Move Up Issue 12

ADVANCED PARAMEDIC

NEW SERVICE GIVES SENIORS INDEPENDENCE

Local Features

TAKE ONE

News

KUESTER TRUCKING

DIXONVILLE BUSINESS IS IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL

Events

GO MIGHTY PEACE

TRAVEL & EXPLORE THE PEACE REGION

Opportunities

BIG PROJECTS

IN THE PEACE

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FALL EDITION 2016

►

Contents >> VOLUME XII

PUBLISHERS

Tormaigh Van Slyke | hello@moveupmag.com Jenelle Van Slyke | hello@moveupmag.com EDITORS

Jenelle Van Slyke Tormaigh Van Slyke ADVERTISING SALES

Tormaigh Van Slyke LAYOUT DESIGN

Aimie Williams Tormaigh Van Slyke Jenelle Van Slyke

p. 24

AD DESIGN

BIG PROJECTS

IN THE PEACE

Aimie Williams PHOTOGRAPHY

Paul Lavoie Images, You and Mee, Tyrell Parenteau, Tormaigh Van Slyke WRITERS

Community Futures Staff, Dan Dibbelt, Billy Joe Laboucan, Francine LaRocque, Rodney Majaya, Drew Rogers, Jenelle Van Slyke, Tormaigh Van Slyke, Talena Winters 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.

MOVE UP IS A PROUD OF MEMBER OF THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS

APL’s NEMT Fosters Independence, Peace of Mind

Also >> 08

Builing A Bridge To A Better Future

22

Kuester Trucking

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Moose Transformational Dream

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Selling Your Small Business

PREDA

PEACE REGION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE

p. 18

Lubicon Lake Band & industry program a win/win

Dixonville company is in it for the long haul

An Aboriginal Legend

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL LAVOIE IMAGES

6 tips on how to ensure a smooth transition #Li fesBetterUpHere | FALL 2 0 1 6 M OV E U P

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NEWS

be displayed anonymously as an exhibit and will be the backdrop to an Evening for Professional Networking at the Chateau Nova on November 4th, where we will discuss how family violence impacts our community and how we can support and work better together.

Art Exhibit in honour of Family Violence Prevention Month

By Francine LaRocque, Administrative Coordinator and Group Therapy CoFacilitator, Stepping Up

“Life is not a solo act. It’s a huge collaboration, and we all need to assemble around us the people who care and support us in times of strife.”

- Tim Gunn In honour of Family Violence Prevention

Month, the Peace River Community Collaborative Group will be hosting an evening for professional networking and an open house at the Chateau Nova in Peace River in early November.

November is Family Violence Prevention Month in Alberta

and to honour this, the group is hosting a series of art therapy workshops for those impacted. Art therapy empowers and gives a voice to share message and stories with others.

It promotes the process of expression, self-observation and mind-body connection. The art created will

The theme for the event is ARCCS— Aware, Respond, Connect, Compassion and Safety. Displays of the art work are meant to inspire and encourage people to do just that—be aware, respond, connect, show compassion and create safety for those experiencing family violence.

There will also be an open house on Saturday, November 5th at the Chateau Nova from 10am2pm—all are welcome to attend.

Please help us build a community where we actively work together toward a future free of family violence and where those impacted are recognized for their strength and resiliency.

Established in 2015, the Peace River Community Collaborative Group work to provide comprehensive and collaborative support and service management to complex and high risk family violence cases. The group is represented by a number of service agencies in the area such as North Peace Society for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (Stepping Up), Child and Family Services, Probation, RCMP, Peace River Women’s Shelter, Victim Services, Mental Health and Alberta Works.

photo submitted by the town of Peace River

Town of Peace River

first holes dug for new rec centre

a

fter years of talk and planning, the first work began at the site of the replacement for the Baytex Energy Centre.

In August, bore holes were drilled on site to conduct a geotechnical survey of the area where the new multi-sport rec centre will be located.

While only preliminary work, the geotechnical survey is an important step. Sonic equipment was used to capture critical ground composition data from depths of more than 14 metres.

With the survey work wrapping up, detailed designs are expected next.

There is still much work ahead with eighteen months of construction still to be underway.

October 2016 – Design Showcase In the middle of the month, date TBA, a design showcase will give residents their first look at what the facility will look like.

Early 2017 – Tendering By the end of the 2016, the budget and design will be finalized and signed off on. This will allow the permit and tendering process to begin in early 2017.

Spring 2017 – Begin Build This stage is dependent on weather and other conditions for a start date, however, ideally shovels would be in the ground for May of 2017.

Late 2018 – Complete Construction, open facility Specific dates for the opening of the facility will be confirmed during the construction process, however, we anticipate about 18 months of construction.

Want to Help Out?

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e are seeking community-minded people who wish to help make this facility sparkle by addressing issues such as naming rights, sponsorship, advertising and donations.

Members will be needed for a fundraising committee that will focus on adding the polish to this building. If you’re interested in being a part of this, please email feedback@peaceriver.ca or contact the Town of Peace River municipal office.

Adam Dietrich Communications Coordinator Town of Peace River

ADVERT ISE ME N T

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NEWS

Staying current while preserving the past has been the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre’s ongoing goal—a challenge for any organization and now they have been awarded for their efforts with the Robert R. Janes Award for Social Responsibility, a prestigious award from the Alberta Museums Association.

Peace River Museum Wins Prestigeous Award Centre received the Robert R. Janes Award for Social Responsibility at the Alberta Museums Association Conference in Calgary.

Submitted by Adam Dietrich, Town of Peace River

O

n September 16, staff from the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie

West Fraser and Paddle Prairie Announce Strategic Initiative

West Fraser and Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement (PPMS) announced August 22 that they have entered into a Strategic Initiative Framework Agreement. Under the agreement, PPMS will

Over the last five to six years, Alberta’s museums have been working to shift gears from merely being repositories of historical documents and objects, to taking on a more contemporary community role.

They are becoming active community participants working to foster stronger communities by contextualizing history and heritage.

invest in West Fraser and both parties will work toward providing education, training and skills development to PPMS members with the goal of providing full-time employment

“Instead of museums working in isolation, through these community partnerships and cooperation, they’re becoming integral to a community’s well-being,” said Museum Coordinator, Laura Gloor.

In Peace River that means not shying away from the difficult topics that have defined the region historically. Whether it be furs and the fur trade, residential schools or the internment of Ukrainian Canadians.

“For our museum, our journey began around five or so years ago when we featured an exhibit on Ukrainian internment in Canada during the First World War,” said Gloor.

“It was our first foray into examining and contextualizing contentious topics.”

opportunities in the forest products industry.

PPMS is a former owner of Manning Diversified Forest Products, which West Fraser acquired late last year.

READ MOVE UP ANYWHERE, ANYTIME:

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NOV. 1 through

PASSPORT

DEC. 16

-to-

Ch ristmas SHOPPING EVENT

SHOP

LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS

offering our e b to d e it c x e is ing promotion! p p o h s y a d li o h annual

Enter to Win $2,500 this Christmas in 3 Just Easy Steps:

1 Pick up a passport at any participating business (begins on November 1, 2016) 2 Receive one stamp on your passport for every $10 you spend at a participating business 3 Add your contact info to the stamp-filled passport(s) and drop it off at a designated business Enter as many passports as you can!

The Early Bird prize of $500 will be drawn on November 25, 2016 during Moonlight Madness at the Stuff a Bus event. The Grand Prize of $2,500 will be drawn on December 16, 2016.

Passport to Christmas emphasizes our "Shop Local" motto.

The winner will select the participating businesses where they would like to redeem their prize, and the Chamber of Commerce will issue a cheque payable to the business(es).

For contest rules, please visit www.peaceriverchamber.com

Good Luck and Happy Shopping!

Mark your calendars: Peace River's Candy Cane Lane Christmas Parade is scheduled for November 25, 2016

See you all there!

Contact the Chamber: Phone: 780-624-4166 or Email: assistant@peaceriverchamber.com #Li fesBetterUpHere | FALL 2 0 1 6 M OV E U P

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INDUSTRY FEATURE

The 2016 ASOKAN integrated training employment program class at graduation

BUILDING A BRIDGE TO A BETTER FUTURE Innovative training program a win/win for Lubicon Band members and industry

By Talena Winters

W

hen Rod Debolt, Director of Operations at Northern Cross Oilfield Services (NCOS), was given the opportunity to make a longlasting positive impact on the Peace Region in the form of a work training program for members of the Lubicon Lake Band, he jumped at the chance.

In 2015, Amber Armstrong, a member of the Steering Committee for the ASOKAN Integrated Employment Training Program, asked NCOS to be their training provider for the program’s second batch of students. Four days later, fifteen young men and women were donning hard hats and welding gloves to begin the 10-month program that would prepare them to enter the workforce.

The ASOKAN program is one facet of the long-term developmental vision Lubicon Lake Band Chief Billy Joe Laboucan has for his people. With

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the support of his progressive council, Chief Laboucan has partnered with the Alberta government and a long list of local project partners to make this opportunity available to the members of the Aboriginal community of Little Buffalo.

“ASOKAN” means “bridge” in Cree, and building bridges is a very apt metaphor for what this program aims to do: give Little Buffalo residents skills that make them highly employable in fields that will benefit both the First Nations community and the Peace Region as a whole. “[Chief Laboucan] understands adversity and the challenges of a nation that has had to overcome many hurdles,” Armstrong explains.

“He also recognizes that his people have the ability to not only achieve personal success, but will contribute to the Band’s success in a very united way.”

Amber Armstrong has been on the program’s committee from its inception in 2012, representing the first corporate partner to come onboard, Daishowa-Marubeni International Ltd. Peace River Pulp Division (DMI). Also on the committee are Training Coordinator Darlene McRee and Band Manager Tracy Laboucan. Besides DMI, other project partners* have come alongside to provide funds, equipment, training and more.

The first dozen students, ages 18 and up, were selected from a group of forty applicants and began the program in 2014. Ten months later, they all graduated. In the program’s second year, all but one of the fifteen participating students graduated.

Several now hold permanent positions with NCOS and other local businesses.

a “sink or swim” training model, and unless someone is very ambitious or has a visual learning style, they will usually sink, which doesn’t benefit anyone.

“I’m very thankful the people involved in the program’s selection process were willing to give me a chance. There’s also Nels and Rod, I want to thank them for giving me the opportunity to work for the company,” said Auger.

Every year, the program has been refined to incorporate more skills considered beneficial for individuals and the Little Buffalo community.

Now going into its third year, the program has been revised to add a forestry element.

The female students were surprised at how much they enjoyed learning skills like welding and mechanics.

Kristensen pointed out that even if they end up doing administrative work, knowing what happens in the shop will make them much better at their jobs.

A key component of the program is employment training, which is where training partners like NCOS come in.

“They came here right after their orientation, and they were expected to have brought a lunch. They have their start time, their fifteen-minute coffee breaks, their lunch break and their end time. Things are structured here and we stress the importance of being on time,” said Nels Kristensen, Operations Manager at NCOS. Debolt was thrilled for NCOS to be involved in the program as it aligns perfectly with his personal philosophy of building up the community and bringing everyone up with him.

“Our long-term vision is to utilize people in our own area. It helps our community and makes us all stronger,” said Debolt.

Kristensen concurs, “It sounds like a Hallmark card, but it really is a vision.

[Debolt] is a driving force.”

The two have been very pleased with the results of their involvement last year and plan to continue partnering with the program for many years to come.

According to Debolt, when the oilfield industry is busy, it’s difficult to find time to train personnel, resulting in

Joseph Auger, a second-year student who joined after his cousin told him about her experience in the program, loves that he got to learn such a variety of skills. He now works for NCOS, which suits him fine since he still gets to learn something new almost every day.

The current slowdown was the perfect opportunity for NCOS to become involved and create skilled industrial workers, but the students weren’t the only ones who benefited. Debolt and Kristensen chose extremely proficient tradesmen among their staff (many of them also First Nations) to train the students. At first, some of the instructors weren’t so sure they were cut out to teach, but they soon changed their minds.

“Every one of those guys had almost the exact same word-for-word comments,” said Kristensen. “‘Man, I can’t believe how good those guys are. It felt good to train. It felt good to teach,’ so they took something away from it, too.”

