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Volume10 10••Issue Issue21 Volume January March -- February April 20202020
CONNECTING CONNECTING
LETHBRIDGE LETHBRIDGE
CASA VERDE PROJECT The Future is Green
PADDLING PARADISE Broughton Archipelago
LIVE WELL SHOWCASE LSCO
MAGICAL, MYSTICAL SPAIN
P. 20
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A group of local kayakers share their adventure paddling the Broughton Archipelago
in BC
Falling in Love with Southern Spain
Perry Mirkovitch shares his story and stunning photographs from his recent trip to Southern Spain
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The Casa Verde Project
32
Do I have too much debt?
36
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Kayaking with the Whales
It’s been a year since the Regers moved into their new net zero home. We follow them to see how they are settling in and what new additions they have in store
Some signs to watch for with your personal finances
LSCO Live Well Showcase
LSCO hosts its eighth annual Live Well Showcase
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20
32
20
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From The Publisher As we head into daylight savings time, it seems Winter has spared us for the most part this year Jean Van Kleek Photo: Thomas Porter (except for those -40 days we don’t like to mention!) . Despite the weather (good or bad) people in Southern Alberta are always doing interesting things. This edition of Quirk we have two stories of adventure to share with you. Braum Barbers tells us about his trip with a group of local kayakers who paddled with the whales on the Broughton Archipelago, BC. Braum paints a wonderful picture of the area and its breathtaking natural beauty. Perry Mirkovich takes us to Southern Spain where the culture is rich and love is in the air. Perry often shares his travelogues with us, and we enjoy his passion along with his great photography as he travels the globe. This issue we also caught up with the Reger family to get up to date on their net zero home. The technology is fascinating and this home is an architectural dream that in the not too distant future will be a completely off-grid home. We hope you enjoy this issue of Quirk as much as we enjoy bringing it to you! We’d like thank the local advertisers who support the magazine. They are the reason we are able to share your stories and create community.
Volume 10 • Issue 2 • March - April 2020
www.quirkmagazine.net ISSN 1929-2112
Published bi-monthly in Lethbridge by
SHABELLA PUBLISHING
807 8th Ave. S Lethbridge T1J 1P1 403.382.7240 Printed by Warwick Printing Lethbridge, AB. Publisher Jean Van Kleek info@quirkmagazine.net Design & Layout UniVerse Graphics Writers Ginger Malacko Georgie Erickson Perry Mirkovitch Braum Barbers Michelle Zandstra Jean Van Kleek Photographers Braum Barbers Perry Mirkovitch Bryce Baker Cover Photo Perry Mirkovitch Proofreading Cindy McInnes General Inquiries info@quirkmagazine.net Advertising Inquiries info@quirkmagazine.net 403.382.7240 LEGAL INFORMATION All information provided in this magazine is accurate and correct to the best of the knowledge of Quirk Magazine and Shabella Publishing, and current at the time of publishing. Quirk Magazine and Shabella Publishing are not responsible and will not be liable for damages whatsoever arising out of or in connection with the use of the information contained herein, or through any unauthorized use or reproduction of such information, even if the publication has been advertised of the possibility of these damages. The information in this magazine applies to Canada only and may not be appropriate or correct outside of Canada. The magazine is not responsible in any way for the content provided by contributing writers and/or advertisers or other third parties who advertise or provide content for this magazine. Unless indicated otherwise, all opinions, advice, information and resources offered or made available in this magazine are solely those of third parties who advertise or provide content for this magazine. This magazine and its content do not necessarily reflect the views of Shabella Publishing or its employees. No endorsement or approval of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services, including those available or offered through this magazine or any websites, is expressed or implied by Shabella Publishing or any related company or its officers and directors. Links to websites of third parties are meant for convenience only. The publisher does not review, endorse, approve or control and is not responsible for any such websites.
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EACH
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The Style of Being
Restaurant Guide
Lessons I’ve Learned from my Dogs/Dog Recipe
Adorable Adoptables
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by Ginger Malacko
Liberty is mobility. It’s the exquisite power of moving oneself to a different place – of pedalling your own bike. In all my days as an adventurer, it was never merely the exploration of the unknown that thrilled me – it was my own ability to tackle that unknown.
LIBERTY
Call me an Urban Explorer. It’s a title I’ve clearly earned, at least in my own mind. Give me an unfamiliar city street packed with half hidden shops and dead-end alleyways and I’ll practically make it my new home – and write the travel guide. I’ve wandered a few major metropolises in my time and it felt like I was conquering the great cities of the world one by one…until that one day when it didn’t. A black day indeed. It was a fateful excursion into Europe I took with my Mother a few years back. I was surrounded by the unknown, which ought to have thrilled me. Instead I found myself hobbled by my stubborn refusal to learn even a lick of French (for which I blame my intolerant Scotch Grandfather). I knew from that first day, as I became devastatingly dependent upon my Mom to act as interpreter, that liberty isn’t freedom to do whatever you want. It’s the ability to do whatever you can. And the more you can do, the more free you are. One of my cherished possessions is this little beauty of a bicycle which has become a personal symbol for the goal I’ve made to travel through life as much as I can on my own steam. His name is “Liberty”, of course. And he’s powered
by me. It’s the knowledge, skill and flexibility we gather in life that makes us capable of stepping away from familiar paths. And it is the lack of these precious commodities that keeps us the most inescapably bound. It was my dismissal of a skill I most likely needed that left me shuffling after someone else through France and Switzerland rather than blazing my own trail. I never again want to feel as helpless as I did trying to communicate to the scowling natives with hand gestures, knowing it was my own fault. I had chosen that limitation.
