Move Up Issue 13

MOBILE MARKETING

GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH YOUR PHONE

KIHKWAHÂKÎS

WOLVERINE: AN ABORIGINAL LEGEND

GO MIGHTY PEACE

TRAVEL & EXPLORE THE PEACE REGION

Local Features News Events Opportunities

TAKE ONE

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WINTER EDITION 2017

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Contents >> VOLUME XIII

PUBLISHERS

Tormaigh Van Slyke Jenelle Van Slyke EDITORS

Jenelle Van Slyke Tormaigh Van Slyke ADVERTISING SALES

Tormaigh Van Slyke LAYOUT DESIGN

Aimie Williams Tormaigh Van Slyke Jenelle Van Slyke

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AD DESIGN

Aimie Williams

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PHOTOGRAPHY

You and Mee and Paul Lavoie Images WRITERS

Billy Joe Laboucan, Rodney Majaya, Northern Lakes College Staff, Parent Link Staff, 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.

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Also >> 12

How a Fundraiser Could Save Lives

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Grow Your Business

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Relocation Story

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Kihkwahâkis

MOVE UP IS A PROUD MEMBER OF THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS

PREDA

PEACE REGION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE

APL fights against sudden cardiac arrest

Stacey Messner explains what HR can do for you

Jenna Dacyk relocates to Fairview

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOU AND MEE PHOTOGRAPHY

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An Aboriginal Legend

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network as well as the fire hall. The panels can easily be adjusted to maximize sunlight at different times of the year, allowing the $72,500 project, offset with a $16,325 grant from the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre, to likely pay for itself within seven years.

Northern Sunrise COunty powers up ambitious solar project orthern Sunrise County is pleased to announce the completion of a unique solar power project at the St. Isidore/Three Creeks Fire Hall. Built from 88 solar panels, the 22.5 kilowatt project is one of the largest of its kind at a Canadian fire hall. The County hopes to generate 29,497 kilowatt hours and prevent 17,698

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kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions every year.

“It’s an exciting day for the County,” said Reeve Garrett Tomlinson. “We pride ourselves on being leaders in every field and now we can point to this amazing renewable energy project powering our fire hall.”

“I hope we have built something that our residents

and especially our volunteer firefighters will be proud of. Council is extremely happy to see the completion of this project, which makes both economic and environmental sense,” said Tomlinson.

The system is grid-tied to three phase power using a string of micro inverters, so it will feed power into the local distribution

The project was made possible with funding support from the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre, which is a partnership between the Government of Alberta, the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association, and the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties.

“I’m so pleased to see the climate change grants being used for this, and I’ll continue to advocate for more solar opportunities in the north,” said Peace River MLA Debbie Jabbour.

particularly for people with developmental disabilities.

For many years, Gordon and Barbara have provided a wide range of support and initiatives that contribute to an inclusive community for persons with disabilities and their families in the Peace Region.

Local Tim Hortons Owners win award ocal Tim Hortons owners Gordon and Barbara Drummond have been honoured with an Award of Excellence in Employment by the Premier’s Council on the Status of Persons with Disabilities for their support

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HOPED to hire economic development officer

of Peace River’s disabled community.

The Drummonds are strong advocates for Peace River’s disability community and their families. They are wellknown for their generosity and commitment,

After receiving several applications, Heart of the Peace Economic Development (HOPED) will hire an Economic Development Officer in 2017.

Gordon, a former teacher, is committed to advocating on opportunity and equal treatment, inclusion and the celebration of individuality.

Gordon is an avid cyclist who rides to raise funds and awareness for Kids with Cancer. In 2009 he rode across Canada.

Barbara has been actively involved in engaging with provincial government leaders regarding employment initiatives for adults with disabilities.

HOPED expects the new hire will help them reach some of their goals for the new year. Such goals include promoting new business and residential development incentives and getting companies involved

Barbara and Gordon sponsor several soccer teams, and of course, they donate plenty of coffee and doughnuts. They also support school and soccer programs in their community by providing fundraising and mentoring support.

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FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: PAT PEETSO, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT FOR TIM HORTONS; CORY JACOB, REGIONAL PROGRAM SUPERVISOR FOR ALBERTA HUMAN SERVICES; BARBARA AND GORDON DRUMMOND, OWNERS OF TIM HORTONS IN PEACE RIVER AND VALLEYVIEW; BETTY LOU BENSON, PREMIER’S COUNCIL MEMBER; AND JUSTIN GAGNON, POLICY ANALYST COUNCIL ON PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES SECRETARIAT // PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM DIETRICH

As Tim Hortons owners, Gordon and Barbara employ several individuals with disabilities and support them in reaching their full potential. Gordon and Barbara have made accommodations to their storefront schedule and workplace policies to respond to what their employees with disabilities need to be included and successful in their roles.

The Drummonds are leaders in their community and are modeling the way for inclusion.

in taking advantage of these incentives.

HOPED also plans to resurrect and improve the Fairview Farmers Market and use it as a draw to get people travelling to use it.

Silent Dreams: Their Story Honouring murdered and missing Indigenous women and the historic struggles of all women

On exhibit until March 31, 2017 Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre 10302-99 St, Peace River

www.peaceriver.ca/museum

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Photography Submitted

#ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

From Left to right: Coleen Bak, Janice Reyda, Barbara Johnson, Sandra Eastman, Robert Willing, Veronica Bliska, George Brightwell, Nasar Iqbal, Lyle McKen and Lelia Sumner.

MD of Peace hosts grand opening of new administration building n December 1, the MD of Peace No. 135 hosted the grand opening of their new administration building in conjunction with the MD’s 100th Anniversary.

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The new building, located at 5240 52 Avenue in the Village of Berwyn, was host to many tours throughout the day.

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The event kicked off at 2pm with the official ribbon cutting. Presentations took place in the council room and the patrons enjoyed refreshments.

Guests enjoyed a beef-ona-bun dinner before being treated to a dazzling fireworks display to round out the evening.

Work on the new facility started in early 2015, with the ground breaking taking place in May 2015.

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#ICYMI

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Photography by Paul Lavoie Images

LIGHT UP THE (RIVERFRONT) PARK n November 25, the Town of Peace River hosted Light Up the Park, a cherished annual holiday event at Riverfront Park.

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The celebration included caroling, ice skating, free hot dogs and hot chocolate, treats for the kids, a fireworks display and the lighting of the town’s Christmas lights.

The event was in good 8

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company as several other organizations also hosted events on the same evening including the Peace River and District Chamber of Commerce’s annual Santa Claus Parade, the Peace River Farmer’s Market was held at the Al Adair Rec Centre and Peace Players held a performance of It Runs in the Family at Athabasca Hall.

A smashing success, Light Up

the Park served to usher in the holiday season and bring the community closer together.

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stepHEn woodburn (right) and samantha sNYder (left) demonstrate how to respond to a cardiac arrest

HOW APL’S COMMUNITY FUNDRAISER COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

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ince 2006, Advanced Paramedic Ltd. (APL) has hosted an annual comedy night fundraiser aimed at saving lives in the Peace Region.

The fundraiser is “AEDs For All” and the goal is to provide high-trafficked locations with the necessary equipment to save someone’s life in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest.

This year’s event will be held February 24, 2017.

“AED stands for Automatic 12

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External Defibrillator and it’s used in instances of sudden cardiac arrest, which is a pretty scary thing because it can happen to anyone at any time, and there are no warning signs,” said Stephen Woodburn, APL’s founder and CEO. “The only way to keep someone alive in these situations is to use an AED to try to get the heart beating again. And, these things are made so anyone can use them.”

Not to be confused with a heart attack, sudden cardiac arrest is an electrical problem that creates an abnormal heart rhythm, preventing it from pumping blood to the vital organs, and it happens more often than you might think.

According to St. John Ambulance, sudden cardiac arrest “occurs every 12 minutes in Canada and, with each passing minute before AED application, the probability of survival declines by 7-10%.”

Locally, the AEDs For All fundraiser has had great success. It has helped spread awareness and the proceeds have been used to purchase dozens of AEDs for the community. Each one is placed strategically and staff are taught which steps to take in the case of an emergency.

“AEDs make a difference in the right circumstance.

We hope they never need to be used; however, in the unfortunate event they are required, they have proven

AED and called 911. Two coworkers performed CPR while two others controlled the scene and waited to receive the ambulance.

During CPR, the AED was positioned on Rodriguez’s chest and used to shock his heart twice before the paramedics arrived to continue treatment for a cardiac arrest. Rodriguez said he owes his coworkers his life.

As a Registered Paramedic, Woodburn knows all too well that the first people on the scene are crucial to saving lives, which is why he is focused on giving them the necessary tools as he can to ensure there are more success stories like Rodriguez’s. Plus, he says, the AEDs For All Comedy Night is a great community event.

to save lives. This initiative is incredibly important to me, and it just makes sense because ‘Community’ is one of APL’s Five Core Values,” said Woodburn.

AED success stories are frequent. Just last year, Alberta Health Services recognized four employees of All Weather Windows for helping to save the life of their co-worker, Manual Rodriguez, in Edmonton.

According to Alberta Health Services, Rodriguez arrived early to his shift. Shortly after he arrived, he collapsed and turned blue. Coworkers rushed to his aid with an

“I actually started the event in 2004 as a fundraiser for the Sri Lanka Tsunami, and then in 2005, for Hurricane Katrina. I saw the devastation and I asked myself, and my staff, what we could do to offer our support. One of my flight medics had a brother who was a professional comedian, so we hired him and two of his friends for our first ever comedy night. Each year we raised about $6,000 on behalf of APL and the Peace Region, and we have continued to raise about the same each year since re-directing our focus locally to AEDs,” said Woodburn.

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Sudden cardiac arrest occurs every 12 minutes in Canada

become a mainstay for many in the community, and it has inspired companies that can afford it to purchase their own AEDs for the safety of their staff and those who visit their offices.

Community members and staff all pitch in to make the yearly event a success.

look forward to attending.

It’s a great evening out,” said Woodburn.

“All our staff volunteer or participate in different ways—bartending, selling tickets, promoting the event within their own circles.

It’s an APL event that is a lot of work, but we try to make it as fun as possible, including the organization of it. Samantha has always been the common denominator of the event.

She has taken the lead and been the main organizer of the event for several years,” said Woodburn.

