For the Love of Green and Gold
The Future Looks Bright for Oilers Optimisim Towards the Upcoming Season
Nate Hay helps busted and bruised athletes
Burning Questions, Cautious Answers Insight into the proposed Downtown Entertainment and Sports District
Capitals Score Big with Pote
Capitals become home for World Series winner Lou Pote
Winning the Gold for Canada FREE
Volume 1 | Issue 5 | August 2010
This month...
Coaching the Capitals p. 19 Gord Gerlach does what it takes to keep the Capitals focused and playing well
“DRIVE” p. 20
Burning Questions, Cautious Answers
A cannot-miss theatre production that places you in the drivers seat…literally
p. 4 Edmontonians look for insight into proposed downtown entertainment and sports district
Retire your Ride p. 22
For the Love of Green and Gold
An eco-friendly way to upgrade your transportation
p. 6 Nate Hay helps the busted and bruised athletes return back to their pre-injured selves
Shannon Szabados p. 24
The Pursuit of Fitness
Nothing about this season was typical for Canada’s now Olympic Gold medalist
p. 8 Finding the right exercise program for both dog and owner
Capitals score big with Pote
Triathalon
p. 26 Local Capitals baseball team has become home for big league player Lou Pote
p. 11 For someone wanting to get active or back into shape, a triathlon is a great goal to have and to train for
A Golden Business
p. 29
p. 12 Tried tested and true recipe for fluffy golden pancakes makes for a growing business
Paddling for a Cause Dragon Boat Festival in support of Breast Cancer Research is just around the bend
A Deathly Race for a Lively Cause Kari Bowzaylo will take on the death race – solo – running 125km’s over 24 hours
The Fringe and Folk Festivals
The Future looks bright for Oilers
p. 34
p. 16
Edmonton is selling out and packing in for the much anticipated arts and music festivals
Edmontonians are optimistic for a winning team
Front Cover: Shannon Szabados
Merge Magazine selm@mergemag.ca www.mergemag.ca 780.732.7162
Local mom’s group walk and run to raise funds for Action Against Hunger
p. 30
p. 14
#203 - 15505 Yellowhead Trail Edmonton, AB T5V 1E5
Getting connected while staying fit
Photo By: Supplied
Sherree Elm Managing Editor Christopher Dutchak Design & Layout Darryl Plunkie Webmaster Sarah Kmiech Contributing Writer
• 30,000 copies in circulation around Edmonton and areas • Found in Classified Media • Inserted into Metro first Friday of every month • Safeway racks • Select Sobeys racks
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From The Editor... W
elcome to the August issue of Merge Magazine. This month focuses on Edmonton’s sports community, and the individu-
als who have worked so hard for their athletic accomplishments. From hockey to baseball, football and triathlons, Edmonton possesses a strong commitment to its sports, and loyalty to its athletes. This month explores the different supporting roles that attribute to the successes of an athlete, as well as expressing future hopes for Edmonton’s teams. Interactions and connections through sport activities have proven to be beneficial for an individual’s quality of life and relationships. As such, I challenge any women wanting to get into shape and expand their friendship base, to join me in accomplishing a sprint triathlon on September 5th. While this race is women only, there are plenty of others to choose from on www.triathlon.ab.ca. Check out page 11 for full details of the triathlon as well as why you might want to participate and what you can do to start training. Summertime brings the patio chairs and tables out onto the sidewalks, it brings colour to the City, and it populates the river valley trails with athletes of every level. Summer in Edmonton is all about sport, festivals, and the patio! Thank you for reading Merge Magazine….let the training begin!
Sherree Elm Managing Editor
Sincerely,
Sherree Elm
As an Individual, a Business or a Community Organization, visit mergemag.ca to: View the calendar of busines/social/community events Submit business PR Submit a personal Story Submit a social or fundraising event Submit a business networking event or workshop
3
the community | Burning Questions, Cautious Answers
Burning Questions, Downtown Entertainment and Sports District Story by Krista D. Ball
A
storm began in Edmonton when the Katz Group rolled out an artist’s conception of a Downtown Entertainment and Sports
District. For many Edmontonians, it had been the first they’d heard of it. For others, it is a welcomed step towards a new and improved entertainment scene in Edmonton’s downtown core. To others, the plan appeared excessive and unnecessary. Regardless of which side you might be on, or firmly sitting on the “undecided” fence, many people feel that there hasn’t been enough information about this proposed District. The uncertainty, lack of information in the media, and lack of transparency (either real or perceived) has created a number of unanswered questions and uneasiness for many Edmontonians. One Edmontonian cautiously for the new District is James Bjorkquist, an Oilers fan who has attended games and concerts at Rexall. Bjorkquist feels that the current arena doesn’t meet the city’s needs; from parking and transit, to the size of the facility itself. He does admit, however, that the idea of having a new arena downtown sounds a bit like “a bar changing its name for a new image but the same people keep showing up.” Rebecca Fletcher agrees. She is concerned that the proposed District will devolve the area, not improve it. The Rexall arena has not revitalized its neighbourhood. “How will this be any better?” she asks. Jim Taylor, executive director of Downtown Business Association, said one of the first things Edmontonians need to know is that the plans for the District will be so much more than just an arena. He says that many people have the image in their minds of “Rexall plunked down in the parking lot behind the Baccarat Casino,” when this is not the case. The arena would only take about one-third of the District. Instead, the District would also see an expanded Baccarat Casino, with concert venue space and a three-star hotel to attract and support casino and concert goers. It would allow for retail and restaurant space, attracting different businesses that currently would not fit in with the Jasper Avenue retail clientele. There are also plans for residential condos and office towers. Taylor believes that this multi-venue approach is what will make this District successful, as opposed to just an arena without business support around it. Fletcher asked about traffic and where everyone would park. Taylor points out that there are about 50,000 parking stalls in the main downtown core, with 77,000 in the entire downtown. Most are not used in the evenings, which is when hockey games and concerts would be held. Bjorkquist, however, questions how the roads will
4
handle the influx of hockey fans during rush hour in the downtown core. Mat Lavoie works in the downtown area and sees the financial benefits to the District, especially for attracting more concert venues. Right now, Rexall cannot host concerts on hockey nights and there is the heavy cost of de-icing and re-icing. Further, Commonwealth Stadium can only be used during the summer months for concerts. Lavoie does wonder, however, about having a homeless shelter within walking distance of a “glitzy new arena.” Lavoie, Fletcher, and Bjorkquist all asked how this will affect the city’s homeless population and services that are offered in the area. Will it increase crime? Will it displace the homeless into residential areas? Taylor believes that people will feel safer in the area because the proposed District will increase foot traffic during events. The more people in an area, the more safe people feel and the more alive the area becomes. Julian Daly, executive director of the Boyle Street Community Services and future next door neighbour of the proposed District is “cautiously optimistic” and believes that the plan offers great opportunity. He believes that any increase in crime is expected when a large group of people are in an area. However, Daly believes the increase in crime would be from celebrating venue-goers, as opposed to the homeless. “It’s not so much the local population that causes crime in these kinds of cases. Rather, it’s the influx of people.” Daly does think the District would work well for the people served by Boyle Street’s services. Many inner-city people, including Edmonton’s homeless population, have a trades background. These skills could be used in the construction of the facilities, increasing employment opportunities. Daly suggests that the city employ what’s called a “Community Benefits Agreement,” which has been successfully used in other cities in North American and in Europe. Under this idea, the developers and the city would work together to hire from the local community first, build affordable housing in the area, offer community facilities, and enhance grants for the surrounding small businesses. “Development through consensus is the best way this new District can be built,” Daly said. The Boyle Street feels very strongly that; “If our people want to stay, they should be able to stay in this area.” He said that many do, as the inner-city is their home and where many have grown up. He believes “our people have the right, and that choice should not be based on their socio-economic status.”
Cautious Answers He also cautions Edmontonians not to fear the diversity offered in the inner-city. “We don’t need to remove one group of people to have the other successful. Removing one group only makes our community poorer in terms of diversity.” Daly says that “this isn’t about hockey, as much as it is about development. We welcome all kinds of development, and I hope positively.” Taylor agrees. He believes the new District discussion needs to be about the entire area and not about the arena. He feels that hockey games and concerts would bring hundreds of thousands of people into the downtown area annually. With a larger casino and a hotel, Edmonton’s downtown would attract more tourists, especially an older demographic who enjoy gambling vacations. The District would bring people into the downtown that normally wouldn’t come and
Proposed Sports District
would offer them additional facilities, such as restaurants and retails to use. Fletcher and Bjorkquist ask the two questions that seem to be on the forefront of everyone’s mind: “Who’s paying for this?” and, “Why should non-hockey lovers care?” Taylor recognizes that finances are the big issue right now. He points out that there have been no firm cost estimates yet and no firm financial details yet because the District is still in the planning phase. He recognizes that this can be frustrating, but “it’s important for Edmontonians to realize not every question has an answer yet.” However, Taylor firmly believes that this District is in the benefit of all Edmontonians, not just hockey lovers or downtown condo owners. The downtown core has 0.25 per cent of the city’s geographical area and contributes about 10 per cent of the city’s property/business tax. Successful downtowns help keep residential taxes low. He cites in the late ‘90s when the downtown core’s vacancy rate was at an all-time high, the lack of tax-paying businesses created a substantial deficit in the city’s budget. “Where did the city get that money? Residential tax hikes.” He says that even if “you never go to a game, (the District) would contribute to keeping your residential
this isn’t about hockey, as much as it is about development. We welcome all kinds of development, and I hope positively -Julian Daly, Executive Director of Boyle Street Community Services
taxes down.” The good news is that the acceptance or rejection of the proposed plan won’t make or break downtown. Taylor says, “We’re doing fine.”