Partnering with the ASOKAN program was a natural fit for Debolt, whose family has a long history of working with and employing First Nations people. His grandfather homesteaded near St. Isidore in 1920, and his grandfather and father frequently employed members of the Little Buffalo community to run their farm and sawmill. Many of those men are now elders, so the working relationship with the community remains very strong.

INDUSTRY FEATURE

Students are given basic training in manual skills like carpentry, electrical work, welding, small engine repair, plumbing, mechanics and more.

In addition to getting safety tickets and basic first aid training, they also receive instruction in life skills like how to write a resume, how to behave on a jobsite or in an interview, how to resolve conflicts, computer basics, traditional parenting, stress management, goal setting and many other important areas.

It takes many pieces to build a bridge; it takes many people to build a community; and it takes people of vision who are willing to give themselves for the betterment of others to build lives. Thanks to the vision of Chief Billy Joe Laboucan, the support and involvement of the project’s partners and the students’ eagerness to improve themselves and their community, the ASOKAN program is not just a success—it’s a bridge to a better future.

*The full list of project partners is: ¾¾ Lubicon Lake Band ¾¾ Alberta Human Services ¾¾ Aboriginal Affairs ¾¾ Northern Development Canada and Industry ¾¾ Northern Lakes College ¾¾ DMI Peace River Pulp Division ¾¾ Northern Lakes College ¾¾ ClearStream

¾¾ PennWest ¾¾ Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council ¾¾ Pinecrest ¾¾ Mancal ¾¾ Lonepine ¾¾ ATCO ¾¾ Trans Canada ¾¾ Plains Midstream ¾¾ Northern Cross Oilfield Services

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* Denotes Professional Corporation

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COLUMN

plenty of projects coming down the pipe slump thanks to a strong forestry and agricultural industry and thanks to major investments into institutional infrastructure developments.

T

here is no doubt that the slump in oil prices has had a great impact on development in the Peace Region and in the Province of Alberta. Oil companies have slowed down or stopped exploration and development projects.

Work camps have shut down and workers have returned to their primary homes in Calgary, Edmonton and Newfoundland. And local businesses have seen a drop in customers. From a business point of view it is not the sunniest picture.

The bottom line is not if we will get through this slump, but rather how.

Indeed, people of the Peace Region persevere and in the Peace Region we do have had some relief from the economic

Driving around the Peace you can see numerous road projects involving the widening, resurfacing and rebuilding of roads.

The largest such project is, of course, the new Peace River Bridge, which will traverse the Peace River in the Town of Peace River and is expected to begin construction in 2017.

The Town of Peace River has also recently announced the construction of a new multimillion dollar sportplex. In Grimshaw, the new duo-school development adjacent to the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex is an exciting and innovative project that will see the merging of the Public and Catholic school with cross-utilization of all facilities.

The MD of Peace recently completed the construction on their new municipal building. The Village of Nampa, in conjunction with Northern Sunrise County, also completed the construction of the

THE LARGEST UPCOMING PROJECT IS THE NEW PEACE RIVER BRIDGE, WHICH IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN CONSTRUCTION IN 2017. new village office, museum and restaurant within the village limits.

The Town of Falher is working on completing their million-dollar kid’s playground complete with a splash park—a spectacular amenity that adds to the regions list of things to do.

While it is true the majority of these developments will not add tax dollars through municipal property taxes, they are keeping the employment numbers in the region strong, which is vital to keeping our economy strong.

All these developments will require labor, which will attract workers from outside the region. These workers will need accommodation and food, and they will be spending their time— and their dollars—in our communities.

Local people who were employed in the oil industry may have new opportunities for employment in the construction of many of these developments. Local contractors stand to benefit from supplying everything from water, to fuel, to gravel for the construction of these developments.

Local businesses like hotels, restaurants, and retail, stand to benefit in sales from keeping an active employed workforce in the region.

Additionally, a new interest in alternate energy, including a solar farm in the region, all point to a strong future for the mighty Peace Region.

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

The Peace Region Perseveres

While the question lingers, “how we will get through this slump”, the answer remains “by never giving up.”

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#ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

MD OF PEACE CELEBRATES CENTENNIAL On July 16, the MD of Peace No. 135 celebrated its centennial in spectacular fashion.

The summer day was the perfect backdrop for the event, which kicked off with a parade at the Lac Cardinal Pioneer Museum, followed by children’s games, petting zoo, face painting and a

car show. A variety of performers entertained the crowd including the Honey Cowboy, the Hawk Valley Performers, the band Crimson River and the Brenda Linley Highland Dancers.

A dinner followed in the Lac Cardinal Hall, where nostalgic displays and a slideshow

highlighted the achievements and notable residents of the MD’s past. The night capped off with a dance with live music by Northern Lights.

The MD of Peace is agricultural based municipality located along the north bank of the Peace River in northwestern Alberta.

Photography by Tormaigh Van Slyke #Li fesBetterUpHere | FALL 20 1 6 M OV E U P

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#ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

PADDLE THE PEACE Paddle the Peace took to the Peace River on August 20. For the first time in six years, the event sold out with 112 paddlers participating.

Paddle the Peace is an annual staple in the roster of summer events in the Peace Region.

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Participants enjoyed a leisurely paddle from the Shaftesbury Ferry to Peace River’s lower west boat launch.

Paddle the Peace is a collaborative event with partners the County of Northern Lights, Northern Sunrise County, the MD

of Peace, the Town of Peace River and the Mighty Peace Tourist Association.

A stand-up paddle boarder was another first for the event, and the youngest participant was four-years-old.

Photography by Laurie Stavne

#ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

SUMMER’S END FESTIVAL On August 27, the Summer’s End Festival lit up the town of Fairview for the annual day-long celebration.

Despite the rainy weather, which moved much of the festivities into the Fairview Fairplex Arena, the town gave summer an exuberant send-off and much fun was had by all.

So many attractions and performers were jam-packed into the festival including North Peace Reptile Parties, a “Walk in Their Shoes” fundraiser for the local women’s shelter, the Peace Classic Wheels Show and Shine, a quilt show, bouncy castles, demonstrations, the Circus of Hell fire troupe, a Velcro wall, an illusionist, live music and so much more.

The Summer’s End Festival is an annual event that takes place in Fairview, AB, at the end of August.

Photography by You and Mee

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#ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

HIGH LEVEL CANADA DAY CELEBRATION AND CENTENNIAL PARK On July 1, the Town of High Level hosted a fun-filled day of family activities to celebrate Canada Day and the grand opening of Centennial Park.

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The rejuvinated park features updated amenities, a splash park, a new playground and a sliding hill.

Wearing neon green, Town of High Level employees excecuted

a spectacular celebration for the town.

The festivities included a parade, a breakfast, bouncy attractions, lunch, cake and swimming.

Photography by You and Mee

#ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

TRIRIVER TRIATHLON On August 21, Peace River hosted its annual TriRiver Triathlon. The triathlon consisted of 750 metre swim in the Peace Regional Pool, a 20 km bike ride and a 5 km run. The triathlon had 42 participants with an average time of 1:30:04 minutes. Jonathan Provost had the best time overall with a time of 1:06:45. #Li fesBetterUpHere | FALL 20 1 6 M OV E U P

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APL’s NEMT Fosters Independence, Peace of Mind

N

ancy Crotteau, 64, didn’t know where to turn this past August.

Her mother had just passed away, and she wasn’t sure how she was going to transport her 87-year-old father, Dale, from his home at Points West Living in Peace River to his wife’s memorial. Advanced Paramedic Limited’s (APL) new NonEmergent Medical Transport (NEMT) service was the answer.

“Bernadette at Points West Living gave me APL’s phone number and Pam answered my call,” said Crotteau.

Normally, APL is dispatched when there is a medical emergency, but NEMT Supervisor Pam Clendinning became involved in spearheading this new service after receiving numerous requests for non-emergent medical transports.

“For years, we’d get calls from people who are desperate to get their loved one from where they are to the hospital for an appointment. They can’t transport them in their own vehicle, and they don’t want to call

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ADV E R T I S E M E N T

an ambulance because they know it’s not a medical emergency,” said Clendinning.

APL’s answer was a wheelchairaccessible van that allows the passenger to roll in through the hatchback. The chair is then secured and the passenger buckles up for safety. Needless to say, Crotteau was very thankful APL had the NEMT service up and running.

It provided peace of mind during a terribly stressful time.

“My car is too small to accommodate Dad and his wheelchair so this is how we first started using them. Dad has dementia and it was wonderful to have someone with us who understood how to work with the elderly and their families,” said Crotteau.

Crotteau said Clendinning stayed with her dad throughout the memorial and made his needs a priority, which allowed Crotteau to touch base with all other attendees.

“Pam dealt with transportation, equipment such as his wheelchair

and with the medication that needed to be taken within the timeframe of the event. It was great to see Dad there, sad as the occasion was, he was happy to see his old friends and chat with them during the reception,” said Crotteau.

After the funeral, Crotteau returned to Edmonton. She has been finding it difficult to live far from her dad.

Though someone from the family visits monthly, APL’s NEMT service ensures her dad has someone else from week to week.

“Dad and Pam have gone out once a week since the funeral. Pam has a calming effect, and Dad has been happier. He’s out walking, getting fresh air, going for coffee, and he has met up with many friends he hasn’t seen in a while. He returns to Points West in a very sociable mood. We [the family] are seeing it as very positive for him, so we will continue with these outings as long as Dad is enjoying it,” said Crotteau.

For NEMT, the purpose of the trip could be anything—banking, shopping, a medical appointment, a movie or a trip to Calgary. NEMT is a bit like a taxi service, but it comes with medically trained drivers, vehicle assistance and wheelchair transport capabilities, “through the door” service and the individualized attention to suit the client’s needs—all for only $50/ hour.

APL’s “through the door” NEMT service is so much more than simply a transport service—it provides a social outlet, independence and companionship.

“I’m super social and talkative, so I probably enjoy the trips just as much as they do,” said Clendinning. “It’s interesting too because some of my clients have been living in retirement homes for some time, and they haven’t really been getting out at all, so if they get to see a new place or revisit somewhere they haven’t seen in 20 years it’s always great for them and it’s neat for me too.”

Clendinning says she especially enjoys the longer outings.

“On the longer calls we can drive around a bit and see some sites, and stop somewhere for coffee and then for lunch and sometimes we go grocery shopping. I can help push the cart or push them in their chair and reach the stuff on the top or bottom shelves.

And, when we get back to their home, I can help them inside and bring their bags in. I’ll even put their items away for them if they need me to. Basically we do anything they want to do. It’s a day for them to enjoy and to do what they used to do or what they can’t do anymore,” said Clendinning.

Crotteau says Clendinning is a godsend.

“I wish I could be there, but to take and move Dad closer to me would take him too far from his friends and I want Dad to be content in his remaining years. Thank goodness APL is there. More people should be aware of this service,” said Crotteau.

APL’s CEO Stephen Woodburn is pleased to offer this service for all who can benefit from it.

“This service fills a much needed gap for our most vulnerable citizens, including seniors, special needs clients and anyone suffering from physical challenges. Our NEMT service will improve the quality of life for our clients and their families.”

Clendinning says she feels great about the service she is helping provide.

“I didn’t know how it would make me feel. I just saw a demand and a niche and went after it, but now that I’m actually doing it, it’s so rewarding. It’s the most rewarding job I’ve done. It’s so simple but it’s so important. Our clients look forward to it, and it helps them to be more independent, which is just an amazing thing to be able to help provide,” said Clendinning.

ADVERTI SE ME N T

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In an Ideal World

Peace Region man gives up yo-yo dieting for Ideal Protein 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.

“The program uses a process called ketosis and has a fourphase 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,” says Belzile.

how the program works as well as so much about the digestive process.

Goals were explained and set, and progress was monitored and measured with each weekly visit,” said Glen.

For Glen, the weekly weigh-ins were a big part of what made his weight-loss success possible.

BEFORE

AFTER

Gordon Glen’s Story

G

ordon Glen, 58, is a resident of the Peace Region and a father of two.

While he waits to go back to operating in the oilpatch, he has decided to give up on yo-yo dieting and focus on The Ideal Protein protocol with the Ideal Health Clinic in Peace River.

It’s working. In his first five months he has lost 60 pounds.

“I saw the beforeand-after pictures of Brian Dewar in Move Up Magazine’s April Issue, and a week later I was on the program,” said Glen.

Glen says the process was easy to start.

“The staff were very good at explaining

“The weigh ins were a vital part of the process, particularly with watching the type of weight loss.