“I’m a cheerleader for the event. I provide oversight, sell tickets where I can and sometimes do some MC work the night of. I always

“We ensure we get the best device for the best price and offer the training at no cost and assist with the placement as much as possible,” said Woodburn.

After each event, APL purchases the AEDs in bulk and distributes them according to written requests and a needs assessment.

If interested in obtaining or purchasing an AED, email stephen@ advancedparamedic.com or call 780-624-4911.

Inquire about purchasing tickets to APL’s AEDs For All Comedy Fundraiser prior to February 24, 2017.

There will be two shows, one at 7:30pm and one at 9:30pm. Tickets are $25 each.

With over 10 years under their belts, APL’s AEDs For All Comedy Night has

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In an Ideal World

How the Ideal Protein diet changed the lives of two Peace Region locals im Ljuden, 51, is a father of three and a paramedic of 27 years. In the past, he’s never subscribed to dieting.

Rather, when he would notice his weight increasing, he would try to watch what he ate and become more active.

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Tim reached a point where he was unhappy with his sedentary lifestyle, his weight and his eating and drinking habits, so he decided to try the Ideal Protein diet using the Ideal Health Clinic in Peace River.

BEFORE

AFTER

tim’s story

“I challenged myself to try the program and give it a fair trial to see if it worked as well as the science behind it suggested,” said Tim. Tim lost 46 pounds in seven weeks.

“I thought it was fairly easy and the results came quickly. One thing that is very important on this diet is to be all in and never cheat because the sugars River and is a mother of three sons.

Annie started the Ideal Protein diet in May 2016 after a friend recommended it to her.

“He told me it was quite easy to follow and he was extremely happy with the results,” said Annie. “He is a diabetic and the diet really improved his sugar levels.”

Annie had tried diets in the past with minimal success.

BEFORE

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Annie’s story nnie Giesbrecht, 57, is a busy business woman who co-owns MR MIKES SteakhouseCasual in Peace

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not described in the food will lessen the results. If you’re all in, the results will be very rewarding,” said Tim. “The staff were very encouraging and available to answer questions all the time. There could be confusion initially on what you can and cannot eat, but I found my routine and they didn’t have to coach me as much,” said Tim. Tim says that being in the medical field, and having a very deep knowledge of anatomy and physiology, he can see the science behind Ideal Health and can understand why it works.

“I would recommend The Ideal Health Clinic to anyone who has even a small problem with their weight. Sign up and challenge yourself to be all in. Follow the program exactly as prescribed and be amazed at the results in a fairly short amount of time,” said Tim. amount of real food to stay at your goal weight and be healthy.”

Annie also enjoys the coaching provided by the Ideal Health Clinic.

“The staff are great, easy to talk to and really go above and beyond their job to help keep you on track,” said Annie.

“There is no exercise with this diet, so it works for those who either don’t have time to exercise or who are unable to.

“I was either starving all the time or they ended up not being very healthy,” said Annie.

Working with the Ideal Health Clinic, Annie has developed an Ideal Protein friendly menu at MR MIKES, so that anyone on the diet can dine out without the fear of cheating on the diet.

One of the features of the diet that Annie enjoys is the ability to eat real food.

So far Annie has lost 45 pounds and has maintained her goal weight for over a month.

“The diet is really easy to follow. You eat some Ideal Protein food, but you eat a lot of real food,” said Annie. “The goal is to eventually get you to eat the right

“I find it easy to maintain my new eating plan,” said Annie. “This is a lifestyle change that could easily work for anyone.”

For more information about The Ideal Health Clinic contact,

Peace River: 9907 101 Avenue | 780-617-9010 Grande Prairie: 9819 116 Ave | 780-539-DIET (3438) ADVERTI SE ME N T

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* Denotes Professional Corporation

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GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH

What can human resources do for you?

Messner says recognizing the importance of each organization’s internal culture can’t be overstated.

usinesses are nothing without the people who work for them—no people, no business. For this reason, all professional organizations should consider people their most significant asset—the better a business supports its people, the more the business prospers. This is why big businesses always have a human resources (HR) department, it saves them a lot of money in the long run.

“Policies aren’t always black and white. That’s where a company’s culture comes in. It’s how people communicate, relate to each other and work together within the organization. If, for example, you’re having a predicament with an employee, I can come in and facilitate a discussion in the right way to help resolve a conflict,” said Messner.

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“HR can be thought of as an insurance policy because whenever an employee leaves, whether you terminate them or they quit, the cost you will incur is twice their salary. Recruiting and training someone new is incredibly costly, mostly because it’s so time consuming. Much of this time and money can be saved by hiring an HR person to put structures in place,” said Stacey Messner, Chartered Professional in Human Resources.

After marrying a Peace Region local, Paul Messner, Stacey Messner relocated to Grimshaw five years ago to raise their new family, and she brought her incredibly valuable

HR skills with her.

Messner says good HR starts with implementing structure and expectations.

“People ultimately work their best when they know exactly what’s expected of them and they’re empowered. It takes constant communication. It’s easy to communicate too much or not enough, but the trick is to communicate effectively,” said Messner.

Messner has a wide variety of services to accommodate small businesses, whether they are established or just starting out, as well as family businesses of any size, non-profits, societies and even job seekers.

“I can be hired by the hour, perhaps just for a couple hours per week. I can be on a monthly retainer, so you can call me with any HR issues as they happen. I can coach or mentor someone about any questions they may have or about a specific situation.

I can also give a lunch-andlearn talk on most subjects,” said

Messner. “If you’re a job seeker, I can review your resume, give advice on a job search or give a mock interview.”

To help clients understand and plan their investment in her services, Messner has a variety of packages to choose from.

“I’ve created templates that I can customize to suit you and your organization, and I have tip sheets and other resources to share. Many of my clients want to learn to do HR internally. They just need the resources and knowledge to build the proper structure, and then have someone to check in with to ensure they’re on the right track,” said Messner. “I can be that person.”

HR is truly Messner’s passion. She lives and breathes it.

“I’ve always been drawn to the people part of business. No matter what role you work within your organization, I am curious about where you are coming from and how your contributions support the overall strategic human resources plan,” said Messner.

Contact Stacey Messner Today!

780-332-1180

stacey@staceymessner.com staceymessner.com

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COLUMN // NORTHERN LAKES COLLEGE

Online Program Helps Student Fulfill Dreams While Planning for his Future

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defenseman in the Greater Metro Junior Hockey League, Harley Haggarty has devoted his youth to the game our nation loves—ice hockey. However, Haggarty is aware of the sport’s limitations, and in his spare time, he’s developing the skills needed for another desirable Albertan career.

Haggarty keeps an interesting connection to his home province through a program offered by Northern Lakes College (NLC). The Oilfield Operator Training Program’s theory component is delivered completely online, with the exception of a one-week hands-on training block. Northern Lakes College’s delivery method allows Haggarty to play hockey while preparing for a career in the oilfield for after his hockey career ends.

“Last year I played hockey in the states and I didn’t know if I’d play again this year or if it was time to go to school,” said Haggarty. “One of my friends had taken NLC’s Oilfield Operator’s course and I knew it was something I wanted to do too. When I found out the course had been redeveloped for distance learning, it was too good not to enroll. The program lets me play hockey while getting an education.”

Haggarty’s words affirm NLC’s commitment to student-focused, accessible learning. Utilizing technology to open educational borders, the college presents exciting opportunities nationwide.

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“Northern Lakes College offers exceptional programming to students throughout the province and the country,” says Cassandra Gifford, Coordinator of Resource Technology Programs. “Our programs allow students already in the workforce to advance their education without inconveniencing their employer or jeopardizing their salaries.”

Using the Moodle learning management system, the Oilfield Operator Training Program cycles every four weeks, allowing new students to enroll monthly. While hard copy resources such as textbooks are sent by mail, digital copies are also accessible within the software.

Students log in to receive instruction, write exams and check their grades.

However, students are anything but alone in cyberspace.

“Honestly,” Haggarty said, “the program delivery is so smooth, it’s ridiculously easy. It’s all there on the site, everything you need. You can call your instructors or coordinators daily if you want to. That’s probably the nicest part—when I don’t understand something, I just pick up the phone.

There are four people I can call,

equipment used in the hands-on portion of the Oilfield Operator Training Program

pretty much at any time. I can always get a hold of someone. I feel really supported.”

Haggarty will return to Alberta to complete the program’s one-week practical component, but he says it’s been easy to plan his studies in a way that suits his priorities.

“I get to do something I love while securing my future. If it weren’t for NLC, I’d be a 22-year-old coming out of a hockey career with nothing to fall back on. Knowing I have an employable skill takes a lot of stress off my shoulders, which allows me enjoy my life right now,” said Haggarty.

For more information on Northern Lakes College’s Oilfield Operator Training Program visit www. northernlakescollege.ca or call 1-866652-3456.

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RELOCATION STORY

jenna moved back to Fairview, AB after travelling extensively for school and work Jenna Dacyk, 30, is originally from Fairview but has lived outside of the region since high school.

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Where in the Peace Region did you move to?

I’ve moved back to my hometown of Fairview.

Where are you originally from?

How long ago did you move up here?

I originally grew up in Fairview, AB, until I moved to Vancouver Island for high school. I worked and toured around Europe for two years before moving to Calgary for university.

Eventually I finished my schooling in Edmonton where I settled for eight years.

November, 2016.

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Where do you work?

I’m the new Executive Director for Mighty Peace Tourism, the regional destination marketing organization.

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

It’s a love story, really.

When I first moved to Calgary I only knew a few people. I got in contact with one of my brother’s friends who soon became one of my best friends. As time went on we started dating, but life events took us in two different directions, and he moved back to Fairview to run his family’s Honda dealership, Cycle West. After six years apart, and never forgetting each other, timing seemed to work in our favour, and we were back in each other’s lives. Recently, I

moved back to Fairview and he proposed while hiking in the picturesque hills of the Peace River!

What surprised you the most about the Peace Region?

What surprised me most about the Peace Region is how my view of it changed from a child to an adult.

I have an appreciation for the region that I didn’t have when I was younger. I took the place, the beauty and the freedom for granted as it was all I knew. Coming back again made me see all these things I didn’t see as a young girl and missed while living in the city.

