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JANN ARDEN’S CHART-TOPPING ALBUM AND AVENUE MAGAZINE BOTH TURN 30. WE TAKE A LOOK BACK.
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Aspen Landing Shopping Centre features top retailers and services in unique, locally-owned storefronts sprawled across a distinctive landscape in southwest Calgary. Whether you need a quick check-up, a mouth-watering lunch, or need to complete an extensive to-do list, you can get it all done at Aspen Landing! FREE INDOOR PARKING.
Aspen Woods Estates is a development community inspired by Calgary’s architectural heritage. The development features beautiful executive homes, breathtaking views, walking and biking paths, and west Calgary’s premier shopping destination Aspen Landing Shopping Centre.
Hello, My Name Is… Chantal Vitalis; here are are few of the musician’s favourite things.
17 Mighty Neighbourly
Discover the little-known community of Southview.
19 How To Be Good
GrayBarYYC serves up libations for a good cause.
20 Dish It
Deconstructing the Pocket Dawg, a popular Saddledome snack.
23 Shop Talk
See what’s
Made
24 The Fun-Things-To-Do List
Get your fun on in January and February. 56 Decor: Favourite Spaces
A fitness-focused homeowner and a local designer team up to create a spa-esque home gym ensuite bathroom.
at
26 Thirty Years of Avenue
It's been three decades since Avenue first hit the streets. We catch up with folks who were making waves then, and look at how the city has evolved and how Avenue has changed alongside it.
38 Evolution of Exclusivity
Calgary’s private clubs are changing to match the who’s who in Canada’s third-most-diverse major city.
48 Tropical Foods to Warm Your Soul This Winter
When the winter blues strike, start eating your way to happiness.
71 Peak Hospitality
The restaurant scene in the Rockies features new spots to check out, new menus to try and new hope in the wake of the Jasper wildfires.
83 Weddings
Celebrating all things wedding! A local couple gets hitched Westernstyle and we showcase the winners and runners-up from our annual wedding service providers online readers' ballot.
KÄTHE LEMON PUBLISHER klemon@redpointmedia.ca
Thirty years isn’t that long in the life of a city, but these days it’s definitely a long time for a magazine. A lot has happened in Calgary since Avenue magazine published its first issue in December 1994.
The city’s population has almost exactly doubled in that time, from just under 800,000 to over 1.6 million. In 2023 alone, we welcomed almost 96,000 new residents. And as the city grows, the work we do at Avenue to connect people to this city through the stories of the people, places and organizations that make it great, seems even more relevant.
Since 1994, Calgary has weathered dramatic ups and downs including the floods of 2005 and 2013, the financial crises caused by the subprime mortgage crash as well as the pandemic, but we’ve also outgrown a boom-bust mentality and put down roots. More and more, this is a city that people move to to live in, not just to make a buck and get out.
And yet some things stay the same. The cover of that first issue of Avenue featured the One Yellow Rabbits, the troupe whose creativity was already putting the city on the map globally amongst theatre lovers by 1994. And you’ll find them in this issue as they prepare for their annual High Performance Rodeo, which runs from January 14 to February 2.
You’ll also hear from Avenue’s first editor, Val Fortney, about those early days. Fortney went from here to an illustrious career as a writer and editor with the Herald but she still makes time to occasionally write for Avenue.
Another constant — Jann Arden. In 1994, her album Living Under June made waves worldwide with hits including “Could I Be Your Girl,” “Insensitive” and “Good Mother.” In this issue, we talk with her about the impact and importance of that album. Former editor Shelley Arnusch did that interview — I want to take a moment to thank her for her years of service to the magazine even as we had to make changes to our business structure that meant we had to part ways.
As we look towards the next 30 years of publishing Avenue, we also continue to change and evolve.
Almost two years ago, my business partner, Roger Jewett, and I bought Avenue and its parent company RedPoint Media Group as well as the arts and culture magazine The Scene. We are committed to ensuring that Calgarians connect to their city through engaging storytelling. We believe that these stories should be high quality, trustworthy and freely available. But in order to continue to keep doing that, we need your help.
If you’re a business owner, please join the ranks of the incredible local businesses who support our work through their marketing efforts — if you rely on others to buy local because it builds a great community, think about how your marketing dollars can do the same.
If you’re a reader, please buy a subscription or become a member of our A-List program.
It’s my incredible privilege and honour to have this platform to tell Calgary’s stories and I hope we get to keep doing it for many years to come.
RedPoint Media Group
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Calgary, Alberta T2T 6T7
(letter mail only)
Phone 403-240-9055
Toll Free 1-877-963-9333 x0
Fax 403-240-9059 info@redpointmedia.ca AvenueCalgary.com
Facebook Avenue Magazine — Calgary Instagram @AvenueMagazine
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Published six times a year by RedPoint Media Group. Copyright (2025) by RedPoint Media Group. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
Canadian Publications Mail Agreement No. 40030911.
We acknowledge the traditional territories and the value of the traditional and current oral practices of the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina and Stoney Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta
Publisher Käthe Lemon, klemon@redpointmedia.ca
Editor in Chief Shelley Arnusch
Design Director Steve Collins, scollins@redpointmedia.ca
Digital Managing Editor Alana Willerton, awillerton@redpointmedia.ca
Senior Editor Tsering Asha Leba, tleba@redpointmedia.ca
Assistant Editors Chris Landry, Michaela Ream
Senior Contributing Editor Colleen Seto cseto@redpointmedia.ca
Contributing Editors Meredith Bailey, Jacquie Moore, Olivia Piché
Staff Photographer Jared Sych
Graphic Designer Sofía Velásquez
Editorial Intern Eula Mengullo
Contributors Elizabeth Chorney-Booth, Valerie Fortney, Alyssa Hirose, Lisa Kadane, Déjà Leonard, Eula Mengullo, Jacquie Moore, Mateusz Napieralski, Olivia Piché, Michaela Ream, Pete Ryan, Chanry Thach
Contributing Fact-Checkers Sarah Comber, Riley Fonger, Fabian Mayer
Proofreader Alex Frazer-Harrison
Land Acknowledgement Advisors Elder Edmee Comstock, Elder Reg Crowshoe, Elder Rose Crowshoe
Print/Digital Production Manager Mike Matovich
Digital Producer Paula Martínez
Client Support Coordinator Alice Meilleur
Senior Account Executive Jocelyn Erhardt
Account Executives Nadine Benoit, Vicki Braaten
Events and Community Coordinator Dare Maurik
Printing Transcontinental RBW
Distribution City Print Distribution Inc.
REDPOINT MEDIA GROUP INC.
CEO, Co-owner Roger Jewett
President, Co-owner Käthe Lemon, klemon@redpointmedia.ca
Director Strategy & Content Meredith Bailey, mbailey@redpointmedia.ca
Art Director, RPM Content Studio Veronica Cowan, vcowan@redpointmedia.ca
Administrative and HR Manager Tara Brand, tbrand@redpointmedia.ca
Accountant Jeanette Vanderveen, accounting@redpointmedia.ca
We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta.
Avenue is a proud member of the Alberta Magazine Publishers Association, Magazines Canada and the International Regional Magazine Association, and abides by the editorial standards of these organizations.
Avenue has partnered with TreeEra to plant 1,425 trees, replacing all the trees used to print the magazine this year.
The Avenue Editorial Advisory Council
Erin Best, Robert Blood, Shalini Bhatty, Brian Boulanger, Danielle Carrafo, Melinda Channon, Amy Cooper, Michal Cote, Carolyn Cox, Tania Drews, Brian Duggan, Nicole Dyer, Will Freeman, Janice Froese, Drew Gillson, Briggitte Gingras, Giono Studio Design, Kelsey Hahn, Amanda Hamilton, Cat Hackman, Mark Heard, Lindsay Hill, Alayne Hing, Rameez Husseini, Anila Umar, Jamie Leong-Huxley, Tania Kaschl, Jolene Livington, Jodie Masikewich, Kris Matthews, Tammy McCorkell, Heather Morris, Kelly Pitaoulis, Colleen Pound, Natalie Preer, Rithesh Ram, Paul Salvatore, Nolandeep Sangha, Ranny Shibley, D Smith, Cynthia Solano, Rachelle Starntes, Heather Stubbs, Ian Sutherland, Gail Urquhart, Edie Vlooswyk, Andrew Ward, Wendy Winder, Naomi Withers, Kevin Wong
Members of Avenue’s A-List become a part of our team and have the opportunity to get a seat on Avenue’s Editorial Advisory Council and see their names here in the masthead of the magazine.
Best known as the lead guitarist and co-songwriter for the vintage rock ’n’ roll band The Lovebullies, Chantal Vitalis is as beloved for her smokin’ guitar skills (Feist touted them at a recent Calgary show) as she is for her playful rapport onstage with her bandmates. It’s when she sits at the
kitchen table in her Bankview home surrounded by the art, people and animals she loves, however, that Vitalis shines brightest.
Born in Holland to Dutch-Indonesian parents, Vitalis learned to play guitar by sneaking the acoustic from her brother’s room when she was meant to be practising oboe for the school band. Later, a high school buddy taught her to play Hendrix and The
Who over lunchtime.
After 15 years as a Lovebully (she also works parttime as a facilities co-ordinator for Getty Images), Vitalis admits that she still gets nervous before gigs. Regardless — playing with the band is one of the most joyful things in her life of many joys.
Watch for a new Lovebullies album to drop later this year. Read on for what keeps Vitalis inspired.
1
FROM HER SPOUSE TO A HAND-BUILT GUITAR, THE MUSICIAN TELLS US ABOUT A FEW OF HER FAVOURITE THINGS.
“These blown-glass figures were made in Canmore with ash from people we loved and lost — my father; my wife, Sandi’s, mother; and friend and guitarist, Kevin Herring. They sit on our fireplace mantel where we also keep a candle that we light to honour someone who died or to give hope to a friend who might be in trouble.” (fireweedglassstudio.ca)
2
“This guitar was made by my friend, Peter Clarke, who is married to my bandmate, Joni Brent. He made it out of an assortment of components, and his sister put a vintage button I love on the neck. When I pick up this guitar, or any of my guitars, it inspires me to write songs and, of course, to play — I always want to learn and get better.”
3
“Caroline Connolly [the Lovebullies’ lead singer and co-songwriter] took this photo, Muddy Horses, early on in her print-making journey, and it’s such a stunner. Caroline is the most talented DIY person I know. She’s a natural at whatever she puts her hand to.”
4
“I’ve been with Sandi for 34 years. She inspires me every day. She never stops creating — she’s a filmmaker and a writer, a lighting designer, and a mentor to the film community. She inspires me to be a better person. She’s very grounding, whereas I can be a bit of a helium balloon.”
5
“Can I choose my cats as an inspiration? They’re sister-rescues from AARCS [Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society]. Amazingly, when we went to get them, they already had names that were [my] and Sandi’s nicknames: Shanti (Vitalis goes by “Chanty”) and Sam. It was so weird. We renamed them Willow and Fern. They’re graceful and mischievous and naughty and loving and curious. I love having that cat energy around me.”