As tempting as it may be to hope a powerful someone will reach down and pull us along, that’s just a form of servitude. Liberty is mobility. It’s the exquisite power of moving oneself to a different place – of pedalling your own bike. In all my days as an adventurer, it was never merely the exploration of the unknown that thrilled me – it was my own ability to tackle that unknown. It was the power to do. The power of my amassed capabilities. Liberty isn’t always won by armies and candidates – it’s most often something you win for yourself.
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Kayaking with the Whales Broughton Archipelago, BC
Writer/Photographer: Braum Barbers
photo by Sarah Hausers Day one Foggy morning
“The cure for anything is saltwater – sweat, tears, or the sea.” Isak Dinesen
To make a day of it, we start early. A thin fog sits on the water as we load our kayaks onto a sea taxi to bring us to our furthest point. We have six days to paddle back.
“We could barely talk about it the next morning: it was as though it had not been real, that we had had a mystical experience.” Quirk - 12
The weather is fine as we unload our equipment – the kayaks, paddles, tents, food, and clothes suitable for any type of weather. We are limited to about 20 liters: a total volume that includes our sleeping bags, tent, clothes. Personal luxuries might include a pillow, an extra-comfortable sweater or a beer to look forward to at the end of the day. But these luxuries may come at a cost, like not bringing an extra pair of dry socks. Once we have secured the kayaks and haul the food, fresh water, and cooking equipment to be organized into each boat, we can set up our first camp. The island we are staying on is beautiful. Towering hemlock, Sitka spruce and red cedar have amply littered the ground into a soft spongy mass, perfect for a tent and thin mattress. The islands, however, abhor level ground. You have the choice of finding yourself piled up at one end of the tent by the end of the night, or awkwardly bent in the middle, hanging over a tree root like drying laundry.
There are nine of us in the group organized by High Level Canoes & Kayaks in Lethbridge, and we have two expert guides who have organized the food and equipment, and who will try to keep us safe from changeable tides, an inclement sea, and the wildlife. Most of us are
Enjoying the open ocean view
“The next morning was calm - the sort of calm you might never see on a lake in southern Alberta. And it was beautiful to paddle on.” paddling in a tandem kayak, which offers the person paddling at the back the opportunity to slack off or take photos without the person in the front realizing, as they paddle madly to keep up with the group.
On the afternoon of our first day we paddle to a nearby island for lunch and an opportunity to explore an ancient midden comprised mainly of shells accumulated over centuries by the local inhabitants. Many of the cedars indicate having been stripped at one time for use in traditional manufactures. As we eat our lunch, we see our first wildlife as a group of harbor porpoises swim by. Later, after circumnavigating the island, we see a large black bear near the beach where we had eaten. We were pleased that it had not been our first wildlife sighting.
memorable experiences of our lives. No, not a level spot for a tent. It was much bigger than that. Whales.
All of us were hoping to see whales. As we approached the island, we saw our first humpback whale in the distance. When we landed on the island, we saw another in the distance. We abandoned our routine to find our best vantage point. Then we saw another. Then another. Large flocks of gulls and a few bald eagles would swarm above the location where a whale would surface, hoping to pick up a fish leftover by the whale. White Cliff Island, whales on all sides
With the exercise and the smell of the sea, one works up a good appetite. The meals planned by our guides were, quite simply, delicious. And after cleaning up and securing the food, and as the sun left us to complete darkness, we felt our way back to our tents. We chose the double-back bend with a slight uphill twist for our first night’s posture.
The next morning was calm - the sort of calm you might never see on a lake in southern Alberta. And it was beautiful to paddle on. The morning fog was lifting as we finished packing the kayaks for the first time, which takes a while as we learn how to exploit the limited space. Paddle for an hour. Pee break. Paddle for a couple of hours. Lunch. Paddle for a few hours. Find safe harbour. Unload boats. Secure boats. Set up camp. Eat. Secure food. Imbibe in a luxury item. Sleep – this time, a downward dog position. The water is glorious and the sky is dazzling as we paddle around a series of small islands and through canopies of kelp forests. We end another day on a small rock island where we will have one of the most
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“The slapping of their massive fins on the surface sounded like fireworks. Perhaps, it was because we could see nothing that this performance was so stunning. Breathtaking.” Reluctantly we got back to the business of setting up camp and having our meal. As we ate, the humpback whales ate, and as we ate, the setting sun warmed the island. We glowed. And then came the Orcas. First a small pod surfaced along the trail of sun in the water. Another pod joined them and at any one time, there were as many as seven fins breaking the surface.
Humpback whale seen from the kayak
But that wasn’t the most memorable thing. Sure, it was amazing, but what followed was even more so. After the sun had set, we crawled into our tents. A crash woke us and we emerged to a blackness so total that, if not for the Milky Way dripping from above, one wouldn’t know which way was up. The whales were breaching and the night was surrounded by haunting whale vocalizations. The slapping of their massive fins on the surface sounded like fireworks. Perhaps, it was because we could see nothing that this performance was so stunning. Breathtaking. We could barely talk about it the next morning: it was as though it had not been real, that we had had a mystical experience.
The whales were active the next day, but this time we were in the water with them – which is a whole different feeling. Humpbacks do not navigate with sonar. They are as large as a school bus and have developed the attitude that they can surface wherever they like. Even if you happen to be occupying the same space of water. We spent a couple of more days paddling in the area, enjoying the perfect weather, the scenery, and abundant wildlife. photo by Sarah Hausers Quirk - 14
“A small island near our campsite was covered in sea lions making a constant ruckus. We were happy when high tide came that night and covered the island so we could have a few hours of uninterrupted sleep.”
One evening we were serenaded by what sounded like the monster in the television show Lost. A small island near our campsite was covered in sea lions making a constant ruckus. We were happy when high tide came that night and covered the island so we could have a few hours of uninterrupted sleep.