RELOCATION STORY

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

What would be your What is your ideal Sunday advice to anyone thinking in the Peace Region? of relocating here?

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

I love to travel and one of the best things about the Peace Region is it allows me to live the lifestyle I want.

Because of the difference in costs between an urban and rural environment, we are able to save more money and travel instead of spending it all on expensive city living costs.

Create networks and get involved in the community.

There are great events happening, places to see and people to meet in the region. Creating a network is important as many things work on word of mouth in the north.

The long summer days, the dark skies filled with millions of stars and the endless beauty of the river valley. There can be a real sense of community in the area and a wealth of knowledge that everyone is willing to share.

One other thing I find different is the service industry. Many people are willing to go above and beyond to keep their businesses thriving and keep people shopping local.

Also, if you are an outdoor enthusiast you can always find something to do within minutes of your doorstep.

Anything to do with the river! We have a jet boat so we tend to boat up the Peace River and find a nice spot for a campfire and smokies. It’s a great way to tour the region and see a lot of wildlife. The long summer days let you go further and still get home late with plenty of daylight left.

What are some of your favourite winter activities in the Peace?

Snowboarding. My local hill, Fairview Ski Hill, has some great natural features to ski as well as a really well designed terrain park to ride.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

With a small family and still being involved in growing the region.

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CRAFTING A LOVE FOR FINE LOCAL LIQUOR The Vault: Exceptional Beer, Wine, & Spirits | 310 Main Street, Manning words by Talena Winters | Photography by you and mee photography erri and Darren Southwick, both 45, are passionate about artisanal liquor and great customer service, and this passion is evident the moment you step through the front door of their shop.

From their friendly staff of five, to the wide selection of small-batch, locally-sourced wines, beer, and spirits, to the bank vault centrepiece from which they derive their name, The Vault is quickly becoming the go-to destination for discerning liquorists throughout the Peace Region.

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Since opening last October 7, they have had steady growth, with their craft beer and the Double Double coffee liqueur from the Big Rig Brewery in Nisku topping the list of favourites.

Tell me about your business. What products/ services do you offer and what can your customers expect?

Darren Southwick: The Vault has been described as a “boutique” liquor store by some of our customers.

We offer all the common products you’d find in a regular liquor outlet with an emphasis on craft beer, small-batch wines and

spirits, and local (Albertan or Canadian) sources.

We offer craft beer on tap, liquor-related giftware, custom gift baskets and educational tastings with an expert sommelier.

We wanted to base our operation on a traditional retail model with personal, engaged service. There are so many options available now.

By engaging customers, we can help our locally-sourced products stand out.

What inspired you to start your business?

When we get out of Manning, we always make a point of allowing some time to explore new food and drink. There is so much variety out there that just isn’t available here. We believe if we enjoy being adventurous our future customers probably think the same way.

What was the inspiration for your business’s name?

We are located in an old CIBC bank, so we knew the theme had to be bank-ish.

People wonder about the name until they walk in— the main vault [of two in the building] is a focal point and functions as our beer

cooler.

What steps did you take to get your business ready before opening? How long did that process take?

When the perfect location became available last December, we began the process of licensing, applying for a development permit and renovating.

Many evenings and weekends were spent building, fixing and designing the new space with the help of our four sons, aged 14 to 23, friends and family. It was a ninemonth labour of love, and it was pretty exciting to see our vision become reality.

Of course, we also started doing research on wines and craft beer and began looking for Canadian distillers with products we would be proud to feature on our shelves.

There are literally tens of thousands of wines available through our supplier, so to drill down to the 65 quality wines we have in stock took extensive research.

What are your competitive advantages? What makes your business unique?

We believe our competitive advantage is our changing

variety and our emphasis on our “as local as possible” philosophy. Instead of competing with bulk liquor stores, we chose to create our own niche, so our wines and spirits are not ones you see on many liquor store shelves. We chose great quality products with very high ratings and reviews but at a reasonable price point.

By becoming educated about the industry, making personal connections with customers and sharing what we learn in person and on social media, we are building a loyal fan base.

We spend time reaching out to suppliers too, which has resulted in being allocated some rare smallbatch products from craft breweries such as Big Rig Brewery and GP Brewing Co., two companies we have featured at several events and on tap. We are proud to turn a spotlight on these great Alberta companies and create followings for them as well.

And finally, our growler bar is unique in the Peace Region, beating out Fort Mac by a hair as the northernmost in Alberta, maybe even Canada.

Customers can come and taste-test fresh craft beer

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from three rotating taps before they refill their growler jugs. Single-keg orders mean the options are always changing—great for our following of beer lovers who enjoy the variety.

Walk me through a typical day at your business.

We are open from 10am to 10pm, Monday to Saturday.

The first few hours of the day are spent restocking and tidying up from the night before. Then it’s on to customer service, engaging everyone when they arrive with suggestions and a little something new to taste.

And dusting, lots of dusting.

After we close at 10pm, we clean up the tap area and get it ready for the next morning.

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OUR GROWLER BAR IS UNIQUE IN THE PEACE REGION, BEATING OUT FORT MAC BY A HAIR AS THE NORTHERNMOST IN ALBERTA, MAYBE EVEN CANADA. Since opening, what have you learned about your business? How do you plan to incorporate this knowledge in the new year?

products that are made right in Alberta, BC or other places in Canada. People love the variety and the fact our inventory is constantly changing.

We have become more aware of local options in every area of what we do.

In the coming year, we will continue to change and focus on supporting Canadians.

Our customers are really embracing our focus on local producers and are proud to get outstanding

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Do you have anything to add, or is there anyone you would like to thank?

Gerri is a registered nurse and she does the books at our other store, Donalta Auto, as well as working at The Vault, and I manage both stores and a freight business. We are at The Vault a lot, but our staff members are really the faces of our businesses. We have a great staff family who have totally bought into the vision that Gerri and I have for the store.

We’d like to thank Shay Steiger, Ward Pharis, Berna Munroe, Lesli Mitchell and Jacklyn Boyd for being as passionate about The Vault as we are. And of course, thank you to our customers, for being adventurous and willing to try new products and support local business.

Find us on Facebook at fb.com/TheVaultManning

Visit High Level

A l b e r tA’ s M o s t N o r t h e r N ly t o w N

All services Museum & Gift shop Visitors Information Centre 18 hole Golf Course & rV Campsites Award winning Parks & trails Aquatic Centre & Arena rV services

Partners in Tourism

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MR. MIKES AT HOME IN THE NORTH Mr Mikes SteakhouseCasual, 8006 99 Ave (West Hill), Peace River Words by Talena Winters | Photography by you and mee hen Benjamin Giesbrecht was looking for a new business that would be a good fit for both his family and the community, a MR MIKES franchise filled the bill. In partnership with his mother, Annie Giesbrecht, Benjamin opened the newly-renovated West Hill location in December of 2015. The new restaurant quickly garnered a reputation for great food and drinks in a cozy lodgestyle atmosphere. They now employ approximately 65 people from the Peace River community.

I think with any business there is no “typical day.”

With being actively involved in the daily operations, our day has a large range of duties from cooking, serving, payroll and working with other groups in the community to help with events.

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Tell me about your business. What products/ services do you offer and what can your customers expect?

Benjamin Giesbrecht: We are a full-service restaurant and lounge offering great food and drinks at a reasonable price. Customers can expect a menu and décor that lead the industry in trends and design.

What inspired you to start your business?

We saw a real need for a new restaurant in Peace

Since opening, what have you learned about your business? How do you plan to incorporate this knowledge in the new year?

WE SAW A REAL NEED FOR A NEW RESTAURANT IN PEACE RIVER AND SEARCHED FOR A FRANCHISE THAT WOULD PAIR WELL WITH OUR NORTHERN COMMUNITY River and searched for a franchise that would pair well with our northern community.

operations. It took a couple years from the first talk with the franchise to opening our doors.

What steps did you take to get your business ready before opening? How long did that process take?

What are your competitive advantages? What makes your business unique?

Too many steps to count! We were actively involved in all stages of opening the business from design, to functionality, to construction, to daily

As franchisees, we have access to a large pool of resources in all facets of the hospitality industry.

Walk me through a typical day at your business.

Since opening, I have learned a great deal about what customers expect.

Also, there are many groups in the community that need help to put on community events. Moving forward, we are going to try to help these groups, which will not only help our business, it will help the community at the same time.

Do you have anything to add, or is there anyone you would like to thank?

Thanks to all the people in the Peace Region for supporting us in our first year.

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LITTLE STORE WITH A BIG JOB The Little Farm Store | 9806 100 Ave (Main Street), High Level Words by Talena Winters | pHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED s farmers, Lyndon Batt, 40, and his wife Melissa, 38, are used to doing what needs to be done. Frustrated by how far they had to travel from High Level to get the farm’s necessary supplies, they decided to take care of the job themselves, and The Little Farm Store was born.

Since they opened on June 8, 2016, they have certainly been meeting the needs of their northern community and many others around it, serving customers from as far away as Yellowknife.

nothing in the Territories, so it’s here or you drive another one-and-a-half hours to La Crete.

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Tell me about your business. What products/ services do you offer and what can your customers expect?

Lyndon Batt: We have a small family business, just the two of us, so we’re on a first-name basis with a lot of our customers. It’s the same as old-time businesses— pretty laid-back with friendly, reliable service.

Our store isn’t huge, but we carry farm supplies and feed, tack, and pet supplies and accessories, even bird feed. The Acana brand of dog food is a huge seller.

What inspired you to start your business?

Sometimes people come and buy up supplies so we run out, but we get supplies weekly. It’s been very welcomed.

I own a farm, and there was no farm store or pet store in High Level, and nowhere to get supplies and feed. If you needed something you had to take a half day off work to drive to the nearest one, and they may or may not have what you need. So we covered all that up in one shot.

What was the inspiration for your business’s name?

The name just popped into my head and stuck there.

Someone asked, “What are you going to call yourself?”

“I don’t know, ‘The Little Farm Store,’” I said.

That’s literally how it happened.

What steps did you take to get your business ready before opening? How long

did that process take?

This building was previously a Mark’s Work Wearhouse that was standing empty.

We gave it a good cleaning and a paint job and it was pretty much ready to go— minus all the paperwork, lawyers and loans.

What are your competitive advantages? What makes your business unique?