5
the community | Article title goes here
For the
love of Greenand
Gold
Story by Sarah Kmiech Photo by Sherree Elm
H
e’s not the wide receiver running down the field and catching the game-winning touchdown, nor is he the defensive
back who made the amazing interception that turned the game around. He’s the guy who makes sure that the offensive and defen-
with any type of injury,” Hay explained; “so if they were nicked up at practice, or if they got hurt when they were out walking their dog at night. If anything happens to any player at any time, we have to assess them, know what the injury is, and know how to deal with it.” But it’s on the 110-yard field where the bulk of the more serious injuries happen. “If you ever hear the words being yelled out: ‘Trainer! Trainer!’ you just run out onto the field,” Hay said. When Hay approaches a guy that is lying on the turf, he’s looking for anything that will tell him what type of injury he needs to evaluate: Are there any broken bones? Does anything look dislocated? What area of the body are they holding? “You’re looking for any obvious fractures, like if their bone is sticking out of their leg or arm … anything that could potentially be hurting them,” Hay said. As soon as he reaches the injured player, the first questions he asks are: What’s going on? What’s hurt? Do you have any pain in your head or neck? “If they’re holding their head, that’s a bad sign, they could have a potential neck fracture, which is pretty much the most serious thing you could possibly have,” Hay stated. One of the most severe injuries Hay had to deal with was when former receiver Jason Tucker fractured his neck in a game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats back in 2008. “That was a very serious injury to deal with. If one little thing
sive lines are physically able to all those things. He has the awesome
went wrong, that could’ve gone the opposite way that it did end up
and challenging job of maintaining the health and well-being of all
going,” Hay said.
the players on the Edmonton Eskimos football team. For the past two years, Head Athletic Therapist Nate Hay has been making sure that our home team is playing at its healthiest level.
Tucker was able to recover, and is now the receivers’ coach for the Eskimos. Another stressful part of the job is the pressure of deadlines. It’s
He’s the one who takes the busted and bruised athletes, and returns
not as if a coach can be told a player will be out for two weeks, when
them back to their pre-injured selves.
they will actually be out for five. Hay said this would throw off any
“Athletic therapists are ‘return to play specialists,’ ” Hay, 29, said. “We take people from an injured state and progress them, as best as we can, to return to practice and return to sport.” Growing up in Wetaskiwin, Hay played tonnes of different sports during high school and always knew that being involved with sports was something he wanted to do, but jokes that he wasn’t actually good enough to progress with them as an athlete. After talking with a school councilor at the University of Alberta and finding out what was all involved with being an athletic therapist, he realized that this was the field of work for him. “I thought it was a really interesting way to stay in sports; taking
decisions management would have to make. “You have to be as bang on and as close as possible in your timelines of how long guys are going to be injured for and how long they’re going to be missing practice for,” Hay said; “there’s a lot of pressure that comes along with being right.” An additional degree of difficulty that Hay has to deal with is one that might not be thought of right away, and that would be the physical size of the players. With Hay standing five feet 10 inches tall, having to work with players that tower up to six feet seven inches is certainly a large metaphorical mountain to climb! Add on the fact that a lot of these
care of people at a higher level and being involved, but without hav-
guys weigh in at around 300 pounds or more, and Hay literally has
ing to be the athlete, because obviously I wasn’t the athlete!” Hay
his hands quite full.
laughed.
“Their size is definitely a challenge!” laughed Hay. “It is difficult
The process of rehabilitation involves a range of methods.
working with such huge guys. It can be very tiring when you’re trying
There’s electrical stimulation, laser therapy, ultrasounds, exercised
to do manual therapy with them or if you’re trying to get them off the
based therapy, and the classic heat and ice packs.
field.”
Every type of injury is looked at and fixed as quickly as possible. Even if something happens off the field, Hay is working at rehabbing
6
“Everyday it’s assessing and treating any athlete that comes in
the player back to their full health.
A lot of times it will take two people to carry the injured player off, or teammates will help each other get to the bench. In some
the community | Article title goes here cases a “gater” is used. Hay describes this as a large cart used to drive the player off the field. But Hay said all of these stresses and complications are well worth it for the love he has for the job, and the sense of accomplishment that is felt when looking over what he is able to achieve. “Some days I don’t stop for 14 or 16 hours,” Hay stated. “I’m literally working the entire day on various treatments, practices and administration work; but at the end of the day, I can sit down and think, ‘Holy crap! I did a lot today!’ It makes you proud that you’ve done that much.” But the best part of the job is helping the players get their health back and continue on with their CFL careers. “Taking a guy who’s injured, working with them for a certain amount of time, and then seeing them get back out there and play again in full health; I think that’s my favorite part of the job,” Hay said proudly. As for his future goals with the Green and Gold, he has one. “Winning the Grey Cup!” Hay exclaimed. “I cannot wait until we win the Grey Cup!”
Nate Hay
7
the business | The Pursuit of Fitness for Dog and Owner
The pursuit of fitness for dog and owner Story by Krista D. Ball
P
ack Pursuit!® is a locally owned exercise course that started
six months ago. It’s unique in that it is designed for both
people and dogs to get out together and work those muscles. Local trainers Chris Tse and Jenny Newman started Pack Pursuit!
This varied experience allowed for a fun, but supportive environment. Both Tse and Newman are perky and happy. They clearly love both dogs and helping people stay fit. They encouraged all participants to try their hardest, but never pushed people beyond their
so that dogs and humans could exercise together, with both getting a
limits. If someone was unable to do a specific exercise, they offered
highly intensive workout. They believe that fitness should be acces-
alternatives. When Star needed a break, both trainers took turns with
sible to everyone and their animal companions.
her so that I could finish my exercises.
My trusty corgi Star and I tried out one of Pack Pursuit’s training
Not satisfied with just fitness, Pack Pursuit! is planning to incor-
sessions this month. Since we’re athletically challenged, I wasn’t sure
porate obedience and behavioural training into their program later
how it was going to go. However, we had a blast. Tse and Newman
in the year. They are reaching out to doggy daycares and looking for
truly understand both dogs and humans, and offered a great experi-
facilities for the winter months. They also plan to extend Pack Pursuit!
ence for both, regardless of circumstance or physical fitness.
to other western Canadians cities within the next year.
Tse and Newman are both clearly dog lovers who met while
Overall, I found my session with Pack Pursuit! fun and encourag-
working together at a personal training studio. Both had demanding
ing, with a lot of practical exercise. Both dogs and people seemed to
schedules and often felt guilty leaving their pets at home while they
enjoy themselves the entire time that they were there.
were at the gym, or vice versa, had to miss a workout to exercise their dog. The goal of Pack Pursuit! is to bring together a community of
As for Star? She gives it four paws up. For more details, check out their website at www.packpursuit.
dog lovers that are interested in achieving happy, healthy lifestyles
com. Newman’s dog, Chewy, is on Twitter (@Chewy_PackP). You are
with their canine companions.
also welcome to email them at either chris@packpursuit.com or
The session runs for about an hour and is filled with lots of high-
jenny@packpursuit.com.
energy activities, such as sprints, stretching, lunges, and followed by rest periods. People of all physical levels and abilities are encouraged to participate, as the instructors can modify the exercises for all levels of fitness and mobility challenges. Their classes can even accommodate dog lovers in wheelchairs, as the parks themselves are wheelchair accessible, along with both trainers being experienced with all levels of physical abilities. Even with Pack Pursuit’s growth, their class sizes will remain small. This allows the trainers the flexibility they need to give both dogs and humans a more personalized program. They treat the dogs as members of the class, so that they don’t have too large of a group. Their idea size runs around 8-10 humans, plus 8-10 dogs. Both trainers have a great resume and I found that it really showed. Newman has been working as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor for the past five years with a variety of clientele; from the general public, to athletes, individuals with disabilities, children and older adults, and in rehabilitative settings. Tse has also been working as a personal trainer for the past five years. He too has worked with a variety of clients, including people with range of motion issues to athletes looking to increase their performance.
Jenny Newman and Chewy
8
the community | Triathalon
Story by Sherree Elm
I
t is a well-known fact that physical activity – sport in particu-
triathlon takes these three key lifestyle activities of swimming, biking
lar – promotes well-being and improves one’s quality of life.
and running, and creates an athletic experience which is both chal-
You could even go so far as to say that sport helps one learn about teamwork and relationships, and builds confidence.
lenging and rewarding.” “Challenging and rewarding” are the perfect words to describe
Triathlon is a sport that has increased in interest and popularity
the feeling of accomplishment when you cross the finish line. I was
among athletic and non-athletic people over the last five years. For
one of the first-timers last year when I raced the Elements Triathlon
those who participate, this sport is all about accomplishment; to push
in August 2009. Mixing the three sports in one is not as tough as
yourself to a place you never thought you could go, or get passed.
it sounds. I only learned how to swim two months before my first
Elise Gaudet, owner of Element Cycling & Multisport, has been in
triathlon. On the day of the race, standing at poolside, my stomach
business for three years and will have staged the Women’s Triathlon
sank and my knees were shaking. I was so nervous. But there was no
through her store four times.
turning back for me; I was committed to finishing the race no matter
This year, the Triathlon for Women happens on Sunday, Sept. 5 in Spruce Grove. “We started Alberta’s original Women’s Triathlon over 10 years
how long it took. To my surprise, the swim was over in no time. I was out of the pool, in transition, and on the bike taking in the beautiful weather and scenery. The race was further and further behind
ago with the very simple goal of creating a triathlon experience
me with every step I took, running towards the finish line. And that
for women only. The hope was that the event would provide a less
was it, I was done and still standing! It was an amazing feeling. Only
intimidating invitation into the sport for any women who had any
two hours prior I was a nervous wreck, and in that time passed I was
hesitation about racing,” Gaudet said.
transformed into a conqueror.