On our final day, we had to cross a strait that served as a major route for cruise ships and sailing vessels. It was very foggy, so we had to keep a tight formation with the hope that a large ship would see our group on the radar. Our guides had done their best to determine the best time to begin the crossing based on their communications with others in the area. During the hour-long paddle, as we were intensely listening and watching for ships, a humpback whale emerged close behind us holding its massive tail in the air before disappearing again below the surface. A bus with fins.
We believe what Isak Dinesen believed: that ‘the cure for anything is salt water’. We sweated as we paddled dozens of kilometers over six days, and there were more than a few discrete tears as we heard whaleplay. And then there was the sea.
Sea Lion Colony
photo by Sarah Hausers
Staging it Right with Stage Right By: Gina Huppee Photo by: Bryce Baker (Greener Homes)
You may have heard of home staging if you’ve spent any time watching HGTV, but it’s definitely not a term that’s used in most of our everyday language. What is it? Why do people do it? Is this a thing in Lethbridge? The short answer is, YES, staging is definitely a thing in Lethbridge!
Home Staging is the preparation of a home for sale. The goal of home staging is to make a home appealing to the highest number of potential buyers, thereby selling a property more swiftly and potentially for more money. It’s a highly effective strategy in marketing a home because it emphasizes a property’s strengths and minimizes any weaknesses; allowing the home to be shown at its maximum potential.
The internet has changed the way we buy and sell homes. Buyers start their search on line, which makes it absolutely necessary to make a fabulous first impression. Trying to capture every aspect of a room is virtually impossible to do in a photograph. We live in these spaces, and oftentimes daily living isn’t pretty. When you enlist the help of a Professional Home Stager, they can guide you in preparing each space for maximum effect in photos and in-person viewings. Enter: Stage Right
The ‘go-to’ home staging company in Lethbridge is Stage Right. Stage Right has been operating in Lethbridge for over 10 years. Stage Right Stylists know exactly how to prepare your home for sale; they have a passion for creating stunning homes that will help you attract more buyers and outshine the competition.
Stage Right has THREE key services that help you in preparing your home to sell.
A Pre-lisitng Consultation is the best way to get started with a Stage Right Stylist. It’s important to know, the way you live is not the way you sell. A home staging consultation takes the guess work out of preparing your home for sale. They will work with you, hands-on with your existing belongings, re-arranging and removing items to ensure each room is well prepared and photo ready. They will leave you with a detailed ‘to do’ list outlining repairs, furniture layout, paint colours, lighting updates and more. These things increase the salability of your home and ultimately, help alleviate the stress of listing your home. Now you’re feeling confident! Your Stage Right Stylist has gone through your home, you’ve completed the recommendations provided in the report, but you agree that the presentation of the home could be further elevated. Luckily, Stage Right’s 360 Degree Property Enhancement is available. The Stylist has created a design plan to add the ‘WOW’ to your space that will surely create a lasting first impression. The Stylist is trained to create inviting lifestyles in which potential buyers can imagine themselves living. Using Stage Right’s vast inventory, they will add décor, cushions, and hang wall art; focusing on setting the stage for great photos. People buy homes based on emotion, Stage Right Stylists will trigger those positive feelings, allowing buyers to make the connection needed to make an offer.
What about those sellers who have to move on before their house is sold? Stage Right has you covered! Don’t show potential buyers a cold empty house. Stage Right also provides Vacant Property Staging. Our beautiful, contemporary inventory of furniture, art and décor will transform your vacant house into an inviting home that buyers see themselves enjoying easily. Empty rooms just aren’t appealing; buyer’s eyes are drawn to deficiencies and often judge spaces as being much smaller than they actually are. By adding furniture we immediately lend context and scale to the room. If you can’t get buyers through the door, it makes it difficult to sell. Buyers shop for houses with logic, but buy homes on emotion. Make your home a ‘Love at first sight!’ Vacant home staging is much more affordable than people think and is usually much less than the first price reduction.
Home staging is a very important step before listing your home. When you properly present your home, it shows well, which means it will show more often, which will likely mean it will sell faster. And that’s the goal!
Stage Right Stylists also provide Move-in Decorating, or Decorating to Stay to those who want to love their home – sooner rather than later. You need this service if: • You still have blank walls • You are overwhelmed with decorating, and don’t know where to start • Your home does not bring you joy • Your weren’t born with the decorating gene • You can’t decide on paint colors or are color blind (lots of men are!) • You would like to entertain in your home, but don’t want anyone to see it in its current state • Your home looks like it was last decorated in the 70’s, but not in a cool retro way • You have no idea how to pull all the selections and finishes together for an update • You just need some reassurance that you are on the right track • You HATE shopping; we LOVE shopping – and we can go together if you want!
Translating all of the beautiful things that you see on Pintrest and HGTV into a cohesive style throughout your home can be daunting for some. For others, its fun creating the space of their dreams. You need to determine your style and pull it all together. Is it modern, french country, boho chic, modern farmhouse? For those who don’t know where to start, hiring a professional is something well worth considering. A professional eye can help you style and arrange your things, add artwork to create the dramatic feeling you are looking for, or combine some textures to add some interest, essentially helping you discover your style. Transform your house into the home you love. Your home is your oasis, wouldn’t it be wonderful if you felt amazing every time you walked through the door? Whether selling or staying, let us help you create the home you love at any stage. To view our projects, check out our website (stageright1.ca) or our Facebook page (Stage Right Lethbridge). Let Stage Right help you love the space you live in!
Stage Right Stylists
Elaine Joevenazzo
Wendy. R. Herbers
Gina Huppee
Spa Boy® Automated Salt Water System As people look for natural ways to regain and maintain health, hot tubs and spas have become increasingly popular for their therapeutic benefits. Beyond relaxing the body, spas have been proven to increase blood flow, assist with oxygenation, increase flexibility and range of motion as well as help heal damaged tissue. They also improve sleep, reduce chronic pain and arthritis pain by decreasing inflammation in the joints.