4
THIS LITTLE-KNOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD WEST OF FOREST LAWN IS OFTEN MISTAKEN FOR, WELL, FOREST LAWN. THE GATEWAY TO INTERNATIONAL AVENUE, SOUTHVIEW CAN CLAIM ITS OWN INTERESTING PARKS, INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANTS AND SHOPPING, AND PUBLIC-ART INSTALLATIONS THAT KEEP CALGARY WEIRD AND WONDERFUL.
A poignant memorial to the “boat people” who died fleeing Vietnam after the fall of Saigon, Journey to Freedom Park also celebrates Calgary’s spirit of compassion in helping those who made a new life here. Designed in the shape of a boat, the park is a unique first stop as you head east into the neighbourhood off Barlow Trail.
1907 17 Ave. S.E.
Nothing fancy here, just straight-up cheap, delicious Vietnamese home-cooking.
Mekong Restaurant fan favourites include the sataybeef sub and house-special pho, but don’t miss menu item No. 9 — the charbroiled beef wrapped in lalot leaves has a cult-following.
2885 17 Ave. S.E.
An oversize avocado and a wall of faux-botanical greens make summertime a permanent feature on International Avenue. The art and colour of Unity Park’s public-art installations interrupt the concrete monotony of Southview’s commercial district, even making the side of a dental hygiene clinic worth a pause.
3111 17 Ave. S.E.
Whether it’s cuttlefish or coconut tubers you’re after, Hong Kong Food Market has you covered. You’ll find pretty much every spice, sauce, seafood, noodle and shrimp paste in the wide world of Asian ingredients here. Go for the tokwa’t lechon; stay for an aromatic stroll through the aisles. 3215 17 Ave. S.E.
Five-pin bowling at its old-school best: at Paradise Lanes, little has changed in the six decades since it opened its doors. The first five-pin alley in the city with automatic scoring, Paradise is just that for hipsters, league-bowlers, and fans of onion rings and slushie shots.
3411 17 Ave. S.E.
BY JACQUIE MOORE
how to be good
When Douglas and Vania Gray built a wine room and bar for their personal use and to entertain friends in their Victoria Park townhouse, they had no idea the space would become a swanky hub for positive change.
Douglas is a retired IT entrepreneur and cocktail aficionado with a robust (understatement alert!) collection of spirits (300-plus varieties) and wine (600-plus bottles); Vania is a florist and an elegant maker of savoury bites to accompany the bespoke beverages her husband shakes and stirs. A couple of years ago, Douglas elevated his craft by creating a “passport menu” of drink options for their friends to choose from, including a Tennessee-style whiskey sour and a scofflaw à la Harry’s Bar in Paris.
When one delighted friend jokingly posted a Google review of the Grays’ bar — and Douglas subsequently fielded a few calls from strangers looking to stop by for a drink — the couple hatched a plan to leverage their pro happy-hour skills to help others.
A long-time supporter of Inn from the Cold, Douglas created GrayBarYYC as an incentive to encourage Calgarians to give to the charity. “People can book a table in our private space, come over with their friends for a couple of cocktails and charcuterie, and enjoy the speakeasy vibe with us,” he says. The feel-good catch? “Everyone in the group has to make a minimum donation of $250 to the Inn.” Sure, that’s a pricey couple of hours but, says Douglas, “a martini or glass of bubbly is just a bonus for doing something meaningful.”
So far, the Grays have encouraged more than $45,000 in donations (all proceeds go directly to the Inn, which provides tax receipts) by spending $5,000 of their own on food and libations. “It’s a great way to meet cool people,” Douglas adds. And, of course, an ingenious, philanthropic twist on happy hour. Reserve the private cocktail lounge with your donation at graybaryyc.com.
For more than 25 years, Inn from the Cold has supported families in finding stability during times of crisis. They provide homelessness prevention and diversion, emergency family shelter and supportive housing. They also provide child and youth programming, child care, mental health and well-being support, Indigenous and cultural programming, employment and career counselling, and legal aid. Donations make a significantly positive impact in the lives of children and families. innfromthecold.org
The six-inch baguettes are made to order from two local bakeries; Pocket Dawg staff use a spiking machine to hollow out the buns. For extra-hungry sports fans, a foot-long, double-dawg option is newly available.
The wieners are made locally in four flavours — original, Cajun, all-beef, and bacon and cheddar. The latter is consistently the biggest seller.
No pesto or kimchee here — condiment choices include ketchup, mustard, ranch dressing and, of course, Cheez Whiz, which are artfully added to the inside of your bun before the dawg goes in.
Over the course of an average Flames game, the two ‘Dome concourse locations sell between 1,200 and 1,300 dawgs. The perpetual lineup moves fast with most customers walking away with dinner in under one minute.
Find POCKET DAWG at two concourse locations at the Scotiabank Saddledome, as well as on the Terrace Level in the Alumni Lounge; two more locations at McMahon Stadium.
As one Pocket Dawg staffer told us: “There’s just something about the Pocket Dawg.” We don’t know what it is, either. But we like it.
BY JACQUIE MOORE shop talk
Faced with an increasingly girthy stack of options, bookish love-junkies have been riding a growing wave of romance-lit enthusiasm. While the industry has been thriving since the Brontë sisters put female-centred goth on the bestseller list in the mid-1800s — followed a century later by the popularity of sweet Harlequin-love (i.e., A Kiss in the Gondola) and, a few decades later, by spicy bodice-rippers (The Sicilian Boss’s Mistress, etc.) — the highly relatable, contemporary romance novel is crushing it.
According to numbers from Booknet Canada, overall romance-book sales in this country increased by more than 40 per cent between 2017 and 2022; the COVID-19 pandemic years were particularly robust, with sales figures growing as rapidly as the industry’s variety of romantic sub-genres.
Indeed, do you fantasize about falling in love with a hockey player? There’s a book for that. How about a time-travel tryst? It’s a thing. Then there’s the later-in-life romance; 2SLGBTQIA+ romance; workplace romance; BIPOC romance; paranormal and sci-fi romance; social-justice romance; and so on. It’s a whole lotta love, but Calgary sisters Nicola and Shannon McNaughton have managed to squeeze all the swoon-worthy stories a heart desires into 209 square feet.
Opened in 2023, Slow Burn Books sits a block south of the main drag in Marda Loop, fittingly perched above the très romantique Avitus Wine Bar and sandwiched between a clothing thrift store and a jewellery boutique. It’s a bricks-and-mortar manifestation of the sisters’ love of contemporary romance books, starting with 2020’s hit Beach Read by Emily Henry. “I binged that in one day and then stumbled upon A Court of Thorns and Roses,” says Nicola. “Once I realized fantasy and romance could be combined, I was done for.”
For a while, the McNaughtons didn’t know anybody who shared their passion. “A lot of
“Once I realized fantasy and romance could be combined, I was done for.”
Nicola McNaughton
people were afraid to talk in real life about how much they enjoy romance novels for fear of being judged,” says Nicola. The recent popularity of social platforms such as #booktok, however, ushered in a more diverse, unblushing
of love- and lust-lit as an intelligent, compulsively readable genre.
“We hope our store brings joy to people and encourages readers to connect with one another,” says Shannon. “It’s heartwarming to see people in our own store give recommendations to strangers — we’ve even seen customers who’ve never met joining each other’s book clubs, all because of a shared space.”
Sure, the shopkeeper-siblings could use a little more floor space, not to mention a storage room, but love finds a way: Slow Burn regularly partners with Wild Rose and Marda Loop breweries for book launches and signings. On Jan. 20, the store will host a midnight launch party for devotees of author Rebecca Yarros who have been awaiting Book 3 in her fantasy series. If dragons, magic and steamy sex aren’t your bag, just look around — there’s certainly a bookstore meet-cute on a shelf near you.
When Amanda Pinkham started Kindred Glow & Co in 2020, it was a way to spread some joy amongst her friends with little luxurious gifts — namely candles. But candle-making is a saturated market (check out any upcoming market, or your local Winners, and you’ll see the options are endless.) Luckily, Pinkham found what really brought her joy was the scent-blending process. “Scent has such a powerful memory connection,” she says. Pinkham created a couple of roll-on scents to sell at various Christmas markets and, when she noticed those outsold her candles, she pivoted head-first into perfumes. No.3 Bisous Parfum was part of Pinkham’s first scent collection, released in January 2022. Bisous is the French word for “kisses” — Pinkham is bilingual and most of her scents are named en français — and her vision was a fresh scent with some warmth and a bit of a floral touch that could be worn daytime to nighttime. The result brings together notes of
sandalwood, amber, lemon zest, yellow dahlia petals and vanilla.
Two years later, No.3 is still Pinkham’s top seller across her growing collection of 19 scents. “I think it’s got that je ne sais quoi,” she says. “A lot of people tell me it smells nostalgic to something, and they can’t put their finger on it.”
Kindred Glow & Co’s product line (retailing between $25 and $125) includes home fragrances, and car and reed diffusers in all 19 scents. All products are phthalate-, paraben- and cruelty-free, and made with sustainable ingredients that support ethical and eco-friendly practices. No.3 comes in a 30-ml bottle, a 10-ml perfume oil, a 110-ml reed diffuser and a 100-ml parfum.
Cheer on the Calgary Flames
Join the “C of Red” crowd this month. Grab tickets to a home game at the (not-long-for-thisworld) Saddledome or watch away games at most bars throughout the city. nhl.com/flames
Visit a new Nordic spa
Relax your mind and rejuvenate your body at the new, semi-private Clear Nordic Spa in WestHills Towne Centre. The 4,000-square-foot facility that opened at the end of last year features an in-floor hot tub and cold plunge pool, various saunas, three relaxation zones, and a post-spa Zen room. clearnordic.ca
Take a self-guided food tour
Book a night out for you and your pals on a self-guided restaurant tour through Taste the City. Tours are organized by neighbourhood and include three to five surprise restaurants to dine in. Tours include food, gratuity and reservations at each location. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated when booking. tastings.tastethecity.ca
Go skating at a local roller rink
WHERE TO FIND IT
For a list of Alberta retailers, go to kindredglowandco.com.
Stay warm indoors and skate your heart out at either one of the two indoor roller rinks in this region: House of Skate in the Highfield industrial district in Calgary and SkyCastle Roller Rink, just north of the city in New Horizon Mall off the QE II. houseofskate.ca, skycastleroller.ca
One Yellow Rabbit’s 39th Annual
Ronnie Burkett in Wonderful Joe Mump & Smoot in Exit January 14 to February 2, 2025
Party | Taylor Mac in Conversation with Denise Clarke | Mozart's Birthday Party Unplugged: Nirvana Reimagined Al d
Alexandrov, Nava and Nielsen | Call and Words in Progress | ProArts Concerts Closing Night Party | Laycraft Lounge
Ten Minute Play Festival | Day Player Machine | Mother Nature | Flux in the City Rat Academy | Denise Clarke's Salon Lucy Darling in Indulgence g Closing Night Party Lay exan rov, ava an e sen a an Response | CRM&PNSHM the Land | The First Bad W
It
Avenue’s first editor reflects on the early years of the publication and why it was a product of its time and place.
n the fall of 1994, when an ambitious dream of a new local magazine was being hashed out by a room of creatives around a boardroom table, Calgary was a very different place. The city was still more than 50,000 people shy of cracking the 800,000 population mark. Times were tough economically, and Ralph Klein’s conservative government’s cost-cutting measures were reverberating throughout the province.
Yet, for some of us here, the city held much promise.