For someone wanting to get active or back into shape, a triathlon is a great goal to have and train for. Progress happens quickly with three training sessions a week; swimming, biking and running. A
This year I will do the same, and I open the invitation to train for five weeks and race with me on September 5th. Training with friends or with tri-groups is a great way to stay com-
change in your body and improvement in vitality are a few benefits to
mitted. Koala Triathlon Club in one group that will not only get you
training that are noticed within the first few weeks.
started and encourage you to stick with it, but will also help you to
With a goal in mind, commitment to training, healthy lifestyle, and five weeks, anyone can do a sprint triathlon. Don’t let your excuses ruin the opportunity to experience a sense of accomplishment that is like no other. Gaudet assures that you
develop technique and skill. More information for Koala can be found by calling Jason Britton at 780-935-2454, or visiting www.edmontonkoalas.com. Training sessions are also offered through the Element Cycling
don’t need much to get started. “For this race, all you really need is
and Multisport store. More information on Elements training sessions
some kind of bike in good working condition, swim cap and goggles,
can be found on www.elementsport.ca.
and a pair of runners; and something to wear, of course!” Perhaps the daunting sensation of doing three sports back to back can intimidate someone enough that they would never dream of
A race calendar for all Alberta Triathlons can be found on the Alberta Triathlon Association website at www.triathlon.ab.ca. The Elements Women’s Sprint Triathlon on September 5th is held
attempting a triathlon. Gaudet puts this misconception into perspec-
at the Tri-Leisure Centre in Spruce Grove. It starts with a 750m swim,
tive; “Triathlon is a lifestyle sport. It involves three activities that so
a 21.5 km bike ride, and finishes with a 5 km run. For more infor-
many of us have done as kids, and many of us continue to dabble in
mation, or to register online, visit the Alberta Triathlon Association
throughout our lives. By putting it all together in a one-day event,
website www.triathlon.ab.ca and click on the race calendar. Hope to see you there!
11
the business | A Pancake Business That Really Stacks Up
A Business That Really Stacks Up Story by Sarah Kmiech
B
reakfast is famously quoted as being the most important meal of the day, and one of the most famous breakfast items
of all time are pancakes. That’s right, flapjacks. But a not-so-famous part of this breakfast is the time it takes to measure out all the ingredients (assuming you have all the ingredients to start with), and the mess that is left to be cleaned up when done. Jitterbee Shakeable Pancake Mix is giving the option of a solution to these problems said Edmontonian Frank Santiago, 39, president of Jitterbee. Along with his three other partners, the idea of creating this instant breakfast was based on “people on the go,” or people who may be challenged in the area of cooking. “It’s very quick,” Santiago said. “It’s more of a convenient item for convenient activity.” And it is quick. All the ingredients are already measured out into the bottle. The only steps needed to be done are adding in the choice of water or milk, shaking up the contents, and then pouring the batter into a pan. Starting up his own business was something that Santiago had wanted to do for a while, but no idea seemed to fit quite what he was looking for. “There were several ideas, but you got to feel it, and if you don’t feel it, you won’t sustain it,” Santiago said. But while traveling around Europe, he came across a crepe mix in a bottle, giving him the inspiration of creating something of his own that could be made super fast and super easy. “I smuggled (the crepe mix) back with me!” Santiago laughed. “I gave it to a guy I know who’s a food scientist and said: ‘Could you make something like this into a pancake mix?’ ” This was back in 2005. Almost two years were spent creating the perfect formula for a perfect tasting pancake. “It took over a year to widdle it down to five or six choices,” Santiago said. Santiago considered many things while going through the process of choosing just the right recipe. He looked at how golden the
12
Frank Santiago Photo by: Sherree Elm
heard about how well his involvement with Elements went, they were interested in getting him on board with them too. “I’ve done six pancake breakfasts for Alberta Triathlon this year, and every one has been better and better,” smiled Santiago. Another area that Santiago has loved getting involved with is fundraising. He said he truly enjoys the feeling of helping to make a difference. “I’ve done a couple fundraisers for some schools here in Edmonton; for the Women’s Shelter, for the Children’s Stollery, and the 24 pancakes were turning out, how fluffy they were, how dense they
hour relay for Easter Seals,” Santiago said. “It’s like, Wow! Look what
became, what the taste was like, and how good they smelled.
I did! I made a difference through this,” he said, pointing to the Jit-
Santiago and his wife have four kids, and nutrition is something that they value. During the development of figuring out the right mix, keeping the product healthy was an important factor. “We wanted to keep our salt and sugar down as much as we could without losing the flavour,” Santiago stated. “I think that’s
terbee container. Jitterbee can be found at most Alberta Mac’s convenience stores and in a few throughout British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. It’s also a super convenient menu item to add on to your camping
why it took such a long time to produce, because we wanted to get
grocery list. Since nobody likes cleaning up dirty dishes while holi-
the ingredients to mesh together, and we made sure there were no
daying it up in a trailer, Jitterbee offers a way for you to get rid of that
preservatives in our product.
camping chore by eliminating messy mixing bowls and spoons, but
“And we’ve been playing around with our fibre, but we haven’t
still keeping the tasty results. Because of this, it can also be found
found the right mix yet, but we’re trying to figure out how to increase
at select Fraserway RV’s. For Fraserway RV locations, visit www.
the fibre.”
fraserway.com.
Elements, a triathlon equipment store, recently contacted him
For more information on Jitterbee Shakeable Pancake Mix, visit
to ask if he would be able to support them in one of their triathlons.
www.jitterbee.ca or email info@jitterbee.ca. Phone calls are also
This was something he was happy to do. When Alberta Triathlon
welcome during regular business hours at 780-758-7324.
13
the community | Paddling for a Cause
Paddling for a
Cause Story by Paula E. Kirman
I
n late August, the River Valley will be taken over by decoratively crafted boats moving down the North Saskatchewan to the
rhythm of drums pounding loudly and the power of teams paddling to the finish line. The annual Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival takes place Friday, Aug. 20 to 22 this year. As always, the free event will happen in Louise McKinney Riverfront Park. More than 60 teams are entered, and each year audience attendance increases. For 2010, more than 6,500 spectators are expected to enjoy the races, free entertainment, vendors, and children’s activities. Many of them dragon boat racers themselves, the board of the organization is made up of enthusiastic volunteers who are passionate about the sport, which is gaining momentum worldwide. Darcy Hicks is the race director for the Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival. “Dragon boating is an all-encompassing team sport for all ages, fitness, and ability levels,” Hicks explains. “We have the youth category, ages 13-17 years, that the Festival Association sponsors, providing free coaching, steering, and practicing to develop their skills.” “Other teams consist of either all women or all men, mixed teams, plus the Masters and Grand Masters or Seniors teams that group paddlers over 40, 50, and 60 years of age,” she continues; “We have had organ transplant and sight-impaired teams as well.” The Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival has been around in Edmonton for 14 years. Prior to that, dragon boating was done as a demonstration sport at Hawrelak Park. “Dragon boating is the fastest -growing sport and is popular with cross-training athletes from marathon runners, cyclists, skaters, and skiers, to the arm-chair athlete from a company team that starts with one of our team-building experiences,” says Hicks. “Members of our
14
the community | Article title goes here
Festival
with wonderful results.
Association are
Friendships and fitness have
world gold medal paddlers and are sharing their skills by coaching
grown in teams all across the world.”
new teams. It is a sport that shares a Chinese cultural heritage with our modern day experience.” Another notable aspect of the festival is its support to fight
“Our Edmonton Breast Friends teams have traveled as our ambassadors to numerous locales, including Australia. We are so proud of our local ladies
breast cancer. “The Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival Association hosts
who have been intense competition for the other women’s
the two or sometimes three local Breast Cancer Survivor teams each
(non-survivor) teams. It is heart-stopping when you hear a Breast
year by providing the season’s training practices and equipment. We
Friends paddler say, that she remembers me lifting and assisting her
then feature them and all visiting Breast Cancer Survivor teams in
into the dragon boat two years ago and that the sport activity has
one large tent location at the Festival where anyone can come and
helped prolong her life!”
buy survivor items like wrist bands and jewelry, plus make mon-
Supporting worthwhile community causes is nothing new for
etary or silent auction donations directly to the organization,” Hicks
the organization. “The Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival Association
explains.
has further supported a variety of charitable organizations like the
“There is always the Pink Ribbon Challenge Races for all the
Edmonton Food Bank, Meals On Wheels, Alzheimer’s Society, Fla-
survivor teams, followed by a special Pink Ribbon Flower Ceremony
man Foundation, Edmonton Humane Society, Boys and Girls Club of Leduc, and Paddling for Compassion. Because we are a diverse group, we are always open to supporting the general community
Because we are a diverse group, we are always open to supporting the general community by providing our unique expert resources and equipment to raise awareness of many causes.
by providing our unique expert resources and equipment to raise awareness of many causes. The association provides a non-profit area for groups at the festival, such as the Blood Services this year,” Hicks says. In addition to the Festival, the association is active throughout the summer with activities. “We have a full summer season of practice times, paddling, and coaching development clinics. We put on Canada Day mock race demos, hold Sprint races, and a ‘Taste of 2K’
incorporated into the weekend program. It takes place at noon on
(2000 metre) July 25 this year, before the big main event on August
Sunday, where pink flowers are thrown into the river in memory and
20 to 22, 2010,” says Hicks. Anyone can get involved with dragon
celebration of the breast cancer loved ones that have been lost.”
boat racing. Hicks encourages those interested in taking up the sport
Hicks goes on to explain that, “the combination of dragon
or joining a team to come to the association’s trailer any evening at
boating with breast cancer survivors was originally started to help
Rafter’s Landing from Sunday to Thursday. As well, more information
combat the physical and emotional effects of the cancer treatments,
is available at www.edmontondragonboatfestival.com.