More recently, saltwater spas have come to the forefront, and for good reason. They use fewer chemicals, have no odor, less irritation, need fewer drains and conserve energy. Saltwater hydrotherapy has been around for thousands of years in ancient civilizations. Hippocrates set in motion this form of therapy that remains to this day because of healing properties of the salt. And now Arctic Spas exclusive, cutting edge, “Spa Boy®” system combines all the health benefits of saltwater with the convenience of a system that takes the guesswork out of spa ownership.
About Spa Boy® • Spa Boy® monitors and helps maintain ideal water conditions • Rather than solely relying on inconvenient and imprecise manual testing and addition of sanitizer to your spa, Spa Boy® monitors, and helps maintain ideal spa water conditions. • Spa Boy® simply, accurately and effortlessly helps to maintain perfect clear and safe spa water for you. • This incredible technology uses medicalgrade sensors to constantly analyze key water cleanliness parameters and from this data, the Spa Boy® system precisely controls the output of our integrated salt water system, ensuring that sanitizer levels are kept in the absolute optimum range. • Should your spa’s pH value come slightly out of balance, Spa Boy® alerts the spa owner to correct this condition. Spa Boy® • Relax in a soft and silky high sodium low saline bath that feels absolutely amazing on your skin. And the chemically smell. Non existent.
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Spa Boy® represents the most important advancement to hot tubs in many years! For More Information visit Arctic Spas Lethbridge 2825B 2nd Avenue South (Crowsnest Trail)
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NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL • All paper material is recycled after shredding • Drop off service to our facility available • Bulk shredding and one time services • All shredding is done on-site, giving you the peace of mind that your documents are kept completely confidential. We invite you to witness their destruction. • Three sizes of locking document storage containers for scheduled pickups (monthly, weekly, bi-weekly)
We now also offer a
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Falling in Love with
Southern Spain Writer/Photographer: Perry Mirkovich
“
Everywhere, people danced and clapped along to the rhythms, children bounced in their colourful traditional outfits, the architecture serving as a stunning backdrop.
”
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Corpus Christi, Granada
What timing! Not from any particular skill but rather, just an incredible stroke of luck. We booked our adventure without any awareness of the special, extraordinary events that would be going on at exactly the time of our visit to Granada, Spain. There we were, ignorantly stumbling into Corpus Christi, an exciting celebration that electrified this city and brought people from all over the world to this beautiful medieval center, full of character, charm and home to one of the most spectacular palaces on the planet.
My wife had been more than patient with me on this trip but due to my mildly impatient nature we had come to an agreement. Usually, while she would want to get ready for the day, in peace, I would be like our chocolate labs, bouncing off the
walls with energy, crying to get outside and run around. Of course, my attitude led to a very kind and patient suggestion by my bride to get the hell out of the room and go take some photos, of which I was more than happy to do. So on this, the beginning of our stay in Granada I bolted out of the room to explore and promptly tumbled into an unexpected beehive of activity and swarms of people with unbridled anticipation of the day’s events. I got caught up in the exhilaration and started wandering from spot to spot with a spring in my step and with maximum alertness, I was amazed at what was unfolding. The floats, musicians tuning their instruments, crews getting everything set up, it was a precursor to something big! However, in the enthusiasm of the morning I kind of forgot about my wife but luckily, the
Plaza de Espana, Seville
previous night she had slept on damp hair and took a little longer than usual to prepare. Talk about lucky, thank goodness for wet hair and her precision with a curling iron.
Thousands of people in their finery had lined up on closed streets to watch a procession of marching bands, resplendent horses with riders decked out in elegant fashion, religious symbols carried on the roads carpeted with scattered greenery and a large contingent of flamenco dancers performing in front of the Cathedral with their castanets, all of them in a state of extreme happiness as the uninhibited music rang out loud. Everywhere, people danced and clapped along to the rhythms, children bounced in their colourful traditional outfits, the architecture serving as a stunning backdrop. The cathedral had been opened up to the public with a ceremony in there that eventually spilled out into the parade. It was infectious, this love of life, the buzz of delight in the air, an overflow of activity. There we walked, laughing and amazed, immersed in a delightful foreign culture, colour and life all over the place. I fell in love with Granada.
On the Carrera del Darro, Granada
Upon returning to the room I told my good wife what was happening and gently suggested to her, from behind a door protected from flying cups, that it would be a good idea to see this grandiose event and that we would be short on time as it was all starting to happen. As luck had it, she was primed to go, so off we went to participant in something magical, wading through the crowd arm in arm with smiles on our faces and a much-needed coffee in my wife’s hand. (Actually, I jest as she was magnificent and was a wonderful traveller).
“
Mirador Parasol, Seville
It was amazing to see, fascinating in its design this controversial Metropol Parasol completed less than a decade ago, its abstract design contrasted by traditional Spanish buildings in the background.
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Most of what we wanted to see was in the old center and although the area was not that large, there was so much to see, so much to eat, the whole of this part of Granada was fabulous, a moderately sized center giving off a small-town vibe. The best sites were within a short walk of our hotel and the action went well into the early morning where we walked in complete comfort and without a worry. We found Flamenco to be huge here with high quality street dancers performing for money, many right outside our door at the Plaza Nueva, right beside a magnificent fountain within view of the Alhambra, a Moorish palace and fortress stunning in its vastness and detail of design, all of it insanely beautiful. Rounding each corner brought something more sensational and it just got better as we kept on going, the gardens my wife did not want to leave, the design of the palace was something to behold and there we were walking through history.