A couple of young upstart entrepreneurs, Victor Choy and Paul Vickers, had joined longtime restaurant impresario Witold Twardowski in laying the foundations for becoming the future kings of the Calgary restaurant and club scene, while upscale dining destinations like Dario Berloni’s Teatro and Sal Howell’s three-year-old River Café were raising the bar. On the entertainment scene, local songstress Jann Arden was making big waves with her second album, Living Under June, and we were cheering on local boys Bruce McCulloch and Mark McKinney, whose Kids in the Hall comedy troupe had taken the country by storm with its new sketch-format show on CBC.
We also had our own edgy homegrown theatre troupe, One Yellow Rabbit. Formed back in 1981, by 1994 its members were a staple on the city’s cultural scene, stretching boundaries and audiences’ imaginations with such groundbreaking productions as Ilsa, Queen of the Nazi Love Camp
It’s not surprising, then, that Avenue would feature three of One Yellow Rabbit’s principals on its debut cover. After all, these fearlessly talented — and notorious — artists embodied the upstart magazine’s promise to celebrate the city and what made it unique.
Avenue was born out of Cityscope, a publica-
tion owned by Flemming Nielsen, then-owner of the Plaza Theatre. In early 1994, Nielsen had announced he was putting the decades-old magazine up for sale.
In the fall of that year, Cityscope sales manager Dan Bowman decided to jump ship amidst the confusion and unknown, and he convinced his experienced editorial team — editor Valerie Berenyi, art director Anders Knudsen and graphic designer Denise Saunders — to join him in his vision of an entirely new, Calgarycentric magazine. (Like Cityscope, this magazine would have theatre listings, but those of the Uptown Theatre.)
Berenyi, a talented and experienced writer and editor, wanted a more behind-the-scenes role on this new project, so she recommended one of her regular freelance writers — yours truly. For an editorship that today would involve a regional or even cross-country competition, a nod from a trusted source was all that was
handing the editorial reins back to my mentor, Berenyi, it was to the Calgary Herald. (Berenyi joined me at the Herald a couple years later.)
To be honest, back in 1998, I gauged that the shoestring publication I had worked at had maybe another couple of years of life left in it — not anticipating that RedPoint Media, owner of the former Calgary Magazine, would bring Avenue into its fold in 2003. The move injected new resources and energy into the magazine, resulting at times in issues surpassing 200 pages. Quite a jump from the 24-page inaugural issue we put out.
It was my work at Avenue, my editors at the Herald told me, that landed me the job there, one that, over the next two decades, would have me meeting Queen Elizabeth II and travelling the world chasing stories — or, in the case of 9-11, unexpectedly finding myself in the middle of a story while on location for another one. So, in a sense, I have Avenue to thank for the
needed for me to get the job. That was the kind of city Calgary was back then (lucky for me).
With Berenyi teaching me the ropes of being an editor and two talented visual creatives, Knudsen and Saunders, we began to hammer out what Avenue, and its departments, with their road-worthy names like Detours, Intersections, and Diversions, would be.
Our early issues focused on everything from skateboard culture and the popularity of billiards bars, to Calgary’s unhoused population and the issue of serious young offenders. In 1996, when Avenue was named Best New Magazine in the country — beating out launches from much bigger cities with much more established media sectors — it was the start of decades of awards for the little city-magazinethat-could.
For this wannabe writer and editor, it was also the start of a career the likes of which I could only dream about back then. My three-and-a-bit years at Avenue were exciting, challenging and fulfilling. When I moved on,
career I was able to build, and to build here in Calgary. I was only one part of a magical team of journalists and sales people that was unbridled in its passion for the city, for storytelling, and for promoting the great work of a talented pool of local writers, photographers and illustrators.
And, I must add, led by its first publisher, Bowman, who took a hands-off approach to working with his creative editorial team, letting us soar (and sometimes fall on our faces). We were nothing if not audacious, and we were fortunate to have been based out of a city where our audacity and ambition wouldn’t be tamped down by a media establishment entrenched in a gatekeeper mindset. If that’s not a Calgary story, then I don’t know what is.
So, as Avenue magazine celebrates its Pearl anniversary, this loyal alum, longtime reader and fan will raise a toast to its ongoing success with fondness, appreciation and gratitude for all it offered me, and so many other Calgarians — and to its continued celebration of our city and its citizens.
AVENUE: Can you believe Living Under June is 30 years old?
ARDEN: “Really, I can. It feels like a long time has gone by. I’ve done 16 records and Living Under June was my second record.”
AVENUE: How does it hold up for you? Do you like listening to your old work?
ARDEN: “I don’t really listen, no. You listen so much at the time you’re making it, you just listen, listen, listen. You hear everything hundreds of times. So, I don’t really revisit stuff. If I hear it on the radio once in a while, I’m like, ‘Oh, that’s cool.’
“But I think it holds up well.... That kind of singer-songwriter music generally tends to have a much longer shelf life than typical pop music. So, in that regard, you could put Living Under June on today, and it’s very much that — a grassroots singer-songwriter record. It doesn’t really date itself production-wise.”
AVENUE: Did you anticipate the kind of response this album would get? Did you feel like you had made something that was going to be really popular?
ARDEN: “Oh Lord, no! I mean, it felt really special making it, the songs felt really solid and the band was excited. But, as far as it getting any traction, oh, god, I was absolutely clueless. I’m still surprised all these years later by the legs that “Insensitive” has, and where that song took me. I didn’t write that song — it was written by another Calgary woman named Anne Loree. She was a waitress at a diner, and I remember hearing her play at little clubs in Calgary, and that’s one of the songs she would play. This is in
ailing from Springbank, singer-songwriter Jann Arden was a hard-working musician for over a decade before the release of her second album, Living Under June, catapulted her into the spotlight in the fall-winter of 1994-1995 (right around the time Avenue launched as a publication). We caught up with Arden to find out what it was like making her hit record, how it feels to still be performing the Living Under June songs 30 years later, and why she has remained a hometown gal, even after achieving worldwide success.
Hthe ’80s, and I just thought, ‘What a great song that is.’ I’m still surprised by the success of that song, and how much it is covered.
“The whole record kind of took off; I think there were six or seven singles off of Living Under June. I literally left home and I got back three years later. It was that crazy of a time, like Letterman and Leno and Good Morning America and all the American press and that New Year’s Eve special with Dick Clark — I remember taping that in October and pretending that it was New Year’s. It just seems like a blur, but really, a special time, for sure.”
AVENUE: You’re saying you taped New Year’s Rockin’ Eve in October 1996 and had to pretend it was New Years?
ARDEN: “Yeah, they always did [record musical performances in advance of the New Year’s Eve festivities]. It was always pre-taped. It was in a warehouse with people dressed up in hats, they weren’t really drinking, they were extras, just standing around in the corner like a bunch of bowling pins [until the] song would start. I think I did “Insensitive” and “Good Mother.” Not particularly New Year’s Eve fodder! I mean, you couldn't ask for two more depressing songs. I just remember people kind of slow dancing in this giant warehouse, lit up to look like a New Year’s party. It’s like The Wizard of Oz; you get to look behind that curtain, and everything becomes very kind of perfunctory. And you’re like, wow, this is what this is. It’s just kind of a made-up thing.”
AVENUE: What were you like at the time when this album came out?
ARDEN: “Exactly the same. I was very feet-onground, and I didn’t take any of it too seriously … I mean, I live in the same place [now] that I lived in then. I had lived in downtown Calgary for a while, but, as soon as I could afford to, I moved back out west of the city, and I’m still there. I still have the same friends. My life is very steady. You know, I’m a working musician. That’s what I am. I’m not a celebrity. There’s no street named after me, none of that. People don’t put up a fuss around me at all. I’ll wander around Costco on a Saturday afternoon, and I might have two people that look at me like, ‘I think that’s Jann Arden’s mother.’”
AVENUE: The one thing people say about this city is that often the richest guy in the room is the one who looks like he just walked in from mucking out stalls, so that “everywoman” aspect kind of makes you the quintessential Calgarian artist.
ARDEN: “Yeah, I never wanted to leave. Every time I went to Los Angeles, I was like, am I ever glad I don’t have to live here! But, keep in mind I signed my record deal when I was almost 30, so I was a fully formed person. I wasn’t naive, I wasn’t 15, I didn’t have anyone moulding me. I’d been working in bars for over 10 years. I had so much experience, I was an old lady at 30. I was kind of beaten up, and I’d been drinking really hard for a decade. I played week after week after week in bars — it wasn’t like I did a contest on a TV show for 14 weeks and suddenly was a household name. It was an incredible amount of work.”
AVENUE: If you could go back to when you were making this album and change anything, what would you change?
ARDEN: “I don’t think anything! I mean, it’s a really good question, but I felt like I was in such capable hands. My producer Ed Cherney, who sadly passed away a few years ago, when I met him, he was working with Bonnie Raitt on Nick of Time and Clapton on “Tears in Heaven” — he had come off these huge Don Was records — and he took me on. He said: ‘I’m really good at clearing the way. That’s what I’m going to do. I’m going to clear a path for you and your songs.’ He said, ‘We just want to hear the songs and we want to hear what you have to say.’ So, I’m really grateful to him.”
AVENUE: What’s something you love most about the album?
ARDEN: “Jackson Browne was always wandering around — he owned the studio and he had a little office — and he ended up singing on one of the tracks [“Unloved”]. Ed said, ‘Why don’t you ask him? It wasn’t written as a duet, but I bet it would play really well as a duet.’ So I was like, ‘Hey Jackson…’ And he was like, ‘I’d love to. Sure, sure Jann.’ And, I mean, Jackson Browne was one of my heroes growing up! Just one of the greatest, he was in Laurel Canyon with Joni Mitchell and Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young!
“I remember David Crosby coming in the studio one day, showing everybody all these guitar tunings, and we were just all sitting staring at him. But they were just normal guys. They wanted to hang out and listen to music. And I was made to feel like I deserved to be there, and that was special. It did a lot for my confidence.”
AVENUE: Like you said, you’ve put out 16 albums, but this one is so beloved. People still want to hear “Insensitive.” So what’s it like performing those songs now?
ARDEN: “They feel just as solid and just as present and new as they ever did. I know that seems
(A CCORDING TO STYLIST DANNY E F ROM THE C ORNER S ALON, W HO HAS B EEN CUTTING HAIR IN C ALGARY S INCE 1977) T HEN
(C ALGARY BOARD O F E DUCATION)
T HEN 211 | N OW 251
hard to believe — you will talk to artists that are like, ‘If I ever have to sing this song again…’ But I’ve never felt that way. There are probably five songs we do off of Living Under June on every tour. I couldn’t not sing, “Good Mother.” I couldn’t not sing, “Could I Be Your Girl.” I am always grateful for them. They’ve morphed over the years, of course, live, but it’s still so, so fun.”
[The video for “Insensitive,” shot at the Anderson Apartments on the 800 block of 18th Avenue S.W., is just as iconic as the song. Arden and her collaborator, fellow Calgarian Jeth Weinrich, shot around 10 or 11 of her videos here in the city.]
AVENUE: You had been recording in L.A. with these big-time producers and your musical heroes, but then you came back to Calgary to film your videos. Why?