15
the community | The Future Looks Bright For Oilers
The Future Looks Story by Phil Pocklington ello Edmonton, in case you don’t recognize me I’m the
H
Edmonton Oilers. You may remember me from such seasons
that steam rolled the opposition with their speed and skill led by three kids of their
as ninth place finisher, first round playoff knockout, and last but not
own. Maybe you have heard of them? Kids named Wayne Gretzky,
least – last place finishes. I may look different now than in the past,
Jarri Kurri, and Mark Messier.
and that’s because, well, I am. At least that is the hopes of Oiler fans anyway. The Edmonton Oilers are beginning to look much like the old
Am I saying Eberle will be the next Gretzky, or Hall the next Messier, and Svensson the next Kurri? No. But the similarities in talent and passion for the game could bring similar results in terms of team
glory days with the help of some new faces and hopefully new at-
success and championships; things this city deserves after standing
titudes. After a decade of sub-par teams that continually broke the
by a middle-of-the-road franchise for a little over a decade now.
hearts of Edmontonians year after year, it finally looks as if those days could be over sooner rather than later. Who will save the winning starved Oiler fans from the misery
It is no surprise that the well educated hockey fans of Edmonton have taken notice as to what their team may be on the brink of. The Edmonton Oilers recently wrapped up their four-day mini-camp for
of a mediocre sports franchise? The answer is not who, but whom,
all of their future prospects, in which fans packed the arena to watch
and they are comprised of three fresh-faced kids with skill sets that
these three kids showcase their talents. They got to see the blazing
would have any casual fan squirming with excitement and anticipa-
speed of Taylor Hall, the vision and poise of Jordan Eberle, and the
tion for what could be an extremely exciting 2010/11 NHL season.
pure power of Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson as the three highly touted
Those three kids go by the names of Jordan Eberle, Taylor Hall, and
prospects gave fans the show they so wanted to see. In that short
Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson.
period of the time, they gave Oiler fans a glimpse of the possibilities
The Oilers will be riding the coat tails of fast, dynamic, highly skilled offensive kids who are taking the city, and soon to be NHL, by storm. Sound familiar? It is. The Oilers were once a feared jugernaut
as to what could be for years to come. The hardest objective for organizations searching for success is putting together a nucleus of key players to build the organization around. The Oilers seem to have found their core players with these
The Oilers seem to have found their core players with these three extraordinary talents. The key for the Oilers now will be to build the supporting cast to compliment these three players three extraordinary talents. The key for the Oilers now will be to build the supporting cast to compliment these three players. The Oilers now need to find their Kevin Lowe’s or Steve Smith’s, the Craig MacTavish’s, and even the Dave Semenko’s of the team, all of which that are a critical part of the winning equation. If they can find a way to build a similar type of supporting cast, they may be on the path to once again be regarded as one of the premier franchises of the National Hockey League. Regardless of what happens next year, fans can begin to celebrate and be excited about what is taking place with their team. Fans can expect a much more enthusiastic, skilled, and exciting lineup next season that features the likes of a first overall draft pick, a two-time
s Bright for Oilers
OHL
Memorial Cup MVP, and a recent recipient of the CHL player of the
League
Team
Goals
Assists
Points
Taylor Hall
OHL
Windsor
40
66
106
WJC
Canada
6
6
12
OHL
Windsor
38
52
90
Jordan Eberle
OHL
Springfield
6
8
14
WJC
Regina
50
56
106
OHL
Canada
8
5
13
Magnus PaajarviSvensson
SWE
Timra
12
17
29
WJC
Sweden
3
7
10
WC
Sweden
5
4
9
year award. Fans can begin to watch the birth of a team that will attain more than slim playoff misses or early first round playoff exits. Instead, fans could soon enough be treated to a team that could possibly contend for a championship in the future. It will not be easy for three kids to be counted on to resurrect a franchise, or even a city for that matter, but it is something that these kids are willingly taking on with enthusiasm and great pride. Who knows, maybe one day we might actually be able to once again call ourselves the “City of Champions� and actually mean it. No pressure, right boys?
Windsor
40
Source: TSN.ca
17
6
the individual | A Tough Guy To Track Down
A Tough Guy to Track Down Gord Gerlach, Capitals Coach Story by Paul Owen
T
he power is out at Telus Field two hours before the Edmonton Capitals are set to take the field for the third game of their
While Gerlach has recently retired from teaching, he remains heavily involved in the local baseball scene, as he has for the better
five-game set against the Tijuana Cimarrones. While the players relax
part of the past decade. Gerlach has been involved with the Capitals
in the darkened locker room, the Capitals hitting coach and director
for the past two years and with the franchise in its previous incarna-
of baseball operations bustles about in the black.
tion as the Edmonton Cracker-Cats since 2005. He has also worked as
Getting a hold of Gord Gerlach is a challenge on any game day as
the hitting coach of the Vancouver Canadians, the Class A affiliate of
he bounces between his duties on the field during batting practice,
the Oakland A’s in 2002, and even managed the Perth Heat in Austra-
his two offices in Telus Field—one for each title he holds—and meet-
lia for a year in 2007/08, as well as being with the Canadian national
ings with manager Brent Bowers and the various players, clubhouse
team in various capacities since 1998, including as an assistant coach
staff, groundskeepers and medical personnel that are required to
with the 1999 Pan-Am Games team that won a bronze medal. Along
Gord Gerlach
keep a professional baseball team running. With only scant emer-
the way, he’s put into practice the overlapping skill sets from his dual
gency lighting in the bowels of the ballpark, locating Gerlach isn’t
careers.
the issue; getting the only shadow going about its daily routine as if nothing is amiss to slow down, however, is another challenge entirely. “He’s always working; he’s always doing something to help us, whether it’s getting the uniforms ready on the road for the guys, making phone calls to arrange airport travel, or whatever. This all couldn’t happen without Gord,” Bowers says, pointing to Gerlach’s frame in the clubhouse. “He’s a professional, and he wants everything perfect and nice, and it should be like that, just like in the big leagues.” Born in Edmonton and raised in tiny Rochester, Alta., Gerlach has
“I think there’s some coaching in a teaching career and some teaching in a coaching career. Both obviously lend themselves towards being able to communicate with people and have their best interests at heart,” he notes. “Of course, tongue-in-cheek, the other similarity is that sometimes (the players) act like a bunch of big kids,” he adds with a laugh. The similarities extend further; if a teacher’s role in the classroom is to prepare his students to succeed in life, Gerlach’s new role, added this season, as director of baseball operations, is to prepare the Capitals to succeed on the field by removing the potential
made his home in St. Albert for over 30 years, dating back to his days
administrative distractions. This means that, in addition to preparing
at the University of Alberta, which he graduated from in 1979 with
the hitters with scouting reports and mechanical adjustments on the
a degree in physical education. Gerlach also established himself as
field in his duties as hitting coach, he also removes any distractions
a teacher there before the call of coaching brought him back to the
by arranging travel plans, meals, scheduling, equipment and other
game that he loved as a youth.
administrative duties, leaving them to focus on baseball.
“When I left as a player, I took a few years away so I could get
“My job, essentially, is to do everything I can so that (the players)
that out of my system and get back into the other part of it, which is
don’t have any distractions to deal with. … If I can do that, then I can
scouting, coaching and management,” he explains.
expect them to be here mentally prepared to play the game,” he says. “Then I can kick them in the rear end if needed to do so, because there’s no excuses.”
19
the community | Drive Let You Take Control of the Wheel
Driv The
Story by Megan Sarrazin Photo by Centree Photography
Imagine sitting down in your car seat,
being surrounded by
then, the idea has developed into an exciting creation with a diverse and experienced six-person cast. “It’s been a lot of fun. There’s a lot of energy in the room and we all have a lot of ideas. It’s sort of fabulous to work on a show where you’re not working in one particular vocabulary or one particular
dozens of vehicles and construction signs, all the while remaining
style of singing (or dance) ... we move in and out of theatre, talking to
relatively still for about an hour. No, you’re not stuck in summer con-
the audience and having scenes with dance, ballet (then) into modern
struction. You’re experiencing Drive, a production being showcased at
and some tap,” said Acton.
the 29th Edmonton International Fringe Festival! Drive, a theatre experience unlike any other, will have audience
Majority of Drive’s performers have been participating in the performing arts since they were children, and have been rehearsing two
members surrounded by a massive set filled with salvaged cars,
to three times a week since the beginning of May to make sure they
construction materials and a slew of other props donated by Retire
deliver a stellar performance for the viewers.
Your Ride, a country wide initiative to help drivers recycle their rides in environmentally responsible ways. “It won’t be like an ordinary theatre or dance experience where you’ll be sitting in the audience and you’re watching the world on
Acton sees Drive as something new and different for the city, which she says is often too cold to feature more interactive, venue and site-specific theatre and dance. As part of the Fringe’s “Bring Your Own Venue,” where produc-
stage. As soon as you walk into the skating rink, you’re just going to
tions can choose a site-specific location rather than a theatre to hold
be surrounded by the experience of this show,” said Kelsie Acton,
their performance, Drive has been able to provide a more submers-
organizer, director and performer in the play.
ing and interactive environment to the audience, which will make it
The production incorporates singing, dancing, dialogue and theatre into the performance that is written and choreographed to tell a
easier for them to connect with the performance. Drive runs throughout the festival from Friday, Aug. 13 to Sunday,
story all too familiar in the on-the-go lifestyle that is ever so present
Aug. 22, with shows happening every evening at 8 p.m., with the ex-
in the lives of the working class.
ception of closing night on Aug. 22, where the show will be at 4 p.m.
“It’s all about cars and how we expect so much from cars that they sort of become real, and that line between where human beings stop and cars or the machine begins, gets a little blurry,” said Acton. The production is something that has been in the works since the beginning of the year, when Acton first thought of the concept. Since
All performances will take place at the Strathcona Community Centre rink located at approximately 84 Ave. and 101 St. According to Acton, the show features minimal sexual content, no nudity, profanity or violence and is suitable for families to attend. Tickets are $10 and will be on sale beginning Tuesday, Aug. 3 until the show sells out, which Acton hopes to see!
20
ve - A Cannot-Miss eater Production
That Places You In The Driver’s Seat
The cast of Drive
21
the community | Retire Your Ride
Retire Your Ride: an eco-alternative for your rusty car Story by Megan Sarrazin
D
o you have a ride that is cramping your strive-to-be-green lifestyle?
In an effort to reduce smog-forming pollutants in the air, the
Government of Canada has introduced the Retire Your Ride program to help the eco-conscious recycle their contaminating cars. “It’s a national vehicle recycling program (that) has been reducing air pollution by encouraging sustainable transportation and ensuring that the older vehicles are responsibly recycled and retired,” said Pa-
sold as metal scraps. For drivers hoping to sell their old, beat up and pollution-emitting vehicles, Goertzen offers another suggestion. “Instead of selling their vehicle, they (can) basically use this type of service to get rid of their vehicle,” she said. Drivers who choose to hand over their keys will be eligible for a
mela Goertzen, program manager for Climate Change Central, which
variety of different rewards, from cash to incentives towards alternate
is the provinces delivery agent for the program.
forms of transportation, like bus passes or discounts on bicycles.