We went on constant sorties and one day, while walking along my favourite street, the cobblestoned and historic Carrera del Darro, we hung a left and went up into the hills exploring the incredible area of Albaicin, a residential area with lovely narrow streets designed to naturally provide cool air on hot days the fragrance of flowers filling the air. We followed a winding pathway past boutiques, outdoor restaurants and street musicians there to amaze, all the way to the Mirador de San Nicolas, a stunning, tree lined plaza full of people drinking, eating, dancing and enjoying the company of good friends. With even more musicians filling the air with their tunes we sat there for hours, sometimes talking, sometimes saying nothing, watching the sun set, having a cool drink on this warm evening and just over there
“
Exquisitely charming it was dwarfed by the centuries old, colossal Cathedral of Seville. I am a tall man but here I felt tiny, insignificant, lost in its space while mighty columns, and the altar, reached far above and there I was, craning my neck to see the top of this stairway to heaven.
across the valley, one of the most magnificent sites I have ever seen; the incredible Alhambra set in a forest in the mountains, picturesque streets of whitewashed walls and rooftops of old buildings lining the small river down below. Lovely, remarkable, incredible, romantic Granada.
What can I say about Granada to serve it the justice it deserves? Words fall short. My photos are inadequate to convey the emotion of such a place. It is a place one has to visit to appreciate and for me, I have every intention of returning some day to this place that tugs at my heartstrings.
Several days later, the sun was warm on my face, the smile I could not get rid of as I walked through the tight streets of another fascinating city overflowing with history, packed to the rafters with amazing architecture while church bells pealed in the distance calling out to its congregation and tourists with cameras. The scent of food being prepared at the countless outdoor restaurants along cobblestone streets made my mouth water with the anticipation of a delicious meal while sitting in this kind of atmosphere; a magnificent cathedral across the street, a palace just over there, hidden plazas everywhere just waiting to be discovered, live music in the streets, rich colours filling my senses, it was all too much. This is a place where someone comes to fall in love.
One day while we were walking along admiring all the sites, we turned a corner and there in front of us was a giant convoluted modern-day structure that looked like a waffle soaring high overhead taking up several blocks. All we needed was maple syrup with whipped cream and it would have been a perfect morning. It was amazing to see, fascinating in its design this controversial Metropol Parasol completed less than a decade ago, its abstract design contrasted by traditional Spanish buildings in the background. It reminded me in a way of a brilliant art project done by a dear friend of mine, Doug Kitaguchi, when were young men going through school. In a city with so much history to see I found myself being drawn back many times to this modern masterpiece, to sit in the shade while the sun dappled through the openings of the wooden design, gelato in hand, a cooling fountain right behind us, soaking in the vibrancy of what Seville had to offer.
Cathedral Granada
This massive sculpture was in the Casa Antiguo, or the old center of Seville, which was an embarrassment of riches and the place to be, everywhere we went was like going to visit a scene in some classic, romantic movie. On every street was something beautiful, from the striking medieval Royal Alcazar all the way to inconspicuous churches whose existence was only revealed by their bells ringing out madly, such as the Iglesia de Santa Maria la Blanca whose oversized beauty was jammed into its minuscule settings. Exquisitely charming it was dwarfed by the centuries old, colossal Cathedral of Seville. I am a tall man but here I felt tiny, insignificant, lost in its space while mighty columns, and the altar, reached far above and there I was, craning my neck to see the top of this stairway to heaven. But with all the best known spots, as beautiful as they were, the real soul of the city, for me, was what most
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Horse riders, Corpus Christi, Granada
tourists missed, discovering intimate places off the beaten track and wonderful spaces like the Real Parroquia de Santa Maria Magdalena, where we were drawn in by the symphonic measures of it church bells off in the distance as we walked along one day.
Carrera del Darro, Granada
When we found this place, it looked like we were the only tourists as families gathered in front of the church, talking in excited voices about the service as the next group of people milled about and made their way in, drawing us along with the flow. As we entered what we saw took my breath away, an authentic Spanish scene in a stunning church filled with locals and incense, archways everywhere with artistic details that could have taken a lifetime to complete. There I was, surrounded by the definition of stunning, obviously from some other country, or planet, snapping photos in excitement until I noticed I was the only person doing so but the people there were more than polite with my buffoonery.
The old center was like a maze and one thing I love about historical centers like this is actually getting lost for a bit and in Seville, it was not very difficult to do especially before we learned the layout of the land. The stuff we discovered by accident was spectacular, the little boutiques, like the paper store we spent a few hours in as it was so interesting all the way to entire neighbourhoods, such as the intoxicating Santa Cruz, a labyrinth of romantic little alleyways filled with postcard scenes of a Europe you would see in a dream. Seville was a dream, a wonderful dream one wakes up from refreshed and full of life, invigorated and the richer for it.
I am still young’ish but as I get older it becomes more evident that life is getting short, and that is true for all of us. So, I have become much more selective as to what I plan to do with the time I have left, where I want to spend my time, my efforts, my life and for me, Granada and Seville were worth every second I spent there. How did I get so lucky? Quirk - 24
“
It is a place one has to visit to appreciate and for me, I have every intention of returning some day to this place that tugs at my heartstrings.
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Seville
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- Advertorial -
The Casa Verde Project The Future is Green
We first introduced readers to the Casa Verde Project in May 2018. Since then, we have followed the progress of this net zero home that features the most up to date energy efficient materials on the market. Every aspect of the home has been designed for maximum energy efficiency and longevity. The home is a labor of love for Rudy and Stella Reger, who have been in the business of promoting renewable, sustainable energy products for over 20 years through their company, Energy Smart Canada. It’s been a long road from first working out of their home, to opening a bricks and mortar shop on third avenue South to eventually setting up shop at their current location on Crowsnest Trail.