Location is a huge advantage. We’re the only farm supply in High Level.

The closest one south of us is in La Crete, one and a half hours away, and there are none further north.

We’ve had people from Hay River, Fort Simpson, Keg River and Yellowknife— it’s phenomenal. We had a lady come down from Yellowknife and cleaned us out of horse feed. There is

Since opening, what have you learned about your business? How do you plan to incorporate this knowledge in the new year?

I’ve learned how much people truly love their pets.

It’s amazing what some people spend on them. It’s opened us up to bringing in the wacky things you never think would sell, but they disappear fast—like life jackets for dogs. We carry other dog clothes, too, like skidoo suits, sweaters and boots. We order something new every week, and have doubled our selection since June.

Do you have anything to add, or is there anyone you would like to thank?

We would like to thank the many communities we serve for their support.

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SERVING UP A MODERN CLASSIC Hines Creek Café & The Hideout Pub, 215 10 Street Hines Creek Words by Talena Winters | Photography by you and mee he business partnership between Cindy Broadhead and Barry Oliver seems like the perfect recipe for success— with Cindy’s cooking skills and Barry’s experience in hospitality, working in the food service industry together was a natural fit.

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In 2016, they opened not one but two restaurants in the Peace Region—KT’s Pub in Fairview in July, and Hines Creek Café & The Hideout Pub on November 4—and now they employ eight people. Their menus 32

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include items such as pizzas, burgers, sandwiches and wings, which are sure to please a wide range of palates.

Tell me about your business. What products/ services do you offer and what can your customers expect?

Barry Oliver: We have a home-style menu filled with delicious food as well as a wide range of beers and wine. We have friendly, courteous staff serving our customers in a clean and

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modern atmosphere.

We have a pool table, and in the future, we’ll be bringing in video lottery terminals and install big screen TVs for watching sporting events.

What inspired you to start your business?

We always liked the hospitality business. Cindy is an excellent cook, and I was in the hospitality business before.

What was the inspiration for your business’s name?

The Fairview location was named after my daughter Katie. For Hines Creek, we wanted it to be a nice, quiet place to hide out for a bit and enjoy good food and drinks in good company, so we named it The Hideout Pub. What steps did you take to get your business ready before opening? How long did that process take?

We started KT’s from an empty stall in the Mall on Main. The renovations and expansions took approximately four months.

In Hines Creek, we totally renovated the restaurant and Hideout Pub over a period of about three months, which involved many hours of labour and seeminglyendless paperwork.

What are your competitive advantages? What makes your business unique?

We have excellent staff, who are friendly, courteous, experienced and welltrained. We also have good food and a clean, modern atmosphere. Everyone works hard to succeed. We all enjoy our jobs and love compliments on our food, service and facilities.

Walk me through a typical day at your business.

A typical day usually starts at 6am with baking, preparing both places for the day, bookkeeping,

stocking, creating work schedules, ordering, maintenance, covering shifts and more.

Since opening, what have you learned about your business? How do you plan to incorporate this knowledge in the new year?

We are always looking to expand into different things and new ideas to keep us on top. In the Hines Creek location, video lottery terminals will be coming

soon. We plan to open a new liquor store as well as totally renovating the outside this spring, adding a patio deck with heaters and big screen TVs. Watch for new menus, excellent pizza takeout and a hair salon. We also have plans for a liquor store at our Fairview location.

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Signature Events Stay Active Art Galleries Ski the Peace

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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 this edition of Go Might Peace you will find a plethora of ideas to help you stay active this winter, a jampacked events calendar, information on upcoming signature events and more.

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YELLOWKNIFE HAY RIVER HIGH LEVEL T MANNING

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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 up-to-date information visit Mighty Peace Tourism on Facebook.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

GRIMSHAW

MILE ZERO MACKENZIE HIGHWAY

632 381 180 52

Winter

There are two kinds of people.

Which one are you?

Tell us with a video, image or story and you could win great prizes! for more information visit fb.com/mightypeacetourism

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Spotlight | Featured Events

March 10-12, 2017

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he dates have been finalized and the anticipation is building. The 2017 Alberta Pond Hockey Championships will be held March 10 – 12, 2017.

Reunite with your friends over a weekend when time can stand still and we can all be kids for three days.

This Alberta Pond Hockey Championship will go down in history. Make sure you keep an eye on the APH social media channels and website for updates.

The APH association is excited to announce there will be cash prizes awarded to winning teams in the Competitive Division this year. Like previous Alberta Pond Hockey Championships, the divisions are: Competitive, Recreational, Womens and Juniors. The registration fee is $500 per team with the Junior Division playing for free!

event put on by the Peace River Northern Lites Speed Skating Club in partnership with the Alberta Pond Hockey Association. APH will also be hosting ringette games on Sunday. MR MIKES SteakhouseCasual will be on-site cooking up a storm and serving delicious cold beverages. The Tim Hortons Cruiser will also be on-site serving up hot beverages.

New to the 2017 APHC is a sanctioned speed skating

Like previous years, the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex will

be the venue for the all ages Gala on March 11, 2017.

Slappy Pappy will perform on stage at the Pond Hockey Gala. Opening for Slappy Pappy is local country singer/songwriter Dylan Gillet and his band.

There are lots of surprises in store for the 2017 Alberta Pond Hockey Championships. Don’t miss out on the fun. Mark the dates in your calendar.

See you all on the pond!

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

carnaval de st-isidore: feb. 17-19 T

he St. Isidore Carnaval is celebrating 35 years on February 17th to 19th, 2017.

We’ll be rolling out the red carpet to help make the weekend special.

The Carnaval Tapis Rouge will offer a dynamic program highlighting French Canadian music, local artistes and performers, great winter fun and our famous French Canadian cuisine.

The Carnaval will also be crowning a king and queen and they will help start off our Gala on Saturday night.

activities, shows and as usual, the amazing joie de vivre that exists in this vitalizing community.

Get ready to see and experience culture through decorations, outdoor

Our website www.centreculturelstisidore.ca will provide more information.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Stay Active Bowling

Unchaga Lanes and Lounge | Fairview, AB 5-pin bowling, rentals, leagues & glow bowling on Fri & Sat. 780-835-2695

Rock & Bowl | Peace River, AB 5- and 10-pin bowling, rentals, leagues, western and Asian menu.

780-624-8866

Gyms

Al Adair Rec Centre | Peace River, AB Drop-in sports, gym with trainer and classes peaceriversportsclub.com | 780-624-2464

Fitness on the Go | Peace River, AB

Fitness classes, weight room, spinning bikes, supplements, trainers, tanning, child care and more! fitnessonthegoltd.com | 780-624-2639

Mile Zero Regional Multiplex | Grimshaw, AB

Spin classes, cardio equipment, strength machines, free weights and more! FB: Mile Zero Regional Multiplex | 780-332-4005

GPRC Fairview Fitness Centre

Two racquetball courts, squash court, co-ed sauna, full weight and cardio room, 3-hole golf course, trout pond and more. Classes available. g prc. ab.ca | 780-835-6689

Jagged Edge Fitness Centre | High Level, AB

Self-directed workouts or private sessions available. 24 hour access available. FB: Jagged Edge Fitness Centre | 780-926-2672

Manning Gym | Manning, AB

Offering circuit classes, weights, cardio machines and more. fb.com/manningwellnessassociation | 780-836-3344

Brave Culture Intuitive Health & Fitness

Women’s only and co-ed classes, dry land training, health coaching and personal training. FB: Brave Culture | 780-834-6453

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

This Winter Swimming Peace Regional Pool | Peace RIver, AB Aqua aerobics, classes, courses, waterslide, hot tub, steam room and more. peaceriver.ca | 780-624-3720

R.E. Walter Memorial Aquatic Centre | High Level, AB

4-lane, 25 metre pool, tot pool, whirl pool, climbing wall and viewing deck. highlevel.ca | 780-926-3663

Fairview Regional Aquatic Centre | Fairview, AB

5-lane, 25 metre lap pool, zero depth wading pool, hot tub, climbing wall, water slide, tarzan rope, lessons, free swims, activities room and more! fairview.ca | 780-835-2812

Other Fun Ideas Tee off at High Level Indoor Golf

A fully-licensed indoor golf facility featuring Track Man technology for serious and casual golfers.

9904 100 Ave. | 780-285-0021

Try the Golf simulator at Rock & Bowl | Peace River, AB

In addition to the great lanes, Rock & Bowl also offers a state-of-the-art HD Golf Simulator.

9720 98 St. | 780-624-8866

Try yoga at The Bodhi Tree | Peace River, AB

Check out the calendar at the Bodhi Tree website for a full listing of yoga classes including classes for beginners, hatha yoga, chair yoga and more.

10004 Main Street Peace River | 780-624-8838 bodhitreeboutique.com/apps/calendar

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

Thursdays: 12pm to 12:45pm Fridays: 12pm to 12:45pm Fees: Adults $3, Youth (6-17) $2 and Under 6 are free. Shinny Hockey is $6.

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: 10:30am to 12pm

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 rink adjacent to the Arena and an outdoor skating path at Jubilee Park.

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: 3:30pm to 4:30pm Shinny Hockey: Mondays and Fridays: 3:30pm to 4:30pm “No School” Public Skating (1pm to 2:30pm) and Shinny Hockey (2:30pm to 4:30pm) dates: 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 Wayne Johnson Community Arena | Berwyn, AB Old Timer’s hockey, shinny hockey, ringette, free public skating and ice rental available.

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.

Free public skate every Sunday from 6pm to 8pm.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

Dixonville Outdoor Rink | Dixonville, AB North Star Outdoor Rink | North Star, AB Whitelaw Outdoor Rink | Whitelaw, AB

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 peaceriver.ca/museum

This is a free program sponsored by the Town of Grimshaw FCSS. 780-332-4005.

FREE WALKING PROGRAM FOR SENIORS

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS FROM 10:30AM TO 11:30AM (UNTIL MARCH 31, 2017) MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX Sponsored by the Town of Grimshaw.