The program is aimed at getting vehicles manufactured in 1995
Retire Your Ride is a Canada-wide program that kicked off in Janu-
and earlier off the pavement, as they produce 19 times more pollut-
ary of 2009 when Environment Canada committed funds towards re-
ants than models manufactured after 2004. Retiring these vehicles
ducing air pollution coming from vehicles. Despite this, it was started
will reduce the amount of harmful emissions released into the
in the province back in March of 2009 and since then, the program
environment.
has retired over 6,000 vehicles from the road in Alberta alone.
This is because older vehicles often lack the technology that has led to more fuel-efficient engines; and back when they were produced, manufacturers weren’t required to abide by today’s high environmental standards. “Because it’s an environmental program, the purpose of it is to take the cars off the road and have them retired permanently,” said Goertzen. When a vehicle is first turned over to Retire Your Ride, it is taken to an approved
The program is set to end on March 31, 2011 and the goal come this time is to have retired 100,000 vehicles from Canada’s streets throughout the duration of the program. The Government of Canada’s goal is to retire 50,000 vehicles per year, which is a goal that was exceeded within the first nine months of the program, according to Goertzen. To be eligible for the program, the vehicle must be manufactured in 1995 or earlier, and must be
automotive recycler,
in running condition.
where all hazard-
The vehicle must also
ous material will be removed and disposed of. The next step is to salvage various parts and materials from the cars, as long as they are not related to vehicle emissions. These can then be sold or reused for other, more environmentally responsible vehicles.
22
The final step in the process of recycling and retiring the ride is to crush it and shred it into fist-sized chunks of metal, which are then
be insured and registered under your name for six consecutive months prior to it being considered for the program. To retire your ride, find out what rewards apply to you, or to learn more about the program, visit www.retireyourride.ca.
the individual | Nothing About this Season Was Typical for Shannon Szabados
Nothing About
This Season Was Typical for
Shannon Szabados Story by Paul Owen
H
er jersey was red and white with a maple leaf on the front instead of the familiar maroon and silver half-lion half-
eagle of the Grant MacEwan Griffins, and instead of playing for some league title, she was chasing after the biggest prize in women’s hockey: Olympic gold. But more than anything else, the biggest change for Szabados was that the teammates suiting up next to her were women. Excepting her stints with the under-22 and senior national teams, the 23-year-old netminder from Edmonton has spent her entire career being “one of the guys,” trailblazing a path of female firsts in the local hockey world. Szabados became the first girl to participate in the Brick Super Novice Tournament at West Edmonton Mall when she was just nine, setting a trend that would continue for the rest of her career thus far. “When I started, there were really no girls’ leagues at all, so I’ve been the only girl on my team ever since I was five years old. It’s what I’m used to, and it’s what I’ve continued to do,” she said. When she was 15, she became the first female to partake in the Mac’s AAA midget tournament in Calgary, but the real boundary breaking started the following year, when a training camp stint with the Tri-City Americans made Szabados, at the age of 16, the first female to ever play in the Western Hockey League. For four preseason games, Szabados battled future Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price for playing time, but failed to make the Americans team and was granted her release. “I remember when I first signed in the Western League … people thought, ‘Oh, it’s just a publicity stunt. She’s a girl; she can’t play here,’ and then I played there and proved them wrong, and it never came up again,” Szabados said.
Following that, she spent five seasons in the Alberta Junior Hockey League with the Sherwood Park Crusaders, Bonnyville Pontiacs and Fort Saskatchewan Traders, but only after the league’s general managers held a vote to decide whether she should be allowed to become the first female in their league as well. During her time in the AJHL, Szabados was twice named an all-star, and in her final season in 2006/07, she was named the league’s top goaltender. “It was a great experience for me. I know I wouldn’t be the goalie I am today if it wasn’t for experiences like … playing in the Western Hockey League and playing five years of Junior A,” she admitted. “It’s never been an issue—me being the girl on the team; I’ve always just been another player on the team. It used to be an issue when you’re a teenager and you first start noticing the differences, but I’ve played with the same guys (for so long) that it just stops being an issue.” At the conclusion of her AJHL career, Szabados, who had already begun making a name for herself internationally after making her debut with the senior national team at the 4 Nations Cup in 2006, spurned the advances of Canadian post-secondary women’s teams to suit up for Grant MacEwan, a team featuring many players she had suited up with or against in the AJHL. “At the time, the Grant MacEwan coach was a coach I had played against for years, and the guys on the team, 90 per cent of them I had either played with or against in the AJHL, so it was just a natural fit for me,” she said. However, Szabados took the 2009/10 season off from the Griffins, ceasing to be “the girl” and becoming just another female hockey player while the Canadian National squad played together in preparation for the Olympics in February. “They’re two totally different games. The men’s game is fast, hardhitting, strong. The women’s game, physically we’re not as strong as the men so … the game is a little more tactical; you can’t just power through anyone. There has to be a bit of a game plan with women’s hockey. I like both, and it’s nice to get to go back and forth,” she explained. But while adjusting back into the women’s game was one obstacle for Szabados, the bigger two were fellow goalkeepers Kim St. Pierre and Charline Labonté, who had backstopped the Canadians to Olympic glory in 2002 and 2006, respectively. Szabados had joined the duo at the 2009 World Championships as a third goaltender, taking home a silver medal, but failing to crack the lineup and get a chance between the pipes. “For me being the youngest, I joined the team just after the last Olympics … so it’s hard to come in as a rookie and get some playing time when you already have two established goalies,” Szabados said. “This year, we had plenty of games. Between the three of us all year, we rotated, we split games, we all got equal playing time up to the Olympics and it really was like a tryout all year. I just knew every time I stepped on the ice I needed to prove myself, and in playing so many games, I got the chance to prove myself.” Szabados went 10–1 with a 1.99 goals against average and .936 save percentage in pre-tournament play, good enough to earn her a
24
I remember when I first signed in the Western League … people thought...’She’s a girl; she can’t play here,’ and then I played there and proved them wrong, and it never came up again
Shannon Szabadous
start in the preliminary round against Switzerland. She made 11 saves
season for the Griffins for the final time before her physical educa-
in a 10–1 thrashing of the Swiss and impressed enough to be named
tion/education combined degree forces her to transfer schools. But
Canada’s starter in the medal round, where she blanked the Finns in
Szabados isn’t sure if she’s ready for that either, noting that she’d still
the semifinals before making 28 saves to shutout the Americans in
like to keep playing with the men, and that might mean putting her
the gold-medal match.
education aside for the time being to play hockey.
“It was a lot of hard work to get there, and then, obviously, getting to play in that gold-medal game was an honour,” said Szabados, who was named the tournament’s top goaltender. “I was excited, but at the same time trying to calm myself down
“Right now, I’m going to stick with the men’s. It’s what’s gotten me where I am today,” she said. “I’ve had a lot of people tell me lately that I should go to Europe and play, and I would really love to—it’s something that I’m definitely
and prepare for the game and make sure I was in a good state of
going to look into this year for next year—but at the same time I have
mind going into it.”
my schooling to complete. So I have to figure out if I want to finish
With an Olympic gold medal to her credit, Szabados now pre-
my schooling first and then try that route.”
pares to return to the world of men’s hockey, suiting up this coming
25
the individual | Capitals Score Big With Lou Pote
Capitals Score Big
26
Capitals p
ig with Lou Pote
pitcher, Lou Pote
Story by Paul Owen
F
jewel
or most players who have captured a World
“We bought our first house, and the next year I go
Series ring, it becomes the defining piece of
to Japan. The whole purpose of buying the house and
lry of their baseball careers. For Edmonton
settling down there was I was going to be there for
Capitals pitcher Lou Pote, however, it’s his wedding
spring training every year. Then I go as far away from
band.
my house as you possibly can go for spring training,”
Pote pitched parts of five seasons as a reliever in the major league with the Anaheim Angels and Cleve-
he said, laughing. But while their first attempt to settle down may not
land Indians, capturing baseball’s biggest prize with
have worked, Pote is doing his best to make this sec-
the Angels in 2002. Despite a pedigree that could and
ond go-round work in Sherwood Park. He has spent the
has landed Pote jobs around the world, the 38-year-
past two summers pitching for the hometown Capitals
old who grew up in the suburbs of Chicago prefers
after spending 2008 in Taiwan, becoming the face of
now to stay close to the home he has established in
the franchise after the Edmonton Oilers bought the
Sherwood Park with his wife and their three young
former Edmonton Cracker-Cats and rebranded them.
boys, and that means pitching for the Capitals.
Pote started the first game in Capitals history in 2009
“It’s an easy decision: my kids get to come to the
and followed that up by starting the home opener for
field with me whenever they want or whenever I want
the team this season. He’s also relied upon heavily on
to bring them, my family gets to see me play everyday.
the field, leading the team in wins last season and the
I live here, and I get to come to the field and then go
Golden Baseball League in strikeouts for most of this
home and sleep in my own bed. It’s the perfect situa-
year.
tion for me,” Pote explained. Currently pitching his fifth season in Edmonton,
“It’s cool because when I was in the big leagues, it was all the big-name players (getting the attention), so
Pote first came to the city in 1999 to play for the
you kind of relate to them a little bit. But it’s something
Edmonton Trappers when they were the AAA affili-
that I enjoy doing—promoting the team—because it’s
ate of the Angels. Over the course of two seasons in
a great situation here,” he acknowledged.
1999–2000, Pote played in 48 games for the Trappers.
In that manner it’s a reciprocal relationship be-
More importantly, he also met his future wife, Erin.
tween team and player. Pote gets a local team to play
And while the family did move to the United States for
for so he can be with his family, and the Caps get a
a time when Pote became a big-league pitcher, when
local guy who has won a World Series to do promo-
that part of his career was over, they made the deci-
tional work.
sion to return to Edmonton to raise their children. “As soon as I kind of figured that my time was
With his career winding down, Pote’s decision to keep going is made easier by the fact that the Capitals
done with (the majors), we looked at our situation
keep asking him back every year, and he acknowledges
down there: I didn’t have any family, we’d just had
that, should there come a time when they no longer
kids, and we wanted them to be around family. It was
want him, it will probably be a sign that it is also time
an easy decision—once you get over that it’s going to
for him to hang up his cleats. However, much as the
be 50-below in the winter,” Pote said.
decision to move to Edmonton was made for his boys,
“I like it up here. I like the change of seasons, I like fishing, you can go skiing; all that stuff. It’s a good
the decision to retire will also involve them. “I understand that I only have maybe one or two
place to raise a family, good schools, healthcare, all
more years, or this could be it. I’ve been saying that for
that.”
the last four years, but it’s a family decision now,” Pote
Edmonton isn’t the first place the Potes have
admitted. “(My boys) will probably be more mad than
attempted to set down their roots. After pitching
I will. I won’t be mad, but they’ll probably be heartbro-
full seasons with the Angels in 2001 and 2002, they
ken.
bought a house in Phoenix in an attempt to be close
“I won’t play anywhere else. I’m here until (the
to the Angels’ spring training facility in Tempe, Ariz.