ARDEN: “I just wanted to be home. It’s not a made-up place ... I still travel 200 days a year in my job. So, trust me, you just want to go home. I want to hang out with my dog and be in the house. I wouldn’t know what to do in L.A. Like, what do you do there? Sit in traffic? Buy a Salma Hayek smoothie? They need a Jann Arden smoothie somewhere.”
AVENUE: What’s in the Jann Arden smoothie? JANN: “Chocolate protein powder — like Vega, I love that stuff — a banana, maybe a little bit of oats, and some oat milk or coconut milk, and a bunch of ice, and blitz it up. There you go. It’s like a milkshake. Would it kill somebody to name a smoothie after me?”
Interview has been edited and condensed.
P OPULATION O F C ALGARY
T HEN 738,184 N OW 1.68 MILLION
GDP OF CALGARY T HEN $59,689,500,000 N OW $13 2 ,449,100,000
(AT BASIC PRICES IN CHAINED 2017 DOLLARS, FIGURES FROM CED)
l Duerr was mayor of Calgary at the time Avenue was launching. A city alderman (now called city councillor) since 1983, he was first elected mayor in 1989 after incumbent Ralph Klein resigned to pursue provincial politics. Duerr would be re-elected in 1992, 1995 and 1998, bowing out before the 2001 election. Currently, he is CEO of General Magnetic Canada Inc., an oil and gas clean-tech company. We caught up with him for a quick chat about what the city was like in 1994-1995 and how much it has changed.
AVENUE: What was Calgary like in the mid-1990s?
DUERR: “The city was slower paced, because we were coming out of a recession, but there was a fair degree of optimism about where things were going … I think we recognized that we had it within us to deal with those very challenging times.”
AVENUE: What was your biggest challenge as a mayor and as a council at that time?
DUERR: “The biggest challenge was financial. When I was elected mayor, we had about a $1.2 billion mill-rate debt. Then, the provincial government under the Klein Revolution cut our grants from around $100 million a year to $25 million.
“I’m pleased to say that, over that entire period when we were financially challenged with respect to grants and things, we still ended up having the lowest tax increases in probably Cal-
gary’s history [Duerr implemented a tax freeze between 1994 and 1997]. And we also paid down a significant portion of the debt.”
AVENUE: What was the highlight of being mayor at that time?
DUERR: “The Task Force on Community and Family Violence. When [the task force] reported to council with 66 recommendations, ultimately, all but one recommendation was implemented. So, I was thrilled, frankly, by the way people came together around a very difficult issue … as mayor, I didn’t do all the work, but I gave the issue voice. It takes an entire community to address issues like that.”
AVENUE: What is the biggest difference between Calgary in the mid-1990s and today?
DUERR: “In 1994-95, population growth was
very low. We were out banging on doors, encouraging people to come to Calgary. Right now, Calgary is faced with a burgeoning population and extremely high growth rates.”
AVENUE: What do you think is the biggest challenge for Calgary right now?
DUERR: “Rapid growth is probably the biggest challenge, because there is a lag in terms of when you see the population growth and when you can actually start collecting property taxes that these new citizens will generate to pay for things. [Rapid growth] creates housing problems, it creates infrastructure problems, it creates all of these other obligations that are there to manage that growth — if it’s happening very quickly, you’re always behind.”
Interview has been edited and condensed.
Calgary theatre company One Yellow Rabbit originated in 1981, but it really hit its stride in the 1990s, a trajectory that landed co-founders Blake Brooker and the late Michael Green, along with Denise Clarke, who joined the ensemble in 1988, on the cover of Avenue’s inaugural issue, with a declaration of their company as the one that “goes where others fear to tread.” We caught up with Brooker for a chat about making theatre then and now.
AVENUE: What was it like making theatre back in 1994-1995?
BROOKER: “We have always been a local and what we call ‘authentic’ theatre company. We’ve always believed in being real to ‘here,’ in the sense that all culture comes from somewhere. When you live in a colonized mindset, you always think that superior material comes from other places, but that’s just the commercial world breathing down our necks. I always point to Pina Bausch coming from Wuppertal, Germany, or, of course, The Beatles coming from Liverpool — [all art] has got to come from somewhere. We always dared ourselves to survive here and not have to leave and be elsewhere.
“What it was like making theatre in 1995 was us against the world, in a way, and also us against Canada, because, at that time, there was a kind of chauvinism against Calgary in Canada, to a certain degree. If you pay attention, it still exists. It’s like, ‘Oh, why would you be there? What are you doing there?’
“In September 1994, we had been in Edinburgh doing a show, and some people there invited us to Singapore and Australia — to a festival in Perth, Australia, and then to Singapore
CITY-MAINTAINED
where this contemporary Chinese theatre company wanted us to come and make a show for them! So, in ’95, it felt like we were on the cusp of possibility, and the cusp of a potential to share our Calgary sensibility with others.”
AVENUE: How has the Calgary theatre scene changed?
BROOKER: “It has changed with the same fever speed and delirium as everything else. It has changed because of this unholy, unlikely and unpredictable relationship with the digital revolution, because everything is mediated digitally these days — sometimes your short little Instagram expression about a show is seen by more people than will ever see the show.
“And the whole context is changing. We’re seeing more micro-events and different kinds of performances. For example, at the High Performance Rodeo, it used to be a lot of plays. Now you don’t see as many plays as you did before. Now you see more performance theatre. You see happenings. You see immersive events. You see experiential events. You see comedy.”
AVENUE: Who are the theatre artists that will be the ones to watch in the next 30 years?
BROOKER: “Well, the Beautiful Young Artists (One Yellow Rabbit’s development program). Javier Vilalta, a Mexican-Canadian visual performance creator; Makambe K. Simamba, she did a show last year about Trayvon Martin with Handsome Alice Theatre; [actor-puppeteer] Ali DeRegt; and Jamie Dunsdon, who has been a director around town and did a show called Bliss at the Rodeo a few years ago. The last person I’d put on this list is an actor I saw last spring in The Shakespeare Company’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream — incredible voice and energy. His name is Nikko Angelo Hinayo.” Interview has been edited and condensed.
“If you ar e a leader who ha s integrity, gives back, brings people together and is kind, then you’re the kind of member that we want at the club.”
BY DÉJÀ LEONARD ILLUSTRATIONS BY PETE RYAN
C ALGARY HAS A RANGE OF PRIVATE CLUBS — SOME
S O ESTABLISHED THEY PRECEDE THE CITY ITSELF,
W HILE OTHERS ARE JUST GETTING STARTED. BUT, OLD
O R NEW, PRIVATE CLUBS MUST EVOLVE TO KEEP UP
W ITH THE CHANGES TAKING PLACE IN CANADA’S T HIRD - MOST - DIVERSE MAJOR CITY.
The moment you step into The Ranchmen’s Club, you are transported into a piece of Alberta’s history. Established in 1891, three years before Calgary officially became a city, club members first gathered at the Lougheed Block and Mariaggi’s Restaurant. The club settled in its current Beltline location in 1912. The three-storey brick building adorned with terracotta accents and stained-glass windows looks every bit the part of a traditional private club with book-lined walls, an impressive collection of Western art and taxidermied mounts watching who comes and goes.
These days, who comes and goes seems to be changing. While clubs like The Ranchmen’s pride themselves on attracting members from the city’s movers and shakers, that group has historically been fairly homogenous — the same male, pale and stale leadership that was also seen in boardrooms, City Hall and other seats of power. A mix of membership practices, pricing and sometimes even club regulations kept racial and religious minorities as well as women out of most private clubs. But, as Calgary changes, many of the city’s private clubs are working to address their exclusionary practices and evolve for current times.
While much of the shift has been organic, reflecting the demographics of the rising leaders in Calgary’s diverse communities, private clubs have also needed to specifically invite diversity or risk becoming irrelevant.
At The Ranchmen’s Club, women weren’t granted full membership until the early 1990s. However, the board now has more women members than men, and, in 2019, the club welcomed its first female president, Dena Dixon.
While the majority of the members are still men, Ellen Parker, CEO of Parker PR and board member at The Ranchmen’s, notes that most new members are younger female business and community leaders. “I believe that leaders like myself have a great opportunity to ensure we reflect the thought leaders of today,” she says.
Welcoming racially diverse members may not be as easy, however. One factor is that at many clubs, including Ranchmen’s and the Petroleum Club, new members need to be invited or endorsed by an existing member. The children of existing members also often have an easier path to membership.
“Because it’s a private club, there are a lot of multi-generational members,” says Parker in discussing the comparative lack of racial diversity. But, she adds, current members are focused on growing the club by inviting their own diverse networks, which keeps the membership and club programs evolving. “The club sticks to its mission and its vision of being a place for the leaders in our community, whoever they are, whatever they look like,” Parker says. “If you’re in the community doing great work, and you are a leader that has integrity, gives back, brings people together and is kind, then you’re the kind of member that we want at the club.”
The Calgary Petroleum Club was founded in 1948, just one year after the Leduc No. 1 oil strike south of Edmonton. The club was known for being exclusive, originally catering specifically to male executives in the petroleum industry.
When University of Calgary Chancellor and Canadian Football Hall of Famer Jon Cornish joined the Calgary Petroleum Club in 2016, they were among very few visible minority members. But, in recent years, Cornish has witnessed a shift across many of Calgary’s private clubs. “They’re all taking steps to make sure their
“W hen you include o thers, y ou d on ’ t j ust include them, y ou include t heir c ommunities.”
Jon Cornish, chancellor, University of Calgary and member, Petroleum Club
membership reflects what Calgary looks like today,” Cornish says.
The Calgary Petroleum Club has been intentional in welcoming diversity into the club, partly by working with non-profit organizations. Events hosted by groups like the Hong Kong Canada Business Association Calgary, Alberta chapter of the BlackNorth Initiative and the Calgary Black Chambers bring in new people, many of whom go on to become members. “When you include others, you don’t just include them, you include their communities,” says Cornish, who co-founded the Calgary Black Chambers. “And, when you include more communities, you cultivate growth that pulls everybody up.”
Cornish notes these changes strengthen the club’s community and ensure it remains relevant and vibrant in a diverse city. At the same time, they stress the importance of striking a balance: “I think it’s so important for these private clubs to be inclusive while
still maintaining the value of being an exclusive place to be.”
Generally, this exclusivity is upheld by the fact that people must be referred by current members to join. Membership fees also limit access — joining the Petroleum Club costs the average person an entrance fee of $3,300 (plus GST) and a monthly fee of $183 (plus GST). Fees are cheapest for family of existing members. (The Ranchmen’s Club doesn’t release its fee structure to the general public.)
The Calgary Black Chambers, a nonprofit association dedicated to making Calgary more equitable for Black residents through scholarship, fellowship, mentorship and advocacy, has found a significant partner in the Calgary Petroleum Club. Since the Black Chambers’ inception in 2019, it has used the club as a key meeting space, initially by being invited as guests of Petroleum Club members such as Cornish.
“The Petroleum Club is really impor-
tant to us; it’s where we started meeting every month,” says Chi Iliya-Ndule, cofounder and president of the Calgary Black Chambers. “It’s also strategic for us, because it’s not a place where Black people have traditionally been present.”
As the non-profit grew, the Black Chambers eventually purchased its own corporate membership, allowing the group to host a monthly speaker series, large events and the first in-person Calgary Black Achievement Awards in 2021 at the Petroleum Club.