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In the beginning, in 2001, they introduced low-flush toilets and ondemand hot water heaters, both common place now, but when Rudy and Stella started out most people hadn’t heard of them and were reticent to buy into this “new” technology. Rudy grew up in Germany where these types of products had been utilized for decades. He knew first-hand how they conserved water as well as energy and they just “made sense”. Undaunted by people not being familiar with the technology, he never gave up bringing forward products that were environmentally friendly and energy efficient. It’s his passion, tenacity and unwavering commitment to a greener, sustainable future that has made the company a continued success.
“The home is a labor of love for Rudy and Stella Reger, who have been in the business of promoting renewable, sustainable energy products for over 20 years through their company, Energy Smart Canada.”
The Reger Family
“A net zero home is a home that is on the power grid, but produces energy on it’s own that is credited against energy costs.”
They gradually expanded into geo-thermal heating and air-conditioning as well as solar power. They also discovered and became a dealer for Arctic Spas, an Alberta-based company that builds spas in line with their philosophy and energy efficiency mandate. Their company has won “Dealer of the Year” for several years largely due to their passion and commitment to energy efficient products. When the Regers first opened shop downtown, their three young daughters would come visit the store after school. They are all young women now with two of them working at the shop along with Rudy and Stella. And now the Reger family includes two grandchildren, Hudson and Emilia, who are also becoming very familiar with visits to the store. It truly is a family affair and apropos for a couple who are driven to help create a sustainable future for generations to come. The goal of building Casa Verde was to build a home as energy efficient and self-reliant as currently possible that aligned with the Regers values. They value lessening their carbon footprint, living in a space that contains clean air, not depending on the fluctuating costs of fossil fuels and providing a home for family that would last. A net zero home is a
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“Rudy and Stella have every convenience and appliance imaginable in the home, and this year they added a hot tub and swim spa; demonstrating you can be net zero and still have it all.”
Spa view
home that is on the power grid, but produces energy on it’s own that is credited against energy costs. A net negative home produces more energy than it uses on an annual basis. The 15KW solar system connected to Casa Verde is enough to power the home, charge two electric vehicles, while creating excess energy on an annual basis. And what is especially exciting about Casa Verde, is that the home is “offgrid ready” which means the Regers are set to live completely off-grid when the time is right. Currently, batteries are cost-prohibitive, but once the battery pack costs come down, Rudy and Stella are ready for the next step.
Pond Play Quirk - 28
Master bedroom There are other net zero homes in Southern Alberta, but few have incorporated as many components into one home as Casa Verde. Every system, every building product, every appliance and every detail was designed and geared for maximum efficiency. To start, the home was built on a lot just east of Lethbridge where they could ensure the house was south-facing with large windows to maximize passive solar. The cladding on the home is hardie board, best known for its longevity, appearance and resistance to fires and storms. The specially built walls create an R50 value that is more than double the provincial code, which lessens the cost of heating and cooling while raising comfort levels. The upstairs flooring is cork, which is attractive, comfortable, cushioning, naturally absorbs sound and acts as a thermal insulator all while being completely renewable, sustainable, biodegradable and recyclable. The windows are a European tilt and turn style, triple pane glass compared to standard dual pane windows. Even the beautiful outdoor pond has function. The dirt removed to create the pond was used to build up the house as it has no basement. The bottom of the pond contains the piping for the geothermal field. Water circulates through the pipes and the heat is extracted from the water for heating in the Winter and cooling in the Summer. The three million gallon pond is used for irrigation and fire suppression. Virtually everything in the home has form and function and works synergistically to create a healthy, sustainable environment.
Loft overlooking main floor
Rudy with Hudson and Emilia
“The upstairs flooring is cork, which is attractive, comfortable, cushioning, naturally absorbs sound and acts as a thermal insulator all while being completely renewable, sustainable, biodegradable and recyclable.”
Casa Verde has been home to the Regers for a year now and it hasn’t disappointed. Rudy says, “It’s great actually living in a net zero home and seeing how all the components work together and experience it in real time. Net Zero homes really do exist!”. During the year they added tracking devices on solar and all of the electric appliances and heating sources. This makes it easy to track usage and see what is drawing the most power from the system and adjust if necessary. They also installed a solar air source panel to heat the garage. The garage is as large as the main floor and is where the Regers not only charge up their electric vehicles but is the place where fun and games are had by all. Rudy and Stella have every convenience and appliance imaginable in the home, and this year they added a hot tub and swim spa; demonstrating you can be net zero and still have it all. You don’t have to sacrifice anything. And what is most satisfying is having all these things with no gas or
Bamboo dining table; custom built by Madera. Bamboo is a sustainable, fast-growing renewable building material.
electric bill. It’s amazing when you really think about it! Not only do you not have to worry about fluctuating utility bills, the air and heat are cleaner and healthier. It’s a win-win all the way around.
The Regers are still adding new touches to the home. Of course, the one acre pond with it’s island in the middle is a big attraction for family and friends and this summer they will be building a dock and pier for added enjoyment. They will also be adding a greenhouse, a gazebo and planting more trees as they develop the outdoor area. They added a beautiful outdoor fireplace to their patio area from Blocks and Rocks of Lethbridge The outdoors of the property are as stunning as the home is inside; together, creating a peaceful oasis that is built for a lifetime of enjoyment without the stress of fluctuating energy costs. The Regers have hosted tours of Casa Verde over the past year and reception has
“Casa Verde has been home to the Regers for a year now and it hasn’t disappointed. Rudy says, It’s great actually living in a net zero home and seeing how all the components work together and experience it in real time. Net Zero homes really do exist!.”
Family relaxing by the fireplace
been fantastic. Hundreds of people have come to view the home including college students, SACPA group, County of Lethbridge officials as well as customers and friends.