Capitals) either don’t want me or I decide my body
However, that off-season, the Angels declined to bring
can’t take it.”
Pote back, and he found himself headed half a world away to play for the Hanshin Tigers in Japan.
27
the community | Getting Connected While Staying Fit
Getting Connected While Staying Fit Story by Paula E. Kirman
N
ew mothers have a lot on their plate. Taking part in sport-
planning future events under the same banner. “This is a kickoff
ing events and fitness activities often take a back seat to
event,” she says. “It’s to let moms know it is out there. You can get
nighttime feedings, changing diapers, and fitting in a few minutes of
to compete with other moms in your moms’ group. Or, maybe you
sleep.
want to do a triathlon but it seems intimidating. Here, you compete
Christine Kasturi saw a need for new mothers to get out, network, and enjoy some friendly competition. Kasturi is the race director for IronMama, a 5 km run and walk that will take place on Sunday,
with other moms – other women functioning on four hours of sleep a night without a lot of time to train.” There are social benefits to IronMama, as well as physical. “You
Aug. 15 at Whitemud Park. The first ever IronMama event, Kasturi
can do it with your baby. Women on maternity leave may want a
developed the concept as part of her mission for nutrition – both for
social outlet to get out and get in shape while doing something for
babies and their mothers.
themselves.”
A mother herself of a two-year-old son, Kasturi has a background
Most of all, IronMama gives new moms a chance to try something
in nutrition. She has over 10 years of triathlon experience and
new, all while getting physical. “We cater to multisports. Often when
returned to racing this year. IronMama is a triathlon group for new
you have a baby you want to challenge yourself. Maybe a mom has
mothers, which is a branch of her main company NEWMama.
always been a runner, but wants to try a triathlon. This is certainly
“We do workshops for wellness and nutrition, triathlon camps –
different than a strollercize class!”
things that are geared towards new mothers and women who have
For more information on how to participate with IronMama,
had children but want something different from the ‘get your body
moms can email Kasturi directly at christine@newmama.ca. To
back’ kinds of classes out there,” Kasturi explains.
register for the 5 km run or walk, download the registration form on
Don’t let the name fool you – the 5 km IronMama run or walk is designed to be doable. “It targets moms who would like to bring their babies and run with their Chariots or baby joggers, or those
the NEWMama website, www.newmama.ca, and drop it off at the Running Room, or register online at www.runningroom.com. Check out the NEWMama website to watch for upcoming events
who just want to run by themselves. Women who have just had
throughout the year. In 2011 they will be offering triathlon camps,
babies and want to do something physical may just want to walk,”
group bike rides, as well as different charity events throughout the
Kasturi says.
year for different issues.
Participants in the IronMama will be raising funds for the organization Action Against Hunger Canada, a Canadian funded charity that takes part in relief efforts in the wake of earthquakes, floods, and other tragedies around the world, particularly in developing countries in Asia and Africa. “I wanted to keep my passion of maintaining a focus on nutrition,” Kasturi explains. “Action Against Hunger collects donations and sends Canadian volunteers across the globe to implement nutrition programs for babies. I really like that aspect of it because you often hear of relief efforts, but you don’t know where the money is actually going. In this case, they actually send Canadians to work directly in the places where they are needed.” Find out more about Action Against Hunger at www.actionagainsthunger. ca. IronMama became a reality earlier this year, just as spring was around the corner, and Kasturi is already
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the individual | A Deathly Race for a Lively Cause
A Deathly Race for a Lively Cause Story by Megan Sarrazin
P
utting yourself to the test—mind, body and spirit—in a race that
defies death and challenges endurance seems daunting to most, but for one woman, this thought is absolutely exhilarating. Although she has run the Canadian Death Race twice before, Kari Bowzaylo will be running it solo for the first time. “It’s not going to be an easy thing, but I’m so excited. I’m totally pumped and excited to do it,” said Bowzaylo, a personal trainer at Sturgeon Valley Athletic Club in
Kari Bowzaylo, Death Race 2009
St. Albert. The Canadian Death Races is a 125
trained six days a week with resistance
what was next and I felt like this was as good
training, cross training and by taking part in
three mountains and cover extreme terrain
as it gets, and I wasn’t happy and I just didn’t
other races and marathons, including the
in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, while
feel very good about myself. So it’s kind of
Death Race as part of a team. Despite this
feasting their eyes on breathtaking sights.
nice to come up and out of that and say, you
demanding schedule, she sees herself run-
know, I can do anything I put my mind to …
ning the race for years to come.
Although her career as a personal trainer could lead one to believe that running comes natural for her, she actually
perseverance can win,” she said. When her legs become tired, her breath-
“It’s definitely something I’m going to continue and definitely something that I
started the sport about eight years ago in
ing becomes strained and every step gets
want to encourage other people to do too,
attempts to lose weight. She managed to
harder and harder, Bowzaylo has a team of
because we have these beautiful mountains
lose 55 pounds.
people to think about to keep her motivated.
just out in our backyards and we don’t take
“It was really motivational and empow-
She has lost friends and clients her age
advantage of them,” said Bowzaylo. “Everybody’s out there for the same
ering because for quite a few years leading
to various cancers and will be thinking of
up to that, my self confidence had not
them when the going gets rough. One friend
reasons–to enjoy the surroundings, to be
been where it should … so it helped bring
had been diagnosed with cancer and said
challenged, pushing yourself mentally and
back that self confidence and empower
the one thing she regretted was not doing
physically to that next level, because if you
me and give me that sense of freedom,”
the Death Race. When her cancer went into
don’t have something driving you forward,
she said.
remission, she trained and completed the
you’re just existing,” she added.
Now, her running serves as more of a stress reliever and is her chance to escape
race, then passed away three months later.
Her love for running has now been
“I think at those tough points, I’ll be
passed down to her 14-year-old daughter
from the everyday hustle that comes with
thinking of those people and thinking of
and 12-year-old son, both who will be
raising a family.
how they’ll never get the chance to do these
competing in the Kids Death Race held on
things again. And I’m able to do this,” she
Sunday, Aug. 1. Bowzaylo will take off from
said.
the starting line of the race on Saturday, July
Although this race will push her to her limits, Bowzaylo sees it as a testament to all she has been through in her life.
30
“For many years of my life I didn’t know
km race that pushes athletes to summit
At the peak of her training, Bowzaylo
31 and finish a grueling 24 hours later on Aug. 1.
the community | Pitching In on the Fight Against Diabetes
Pitching In on the Fight Against Diabetes
Story by Paula E. Kirman
M
ore than three million Canadians currently have diabetes. Another 1.2 million Canadians are expected to be diag-
nosed with diabetes over the next decade. Odds have it, you either have diabetes, are related to someone with it, or at the very least know someone afflicted with the disease – or you will in the near future. “More than 20 people are diagnosed with the disease every hour of every day. Nearly one in four Canadians either has diabetes or prediabetes,” says Katie McLaughlin, marketing and communications coordinator with the Canadian Diabetes Association (Alberta and NWT). “The cost of diabetes in Canada is approximately $12.2 billion, which is an increase of $5.9 billion or nearly double its level in 2000. The cost of the disease is expected to rise by another $4.7 billion by 2020.” The Canadian Diabetes Association is working to fight against diabetes in two ways: one way is by helping people with diabetes live healthy lives, and the other way is by trying to find a cure. It is able to do these things by providing proper services for people with diabetes, educating health care professionals, advocating on behalf of people with diabetes, supporting research, and translating that research into practical ways. However, the association cannot do what it does without the help of donations and volunteers. McLaughlin stresses that support, both financial and from volunteers, is needed. “Funds and volunteers are needed to make this a reality, whether it be dollars, time, and/or influence – everything helps us deliver on our mission,” she explains. “Research is extremely important in leading the fight against diabetes, and this years’ goal had to be decreased due to a shortage of funding. Further, funding and volunteer help are both essential
32
in taking this research, making it applicable, and delivering it to those living with disease.” One of the ways the association is raising awareness of what it does, is through Diabetes in the Park. Taking place at Telus Field on Friday, Aug. 20, McLaughlin encourages baseball fans to come to the game wearing red to show their support from the stands. “Bring articles of clothing in support of our Clothesline Program and place them in the bins out front prior to the game,” she adds; “while at the game take the time to learn as much as you can about diabetes and the Canadian Diabetes Association. Last but not least, purchase a 50/50 ticket as proceeds will go to support our many programs, services, and research efforts!” “We’re looking forward to a great evening with our volunteers and supporters who are helping us raise awareness about diabetes in our community,” says Murray Davison, regional director, Northern Alberta/NWT. “We invite people of all ages to come out and have a ball. This is a great way to spend time with family and friends on a Friday evening, cheering on the Edmonton Capitals and supporting a great cause.” For more information about the Canadian Diabetes Association and Diabetes in the Park, call (780) 423-1232. To visit the association’s website, go to www.diabetes.ca.
the community | “We’ll Show You Ours” Fringe Festival
“OURS
WE’LL SHOW YOU
“
FRINGE FESTIVAL
Story by Sarah Kmiech
S
omething wicked this way comes! No, not wicked evil, wicked fantastic! It seems as though as soon as spring gives way to
the first glimpse of summer, people are already talking about and getting excited for one of Edmonton’s most amazing and unique festivals. The 29th Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival is gearing up to entertain and entice every attendee. 170 different shows, with 1,500 performances put on by performers ranging from local to international talents, and boasting 39 separate venues, there is bound to be something for every person to love. But enough with the numbers! There’s no need to fill up the mind with that kind of stuff. Well, maybe just a couple more, then that’s it. The 11 day Fringe Festival starts on Thursday, Aug. 12 and finishes up on Sunday, Aug. 22. Ok, done. There are a couple different types of performance venues the Fringe has to offer. There are the regular indoor plays put on by the Fringe, and there is also BYOV, which stands for “Bring Your Own Venue.” Here, the artists produce their own shows throughout different venues in Edmonton. Bars and pubs, schools and retail stores, even churches, open up their doors to welcome the variety of entertaining shows. These shows, as always, cover a vast range of interesting topics and themes. Interested in seeing what it takes for a couple of singing girls to get going on their European adventure? Then go and see Europe, A Savvy Girl’s Guide: The Musical. Want to see how the world would defend itself against zombies? Then you should probably check out Famished, The Musical. Looking for a more solemn theatre experience? Shimmer follows a man reflecting on his unforgiving group home life.