780-332-4005

WALKING PROGRAM

MONDAY, TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY FROM 10AM TO 3PM FAIRPLEX ARENA

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

COUNTY IN BLOOM GARDEN TOURS

DATE TBA COUNTY OF NORTHERN LIGHTS Any County of Northern Lights residents in the mid-North interested in being a part of a garden tour, please contact Trinidy Schmidt, Community Services Coordinator at 780-836-3348 ext.238 or email csc@ countyofnorthernlights.com

COUNTY IN BLOOM WORKSHOPS AND KIDS IN BLOOM CRAFTSHOPS DATES TBA COUNTY OF NORTHERN LIGHTS Keep an eye out for upcoming information.

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FREE AFTER SCHOOL YOUTH FUN AT THE FIELD HOUSE

TUESDAYS FROM 4PM TO 6PM (UNTIL JULY 6, 2017) MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX Come out to the multiplex and participate in free open court time in the field house.

Sponsored by the Town of Grimshaw FCSS. 780-332-4005

PARENT AND TOT GYM TIME

MONDAYS & THURSDAYS FROM 10AM TO 11:30AM (UNTIL APRIL 27, 2017) MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX For parents with children ages 0-6. Parents and children will love making new friends and getting active with the space to run around and play in a safe indoor atmosphere.

TAI CHI WITH JEFF MCCANN

JANUARY 15 FROM 2PM TO 3PM ST. ISIDORE CULTURAL CENTRE Learn Tai Chi for free! To register call 780-625-3287

HARMON VALLEY LUNCH, PLAY LEARN DAY WITH PEACE PARENTLINK

JANUARY 17 FROM 11AM TO 1PM HARMON VALLEY HALL Children 0-6 and their parents are welcome to attend. To register or for more information call 780-624-0770.

NAMPA LEGO CLUB

JANUARY 18 FROM 3:30PM TO 4:30PM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Join us for some fun with Lego. To register or

for more information call 780-322-3954.

LITTLE ADVENTURES DAY: JOURNEY UNDER THE SEA JANUARY 19 FROM 10AM TO 11:30AM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Join us for themed games, crafts, stories and snacks as we explore the ocean. For children 0-6. Parental/guardian supervision required. Please register prior to January 13. To register or for more information call 780-322-3954.

DREAMCATCHER WORKSHOP

JANUARY 19 FROM 6PM TO 8PM PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY With instructor Antoinette Willier. For ages 12+. Please register by January 18. Space is limited to 15 participants. $12.

POKEMON GO LURE PARTY

JANUARY 21 FROM 1PM TO 2PM PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY All ages welcome. Free Wi-Fi.

YOUTH OUTING: PIZZA AND BOWLING IN GIROUXVILLE

JANUARY 21 | BUS LEAVES AT 1PM SHARP PICK UP/DROP OFF AT NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Bring additional funds for extra snacks and beverages. Please register prior to January 16th. To register or for more information call 780-322-3954.

CADOTTE LAKE ICE FISHING AND SLIDING DAY

JANUARY 21 FROM 1PM TO 6PM Bring your fishing gear and toboggans for a day of winter fun! Hot chocolate and hot dogs will be provided. For more information call 780-629-2476.

PEACE OF ART PRESENTS “O CANADA” OPENING RECENTION

JANUARY 25 FROM 6PM TO 8PM PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Canadian music, spoken word performances, bannock and hot chocolate. Exhibit will run from January 25 to February 22. For more information call 780-618-1306.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

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Winter 2017 COFFEE & COLOURING AT FARMERS

JANUARY 25 FROM 7PM TO 8PM FARMERS RESTAURANT IN NAMPA For adults 16 years and older. Join us for a relaxing evening or colouring, conversation and a warm beverage. We will provide the colouring books and supplies. Please register prior to January 19. To register or for more information call 780-322-3954.

NERF WARS

JANUARY 27 FROM 4:45PM TO 6PM PEACE RIVER MUNICIPAL LIBRARY Ages 6+. Parents welcome. Registration required.

WATT MOUNTAIN WANDERERS DRAG RACES

FEBRUARY 4 MOSQUITO CREEK RODEO GROUNDS Registration from 9am to 11am with race to follow. Classes from single cylinder to open class. $20 per class registration with $10 insurance and $5 gate fee. For more information call Lyle Lambert at 780-502-3530.

NAMPA GOLDEN PIONEERS COMMUNITY SUPPER

FEBRUARY 8 NAMPA SENIORS DROP IN CENTRE Dinner is served at 6pm. Prices: Adults $12, Children (ages 7-12) $6, Free for children 6 and under. For more information call 780-322-3751.

CADOTTE LAKE FAMILY DAY CELEBRATION

FEBRUARY 9 FROM 4PM TO 7PM MAMOWINTOWIN HALL Games, crafts and snacks. For more information call 780-629-2476.

WINTER PLAYGROUND PARTY

FEBRUARY 10 FROM 10AM TO 11:30AM MARIE REINE PLAYGROUND Weather dependant. For parents with children ages 0-6. Enjoy seasonal games, activities, art and yummy snacks. For more information call 780-322-3954.

YOUTH OUTING: SWIMMING IN PEACE RIVER FEBRUARY 11 FROM 3PM TO 5:15PM PICK UP/DROP OFF AT THE NAMPA FCSS OFFICE

Please register prior to February 6th.

To register or for more information call 780-322-3954.

BURN ‘N’ MAHN DUELING PIANOS

FEBRUARY 11 AT 7PM GPRC ATRIUM IN FAIRVIEW Hosted by the Rotary and GPRC. Tickets are $50 and are available at gprc.ab.ca, from Rotary members, at GPRC or phone 780-835-6614.

NAMPA GOLDEN PIONEERS BINGO

FEBRUARY 12 AT 2PM NAMPA SENIORS DROP IN CENTRE 25¢ per Bingo game. For more information call 780-322-3751.

ALLEYCATZ SKIPPING CLUB ANNUAL SUPPER AND SILENT AUCTION FEBRUARY 12 BROWNVALE REC CENTRE fb.com/alleycatzskippingclub

NAMPA AFTERSCHOOL CLUB: VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY FEBRUARY 13 FROM 3:30PM TO 5PM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Games, crafts, snacks and more. To register or for more information call 780-322-3954.

CADOTTE LAKE COUPLES NIGHT OUT IN CELEBRATION OF VALENTINE’S DAY

FEBRUARY 14 FROM 5PM TO 7PM MAMOWINTOWIN HALL Dinner served to registered participants.

Reservations required. To make a reservation or for more information call 780-629-2476.

LITTLE ADVENTURERS DAY: IN THE JUNGLE

FEBRUARY 16 FROM 10AM TO 11:30AM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Join us for themed games, crafts, stories and snacks as we explore the jungle. For children ages 0-6. Parental/Guardian supervision required. Register prior to February 10.

To register or for more information call 780-322-3954.

FAMILY FUN NIGHT

FEBRUARY 17 FROM 7PM TO 9PM MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX If your family is looking for a place where you can burn off energy and have fun, why not come out to the Field House at the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex for free Family Fun Nights (Open Court usage). Sponsored by the Town of Grimshaw FCSS. 780-332-4005.

ST. ISIDORE CARNAVAL TAPIS ROUGE

FEBRUARY 17 TO 19 ST. ISIDORE CULTURAL CENTRE Celebrating 35 years! Hay rides, family concessions, live entertainment and more! For more information call 780-624-8481.

FAMILY DAY

FEBRUARY 20 FROM 11AM TO 3PM MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX IN GRIMSHAW Free hot dogs and hot chocolate, children’s entertainment and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

FAMILY DAY

FEBRUARY 20 Enjoy Family Day around the region. Check the County of Northern Lights event calendar for events near you! countyofnorthernlights.com

NAMPA FAMILY DAY CELEBRATION

FEBRUARY 20 FROM 1PM TO 3PM AT MILL BROWN PARK: Hay rides, snow taffy, bannock on a stick, snowshoe races, snowman competition, family activities & hot chocolate and hot dogs at Farmers Restaurant.

FROM 3PM TO 5:30PM AT NAMPA COMPLEX: Free skate (from 3pm to 4pm) & Shinny Hockey (from 4pm to 5:30pm).

For more information call 780-322-3954.

NAMPA LEGO CLUB

FEBRUARY 22 FROM 3:30PM TO 4:30PM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Join us for some fun with Lego. For more information or to register call 780-322-3954.

GET YOUR CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING

FEBRUARY 22 FROM 7PM TO 9PM FARMERS RESTAURANT IN NAMPA Feed your body and mind with this juice

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

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Upcoming Events Continued... and draw night. Introduction to juicing and step-by-step drawing tutorial. No drawing experience necessary. It’s all about being creative. For ages 14 and up. $25 per person (includes supplies, juice shots and appetizers). Please register prior to February 17. To register or for more information call 780-322-3954.

WATT MOUNTAIN WANDERERS POKER RALLY

FEBRUARY 25 IN HIGH LEVEL Rally starts at 10am to finish. Starting point at the UWASH Car Wash (Ghost hands are available. November 1 at any WMW event).

Grand prize: 2015 Yamaha Viper, 2nd Prize: $500 Gift Certificate, 3rd Prize: Snow Gear.

For more information call Barry Toker at 780-926-1231.

BALANCE AND STRETCHING INFO SESSION FEBRUARY 27 FROM 10AM TO 11:30AM NAMPA FCSS OFFICE Free information session. To register or for more information call 780-322-3954.

POKER RALLY

MARCH 4 REGISTRATION AT 10AM ST. ISIDORE CULTURAL CENTRE Advance tickets for the banquet are required.

Cut off date is February 15. Tickets can be purchased at Mighty Peace Powersports and RV in Peace River. For more information call Travis Wood at 780-617-8080.

WATT MOUNTAIN WANDERERS DRAG RACES

MARCH 4 MOSQUITO CREEK RODEO GROUNDS Registration from 9am to 11am with race to follow. Classes from single cylinder to open class. $20 per class registration with $10 insurance and $5 gate fee. For more information call Lyle Lambert at 780-502-3530.

ALBERTA POND HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIPS MARCH 10-12 LAC CARDINAL IN THE MD OF PEACE Four divisions (Competitive, Recreational, Women and Junior) compete on Lac Cardinal. Cash prize for winner of

competitive division. Food trucks, speed skating, Gala on March 11 at the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex and more. albertapondhockey.com

FAMILY FUN NIGHT

MARCH 10 FROM 7PM TO 9PM MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX If your family is looking for a place where you can burn off energy and have fun, why not come out to the Field House at the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex for free Family Fun Nights (Open Court usage). Sponsored by the Town of Grimshaw FCSS. 780-332-4005.