Cornish and other Black Chambers' co-founders credit the Petroleum Club’s general manager, Toni-Marie Ion-Brown, and function co-ordinator, Carole Fjellstad, for playing key roles in fostering these relationships and helping the club become more inclusive.
While the progress has been notable, Black Chambers co-founder and partnerships director Kene Ilochonwu suggests there’s still room for improvement. “It would appeal to more non-
profits if these private clubs provided some sort of reduced membership,” he says. Ilochonwu also notes that, as the members and guest base become more diverse, the club should expand its food options to better accommodate different cultural preferences.
Meaghon Reid, executive director of Vibrant Communities Calgary, believes private clubs can play a crucial role in supporting non-profits, particularly during challenging times. As the leader of a non-profit focused on reducing poverty through research, policy and advocacy, Reid understands the value of financial support and meaningful conversations that can come from these clubs. “Certainly, for the nonprofit and charitable sector, there are often opportunities where there are fundraisers — and those are incred-
ibly important to organizations that really need that money, especially now, when they are so financially depressed,” Reid says.
Reid emphasizes that clubs are forming everywhere in the city. “People are creating clubs of all different kinds,” she says. “There are a lot of people in Calgary that are community connectors that bring people together around lots of different topics or around similar interests. The difference is the setting, and the difference is who’s allowed to join.”
Alice Lam, a Calgarian working in commercial real estate and a social entrepreneur, also points out that the majority of clubs in Calgary are grassroots, community-based initiatives.
“Chinatown is full of clubs like these — little fraternity, private clubs that have been around for 150 years; many in response to being left out [of other private clubs],” she says.
One example is the Lee Association. Founded circa 1910, it's the oldest association in Calgary’s Chinatown. Lam says that these clubs have evolved over time, as well. At first, members, who were typically immigrants, were more focused on survival and mutual aid during the world wars and economic depressions. Now, Lam says, the organizations are able to prioritize recreation and community building.
At their core, Lam believes these grassroots clubs share similarities with larger, more established ones like Ranchmen’s or the Petroleum Club. “We’re not as fancy, but we hold real estate, we have members, we have fundraisers, and we have dinners and gatherings. As long as you’re a member, you can come and hang out anytime,” she says.
On the other hand, these clubs don’t exercise the same exclusivity — while some are referralbased, no one is excluded based on business, power, influence or money. Many memberships are as low as $10 per year to join. At the same time, Lam says she is encouraged by the growing inclusivity of some of Calgary’s more exclusive clubs and the emergence of new ones. “This actually makes us a stronger city. What sets us apart is the fact that people are highly encouraged to create their own brand, their own circle of people,” she says.
Ultimately, Lam sees private clubs as a positive force. “If you’re building community, building neighbourly relations, getting people involved in philanthropy — I think that’s a win for Calgary across the board,” she says.
Now, new private clubs are on the horizon for Calgary. One of the most anticipated projects is the Eau Claire Athletic Club, set to open this year in the former Eau Claire YMCA building. Spanning more than 100,000 square feet, the club will offer a wide range of amenities, including an aquatic centre, squash courts, a full Nordic spa, fitness studios and private work pods.
Another is aspiHer (pronounced “aspire”), a new private club that seeks to blend professional development, networking and wellness for women. Co-founded by Desirée Bombenon, entrepreneur and current CEO of Dezco Management, and fellow entrepreneur Milena Radakovic, the club will feature offices, boardrooms, and spa and fitness services. While still in the process of raising capital and searching for the perfect location, in the meantime, aspiHer has already begun hosting monthly gatherings at the Calgary Petroleum Club — a partnership Bombenon is grateful for as her club builds momentum.
While Bombenon acknowledges the value of existing private clubs, she notes that aspiHer will cater specifically to the needs of women.
“The purpose is empowering women to reach their full potential,” she says. “There’s a certain ambiance created when you get women together in a room where they’re comfortable and feel safe. Women have very different needs and challenges, and we understand that those unique challenges faced by women in the corporate world need to be looked at and supported differently, as well.”
When it comes to private clubs in Calgary, the definition of “exclusive” continues to evolve to incorporate greater racial, gender and sexual diversity. But exclusivity is still what makes private clubs appealing in the first place. It is still those with money, power and connections who are able to overcome the social- and financialcapital hurdles it takes to become and remain a member. And a key attraction of private clubs is the opportunity to be in the room with other high-powered local decision-makers.
Big deals are signed and important decisions and connections are still made behind the doors of these clubs. Some see that as a
problem and directly counter to Calgary’s much-repeated promise that this is a city that values work ethic and ideas more than status and connection.
“P eople who are w ealthy do not e xclusively own t he d omain of c onvening.”
Meaghon Reid, executive director, Vibrant Communities Calgary
For her part, Vibrant Communities Calgary’s Reid is not too concerned that private clubs are places where connections are made and influence shared and even sees opportunities within the clubs to support others.
“People who are wealthy do not exclusively own the domain of convening,” Reid says. She also sees private clubs as venues for essential conversations, though she emphasizes the need to consider who might be missing from the conversation. “Where there are conversations happening about what’s happening in our city, province and country, there’s an opportunity to bring different voices [to] that table."
As private clubs continue to evolve, both the clubs themselves and the city will benefit from this changing idea of what exclusivity is and what its benefits can be both for individuals and for society.
When it comes to living well in our golden years, the communities we choose to age in matter. Here’s a look at some of the housing and support options available to older adults and their families in the city, running the gamut from 55-plus independent living to assisted care and memory care, all in connected communities with vibrant activities and services. Read on for ideas for what might work best for you and your family when it comes to living and aging well.
Riverwalk
The Riverwalk Retirement Residence by Verve Senior Living, a luxurious 12-storey retirement home opened in 2023 in Cliff Bungalow-Mission, reimagines what it means to enter the senior stage of life.
“There’s a perception that senior communities aren’t vibrant. But Riverwalk is like a cruise ship on land. It’s a great place to remain independent with wellness supports when you need them,” says Sheri Brown, director of sales and marketing, Western Canada, for Verve Senior Living.
In 2022, Cliff Bungalow-Mission was named the best neighbourhood for seniors in Avenue. It’s no surprise why as the community offers a lively lifestyle for seniors, with great walkability and access to shops, services, cafés and scenic trails. Riverwalk’s location puts seniors at the heart of this vibrant neighbourhood.
Within Riverwalk, residents feel connected and engaged through amenities and specialized programs. Monthly events include visits from guest speakers about music, art and health, and excursions to galleries or the salon. Each day, seniors are
empowered with choice and support for their mental and physical well-being.
As needs change, Riverwalk offers tailored care, from independent to assisted living and memory care for seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s. For those who need extra support for a limited time, such as during surgery recovery, respite stays provide full professional care and the experience of a fulfilling retirement at Riverwalk.
Move-in-ready units are available now as well as special 2025 promotions on select suites. Book a tour, try a meal, and see how fulfilling the Riverwalk lifestyle is for yourself.
Origin at Spring Creek offers a full and active retirement lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty and tailored care for its residents.
So many pilgrimage to the Canadian Rockies as one of the most beautiful places in the world. At Origin at Spring Creek in Canmore, an hour west of Calgary, you can make this special place your retirement home. Origin brings a community-focused approach to caring for seniors so you can enjoy mountain living.
“Since opening, the vision of Origin has been a place where seniors can continue to live and thrive in Canmore. Origin is now the leading destination retirement community in the Bow Valley,” says Melissa Bonner, RN, assistant general manager at Origin.
With a deep passion for the people who call Canmore home, Frank Kernick, a local developer whose family has called Canmore home for three generations, built Origin at Spring Creek — a community-focused retirement residence where seniors can live actively with complete support.
Origin ensures its residents feel connected and engaged through amenities within the property and the town.
Accessible walking trails, scenic views, local shops and cafes are all within walking distance. Residents enjoy daily social events and exercise programs, an accessible shuttle service to wherever they need in Canmore or Banff, and a spa with hair stylists, beauticians and massage therapists.
Tailored care, including independent living, inclusive living, memory and respite care, is available to support residents’ needs wherever they are at. Trial stays are also offered to see whether retirement in the mountains is the right choice.
The Edward offers an active community for independent seniors
Located in South Calgary, the Edward offers premier retirement living in Calgary, combining luxury and comfort in a boutique-style community for active seniors who value independence. Residents enjoy modern studio, one- and two-bedroom suites with high-end finishes, spacious layouts and full kitchens — ideal for those downsizing without compromising independence or comfort.
Beautiful common spaces, including a rooftop garden and welcoming dining areas, encourage socializing and engagement. Dining is a highlight, with continental breakfast every weekday, brunch on weekends and chef-prepared dinners daily at The
Nest Bistro or The Marjorie Dining Room, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Private dining rooms are also available for hosting friends and family, ensuring a personal touch to every meal.
Wellness is at the heart of The Edward's lifestyle, with an on-site fitness centre, yoga and stretching classes, and creative arts programs that nurture physical and mental health. The Hive salon and spa offer pampering services like manicures, pedicures and hairstyling. Planned outings, clubs and social events provide residents with ongoing opportunities to stay active and connected.
Safety and convenience are paramount at the Edward, with 24-hour security, emergency pendants, weekly housekeeping and luxury transportation services for appointments or outings. Personalized care and support services are also available for those needing extra assistance.
The Edward blends luxury living with community and wellness, making it the perfect choice for seniors seeking a vibrant, independent lifestyle in a supportive environment. It’s the place for curated retirement living.
When Calgary’s winter has you feeling like a human icicle, Paper Lantern in Chinatown offers a cozy refuge. Once you step inside, the soft glow of lanterns and the eclectic art instantly transports you from our snow-covered streets to a locals’ bar
in Saigon. The Asian-inspired cocktails are as skilled as they are fun — think vibrant flavours, like the Plum God with salted-plum bourbon, rye, sweet vermouth, cynar and grapefruit bitters. If you brought the whole gang with you, treat yourselves to a punch
bowl. I guarantee you’ll walk out of Paper Lantern feeling like you’ve just spent the day at the beach — minus the tan lines, but definitely sporting that “I’m totally chill” look.
115 2 Ave. S.E. (basement), 403-457-7765, paperlantern.ca, @paperlanternyyc
inter in Calgary can be downright miserable, and, by February, I’m ready to call it quits. My car’s frozen solid, my toes are perpetually numb and every breath feels like I’m inhaling ice shards. The cold hits harder than the pain of not getting tickets to the Eras Tour.
When winter gets this mean, there’s only one way I know to cope: eat my way through it. A serving of Malaysian laksa with rich coconut broth and bold spices is a sunny vacation in a bowl. A spoonful of chè, packed with fresh durian, jackfruit and lychee, gets me daydreaming of palm trees, even as snow piles up outside. Let’s be real — this is how you cure the winter doldrums.
So, let’s turn this snowpocalypse into a flavour-filled escape: Here are my top 10 things to eat (and drink) right now in Calgary that will help you forget the cold, warm you from the inside out, and transport you to faraway locales of sun and sand.