34
The show genres cover everything from drama, cabaret, musicals, storytelling, sketch comedy and satire, to activism and conversational forum. There is even one play, The Duck Wife, as having the described genre as “a dance rock opera.” The Fringe more than safely covers its bases to fulfill what every person will be jonesing for. The KidsFringe site is an area which allows the little ones to enjoy the Fringe at a kids’ level. Here, they are able to
dress up and
take part in interactive plays, create various arts and crafts, and listen to stories being told in the Storytelling Tent. All children are to be accompanied by an adult. And all over Old Strathcona are the vendor and food tents which give Fringe goers a place to hangout before or after their show starts. Shop around for some fun jewelry and clothing, get good and sticky with some mini donuts and an elephant ear, and strike a pose for one of those classically cheesy cartoon portraits! And of course, let’s not forget a visit to the beer gardens. The outdoor street performances start up on Friday, Aug. 13 and go on until the festival’s final day. Hula hoopers, magicians, jugglers, musicians and various carnival acts are set out to entertain you throughout your festival experience. There are so many festivals that happen in our city to light-up Edmonton, and the Fringe is one that most definitely helps put us on the map as Canada’s Festival City!
35
One Festival the community | Article title goes here
for All Folk Story by Sarah Kmiech Photos by Edmonton Folk Music Festival
D
o you hear that? That’s the sound of 64 artists singing. Do
“You see people in Harley Davidson jackets to granola moms with
you see that? That’s the sight of 11,000 people becoming
their patched up cord pants,” Riedel said. “It’s very diversified at Folk
one, all for the love of music. Do you feel that? That’s what it feels
Fest.”
like when all of these things come together in perfect harmony. For
With so many years of experience, the festival has become a
five days, Edmonton’s downtown Gallagher Park is transformed into
well-oiled machine, and does whatever it can to make attendees feel
one huge stage where artists are able to share their talents, and
as comfortable as possible.
people are able to celebrate and enjoy them.
There are free water stations throughout the venue for people to
Since its beginning in 1980, the Edmonton Folk Music Festival
fill up their travel cups. Pocket ashtrays are handed out so cigarette
has been commemorating the true feeling of what folk music is all
butts are kept from being flicked on the ground. When buying food,
about, and that’s the traditional togetherness that is felt when people
reusable dishes are given a $2 plate fee, but that is refunded when
gather to share stories and feelings through song.
the plate is brought back. Even the placements of the toilets are
This year will be the sixth year volunteer Corinne Riedel will be offering up her time to the festival. She loves how it gives people a
done in an efficient manner. The festival has completely sold out of tickets, and in record time.
place to relax and enjoy the different musical flavours from around
But with big names such as Van Morrison, Ben Harper, Gord Downie,
the world.
and Jakob Dylan, it’s easy to see how that was going to happen.
“People coming off a busy spring and summer have a moment
There is no on-site parking during the festival, so using the Park
to chill out,” Riedel said. “It’s really easy to unwind, and by day four,
& Ride system or Edmonton Transit is highly recommended. To find
it’s a total daze; and it’s great seeing family and friends have good,
information on this, visit www.edmonton.ca and look under Transpor-
wholesome fun together.”
tation. A bike lock up area is provided and will be available Thursday
These families and friends come from all different genres of musical tastes. People who take pleasure in blues are there, as are people who love bluegrass, and even gospel. This festival does its best to tap into everyone’s musical interests.
until Sunday one hour before the gates open until 45 minutes after the gates close. The Edmonton Folk Music Festival begins Wednesday, Aug. 4 with Van Morrison playing the special endowment fund concert, and will finish up on Sunday, Aug. 8. For more information on the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, visit www.edmontonfolkfest.org.
36
Some FolkFest Fans!
Veronica Lozo
Tim Sloan
Age: 30 Occupation: Project manager
Age: 36
How many years she’s attended: This is her second year attending, but living right on Strathern has allowed
Occupation: Works for a web design company.
How many years he’s attended: This will be his sixth year. Who and what he’s looking forward to: “Van Morrison and
her to be able to listen to the festival for four years. “I was
Gord Downie, and hopefully it’s good weather. I’ve been rained
washing my dishes once and was like, ‘Oh my gosh! Chris
on a few times, but nothing really bad.”
Issak is singing Wicked Games in my backyard!’ It was fantastic!” Who she’s looking forward to: Gord Downie, Ben Harper, Jakob Dylan and Van Morrison. Favorite memory: “I actually have two. The first one
What he likes best about it: “I like the workshops a lot!” FYI, the workshops to Sloan actually mean the beer gardens, or to some, they are jokingly referred to as Stage 8. Favorite memory: “That’s tough, that’s really tough. It’s really about the music, but my favorite would be running into friends
was getting into the corral … it’s all fenced in and people
I know on the hill; people who I didn’t know were going to
are just walking around because at any moment at 7 a.m.
be there are suddenly
they’re going to open a little section which determines
there.”
what rank you’re in to lay down your tarp, it’s really exciting!” Favorite memory number two: “My girlfriends and I were laying down on our tarp, fifth row from the front stage, and they had this big stereo speaker. We were lying there, and there was some Caribbean music, and we were just lying on the tarp feeling the bass and there were all these twinkling lights. We looked around us and there were 11,000 people with candles, all sitting on the hill, and it was just so magical and alive. It was awesome!”
37
速 TM Trademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V Used under license by LoyaltyOne, Inc. and AutoCanada Inc.
the community | Bending Over Backwards for Fitness
Bending Over Backwards for Fitness Story by Megan Sarrazin
G
ymnastics runs in the veins of a local club dedicated to providing all age levels—from the wee ages of six months,
to mature adults and everything in between with fun fitness and a
recreational circuit, however,
variety of experiences.
they do have a developed
Salto Gymnastics is a non-profit organization that was started by a group of parents 30 years ago, and has been operating ever since in Sherwood Park. Their 10,000 square foot facility is rare for it’s kind, because it
competitive program that has over 40 participants. “You can train 100 kids and maybe one of
incorporates a less mechanical feel by having natural landscape in
them will actually get to
the heart of the community instead of being forced into more indus-
a provincial or national
trial areas, said Leah Sieben, head of recreation programming at the
level because the nature of
gymnastics club.
gymnastics is so demand-
The club provides all ages, fitness levels and skill levels with the tools they need to succeed, whether they are participating for recreational fun or the competitive circuit. The recreational programming begins as young as six months with
ing,” said Sieben. The competitive programming can begin as early as four years of age in the Headstart
the Crawling Caterpillar class, which also acts as a social opportunity
program where children will train four
for the moms, according to Sieben. There are over 1,000 people
hours a week as opposed to one hour in
participating in the recreational programs at the club.
the recreational stream. By age 10, these kids
Salto Gymnastics also offers a program for kids with special abilities, called SuperCalifragymnastics, which operates on Sunday’s. Sieben is hoping more children take part in it, as it is an “underutilized” program at the club.
40
Majority of their programming is directed towards the
could be training up to 20 hours a week. An exciting aspect for Sieben is the gymnastic clubs “fantastic” birthday party program, which offers a two-hour timeslot
will take a coach and the equipment and drive out to the school, set up the equipment in their gym and run classes throughout their day to play, eat and celebrate a birthday. They usually have about 10 birthdays each weekend. “Our whole gym is filled with colourful mats, foam pieces, small pieces of equipment that the kids can crawl over, climb over, tunnels to
on the schools schedule,” said Sieben. This is something Sieben believes will take off, especially in the rural areas around Strathcona County, where they will likely focus their business. The gym operates on a seasonal basis, with various programs happening each session. A cost for 10 weeks is about $120 with the
climb through, that sort of thing,” said Sieben.
annual membership fee being $25 for the entire year, said Sieben.
Coming this fall, the club will be also be marketing
The membership to the Alberta Gymnastics Federation will offer
their new satellite program, which will bring the gym to the people rather than people coming to the gym. “We’ve actually put together a mobile gymnastics program that we’re going to start to market to the schools in September, and we
parents priority when registering for the next season’s session. Salto Gymnastics is still accepting intake into their daily summer camp classes. To learn more, you can check them out on www. saltogymnastics.com.
41
mergemag.ca | Event Calendar
Events Calendar August
We’re always on the lookout for upcoming social, fundraising and business-related events in and around Edmonton. • Arts & Cultural Events • Fundraising for Charity or Community Groups • Business Seminars and Workshops
Social Events Aug
4
Battle of the Bands 8:00PM Enmax Hall, Winspear Centre Tickets start at $70
It’s a battle of the bands! Glenn Miller Orchestra vs Harry James Orchestra. Tickets start at $70. For more information visit http://www. winspearcentre.com/all-events/2010-11-events/battle-of-the-bands/
Aug
5
Edmonton Folk Music Festival Runs August 5-8 Gallagher Park, 9411 94th Ave.
The global stars of blues, Celtic, bluegrass, gospel and world music come together for four blissful days at this open-air festival, where a hillside serves as a natural amphitheatre. Edmonton Folk Music Festival, staged in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada in beautiful downtown Gallagher Park, happens each year in the second weekend in August. For more information, visit http://edmontonfolkfest.org/
Aug
8
Art Activities for All Ages HSBC All Day Sundays 12:00AM- 4:00PM Art Gallery of Alberta Free with admission
Art activities for all ages at the Art Gallery of Alberta on the Second Sunday of every month. This month: “Through the Looking Glass”.