Sometimes the weight you lose is fat, but sometimes it’s your lean mass, which is generally something you don’t want to lose too much of. Being able to measure that weekly and keep track of it was very helpful,” said Glen.

As Glen learned firsthand, the staff at The Ideal Health Clinic are very conscious about the health and wellness of their clients. They even ask those on the

diet to keep a daily log book to record everything they eat and drink, their vitamin supplements and their overall mood each day.

Then they walk you through the week and ask questions to ensure progress can be maintained and sustained.

“I felt good that the weight being lost was being done in a healthy manner. The daily email videos they send are also very informative,” said Glen.

Having lost 60 pounds Glen has met his initial goal, but

with a surgery coming up, he plans to take a bit of a break.

“After the surgery I will assess things. I may try to get down to high school weight.

It’s nice to be close enough to think about it,” said Glen.

Glen says he truly owes The Ideal Health Clinic, and their staff, a big thank you for providing this wonderful service.

“Their leadership, knowledge and enthusiasm made me want to be successful at this,” said Glen.

New

Grande Prairie location scheduled

to open Nov. 15 at

9819 116 Ave. Call to book your appointment today!

780-617-9010

For more information about The Ideal Health Clinic,

call 780-617-9010 or drop in to 9907 101 Avenue, Peace River ADVERTI SE ME N T

21

KUESTER TRUCKING: IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL

J

ason and Amber Kuester have embarked on an amazing journey as entrepreneurs.

Taking over the family trucking company hasn’t always been easy, but with three children of their own to think about, the married duo has had to adapt the company to a changing economic landscape. This has steered them toward some very interesting jobs like the government caribou relocation initiative involving mountains, tranquilizers and helicopters.

While the two humbly hail from Dixonville, one of the Peace Region’s small farming communities, the Kuester’s impact travels far and wide—throughout most of Canada and the continental US.

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ADV E R T I S E M E N T

Growing up on the farm, ambition was no stranger to Jason. His parents, Gary and Donna, started Kuester Trucking in 1981, which specialized in oilfield “heavy hauling.” They also owned and operated Beaton Creek Ranch, a cattle farm and, on top of that, his mother taught elementary school.

As a boy, Jason would watch the cattle and the big trucks come and go, and he dreamt of operating his own big rig.

“In 1998, when I was 18, my dad and I started getting away from oilfield hauling and into hauling local cattle to the auction mart with a one tonne Dodge pickup and a little trailer,” said Jason. “Now we have a full size trailer and we service the whole region, VJV and

NCL Clyde—basically all the auction marts in the area.”

As Jason learned the ropes, he took over much of the dispatching and driving, and they slowly worked up to a semi-trailer truck and liner. After Jason and Amber married in 2006, the pair started managing Kuester Trucking and started to take it in a new direction. Today, in addition to livestock hauling, they now innovatively offer animal relocation services as well as freight and flatdeck hauling.

“We like to do a little of everything to keep moving,” said Jason.

To drum up new business and to keep their seven drivers busy, the Kuesters

have taken on flatdeck and freight jobs.

“We have one flatdeck and one step deck,” said Jason.

“We also have a roll tight, which is sometimes called a curtain side, so it works well for freight. We can do Less Than Truckload (LTL) for all kinds of services.”

With their flatdeck, they have hauled cedar and fir logs from Mission, BC, to Mossy Ridge, a log structure building company based north of Manning, AB; lumber for Boucher Bros Lumber to Mather, Wisconsin; and farm equipment from Illinois to Ridge Valley Hutterite Colony, which is near Crooked Creek, AB—just to name a few.

“We also hauled the big truck automatic carwash that’s now in Rycroft at the Husky gas station. We brought it in pieces from Kentucky,” said Jason.

While flatdeck and freight jobs have become an important part of Kuester Trucking, livestock hauling has long been their bread and butter. Each week, they make 10-14 trips to the Olymel plant in Red Deer with an up to 200 hogs from barns in the Falher, Wanham, Teepee Creek, and Rycroft area. They have also hauled wild bison from the Yukon to Saskatchewan and from Bezanson, AB, to the US. “There were also people who wanted elk hauled down to the US, so we started doing it. We pick up the elk, sometimes they’re from the Manning, AB, area but they’re usually from the Red Deer and Edmonton areas, and we drive them everywhere from Utah to Idaho to as far as Quebec or New Mexico. The ones from Manning usually go to Fort Macleod, AB,” said Jason.

Hauling elk led the Kuesters to a caribou relocation job the government was doing.

Because of their experience with elk, and the fact their trailer loads from the ground and has large compartments, rather than being open like most trailers, Kuester Trucking was selected for the job.

“The government did a caribou relocation process and we were the only company that had the right kind of trailer to do it. They got them from the mountains in Dease Lake in northern

BC, and they tranquilized them and transported them with a helicopter. They did blood testing and checked them all out, and then they were loaded into our trailer,” said Jason.

According to Jason, it took him and Gary two days to load the trailer before they finally drove them to Kimberley, BC. “It was a big project,” said Jason.

Another interesting livestock job illustrating the Kuester’s willingness to creatively adapt and utilize the resources available to them is the horses they pasture on their home ranch and then drive up to Alaska every year.

“We’ve had the contract for the past five or six years.

We pasture the horses all winter. Then in May we take them up to Skagway, Alaska, and they do trail rides with them all summer for the cruise ships. We haul hay there to feed them all summer and then in late September we pick them up and bring them back,” said Amber.

Through innovative and creative solutions, Jason and Amber have managed to keep their company hauling, despite the downturn in Alberta’s oil-dependent economy. From humble beginnings, Jason and Amber have conquered ambitious goals and have certainly done the family business proud. Kuester Trucking is showing no signs of slowing down, signalling they’re in it for the long haul.

ADVERTI SE ME N T

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BIG PROJECTS

IN THE PEACE

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Ecosystem-based Management Emulating Natural Disturbance

SEEING THE FOREST FOR THE TREES Words by Tormaigh van slyke | Photography by Paul Lavoie Images

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id you know since 1998 the Peace Region has been home to what is believed to be the largest forest management experiment in the world?

It’s called Ecosystem-based Management Emulating Natural Disturbance (EMEND), and it’s a partnership of industry, government and academia.

Together, they ask the question, “What can nature teach us about managing our forests more sustainably?” The short answer is, “a whole lot.”

The EMEND site is 10 km2 of boreal forest, located on

crown land in the County of Northern Lights, about 95 km northwest of Peace River. Funding has primarily come from DaishowaMarubeni International Ltd. (DMI), Canadian Forest Products (CANFOR), the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta and the Natural Sciences of Engineering Research Council of Canada.

Other partners include the Boreal Research Institute, The Foothills Research Institute, the University of Alberta and the Alberta

government.

As a 24-year-old and recent graduate from Trent University in Peterborough, ON, Andre Knight-Lira (pictured) feels extremely lucky to have been hired

by DMI’s Woodlands Division to work on the EMEND site, twice— first as a Forestry Co-op Student (a paid summer internship) and now, with a degree under his belt, as a Forester in Training while he completes the requirements to be a Registered Professional Forester.

“Initially, I didn’t think I had much of a chance

getting the internship because in Ontario there are few opportunities like this. Anyway, they ended up liking me and hiring me.

That’s when I got my first exposure to EMEND, in the summer of 2013,” said Knight-Lira.

Essentially, the people behind the EMEND project look at how natural disturbance and human disturbance affect forest ecosystems as well as how the forest recovers from these disturbances. The findings of the many scientifically-controlled experiments inform government policies

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and industry practices in the effort to achieve ecological and economical sustainability. Coming up on two decades since the project began, plans are to continue study for the duration of one full forest rotation, which is 80 to 100 years.

Amber Armstrong is the Communications and Public Relations Superintendent for Daishowa-Marubeni International Ltd., Peace River Pulp Division. She is passionate about the work being done at EMEND and how it helps to minimize their environmental footprint.

“We look at the forest in terms of how fire and drought affect it and we

also take into consideration the migratory and nesting patterns of the wildlife and birds. As a forest management company we manage the forest like nature would. We understand a fire pattern doesn’t take all the trees out, so we don’t either.

We’ll leave species of trees, and patches of trees, so the moose and the caribou and the wildlife can actually have a migratory pattern, or a traversing pattern, that allows them to not have to go through great expanses of open space. So if you fly over any sites DMI forested, you wouldn’t know we were actually there,” said Armstrong.

As a Forester in Training, Knight-Lira is learning

about how each area they harvest, called a cutblock, has different effects on the forest.

“We try to emulate what would occur naturally, so we’re designing cutblocks in a way that emulates the natural disturbance of fire. We want to see what effects our cutblocks have on biodiversity and the ecosystem’s functions, so we study the area to see what happens with different levels of retention,” said KnightLira.

Retention levels, and forest resilience, are at the crux of everything they do at EMEND. To describe it simply, EMEND’s researchers study how leaving different amounts of trees in different

patterns changes the overall ecosystem. The trees they leave, expressed as a percent, is referred to as the retention level.

There are four “forest types” found in our boreal forest, and for each EMEND researchers experiment with different retention levels, which can range from as low as two percent all the way up to 100 percent. A 100 percent retention level is their control sample— it’s when they don’t cut anything at all.

The shape of the areas left uncut, referred to as “retention patches,” are sometimes also called lifeboats for biodiversity because it’s where the cut areas draw from for regrowth. Researchers also

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use cutting-edge technology, such as wet area mapping and LiDAR, to record water levels and forest regeneration.

In the more than 18 years since the project began, the federal and provincial governments have worked together to conduct several “prescribed burns,” so EMEND researchers can study the effects of fire disturbance in the same ecosystem and compare them to the human disturbance of harvesting.

All the data the researchers collect is used to see how the forest ecosystem responds following a specific type of harvest.

Knight-Lira is learning first hand that a forest’s rate of regrowth depends on deadwood dynamics, thousands of animal 28

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species and water cycles.

Since EMEND started, at least 1,566 species have been identified and studied onsite, and 13 new species, previous unknown to science, have been discovered.

Armstrong strongly believes in the potential benefit of this research.

“EMEND is about the science of forestry.

Through partnerships like the University of Alberta and CANFOR and other agencies, we bring in academics from all over the world to study the ecosystem of the boreal forest. Bees, for example have a global impact, so our EMEND doctorate students study the bees to find out what’s affecting them. Right now they’re conducting a long-term scientific study to

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see what’s happening with the disturbances—whether they’re from the oil and gas industry, the forest industry, the agricultural industry or just people moving in and starting to impact a certain area—and by finding that out they’re working to mitigate the problem before it’s too late. And, that’s really what EMEND is about; it’s about the science of ensuring sustainability,” said Armstrong.

With all that’s gone into seed this amazing project, it will be interesting to see how it will continue to grow with each new generation.

Looking through the eyes of Knight-Lira, a young Environmental Sciences graduate and future Registered Professional, it seems it can only go up.

“We’re providing a service

that people need and delivering it to them, and I can see how we’re making money, but all of our work is reinforced by science and we’re working with nature, not against it,” said KnightLira. “That’s why I’m here.

That’s why I got into this field.”

It can be said that while in the pursuit of economic prosperity, industry has the tendency to ignore the big ecological picture, some companies are demonstrating they are an exception to that rule. Their dedication to a holistic sustainability has inspired many like Knight-Lira who are committed to making the world a better place.

Refusing to be blinded by short-term gains, companies like DMI and CANFOR are showing they indeed see the forest for the trees.

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Pictured from Left to Right: Kelly Sullivian, Site superintendant for marshall lee; Darren Kuester, President and Board Chair of PRSD No. 10; Betty Turpin, Superintendant of HFCRD No. 37; Bob Regal, Mayor of the Town of Grimshaw; Dianne arcand-Lavoie, vice chair of HFCRD No. 37; Paul Bennett, Superintendant of PRSD NO. 10 and Brian Allen, CAO of the town of Grimshaw.

Mile Zero regional Multiplex/School Construction Project

CONSTRUCTING A FUTURE WHERE KIDS AND COMMUNITY CONNECT Words by Talena Winters | Photography by Paul Lavoie Images

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The partnership involves Town of Grimshaw, Holy Family Catholic Regional Division No. 37 (HFCRD), Peace River School Division #10 (PRSD), the Grimshaw Municipal Library, and the Alberta government.