NORTHERN LIGHTS REGIONAL HUMANE SOCIETY’S 9TH ANNUAL NEWFIE NIGHT

MARCH 11 FLAMINGO INN IN HIGH LEVEL 50/50 draw, silent auction, balloon raffle, Jigg’s dinner and live music!

SMITH MILLS SNOWMOBILE TRAIL GRAND OPENING

MARCH 11 Ribbon cutting will take place simultaneously at both the west end staging ares, located just north of Stoney Lake on the Canfor P-100 road, and the east end staging area, located just north of Figure Eight Lake. Scanalta Power Sales Ltd. from Hines Creek will be hosting a wiener roast at the rest area at the midpoint of the trail as well as sponsoring the door prize draw for those in attendance.

Guided end-to-end tours of the trail will be available. Contact Dwayne Bucholtz at 780-618-1504 or amen@telus.net for more information.

WATT MOUNTAIN WANDERERS FISHING DERBY

CLEAR HILLS COUNTY 23RD ANNUAL AGRICULTURAL TRADE SHOW

APRIL 8 DAVE SHAW MEMORIAL COMPLEX IN HINES CREEK Showcasing some of the latest products, services, diversity and technology available in agriculture and rural life. More than 90 exhibits participate each year. From the latest in large agriculture equipment to small items that make daily farm life and family tasks more efficient. Everyone attending the show will find something of interest. Admission is free.

EASTER WEEKEND

APRIL 14 TO 17 Check the County of Northern Lights event calendar for events near you. countyofnorthernlights.com

BREAKFAST WITH THE BUNNY

APRIL 15 FROM 8:30AM TO 11AM HARMON VALLEY HALL Pancake breakfast, crafts, games, egg hunt and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. In partnership with the Nampa/Northern Sunrise County Community Services and Harmon Valley Ag Society. For more information call 780-322-3954.

FAMILY FUN NIGHT

APRIL 21 FROM 7PM TO 9PM MILE ZERO REGIONAL MULTIPLEX If your family is looking for a place where you can burn off energy and have fun, why not come out to the Field House at the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex for free Family Fun Nights (Open Court usage). Sponsored by the Town of Grimshaw FCSS. 780-332-4005.

MANNING REGIONAL TRADE SHOW

MARCH 12 HUTCH LAKE Registration is $50/hole with a 2 hole maximum. For more information, contact Claude Duval at 780-821-0263.

APRIL 21 & 22 MANNING SPORTS CENTRE For more information or to register a booth, visit countyofnorthernlights.com

BROWNVALE COMMUNITY CLUB ANNUAL EASTER HAM BINGO

APRIL 23 TO 29 Check the County of Northern Lights events calendar for events near you. countyofnorthernlights.com

APRIL 8 BROWNVALE REC CENTRE

VOLUNTEER WEEK CELEBRATIONS

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Have you tried these great sledding hills?

GPRC Hill, South of the Aquatic centre In Fairview

Centennial Park in High Level

Chinchaga Hills in High Level

Peace River North End Sledding Hill

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

Art Galleries

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Fairview Fine Arts Centre 10801 103 Ave., Fairview, AB | 780-835-2697 Gift Shop, Gallery, studio space for clay, weaving, painting and glass.

The Peace River DMI Art Gallery at the Peace River Municipal Library 9807 97 Ave. | 780-624-4076 Featuring revolving monthly exhibits Gallery at the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre 10302 99 St., Peace River | 780-624-4261 Featuring a monthly solo exhibit by the “artist of the month�.

Frameworks Custom Framing and Gallery 9903 100 Ave., Peace River, AB | 780-624-1984 Offering an extensive selection of original local art, prints and photography.

Java Domain 10107 100 St., Peace River, AB | 780-624-5557 Local artwork and photography on display and available for sale.

Mackenzie Crossroads Museum and Visitors Centre 10803 96 St., High Level, AB | 780-926-4811 Travelling art exhibit coming to the Mackenzie Crossroads Museum in January.

For more information visit www.mightypeace.com

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

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 featuring an expert run, a triple chair lift, a t-bar a handle tow, a chalet, a rental shop and more! 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 it for yourself.

Another great river valley ski hill, Fairview Ski Hill has three 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

The revitaized spa owners and Staff

THE FAMILY THAT STYLES TOGETHER, STAYS TOGETHER Revitalized Spa, 10906 102 Ave, Fairview Words by Talena Winters | Photography by you and mee inda McKay, 47, and her daughters Laurel Schwerdt, 23, and Megan Schwerdt, 26, think of Revitalized Spa as more of a family than a business. In their case, this is literal as well as figurative, with eight of the ten staff members being relatives of some sort. Since opening on February 1, 2016, their family has expanded with each customer who walks in the door.

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Tell me about your business. What products/services do you offer and what can your customers expect?

microdermabrasion, laser antiaging treatments, nail services and makeup application.

Megan Schwerdt: Our most popular services are hair services, massage, intuitive energy treatments and eyelash extensions. Besides this, we offer other spa and salon services such as body sugaring and waxing, lash and brow tinting, brow waxing, laser hair removal,

We believe customer service is key, so we provide quality service and a friendly and professional atmosphere.

We strive to be the best at what we do and make sure everyone leaves happy.

Co-owner Laurel Schwerdt shows off a unique feature of the Revitalized spa, the Green Circle Certified recycling system. Revitalized recycles up to 95 per cent of the salon’s waste.

What inspired you to start your business?

Mom and I had been working together, pairing our services of energy healing and massage therapy. Our clients kept insisting that Laurel, who was a hairstylist at another location, should join us so we could have a full-service “one-stop shop.”

Once word of our plans for the new business got out, more ladies wanted to join the team.

What was the inspiration for your business’s name?

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We called the business Revitalized Spa because we want everyone to feel rejuvenated and revitalized when they leave.

What steps did you take to get your business ready before opening? How long did that process take?

We started planning our renovations and buying supplies in November 2015, before we even had access to the building. Once our lease began on January 1, we packed up the paint and tools and got to work.

Some of the hairstylists had appointments on January 5, so we started in their area.

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Even still, the stylists had to use floor length mirrors leaned against the wall for the first week while we were building their stations. We were pretty much done renovating by January 15 and had our grand opening on February 1.

What are your competitive advantages? What makes your business unique?

We are a Green Circle Certified Salon, the first salon in the region to fully commit to making the planet a greener place. We recycle up to 95 per cent of our waste, even the hair that gets swept up, which gets used to help clean up

oil spills and make counter tops and pet beds.

We give clients a “green dollar” for each empty shampoo bottle they bring in to be used towards purchasing new products, and we are always on the lookout for healthier and more natural products for our clients to use. We don’t want them to have to compromise their health for beauty.

We also have a boutique featuring Canadian-made items, including handcrafts and three clothing lines.

Co-owner Megan Schwerdt poses outside of her salon, Revitalized.

Walk me through a typical day at your business.

When our receptionist, Kristen, opens the shop, it’s like “the calm before the storm.” Once clients begin to arrive it feels like a Vegas casino, but time flies by. Our clients often know each other, so between the staff and clients we can have fifteen people involved in one conversation. People just enjoy being there. We love that about our place!

Since opening, what have you learned about your business? How do you plan to incorporate this knowledge in the new year?

two days. So, I learned to listen to my mom.

WE RECYCLE UP TO 95 PER CENT OF THE SALON’S WASTE—EVEN THE HAIR THAT GETS SWEPT UP. We have learned to listen to our clients, trust ourselves and follow our intuition.

We were worried about only bringing in Canadian products to our boutique, but the customers love it and often ask which part

Do you have anything to add, or is there anyone you would like to thank?

of the country their new purchase is from.

I put together a workshop in January, which my mom convinced me would be fine so soon after the holidays, and it was booked solid in

We truly love our team, our business and our jobs.

Thank you to our clients, friends and family, who have shown us support from day one, when there was still the smell of paint in the air and maybe a little drywall dust in our hair.

Thanks for giving life to a little idea.

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^^

Kihkwahâakiîs (pronounced: Kihkwa haagees) The Wolverine Submitted by Billy Joe Laboucan, Chief, Lubicon Lake #453

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ong ago, before human beings were here on Mother Earth, all the animals were able to understand and talk to each other.

They helped each other in times of need or crisis. For example, as a community they would store food for the upcoming cold winter months.

going to be winter. I don’t have a warm place to stay tonight, nor food to eat.”

In a group effort, they would build a loft high in tall trees. They stored dry meat and fish, extra hides and medicines there. They would then move to their respective wintering areas, only to return for those provisions when they would most need it during the winter. This was essential especially for the young ones and the elderly.

Kihkwahâkîs kept on walking but was unable to find shelter from the storm.

Finally, it grew so dark he could barely see where he was going. Then he bumped into a big tree. He looked up and saw what could be shelter, so he climbed the tree.

Thus, the animals worked all summer while Kihkwahâkîs just lazed around, eating when he was hungry and sleeping in the shade. He didn’t have a care for any preparation for the upcoming winter months.

Then, one day as he’s out foraging for food, Kihkwahâkîs noticed tiny snowflakes that were starting to swirl around him. He thought, “Hey, it’s

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The warm seasons were over, and he hadn’t paid any attention to the shortening days. Now he faced the first fall of snow and a chilly wind.

Lo and behold, it was a loft packed with food, lots of food! There was dry meat and fish, berries and pemmican.

There were also hides, both raw hide and tanned hide with warm fur.

Kihkwahâkîs urinated all over the food, for this is what wolverines do so that no one else can eat it. Then, he settled down to eat. He ate, and ate, until he was so stuffed and couldn’t eat any more. He rolled over and covered himself with the robes of fur and raw hides on top. He was so warm and full as the storm blew.

Kihkwahâkîs, by a miracle it seemed, had found the other animals’ food cache. He happily claimed it as his own. As the nights grew shorter and winter arrived, he grew so fat that he only rolled around for more food or to lick snow.

The middle of winter came. It got so cold that the poplar tree bases were exploding. It was bitterly cold and the snow was deep. The animals, unable to forage for food, were getting hungry, especially the very young and elderly.

The animals said to the wolves, “As you are speedy travelers and can travel a long ways, please get our cached food for young ones and old ones.