Casa Verde received Built Green Platinum status from BUILT GREEN® Canada. The Built Green program is a holistic third-party certification that measures a home’s energy-efficiency, longevity and sustainability, and how healthy the home is. Platinum is reserved for ultra-energyefficient homes that are built to last and built with a greatly reduced amount of toxic and VOC materials. Casa Verde also received two wins from the 2018 BILD – Lethbridge Region Awards of Excellence in Housing. One award for Energy Efficient Housing, and another award for Single Family $700,000 - $800,000. And most recently, in 2019, Casa Verde received the provincial CHBA Net Zero award.
The Regers are proud to be part of introducing this technology to Southern Alberta and invite Southern Albertans to schedule appointments to visit their new home, or come to Energy Smart Canada to chat about new and innovative renewable energy products on the market. Rudy is always researching the latest in renewable technology and continues to be excited to bring these technologies to our area. He enjoys sharing his passion for a greener, more sustainable future, and it’s most rewarding to him when he can assist others on their way to creating a home environment that helps make their lives better and more enjoyable.
www.energysmartcanada.com 2825B 2nd Avenue South (Crowsnest Trail)
(403)
327-4129
Casa Verde Net Zero Home Project Quirk - 30
It’s simple.
Print Printing ing | Design | Wide Wide Format |Mail Mail Services Services 403.327.9576
info@warwickprinting.com
www.warwickprinting.com www.warwickprinting.com Follow Us on:
1021 - 3r 3rd dA Ave ve N, Lethbridge, AB T1H 0H7 Quirk - 33
Do I Have Too Much Debt?
by Georgie Erickson
If you are struggling with debt, know that you aren’t alone. BNN Bloomberg announced results of a MNP poll that cited 47% of Canadians said they don’t expect to be able to cover basic living expenses over the next year without taking on more debt. A slightly greater proportion (48 per cent) of respondents said they have less than $200 remaining at the end of the month after covering living expenses and debt payments.
Living in a society that is geared to consumerism and the ease of obtaining credit has created the perfect storm for getting deeply into debt very quickly. It sneaks up on you, much like those extra pounds we ignore while we eat those extra pieces of cake. And like those extra pounds, the only way to mitigate the situation is to actually look at the scale, see the numbers and make a plan. Nothing goes away when we pretend it’s not there, it just gets larger and feels more insurmountable. And debt, as we know, can feel very heavy, like many invisible extra pounds. It affects relationships, health and quality of life. Financial health is a very important part of overall health.
If you're questioning whether you have too much debt, there's a very good chance you do. Having too much debt can lead to other financial problems like not being able to save money, missing bill payments, and having to borrow more money just to stay afloat. Here are a few signs you have more debt than you can handle:
• You don't know how much you owe Out of sight, out of mind doesn’t work with debt. Stop running. Pull your most recent account statement from your creditors to make a list of your debts so you can confront what you owe and make a plan to deal with it.
• You pay your bills late because you don't have any money If your debt payments are more than you can afford to pay each month, you definitely have too much debt. Look closely at your monthly spending to figure out what you can eliminate to better afford your bills.
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• You don't answer the phone because it might be bill collectors When debt collectors start calling you, your debts have become delinquent and probably unaffordable. You may be able avoid debt collector phone calls for awhile, but don’t underestimate your creditors and debt collectors – they may decide to sue you for what you owe.
• You've borrowed money to pay your bills If you have to pay your bills with loans from family, friends, credit cards, or cash advance places, you have too much debt. Reducing your bills or increasing your income will make it easier to afford your expenses without having to borrow money.
• Your finances cause you to lose sleep A sure sign that your debt has gotten out of control. Debt-related stress can lead to other medical problems. Making a plan to deal with your debt can eliminate stress and in some cases, literally save your life.
• Your finances affect your work performance When your financial woes spill into the workplace, it’s time to do things differently. Losing your job is the last thing you need right now because a loss in income could put you over the financial edge.
• You've drained your savings If you drained your savings trying to pay off your debt or to make ends meet, that’s when you know there’s a problem.
• You can't afford living expenses without a credit card or loan When you have to buy groceries with a credit card, it’s a sign of you don’t have enough money to sustain your lifestyle. You have to figure out how to survive on the income you make or increase your income.
• You hide your spending from loved ones If you can’t be honest with your loved ones about your debt, chances are you have too much of it. You may even hide it because you’re afraid they’ll stop you from spending, which might be a sign of that you’re addicted to debt.
LESSONS I’VE LEARNED FROM MY DOGS By Jean Van Kleek
“Love has a way of presenting itself in unexpected ways, and when we listen with our hearts instead of our heads, we give real love a path to find us.”
RECIPE
Bella
She was a non-descript puppy, my little Bella. Of course, all puppies are adorable, but nothing about her stood out to me. I was there to find a friend for Shani, and Shani really didn’t care about any of them. Every time I turned around at the “meet and greet”, there Bella was, at my feet, around my side, in front of me. It seemed she had decided she was the one and let me know she was more than available. Out of sheer persistence, she ended up being our new friend. Shani and I took this this little gorilla looking, round bellied baby home with us where we have lived together for nine years now. What I didn’t know was just how amazing this little poodle/monkey would be and it was she who knew from the beginning that it was me who needed her. Over the past three years I needed several surgeries and once home, Bella never left my side. In fact, there isn’t a time when she is in another room without me. She sits
right against me on the couch and holds hands. She will paw me relentlessly until I give her my hand, then hold it down, bath it a little, then rest her head on top. Sometimes in the night she will paw me… I get up to let her out, but she hops right backup on the bed once I’m up. At first I was annoyed, thinking she was messing with me, then I realized after being diagnosed with sleep apnea that she is monitoring me. And I realized she has always monitored me, she monitored me when we went to choose a puppy. She instinctively knew I needed her and made it her job to take care of me. And me, I didn’t “see” her and the love she was so willing to give because l was looking for the wrong things. Love has a way of presenting itself in unexpected ways, and when we listen with our hearts instead of our heads, we give real love a path to find us.