When Calgary’s winter has you bundled up like a marshmallow, Rao Bistro’s “Beef 7 Courses” (Bò 7 món) is here to melt the freeze with beef served in glorious ways (it’s not literally seven courses, but who’s counting when it tastes this epic?). Start with the beef congee — Rao’s twist adds lentils, making it so perfectly balanced, it’s an unexpected, but flawless flavour hit. Then dive into the papaya salad with beef jerky, steamed meatballs and a DIY vinegar beef fondue, which has you rolling up summer rolls like a pro. And the mam nêm sauce is packed with umami and, trust me, I’m dipping everything in it. You won’t want to miss a single bite.
806 Centre St. N., 587-352-2506, raubistroyyc.ca, @raubistroyyc
Craving a warm escape? Enter Picaditas. Tucked into an industrial strip mall, blending right in with warehouses and delivery trucks, this restaurant’s a true hidden gem. The no-frills exterior might not catch your eye, but the inside feels like a family secret you’re lucky to know. I’m here for the whole fried fish with patacones (fried plantains) — crispy, golden perfection paired
with savoury-sweet crunchy plantains. This dish takes you straight to the shores of Cartagena, where you’re lounging under a tree, enjoying the Caribbean breeze in your hair, and sipping on a refreshing glass of limonada de coco — without the pesky sand in your shoes.
414 Manitou Rd. S.E., 403-271-8120, @picaditasyyc
Punch your ticket to flavour town with a seat at one of the recurring Ethiopian Veggie Bonanza pop-up dinners by chef Gideon Gebremichael at Scozzafava’s Deli. (The dinners were formerly at Missy’s This That cocktail bar.) The veggie platter is a vibrant spread of Ethiopian stews and dishes that’ll make your taste buds dance. Feast on spicy lentils, savoury greens and
more, served on a bed of injera. And let’s talk about Gebremichael’s injera — soft, spongy flatbread with a slightly tangy kick, perfect for scooping up all these delicious stews. Its an authentic Ethiopian dining experience in the unlikely setting of an Italian deli.
1004 17 Ave. S.W., 403-454-3354, scozzafavasdeli.com, @scozzafavasdeli
AT ROC’S GRILL
If you can’t beat winter, might as well join the ice party with some halo-halo. I get my fix from Roc’s, which has mastered the art of this Filipino treat. Think shaved ice piled high with sweet beans, banana, jackfruit and colourful jellies, then topped with flan, a scoop of ice cream and — wait for it — a sprinkle of crunchy cornflakes. Don’t stare at it too long, though — unlike the snow piled up outside, this dessert melts fast, so dig in!
9, 285 Shawville Blvd. S.E., 403-891-5158, rocsgrill.ca, @rocsgrillyyc
AT BANANA LEAF TROPICAL CUISINE
When the cold has me craving comfort, I head straight to Banana Leaf for the Malaysian seafood laksa. I go for the yellow noodles, but, if you’re a vermicelli fan, you do you, boo. One thing we can all agree on: laksa is the answer to our winter woes. This bowl of warmth, with its creamy coconut milk and bold curry spices, feels like strolling down the sun-drenched streets of Kuala Lumpur. After just one slurp, your taste buds will be begging for their Malaysian passport. Whether it’s Hainanese chicken, curry beef, veggie or fishball laksa, each bowl brings its own unique kick that’ll warm you from the inside out.
3330 32 St. N.E., 403-450-3880, @bananaleafyyc
AT SABOR A PERÚ
Let’s keep the global flavour tour going, shall we?
Tucked inside the Avenida Food Hall and Fresh Market, Sabor’s ceviche is a real showstopper. Picture tender chunks of white fresh fish marinated in zesty lime juice, perfectly balanced with the kick of red onions and cilantro. It’s bright, refreshing and full of flavour, the kind of dish that makes you feel like you're lounging at a seaside café
in Miraflores, watching the waves crash against the cliffs, rather than navigating your way on icy roads. With every bite, you get that citrusy pop and a little heat, making this ceviche an absolute must-eat when you’re craving a taste of Peru. 12445 Lake Fraser Dr. S.E. (inside Avenida Food Hall and Fresh Market), 825-712-5522, saboraperucalgary.com, @saboraperucalgaryyc
Chè is a Vietnamese dessert that’ll pull you out of your winter funk faster than you can spin your tires driving down Deerfoot. Most Vietnamese spots whip up their own “traffic light” chè — red, green and yellow jellies with fruit and coconut milk. But the real showstopper is the durian chè from Chè Bống. Loaded with fresh durian, jackfruit, lychee and homemade jellies, it’s like a beach party in your mouth. Light, refreshing and packed with bold flavours, this dessert will have you forgetting about slippery roads and dreaming of dipping your toes in the ocean.
103, 108 3 Ave. S.W. (inside Five Harvest Plaza), 403-474-1175, chebong.com, @chebongyyc
Otie bakehouse is located in the BLVD building, just west of Stampede Park, and has been serving up sweet treats since it opened last summer. It might not scream “tropical escape” at first, but, when you’re in a winter deep-freeze, sometimes a little sweetness is just what you need to get you through the day. Enter the Piña Colada tart — so beautifully crafted, it looks like an actual coconut. One bite of that coconut mousse with a few lashings of pineapple gelée and you’ll forget about shovelling snow for a while. And the space? It’s so stunning, you’ll want to stay until spring. I love the bold blue accents in the ceramic tiles and the exposed pipes and polished concrete, which create a sleek, modern vibe. If you like Piña Coladas and not getting frostbite, this tart is your perfect match.
1225 Macleod Tr. S.E. (inside BLVD Beltline), 587-393-1989, otiebakes.com, @otiebakes
AT THAI SIAM
Thai Siam’s lip-smacking skewers are a lifesaver when you’re craving a break from the cold. Whether you choose pork or chicken, these beauties come with the perfect char on the outside, locking in all the juicy goodness that makes them seriously addictive. They’re served with a spicy tamarind sauce that’s next-level good. Tangy, a little sweet and packing just the right heat, it hits all the right notes. It’s the ultimate street food you’d find sizzling on a grill in Bangkok. Pro tip: pair them with the green papaya salad to eat like a true local. 15, 4127 6 St. N.E. (inside Starr Distilling Co.), 403-680-0366, thaitakeout.ca, @thaisiammarket
Women’s heart attack symptoms differ from men’s, and often go unrecognized. A Calgary-based partnership aims to change that.
Every 16 minutes, a woman in Canada dies from a heart attack or stroke.
Heart disease and stroke are leading causes of premature death in Canadian women, yet half who experience a heart attack have their symptoms go unrecognized.
Women in Canada are less likely than men to receive treatment and medication, or to get them in a timely way, and because of this difference, women are more likely than men to die in the year following a heart attack.
Canadian cardiac electrophysiologist and researcher Dr. Roopinder K. Sandhu knows these statistics well and is working to change the odds for women. She leads a Calgary team that’s making strides in women’s heart health awareness, treatment and research.
“Because women have been underrepresented in research, there's been a delay in discovery,” explains Sandhu.
“That's resulted in heart disease in women being underrecognized, underdiagnosed and undertreated.”
How to recognize a heart attack for women. Remember: CHEST PAIN
C - chest pain, discomfort, tightness or pressure — the most common symptom
H - heartburn or indigestion and stomach pain
E - extreme fatigue
S - shortness of breath, lightheadedness or dizziness
T - tightness or pain in one or both arms, neck, jaw, shoulder or back
P - paleness, sweating and cold sweats
A - anxiety or feeling of impending doom
I - irregular heartbeat or palpitations
N - nausea or vomiting
Experiencing signs of a heart attack? Here’s what to do: SAVE
S - seek help immediately. Call 9-1-1.
A - assess the symptoms and recognize the signs. Learn what they are in advance.
V - verify if the person is allergic or intolerant to ASA (Aspirin). If not, have them take either one 325 mg tablet or two 81 mg tablets.
E - ease the person into a comfortable position. Rest and wait, either by sitting or lying down.
Sandhu specializes in heart rhythms, and she’s developed a particular interest in women with heart rhythm disorders. Her current focus is the link between female-specific risk factors and the development of atrial fibrillation, a common abnormal heart rhythm that’s associated with an increased risk of stroke, heart failure and death.
Dr. Sandhu and her team are working with Calgary Health Foundation on exciting initiatives to address existing knowledge and care delivery gaps in women’s cardiovascular health in Southern Alberta. The aim of the work will be to offer more firsts in women’s cardiac healthcare, ensuring comprehensive care for women throughout their lives in a way that is innovative, evidence-based and patient-focused.
To support more firsts in women’s cardiac health, donate here:
“We have a lot of work to do,” Sandhu says. “What we're trying to do is overcome decades and decades of the underrepresentation of women in research, and that'll take time and progress.”
About Calgary Health Foundation: Calgary Health Foundation is a community-based charity raising funds to advance healthcare across our city. We find opportunities to invest in excellence across the entire healthcare system and offer more firsts for care providers and patients, all to enhance outcomes and improve lives. givehealth.ca
ost home fitness spaces are tucked away, usually in the basement, but Rob Ohlson, president and owner of Maillot Homes, put his on the top floor, hosting group workouts and yoga classes for friends, family and co-workers, who then get to indulge in the deluxe spa-style bathroom connected to the gym.
Ohlson and designer Reena Sotropa of In House Design Group designed the bathroom with multiple users in mind. A walk-through, locker room-style laundry area (with hooks, storage, and a washer and dryer) leads to the serene space, with a trough-style sink and expansive steam shower. White tile and oak millwork combine to create a clean, relaxing vibe. “It feels like you’re actually at a spa,” says Ohlson. “It makes you want to be healthy — it’s a good example of how architecture and thoughtful design can encourage people’s behaviour.”
Since the space has no windows, the builder and designer used strategic materials and finishes to keep it from feeling dark. “The curbless shower with full-height glass and simple floating millwork allows for the light to travel to the far extents of the room,” Sotropa explains.
Ohlson adds that the lack of natural light can be advantageous. “You can control the mood through the level of lighting, and point out specific features,” he says, noting the backlit round mirror as an example.
Of course, some privacy is required, so there’s a separate water closet. Wrapped in a metallic-gold monster-printed wallpaper, it’s a little room with a big personality. “It’s otherwise a fairly monochromatic, soft space, so we wanted to have a little surprise in there,” Sotropa says. The delightful detail shows how intentional and welcoming this home is — from the living areas to the gym to the tiniest bathroom space. It’s a place meant to be shared, Ohlson says. “It’s for everybody. That’s the point.”
The water closet wallpaper is “Monster Family” by French design house Pierre Frey. “We chose it to reflect the light and create a warm glow, which juxtaposes the spare white wall tile,” says designer Reena Sotropa.
“We used the shadows to our advantage; we added wall-washing lights behind the mirror and below the floating vanity to accentuate the irregular texture of the wall tile,” says Sotropa. The lighting can change from vibrant and bright to soft and spa-like with a flick of a switch.
This space is a one-stop wonder for all post-workout needs, including dealing with sweaty clothes. “Gym clothes don’t even need to go down to the main laundry room,” Sotropa notes.
BY ALYSSA HIROSE
Public steam rooms can be relaxing, sure, but a home steam shower large enough to stretch out in, was homeowner and builder Rob Ohlson’s dream. “It’s just more comfortable to lay down,” he says.
Need help figuring out what school is best for your child? Whether it’s learning a second language, university prep, pursuing a passion or individualized programs to support specific learning needs, this guide will help you discover Calgary's many specialized education options to help your child succeed. One of the most comprehensive listings of Calgary schools, this guide provides a big-picture look at the private and charter school options in the city, as well as specialized programs available through local school boards. See what’s available to best meet your family’s education needs and goals.