They need food and extra warm fur blankets.” So, the wolves set off for their food cache, supposedly safe, high up in the tree loft.

The wolves, tired from their travel, finally reached their destination late in the night. It was pitch dark.

They were also hungry. They had planned to eat and then rest for the journey back to the others with some

provisions.

The wolves leaned a climbing log onto the platform. One of them started climbing. As he got eye level to the food cache, a black bulky form knocked him down and the wolf flew backwards into the snow. He barely escaped from getting seriously injured as the makeshift ladder narrowly missed his head.

The now grotesquely fat Kihkwahâkîs poked his head over the edge of the food cache to see what was happening. The wolves called out to him, “Brother, throw some food down for us. We have travelled for a long way to get food for our young and old ones. We are willing to share.”

Kihkwahâkîs snarled in a lisping whine, “What do you mean you Good-for-nothings? I worked hard for this food. Now go away! I’m sleeping.”

“Please Brother, throw us down some food. Even bones will be good enough,” said the Wolves. But, it was to no avail, the wolverine refused to share what he had claimed as his own.

Once again the Wolves called up to him, “Brother, at least share those bones, we can get the marrow out.” So, finally in a great disgust, Kihkwahâkîs got up from the warm furs and kicked over some of the moose bones he picked clean. “Here you Good-for-nothings. Here are some bones. Now, leave me alone!”

The wolves cracked the bones and ate the marrow, and then they curled up against each other for warmth and went to sleep. Before daylight, while the rest of the pack went back to inform the others of their food dilemma, one wolf stayed back under the food loft.

The following night, another wolf slipped in to relieve him as they guarded the wolverine unbeknownst to him.

At last, the days grew longer and the snow started to melt a bit.

Kihkwahâkîs was getting thirsty as he was relying on snow for his drinking water. He looked at the small pools of water on the ground. “I should go get a drink,” he thought. He started to

climb down.

Just as Kihkwahâkîs reached the ground, he felt a searing ripping pain on his fat leg and quickly scampered back to safety not realizing it was now his prison. He looked down, and a wolf looked back at him. He said, “Brother, why did you just attack me?

Wasn’t I good to you? Didn’t I share my bones with you?” The wolf didn’t reply.

Spring was here. The days grew warmer, and Kihkwahâkîs also grew thirstier. He licked dew off the raw hides which was all there was to eat now. He couldn’t get down as there was always a wolf there to prevent him from reaching water.

Finally, Kihkwahâkîs ate everything up except for a moose windpipe that was brittle and dry. He was now shrunk with folds of skin where his fat had been. In his delirium from thirst and hunger, he picked up the windpipe and said, “Well, wife, I guess I have to eat you too.” He bit into it. He choked and fell over dead.

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A SWEET ALTERNATIVE FOR GLUTEN-FREE FOODIES Off the Wheaten Path, 82027 Hwy 744 Marie Reine Words by Talena Winters | Photography by you and mee

hen life hands you lemons, you make lemonade. Or, if you are baker Dawn Merrywick and get diagnosed with a gluten intolerance, you start a gluten-free bakery.

Dawn, 45, along with her two children and business partners Adam, 18, and Willow, 16, opened Off the Wheaten Path on October 31, 2015. Since the launch of the gluten-free, vegan bakery, customers have been flocking to their doors (a mere 15 minutes from downtown Peace River), or have had OTWP goods delivered to them through the bakery’s popular subscription options.

Tell me about your business. What products/ services do you offer and what can your customers expect?

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Dawn: We have a storefront and a regular spot at the Grande Prairie Farmer’s Market every Friday and Saturday. We also cater.

Our most unique products are our subscriptions— Cookie Club and Crate Memberships.

Cookie Club subscribers get an assorted baker’s dozen of giant cookies mailed to them once a month, including our personalized fortune cookies. With Crate Memberships, we deliver a crate of fresh baked goods right to you each week. The crates include bread, vegan cheeses, pantry items, small baked items, and heat‘n’eat entrées. It’s a great way to sample things.

What inspired you to start your business?

I have a twenty-year background in baking and cake decorating. We have always been vegan because of an allergy to animal proteins. Then, my daughter and I were both diagnosed with severe gluten sensitivity.

When you first go glutenfree and realize what your

options are, it’s pretty scary. I thought, “It’s just a shame, because it can be done in such a fresh, meaningful, nutrient-dense, and beautiful way, and somebody should.” Then I thought, “That’s going to be us.”

What was the inspiration for your business’s name?

We wanted a name that would identify us as a gluten-free bakery but that also told people we were located a bit off the beaten path.

What steps did you take to get your business ready before opening? How long did that process take?

We developed all our own recipes. We grind all our own flour and then mix the different flours to the right ratio for what we’re baking. It’s taken us a good year and a half to figure out how the grains behave and what blend we need for each recipe. We try to keep

everything nutrient-dense, with no refined sugars and no gums, which can cause digestive issues. Both kids have a food background, so they helped me convert the recipes.

It took us months to convert to a gluten-free environment. We had to close our wheat bakery for a solid month to clean everything and replace all the ingredients in our commercial kitchen.

What are your competitive advantages? What makes your business unique?

We are the first gluten-free, vegan, fresh bakery in the Peace Region. It’s a growing need. Most of our clients aren’t even vegan. They have gluten intolerance and maybe another allergy, but they can come in here and have anything on the menu. Our kitchen is dedicated to gluten-free and vegan, so there is no crosscontamination.

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Dawn Merrywick and her children, Adam and Willow, Own and operate Off the wheaten path, a gluten-free, vegan bakery based out of Marie Reine.

Walk me through a typical day at your business.

We generally work from 4am to 6pm. We start with breads and filling the cases.

We bake until we open at 10am, then start prep work for the next day. Noon is paperwork and computer work, including a cookbook I’m co-writing with my daughter. In between, we help customers, take orders, chat with catering clients, get ready for the market in Grande Prairie and we prepare crate orders, so a typical day is busy.

Since opening, what have you learned about your

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WE ARE THE FIRST GLUTENFREE, VEGAN BAKERY IN THE PEACE REGION. IT’S A GROWING NEED. business? How do you plan to incorporate this knowledge in the new year?

People want to know what goes into their food. They also want to do it for their own families, so we plan

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to offer workshops to help people convert their own recipes, so they can make family-friendly meals that will appeal to everyone at the table but that are safe for those with food sensitivities.

We’ll also introduce more heat‘n’eat entrée items. I

want to make mealtimes easy.

Do you have anything to add, or is there anyone you would like to thank?

I would like to thank our clients who come out and support local business, my family for their support and help along the way and the community we live in, especially Northern Sunrise County and Bonnie from Alberta Health Services. It’s been a process, but it was worth it.

Find us at www. offthewheatenpath.ca

Planning For Success Means Planning For Succession Achieving success in business is hard work. After all the sacrifice, risk and commitment what’s next? How do you design the future your way? Succession planning is a critical part of the future success for any business, but focusing on day-to-day operations can make it hard to sit down and engage in the planning process. In fact, more than 50% of owners admit they have no formal transition plan in place. Our ExitSMARTTM Succession program allows you to secure your business so you can exit on your own terms. It’s never too early or too late to start planning. After all, dreams don’t retire.

To ExitSMARTTM, contact William Hirtle, CPA, CA at 780.624.3252 or william.hirtle@mnp.ca

Thank You...

The Curtis Marshall Memorial Sk atepark Commit tee

would like to extend a he artfelt thank you to all who supported this big ide a and made the dre am come true.

Thank you to our Sponsors, those who contributed

in-kind labour and materials, ever yone who bought

silent auction items or bricks, and our commit tee

members. We would also like to express our appreciation

to those be autiful indi viduals who never failed in their continuous support and encouragement on this long and challenging quest.

Forever grateful.

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BREWING A UNIQUE FLAVOUR Dwight’s Café, 5822 51 Street Grimshaw Words by Talena Winters | Photography by you and mee wight’s Café began as a quest for a good cup of coffee. When Dan Brusdage, 50, opened the doors on May 4, 2015, he had two very specific goals in mind: he wanted his food to be completely different than the standard

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burgers-and-fries fare found on most other café menus, and he wanted to serve amazing coffee. A quick scan of his menu options (with dishes inspired by the Southwest, Mexico and India) and Facebook rating (4.9 out of 5 stars) show he

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hit the mark. While lattes and London Fogs are now among his most popular items, Dan makes sure everything on his menu is special—with not a French fry in sight.

Tell us about your business. What products/ services do you offer and what can your customers expect?

Dan: We offer things you can’t get anywhere else.

People come in just for our

What inspired you to start your business?

I was feeling dissatisfied at work. I’ve always wanted to try being my own boss, and this is the business that presented itself. Grimshaw didn’t offer the kind of food I wanted to eat or coffee I liked. I do a lot of cooking at home, so I created the menu, which kind of formed itself. There are a lot of cross-over ingredients— tortillas go with tacos and quesadillas, so one thing leads to another. The menu is still evolving to keep it interesting.

What was the inspiration for your business’s name? specialty coffees and teas.

We try to be creative with the food but not so much that people won’t try it.

Even our more standard fare is a little different, like the chicken salad sandwich with curry powder and lime juice or the pulled pork burrito.

Our menu includes burritos, tacos and quesadillas, flatbread pizzas (including a gluten-free option), paninis, pulled pork and beef dip sandwiches, plus soups and salads. Our most adventurous dish is the pork curry, inspired by butter chicken.

I named it “Dwight’s Café” after my dad, who had recently passed away.

What steps did you take to get your business ready before opening? How long did that process take?

I got the idea in fall of 2013, and It took a while to make the decision. I called the number to lease the building, then I got my food handling permit and figured out the menu. Mostly, I’ve been winging it by the seat of my pants!

What are your competitive advantages? What makes your business unique?

I wanted to serve topquality food different from other cafés. Not many meals have gone out that I haven’t personally overseen. I’m in the café 12 hours a day and I either make everything or I’m right there with the person making it.

Walk me through a typical day at your business.

I get here by 8am. Not many people come for breakfast, but I open the doors for regular customers who want their coffee.

I start baking bread or cupcakes and I do my prep work. At 10am, one of my five staff members comes in to help set up for lunch.

The rest of the day is spent filling orders, cooking meat, and doing more baking.