Once complete, the multi-purpose space will be utilized to the fullest, with students taking advantage of services during the day and the community having access to new joint-use spaces during evenings and weekends.

BIG PROJECTS

IN THE PEACE

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alk to anyone involved in the school development project currently underway in Grimshaw, AB, at the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex (MZRM) and you will be struck by their unanimous zeal for the project.

After hearing some of the details, it’s easy to see why.

The massive construction site, which is visible from the highway as you pass the MZRM, will house not one but two schools.

“It’s great news for the Town of Grimshaw, all the students and the region as a whole because it allows us to come together and make extremely efficient use of what will be one facility divided into three sections,” said Paul Bennett, PRSD Superintendent. “It’s a great partnership. Working with the Holy Family School Division and working with the Town of Grimshaw has been nothing but a positive experience right from the get-go. And certainly, I’m looking forward to all the increased options we can provide to students.”

The collaboration was set into motion shortly after the MZRM facility was built, in the fall of 2012, with a simple conversation between a representative of the Alberta government and Brian Allen, current CAO of Grimshaw (who was mayor at the time). According to Allen, they discussed the importance of ensuring the MZRM’s reached its potential, especially during the day.

Allen showed initial interest and soon after the Town of Grimshaw began to explore a partnership with HFCRD and PRSD to build two schools that would attach to the MZRM. New schools had been at the top of the priority list for both school divisions for many years. The Catholic school division wanted to replace their aging K-9 facility, and the public school division was looking for one K-12 school to replace both Kennedy Elementary and the current Grimshaw Jr./Sr. High School buildings.

Once the stakeholders started to become aware of the advantages that such a partnership offered, they enthusiastically came together to make it happen. After months of intensive meetings by half a dozen committees, all with representatives from each partnering institution, and many consultations with parents, the project began to take its current shape.

The new schools will have enlarged capacity over the current buildings, with room to accommodate fluctuations in enrollment through the use of high-quality portable units. The schools will be housed and operated separately from each other, but both will take advantage of jointuse areas.

The primary reason for adjoining to the MZRM was the facility’s Field House—a triple gymnasium that often stands empty during daylight hours. No longer needing to include gymnasiums in their construction budget, the Alberta government permitted the reassignment of space to other uses that could benefit both schools as well as the public.

The school board determined these spaces would be used to house a theatre, two Career and Technology Studies (CTS) labs focusing on woodworking and food preparation, and a beautiful, glassed-in atrium.

The atrium will serve as the shared entrance for the schools, a study space for students and as a lobby and reception area for community events.

As a result of the partnership, the public library will also be moving onsite. It will continue to service the general public while also providing students a library facility that can offer additional programming, which students will be able to access during and after school hours.

In addition to sharing spaces, the schools have also discussed how they may share other resources to better serve the students, such as additional supervision and skilled CTS instructors.

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An Aerial view of the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex/school construction project

With so many moving parts, it’s easy to see why the project has been intensely time-consuming for those involved. However, the parties all agree the effort is worth it.

“It’s going to be so good for the kids,” was the fervent sentiment of HFCRD’s Superintendent, Betty Turpin.

“The project has been a massive undertaking, but the bottom line is we want to be able to look back after five years and just say ‘wow’ for these kids. I get cold shivers. I want to go in and teach,” said Turpin.

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to the vacated buildings.

Plans are for Kennedy Elementary to become the new home of the Town of Grimshaw offices. The single-level structure will provide much greater access to community members with mobility issues, as well as provide more space that the town can make available to the public. PRSD is considering the possibility of amalgamating several of their service buildings and offices into the High School, though this is still in the review and consultation stages. The current Catholic school will be disposed of in one form or another and the land utilized for something new. The most financially sound method of doing so is

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still being investigated.

While there are other schools in the province attached to recreational facilities, this partnership is unique in that it connects the Catholic and public school divisions, the public library and the municipal government to provide benefits to both the students and the citizens of the town and region. The process has not been without its pitfalls, but overall, the excitement surrounding the project is contagious.

Brian Allen sums up the guiding philosophy well.

“Schools should be a focal point in the community, and getting citizens involved

is important. We’re proud of what we’ve done so far.

We hope in the future, when other communities are having this conversation, they will use us as a template,” said Allen.

The library is scheduled to move into its new home in April of 2017. The schools intend to finish out this school year in their current buildings and commence classes in the new facility in September of 2017.

Chances are citizens will walk away from the site just as excited for the future of their community as those responsible for making it happen. After all, it’s that kind of passion that has fueled this project all along.

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Signature Events Performing Arts On the Ice Curling Clubs

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THE MIGHTY PEACE REGION

In partnership with

Endless potential & adventure await...

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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 fall/winter section laid out before you, you will discover local signature events, a guide to local ice rinks and curling clubs, performing arts organizations, a jam-packed events calendar and more.

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

For more ideas and upto-date information visit Mighty Peace Tourism on Facebook.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

YELLOWKNIFE HAY RIVER HIGH LEVEL T MANNING

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GRIMSHAW

MILE ZERO MACKENZIE HIGHWAY

632 381 180 52

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

Featured Events

Photography by Cait Davidson

High Level 2nd Annual Frostival

December 2&3

Following the success of last year’s 50th Anniversary Frostival celebration, the winter celebration is back for a second year of frosty festivites.

In conjunction with the Santa Claus Parade and the Mackenzie Crossroads Museum and Visitor Centre’s Open House, the Frostival will span two days of free fun for the whole family.

Returning this year are the ever-popular ice slide, snow maze and snow carving.

Representatives from Edmonton’s Ice of Whyte Festival will be on hand creating snow features and coaching local community members on how to create their own wonderful winter snow carvings.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Festivals T of Trees

he Festival of Trees is an annual treasured seasonal event. Each year individuals, businesses and community groups come together to decorate trees to be auctioned off for charity. It’s fun, festive and a great way to get involved in the community.

This year’s 17th Annual FOT in Peace River will take place at the Chateau Nova from November 18 to 21. This year’s theme is “Hope”. The Children’s Event will be held on November 18 from 4pm to 8pm with prizes, games and food. The Gala evening will be held on November 19 with dinner, live auction and cash bar (Tickets can be purchased at Style Ryte Cleaners for $75). The senior’s event, The Silver Belle Social, will be help on November 21 from 1pm to 4pm with tea, coffee and desserts. The silent auction and public viewing will be held on the following days: Nov. 18 from 9am to 2pm, Nov. 19 from 10am to 2pm, Nov. 20 from 10am to 4pm and Nov. 21 from 4pm to 9pm, with the silent auction closing at 8pm. The Festival of Trees is the largest fundraiser for the Peace River Regional Women’s Shelter.

The Festival of Mini Trees in Grimshaw is the Grimshaw Library’s annual fundraiser.

Mini trees are decorated and donated to the library for silent auction. Trees are on display for a week and the library’s hours are extended to accommodate viewing hours.

This year’s theme is “A Northern Christmas” and the festival will run from November 26 to December 8. The hours are Sat. & Sun. from 12pm to 5pm and Mon. to Fri. from 9am to 8pm. Daily door prizes and new activities every day. The bidding for trees closes at 7pm on Thursday, December 8th.

The Fairview Festival of Trees is an annual fundraiser for the Fairview and Area Pallitive Care Society. The FOT takes place at the Dunvegan Inn and Suites from November 21 to 26. Bid on trees, wreaths, gift baskets, kids tables and decorations. While you’re viewing enjoy some hot chocolate, tea and coffee!

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

ON THE ICE Baytex Energy Centre | Peace River, AB The Baytex Energy Centre is home to the Peace River Minor Hockey League, the Junior B Navigators, the Peace River Skating Club, The Peace River Speed Skating Assn., the Peace River Ringette Assn., and Recreational Hockey and Old Timers Leagues.

The ice surface is 85’ by 200’ and the season runs from August to March. The arena boasts heated seating for 1700, a concession area, meeting rooms, a press area and dressing rooms.

Public Skating

Shinny Hockey (Helmet required)

Mondays from 12pm to 12:45pm Tuesdays from 12pm to 12:45pm Sundays from 5pm to 6:15pm

Thursdays from 12pm to 12:45pm Fridays from 12pm to 12:45pm

Moms, Pops and Tots

Sunday public skating may be rescheduled for Junior B games.

There are no skate or helmet rentals or skate sharpening services at the arena.

Mondays from 10:30am to 12pm

Fees: Adults $3, Youth (6-17) $2 and Under 6 are free. Shinny Hockey is $6.

9810 73 Ave. | 780-624-3204 | peaceriver.ca

High Level Sports Complex | High Level, AB The High Level Sports Complex boasts a regulation-size hockey rink with seating capacity of 1,400.

The outdoor rink adjacent to the Sports Complex is 80’ by 200’ and is open during daylight hours from December to March.

Public Skating Wednesdays from 3pm to 4:45pm Sundays from 4:45pm to 6pm

Skating fees: Preschool (2-5 yrs) - $1.75 Youth (6-17 yrs) & Seniors (55+) - $2.25 Adult (18-54 yrs) - $4 Family (up to 5 members) - $7.75 Add’l members - $1.25

*High Level also has an outdoor skating path at Jubilee Park (next to Town Hall).

10511 103 St. | 780-821-4011 | highlevel.ca

The Mile Zero Regional Multiplex | Grimshaw, AB The Mile Zero Regional Multiplex boasts many amenities, one of which is the 85’ by 200’ NHL regulation-size arena. The bleachers can accommodate 1,000 and eight dressing rooms are available for arena and fieldhouse groups. The Multiplex also has an outdoor rink located on the north side of the building.

Public Skating: Wednesdays from 3:30pm to 4:30pm Shinny Hockey: Mondays and Fridays from 3:30pm to 4:30pm “No School” Public Skating (from 1pm to 2:30pm) and Shinny Hockey (from 2:30pm to 4:30pm) dates: Oct. 24, Nov. 14, Jan. 31, Feb. 16, 17 & 20 and Mar. 9, 10 & 13.

Charges apply. Contact the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex for more information.

4609 50th St. | 780-332-4005 | Facebook: Mile Zero Regional Multiplex

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Hockey and Skating in the Peace Manning Sports Centre Arena | Manning, AB An indoor rink open seasonally from October to March. Public skating is one of the main attractions at the Manning Sports Centre Arena. The Manning Sports Centre Arena is home of the Manning Comets, the Manning Minor Hockey League and the Manning Figure Skating Club. Contact the arena to inquire about ice skating lessons, pickup hockey, ice hockey clinics and more.

780-836-3624

The Fairview Fairplex Arena | Fairview, AB The Fairview Fairplex Arena is home to the WJHL Fairview Flyers, Fairview Minor Hockey Teams and the Fairview Silver Blades Skating Program. The arena is also available for family and public open skating hours.

10317 109 St. | 780-835-2723 | fairview.ca

Mainway Electrical & Instrumentation Outdoor Skating Rink | Grimshaw, AB Located on the north side of the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex, the outdoor skating rink is open for use when winter weather conditions allow. The ice surface is perfect for shinny hockey and public and family skating outside while enjoying the fresh crisp winter air.

Wayne Johnson Community Arena | Berwyn, AB Public skating and ice rentals are available.

Dave Shaw Memorial Complex | Hines Creek, AB The Dave Shaw Memorial Complex has a curling rink with four sheets of ice and an arena with an ice rink for skating and hockey.

Cleardale Outdoor Skating Rink | Cleardale, AB Outdoor skating rink available when winter conditions allow.

Fairview Outdoor Rink | Fairview, AB The Fairview Outdoor Rink is located south of the Fairplex Arena. The rink is perfect for a casual game of shinny or an afternoon skate with the family.

MD of Fairview Outdoor Rink | Bluesky, AB Outdoor skating rink available when winter conditions allow.

Nampa and District Complex | Nampa, AB Canteen and ice surface for hockey and community skates.

Worsley Arena | Worsley, AB Public Skating, curling and hockey.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Upcoming Events PEACE RIVER FARMERS 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

PEACE RIVER MUSEUM FEATURED ARTISTS OF THE MONTH

PEACE RIVER MUSEUM October: Trudy Plaizier, ceramic potter 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

STORIES, SNUGGLES & SONGS GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY FRIDAYS FROM 9:30AM TO 10AM 780-332-4553

WINE AND COLOURING

HIGH LEVEL LIBRARY TUESDAYS FROM 7PM TO 9PM $5

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

HIGH LEVEL ARENA (UPSTAIRS) AT 7PM EVERY THIRD FRIDAY OF THE MONTH Free. Children must me accompanied by an adult. Bring a blanket or pillow to sit on.