West Island College prepares students to be bold, brave and ready.
Grade 7 at West Island College (WIC) is more than just the start of junior high — it is an important year of growth and self-discovery. As a university preparatory school, WIC helps students embark on an exciting journey filled with inspiring learning experiences, both inside and beyond the classroom.
Beyond academics, students can pursue their personal passions and develop their knowledge in other areas of interest through innovative option courses. “WIC offers a wide variety of options for students to enrich their learning experience and how they see the world,” says Cindy Martin, WIC’s visual arts specialist
and fine arts learning leader. WIC also promotes handson learning opportunities that bridge classroom knowledge with real-world applications. The Institute Program connects students with industry professionals, helping them to develop their passions while fostering community engagement and offering a broad spectrum of experiences.
In Grade 7, students take French or Spanish as a second language. For those who studied French in elementary school, WIC also offers a continuing French Immersion program. “Learning another language enhances cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills and cultural awareness,” says Rachel Kruchten, WIC’s dean of French immersion and international languages.
Grade 7 students also take art, band and drama, fostering an early passion for fine arts. “The enrichment that the arts bring to a young mind is invaluable,” says Martin. “It teaches discipline and commitment, but also strength of character.”
WIC is proud of its 100 per cent post-secondary acceptance rate, reflecting its commitment to developing well-rounded students ready to take on the future.
Learn more at wicyyc.ca.
• English and French Immersion Programs
• Second Languages: French and Spanish
• Fine Arts: Visual Arts, Performing Arts and Band
• Student Success Centre for Physical, Emotional and Academic Wellness
• Unique Options: Aerospace, Greenhouse, Musical Theatre and More
• Institute Program: Nurturing Student Passions Outside the Classroom
• 40+ Leadership, Club and Extra-Curricular Opportunities
• Outdoor Education Program
• Athletic Program: Nine Interscholastic Sports
• Wolves Den Hub: State-of-the-art Fitness Facility
• NEW! Full-sized Athletic Field for Rugby, Soccer, Field Hockey and More
STS students learn beyond the classroom with a globally recognized curriculum and make meaningful connections along the way.
Middle school can be a tricky time as students learn to become more independent. Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (STS) offers middle school programs with unique learning experiences that ensure students are engaged and have the support to succeed now and in the future.
“At STS, we help students uncover what matters most to them — what sparks their curiosity, drives their ambition and gives their lives direction,” says the head of school, Dr. Carol Grant-Watt. Here are four reasons to choose STS for middle school.
learning languages, arts and design as they do math, science and social studies, all while gaining a global perspective, strong communication skills and a drive to make a difference in the world.
With a 220-acre outdoor campus, including a pond, athletic facilities and glass-walled classroom in the woods, STS immerses its students in nature. When they’re inside, students take advantage of dedicated studios, a full-size theatre, innovation labs and various other spaces designed to challenge the traditional and enhance learning experiences.
The team at STS ensures every student is fully supported in their learning, social and emotional needs. Teachers, learning strategists and counsellors meet weekly to track student progress and create tailored programs for students who may benefit from additional support.
STS fosters friendships through co-curricular activities, school trips and athletics. With over 90 co-curricular activities, students choose from what inspires them and build bonds with other students with similar interests. Middle school grades can also participate in international exchange
North Point School for Girls gives girls a safe environment to challenge themselves and build academic and social skills for bright futures.
Girls develop, grow and mature differently than boys, which means they learn differently, too. North Point School for Girls celebrates these differences and offers a learning environment designed to help each girl reach her potential.
“Our girls know that they have a team of teachers who are there to guide, support and challenge them every day,” affirms principal, Jenny Davidson.
In an all-girls environment, girls take more risks, ask more questions and allow themselves to fail forward.
North Point helps its students to build confidence in themselves, develop healthy relationships and be prepared for life’s challenges, especially in a world with social media.
“It is our job to equip girls with the confidence, resilience and selfrespect to overcome social pressures — understanding that selfworth does not come from likes, followers or online friends,” says Kim Pirie, founder and board chair of North Point Schools.
North Point School for Girls caters to the way girls learn and communicate. Following the Alberta Program of Studies, the school’s programming is also driven by the girls’ curiosities and passions, with courses and workshops covering topics including design, yoga, dance and theatre.
North Point also encourages students to explore subjects that girls may be less inclined to choose, giving them more options when they graduate.
Financial Education teaches financial literacy and entrepreneurship while STEM Education offers hands-on learning in areas such as designthinking, 3D printing and robotics.
This specialized programming and dedicated support culminates to an ideal learning environment for girls. “Our commitment to girls' education combined with our relational approach to teaching and learning ensures our girls feel seen, heard and celebrated,” says Davidson.
Learn more at northpoint.school/school-for-girls.
Calgary Academy sets students up for success both in school and in life.
Calgary Academy instills a lifelong love of learning in its students, by providing a caring and inclusive environment focused on developing the whole child.
“Calgary Academy allows students to explore their passions, develop practical skills, and apply their learning in meaningful ways. Our educators utilize innovative teaching strategies to provide engaging and personalized learning experiences,” says Irina Dart, director of admissions at Calgary Academy.
Students at Calgary Academy gain real-world experiences that foster
to Grade 12 school, it offers four academic programs — Academy, Collegiate, Early Years, and Blended+ — designed to meet diverse learning needs and preferences.
The Early Years program builds strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, and instills a love of learning. For senior students, the optional Blended+ program provides a flexible, hybrid learning model, tailored to individual learning styles.
Integrated Studies further inject passion-based learning into students’ lives. They can choose courses that include drama, music, foods and culinary arts, sports medicine, international languages and more. Through these programs, students can delve deeper into areas of personal interest and build skills that will support them throughout life.
“From a strengths-based approach, we empower students to overcome challenges, build confidence and reach their full potential,” affirms Dart.
AP=Advanced Placement, CBE=Calgary Board of Education, CCSD=Calgary Catholic School District, ES=Educational Support, FS=FrancoSud School Board, GATE=Gifted and Talented Education, HPAD=High Performance Athlete Development, IB=International Baccalaureate, PSD=Palliser School Division, STEAM=Science, technology, engineering, arts and math, TLC=Traditional learning centre
Bishop McNally High School
bishopmcnally.cssd.ab.ca Bishop O’Byrne High School
Canada Skills Academy, IB, an internationally recognized enrichment program, and more
bishopobyrne.cssd.ab.ca Bowcroft School
Bowness High School HPAD Pathway for student athletes, AP
Calgary Academy
Calgary Classical Academy
NAME
Calgary French & International School Immersive French and international oppportunities, IB
Calgary
Calgary International Academy
Calgary Islamic School Akram Jomaa Campus
Calgary Islamic School Omar Bin Al-Khattab Campus
Calgary Jewish Academy Jewish religion, culture and heritage
Calgary Montessori School
Calgary Quest School
Calgary Waldorf School
Canyon
cfis.com
Don Bosco School Observation Class, ESI
Dr. E. P. Scarlett High School
Dr. J. K. Mulloy School
Eastside Christian Academy
École de la Rose sauvage Francophone language and culture
École de la Source Francophone language and culture
École du Nouveau-Monde Francophone language and culture
École La Mosaïque
Francophone language and culture
École Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix Catholic, Francophone language and culture
École Sainte-Marguerite-Bourgeoys
École Terre des Jeunes
Emily Follensbee School
language and culture
eastsidechristianacademy.ca
larosesauvage.francosud.ca
lasource.francosud.ca
nouveaumonde.francosud.ca
lamosaique.francosud.ca
ndp.francosud.ca
smb.francosud.ca
terredesjeunes.francosud.ca
Exceptional/complex needs K-9 CBE school.cbe.ab.ca/school/emilyfollensbee
Ernest Manning High School AP and more 10-12 CBE school.cbe.ab.ca/school/ernestmanning
Eugene Coste School
Father James Whelihan School
Hockey Canada Skills Academy
Father Lacombe High School AP, ESI and more
Father Scollen School ESI, learning enhancement
fatherlacombe.cssd.ab.ca
Halpern Akiva Academy
Holy Child School
Holy Cross School
Holy Trinity School
Horizon
Ian Bazalgette School
James Fowler High School
Janus Academy
Joane Cardinal-Schubert High
John Costello Catholic School
John G. Diefenbaker High School
Killarney
school.cbe.ab.ca/school/ joanecardinalschubert
johncostello.cssd.ab.ca
Rundle
Rundle
Sir Wilfrid Laurier School TLC
St. Albert the Great School Starting Points program
St. Alphonsus School ESI, ESIII, fine arts
St. Ambrose School Learning enhancement and development programs, Hockey Canada Skills Academy and more K-9
St. Anne Academic Centre Online Learning, outreach program
St. Anthony School Congregated Complex Needs
St. Augustine School Fine arts, ESII K-9
stalphonsus.cssd.ab.ca
stambrose.cssd.ab.ca
stanthony.cssd.ab.ca
staugustine.cssd.ab.ca
St. Benedict School Spanish bilingual, ESII K-6 CCSD stbenedict.cssd.ab.ca
St. Bonaventure School Hockey Canada Skills Academy, Spanish bilingual and more 7-9 CCSD stbonaventure.cssd.ab.ca
St. Boniface School Hockey Canada Skills Academy K-6
St. Brigid School ESII K-9
St. Clare School ESII K-6 CCSD
St. Cyril
St. Francis High School Spanish Bilingual, Italian language and culture and more 10-12
St. Gregory School Hockey Canada Skills Academy 7-9
St. Helena School Hockey Canada Skills Academy, ESI, ESII
St. Hubert School ESI
stboniface.cssd.ab.ca
stbrigid.cssd.ab.ca
CCSD stfrancis.cssd.ab.ca
CCSD stgregory.cssd.ab.ca
sthelena.cssd.ab.ca
sthubert.cssd.ab.ca
St. Isidore School Online Learning 1-9 CCSD stisidore.cssd.ab.ca
St. James School ESII, Transitions program, Hockey Canada Skills Academy K-9 CCSD stjames.cssd.ab.ca
St. Jean Brebeuf School Hockey Canada Skills Academy, Italian language and culture, congregated gifted 7-9 CCSD stjeanbrebeuf.cssd.ab.ca
St. Jerome School ESII K-6 CCSD stjerome.cssd.ab.ca
St. John Henry Newman School Hockey Canada Skills Academy and more K-9 CCSD cardinalnewman.cssd.ab.ca
St. John Paul II School Spanish bilingual K-6 CCSD stjohnpaul2.cssd.ab.ca
St. John XXIII School ESII, Spanish bilingual (Junior High) K-9 CCSD stjohn23.cssd.ab.ca
St. Joseph School Transitions program K-9
CCSD stjoseph.cssd.ab.ca
St. Jude School ESII K-6 CCSD stjude.cssd.ab.ca
St. Margaret School Spanish bilingual K-9 CCSD stmargaret.cssd.ab.ca
St. Marguerite School ESII
CCSD stmarguerite.cssd.ab.ca
St. Maria Goretti School
St. Mark School
St. Matthew School
St. Monica School Next Step transitional program (behavioural program)
St. Philip School
St.