Right now, I close at 7pm, but I just got my liquor license so I’m exploring the idea of changing my hours.

Since opening, what have you learned about your business? How do you plan to incorporate this knowledge in the new year?

find a partner—someone who wants to have fun and be their own boss. There are markets I can’t tap because I just don’t have enough time in the day.

Also, we’re going to be adding bubble tea to the menu soon because I love it!

Do you have anything to add, or is there anyone you would like to thank?

It’s been an amazing ride with soaring highs and crushing lows. Our kids having cystic fibrosis has added to the strain, but we’ve managed it all with the love and support of family and friends. Thanks to my daughter, Danielle, who worked here for a year and a half until she moved to the city in October. A special thanks to my ex-wife Julie, who juggled a job, the café, the house, dogs and the kids.

I would also like to thank our customers for all the nice things they have said.

They have made the struggle worthwhile.

Find us on Facebook by searching “Dwight’s Café.”

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A RESTAURANT IN THE SKY Homegrown CafÉ, upstairs in the Peace River Airport Words by Talena Winters | Photography by you and mee hen Nancy Sparks, 59, saw an ad looking for someone to open a restaurant in the Peace River Airport, she recognized the opportunity to fulfill one of her dreams. Two months later, she opened Homegrown Café on June 1, 2015 with her husbandand-silent-business-partner Mike Harris. With her daughter Charity Marlin, 36, as manager, the restaurant quickly gained a reputation for delicious home-cooked meals and affordable prices. Their first eighteen months have had some ups and downs, but Nancy has the tenacity to make the venture a success.

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Tell me about your business. What products/ services do you offer and what can your customers expect?

Nancy Sparks: We are a small family-owned-andoperated café that serves homemade meals prepared with love and passion. We try to create an “at home” atmosphere and treat our customers as family, so they can expect to leave our restaurant with full bellies and warm hearts. We also cater events up to 60 people.

Some of our most popular menu items include burgers and sandwiches made from in-house roasted meats.

Our soup and buns are a

big hit, as are our delicious desserts such as pies, milehigh cheesecake and giant cinnamon buns.

What inspired you to start your business? What was the inspiration for your business’s name?

I grew up eating homegrown food. It came from the land—we raised it, so we knew it was not full of preservatives and chemicals.

I thought it would be nice for people to go out for a real, home-cooked meal where they know the food is not processed, portioned and pre-packaged.

What steps did you take to get your business ready before opening? How long did that process take?

I dreamed of opening my own restaurant for years.

In April [2015], I saw an ad from the airport in the paper looking for someone to put in a restaurant upstairs. Once we figured out how much it would cost to set up, I knew I could do this, so we applied for our business license. The process took many years of dreaming and two months to make it a reality!

What are your competitive advantages? What makes your business unique?

Most of our menu items are made in-house from

scratch—specifically the burgers, dinner, cinnamon buns, desserts and soups. I come from a big family and did a lot of cooking growing up, so almost all the recipes are mine.

Walk me through a typical day at your business.

I start with punching dough for buns and cinnamon buns, making the soup and gravy, prepping the daily special and making breakfast for customers as they come in. Next it’s lunch rush. I clean and do prep for the next day, then take care of any catering. We also have a good flight customer crowd some afternoons.

After that it’s dinner rush, clean up, close down and thank the Universe for this opportunity.

Since opening, what have you learned about your business? How do you plan to incorporate this knowledge in the new year?

We’ve had our share of challenges. The airport’s equipment started breaking down within the first month, but they replaced the equipment they supplied with their contract and I bought some more.

[A large oilfield company] was operating here when the airport wanted the restaurant, and then it left.

After that we slowed right

down. When the highway construction was happening with its 50 km/h speed limit, no one could make it here on a lunch hour, so we began delivering around town. We’re not doing that now, but people can phone in orders and come pick them up.

Business is learning as you grow. It has many ups and downs. My whole life has been, “Okay, it’s tough, but we can do this.” If you truly love what you do, then I am sure you can be successful.

Do you have anything to add, or is there anyone you would like to thank?

I would like to thank my daughter and manager Charity, and my husband Mike, who takes care of all the business “stuff” and understands that owning a business is a 24/7 thing.

They are my rocks. Thanks to my very hardworking staff of six and to all our customers who drive out of town to see us. This would not be possible without you.

I’m also very thankful to the Peace River Airport for giving us a beautiful little place to have a café with a view. I get the best sunrises.

Find us on Facebook by searching “Homegrown Café”.

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COLUMN // PEACE PARENT LINK

t’s a cold winter’s day in Peace River and laughter can be heard throughout the building. The coffee is on and imaginations are running rampant. Parents and children are having fun at Peace Parent Link.

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The Parent Link Centre’s (PLC) mission statement reads, “We are working with families to give children the best start in life.” As such, all Peace Parent Link services are offered for free.

Drop in Play is available in the hands on, interactive Drop-In Centre—an environment that is updated monthly to fit the seasons and adapt to the interests of parents and tots ages 0 to 6 years.

Families are encouraged to bring their kids, grab a friend and gather for social time and stimulating play opportunities. Drop in Play is available Monday to Friday from 9pm to 5pm and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm.

Peace Parent Link offers a large selection of playbased learning programs.

All programs are interactive and parented—meaning parents and caregivers get to enjoy quality time together singing, creating, building and more. Sensory exploration, music and movement and other early childhood skill-building opportunities make up the foundation of all Peace

Parent Link programs.

years of age.

Parent Link offers programming in their main Peace River office location as well as in several outlying communities including Grimshaw, Spirit River, Manning and Fairview.

Whether it’s Tiny Tunes, Play Learn and Grow, Hands On, or Fast Feet— there is a Parent Link program that’s a great fit for anyone.

In addition to Triple P, Parent Link also offers Circle of Security Parenting (an attachment focused, researched based program) and the “Kids Have Stress Too!” programs by referral or request. New to PLC, a “Bump to Baby” prenatal program is now offered for expecting parents.

An important component of Parent Link services is the wide variety of parent education opportunities available. Through the Triple P Program, a researched-based, highly acclaimed parent education program based out of Queensland, Australia, Parent Link can cater to a family’s specific needs.

Whether the best fit is a tip sheet session, a one-on-one consultation or a group environment, PLC staff work with families to share strategies and create a plan.

Triple P tip sheets are available any time from staff. They address relevant, common topics such as fighting and aggression, tantrums, bedtime problems, toilet training (and many more). Discussion group topics include hassle-free shopping and managing misbehavior and are often offered with free onsite childcare. Teen Triple P is also available for parents with children up to 16

A service available to parents that many may not know about is the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ). Often referred to by PLC staff as “developmental checkups,” ASQs are a great way for parents to see where their children are in their development. ASQs can be completed in several age intervals starting at 2 months. Parents fill out the questionnaire themselves (or with assistance from staff, if needed) then bring it to PLC staff for scoring. Fun activities and information are provided by staff upon completion.

If follow-up referrals are needed, staff members support families in making connections.

Peace Parent Link has become known for its special community events.

The annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic, in partnership with several community organizations, brought in over 400 people to Peace River’s Baytex Energy Centre in June 2016 for an interactive, trade-fair

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Providing free family support for kids event. In addition to the Teddy Bear’s Picnic, upcoming special events include a special 10th anniversary celebration on Family Day, a Triple P PJ Day and a Diggin’ Development event in late June.

As a province-wide initiative, Parent Link centers operate in 53 locations, reaching over 185 communities across Alberta. Additional Parent Link Centres in northern Alberta include High Level, Paddle Prairie, Falher, Gift Lake, High Prairie and Fox Creek.

PEACE PARENT LINK //

PEACE PARENT LINK

Wendy Koene, Coordinator for Peace Parent Link, gives credit to her staff for the success of the program.

“Peace Parent Link staff are passionate, caring and knowledgeable people who give families opportunities to have positive learning experiences,” said Koene.

“Healthy families build strong communities.”

For more information on Peace Parent Link, including a program schedule, upcoming courses and current newsletters, please visit: peaceparentlink.ca or call 780-624-0770.

For more information on Parent Link Centers across Alberta, visit humanservices.alberta.ca/ family-community/15576. html

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

Easy Ways to Market your business with your

SMART PHONE usiness owners often do not have the time and resources to execute grand marketing plans. Many entrepreneurs are left wondering how to maximize efficiency without necessarily breaking the bank or devoting too much of the little time they do have.

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You want to market your business, but you don’t want it to be too taxing. You want to put more money back into the business rather than spend it on other things. How can your marketing activities align with those goals? Digital marketing is a good start.

Smartphones are extremely powerful devices that open doors we never knew existed. Savvy business owners use them to stay on top of everything while on the go.

Here are some easy ways to market your business with your smartphone.

CAMERA You can turn your smartphone camera into a smart business tool. Capture moments and devote time to doing it well.

This includes capturing photos and videos. If you are a ski hill

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then you could get pictures of the ski slopes from numerous angles, people having fun at your ski hill and current snow conditions. Restaurants could take pictures of well-presented meals, restaurant set up, staff having fun, etc.

SOCIAL MEDIA Use your social media apps on your smartphone to create content that ignites and engages your audience. Make sure that it is relevant and resonates with the people who make up your customer base. Social media apps have evolved to the point where you don’t need to use a desktop to effectively manage your profiles. Remember the most important rule of social media— start small and don’t overextend yourself.

CUSTOMER SERVICE Many individuals are gravitating towards social media as platforms to engage with their favourite companies and quickly obtain information. With that in mind, your social channels can be your customer service kiosk. If you are helpful, transparent, answer questions and skillfully join conversations, you could turn customers into some solid brand

advocates for your business. A smartphone allows you to stay on top of these conversations.

USE RSS OR NEWSFEED AGGREGATORS Why is this important in your marketing strategy? It’s a good way to find ideas and learn more about happenings within your industry. This knowledge is essential to your strategic direction. Closing yourself off from what is happening around you is not necessarily a good idea.

The major stepping stone to using your smartphone for business is realizing the power of apps. Knowing how to fully use your smartphone and the different apps available to you will help you execute your marketing strategy more efficient—especially if you are pressed for time, which many business owners are.

Use your smartphone to the benefit of your business!

we are Creatives for hire.

VAULTmedia 780-624-1985