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HIGH LEVEL PLAY ASSOCIATION’S 5TH ANNUAL FEST-OF-ALE

EATING FOR ENERGY INFORMATION SESSION

OCTOBER 15 AT 7PM FLAMINGO INN LOUNGE Sample ale, lager, stout and cider from all over the world! $50 per ticket. | highlevel.ca

OCTOBER 19 FROM 2PM TO 3PM LE CAFE DU COIN IN ST. ISIDORE Learn how to eat for energy! In partnership with Alberta Health Services.

780-624-8071

SKY FAMILY REVIVAL

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK WORKSHOP

OCTOBER 16 AT 7PM GOOD SHEPHERD SCHOOL Presented by the Peace River Alliance Church. An evening of Celtic music and dance. Admission is free, donations will be appreciated.

FREE SWIM IN PEACE RIVER

OCTOBER 17 FROM 6:30PM TO 8:30PM PEACE REGIONAL POOL Sponsored by the AUPE. | 780-624-3720

FLU & IMMUNIZATION CLINIC - PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE VISIT

OCTOBER 19 DUNVEGAN INN & SUITES IN FAIRVIEW 780-835-5999

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK TRADE SHOW OCTOBER 20 FROM 3PM TO 8PM FAIRVIEW LEGION HALL Free admission to the public.

780-835-5999

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS BANQUET OCTOBER 21 | DUNVEGAN INN AND SUITES 780-835-5999

OCTOBER 18 FROM 10AM TO 12PM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE In partnership with Alberta Health Services 780-322-3954

OKTOBERFEST

OCTOBER 18 FROM 7PM TO 8:30PM MCKINNEY HALL IN THREE CREEKS Learn how to screen for a variety of cancers.

In partnership with Alberta Health Services.

Pre-registration is required before October 6th.

780-322-3954

CHATEAU NOVA IN PEACE RIVER Beer tasting from 6:30pm to 9pm. Appetizers, DJ and dancing, silent auction, 50/50, door prizes, tower of beer and cash bar. Hosted by Revolution Volleyball. Tickets ($60) available at AGS Mechanical, Fitness on the Go, Thomas Homes, OT Sports and Chateau Nova.

OCTOBER 22 BERWYN ELK’S HALL

BEER-FEST CANCER SCREENING INFORMATION SESSION OCTOBER 22 FROM 6:30PM TO 1AM

PUMPKIN CARVING PHOTO CONTEST

OCTOBER 18 TO 29 MACKENZIE CROSSROADS MUSEUM AND VISITOR CENTRE Send us a photo of your carved pumpkin (no people, please) and you could win a prize!

Limit 5 entries per person. Email to hlmuseum@highlevel.ca before Oct 29. Images will be posted on the town’s Facebook page.

8TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GIFT SHOW

OCTOBER 23 FROM 11AM TO 5PM BELLE PETROLEUM CENTRE IN PEACE RIVER Live entertainment, prizes, mini fashion shows and more!

780-624-8318

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Fall 2016 + Winter 2017 DEADWOOD HALL FALL SUPPER AND SILENT AUCTION OCTOBER 23 AT 5PM DEADWOOD HALL Continuous buffet from 5pm to 7pm. Auction items pulled randomly beginning at 6:15pm.

Kids craft room to occupy the kids (free).

Family event!

FREE SWIM IN PEACE RIVER

OCTOBER 24 FROM 6:30PM TO 8:30PM PEACE REGIONAL POOL Sponsored by Baytex Energy.

780-624-3720

OCTOBER 29 AT 8PM FOX HAVEN GOLF AND COUNTY CLUB (HIGH LEVEL) $30. Shuttle available. Prizes for best dressed couples, men and women. Live DJ and Silent Auction. No minors.

HALLOWEEN HOWLER

OCTOBER 31 FROM 1PM TO 3PM NAMPA PUBLIC SCHOOL Come in your costume and join us for games, activities, crafts and dancing.

780-322-3954

HALLOWEEN STOP IN

PUMPKIN PAINTING

OCTOBER 25 FROM 3:30PM TO 5PM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE 780-322-3954

SENIORS AFTERNOON TEA

OCTOBER 25 AT 1:30PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Join us for tea and goodies.

HALLOWEEN FAMILY DANCE OCTOBER 29 AT 5PM ST. ISIDORE CULTURAL CENTRE 780-624-8481

ADULT HALLOWEEN DANCE

OCTOBER 29 AT 9PM OLD LAC CARDINAL HALL Adults can enjoy a night of spooktacular fun at the Old Lac Cardinal Hall with a Halloween dance. Music by DJ Dan Sturgeon.

ZOMBIE WALK

HALLOWEEN SPOOK FEST

OCTOBER 29 | HIGH LEVEL Dress up in your ghoulish garb (pets too!) and meet at Town Hall at 3pm to be part of the zombie takeover. Bring a $10 donation or dog/cat food for the Northern Lights Regional Humane Society. | highlevel.ca

OCTOBER 31 FROM 3:30PM TO 7PM MAMOWINTOWIN HALL IN CADOTTE LAKE Stop in for hot chocolate, treats and Halloween activities!

780-629-2476

ANNUAL CHILDREN’S SAFE HALLOWEEN PARTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5PM TO 7:30PM GRIMSHAW MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX Contact Tracy or Misty at 780-332-1585

FUN AND FRIGHT HALLOWEEN

OCTOBER 31 HIGH LEVEL TOWN HALL A family friendly night of fun and fright. This is a safe Halloween event open to all ages with games, crafts, candy amd more! In partnership with the Town of High Level, High Level Municipal Library and FCSS.

2016 IRON CHEF COMPETITION

NOVEMBER TBA TOWN OF HIGH LEVEL Fo you love to cook? Do you think you could battle other residents and become the Iron Chef 2016. It’s free! Three divisions: adult, youth and adult & youth. Submit your recipes and the ingredients will be supplied to you for FREE! Register to Town Hall by November 15th | 780-821-4026

NON-PROFIT LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT SERIES - POLICY & BYLAWS

NOVEMBER 3, STARTING AT 7PM ST. ISIDORE CULTURAL CENTRE Free training, Learn the essentials of Policy and Bylaw Development. In partnership with Northern Sunrise County and the Town of Peace River.

To register call 780-625-3287.

ARTISANS OF THE PEACE CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE AND FARMERS MARKET

NOVEMBER 4 FROM 4PM TO 9PM & NOVEMBER 5 FROM 10AM TO 4PM AL ADAIR REC CENTRE IN PEACE RIVER Beauty products, soaps, teas, baking, jams, pickles, wood carvings, honey, jewelry, stone carvings, Christmas decorations, candles and more. Food bank donations accepted.

Door prizes to be won.

BOOTS ‘N’ BLING DINNER AND DANCE

NOVEMBER 5 AT 6PM BELLE PETROLEUM CENTRE Hosted by the Rotary Club of Peace River.

Live music by Kikbak. Proceeds will go to the Rotary House in Peace River. $100 per ticket.

JUMPING CLINIC WITH “ALBERTA EVENTER” JESSICA KERSHBAUMER NOVEMBER 5 & 6 |JA HAWKER PAVILLION

fairviewsporthorsesociety.weebly.com/events.html

CADOTTE LAKE CROCHET CLUB - WINTER HEADBANDS

NOVEMBER 7TH FROM 5PM TO 7PM MAMOWINTOWIN HALL IN CADOTTE LAKE Learn how to crochet! Each participant will take home their finished product. Only 10 spots available.

780-629-2476

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Upcoming Events Continued...

FALL PREVENTION INFORMATION SESSION IN ST. ISIDORE NOVEMBER 9 FROM 2PM TO 3PM LE CAFE DU COIN IN ST. ISIDORE

Learn how to prevent falls this winter season.

In partnership with Alberta Health Services.

780-624-8071

MOONLIGHT MADNESS SHOPPING DECEMBER 9 | DOWNTOWN FAIRVIEW

REMEMBRANCE DAY

NOVEMBER 11 HIGH LEVEL PUBLIC SCHOOL Ceremony at 10:30am at High Level Public School. Moment of silence at 11am. March from HL Public School to Cenotaph at the Legion at 11:15am.

TEEN MOVIE NIGHT

NOVEMBER 12 AT 7PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY For ages 13 and up. We have the “Best Popcorn in Town” and it’s all free. Sponsored

by A.U.P.E. and Canamax Energy. grimshawlibrary.ab.ca

REMEMBRANCE DAY POTLUCK NOVEMBER 13 AT 6PM OLD LAC CARDINAL HALL

NAMPA GOLDEN PIONEERS COMMUNITY BINGO NOVEMBER 13, STARTING AT 2PM 25¢ per bingo game.

780-332-3751

NAMPA YOUTH CROCHET CLUB FINGERLESS GLOVES

NOVEMBER 14TH & NOVEMEBER 28TH (2 SESSIONS) FROM 3:30PM TO 5PM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Learn how to crochet! Each participant will take home their finished product. Only 10 spots available. Pre-registration required by November 7th. | 780-322-3954

WILL AND ESTATES FINANCE INFO SESSION NOVEMBER 15 FROM 7PM TO 8:30PM MCKINNEY HALL IN THREE CREEKS Pre-registration is appreciated prior to November 9th. | 780-322-3954

15TH ANNIVERSARY OF HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER STONE NOVEMBER 16 AT 4PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Movie, popcorn and prizes! grimshawlibrary.ab.ca

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

NOVEMBER 19 FROM 10AM TO 4PM GRIMSHAW MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX Contact Tanya at 780-332-2139

FRIEDENSTAL WINTER FROLIC & SILENT AUCTION NOVEMBER 19 FRIEDENSTAL HALL

Tickets available at Stem and Petal and Eszcape and Flaunt in Fairview.

WINTER PLAYGROUND PARTY

NOVEMBER 21 FROM 10AM TO 11:30AM Games, crafts, snacks and more! From parents with youth ages 0-6.

780-322-3954

FESTIVAL OF TREES

NOVEMBER 21 TO 26 DUNVEGAN INN AND SUITES IN FAIRVIEW

TINY TEETH

NOVEMBER 22 FROM 11AM TO 12PM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE 780-322-3954

CADOTTE LAKE WINTER FAMILY FUN DAY

NOVEMBER 25 FROM 4PM TO 8PM MAMOWINTOWIN HALL IN CADOTTE LAKE Come celebrate winter with us! Family activities onsite. | 780-629-2476

MOONLIGHT MADNESS AND SANTA CLAUS PARADE

NOVEMBER 25 DOWNTOWN FAIRVIEW Late night shopping. Parade starts at 6:30pm.

MOONLIGHT MADNESS AND SANTA CLAUS PARADE NOVEMBER 25 DOWNTOWN PEACE RIVER

LIGHT UP THE PARK

NOVEMBER 25 FROM 7PM TO 8PM RIVERFRONT PARK, PEACE RIVER Kick start your holiday season by joining us for caroling, complimentary hot chocolate, hot dogs, treats for the kids, a dazzling fireworks display and the lighting of the Town’s Christmas lights! Everyone is welcome to this free event. | 780-624-1000

MANNING FARMERS MARKET CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE NOVEMBER 26 FROM 11AM TO 5PM BATTLE RIVER AG HALL Get a head start on your holiday shopping!

ST. ISIDORE WINTER FAMILY FUN DAY

NOVEMBER 27 FROM 2PM TO 4PM ST. ISIDORE OUTDOOR SKATING RINK Tobogganing, skating, games, winter crafts, hot chocolate and wiener roast. In partnership with the St. Isidore Cultural Centre.

780-625-3287

FALL PREVENTION INFORMATION SESSION IN NAMPA

NOVEMBER 29 FROM 10AM TO 11:30AM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Learn how to prevent falls this winter season.

In partnership with Alberta Health Services.

780-322-3954

SENIORS AFTERNOON TEA

NOVEMBER 29 AT 1:30PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Tea among the trees!

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

WREATH BUILDING WORKSHOP

CHRISTMAS POTLUCK

TEEN MOVIE NIGHT

ANNUAL SENIORS CHRISTMAS SOCIAL

MANNING FARMERS MARKET CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE

BROWNVALE COMMUNITY CLUB CHRISTMAS CONCERT AND POTLUCK SUPPER

WREATH BUILDING WORKSHOP

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

NOVEMBER 30 FROM 5PM TO 7PM MAMOWINTOWIN HALL IN CADOTTE LAKE Learn how to build a traditional Christmas wreath. Participants will leave the workshop with their finished product. Only 10 spots available. | 780-629-2476 DECEMBER 1 FROM 1PM TO 3PM NEW HORIZON SENIORS DROP IN CENTRE Contact Tracy or Misty at 780-332-1585

MD OF PEACE ADMINISTRATION BUILDING GRAND OPENING AND OPEN HOUSE DECEMBER 1 FROM 1PM TO 4PM MD OF PEACE ADMIN BUILDING IN BERWYN 780-338-3845

WINTER PLAYGROUND PARTY

DECEMBER 2 FROM 10AM TO 11:30AM HARMON VALLEY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY GROUNDS Games, crafts, snacks and more. For parents with youth ages 0-6. | 780-322-3954

DIXONVILLE LIGHT UP

DECEMBER 2 DIXONVILLE OUTDOOR RINK Family outdoor fun and treats. fb.com/countyofnorthernlights

DIXONVILLE CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE DECEMBER 3 DIXONVILLE COMMUNITY HALL Watch the County of Northern Lights Facebook page for updates.

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

DECEMBER 3 FROM 1PM TO 4PM MACKENZIE CROSSROADS MUSEUM AND VISITOR CENTRE Horse-drawn rides, pioneer crafts, refreshments, snowmobile rides, photos with Santa and more.

SUPPER WITH SANTA

DECEMBER 4 FROM 4PM TO 7PM MARIE REINE CULTURAL CENTRE Family games, craft corner, door prizes, Christmas supper and a visit from Santa. In partnership with the Marie Reine Cultural Centre. | 780-625-3287

DECEMBER 4 AT 6PM OLD LAC CARDINAL HALL Christmas potluck at 6pm. Santa will make an appearance after dinner. Kinds of all ages welcome.

DECEMBER 10 FROM 11AM TO 5PM Get a late start on your holiday shopping.

DECEMBER 10 FROM 1PM TO 4PM Learn how to build a traditional Christmas wreath. Participants will leave the workshop with their finished product. Only 10 spots available. | 780-322-3954

BROWNVALE COMMUNITY CLUB TURKEY BINGO DECEMBER 10 BROWNVALE REC CENTRE

DECEMBER 17 AT 7PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY We have the “best popcorn in town” and it’s all free! Sponsored by the A.U.P.E. and Canamax Energy.

DECEMBER 18 BROWNVALE REC CENTRE

DECEMBER 24TH AT 7PM PEACE RIVER ALLIANCE CHURCH

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

JANUARY 13 AT 6:30PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY We have the “best popcorn in town” and it’s all free! Sponsored by the A.U.P.E. and Canamax Energy.

TEEN MOVIE NIGHT

MD OF PEACE 100TH ANNIVERSARY SKATING PARTY

JANUARY 14 AT 7PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY For ages 13 and up. We have the “best popcorn in town” and it’s all free! Sponsored by the A.U.P.E. and Canamax Energy.

NAMPA COMMUNITY SERVICES CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

FAMILY LITERACY DAY

DECEMBER 11 LAC CARDINAL HALL Skating party, wiener roast and fireworks!

DECEMBER 13 FROM 1PM TO 4PM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Stop in for resources, Christmas treats and a hot holiday beverage. | 780-322-3954

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

DECEMBER 16 AT 6:30PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY We have the “best popcorn in town” and it’s all free! Sponsored by the A.U.P.E. and Canamax Energy.

JANUARY 27 FROM 6:30PM TO 8:30PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Join us for a fun evening of stories, games, more stories, foor, prizes and even more stories! fb.com/grimshawlibrary

SENIORS AFTERNOON TEA

JANUARY 31 AT 1:30PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Winter wellness with Laura Gloor from the Peace River Museum.

STORIES WITH SANTA

DECEMBER 17 FROM 2PM TO 4PM GRIMSHAW MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Bring your camera or phone to take a picture of your little one with Santa. Stories, crafts and Christmas cookies!

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Performing Arts Brenda Linley Highland Dance Studio

Traditional Highland (Scottish) dancing and choreography--group and solo.

780-624-3864 (Peace River)

7 Dance So Well Studio

A dance studio for kids and adults proudly serving Manning and the County of Northern Lights Area. www.dancesowellstudio.com

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Lac Cardinal Performing Arts Society

The Lac Cardinal Performing Arts Society in Grimshaw, AB produces musicals, dramas and murder mysteries as well as provides drama opportunities and entertainment to surrounding towns. lcperformingarts.wixsite.com/ lcperformingarts FB.com/LacCardinalPerformingArts

7 Movement Speaks Dance and Performing Arts Centre

Our goal is to develop the passion and love for art of dance in our High Level Theater Troupe students while emphasizing the The HLTT provides an outlet for the fundamentals of technique, perperforming arts in High Level. They severance and team work. Classes perform one to three performance include ballet, hip hop, jazz, tap, per year. Everyone is welcome to burlesque, belly dancing and more! be involved in the volunteer-run Movement Speaks is based out of troupe.

Peace River in the historic Crown FB: High Level Theatre Troupe Building.

780-926-1913 www.movementspeaks.wix.com/ movementspeaks

North Peace Performing Arts Festival

The NPPAF assists young performers in their pursuit of excellence.

The 2017 festival will be held March 25th to April 8th. www.northpeacefestival.ca northpeacefestival@gmail.com

7 Peace Players

A theatre group from Peace River, AB. Theatre and culture for all ages.

Peace Players performs and hosts plays, cultural events and performances. fb.com/peaceplayersalberta

7 Peace Region Dance Society PRDS is a dance club for all ages and levels of ability. They offer classes in classical ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, modern, contemporary, acro, pointe work and creative movement for ages 2 and up.

prdancesociety.wixsite.com/prsd

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

In the Peace Peace River Community Choir

The community choir is a group of adults who enjoy singing together.

The choir accepts members from ages 16 and up. The choir is a fun was to sing and socialize. They rehearse once a week from Sept. to May and perform throughout the year in and around Peace River.

www.peacerivercommunitychoir.com

7 Peace River Scottish Society

SongRise Music Industry Conference and Showcase

The SongRise Conference is for songwriters, musicians, singers and lyricists wanting to explore the process of songwriting, recording and the business of the music industry.

This workshop/conference is 2 days of hands-on business and co-writing session held annually every May. ww.songrise.ca

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A folk dance troupe based out of St. Isidore.

780-624-8427

MFT offers a rounded dance program to all ages: classical, character, pop, creative, folk and international rhythms. It also creates its own stories through a unique blend of dance, drama and music.

780-685-3813 | mitelka.com

7 Northern Lights Highland Dance

Ukrainian Muzyka Dancers Teaching traditional highland dance

The dancers (ages 4 - 18) practice Traditional Scotish dance group and from September to May, when they promotion of Scottish culture. end the season with a final concert.

780-618-1819 The club also hosts a Ukrainian New Year’s (Malanka) or Spring 7 ( Vesna) celebration. www.prmuzyka.com

Plein Soleil

Mitelka Folkloric Theatre and Dance Company

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and choreography for ages 2 and up. Adult classes are also available.

Based out of Manning, AB, we have been doing recreational and competitive events including traditional Highland Games.

Call Tara Johansen at 780-626-6003 for more information.

College Town Capers

A theatre group in Fairview that caters to all ages.

780-835-5356 FB.com/collegetowncapers

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Hurry Hard Curling clubs in the peace Manning Curling Club BONSPIEL DATES: Ladies Bonspiel: February 10, 11 & 12 Mens Bonspiel: Jan. 13, 14 & 15 Famers and Merchants Bonspiel: March 24, 25 & 26 Junior Bonspiel: TBA Junior 2x2: March 4 For more information call Kevin at 780-836-5434 or Will at 780-836-3739 Fairview Curling Rink The Fairview Curling Club offers family, ladies, men’s, mixed and junior leagues.

Approximate membership of 150 adults and 60 junior curlers. Leagues run from November to March. fairviewcurling.com 780-835-2828

Peace River Curling Club The PRCC hosts men’s, ladies and mixed leagues.

The Men’s League is held twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7pm.

Ladies League is held Thursdays at 7pm.

Mixed leagues are held on Fridays at 7pm. Teams must consist on at least one female and/or one male in its foursome.

Registration is open to all players regardless of previous experience. Mens and Ladies leagues are $800/ team and mixed leagues are $600/team. Fees include ice time, broom/slider rentals and, if required, end of season playoffs. Learn to Curl is also available to any team or players that wish to brush up on their skills or would like tips to improve their game.

780-624-2861 prcurl.com

High Level Curling Club The Curling Club runs the curling league, the curling hall and bar from October to March.

The Curling League runs from November to March.

All skill levels welcome.

Fees are $200 per person or $800 per league (with reduced rates for volunteers and ages 17 and under).

Events: Early November Free Curling Clinic First Weekend in November Oilmen’s Bonspiel Third Weekend in November Ladies Bonspiel Third Weekend in February Men’s Bonspiel Last Weekend in March Mixed Bonspiel Brownvale Curling Rink Rink is open to drop-in curlers from January 1 to March 31. Contact Bob Reyda at 780-597-3890 for more information.

Grimshaw Curling Club The 2016 season will run from January to March (weather depending).

Three league nights per week (Men’s, Ladies and Junior League (Tentative)) Fees: $50 per adult or $100 per league $25 per junior or $50 per league Facebook: Grimshaw Curling Club To register contact Janessa Allan, President at grimshawcurlingclub@hotmail.com Dixonville Curling Club League curling from December to March. Two sheets of artificial ice. At least one Bonspiel per year (volunteer-dependant).

Jenny Sorensen 780-9712163 or Annette Kuester 780-971-2465.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Mile Z e ro ex l p i lt u M l R e gion a 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

SKI THE PEACE Whispering Pines in Worsley, AB

Fairview Ski Hill

The Whispering Pines Ski Area is located in beautiful Clear Hills County in Northern Alberta. A community-run ski hill with indoor areas to warm up in at the top and bottom. If downhill isn’t your thing, they offer free cross country ski trails—a great way to see nature. Touted as “Northern Alberta’s best kept secret,” head out and see for yourself.

Another great river valley ski hill! Fairview Ski Hill has 3 tow lifts with a full spectrum of terrain choices. They have made a name for themselves in the area for their snowboard park. If you or a friend loves freestyle riding, this is your hill.

skiworsley.com 780-685-2594

Misery Mountain Ski Area

Manning Ski Hill Located five miles east of Manning (Hwy 691) and three miles north (Range Road 224), the T-bar lift operates five different runs—entertainment for all levels of ski/snowboarding enthusiasts.

The Manning Ski Hill offers affordable winter fun for the whole family. Feel free to bring your own snacks.

skifairview.com 780-835-4725

The Misery Mountain Ski Area boasts over 25 runs for all skill levels, a chair lift, daily and seasonal rentals, lessons and ski programs to suit everyone’s needs and more.

Bring your friends! Misery loves company!

Note: The Ski Hill will not operate in -25 degrees or colder (including wind chill).

miserymountain.com | fb.com/miserymountainskiarea 780-624-4881

Note: The Ski Hill will not operate in -25 degrees celsius or colder.

Facebook.com/ManningSkiHill 780-836-2655

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

RELOCATION STORY

The Capons Moved Up to Manning, AB Ansie, 30, and Murray Capon, 32, moved up to Manning, Alberta from Cape Town, South Africa.

Where are you originally from?

I (Ansie) am from South Africa, although I grew up in Mozambique, and Murray is from Zimbabwe, Where in the Peace Region did you move to?

Manning, AB

is also a volunteer firefighter.

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

I’m a doctor, and Murray is a Biokineticist. We have been living in Cape Town, South Africa, where I worked in an emergency centre, and Murray worked at the Sport Science Institute of South Africa.

How long ago did you move up here?

May 2016.

Where do you work?

I work at Manning Community Health Centre and Clinic, and Murray works at the Manning Wellness Association Gym, although he is helping harvest at the moment. He 52

M OVE U P

FA L L 2 0 1 6 | w w w.moveupmag.com

We were both working long hours, and my shifts were causing us to miss out on each other, so we decided it was time for a change and an adventure.