44
Aug
11
Cirque du Soleil: Alegria Runs August 11-22 Rexall Place Tickets start at $40 for adults, $32 for children 12 and under.
Alegría is a Cirque du Soleil classic and an internationally acclaimed production that has entertained more than 10 million people worldwide since its world premiere in Montreal in 1994. In May 2009, Alegría embarked on a new journey, performing the same mesmerizing production, but now in arenas in North America, giving more people the opportunity to enjoy a Cirque du Soleil show in their own town. Acts include the Synchro Trapeze and the intense and high-energy Aerial High Bars. In Russian Bars, artists fly through the air and perform spectacular somersaults and mid-air turns, landing on bars perched on the sturdy shoulders of catchers. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/alegria
Aug
12
Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival Runs August 12-22 Old Strathcona Area
More than 170 productions by local, national, international, Theatre for Young Audiences, and independent companies stage some of the world’s best shows in 39 venues throughout Old Strathcona and beyond. Zany performances, colourful crafts, sensational storytelling and awesome activities makes the KidFringe site a pint-sized festival within a festival. In addition to 200 spectacular scheduled performances on two outdoor stages, more than 50 busking acts bring the circus to Old Strathcona’s streets. Sweets and savouries from 40 food vendors, along with handmade jewelry, art, clothing and crafts satisfy gourmets, gourmands and shopaholics alike. For more information, visit http://www.fringetheatre.ca/festival.php
Aug June
14
Celtic Festival Gates open at 10:00AM, entertainment begins at 11:00AM Hawrelak Park Amphitheatre Advance tickets are $35 each or 4 for $100, $40 at the gate
A day of Celtic singing, dancing, and festivities! The 3rd Annual Celtic Festival features the sounds of the Edmonton & District Pipe Band, traditional Irish dancing from the Mattierin Dance Troop and many others. Tickets available at Ticketmaster and Scottish Imports, located at 10630 124th St., Edmonton (780-433-6889). For more information, visit www. celticfestivaledmonton.com or contact Michael Purcell at 780-700-8782.
Aug
14
Edmonton Latin Festival
19
Behind the Scenes at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald 6:00AM- 11:00PM
Celebrate the city’s hottest month with a Behind the Scenes summer patio event at The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald. Join fellow young professionals (ages 18-40) and discover the building’s history and architecture, combined with a summer patio party with DJs, drinks and more overlooking the city’s river valley. It’ll be an artsScene Behind the Scenes event like no other! For more information, or for tickets, visit http://www. artssceneedmonton.com/
June Aug
20
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Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival Runs August 20-22 Louise McKinney Riverfront Park
The Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival Association is a non-profit organization which promotes Dragon Boat racing and its multicultural celebration in the City of Edmonton. The objective is to promote Dragon Boat racing for fun, sport and recreation; to showcase Asian culture and promote multiculturalism. Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival will be celebrating its 14th season as Alberta’s Largest Festival & Competition Event. The “Go Green Theme” will showcase many environmentally friendly products, ideas & habits. For more information, visit http://www.edmontondragonboatfestival.com/
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11:00AM to 11:00PM Tickets $29.50 Hawrelak Park Amphitheatre
Seven Strings Music Entertainment is proud to announce its first annual Open Sky Music Festival—a full day, all-ages event featuring nine of western Canada’s best reggae, acoustic, island and surf rock acts. Headliners Mobadass and Current Swell will be joined by local and national talent, including Jeff Morris, Souljah Fyah, Goodbye Beatdown, Makeshift Innocence, Cops + Robbers, Dani Jean, The Soulicitors and Kalai. Visit http://bit.ly/bv5qYG for more information.
Fundraising Events Aug
3
Edmonton’s Labatt Blues Festival Runs August 20-22 Hawrelak Park Amphitheatre
This festival always has been and always will be dedicated to “Blues and Nothin’ but the Blues.” The event was dubbed “Western Canada’s Premiere Blues Event” after only 2 seasons. Jimmie Vaughan, Rod Piazza and the Mighty Flyers, MonkeyJunk, Candye Kane, Henry Gray and the Cats, The Twisters and The Curtis Salgado Big Band will be playing, plus many more. For more information, visit http://www.bluesinternationalltd.com/
Rock’n August Runs August 3-7 Various St. Albert, AB locations
Five days of activities begin early Tuesday morning with a pancake breakfast at the St. Albert Inn (156th St. Albert Rd) at 7 a.m. Many of the classic cars that will be competing in Saturday’s Show’n Shine competition will be at this breakfast. Each evening until Friday Night’s Cruise and Street Dance, a different location in St. Albert hosts an evening of car displays, community barbecues and musical entertainment. This event is in support of Diabetes Research and Education. For more information, visit http://www.rocknaugust.com/index.html
Aug
7
Weekend to End Women’s Cancers Runs August 7-8
During one amazing weekend, thousands will join together to walk in the battle against all women’s cancers. Your support will fund the critical work of Alberta Cancer Foundation and their efforts to end breast and gynecologic cancers, diseases that one in seven Canadian women will be diagnosed with in her lifetime. You can help impact the lives of thousands throughout Edmonton and across Canada. For more information, or to register, visit http://ed10.endcancer.ca/ or call 1-877-394-9255.
Aug
Aug
Open Sky Music Festival
Runs August 14 & 15, 11:00AM to 7:00PM Sir Winston Churchill Square
The First Annual Edmonton Latin Festival is a free, 2 day family outdoor event. Edmonton is known for embracing multiculturalism and was named Culture Capital in 2007. Share the beauty of Latin heritage and experience the tastes, sites and sounds of hispanic culture. Dance, sing, eat and learn about the diverse communities that make up the Vibrant Latin Community. For more information, visit http://www.edmontonlatinfestival.com/
Aug June
Aug
15
IronMama Race Race starts at 9:00AM Whitemud Park, 13204 Fox Drive Entry fee is $50
IronMama 5k run and walk is a fundraiser event with proceeds going to Action Against Hunger Canada, a Canadian organization that sends volunteers to Uganda, Africa and Asia to implement nutrition programs for babies. IronMama is a group for moms at any stage of motherhood wanting to achieve their personal and physical best. For more information on IronMama and this event, visit http://www.newmama.ca/ironmamatm.html. To register in person visit any Running Room location, or online at http://www.runningroom.com/
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mergemag.ca | Event Calendar Aug
20
Hoedown for the House 5:00PM to 10:00PM Blatchford Field Air Hangar, Fort Edmonton Park
Come out and support Ronald McDonald House Northern Alberta at Fort Edmonton Park. This event will be all about family fun and celebrating 25 years of history that have been dedicated to caring for families of children with serious illnesses. The Blatchford Field Air Hanger and surroundings will be transformed to set the stage for an afternoon and evening of festivities. It is all about having fun with family activities such as face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides, bouncy jumpers, game zone and outdoor games at the picnic field. A dinner, dance and entertainment will conclude this day of celebration.To purchase tickets, or for more informaion, visit http://www.rmhedmonton.ca/ or email Wendy Dugas at wendy@rmhnorthernalberta.org.
Aug
20
Diabetes Day in the Park 7:00PM Telus Field
The Canadian Diabetes Association will host ‘Diabetes Day in the Park’ along with the Edmonton Capitals as they take on the Calgary Vipers. This event offers a unique opportunity to raise awareness of what this organization is all about, as well as share the need for funds that will allow the Canadian Diabetes Association to continue its fight against diabetes, all in an entertaining and memorable environment. They will be gathering reusable clothing at this event with their clothesline donation boxes. For more information on this event, visit http://bit.ly/akgRmf. To purchase tickets, visit http://bit.ly/aQfKER
Aug
25
Kevin Karius Easter Seals Celebrity Golf Classic
Aug
6
Training and Networking Event - Health & Travel 7:00AM - 8:30AM World Trade Centre, 9990 Jasper Ave., 6th floor $5 for members, $10 for non-members
As international travel ebbs its way into peoples’ lives in the name of business, relaxation, adventure, education, humanitarian efforts, and connecting with family and friends, it’s important to see some of the beauty as well as the challenges. With a little knowledge and a little understanding about the potential travel health issues abroad, we are better equipped to manage those challenges. Speaker: Tanja Puchala, with Atlas Immunization Services. To register, visit http://www.edmontonchamber.com/connections4business.aspx. This meeting is put on by Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, an organization which gives a voice to business in the Edmonton area.
Aug
11
How to Leverage Traditional & Social Media Registration and breaskfast at 7:45AM, Events runs 8:30AM to 11:30AM Chateau Louis Conference Centre, 11727 Kingsway Registration $119 for members, $139 for non-members
Speaker: Shawne Duperon. Over the last 20 years, Five-Time EMMY® award winner Shawne Duperon has interviewed presidents, celebrities and sports stars. This former ABC and NBC reporter has trained thousands across North America how to leverage traditional and social media and ultimately be exquisite in any interview. The event is put on by the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers.
7:30AM Belvedere Golf & Country Club, Hwy 21 Sherwood Park
This annual golf tournament, hosted by Kevin Karius of Global TV Sports, attracts 160 golfers every year, including players from the Edmonton Oilers and Eskimos Alumni, along with local media personalities and politicians. Golfers team up with sports and media celebrities to play golf, enjoy a buffet breakfast, BBQ dinner, and great give-a-ways and prizes. Money raised from this event helps Easter Seals. Registration is $250. Raise a minimum of $800 in online pledges, and your registration fee will be waived. For more information, or to register, visit http://www. easterseals.ab.ca/events/detail.php?id=28
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Business Events
Aug
18
Manuscripts Made Easy with Debbie Elicksen 7:00 PM Safety Ahead Ltd. office (Centre 39 Building), #205-9131 39th Ave Tickets $15
Have an idea for a book, but don’t know how to get started? Learn how to outline your material, define the research, put the project in action, and break the manuscript down into manageable pieces and sections for paragraph and chapter development. Debbie Elicksen is a communications and Canada’s Publishing expert. She has authored nine books and has edited, ghosted, and project managed over 100 books. The event is put on by the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers.