMN EDWARD SPETHMANN | MANAGER OF CONTENT MARKETING, STRONG COFFEE MARKETING //

3FORTIPS DEALING

WITH NEGATIVE FEEDBACK ON SOCIAL MEDIA

D

ealing with an unhappy customer is always a tough situation. Dealing with an unhappy customer in an online or social media setting can be even tougher—given the brevity of word limits, the ambiguity of words and intent, and the fact that it’s harder to emote via keyboard.

So, here are three things to consider before dealing with a negative comment or review on social media.

1

Be grateful for the valuable feedback.

You don’t always have to literally thank the critic for the feedback (but sometimes it’s nice to say something like, “we appreciate your honest feedback”). But seriously, be thankful they’re giving you ideas for improvement. This is valuable information for next time. You can always find ways to improve the user experience. Think of it as a learning experience.

You may have made a

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mistake you didn’t even realize you were making or could have done something a little bit differently. Now you know, and they are giving you this information and feedback for free.

People pay for this type of thing—opinion surveys, focus groups, user-testing for websites and apps, etc.

The customer is taking the time out of their day to let you know how you could make your business better.

They are likely going to discuss their experience with friends and family anyway, and social media gives them the chance to include you in the conversation. Be grateful!

2

Take it with a grain of salt.

The reality is you can’t please everyone all the time.

Don’t take it personally.

It’s a very hard thing to do when you’re the owner or manager of a business or page, but it’s essential to handle your response in a calm and professional manner. Remember, for every unhappy review or

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response there are likely going to be many more who have enjoyed the experience enough not to provide feedback. It’s much easier (and top of mind) to send feedback when you have a negative experience rather than a positive experience.

3

See the other side of things.

They’ll say some things that might upset you, but that’s okay—take it and learn for next time.

Jumping to your own defence isn’t always the best option and, on the flipside, completely ignoring them isn’t always the best thing either (as mentioned above, they are taking time out of their day to help you improve).

This can be a tough one, especially if you own the business you’re representing or have a strong connection to it. You don’t always have to agree with what the critics are saying but knowing where they are coming from and how they see things is important.

Remember, there’s a real human-being on the other side of the screen that you are responding to. Be polite, professional and calm. Understanding their viewpoint gives you the chance to respond in an appropriate and constructive way.

We’ve all been in a situation where we’ve been disappointed over an event, experience, situation, transaction, etc. Therefore, we can all relate to having a less than stellar experience and can understand how that can make one feel. People are in the moment and upset.

That’s understandable.

So there you have it— remember and follow these three simple ideas the next time you have to deal with negative feedback on social media or review sites.

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FROM RUSSIA, WITH LOVE Shane James | Café Vlad | Fairview, AB

BY JEN JANZEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU & MEE

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ou could say Shane James has been working at one Café Vlad or another since 1993. In that fateful year, James answered a newspaper ad from an overseas hotel searching for a chef. A seasoned cook who had been working at his family’s Fairview restaurant since 1974, James had the skills, and his curiosity was piqued.

He got the job and soon set off for Vladivostok, Russia. A city of about half a million people, Vladivostok is near the China and North Korea borders on the southeast tip of Russia. James spent five years cooking at the Vlad Hotel in a restaurant called Café Vlad.

After imparting a North American touch

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to Russian cuisine, James was eager to bring a bit of Russia to his hometown of Fairview. He returned in 1999 with his new wife, Malvina, and opened Café Vlad, a loving tribute to the Russian original.

James closed up Café Vlad in 2004 to work with his family at the Dunvegan Inn, but two years ago he brought the popular restaurant back and has been going strong ever since.

Move Up: What is your menu like?

Shane James: It’s a mixture of Westernstyle food and Russian dishes. Some of the names on the menu have a Russian name, like Eggs Romanov, which is basically Eggs Benedict with dill and

parmesan.

What is your approach to customer service?

I try to train my staff to give the same customer service that I would expect from a restaurant.

From a business perspective, what have you found works best and what doesn’t?

In the first six months, I had to modify my menu. I started out selling a lot of Russian dishes, but everybody expected cheeseburgers and clubhouses. So I switched it to be mostly western with a few Russian dishes. I put out different Russian salads and dishes on the lunch

buffet, and if they’re good sellers, I’ll put them in permanently.

What are your most popular dishes?

What’s your favourite Russian dish?

Pelmeni, which you can think of as the Russian version of tortellini, and borscht because it has such a unique flavor.

Perogies, cabbage rolls and kielbasa.

What are some of your “must try” dishes?

Russian borscht. People come in and buy frozen containers. It’s a meal in itself.

Why is parmesan such a popular flavour?

It’s the closest I could find to Russian cheese, which is a white cheese, very strong-tasting. It’s everywhere there.

Have any of your customers inspired you?

When I first opened my restaurant, an older gentleman came in, had large bowl of borscht, then he had a small bowl of borscht. He called me out of the kitchen. He said it’s the most excellent borscht he had in a long time but I was doing two things wrong: not using sea salt and not using balsamic vinegar. How he knew that I don’t know, but now I use sea salt and balsamic vinegar.

You have a couple of Russian newspaper clippings on the wall.

What’s the story behind them?

I’ve had a few articles. One was about when I did a waterhole rodeo at the hotel. We didn’t have cows, but we had a few skinny horses. I brought in a bunch of bandanas and cowboy hats, gun holsters and whips. We made a steer from a sawhorse to practice roping. I cooked up t-bone steak with beans and hamburgers for lunch. We called it “Western Days” and we did it for four years.

I was also on a Russian morning talk show, similar to Good Morning America. I cooked New York steak and crab legs and they asked questions about Canada.

You have to try the Russian Borscht.

It’s a meal in itself.

Shane James

Menu design?

We do that.

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FARMERS: A FRESH START

Mark and Shannon Gadsby | Farmers Restaurant | Nampa, AB

BY TORMAIGH VAN SLYKE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU & MEE Shannon and Mark Gadsby are excited to embark on a new chapter of their lives.

After growing up in the rural community of Nampa, Shannon left home to study at NAIT, then moved to Kamloops, BC. After 20 years away, Shannon is back, and has embarked on a tasty new adventure with her husband Mark. Together they have built and are now running Farmers Restaurant, Nampa’s newest character restaurant.

the Peace Region in July of 2015. They wasted no time getting to work on building their dream, and Farmers Restaurant opened Valentine’s Day, 2016.

be afraid to ask questions about what you see. It’s an experience worthwhile.

Farmers is a modern licensed café with an eclectic, refinished twist—serving homemade fare and specialty coffee in a clean and bright atmosphere rooted and retrofitted with interesting pieces of local history.

“I’ve been gone for so long but people know me, and I’m starting to get to know them again too, which is really neat,” said Shannon.

Swing by for an ice cream and some freshly baked goodies or relax at a “buffalo rubbed” table and peruse the menu over a glass of wine.

Either way, take a moment to look around, and don’t

Shannon Gadsby: We were actually involved in the vision of this whole building from the very beginning due to fact my mom was part of the historical society. Mark’s a carpenter by trade and I am a landscape and urban designer, so my mom asked if I could come up with a plan for the property. Then, fast forward. [The historical society] got full funding and partnered with the county and the building got built.

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Move Up: What inspired you to open this restaurant?

Later, we put in a proposal to do the restaurant and we were successful. Looking back, it’s interesting how it was kind of my mom’s vision in the beginning. Sometimes I think it was her plan to bring me back.

Our background experience in the food industry started about five years ago. Mark and I left our careers and we bought this little 500 square foot café at Sun Peaks, which is a ski hill in BC. It was really run down and had no customers. We renovated it and built it from the ground up, and now it’s thriving and doing really well.

What was your vision when grab and go. Either way, you were building Farmers? you’re likely going to get something homemade.

S: People drive through all the time to go to Alaska or NWT and it would be cool to have a nice, funky place to stop. We want to host events and partner with the museum and businesses in Nampa to create a whole Nampa experience. So, our vision was to incorporate the fact we have the museum in the back and to tie in a bit of Nampa history by reusing materials from the area in a brand new way—recycled but not at all run down looking.

You’ll see tons and tons of things here. For instance, the beams we repurposed from our friend Sherry Crawford’s old grain sheds. Then, a lady from Harmon Valley gave us some buffalo shoots, for loading buffalos onto the truck, and Mark built the tables from them. We called them buffalo rubbed tables.

Mark made the lights too.

They are custom made.

What dining experience are you trying to create?

S: This is the type of place where you can come for a relaxing meal or you can

Mark Gadsby: It’s that personal touch. And right now we’re doing breakfast and lunch so we’re open from 7am-4pm. We plan to start opening for supper.

S: We want to pair suppers with events like open mic nights, ambient live music and local talent.

Tell me about the care and attention you take when selecting your ingredients and your recipes?

S: Everything is grown or produced in Alberta.

Our food provider is really dedicated. We’re going to be doing more and more of it ourselves when summer comes, sourcing our own berries for pies and that sort of thing.

What kind of flavour profiles are you trying to create? Are they inspired by a particular type of cuisine?

S: There’s definitely a

poster design?

We absolutely do that.

Ukrainian flair and some German too. We listen and respond to what people like, and when we have a Ukrainian plate, it sells out every time.

So right now we’re selling homemade perogies. We have a perogy poutine, which is four perogies over a poutine.

We also sell perogies as part of our breakfast plates but we’re going to expand on that more as we go—more Ukrainian plates and so on.

What’s your “must-try” dish?

M: The Bürgermeister. The Bürgermeister actually is Sherry Crawford’s rendition of a burger.

S: The word Bürgermeister means mayor in German, and where it came from is Sherry’s Dad used to be the mayor in Nampa, so she named the Bürgermeister after her Dad. It’s a 6 oz. beef and pork patty that we bring in, and it’s got sauerkraut, mustard, tomato, lettuce and it’s on a pretzel bun so it’s our own.

It’s a really great burger if you want to try something different.

black bean veggie burger.

We make our veggie burger in-house. People can be a little hesitant to try a veggie burger, but they are just amazing. It’s got the texture of meat, but it’s a vegetarian burger with lots of flavour.

It’s really good.

How do you want to position yourselves in the marketplace?

S: We really want to serve this little community of Nampa, but also we want to become known as a destination— somewhere to come for a special date night, or if you’re showing visitors the Peace Region.

M: We are amazed how many times people drive from Peace River on their lunch break because it’s a 20-minute commute. It’s neat to see that.

Is there anything you would like to add?

S: Watch for our grand opening, which will be after we start opening for supper in the spring or summer.

But, don’t wait for that, come in and check us out in the meantime.

The other must try is the

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ON A ROLL

Shan Su | Kita North | Peace River, AB

BY TORMAIGH VAN SLYKE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU & MEE

O

riginally from China, Shan Su (known to many as “Sue”) moved to the Peace Region in 2009 after her husband got a job here.

At that time, she was a stay-at-home mom, but after a few years she began working part-time in Peace River. She then earned a bookkeeping certificate from Northern Lakes College, and shortly thereafter she got the opportunity to fulfill a long-time dream of opening a restaurant.

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Kita North opened in Peace River in April, 2015. It is the perfect blend of Japanese, Chinese and Western—a great place to dine for nearly every palate—and the food is made with tender love and care.

What inspired you to open the restaurant?

Well, on my first date with my husband, which was 18 years ago, I said that I want to open my own restaurant someday. I don’t even remember saying that, but he remembered. It is something

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I’ve always wanted to do though. I like cooking, and I like to hear people’s feedback after they try my food—how they feel and everything. I used to just invite my friends to my house all the time and cook with them, and they always said how good the food was. I like to hear that.

What would you say makes Kita North unique to the Peace Region?

First of all, we offer a new kind of cuisine to the Peace Region—Japanese food,

which we didn’t have in Peace River or the area when I started. I also think it’s a very comfortable and cozy restaurant, so that probably makes it a little special too.

I understand you’re from China. What inspired you to open a Japanese restaurant?

I’ve always liked Sushi, so when we moved to Peace River we would go to Grande Prairie [200 km away] twice a month just to have Sushi.

What kind of dining experience are you trying to create?

Kita North is a place where you can enjoy nice, very yummy food, but I also want to make sure it’s a place that you can come to relax, especially after a day of hard work.

Also, I have two young kids and I know how difficult it is to eat out with little kids, so when I create my menu I want it to have family options, so I have a large variety for kids as well.

What is your approach to customer service?

I want my customers to feel as comfortable here as in their own home. I treat my customers like one of my family members. Come in, help yourself and feel at ease.

What goes into selecting the ingredients and the recipes?

High quality is the number one thing I consider. It must be fresh. All my fish is

shipped here directly from a Japanese trade company in Vancouver.

Variety is also very important to me. I don’t want people to have to go farther than Peace River if they want to try something new.

What kind of flavour profiles are you trying to create? Are they inspired by a particular cuisine?

Japanese and Chinese cuisines have a lot to offer. There’s a long list of menu items and ingredients I want to bring in that I haven’t yet.

In my kitchen, I have a great chef who goes by Sam. A long time ago, Sam was a hot chef at five star hotels in China. When he came to Canada though he couldn’t speak English well, so he ended up being a dishwasher at a Japanese restaurant and, because he is a really good chef, they taught him Japanese-style cooking. Now, he has been working as a Japanese kitchen chef for over 20 years.

Chinese New Year, Sam cooked traditional Chinese food, which I love, and it was very popular and very busy.

A lot of people liked it, so I think there might be a market here for more than just North American Chinese food. It takes time though, so right now I am trying it slowly and getting feedback on it.

What would you say are your most popular dishes?

The most popular sushi options are the Crazy California and Super Crunch rolls. These two have no raw fish in them, but more and more people are starting to try the rolls with raw fish, and there are some new favourites. One that is gaining popularity is the Dragon Eye roll.

The Dragon Eye has raw salmon and green onions inside, rolled up and lightly deep fried, so the salmon inside is a little bit cooked, so it’s kind of like a tataki.

It’s a little spicy, a little sweet and has a little bit of onion flavour. It’s delicious.

How about a “must try” on the Chinese side of the menu?

I really like the vermicelli soup. It’s special. When Sam started here, he brought in his own ideas to make soup and I personally really like it—that’s one you should try.

Is there anything you’d like to add?

I want to say thanks to the Peace Region. A lot has happened in the last year. In the beginning, it was a bit of a mess and then we had a fire in September, which closed us for a month. It was a lot for a new business and it’s been a tough year in the economy too, but I’m very appreciative of the people who keep coming in and supporting us. We will try our best to bring more, and better, food to the Peace Region.

This February, during the

Social media ad campaign?

Yep. We do that.

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riginally from Montréal, Norm met Marylin, a Peace Region local, in the late ‘90s in Manning, AB. They moved to Québec together shortly after and returned to the Peace Region in 2006. They knew they wanted to do something different but weren’t sure what. So, when the opportunity arose to purchase a pizza place in Grimshaw, AB, they decided to go for it.

Norm and Marylin Plante opened Norm’s Pizzazz May 4, 2015, and they have already made quite an impression in the community. Take it from Jason and Cherie Oakley, of Oakley Enterprises, who are dedicated regulars of Norm’s Pizzazz.

“They remember you and they are like your friends. They have specials every day that are different and homemade.

We come for breakfast a lot too.

Bacon and eggs for me and Jason eats French toast all the time. You never have to worry about anything. If you have an issue, they’ll take care of you,” said Cherie.

“Joanne [Backstrom, the waitress] is awesome. The food is always great and consistent too, which means quite a bit,” said Jason.

Norm and Marylin plan to build a drive-through, hopefully this summer.

And there are plans for a patio too. In the meantime, stop by and check out what’s on the menu at Norm’s Pizzazz.

Move Up: What inspired you to open your restaurant?

PLENTY OF PIZZAZZ

Norm and Marylin Plante | Norm’s Pizzazz Grimshaw, AB

BY TORMAIGH VAN SLYKE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU & MEE

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Norm Plante: We felt there was a lot of food you couldn’t get here. There was nowhere to get a really good pizza, a real smoked meat sandwich and a proper poutine. You couldn’t get real fries.

Marylin Plante: There was no restaurant with the quality of ingredients we bring in and you couldn’t get Montréal-style food, like poutine with real cheese curds.

N: It’s a bit less Montréal-style now though. It’s not French cuisine, but it’s a bit of what we would have in Montréal—like real fries with lots of vinegar, but we listen to what the

customers want too.

M: That’s true. For example, we tried to take the liver and veal cutlet off the menu, but people want it so we’re bringing it back. We’re making it even though it’s not on the menu.

What makes your restaurant unique in the Peace Region?

them to be happy. When we find out that someone wasn’t happy, we get concerned. For example, this is a small town, so when a friend let us know that someone they knew wasn’t happy with their meal, Marylin called that person at home to let them know we care and would like to correct it. This was just a few days ago.

Can you tell me about the care and attention you take when selecting your N: Our potatoes are local; our eggs are local; our ground ingredients and recipes?

M: We try to use local food as much as we can.

beef is local. We buy local.

What is your approach to customer service?

N: Friendly and honest. In French, we have a saying, à la bonne franquette, which means really simple or unceremonious with no negative connotation—pure and with good spirit. It’s an old phase with a big meaning.

We care about what our customers think and we want

N: We buy quality. That’s the first thing. If you have quality, that’s half the battle.

It sets our cooks up for success. And I tell them to cook with a smile. When they’re not in a good mood, it shows in the food. They can’t always see it, but it’s there.

I also tell our waitress Joanne [Backstrom], if it doesn’t come out looking right, don’t serve it because she is the one presenting to the customer.

Logo design?

Yep. We do that.

As much as possible, we keep high standards. It’s got to come out perfect. If it’s not right, we don’t serve it because we care and we’re honest. Even though we are a simple pizza place, it still matters that our food tastes its best.

What is your “must-try” dish?

N: On Fridays we have our clam chowder, and all our soup is from scratch. We don’t just buy frozen soup and serve that, we make it here in the morning. And we also have fish ‘n chips on Fridays too.

From a business perspective, what have you found works best and what doesn’t?

N: We are always adjusting our menu. I think we need to adjust it more for dinner time. Right now, what keeps us going is our lunch time, especially from the businesses around here that come in, the

owners. That’s nice.

M: We have a promotion for the customers who come here often. It’s called the Vicinity Rewards Program. They get one point per dollar and once they reach a certain number of points they get something.

Four hundred points is a free pizza. They like that. It’s something to look forward to.

Is there anything you would like to add?

We’re not a chain restaurant.

We strive for consistency and top quality, but just like a home-cooked meal, our food is not going to taste the exact same every time. It might be a different batch of potatoes or the cook time was a tiny bit different, but we do want to make sure we live up to our own high standards and the customer is satisfied.

We can be found on Facebook and TripAdvisor.

Come in and try our food.

We’ll take care of you.

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WOW FACTOR

Jennifer Lee | Wow Grill | Peace River, AB

BY TORMAIGH VAN SLYKE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU & MEE

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riginally from South Korea, husband and wife Thomas Shin and Joanne Choi lived in Calgary where they operated a construction business, building mainly commercial buildings. They moved to Peace River three years ago in search of a new life and opportunity, and consequently their construction company built the Best Western Hotel on Peace River’s West Hill.

tools to build a restaurant from scratch.

When the economy slowed down, Thomas and Joanne went into the restaurant business. They had been cooking for a long time and they had the ability and the

Wow Grill opened in September of 2015. The couple’s daughter, Jennifer Lee, moved to Peace River from Mexico shortly thereafter and became a

M OVE UP

Resurrecting a property in downtown Peace River that had been ruined from flood, Thomas and Joanne gutted the long-deserted building and rebuilt it from the ground up. The huge wooden tables are just one among many beautiful features showcasing their craftsmanship and handiwork.

S P R I N G 2 0 1 6 | www.moveupmag.com

managing partner.

Wow Grill is so great that the family-run business has their sights on franchising a second location at some point in the future.

Move Up: Tell me a bit about your restaurant.

Jennifer Lee: Wow Grill is a fast-service franchise focused on a variety of quality Asian dishes. The concept is a casual setting where one can enjoy made-to-order dishes, whether they are dining in or on the go.

We only have 20 items on

the menu and we rotate them seasonally.

What makes your restaurant unique in the Peace Region?

Wow Grill is one of the few Asian restaurants in the Peace Region that offers hot, fresh and delicious food individually prepared in a flaming wok in under five minutes. Oh wait, that’s just us.

We hope to be unique in the sense that one can feel at home when dining with us. Food is important in the restaurant business, but

coming from a hospitality background, I feel that focused service and detailed attention is sometimes more important.

What is your approach to customer service?

Customer service is really easy. If you think of all your customers as friends you have invited over to your house for a dinner party or a lunch, you will always make sure they have exactly what they need—their drinks are never empty, your dining room is in perfect condition and you will see to it that they are at ease.

Most likely they won’t even need to ask you for anything since you will have everything they might need ready and available. You will take excellent care of your guests and be a gracious host.

Can you tell me about the care and attention you take when selecting your ingredients and recipes?

We order as much of our produce locally as much as

we can. The chicken we serve comes from a local farmer who uses all natural feed for the chickens and raises them with no hormones or other unknown injections added to livestock nowadays.

What kind of flavour profiles are you trying to create? Are they inspired by a particular type of cuisine?

We offer Asian-inspired food.

We also make sure all our produce and ingredients have been grown with care and select the freshest ingredients by getting deliveries twice a week.

At Wow Grill you might find sweet tamarind combining with small but spicy chilies of Thailand; or aged soy sauce and Asian pear combining together in the Bulgogi marinade from Korea; or pungent star anise and cinnamon seeping into beef bone broth in the Pho from Vietnam, just to name a few.

All recipes are from my parents. We make the sauces in-house, select fresh and natural local ingredients and do not mess around with additives or MSG commonly found in fast food. The recipes are ours and we’ve perfected them over years of experimenting.

For our orange chicken, we use real oranges and grated ginger. For our teriyaki sauce, we use real grape juice. For our beef Pho, while a lot of places use powder for the broth, we boil real, Alberta beef bones with raw spices for 24 hours. That’s what creates the wonderful, “wow” Pho soup.

From a business perspective, what have you found works best and what doesn’t?

There are many things that work and don’t work in the restaurant business. It’s hard, gruesome, tiring and fickle.

This is a young entrepreneur’s game since you literally need to be physically capable to endure. Even when you give it your all, one dish goes out wrong and that’s it. The customer may never come

Publish this magazine?

Yep. We do that.

back. One off day and you’re ruined.

Consistency and focusing on maintaining excellent service, quality of food and ambiance will make or break you in this industry.

How do you position yourself in the marketplace?

Every market has a niche.

As a business, you cannot please everyone. Wow Grill is beginning to get a firm grip on its “true fans” and we aim to please the heck out of these fans. We will go and be present in where our target market is and anticipate their needs even before they know what they are.

Is there anything you would like to add?

Come check us out in person. We are also active on social media and have lively Facebook, TripAdvisor, Yelp and Instagram pages.

VAULTmedia Creatives for hire. 780-624-1985

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Call us for more information.

Like ike our students, we are bilingual!

READ MOVE UP ANYWHERE, ANYTIME:

www.moveupmag.com 34

M OVE UP

S P R I N G 2 0 1 6 | www.moveupmag.com

Compared to where you came from, how does the Peace Region differ?

Well, quite a lot! Being from the UK, coming here was a little culture shock.

The biggest being how far Peace River is from a big city! I’m used to travelling ten minutes down the road to go shopping. The snow and the cold is definitely something that took a little while to get used to too. I don’t think anything can prepare you for the cold of -30°C!

How long ago did you move up here?

I moved here three years ago in August. Peace River was the first place I came to when I moved to Canada.

Where do you work?

I am the Executive Director and Senior Dance Instructor at the Peace Region Dance Society.

What’s your story? How did you end up relocating to the Mighty Peace Region?

I moved here for my job as a senior dance instructor at the Peace Region Dance Society. I came to visit Canada when I was younger (age 14) and fell in love with the country. I always knew I would come back at some point. After graduating from university, and knowing I wanted to teach abroad, I took my chances applying for a job advertised in Peace River and was fortunate enough to get it!

What was your first impression of the Peace Region?

I was amazed by how incredibly beautiful it was.

Seeing the valley for the first time took my breath away.

At the time, I was feeling a lot of mixed emotions, but after I found my feet in the first few months, I remember feeling like I could make Peace River my home. I knew I had found somewhere that would be special in my life. I also couldn’t believe how kind and generous people from Peace River were.

What surprised you the most about the Peace Region?

I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of talent the dancers have here in Peace River. For a small Northern Alberta town, you guys have some serious talent in the form of dancers!

The way of life here is very different. I love the Canadian lifestyle of working hard, but also having your weekends off to enjoy life. Everything in the UK is very fast pace and competitive all the time.

Coming here showed me to appreciate what I have in life, to enjoy myself, work hard but also have fun.

Apart from that, it’s not so much different, apart from the fact you all sound funny.

What would be your advice to anyone thinking of relocating here?

Don’t be afraid to get out there and get involved in the community. Everyone has always been so supportive and friendly and all it takes is a little effort from you.

In your experience, what is unique about the Peace Region?

Moving here has absolutely changed my life. It’s now where I call home. I am applying for my permanent

residency to make sure I can stay. Without coming here, meeting the people I have met and having the experiences I have, it could have been very different for me.

I have been very fortunate since the beginning with the people that helped me with my move and I will never be able to thank them enough.

They have become a second family to me, I often joke I have a Canadian mom!

Since then, all the other people I’ve met on the way have only solidified that Canada is the place I am supposed to spend the rest of my life. I didn’t expect to stay in Canada forever, but now I can’t imagine not being here. It’s quite an incredible feeling; Peace River will always hold a place in my heart.

RELOCATION STORY

Helen May, 25, moved up to Peace River from Leicestershire, England, UK

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I would love to have my own dance studio! My eyes have been opened to all of the amazing possibilities that I can offer to dancers in Northern Alberta. It’s important to me that dancers of the north have the same opportunities as dancers in the larger cities.

Apart from that, I am not one to plan any further!

I like to go with the flow and see where it takes me.

As long as I am happy, healthy and have my husband by my side; we’ll see! That’s the exciting thing about life.

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M OVE UP

S P R I N G 2 0 1 6 | www.moveupmag.com

GO MIGHTY PEACE Signature Events Campground Guide Rodeo Guide Golfing

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UNLEASH YOUR WILDERNESS.

your off-grid adrenalin rush is calling.

The Freedom to Explore Your WILDERness!

Explore the County of Northern Lights ... experience true freedom! Get caked with mud, get stuck, feel alive amidst big space! Uncover your weekend warrior, get to know your wilder side! www.countyofnorthernlights.com

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

THE MIGHTY PEACE REGION

In partnership with

Endless potential & adventure awaits...

W

elcome to “Go Mighty Peace,” the place to turn for exciting seasonal activities and events in Northwestern Alberta. Go Mighty Peace lays out the fun for everyone.

In the spring/summer section laid out before you, you will discover local golf courses, an extensive campground guide, a jam-packed events calendar and more.

10

YELLOWKNIFE HAY RIVER HIGH LEVEL T MANNING

N

W

GRIMSHAW

MILE ZERO MACKENZIE HIGHWAY

Discover the natural beauty, the endless potential and the exciting opportunities the Mighty Peace Region has to offer.

For more ideas and up-to-date information visit mightypeace.com

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

632 381 180 52

Spotlight

Featured Events

MD of Peace to celebrate 100 years!

Join the MD of Peace No. 135 as they celebrate their centennial on July 16.

The celebration will be held on July 16 at the Lac Cardinal Recreation Area. The day will kick off with a parade at 1pm followed by a afternoon of entertainment for everyone.

Including dancers, musical entertainment, bouncy houses, live demonstrations amd more.

An evening banquet will be held in the Lac Cardinal Hall with cocktails, dinner and music by Northern Aces.

It’s free to attend, but tickets must

by obtained from the MD of Peace Office.

MD of Peace Centennial Celebration July 16 stating at 1pm Lac Cardinal Recreation Area mdpeace.com

Spirit of the north Trade Show and Aurora-Con On May 13 & 14, enjoy a showcase of businesses and organizations from High Level, the Mighty Peace Region and beyond at the Spirit of the North Trade Show.

Held at the High Level Arena, the two-day event features a large sample

of regional businesses, fod court and, new this year, Aurora-Con.

Tournament, Cosplay Contest and more.

Aurora-Con is Northern Alberta’s Comic and Pop Culture Expo.

Aurora-Con will feature guest presenters, artist workshops, Youth Jedi Training, a Magic the Gathering

May 13 & 14 High Level Arena highlevelchamber.com auroracon.wix.com/aurora-con

Hotchkiss Guitar Camp Harness your inner rock star at the Hotchkiss Guitar Camp July 3 - 9.

Located outside of Manning, the camp caters to beginners to advanced musicians. It’s not limited to guitarists either, they offer classes for mandolin, ukelele, fiddle, banjo, vocals and more.

Meet new friends, hone your skills and have fun at the week long camp, which ends with a talent show where you can invite your friends and family.

The fee for Guitar Camp is $275, which includes lessons, insurance and a guitar camp book. BYO meals and snacks. Camping available.

No experience required. The theme this year is “True Colours.”

Hotchkiss Guitar Camp July 3 - 9 manningguitarcamp.com

Town of High Level Stay & Play Golf Package enjoy a 50% discount at the Fox Haven Golf & Country Club

when you book a reservation longer than two (2) nights* at one of our Partners in Tourism Properties *up to a limit of three (3) passes.

Offer valid for the 2016 golf season. see participating properties for more information.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Cleardale Golf Course 5.5 km West of Cleardale | 9 holes

Sand greens and picnic areas.

780-685-2142

Condy Meadows Golf Course 18 km North of Manning | 9 holes, par 36

On-site food and beverage and pro shop. Fully-service campsites available.

780-836-2176 | manning.ca

Fairview Golf Club 113 St., Fairview, AB | 9 holes

On-site food and beverage, driving range and pro shop. Campsites available.

780-835-2844| fairviewgolfclub.com

Fox Haven Golf & Country Club 3 km North of High Level | 18 holes, par 72

Licensed restaurant, clubhouse and pro shop. Serviced and Un-serviced camping available. Most northern 18-hole golf course in Alberta.

780-926-3005 | foxhavengolf.ca

Golfworld on the Peace 9803 101 Ave |18 hole mini-golf

Open May 15 - Sept. 1. Available for parties and private events.

780-624-3222

Heart River Golf & Campground 3 km North of Nampa and 5 km East | 9 holes, par 36

Grass greens, pro shop, clubhouse and driving range.

15 serviced lots and day use area.

780-322-3977 | heartrivergolf.com

YOUR MIGHTY PEACE GOLF GUIDE

Hines Creek Golf Course 3 miles South of Hines Creek | 9 holes

Club rentals, cart rentals, pro shop and camping.

780-494-2217

Mighty Peace Golf Course 16 km west of Peace River | 18 holes

Pro-shop, driving range, lessons, clubhouse and more.

780-332-4653

The Creek Golf Course 11.5 km North of Grimshaw and 1.5 km West | 9 holes, par 36

On-site food and beverage, driving range and pro shop. Campsites available.

780-332-4949| golfthecreek.com

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Campground Notikewin Provincial park

Shady Lane Campground

19 unserviced lots | $17 Camping open May - Oct. 780-624-6486

23 lots (20 with power) $15 or $20 with power & water Camping open May - Oct. 780-971-3973

Located 37 km North of Manning on Hwy. 35, then 30 km East on SH 692. The park is located at the confluence of the Peace and Notikewin rivers. Day-use area.

Located in the hamlet of Dixonville. Flush toilets, group camping, wheel-chair access and pull-through sites.

Little Prairie RV Campground 31 campsites | $14 or $30 with power, water & sewer Open May - Oct. 780-836-3150 Located 3 miles South of Manning. Dayuse area & pull-though sites.

Leddy Lake Recreation Area Year-round access 780-624-8208 Located 24 km Northwest of Peace River.

Electrical hookups and boat launch.

Condy Meadows Golf Course and Campground

35 campsites $28 for power and water Open May - Sept.

780-836-2176

Located 18 km North of Manning on Hwy. 35. Flush toilets & licensed clubhouse.

The Creek Campground

40 campsites | $20 or $30 with power & water Open May - Sept.

780-618-3988

Located 11.5 km N of Grimshaw on Mackenzie Hwy., then 1.5 km W. Day-use area, flush toilets, pull-through sites and group camping. Pets welcome.

Twin Lakes Provincial Park

49 unserviced lots | $23 Camping open May - Oct. 780-624-6486

Located 65km north of Manning on Hwy 35, the recreation area offers camping and many water-based activities including year-round fishing. Boat launch--electric motors only.

Photography by Jeff Bartlett Media

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Guide Figure 8 Provincial Park and Recreation Area 20 campsites | $24 Open May - Oct. 780-624-6486

George Lake 18 campsites (some with power) Camping open May - Oct. 780-494-3820

Located 25 km West of Peace River. Boat launch (electric motors only) and day-use area.

4.5 km south of Hines Creek. Home of the George Lake Music Festival. Boat Launch and large camping stalls. Firepits and firewood available.

Many Islands

Ole’s Lake

24 campsites Open May 15 to Oct. 15 780-685-2437

780-595-2155

Located 24km Southeast of Worsley. Many Islands Music Festival is held here in July. Situated on the Peace River with boat launch.

Running lake Provincial Recreation area 17 campsites (RVs & Tenting) 780-685-2259 8km East, 22km North of Worsley. Boat launch and dock. Electric motors only.

6.4 km South of Hwy 64 (toward AB/BC border). Boat launch.

Stoney Lake

Carter Camp Park

20 sites 780-624-6486

20 campsites 780-494-2222

20km North of Hines Creek. Lake access with boat launch.

Located 25km west of Hines Creek on Hwy 685. Boat launch.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Clear River Campground

sULFUR lAKE Park

Cleardale Campground

780-685-2257

20 campsites

780-835-9403

On Hwy. 64, 20km from British Columbia border.

Aspen Ridge Campground 41 lots | $20 or $30 with power & water or $35 with power, water & sewer. | Camping open May - Oct. 780-926-4540

Located 30 km Northeast of Hines Creek.

Lake access with boat launch.

Fox Haven Golf & Country Club 30 lots (10 serviced) $20 or $30 with services Camping open May - Oct. 780-926-3005

continued...

Campground Guide

Located 1.5km east of Cleardale on Hwy. 64. Rustic camping with large group camping area.

Lac Cardinal Rec Area 16 camping sites | $10 No power or showers mdpeace.com Located 2 miles North and 3 miles West of Grimshaw, along Lac Cardinal. Large Hall with basic amenities available for rent.

Most northern full-service RV Park in Alberta. Day-use area, flush toilets, laundromat, pets welcome.

Weekly rates also available.

Brownvale Ball DIamonds

Elk Island Campground

Queen Elizabeth Prov. Park

10 campsites (no charge) mdpeace.com

12 campsites (no charge) No power or showers Open May to Nov. 780-338-3845

56 campsites (42 with power) 780-624-6486

Located 1 mile west and 1/2 mile north of Brownvale. Ball diamonds & day use area.

Located 18 km West and 21 km South of Berwyn. Campground on the Peace River (on a “good weather� road).

Located adjacent to the Lac Cardinal Rec Area. Beach area, boat dock, bird-watching area, power boating and group-use area.

Boat launch.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Strong Creek Park

Harmon Valley Park and Campground

18 campsites (no charge) No power or showers Open May to Nov. 780-338-3845

Heart River Golf & Campground

17 campsites Open May - Oct 780-624-0013

Located 13 km South of Peace River, along the Shaftesbury Trail. Large day-use area, boat launch.

15 serviced lots Open May - Oct 780-322-3977

8km North of Nampa. Pets welcome.

3km North of Nampa & 5km South

Rendezvous RV Park

Dunvegan Provincial Park

$35/full service or $25 for elec. only | Open year-round 780-618-1345

65 campsites | $34 With power Open May to Oct. 1-877-537-2757

6km from Peace River. Weekly and monthly rates available. Steps away from Cecil Thompson Park with fishing pond and playground. Pets allowed.

21 km SW of Fairview on Hwy. 2. Day use area, whell-chair accessible sites and historic site tours available during summer months.

Pratt’s Landing 12 sites (RV & Tenting) Free Camping Open May - Oct 780-835-4903 32 km West of Fairview

Willow Bay Campground

Peace River Lion’s Club Park

Cummings Lake

20 non-serviced lots 780-625-4749

110 sites (RV & Tenting) $20 or $25 with power & water or $30 with power, water & sewer Open April - Oct. 780-624-2120

28 campsites (with power) $25 with power or $18 Open May - Oct.

Located North of Grimshaw.

Lake access. Pets welcome.

Legend

Located in the Town of Peace River.

Resident Manager and concession on-site.

WILDLIFE VIEWING/ TENTING BIRD WATCHING

CANOEING/ KAYAKING

FISHING

Weekly rates available. Group areas available. Wheelchair accessible. Selfregistration. Baseball diamonds and boat launch.

BEACH

RV STATION

PICNIC TABLES

GOLFING

VOLLEYBALL

WIFI AVAILABLE

WATER TAPS

NO FISHING

HORSESHOE PITS

BIKE TRAILS

SWIMMING

FIRE PITS/ FIREWOOD

PLAY GROUND

PICNIC/KITCHEN SHELTER

SHOWERS

HIKING TRAILS

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Upcoming Events PEACE RIVER FARMER’S MARKETS

10301 101 ST. PEACE RIVER 10-1PM ON SELECT SATURDAYS & WEEKENDS Local vendors, produce, artisan products, baked and canned goods and more!

PeaceRiverFarmersMarket.com

STORY TIME

FRIDAYS AT 10:30AM (UNTIL JUNE 10) SATURDAYS AT 10:30AM PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY For ages 5 and under. A favourite among tots. Story Time followed by activities with Peace Parent Link. | prmlibrary.ab.ca

Free admission courtesy of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees Local 001. peaceriver.ca/museum | 780-624-4261

TD SUMMER READING CLUB

JULY TO AUGUST PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY For ages 4 - 12. Please register by June 29. Keep those young minds sharp throughout the summer. This year’s theme is “wild.” Outdoor activities will be hosted by the library. prmlibrary.ab.ca | 780-624-4076

V

HIGH LEVEL FARMERS MARKET FRIDAYS FROM JULY TO SEPTEMBER FROM 2PM TO 7PM HIGH LEVEL CURLING ARENA 780-247-1625

PEACE RIVER MUSEUM FEATURED ARTISTS OF THE MONTH

PEACE RIVER MUSEUM SUMMER HOURS (JULY & AUG.): DAILY FROM 10AM TO 5PM April: Sew ‘n’ Sews Quilt Guild May: Glenmary students FNMI art June: Eclectic Works from Alain Belzile July: Fish prints by Dave Walty peaceriver.ca/museum

TABLETOP GAMERS

EVERY 2ND AND 4TH THURSDAY OF THE MONTH FROM 6PM TO 8PM PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Bring your own board games or play one from our large selection. All ages welcome.

Free pizza and snacks donated by Domino’s and Mint Health + Drugs. Can’t make the days listed? Drop in anytime with a group during our library hours. prmlibrary.ab.ca | 780-624-4076

FREE ADMISSION TO THE PEACE RIVER MUSEUM THURSDAY EVENINGS IN JULY & AUGUST PEACE RIVER MUSEUM

VOLUNTEER WEEK

APRIL 10 - 17 2016 Cup ‘o’ Joe Volunteer Appreciation Promotion -- Town of Peace River FCSS and Java Domain peaceriver.ca/fcss | 780-624-1000

BEAR AWARE

APRIL 16 FROM 1PM - 3PM PEACE RIVER AG SOCIETY FAIRGROUNDS Bear aware info booths, kids activities, bear spray demonstrations, door prizes and snacks. In partnership with Nampa/ Northern Sunrise County and Alberta Environment & Parks. | 780-625-3287

NORTH WEST REGIONAL SKILLS CANADA COMPETITION APRIL 21 & 22 GPRC FAIRVIEW CAMPUS, FAIRVIEW HIGH SCHOOL AND ST. THOMAS MORE SCHOOL Skills Canada Competitions feature the talents of Alberta’s trade and technology students. Regional Skills Canada Competitions (RSCC) connect students to local post-secondary and industry leaders.

Registration and opening ceremonies on Apr. 21 & Competition Day on Apr. 22. skillsalberta.com/region/north-west

10TH ANNUAL DIXONVILLE’S NIGHT OF COMMUNITY ARTISTS APRIL 22 FROM 7PM TO 9PM DIXONVILLE COMMUNITY HALL Enjoy a night of live music, food and artwork by local artists. countyofnorthernlights.com

HORSE TREKKERS GROOMING BASICS

APRIL 23 FROM 10AM TO 2PM HORSE TREKKING ADVENTURES, CLEAR HILLS COUNTY We welcome you to our ranch to learn the basics in grooming a horse properly and safely. After a long winter the horses will be shedding their coats and will be looking forward to a good spring clean! horsetrekkingadventures.ca

PEACE OF MIND

APRIL 23 AT 1:30PM PEACE RIVER MUSEUM Family fun with Project Peace to create a mindfulness object. peaceriver.ca/museum | 780-624-4261

ENCHANTED FOREST GARDEN PARTY

APRIL 23 PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY In April, we’re hosting events and activities involving faeries, pixies and trolls.

Kids, come to the finale and enjoy a day of games and activities. Ages 4-12. pmlibrary.ab.ca | 780-624-4076

PEACE RIVER AG SOCIETY “WE’VE GOT TALENT” TALENT SHOW

APRIL 23 AT 7PM PEACE RIVER AG SOCIETY FAIRGROUNDS Participate and be eligible for prizes!

Concession on site. Registration required. pragsociety.com

RCMP REGIMENTAL BALL

APRIL 23 BEST WESTERN MIRAGE, HIGH LEVEL highlevel.ca

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Spring/Summer 2016 AUTHOR TALK WITH NANCY MILLAR

APRIL 26 PEACE RIVER MUSEUM In acknowledgement of the 100th anniversary of women receiving the vote in Alberta -- Person’s Case. peaceriver.ca/museum | 780-624-4261

DRESSAGE CLINIC WITH FEI CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR SERGIO VALEZ APRIL 29, 30 + MAY 1 JA HAWKER PAVILLION fairview.ca

PEACE RIVER SCOTTISH SOCIETY DANCE RECITAL APRIL 30 AT 7PM ST. ISIDORE CULTURAL CENTRE

ALBERTA FOREST WEEK

MAY 1 TO 7 MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX Seedling pick up will be at the Multiplex.

780-332-1585 (Tracy or Jori)

MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION

MAY 6 FROM 12PM - 2PM MAMOWINTOWIN HALL, CADOTTE LAKE 780-629-2476

FUN NIGHT GOLF TOURNAMENT MAY 6 FAIRVIEW GOLF CLUB 780-835-2844

FREE STUFF IN FAIRVIEW

MAY 7 FROM 10AM TO 4PM FAIRVIEW Place your unwanted items out in your yard or driveway, then walk/drive around town and collect items you may need for free. fairview.ca

HIGH LEVEL OILMEN’S ASSOCIATION ANNUAL BREAK UP BASH MAY 7 HIGH LEVEL SPORTS COMPLEX highlevel.ca

UKRAINIAN DANCE CONCERT

MAY 7 AT 7PM & MAY 8 AT 2PM ST. ISIDORE CULTURAL CENTRE Refreshments and snacks at intermission.

Raffle prizes.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH

MAY 8 DIXONVILLE COMMUNITY HALL countyofnorthernlights.com

MOTHER’S DAY PANCAKE BREAKFAST

MAY 8 FROM 10AM TO 1PM MARIE REINE CULTURAL CENTRE Breakfast is free with a donation to the food bank. Kid’s craft table on site.

780-814-1042

LUNCH, LEARN, PLAY

HOUSE AND YARD CLEAN UP

MAY 7 FROM 10AM TO 2PM FAIRVIEW Free community-wide drop off at Public Works Yard (10813 111 St.). Enjoy free hot dogs and coffee from 11am to 1pm. fairview.ca

SPRING FLING DANCE

MAY 7 AT 9PM OLD LAC CARDINAL HALL Adults are invited to come dance and enjoy music by DJ Dan Sturgeon. countyofnorthernlights.com

MAY 11 FROM 10:30AM TO 1:30PM MARIE REINE CULTURAL CENTRE Fun activities for parents and children ages 0-6. Light lunch provided. No cost to attend. RSVP required.

To RSVP call 780-624-0770

TURNING SPOILS INTO SOIL

MAY 13 AT 7PM TREE’S AND LILLY’S GARDENS County in Bloom composting workshop. $10 + GST. | countyofnorthernlights.com

HIGH LEVEL SPIRIT OF THE NORTH TRADE SHOW AND *NEW* AURORACON

MAY 13 FROM 4PM TO 9PM MAY 14 FROM 10AM TO 4PM HIGH LEVEL SPORTS COMPLEX New this year is AuroraCon pop culture expo! Guest presenters, artist workshops, cosplay competition, tournaments, collector’s market and more! highlevelchamber.com auroracon.wix.com/aurora-con

PEACE RIVER AG SOCIETY MEMBER APPRECIATION PANCAKE BREAKFAST

MAY 14 FROM 9AM TO 12PM PEACE RIVER AG SOCIETY FAIRGROUNDS Free for paying PRAS members.

Memberships are $5 per person or $10 per family. Come find out what the PRAS has planned for the year and help support them in their efforts. | pragsociety.com

TURNING SPOILS INTO SOIL

MAY 14 AT 10AM AMICIS GARDENS County in Bloom composting workshop. $10 + GST. | countyofnorthernlights.com

COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE MAY 14 MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX 780-332-4005

HORSE TREKKERS BASIC PACKERS WORKSHOP

MAY 14 FROM 10AM TO 3PM HORSE TREKKING ADVENTURES, FAIRVIEW Learn to use and pack different equipment on a horse for a basic pack trip. $150 Lunch and equipment provided.

CAR SEAT CLINIC

MAY 17 FROM 10AM - 12PM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE 780-322-3954

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

GRIMSHAW OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL OPENS FOR THE SEASON MAY 20 GRIMSHAW OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL 780-332-4010

LAC CARDINAL MUSEUM BREAKFAST MAY 21 FROM 9AM TO 11AM LAC CARDINAL PIONEER VILLAGE mdpeace.com

PAT’S CREEK HISTORICAL WALK

MAY 21 AT 1PM PEACE RIVER AG SOCIETY FAIRGROUNDS In partnership with Nampa/Northern Sunrise County Community Services, Alberta Environment & Parks and the Peace River Museum. | 780-625-3287

SPRING INTO ACTION ENGLISH HORSE SHOW & SHOW N SHINE THEORY NIGHT MAY 27 - 29 JA HAWKER PAVILLION, FAIRVIEW fairviewsporthorsesociety.weebly.com

PEACE RIVER AG SOCIETY POKER RALLY AND TRAIL RIDE

MAY 28 AT 12PM PEACE RIVER AG SOCIETY AND FAIRGROUNDS Registration is $20 and includes one poker hand and hotdog weiner roast. Camping and stabling is available. Cash concession on site. | pragsociety.com

HIGH LEVEL FIRE DEPARTMENT’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

JUNE 3 - 5 HIGH LEVEL FIRE DEPARTMENT & HIGH LEVEL SPORTS COMPLEX June 3 is the “Clash of Irons” Firefighter’s Games. June 4 is the HLFD Open House and Firefighter’s Ball formal dinner and dance with music by the TJ Ruckus Band ($50). June 5 is the HLFD reunion breakfast. | highlevel.ca

21ST ANNUAL ABORIGINAL GATHERING AND 13TH ANNUAL POW WOW

KIDS IN BLOOM CRAFT-SHOP

JUNE 12 PEACE RIVER MUSEUM peaceriver.ca/museum | 780-624-4261

JUNE 4 AT 10AM AMICIS GARDENS Please register by May 30. countyofnorthernlights.com 1-888-525-3481

KIDS IN BLOOM CRAFT-SHOP JUNE 5 AT 11AM TREE’S AND LILLY’S GARDENS Please register by May 30. countyofnorthernlights.com 1-888-525-3481

MARCH 28 & 29 JA HAWKER PAVILLION, FAIRVIEW

JUNE 8 FROM 11AM TO 1:30PM MD OF FAIRVIEW ADMINISTRATION BUILDING 780-835-4903

HORSE TREKKERS TACK CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE WORKSHOP

GOOD FOR KIDS GOLF TOURNAMENT

MAY 29TH TO JULY 26 MACKENZIE CROSSROADS MUSEUM AND VISITOR CENTRE Deadline to enter is May 28th. highlevel.ca

JUNE 11 FROM 12PM TO 5PM MILL BROWN PARK, NAMPA In the weather is poor, the event will be moved to the Nampa Complex. Bouncy houses, laser tag, face painting , glitter tattoos, family crafts table, family activities, musical performances and more.

780-322-3954

HEAVY HORSE DAYS

SENIORS BBQ

ANNUAL ART SHOW

NAMPA FARMERS DAY

JUNE 4 & 5 PEACE RIVER AG GROUNDS Free admission, entertainment, crafts, children’s activities, jigging, fiddling, hand games and more! | peaceriveraic.com

SPRING INTO ACTION SCHOOLING SHOW

MAY 28 FROM 1PM TO 4PM HORSE TREKKING ADVENTURES, FAIRVIEW Learn how to properly clean and maintain horse-related equipment. $75 Coffee and snacks and tack provided (BYO, if you have it).

Horse/equipment provided. horsetrekkingadventures.ca

JUNE 11 FAIRVIEW GOLF CLUB fairviewgolfclub.com

OLYMPIANS SWIM MEET JUNE 11 FAIRVIEW AQUATIC CENTRE fairview.ca

HORSE TREKKERS GROUND CONTROL

JUNE 11 FROM 10AM TO 5PM HORSE TREKKING ADVENTURES, FAIRVIEW Learn how to confidently handle your horse from the ground and understand the fundamentals of ground manners. $150 Lunch &

JUNE 11 & 12 CLEAR RIVER RODEO GROUNDS clearhillscounty.ab.ca

ANNUAL PEACE RIVER HERITAGE RUN

PARENT LINK TEDDY BEAR PICNIC

JUNE 16 FROM 10AM TO 12PM PEACE RIVER WATER SPRAY PARK Free tickets available at Parent Link on June 1. For families with children ages 0 6. Bring your Teddy Bears and swimsuits for an interactive good time! Snacks, door prizes and more. | peaceparentlink.ca

OLD TIME COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL

JUNE 17 - 19 CUMMINGS LAKE CAMPGROUND Rain or shine. BYO Lawn Chair. Free open-field camping. Concession. Pancake breakfast on Sat & Sun. $30/weekend, $15/ day pass, $5/seniors (Fri only), 12 and under free.

LAC CARDINAL MUSEUM BREAKFAST JUNE 18 FROM 9AM TO 11AM LAC CARDINAL PIONEER VILLAGE mdpeace.com

SOLSTICE CELEBRATION

JUNE 18 VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN HIGH LEVEL Play Day in the Park, Sale-A-Brate the Sun, High Level Stingrays Swim Meet, Triathlon and Aboriginal Day. highlevel.ca

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

SANDY’S JEWELLERY LADIES OPEN JUNE 18 FAIRVIEW GOLF CLUB fairviewgolfclub.com

COPA’S FLY-IN BREAKFAST AND FAIRVIEW AIRPORT TERMINAL GRAND OPENING JUNE 19 FAIRVIEW AIRPORT 780-835-4903

FATHER AND CHILD GOLF TOURNAMENT JUNE 19 FAIRVIEW GOLF CLUB fairviewgolfclub.com

AURORA BORIELLAS ROLLER DERBY SOLSTICE SLAMMER JUNE 24 - 26 HIGH LEVEL SPORTS COMPLEX auroraboriellasrollerderby.ca

FAMILY GOLF TOURNAMENT

JUNE 25 AT 10AM HEART RIVER GOLF COURSE Bring your kids out for a day on the greens.

All ages welcome. Juniors play for free.

Adults play for $10 each. Nine familyfriendly wacky golf holes, BBQ lunch and door prizes. Call to register your family.

780-625-3287

COUPLES CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT JUNE 25 FAIRVIEW GOLF CLUB fairviewgolfclub.com

HORSE TREKKER’S CAMPFIRE COOKING CLASS

FARMERS AND MERCHANTS GOLF TOURNAMENT JUNE 30 FAIRVIEW GOLF CLUB fairviewgolfclub.com

HOTCHKISS GUITAR CAMP

JULY 3 - 9 OUTSIDE OF MANNING, AB Hotchkiss guitar camp has been running for over 20 years! Along the way it has grown into one of the most loved and appreciated music camps in Alberta, with campers coming from all over western Canada to join in on the wonderment that is Guitar Camp. Registration deadline is June 1 ($275). | manningguitarcamp.com

“CONNECTIONS” OPENING EVENT

JULY 7 FROM 5PM TO 8PM PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Art exhibit, raffle and auction of donated pieces from Peace River artists.

Co-presented by Friends of the Peace River Municipal Library and DMI. Performance by the Circus of Hell. prmlibrary.ab.ca

BEAT THE HEAT MID-SUMMER YOUTH PARTY

JULY 8 GRIMSHAW OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL Free swim, treats, refreshments and lots of fun activities to be enjoyed by all.

780-332-4010

MD OF PEACE 100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

JUNE 25 FROM 2PM TO 6PM HORSE TREKKING ADVENTURES Learn to prepare a three course meal over an open fire. $75 includes supplies and supper.

JULY 16 LAC CARDINAL HALL & RECREATION AREA The MD of Peace is turning 100! Join us for entertainment, evening banquet and dance, treasure hunt, parade and more!

780-338-3845 | info@mdpeace.com

ANNUAL NORTHERN SUNRISE COUNTY CANADA DAY CELEBRATION

PARKS DAY CELEBRATION

JUNE 27 FROM 4PM - 7PM NORTHERN SUNRISE COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS BUILDING BBQ, musical performances, information booths, glitter tattoos, face painting, popcorn and more!

780-624-0013

JULY 16 FROM 2PM TO 4PM 12’ DAVIS LOOKOUT Information booths, glitter tattoos, kids craft corner, local entertainment, snacks and more. | 780-625-3287

LAC CARDINAL MUSEUM BREAKFAST JULY 16 FROM 9AM TO 11AM LAC CARDINAL PIONEER VILLAGE mdpeace.com

S.T.A.R.S. GOLF TOURNAMENT JULY 16 FAIRVIEW GOLF COURSE 780-835-2844

DUNVEGAN OILMEN’S JULY 23 FAIRVIEW GOLF CLUB fairviewgolfclub.com

CHRISTMAS IN JULY

JULY 23 FROM 2PM TO 5PM GRIMSHAW OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL Donations of canned good will be accepted for the Peace River Women’s Shelter.

780-332-4010

“CONNECTIONS” CLOSING EVENT

JULY 28 AT 5:30PM PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Live auction, silent auction and draws for raffle items. Co-presented by Friends of the Peace River Municipal Library and DMI. prmlibrary.ab.ca

HARMON VALLEY RODEO

JULY 29TH TO 31ST STARTS AT 1PM DAILY HARMON VALLEY FAIRGROUNDS Rodeo, concession, family fun corner on Saturday, dance and more.

DRESSAGE CLINIC WITH FEI CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR SERGIO VALEZ JULY 30 + 31 JA HAWKER PAVILLION fairview.ca

HISTORIC DUNVEGAN ANNUAL FRESH AIR MARKET

JULY 31 FROM 11AM TO 5PM HISTORIC DUNVEGAN PROVINCIAL PARK Meet local artisans and explore the products they create. Find the perfect gift or treat. Cash only, please. historicdunvegan.org

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

High Level Local Rodeo

June 11, 2016 | Mosquito Creek (2km East of High Level) Rodeo parade, horse pull, demolition derby, agricultural fair, rodeo dance and more!

High Level Agricultural Exhibition Society

66th Annual Battle River Rodeo

July 21-24, 2016 | Battle River Ag Grounds The oldest and largest amateur rodeo north of Edmonton. Featuring the Western Chuckwagon Assn. GMC Pro Tour Races, Demolition Derby, the Alex Henituik Memorial Slow Pitch Tournament, BBQ, Parade, Food Vendors, Beer Garden, Miss Manning Rodeo and so much more!

BattleRiverAgSociety.wix.com/BattleRiverAgSociety

Fairview Amateur Rodeo

July 22-24, 2016 | Fairview Rodeo Grounds Wildrose Rodeo Assn. Sanctioned Rodeo, local events, children’s events, community events, horse events, livestock events and more. Food Booths and beer gardens on-site. Dance with live music on Fri. and Sat. Fairview Amateur Rodeo

Harmon Valley Amateur Rodeo

July 29 - 31, 2016 | Harmon Valley Fairgrounds Rodeo starts at 1pm daily. Rodeo, concession, family fun corner on Saturday, dance and more!

Harmon Valley Agricultural Society

North Peace Stampede

YOUR MIGHTY PEACE RODEO GUIDE

August 5 - 7, 2016 | Bear Lake Sports Grounds Three full days of racing from Fri. to Sun. pro-rodeo and thoroughbred chuckwagons, barrel racing, team ropers, food booths and west coast amusements midway all weekend.

North Peace Stampede

Redneck Riders Barrel Racing Finals August 13 - 14, 2016 | Fairview Rodeo Grounds Small Barrel racing and pole bending Assn.

NorthernRedneckRiders.com

Lac Cardinal Barrel Racing Series July 1 & 2, 2016 | Lac Cardinal Lac Cardinal Barrel Racing Series Photography by Sharon Krushel

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Mile Z e ro ex l p i lt u M l a n R e gio The Mile Zero Regional Multiplex has been a cherished resource in the Peace Region since it has opened its doors in 2011. In addition to the amazing amenities, the Multiplex has hosted a number of sports tournaments, concerts, training camps and fitness classes.

Be sure to check out this amazing local facility!

Les Shaw Fitness Centre Get your full body workout by using our cardio equipment, strength machines and free weights. Also offered through the gym are “Spin” group exercise classes.

Arena The Multiplex boasts a 200’ x 85’ NHL regulation size ice surface. Seating in the bleachers accommodates 1,000 spectators.

Field House The Multiplex also offers three full size

gymnasium courts. Court markings on each include the following sports: basketball, volleyball, badminton and soccer.

The playing surface is made of pulastic flooring, which is a stable floor system featuring special recycled rubber shock pad for resiliency and ball rebound with superior strength.

Northern Air Walking Track The Northern Air Indoor Walking Track is a three-lane, 175.3 metre track.

Don Stannard Meeting Room The meeting room can accommodate 25 to 30 people comfortably. Everything from meetings to birthday parties are booked weekly in this space.

Pro Shop The on-site pro shop is leased to the Grimshaw Minor Hockey Association.

Concession Canadian Natural Resources Concession and it is leased to Cken’s.

The Mile Zero Regional Multiplex is located at 4609 50 St. in Grimshaw, AB.

780-332-4005 | www.grimshaw.ca For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Northern Sunrise County’s Annual Canada Day Celebration June 27th from 4pm - 7pm | Northern Sunrise County Public Works Building

BBQ, musical performances, information booths, glitter tattoos, face painting, popcorn and more! northernsunrise.net

canada day celebrations

Canada Day at Historic Dunvegan Park July 1st from 12pm to 4pm

Celebrate a significant piece of Canada’s heritage by exploring Dunvegan’s four fully restored historic buildings, playing games, learning a craft, enjoying family entertainment and enjoying a piece of cake. Regular admission fees apply. historicdunvegan.org

Peace River’s canada Day Celebration June 30 at 11:59pm (Fireworks) July 1st starting at 1pm

Fireworks on June 30 at 11:59pm at Riverfront Park. Opening ceremonies and walking/bike parade from the museum to Riverfront Park. The celebrations continue at Riverfront Park with musical entertainment, snacks and family games and activities from 1:30pm to 3:30pm. peaceriver.ca | 780-624-1000

High Level’s Canada Day Celebration July 1st

Bouncers, games, entertainment and BBQ! Celebrate Canada Day and the Grand Opening of Centennial Park highlevel.ca

Fairview’s Canada Day Celebration July 1st

Check the Town of Fairview website for this year’s schedule of events. fairview.ca

Canada Day in Manning July 1st

Check the County of Northern Light’s website for this year’s schedule of events. countyofnorthernlights.com

Canada Day in Grimshaw July 1st

Check out the Town of Grimshaw’s website for this year’s schedule of events. grimshaw.ca

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

A

lbertans have experienced dramatic change in the past year. We have gone from oil at 100 dollars a barrel to 40 dollars a barrel. We have gone from a right wing government to a left wing government, and we have gone from a vibrant economy to a declining economy—and the northwest region of Alberta has not been immune.

It is indeed a difficult time in our province and region.

We have seen the decline in the oil industry and an increase in unemployment and business closures.

Investment in the region is on hold. Developers and investors await the return of the oil market and policy decisions from the new government before they move forward with decisions on whether to invest or retreat.

So, is there a silver lining in this period of change? Well,

perhaps it’s not silver, but at minimum there is a copper lining. As John F. Kennedy once said, “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.”

The situation we are presently facing is our reality. Oil prices are not expected to go up anytime soon and the new government will be around for at least four more years. The move in Alberta to greener energy and a different way of doing businesses is our future and in northwestern Alberta; we will need to embrace that.

Our new reality will require northerners to embrace creative and innovative solutions to stimulate our economy. Opportunities will present themselves in areas of green energy.

Our social infrastructure will see opportunities for development. Arts, culture and tourism will take on

COLUMN

a new priority for our province and region.

We will need to become more creative with the businesses we develop, create and attract. The recent surge in think-local will increase opportunities for smaller, local mom-andpop style enterprises.

In the north we have organizations that can help mentor and support the development of these businesses. With offices in Peace River and High Level, Community Futures (CF) are one such organization.

CFs provides support for developing business plans, provides business development guidance and even offers competitive business loans.

The Regional Economic Development Initiative (REDI) and the Peace Region Economic Development Alliance (PREDA) can help provide research services

to help determine markets and business viability.

In addition, municipal and regional economic development organizations abound in the northwest, perfectly designed to help entrepreneurs through their business making decisions.

It is true that change can be scary, but it is also inevitable. The key to coping with change is to accept it and to move with it, not against it. Kennedy also said, “Let us not seek the republican answer or the democratic answer, but the right answer. Let us not seek to fix the blame for the past. Let us accept our own responsibility for the future.”

DAN DIBBELT | MANAGER, PEACE REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE //

Change is the law of life

Republicans and democrats can be easily replaced with conservatives and new democrats. The point is we will be responsible for the future we create with the changes we face.

#Li fesBetterUpHere | SPRI NG 2 0 1 6 M OV E U P

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WESAHKECAĀHK AND THE CHICKADEES Aboriginal Legend submitted by Billy Joe Laboucan, Chief, Lubicon Lake #453

W

esahkecāhk was the Creator’s helper who protected animals and the earth; he taught people how to treat each other, and Mother Nature, with respect. Some say he is still out there....

like medicine. It cures our headaches, or whatever is making us ill.”

Once upon a time, Wesahkecāhk was taking a walk on a path that led through a stand of poplar trees and willows. He noticed chickadees on the willows laughing and having such a good time.

“No, we can’t show you how to do this Wesahkecāhk because you aren’t a chickadee. And, if you lose your eyeballs, you will go blind. We wouldn’t be able to help you.”

Ever curious, Wesahkecāhk had to see what the chickadees were doing to be so giddy, almost falling over from laughter. As he walked closer, he saw that the chickadees were throwing their little eye balls in the air. The eyeballs would then fall back into their eye sockets and the chickadees would laugh so hard. They would roar with laughter and flap their little wings happily.

Wesahkecāhk, fascinated, watched for a few minutes.

Then he walked up and asked, “Hey little brothers and sisters! Why are you doing that? That looks like so much fun!”

The chickadees didn’t answer right away, and Wesahkecāhk again asked, “Why do you do that?”

To which the chickadees replied, “We are throwing our eyes up like this, it’s

“Oh, my little siblings, you must show me how to do that too!” Wesahkecāhk exclaimed.

But Wesahkecāhk wouldn’t take no for an answer, and said, “Please, please little brothers and sisters, please show me. I can cure myself if I get sick.”

“Well, okay, we will show you Wesahkecāhk, but you must promise that you won’t over do it or you will go blind! We will not be able to help you if that happens,” said the chickadees.

“Yes, I promise.”

Wesahkecāhk said.

The chickadees then showed Wesahkecāhk how to take his eyeballs out, throw them up in the air and how to make them fall back in.

Wesahkecāhk thanked the chickadees and starting walking away. “Remember, don’t overdo it! Or you will go blind,” the chickadees warned him again.

Wesahkecāhk walked a short distance, and said,

“Oh! Oh! I have a headache.

I have to cure myself.”

He stopped and took his eyeballs out and tossed them in the air a short distance.

Then when they fell back into his eye sockets, he felt so good that he shouted, “Yoo Hoo!” And he jumped around and laughed. But that good feeling stopped rather shortly.

Wesahkecāhk continued crying and crawling around as he felt around for his eyeballs. Then a little squirrel heard him, and came running. “What is happening big brother?” he asked.

Wesahkecāhk thought, “If I throw my eyeballs higher, I will probably feel that much better and for longer.” So, again, he threw his eyeballs into the air, higher. And he felt that much better and for a longer period.

“Stop crying! I will help you look for your eyeballs,” the squirrel said.

For the third time, Wesahkecāhk took out his eyeballs, and threw them up much higher. When he did, a gust of wind caught them and blew them away. They landed in the leaves and grass under the trees.

Suddenly, Wesahkecāhk realized that he was blind.

He started crawling around and crying, “I lost my eyeballs. Someone help me!

Help me!” Snot was running down his face along with his tears.

The chickadees heard him pleading for help, but they flew away. They had told Wesahkecāhk that they wouldn’t be able to help if he abused his cure and lost his eyeballs.

“I lost my eyeballs here in the leaves and grass,” Wesahkecāhk cried.

So, they looked but couldn’t find Wesahkecāhk’s eyeballs.

As the squirrel was looking he came close to a spruce tree and saw spruce gum on it. He stopped and pulled some spruce gum and rolled some into a size of an eyeball. Then he made another one, and called out, “Oh, Wesahkecāhk, I have your eyeballs!”

“Bring them here. Bring them here!” Wesahkecāhk cried excitedly.

The squirrel brought the balls of spruce gum to Wesahkecāhk; and he took them and popped them into this empty eye sockets.

“I can see! I can see!” he shouted happily. “It’s a little blurry, but I can see! Thank you little brother.”

And that is why to this very day, when you wake up in the morning, you have gummy eyes!

#Li fesBetterUpHere | SPRI NG 2 0 1 6 M OV E U P

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COLUMN AMANDA FURLONG | COMMUNITY LIAISON OFFICER, SHELL CANADA, PEACE RIVER //

Engage, Embrace & Include

Diversity at Shell

D

iversity is a key driver of innovation and is a critical component of Shell’s ability to be successful. When people are brought together to solve problems in groups, they bring with them a variety of information, opinions, experiences and perspectives.

Shell respects the personal worth, dignity and diversity of each employee. We recognize that a varied set of experiences, perspectives and backgrounds supports innovation and the development of new ideas.

Gender, age, ethnicity, religion are only a few things that make us all different. These traits, among others, shape who we are and how we think.

How many times do people who have influenced us

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enter our subconscious when we’re at work while we are making decisions?

It happens more than we realize.

Like all of our assets around the globe, Shell’s Peace River Complex and the Cliffdale Battery have policies in place that encourage employees to bring forward ideas. We continuously challenge each other and work together to accelerate improvements.

It’s amazing when you look at Shell’s history in Canada and compare it to where we are today. Shell began its first operations in Montreal in 1911 with just six employees and with capital in $50,000. Then, in 1979, the $150 million In-Situ Project began operation east of Peace River.

The words “engage,” “embrace,” and “include”

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are at the heart of diversity at Shell. We engage each other to learn, embrace each other’s differences, and we build an inclusive environment where differences are valued and sought out. Every employee is encouraged to bring their whole self to work, recognizing and celebrating all of the ways in which we differ.

By integrating the values of diversity and inclusion into Shell’s priorities, processes and practices, it becomes deeply embedded in Shell’s culture in much the same way as HSSE (Health, Safety, Security and Environment) is. It’s the “way we do business.”

Energy is vital to our daily lives. Over the coming decades, more people will

gain access to energy and enjoy higher standards of living. At the same time, climate change remains a serious concern. We use human ingenuity, innovation and technology to unlock cleaner energy for the years ahead.

To learn more about Shell Global’s Energy and Innovation, please visit http://www.shell.com/ energy-and-innovation. html.

Do you have an idea or technology that could transform the energy industry? Shell is seeking out original ideas, from the unproven to those ready to deploy. To learn more or to share an idea, please visit http://www.shell.com/ energy-and-innovation/ innovating-together/shareyour-idea.html

j

y l i m a F All I

in the

An inside look at Lavoie Enterprises & Lavoie Ventures

j

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LAVOIE VENTURES

BY JEN JANZEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU & MEE

T

page 60), the grain farming operation became Lavoie Ventures, and a third company, which works hand-in-hand with the dairy farm to produce hay and grain for the cows, became Lavoie Agriculture.

o succeed in business with family, you have to treat it as a business. That’s how Norm Lavoie and his partners have been running their family grainfarming business, Lavoie Ventures, since the late 1990s.

The original farm began in the 1950s, when Norm’s grandparents moved themselves and their 13 children to the St. Isidore area from Québec. The couple relocated to the Peace Region to expand their farm, since land space was limited in Québec. With chickens, pigs and cows, the farm wasn’t dairyspecific at the beginning, but the family eventually chose to specialize in dairy and grain.

“So that people don’t step on each others toes, everyone’s got their own responsibilities,” he said.

The team meets every Monday to plan the week, make policies, plan for equipment and deal with whatever else comes up.

There are seven partners involved, he explains, each with their own portfolio.

His brother Laurent takes care of the shop and equipment. A cousin, Simon, manages crop spraying and transport.

Norm’s job is to take care of growing: fertilizer, seed, rotation, and some of the marketing.

Together, the team farms 12,000 acres with the help of two part-time staff.

Norm’s position with Lavoie Ventures began in 1999, when the original company, which was made up of 58

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a dairy farm and a large grain and animal feed operation, split off into three smaller companies.

“We always say the colony got too big,” Norm jokes.

The dairy portion became Lavoie Enterprises (see dairy farm story on

When the divisions were initially made, the family members got to choose which company they wanted to stick with. Norm chose the grain farm partly because it wasn’t a 365-day-ayear job like dairy farming, and partly because he just likes to grow things.

“I had more interest in the land side of things,” he said. “I love it because it’s like growing a big garden: you plant your seed and you see it grow.”

One of the biggest industry changes Norm has seen has been the advancement of the internet and how quickly information is transmitted.

“Sixteen years ago, it was harder to get information,” he said.

Now, news from around the globe is available at all times. He’ll know, for example, when Russia has a bumper wheat crop or when Wisconsin is going through a drought.

Technology has also lead to equipment innovations and advances in driver comfort. Gone are the days of bouncing around for 12 hours in a sweltering cab, trying to steer your equipment accurately as you simultaneously wipe sweat out of your eyes.

Most modern equipment is outfitted with two comfortable seats. The second is called the “trainer’s seat,” but Norm sometimes brings his kids along for the ride. “They’re really nice cabs.”

They’re also insulated—meaning no dust—and boast the all-important air conditioning.

It’s also easier to drive the new equipment, thanks to GPS and autosteer.

a mustard plant, which are naturally covered with fine hairs, to put into canola seed.

“You sit in the cab and set your line, and you turn when you get to the end of the field.”

“From that, I could get a hairy canola. Bugs wouldn’t be able to eat the plant, so I wouldn’t have to spray insecticide,” said Norm.

Not having to manually steer the tractor over terrain reduces driver fatigue, which means it’s easier to work longer hours.

“At the end of the day, you’re very tired if you’re trying to following the line all day. With the GPS, you’re not tired,” he said.

Part of Norm’s job has also required learning about genetically-modified seed.

“A lot of people are against it, but I think it’s because they don’t know what the facts are,” he said. “If we all went organic, we’d have to destroy more trees and open more land to feed the world.”

Not having to use insecticide means the “good bugs” get to stay.

“As soon as I spray insecticide, I’m killing every bug in the field: good and bad. It’s nice to keep the predators of the bugs that I want to kill. You don’t want to kill bees or the good bugs.”

Together with Lavoie Enterprises and Lavoie Agriculture, Lavoie Ventures is a family business built on generations of hard, honest work. Their commitment to their work and each other is truly inspiring, epitomizing French culture in the Peace Region.

When Norm speaks to other people about genetically modified crops, he uses the example of taking genes from #Li fesBetterUpHere | SPRI NG 2 0 1 6 M OV E U P

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LAVOIE ENTERPRISES

BY JEN JANZEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU & MEE

H

e’s lived in Australia and he’s worked in other Alberta livestock operations, but to Claude Lavoie, there’s nothing like dairy farming in St. Isidore.

the way home from the hospital, his dad, Richard, took newborn Claude along on a herd check.

“The pull of being at home with your cows is stronger than anything else,” said Claude.

Whether it’s nature or nurture, Claude comes by it honestly. His father, Richard, grew up on the dairy farm as well. When the family company restructured in the ‘90s, Richard chose to stay with the dairy operation, which

As the family story goes, Claude was in the barn before he was in the house: just after his birth, on

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“It’s been in my blood ever since,” said Claude.

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became Lavoie Enterprises.

With a dairy career beginning in the 1970s, Richard has seen a lot of changes in the industry.

Many of the evaluations that had to be done manually, like performing tests on cows, are now tracked electronically.

“My dad would be amazed if he could see it now,” said Richard. “Everything is computerized.”

Embryo transplant came on the scene about 25 years ago, and Richard has been using it on the farm— buying and selling—for the last 15 years. He’s keen on improving his head of over 400 registered Holstein cattle, and says the farm boasts exceptional genetics.

Artificial insemination became popular about 35 years ago, and Richard was quick to adopt it. The practice does away with the need for a bull, and all the

cows in the Lavoie herd have been artificially inseminated for many years.

There are even robotic milking machines, known in the industry as a “voluntary milking system” or VMS, that cows will go to on their own.

Modern barns are built in a way that cows are free to enter and leave as they choose. It saves on labour costs, but it also means less stress for the animals.

A large part of the gains made in livestock operations have to do with understanding—and adapting to— animal behaviour.

“You’re working with nature more.

You train the human to work as a cow instead of training the cow to work as a human,” said Claude.

Before the automatic milking machines and changes in barn design, ventilation protocol wasn’t as effective and animals were often tied up most of the time. Richard says dairy farmers are often on the cutting edge of innovation in terms of animal

treatment.

“Everything has changed for the comfort of the animal. The better you treat your animal, the better they rest, and they’ll produce more milk,” he said.

But all the technology in the world won’t take away some of the simplest pleasures of dairy farming. On a slow day, Claude will often spend time among the animals, letting them get used to his presence, observing the different characteristics of each cow.

Eventually, he says, if you’re patient enough, the cows will recognize you and you can start to build a relationship with some of them.

“It doesn’t return anything to the farm, but I enjoy it,” said Claude. “You do other work, but nothing puts a smile on your face more than being on a farm, being outside, being able to be home with your kids and family every night; there’s nothing that beats that.”

If Richard has any advice for

somebody keen on entering the dairy world, it’s to know beyond a doubt that you want to do it, and to be very determined.

“The buildings and all of the equipment are very expensive,” he said, adding that you also have to apply to the Alberta Milk Board and adhere to the guidelines set out by the inspector.

“We’re producing a perishable product so there are some rules you have to follow.”

Claude doesn’t know if his children will take up the family business—his daughter is only four years old—but, on the way home with his daughter from the hospital, Claude made sure to stop at the farm before bringing her home.

“I had to introduce her to the cows,” he said.

Just like his dad before him, he did his herd check with his newborn in his arms.

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THE WITNESS BLANKET

Putting Residential Schools in Perspective

BY HOPE REGIMBALD WITH TORMAIGH VAN SLYKE | PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

T

here are an abundance of First Nations and Métis communities in the Peace Region, but many of us haven’t truly explored real Aboriginal history, specifically the cultural devastation caused by assimilation and Indian residential schools. It’s not because we don’t care; in many cases it’s because the opportunity to learn was not presented to us in school or otherwise, at least not in a way that didn’t incite a level of fear or guilt. We owe it to ourselves to set fear and guilt aside so we may be able to keep a compassionate open mind and learn how to love.

The Witness Blanket In July and August, we in the Peace Region will get the opportunity to learn about the humbling history of Indian residential schools, as The Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre and the Peace River Correctional Centre will both host the acclaimed national art exhibit, “The Witness Blanket.”

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The exhibit will come to the museum in Peace River straight from Winnipeg’s Canadian Museum for Human Rights thanks mainly to the Sagitawa Friendship Centre and the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre.

Described as, “A blanket with the sole purpose of standing in eternal witness to the effects of the Indian residential school era,” the Witness Blanket was strewn together by Master Carver Carey Newman and is expected to be an extremely powerful tool for education and healing. It is a humongous, 40-foot display adorned with over 800 objects taken from residential schools across Canada.

To gain some perspective about Indian residential schools and the importance of The Witness Blanket, we had the honour of speaking with survivor, councillor and esteemed Elder Dave Matilpi.

“The Witness Blanket is going to be a powerful, powerful display. Each object

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carries its own stories. The purpose of the blanket, the history of the blanket and the spirit of the people that are going to visit this display are going to pull out a lot of emotions—memories of genocide,” said Matilpi.

Dave Matilpi’s wisdom and perspective are ever humbling and enlightening. Whether it’s for students and youth, company employees or jail inmates at the Peace River Correctional Centre, Matilpi’s courage to share his story and insight, his “Broken Journey,” creates a rippling effect of healing for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.

“When I talk about my Broken Journey, it’s about bringing generations back together. The Witness Blanket will do that also,” said Matilpi.

Matilpi is really excited for the arrival of The Witness Blanket because he believes everyone will gain so much knowledge about the schools through the stories.

“I believe The Witness Blanket is going to be like royalty visiting, like the ghost of Sitting Bull or something, and so all the native people are going to want to be there for this. It will be a resurrection of the White Buffalo Calf. It’s going to bring so many of our people beyond that hurting place,” said Matilpi.

Matilpi says he is really glad that as a community, we’ve been actively preparing for The Witness Blanket.

“It’s going to open a lot of hurtful memories. For the first time, sons and daughters and grandchildren will see.

It will be, at that moment, the first time that the stories will come out—whether it be in words, whether it be in tears, whether it be anger, swearing—so we plan to have mental health councillors onsite,” said Matilpi.

More important to Matilpi, there will be one or more tipis at the exhibit “with our traditional medicines where people can sit, talk and share in our traditional ways. It’s

important because the people in the tipis will be able to get what’s going on, and there’s always that instant trust in our circles where you feel free—to cry, to share and to expose love because love is a very hidden thing in our people who have attended these schools,” said Matilpi.

Matilpi says the Witness Blanket will allow people to express hidden love that has been exposed in an angry way.

“That’s all we’ve known from these schools—discipline and anger, discipline and anger, authority, authority, family separation, family breakdown, parental shame and with that we found our healing in the only way we knew, the way we were taught—sexual abuse, physical abuse, oral abuse—and that’s all going to be a part of the spiritual connection at the display,” said Matilpi.

One of The Witness Blanket’s many artifacts is an entire door from the residential school Matilpi attended, St. Michael’s (Alert Bay) Residential School.

“I just found this out two weeks ago. I thought to myself, ‘I thought that was over.’ It’s going to be amazing what this door does when I walk through it,” said Matilpi.

The Hard Truth—A Brief Overview of Residential Schools According to Matilpi, many of the things that happened in the Indian residential schools aren’t well known.

“They would abuse us for not eating, but we couldn’t digest this foreign porridge, grain food. As a traditional child, you were used to wild meat, fruit and vegetables, and all of a sudden you have this powdered milk food your stomach couldn’t digest,” said Matilpi.

Some of the atrocities are so great, they can be simply unbelievable, and many have actually rejected their validity.

“A lot of stuff never made it into the history books. Aside from the physical and mental abuse, there were experiments being done, biological experiments—making us sick on purpose,” said Matilpi. “They used twins to see how one would do over the other.”

Dave Maltipi, elder and residential school survivor Supported by the federal government, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) is dedicated to informing Canadians about what really happened in Indian residential schools.

run Indian residential school, Gordon’s School in Punnichy, Saskatchewan, closed in 1996, and was subsequently demolished, marking the end of the residential school era.

According to the TRC, residential schools were part of federal legislation to assimilate Indigenous children into mainstream Canada for more than 120 years. They were in operation preConfederation but were most active following the Indian Act of 1876.

While some schools were managed by the federal government, some were managed by the church. Roman Catholic, Anglican, United, Methodist and Presbyterian churches were the major denominations involved in the administration of the residential school system.

According to the Legacy of Hope Foundation, the earliest recognized and longest-running Indian residential school was the Mohawk Institute, in Brantford, Ontario, which operated from 1831 to 1962. The last federally-

Inside the schools many atrocities were imposed on the children; mental, physical, emotional, and sexual abuse were rampant. Out of sheer necessity, graveyards were commonly created onsite. #Li fesBetterUpHere | SPRI NG 2 0 1 6 M OV E U P

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Matilpi would leave his family to become homeless on the streets of Vancouver.

According the Justice Murray Sinclair,

“I graduated out of that system unable to fit anywhere. Not in my home community, not able to fit in society… and so I ended up with hundreds of others like me on Hastings Street in East Van—all of us looking for something that had been lost or broken,” said Matilpi.

Like many residential school survivors, Matilpi struggled with substance abuse.

CAREY NEWMAN, MASTER CARVER AND CREATOR OF THE WITNESS BLANKET the Chief Commissioner for the TRC, the federally operated schools account for 150,000 children—he estimates there were many more not accounted for during the TRC process due to various church groups having inaccessible information. Of the 150,000 students that are accounted for, at least 6,000 died while in the system and countless died before their time thereafter.

Corroborating Matilpi’s claims, recent research has uncovered that experiments related to starvation and food were implemented on children at residential schools. It is estimated that one in 25 children who attended the schools died while in their system and the majority of survivors left with lifelong trauma.

Institutionalized racism outside the schools In addition to the awful environment the children were exposed to during the residential school era, it is important to note the parents and families of the children were also facing intense institutionalized racism.

“The Indian Act became the rule book for how we can treat Indians. And, in that act, the government and the churches and the authorities agreed if a child does not go to school or if a child runs away and the family does not put them back in the school, the parents automatically—no questions asked, no court case—get put in jail,” said Matilpi.

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According to the TRC, physical displacement of children from traditional territories was often used to further “extricate children from their culture.”

In the Peace River area specifically, entire First Nations communities were relocated, as per federal legislation, to accommodate a proper distance between parents and children. The “Pass System,” which was introduced in the 1880s, made it impossible to leave the boundaries of the reserves. According to oral history in the Peace Region, these laws were enforced locally until the 1960s.

It was illegal for Indigenous people to conduct spiritual practice, to gather in groups larger than a few people, and to obtain any sort of legal representation.

Graduating Indian Residential School Matilpi refers to his story as his “Broken Journey” because, he says, when he arrived home after surviving Indian residential school, he had lost his path.

“When I came out of residential school, I had a broken relationship with my family. I mocked them and laughed at them. I mocked and laughed at all the traditional things—the language, the drum the food, everything.” said Matilpi. “So, I don’t belong with my family; I don’t belong in the European world. Thousands of us walked this journey,” said Matilpi.

“When I left, I started drinking. From the first drink, it was blackout, blackout, blackout. I didn’t drink for comfort, I drank because it made me feel good and I totally forgot about everything, but I became a total idiot, an embarrassment.

So when I left home, I never went back.

Twenty-five years went by,” said Matilpi.

“I threw away 25 years and the whole time my parents loved me but I didn’t know how to receive their love.”

The Aftermath According to the Legacy and Hope Foundation (LHF), abusive behaviors learned from Indian residential schools has led to a “cycle of abuse and trauma from one generation to the next.

Individuals who have suffered the effects of traumatic stress pass it on to those close to them and generate vulnerability in their children. The children in turn experience their own trauma.”

The LHF explains that the consequences of forced assimilation are still with us, whether we like it or not, and “the need for healing does not stop with the school survivors—intergenerational effects of trauma are real and pervasive.”

“It’s not just the mother, the father, the grandmother, the grandfather. It has affected families for generations. It has taken us four generations of residential schools to get us to where we are today, so a simple apology is not going to get us onto a healing path. I think it’s going to take us two or three more generations before this is totally behind us, if we’re lucky,” said Matilpi.

Matilpi says it’s a common misconception that reconciliation can happen quickly, with a simple apology.

“I had my own son say that to me, ‘why don’t you people get over it?’ not realizing what we had gone through,” said Matilpi.

Reconciliation and Resilience Today, Matilpi counsels youth and witnesses young people— of all races—uniting without discrimination.

“We didn’t have that when we were young. We had racism and prejudice, but I see a lot of young people now, educated, walking in friendship, walking together without hierarchy. It doesn’t matter for them as much as it did for us,” said Matilpi.

What Matilpi has been able to overcome in his life is nothing short of incredible.

“I’ve been lucky enough that I’ve moved ahead. I did dwell on it. I did get angry. I did get drunk. I did get in trouble. I did go to jail, but today I walk sober; I walk in our traditional way. There’s still a lot of old habits that I carry though,” said Matilpi.

A common theme related to reconciliation and residential school survivors is the extraordinary resilience found in Canada’s Indigenous people. In spite of the astounding attempts to eradicate an entire people through cultural genocide, there is an immense capacity for love, and healing especially through returning to culture.

“We are a beautiful people. You look at our artwork, our women, our families, our traditions and we’re a beautiful race of people but unfortunately we’re lost in between our purpose and the purpose somebody else wanted to put on us,” said Matilpi.

According to Matilpi, an act of resilience for the next generation is to “get to know who you are, your nation, and your purpose.

Couple that with education and you will go places. Stay connected with your family. That’s the really important thing.”

Matilpi believes The Witness Blanket will help to unite native and non-native people by providing insight and perspective on Indian residential schools.

“There is a purpose—a healing purpose and a unity purpose,” said Matilpi.

Dave Matilpi is a survivor of residential schools; he is a counsellor, a teacher, and an esteemed Elder. His broken journey is a story of hope, healing, reconciliation and resilience. His path will surely light the way for future generations.

“My grandchild and my grand daughter in-law and their baby live with me and I bear witness to their love all the time. I remember I said to my great grandbaby when I saw him at the hospital for the first time, I said to him, ‘You’re free, my boy.’ I didn’t know why I felt the need to say that at the time, but then when I was sharing my broken journey days later, it hit me. He’s free because he will know how to love,” said Matilpi.

The Witness Blanket will be featured at the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre in July and August, 2016.

For more information, visit peaceriver.ca/museum On Saturday May 7th as part of the Catholic Church commemorating their 100th anniversary in the Peace River area there will be a “Moving Forward” event dedicated to reconciliation. It will be at the Catholic Conference Centre from 9:30 am to 4 pm. To RSVP contact Bonnie at (780) 6242635.

“The Survivors acted with courage and determination. We should do no less. It is time to commit to a process of reconciliation.”

Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Final Report

If learning about residential schools through this article has impacted you, and you would like learn more, here are some ways you can get involved in active reconciliation in the Peace Region and across Canada: Ask a teacher if they include this topic in their classroom, The Legacy of Hope Foundation can provide free materials to help educators teach youth about the impacts and legacy of the residential school system.

Spread the Word. Talk to others. Ask your family, friends or colleagues what they know about the residential school issue. You can learn more by visiting www.legacyofhope.ca Visit and volunteer with your local friendship centre, community group, Aboriginal organization or Aboriginal health/resource centre.

• The Peace River Aboriginal Interagency Committee meets on the third Tuesday of every month. Contact Wendy Goulet for details: Wendy.Goulet@gov.ab.ca For more information, visit these websites: Truth & Reconciliation Commission www.trc.ca Project of Heart www.projectofheart.ca Aboriginal Healing Foundation www.ahf.ca Legacy of Hope Foundation www.legacyofhope.ca

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RELOCATION STORY

What surprised you the most about the Peace Region?

This is going to sound crazy, but I was mesmerized by the canola fields. Canola fields to me are incredibly beautiful and something I had never seen before coming to the Peace Region.

Compared to where you came from, how does the Peace Region differ?

Alana Souter, 27, moved up to Northern Sunrise County from Vancouver, BC How long ago did you move up here?

I have been up here for just over a year. Wow, time flies!

Where do you work?

I wear a couple of different hats. I am contracted through The Grimshaw & District Chamber of Commerce, The Alberta Pond Hockey Association and Mighty Peace Tourist Association, where I do marketing, event coordination and web design. I am a connector by nature and community is a passion of mine. I also run my own business called Fang Trading Post where I build unique objects out of reclaimed natural world elements.

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Where do I start?

Everything is different. The sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking here. Due to light pollution in the city I don’t think I had ever seen the stars and moon like I have here.

What would be your advice to anyone thinking of relocating here?

Buy a pair of Mukluks for the winter.

How do you entertain What’s your story? How did out-of-town guests? What you end up relocating to are some must-try Peace the Mighty Peace Region?

Region experiences?

A few years ago I came to the Peace Region to watch the jet boat races with my best friend from Vancouver who used to live out here. I ended up meeting Felix Bergeron, my now boyfriend, who was just as crazy and weird as me and the rest is history.

What was your first impression of the Peace Region?

My first impression was how friendly, laid back and creative the people were. I use to count the number of people my boyfriend would wave to on a drive down to Peace River.

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Walk across the train bridges in Peace River, hike up to the flag pole on the east hill, canoe, sleep under the stars and be sure to never miss a sunrise or a sunset.

Have you had any wildlife encounters since you’ve been here?

We are always outside, so I have had many. This one tops them all though: A couple weeks ago we were snowboarding at Misery Mountain. While I was ripping down the hill a giant moose ran out of the bushes right in front of me.

I could not stop laughing. I was speechless.

What is your ideal Sunday in the Peace Region?

My ideal Sunday would be spent with my boyfriend and his two little girls, Madyson and Myley, exploring the Peace Region in the side by side and ending the day with a fire.

What is your ideal night out/date night in the Peace Region?

I love connecting and surrounding myself with people. My ideal night out would consist of a gathering of friends and family at our house. I am Italian so there would be lots of food, wine, loud conversations and hand gestures.

What is your favourite spring activity in the Peace?

I would have to say ice fishing. Ice fishing is a great way to experience the fresh Peace Region air and scenery. It’s a great way to experience the culture and tradition of Canada. This was completely foreign for me and something everyone should try at least once in your life.

In your experience, what is unique about the Peace Region?

The raw, untouched natural beauty.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I try not to think that far ahead.

THE QUEST Energy improves and enriches our lives in countless ways. In many places around the world, energy keeps people alive.

But that simple relationship between energy and our way of life is changing. In this century, we have to figure out how to produce more energy with less carbon.

Lower carbon forms of energy will continue to play a greater role in our lives. But as long as hydrocarbons are demanded for energy we have a responsibility to learn how to reduce the CO2 generated by hydrocarbons.

This is why we believe in the potential of carbon capture and storage to help address climate change.

With our co-venturers Chevron and Marathon and the support of the Governments of Alberta and Canada, we have just started up the first carbon capture and storage facility in the oil sands.

We call this project Quest.

Quest will safely capture and store more than one million tonnes of CO2 underground each year.

This is equivalent to the annual emissions of about 250,000 cars.

We know this is just the beginning but it’s part of a growing global number of carbon capture and storage projects.

There is a long and challenging road ahead of all of us.

But we are committed to the Quest. www.shell.ca/quest