We figured that adventure meant something new and different—and you can’t get more different from Cape Town than Northern Alberta! We were looking for a different lifestyle, an opportunity to become

involved in a community and a better quality of life with more time and energy for each other.

What was your first impression of the Peace Region?

Our very first impression?

Dry and flat (we first visited in 2015 during the drought). Shortly followed by how amazing the people are here—generous, welcoming and warm. Our decision was made! We have since come to love the wide open spaces, and have enjoyed taking advantage of all the beautiful camping spots over the summer.

What surprised you the most about the Peace Region?

The people we have met are so hard-working, involved

RELOCATION STORY

from Cape Town, South Africa and passionate. They have gone out of their way to make us feel welcome. I was sadly surprised by how many bugs there are in summer—I was hoping to leave the mosquitos behind in South Africa—and how short the summer is!

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

Cape Town is beautiful— mountain, ocean, forest and a city with a population of four million. So, it’s quite different! We love the quiet, the countryside and the unexpected diversity: the Dunvegan valley, the old forest at Notikewin provincial park, the Chinchaga forest and the Twin Lakes area—there is something for everyone!

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

Get involved. Say “yes!” at least once to each new opportunity.

How do you entertain outof-town guests? What are some must-try Peace Region experiences?

We always take them for a paddle at Twin Lakes, sushi in Peace River, ice cream at Dunvegan Gardens and Chinese food at Sings in Manning. I’m sure we will be adding to this list—there are a lot of things we still want to try!

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

Well, a bear came to say “hi”

when we were camping in Twin Lakes, and we totally freaked out! We have yet to see a moose, but here’s to hoping. Of course, we have seen lots of mule and white-tailed deer whilst out walking the dogs, as well as the occasional martin or fox when driving.

What is your ideal Sunday in the Peace Region?

What is your favourite fall activity in the Peace?

Going for walks with the dogs, and enjoying all the fall colours.

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

The people. They are just amazing, and we are glad to count ourselves among their number now.

Sleep in, church, then a paddle and barbeque at Twin Lakes in the afternoon.

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

Movies in Manning followed (or preceded by) pizza from Humble Pie. We love board games and having friends over and enjoying an obligatory

bottle of good South African Pinotage.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully still here, but with way more friends!

#Li fesBetterUpHere | FALL 20 1 6 M OV E U P

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Wesley adam skating the newly constructed Curtis Marshall Memorial Skatepark // photography by Tyrell Parenteau

The Curtis Marshall Memorial Skatepark

A LASTING LEGACY FOR A FRIEND Words by Drew Rogers | Photography by You and Mee, Tyrell Parenteau and Paul Lavoie Images

Memorials can take many different shapes—a solid block of stone with a metallic plate or a sign adorning the entrance to the wing of a building— but whatever the place, whomever the dedication is for, there is a sense of permanence. For a group of Peace River citizens, there was no better way to share and celebrate the memory of their lost friend, family member and passionate skateboarder than to take on the project of building the skatepark that Curtis Marshall dreamed of.

After six years of hard work and fundraising, with their project approaching completion, Move Up Magazine spoke with Kris Scobey, President of the Curtis Marshall Memorial Skatepark Committee, about the journey they’ve taken to achieve this goal.

“Curtis loved skateboarding. He would go in the middle of winter and shovel out a patch of pavement or wear out the linoleum on his kitchen floor practicing,” said Scobey.

Scobey, who is the first to admit he is not a skateboarder, took on this project six years ago after his friend’s untimely passing. He can remember the first meeting the committee had, “I think about six people nominated me to be president, and I’ve run unopposed every year since then.”

In those early days it wasn’t easy for the group to be taken seriously or to gain traction.

“We were just a group of kids,” said Scobey. “It was easy for people to dismiss us, but we just knew we had to keep pushing forward.”

levels—fundraising, planning with the community and construction.

It all comes together to make it a long term positive space.”

Getting the Town of Peace River to recognize the need, and then set aside land for the project, was a huge hurdle to be cleared.

One of the strengths that New Line brings to the project is their experience with memorial projects.

“We not only recognize the needs of the community, but when you have a group that has taken up this cause with a specific person as the reason, we need to find ways the park can celebrate the person’s spirit and their role in the community,” explains Morgan. “This park is in the middle of downtown, and it needs to fit in.”

“There were a few options, and we had to go back to Town Council and justify why we wanted the park downtown,” said Scobey. “If it’s for the youth of the area, we need to make it easy for them to get too. Somewhere you need a car to access wouldn’t have been as successful.”

With the land secured, the project started gaining even more momentum.

An injection of municipal and provincial grant funding and private donations allowed the skatepark committee to engage New Line Skateparks to start working on a plan for Peace River.

Even before they were contracted to work with the association, New Line had been offering resources and advice to help the group get rolling. Trevor Morgan, Vice President of New Line Skateparks, shares the committee’s passion and commitment to growing the sport of skateboarding.

“When we sat down for the first time with the group in Peace River, you could tell this meant a lot to them,” said Morgan in conversation with Move Up. “We wanted this project to succeed at all

Whether it’s the inclusion of rocks matching the nearby cliffs, or the design reflecting the Peace River valley, there are many ways this park is a unique installation for Peace River.

BIG PROJECTS

IN THE PEACE

#Li fesBetterUpHere | FALL 20 1 6 M OV E U P

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Peace River Resident Cara Schlitz skating the newly constructed Curtis Marshall Memorial Skatepark // photography by you and mee

“

Trevor Wall trying some bmx tricks at the newly constructed Curtis Marshall Memorial Skatepark // photography by Tyrell Parenteau

We’re realizing the dream Curtis had for the town and giving something back to the community Trevor sees many communities work on projects like this.

“It’s a real testament to the dedication of the group to stick with it. The scale and budget they’ve achieved is an example of trusting in the journey and believing in yourselves,” said Morgan.

According to Scobey, the final retail value of the skatepark is about $600,000. While all the financial and in-kind contributions are too numerous to mention here, Scobey says the largest financial contributors were the Town of Peace River, Northern Sunrise County and the County of Northern Lights, and a few of the larger in-kind contributors were Valley Landscapers, Inland Concrete, Ruel Concrete, and Weberville Aggregate. The remaining funds, a considerable portion, came from grants and donations from the business sector and the general public.

Morgan recognizes that these things don’t just happen.

“Six years later, it has brought everyone together to improve community facilities for youth, celebrate Curtis’ life and see his vision through,” said Morgan.

Curtis Marshall is the inspiration for this skatepark. Its purpose is to see through a vision he had to improve the community of Peace River.

After struggling with his mental health, Curtis took his own life two days before his birthday six year ago.

Suicide is not an easy subject for most to speak of and glorifying it was the last thing on Kris Scobey’s mind when they started down this road shortly after Curtis’ passing.

back to the community.”

“Mental health awareness and suicide are things we need to talk about more.

We had to defend this idea a number of times. I hope that having this positive space will make it easier for people to talk about it,” said Scobey.

“This [park] is celebrating the life and spirit of Curtis, not how he ended his life. We’re realizing the dream he had for this town and giving something

“I really have no idea! That’s the most exciting part. I really hope we see people from all over the area coming out,” said Scobey.

This will be a space for activity and youth engagement in the core of Peace River. Beyond that, it will draw users from all across Northern Alberta.

Along the way Scobey was asked how many people will use this facility.

Approaching completion is an amazing feeling for Scobey and the rest of the committee.

“I’m so happy that we started this project. I’ve learned a lot by being #Li fesBetterUpHere | FALL 20 1 6 M OV E U P

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A drone shot of the newly constructed Curtis Marshall Memorial Skatepark // photography by Paul Lavoie Images

involved with it, but six years is a long time to dedicate to anything. Once it’s all done, I’m ready to move on,” said Scobey.

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Being able to give back to the community that raised him and create a lasting legacy for his friend is a mission accomplished for Scobey and the Curtis Marshall Memorial Skatepark Committee.

Without a dedicated group of volunteers; local, regional and provincial government contributions and the generosity of the Peace Region citizens and businesses, this project would not have been completed.

On Friday, September 23, 2016, the Curtis Marshall Memorial Skatepark was opened to the public.

Almost immediately, skateboarders, rollerbladers and BMX bikers of various

ages and backgrounds swarmed the park. Upon hearing this, skateboarders from Grande Prairie reportedly jumped in their vehicle and made the 200

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km drive the next day to experience the new park.

Without a dedicated group of volunteers, local, regional and provincial government

contributions and the generosity of Peace Region citizens and businesses, this project would not have been completed.

Plans for next year include installing grass sod around the park, general landscaping, a graffiti board, benches and perhaps solar lighting.

Next time you’re in Peace River, head downtown and see what all that hard work accomplished and celebrate the spirit of Curtis Marshall that brought this project to completion.

Moose Transformational Dream

Told by JOhn C. Letendre at the 3rd Annual Mihkwapikwaniy Storytelling and memorial camp 2016 Translated from cree to english by Billy Joe Laboucan, Chief, Lubicon Lake #453

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ong before white people came and brought their influences, the people on Turtle Island had a strong belief system.

It was believed that dreaming brought messages such as in technologies, medicines, warfare, etc.

One such belief was if you dreamt a message four nights in a row, and if you acted on that dream on the fourth night, it would become reality.

A young hunter had such a dream of being able to turn into a four-year-old bull moose. At this age, the bull moose is the most dangerous with relatively small horns and a large stout body; he is also very strong and agile. With his smallish horns he was able to pierce another bull’s ribcage and kill it.

The young hunter had a young wife and two small children. He told her of his dream and the instructions he had to follow. Upon her insistence that she and the children had to accompany him; he finally agreed and

said he would build a loft high in the trees when the time came.

Then, during the mating season of the moose people, the young man and his family left to go to the moose hunting area. He selected huge trees to which he built a stout platform and a shelter on it for them.

He also stocked it well with food and water. Once she and the children climbed up, they would not be able to come down from dusk ‘til dawn. This is when the moose would be mating and the bulls would be fighting. It would become very dangerous to be on the ground.

looked like other humans and she was able to understand what they were saying.

A young female moose called up to the young mother, “I can tell you all about your husband and who he has been with, and who he is with right now.”

She said. She was very friendly.

As soon as his family were looked after and felt they would be safe, he left to join the moose people.

Then as the moon rose into the sky, the young man turned into a fierce four year bull.

Then a three year bull, called Yîkihcawâsîs started talking with her. He was so handsome. He said, “Come down! We will have some fun. You know what your husband is doing.” And she was so tempted, and was about to climb down, but she remembered what her husband’s warning to stay where it’s safe. He also said, “If you come down and join the moose, then I would have to kill you, so please stay in the loft, no matter what happens.” So, she stayed.

In the meantime, the young wife and their children were safe in the loft, and to her amazement, the moose she saw in the moonlight

During the daylight hours when the moose rest, the young woman and her children were able to come down. The children played

and washed at a nearby stream. But as soon it was getting toward dusk, they would once again climb back to safety.

That night, another female moose showed up. The young woman saw that she was very beautiful and so haughty. She called up to her, “I have been with your husband you know. He is so good! Come down if you don’t like it! We can settle it down here.” But the young woman refused to be goaded into any foolish actions.

Then again, the next night, the beautiful haughty female moose came and taunted the young woman.

She called up, “I have seen you walking around during the day. Your dress is so low that it drags along on the ground.”

The young woman couldn’t keep silent any longer and retorted, “And I have seen you walking away from me, and your dress is so short that I can see your privates.”

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CREATING A COMMUNITY FOR ALL AGES Words by Talena Winters | Photography Submitted

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n July 1, 2016, over one thousand residents of High Level came together to celebrate the grand opening of the Town’s newly-upgraded Centennial Park, which features updated amenities, a splash park, a beautiful playground area and a sliding hill.

The inaugural Canada Day event was merely the first milestone of a multi-phase project aimed at revitalizing High Level’s downtown core and ultimately fostering community.

Phase two is already underway, and it includes the realignment of two intersections to allow direct access to Main Street (100th Avenue) from the main 60

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highway going through town (Highway 35). Also involved in this phase is a block of new streetscape, the first of five projected to receive such treatment over the next few years.

Phase two is scheduled to be completed in August of 2017.