Beef, Broccoli
and Cheese Cookies Very meaty and leave no crumbs! No grease, flour, oats or oil!
Soft to eat for senior dogs or dogs with dental health problems.
Broccoli has been shown to have anti-cancer effects, treat skin and heart problems and aid in fighting infections.
Please note: Garlic, onions, mushrooms, salt and spices are never to be given to your dog.
3 eggs, beaten, (I use free range) 1/2 cup flaxseed, ground 1 1/2 cup (19 oz) chickpeas, pureed 500 grams (1 pound) extra lean ground beef 4 1/2 cups broccoli, raw & minced. I use the crowns 1 stalk celery, no leaves, minced 1 cup cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or marble), grated I use a food processor to mince broccoli, celery and puree the chickpeas! Grate the cheese!
Digit & Luke In order listed above, mix ingredients well in a large bowl using hands to incorporate. This mixture should be about the texture of a cookie dough. Place mixture on cookie sheet or sheets lined with parchment paper. Pat down mixture into 1/2 inch thick layer and score to desired size using a paring knife. I make one square inch cookies for small dogs but size is up to you. Bake at 350 F for 1 1/2 hours. Check for doneness with your paring knife after an hour. Turn cookies over on cookie rack and let cool. Refrigerate up to five days. These freeze well for up to six months. *Use extra lean hamburger to avoid greasiness (also better for your dog!)
*Michelle's recipes include well researched ingredients to help make your dog happy & healthy.
Michelle Zandstra
The Lethbridge & District Humane Society has been a no-kill haven since its inception in early 1970. It is their goal to take care of strays and abandoned pets until a home can be found for them to thrive and have a new start in life. Some animals stay for years before finding a family to love them.
With the support of Park Pet Hospital & Northside Veterinary Clinic, Quirk would like to introduce a few of the residents who have been waiting for quite some time. Rescued pets are exceptionally loving,
and very grateful for a chance to be with you. If you have room in your home and your heart, please give the Humane Society a call to give one of these furry friends a chance to belong, and be loved.
They are a gift!
Call: (403) 320-8991 Website: lethbridgehumanesociety.com
Meaghan
As soon as Meaghan warms up to you she is the sweetest little girl. She would prefer a quieter home but loves other cats.
Trix
Trix loves to get pets whenever you come in the room. She is a younger lady who gets along well with her roommates in the kitten room
Jack
Jack is a 11 yr old chihuahua cross who is looking for someone to be his cuddle buddy. He would happily sit on your lap and be pet all day long.
Ramsey is a good looking orange and white kitten, about 6 months old. He loves to play his toys, and with his siblings. He's got a great purr, which he uses as soon as you pic up! He's energetic and fun, very entertaining to watch. He'sCats presently residing • Medical & Surgical Care for & Dogs Lethbridge Humane Society, but is looking for his very own Forever Home!
OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Wellness Consultations • Dentistry • Endoscopy, Digital X-Ray & Ultrasound • Laser Surgery • Nutritional Counseling • 24 Hour Emergency Service Available
y with ck him at the
Kipp
Kipp is a 1 yr old chihuahua mix who is always on the go. Whether it is playing with toys, the other dogs, or going for a walk he is usually keeping busy.
Maddie
Maddie is a 10 yr old shitzu cross who just wants to hang out. She loves to be pet and get brushed but gets very excited as soon as you pull out her leash for a walk.
Miya
Miya is a 7 yr old shitzu cross who loves her walks. Even if she just got back she is happy to go again or get attention
Park Pet Hospital 142 Columbia Blvd. West Phone: 403-328-0028
www.parkpethospital.ca
Northside Veterinary Clinic 210F-12A Street North Phone: 403-327-3352
www.northsidevet.ca Visit our website and Facebook page
LSCO was established in 1975 and has grown into a multipurpose 56,200 sq. ft. community centre in the heart of Lethbridge. LSCO has expanded and matured and become one of the largest senior centres in Canada. Over the years the centre has lengthened its reach to serve not only seniors, but younger members of the community as well. The facility includes multifaceted programs such as yoga, pickleball, creative arts, fitness classes, dance and fitness centre, just to name a few. LSCO is also home to a wide range of social services, including Meals on Wheels and the Lethbridge Elder Abuse Response Network (LEARN).
LSCO is now hosting the 8th annual Live Well Showcase. There will be over 70 booths displaying everything that seniors need to know about living healthy, active lives.
If you’d like more information call the LSCO @ 403-320-2222 or check their website at www.lethseniors.com.
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There are also five major speakers including;
• Dr. Bergman – Orthopaedic Surgeon, Kalispell – Staying Active with Arthritis. What’s new in Orthopaedic Surgery? • Travis Zentner – Cornerstone Funeral Home – 9 Struggles Executors Face • Dr. Daren Heyland – Critical Care Physician – Advanced Care Planning – What’s right for you? • Nadine Grandson CPA & Brett Ficiur CPA – Tax Planning Throughout Retirement • Dr. Paul Lewis MD – How Medical Marijuana can help – at any age!
This seniors trade show is the largest of its kind in Alberta. If you or a family member can benefit, you should not miss this event. Admission is Free. The 2020 Live Well Showcase runs the last day of April and the first day of May. (Thursday 10-5pm and Friday 10-3pm), at the LSCO, 500 11th St South.
& garden
L I T N U D E L L E C C AN E C I T O N R E H T R FU MARCH 18-21, 2020 PRESENTED BY
Patio Awnings Shade Screens Rollshutters Trampolines
Party Tents Boat Covers Truck Tarps Teepees
Custom Covers Patio Curtains
We’ve goet d you cover www.LethbridgeCanvas.com 403.328.8424
FULL EVENT DETAILS
HGLETHBRIDGE.CA