According to High Level Mayor Crystal McAteer, when the whole project is complete the entire length of 100 Avenue from 97 to 102 Street will have been completely renovated, providing safer, more beautiful streetscapes for pedestrians and hopefully attracting businesses and citizens of all ages back to the downtown core.

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“Main Street looks like a four-lane highway, and people treat it like that, but it’s not,” said McAteer.

“We want this to be a community that’s friendly for children all the way up to seniors.”

The comprehensive plans for the new Main Street integrate design concepts from the Complete Streets philosophy, which is meant to provide safe and comfortable access for users of all ages, abilities and modes of transportation, not just motor traffic.

While each block of the project was designed slightly differently based on existing buildings and needs, common features include

wider sidewalks, bulb-outs at intersections (rounded sections of sidewalk that extend farther into the lane, encouraging vehicle traffic to slow down), sitting areas, on-street parking and rain gardens meant to conserve storm water and reduce environmental impact.

At either end, the street’s “gateways” will receive special attention, with unique crosswalk treatments to mark the entrances of the pedestrian-friendly zone.

Signage, sidewalk canopies, and consistent, beautiful landscaping will provide a welcoming environment that should transform the identity of Main Street and provide a place where citizens want to walk, talk,

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BIG

The revitalization will provide safer, more beautiful streetscapes for pedestrians and will hopefully attract businesses and citizens back to the downtown core.

linger and shop.

A great deal of planning and community input have gone into bringing this project to where it is. Between waiting for provincial grants for the revitalization project and waiting to rise to the top of Alberta Transportation’s priority list (the town’s partner for the highway realignment), the gestation period for the project has been over twelve years.

Once the realignment was scheduled, the Town was finally able to go forward with other projects that have been “on hold” until the foundation work was done—delayed until now

to prevent wasted funds on pieces that would otherwise need to be torn up and redone during this phase.

Many of these projects are included in the new streetscape plan. According to McAteer, because they waited, the town cut their cost for the initial phase of the street revitalization project by two-thirds.

High Level, a town of nearly 4,000, has seen its share of change over the years. Oil and gas workers have given the population a transient aspect, and as the downtown core has aged, businesses have moved to the highway’s commercial district. McAteer and High

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Level’s Town Council are hoping the revitalization initiative will bring the community focus back to the downtown core where they feel it belongs.

“Our downtown was looking a little rundown and the storefronts were showing their ages, so we began with a grant for people to upgrade their storefronts, and some people have taken part in that grant, so now the focus is the streetscape. We believe if you build it, people will come,” said McAteer.

The three-year Centennial Park upgrade that followed has received extremely

positive feedback. Since it opened, everyone from young mothers with strollers and small children playing in the splash park to seniors enjoying an afternoon stroll can regularly be spotted enjoying the amenities— exactly what was hoped for.

Once the Main Street project is complete, there will be another five blocks of user-friendly, beautiful space to draw community members together. The Council’s vision is for their new downtown core to be a key element in creating the kind of close-knit community they want to be—friendly, welcoming, and beautiful.

(L) The project vision area for High Level Downtown reviatlization (R) High Level Mayor Crystal McAteer #Li fesBetterUpHere | FALL 20 1 6 M OV E U P

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Image: Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

AMISK Hydroelectric Project

GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK Words by Talena Winters | Photography Submitted

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he Peace River may soon be helping make Alberta a little greener.

In the Climate Leadership Plan announced last November, the Alberta government outlined several ambitious goals related to curbing Alberta’s current dependence on fossil fuels. Specifically, the government committed to phasing out pollution from coal-fired sources of electricity by 2030. Instead, plans are to generate 30 percent of Alberta’s energy from renewable resources such as water, wind and sun.

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Initiated in 2013, the Amisk Hydroelectric Project (AHP) aims to make significant progress toward achieving this goal and increase hydroelectric generation in Alberta by 41 percent, contributing 370 MW per year to the grid—enough to power 359,000 homes.

be located on the Peace River, in the MD of Fairview, 15 km upstream of the Dunvegan Bridge. This location was chosen due to its favourable topography, including the deeply incised walls of the river valley, which extend for the entire length of the area needed.

Amisk is a proposed “run-of-river” hydroelectric project, which means it’s to be a hydroelectric facility that doesn’t have significant longterm storage—less than 48-hour retention time in the water storage and retention area (headpond). It’s to

If there was ever an ideal location to place a dam, this would seem to be it. The steep valley walls in the 77 km headpond area will contain the flooding, mostly vertically, and have little impact on the surrounding area. Although the projected water

BIG PROJECTS

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(Top) A rendering of the proposed AHP dam (Bottom) Ian Sanchez, President of AHP Development Corporation

level would be raised by up to 24 metres at the dam site, only 1,625 hectares of land would be flooded over the length—according to the Amisk website, this is a fraction of the amount per megawatt (MW) compared to other hydroelectric projects.

Because of BC Hydro’s existing dams, specifically the W.A.C. Bennett Dam, the Peace River’s flow is already highly regulated. This means power generated from the AHP dam would be consistent throughout the day, similar to coal’s power-generating capabilities.

The project is still in the early stages.

Currently, multiple studies are being done to assess environmental and socio-economic impacts. Once those are complete, hopefully in 2019, the Environmental Impact Assessment will be submitted to a joint review panel made up of people representing all the pertinent federal and provincial government agencies.

Should the timeline progress as hoped, they could be breaking ground by 2021 and completing the project five years later.

Ian Sanchez, President of AHP Development Corp., predicts the construction process will have great economic benefit for the region.

“In rough numbers, this is about a $2 billion project. It would mean a lot of jobs, lots of economic spin-off and generally a lot of economic impact for

the province and the region. I think it will be really positive,” said Sanchez.

Sanchez indicated that local resources would be used whenever possible during the construction process. Not only does hiring locally cut down on project costs, but he anticipates the project will bring other jobs to the region.

The estimated impact of the project on Alberta’s future is significant.

According to Sanchez, with the phasing out of coal-powered electricity, hydro is the least expensive energygenerating renewable resource, comparable to natural gas. Other sources, like wind and solar, tend to be more expensive and much less reliable.

According to Alberta Energy, in 2015 Alberta’s energy was 51 percent coal-generated and only two percent hydro-generated.

Compare this to the rest of Canada where, according to Stats Canada, 63 percent of energy comes from water.

AHP already has plans in place to

compensate for lands affected by the project, which would include two campsites (Carter’s Creek and Pratt’s Landing). Consultations are in progress with stakeholders, including First Nations, landholders, the Alberta government (regarding the Dunvegan West Wildland Park), municipalities, recreational users and other interest groups to make sure all needs and feedback have been taken into account. Plans for the best ways to allow boat and fish passage are also still being developed.

In general, the feedback AHP has received so far has been positive.

According to Sanchez, people are looking forward to the recreational opportunities a dam creates and are enthusiastic about a clean energy source.

Sanchez and his team will continue their due diligence to make sure AHP will have a positive impact on their Peace Region neighbours.

Since they are still in the early stages, there is a great deal more to do before they can move forward with construction. In the meantime, they are optimistic about the project and its contribution to Alberta’s cleaner, greener future.

Learn more about the Amisk Project on their website: amiskhydro.com

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COLUMN COMMUNITY FUTURES PEACE COUNTRY //

Selling Your Small Business 6 tips on how to ensure a smooth transition

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elling a small business can be an involved process.

You will want to consider your situation very carefully, and you may need to enlist the help of several professionals as you move through the process.

How much money you will put in your pocket depends on several things: the reason you are selling, the timing of the sale and the structure and financial strength of your business at the time of the sale.

Let’s take a look at a few of the steps you’ll want to consider to make the sale as

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efficient and successful as possible.

1. Reason for Selling Your Business Once you’ve decided to sell your business, you’ll want to provide potential buyers with a reason why. Reasons may include: The business is in high demand • A new opportunity has been identified elsewhere •

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Illness or retirement

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Partnership disputes

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Burnout

2. Timing of the Sale:

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If possible, prepare for the sale of your business well in advance. A long preparation time will allow you to take the necessary steps to optimize profitability, streamline business operations and increase your customer base to make the business more attractive to buyers. These improvements will also ease the transition of the sale and will set the buyer up for success.

3. Business Valuation: What is your business worth? Many entrepreneurs have an unrealistic idea of the value of their business. Talking with your accountant can help you

set a realistic selling price of your business. There are many ways to calculate the value of a business, but the bottom line is, earnings are key to setting a fair business valuation. An objective evaluation of your business by a professional will help support the asking price of your business.

4. Preparing Documents: To present a buyer with as much information as possible, develop an Information Packet with all pertinent information in one place. A typical packet would include: • Non-Disclosure/NonCompete statements

COLUMN COMMUNITY FUTURES PEACE COUNTRY // • Business Summary • Three years of accountant-prepared financial statements and CRA tax returns • Year-to-date in-house financial statements • List of assets to be sold with the business • Client list • Supplier list • Lease Agreement 5. Finding a Buyer: A business sale may be a lengthy process and finding the right buyer can be a challenge. Advertising locally/regionally/nationally, enlisting the help of a business broker and/or utilizing online media can help attract buyer interest.

Once you have a prospective buyer, keep the process moving along: Confirm your buyer can qualify for financing.

If you plan to finance the sale, work out the financing details with your accountant and lawyer, so you and the buyer are clear on the financing terms.

• Put any agreements in writing, so all parties understand the terms of the sale. You may need the help of a lawyer to facilitate the sale.

• Be open to negotiations, but make sure you and the other party are happy with the results of the sale.

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6. Handling the Profits: Wait at least a few months before spending/investing the profits from the sale of your business. Develop a plan outlining your financial goals, and discuss any tax implications with your accountant. A financial advisor may be able to help you determine how you want to invest the money and how to focus on longterm benefits.

Ultimately, deciding to

sell is a big step in the life cycle of a business. It can be time consuming and, more often than not, it can be an emotional undertaking.

Being prepared to sell your business will facilitate the smooth transition of your business to the buyer and will eliminate a lot of stress and unwanted surprises.

Information for this article was sourced from Investopedia.com and adapted to suit a Canadian audience.

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COLUMN RODNEY MAJAYA | PROJECT MANAGER | STRONG COFFEE MARKETING // 66

5 VALUABLE LESSONS ABOUT WEB ANALYTICS FOR BUSINESS

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he internet has changed the marketing landscape and has introduced us to a variety of new marketing channels and tools. Businesses need to figure out how to capitalize on these new opportunities to boost marketing efforts without breaking the bank.

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Understanding web analytics will help in developing a plan of attack. Here are five valuable lessons about web analytics that business owners need to embrace: Web analytics go deeper than presenting data Sometimes fear stops us from discovering what we need to succeed. You can look at web analytics and easily feel intimidated by the data, but, as they say, you can’t knock it ‘til you try it. Get your hands dirty and approach your analytics with an open mind. Web analytics are about understanding the “why” behind the data. Task yourself to learn more and use web analytics to aid you in strategic implementation of marketing functions. You will be surprised by how much they can positively alter your business fortunes.

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Your business needs web analytics to grow in the right direction Needless to say, we are all well-embedded within the Information Age (both individuals and businesses).

Any business that intends to be successful has to understand the various aspects of how to get there. Investing in educating the employees who oversee the digital side of your business is important. A solid approach to web analytics is one of the greatest ways to invest in your business’s future.

Analytics represent the ‘M’ in S.M.A.R.T. goals S.M.A.R.T. is an acronym for: • Specific • Measurable • Attainable/Achievable • Relevant • Timely Your business goals must be measurable. Merely having an online presence is no longer enough. Think about it: millions of other businesses exist online—the internet is saturated. This is an opportunity to use web analytics smartly.

Who is your audience? How do you engage with your audience?

Is your website aligned with some of your strategic goals as a business? Are your web pages

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indexed correctly? Web analytics are the measuring tool to answer some of the most burning business questions you have (and questions you never knew you had).

The process is on-going Once you are familiar with web analytics, you cannot rest on your laurels because “the job is done.” To get the most out of web analytics, commit to reviewing data periodically against the goals that you have set. This allows you to stay on top of things. Endeavour to be proactive, not reactive.

Get a pro to do it

A symptom of many small businesses is one person wears numerous “hats,” such as CEO, Marketing and Communications Director, Accounting Department, etc.

Eventually, your marketing functions will need someone with the know how to perform them. Find someone to help you look through the data and pull out the important parts.

we are Creatives for hire.

VAULTmedia 780-624-1985

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