Rupert
St. Stephen School
St.
The restaurant scene in the Alberta Rockies is on a roll right now with new spots to check out, new menus to try and new hope in the wake of the Jasper wildfires.
ven with wildlife laying low for the winter season, there’s something stirring in the mountains these days. The dining options in our Rocky Mountain towns have steadily improved over the last
decade, as innovative chefs move in and both locals and tourists demand world-class Canadian fare. The past months have seen new openings and delicious initiatives in the world of mountain dining, with meals designed to complement the spectacular views.
John Gilchrist claims to be mostly retired, but that hasn’t stopped him from pursuing delicious food in the mountains — the illustrious local food writer and restaurant critic recently released his latest project, an eight-episode TV program called Cuisine of The Rockies. The series sees Gilchrist travelling from Jasper to Whitefish, Mont., stopping to chat with chefs about their takes on mountain food along the way. Cuisine of the Rockies is currently streaming on Tubi, Roku and Distro TV.
A chapter closed on Banff Avenue in 2023 when the owners of Ticino — an Italian fondue restaurant that had been a Banff staple since 1974 — decided to retire. Creative Restaurant Group, which is also behind Bonterra and Posto in Calgary, purchased the former Ticino. After an extensive renovation, the space reopened this past summer as The Fat Ox, an elegant Italian restaurant that takes full advantage of the building’s ample frontage and sunroom, creating a new place to see and be seen on Banff’s busiest street.
Much more than a Bonterra clone in the mountains, The Fat Ox specializes in “alpine Italian,” with a menu overseen by Creative’s executive chef, Glen Manzer. A good portion of the menu is seasonal and subject to change regularly, but expect high-end Italian ingredients like imported burrata, 30-month-aged prosciutto and really good olives, paired with
mountain-inspired dishes such as elk meatballs and bison bolognese. The emphasis on service is high — guests blissfully get their wine orders delivered while still considering the menu — in an effort to appeal to both tourists out on the town and locals looking for a special dinner. And, since it’s adjacent to the High Country Inn hotel, there’s Italian breakfast, too. 415 Banff Ave., Banff, 403-762-3848, fatoxbanff.ca, @fatoxbanff
A grand old mountain lodge can still learn new tricks. Since Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts acquired the Post Hotel in Lake Louise in 2021, the dining room has retained its Old-World European charm — and award-winning wine cellar — while embracing the modern standard of partnering with local food producers to give guests a uniquely Canadian experience.
Last year, the Post initiated a partnership with Weiss Ranch of Medicine Hat, with the family-run ranch providing whole Black Angus, wagyu and mixedbreed cattle to its restaurant. Throughout the winter and early spring, the Post will continue to offer special Weiss cattledriven menus (dependent on availability) while also hosting a series of wine dinners bringing together this top-tier Alberta beef with selections from some of the wine team’s favourite regions and vineyards. For the ultimate luxury foodie experience, pair dinner with a spa treatment featuring a rejuvenating caviar lift facial.
200 Pipestone Rd., Lake Louise, 403-522-3989, posthotel.com, @posthotelspa
Following the trend of big, chain restaurant locations closing and making way for local independents, Banff Social opened early last summer in a spot on Bear Street long occupied by the Saltlik steakhouse. Chef Raj Nandamudi previously worked with Sunterra Market, but he longed for a place of his own — and who wouldn’t want to live and work in the mountains?
While so many Banff restaurants focus on a relatively narrow definition of “Canadian cuisine,” Nandamudi wanted to create a restaurant to reflect Canada’s multiculturalism. With more than 250 seats spread over two floors, the
restaurant is massive, allowing large groups to walk in without reservations.
Nandamudi makes sure that in addition to the global influences that shine through in dishes like Alberta lamb kebabs, maple miso-glazed salmon, and gochujang wings, the restaurant offers vegetable-driven choices as well as the burgers and game meats Banff visitors have come to expect. Banff Social also lives up to its name, with a lengthy cocktail list and live music nights.
221 Bear St., Banff, 403-762-2467, banffsocial.ca, @thebanffsocial
hen wildfires ravaged Jasper last summer, some feared the entire town would be wiped out. But, many resilient businesses have reopened as visitors began to file back into the townsite in early September.
WJasper has always had an eclectic collection of restaurants and hotels — it’s a little grittier and more down-to-earth than the Banff townsite, which is part of its charm and gives Calgarians a reason to make the drive up the Icefields Parkway. Local favourites like Evil Dave’s Grill, De’d Dog Bar and Grill, and Lou Lou’s Breakfast and Pizzeria were among the first restaurants to reopen in Jasper, with more re-emerging throughout the fall. Many of the muchloved establishments closer to the path of the fire, such as Syrahs and L&W, sustained more devastating damage, with some promising to rebuild and come back later in 2025 while others may be potentially gone forever.
But among the more encouraging news is that Jasper even has one completely new concept that opened in September, less than two months after the fires. The Maligne Range is the sister distillery to the heavily damaged Jasper Brewing Co., which is expected to reopen this spring. The Maligne Range not only creates unique mountaininspired whiskies, but also features a meat-centric restaurant and guided tasting sessions, and promises to be a new go-to destination in Jasper.
604 Connaught Dr., Jasper, 825-422-5022, themalignerange.com, @themalignerange
Omakase has become a popular trend in sushi restaurants around the world and the Japanese version of a chef’s tasting menu has made its way to Banff Hospitality Collective’s fun Japanese restaurant Hello Sunshine. The fourcourse menu changes regularly, with in-house chefs creating dishes on the fly from the freshest and most compelling ingredients on hand.
The omakase requires full-table participation and the kitchen declines substitutions, so this isn’t a good bet for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. But it does showcase Banff Hospitality Collective’s dedication to bringing next-level contemporary dining to Banff. With Lupo — which appeared on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list in 2023 — upstairs from Hello Sunshine, and the much-applauded Bluebird Woodfired Steakhouse just around the corner, this new experience is yet another step in Banff’s growth as a culinary destination. 208 Wolf St., Banff, 403-985-7225, hellosunshinebanff.com, @hellosunshinebanff
While Alberta and most of B.C. are not part of Michelin’s restaurant stars system, the new Michelin Keys program, designed to honour outstanding places to stay, awarded “keys” to several hotels in Western Canada this past September. While the keys aren’t culinary-specific, the service and amenities in a hotel contribute to its overall evaluation. One-key designations — signalling a “very special” stay — were awarded to the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, as well as CRMR’s Post Hotel in Lake Louise.
BY LISA KADANE
A new wine-forward program at The Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff uncorks a new era for the iconic mountainside property.
nside Eden Restaurant’s show cellar at The Rimrock Resort Hotel, cellar master sommelier Robert Irving uncorks and pours four wines. He pairs each bespoke pick with a small bite and stories about the vintage — a 2006 Charles Gardet Champagne that’s a perfect opener, for example, or a 2016 organic pinot noir from Frey Vineyards. Not only is the new Cellar Experience an intimate introduction to The Rimrock’s extensive wine library (that currently includes 17,000 bottles and 900 labels), it’s a jumping-off point into the resort’s culinary scene. “It’s a wonderful way to draw people in, enjoy the cellar environment, and taste some food and wine,” Irving says.
The Cellar Experience is also one of the first programs under the hotel’s new ownership and
management. Oxford Properties Group added the Banff mainstay to its Canadian portfolio in June 2023, and hospitality company Accor is operating the 333-room property located on the flanks of Banff’s Sulphur Mountain. Oxford and Accor are planning a top-to-bottom renovation that will refresh the luxury brand and improve its environmental sustainability. They’re also committed to building on The Rimrock’s three decades of culinary excellence and innovation, a pedigree that has shaped upscale dining in the Bow Valley.
Leading the way is Eden, a five-diamond restaurant that serves globally inspired dishes created by sous chef Miroslav Halamicek and executive chef Sebastian Brand. The team looks far and near to source quality ingredients, from Icelandic Arctic char to Black Apron beef from Alberta, then plates
them in delicious and creative ways.
The results are beautiful dishes served over four- or seven-course fixed, wine-paired dinners; in a dining room with panoramic windows overlooking one of Banff’s best views. Be sure and raise a glass between every bite — the sommelier chooses wines that enhance the food and highlight what’s in the stemware, and collaborates with the culinary team to get the pairing just right.
“Achieving this balance is central to our philosophy,” says assistant maître d’ and sommelier Julien Morissette, who runs the Cellar Experience and chooses wine pairings, alongside Irving.
As the sun sets behind the mountains, each sip and bite becomes a celebration of The Rimrock’s dedication to elevating the art of fine dining — an experience as sublime as the view.
For more than 50 years, the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre has connected Calgary to the world.
By Olivia Piché
From time immemorial, Indigenous Peoples have gathered at the confluence where the Bow and Elbow rivers meet to learn, trade and connect. Committed to reconciliation, the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC) continues this legacy and aims to reflect and carry on this history, ultimately amplifying Calgary as a meeting place for inspiring connections.
The early vision for the CTCC was a connected convention centre — literally and figuratively. Established in 1974, it was the first purpose-built convention centre of its kind in Canada; it could host thousands of people for any given event. With access to the Plus 15 network and the buildings around it, the CTCC served as a launching point for visitors to explore Calgary.
Given the size of the city at the time and the uncertainty of demand as one of the first convention centres, the CTCC opened with a capacity of approximately 2,500 people. In 1979, the centre hosted the Calgary Foundation’s Million Dollar Dinner, Canada’s most successful charitable dinner at the time, confirming the initial beliefs in the CTCC’s potential. In the ’90s, the CTCC began construction on its north building. Today, its largest room can host up to approximately 4,000 people.
The CTCC has long been ahead of the curve, and today, its modern initiatives continue to
model the way for other civic gathering spaces. Having recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, the convention centre has built a reputation for being a leader in sustainability, accessibility, inclusivity and reconciliation.
The CTCC consults with Indigenous leaders as the original stewards of the land, like Blackfoot Elder Sheldon First Rider, to uphold its responsibility to share the truths of history and create space for knowledge sharing. Elder First Rider helps illuminate cultural significance and incorporate traditional stories at the CTCC. “When we start to have this kind of dialogue with the world that comes here, maybe that will help them understand their needs and their responsibilities when they go home,” says Elder First Rider. With the help of the CTCC, visitors explore the city and learn about where they stand and the history of the land. “They have access to the beauty of the Blackfoot territory. It allows them to understand not just our affection, not just our love, but our need for each other to heal each other,” says Elder First Rider. “We can establish a relationship
with those coming into Calgary to let them know it’s not just Calgary; it’s a place where we gathered too.”
Walking through the halls, rooms and spaces at the CTCC, it’s clear that the possibility of connection has always existed here. The centre shares stories of its own history, like supporting the festivities during the XV Winter Olympic Games in 1988 and being Alberta’s largest COVID-19 vaccination site in 2021. The CTCC has always been a place for community and connection, and its legacy will continue for years to come.
The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC) welcomes locals and visitors, creating a more vibrant Calgary.
By Michaela Ream ° Map illustration by Mateusz Napieralski
Located on the edge of the Culture + Entertainment District in Calgary, near East Village and Stephen Avenue, the CTCC is more than its physical space. It stands as a premier destination for experiencing Calgary’s energy, award-winning restaurants, and lively arts and culture scene, as well as a bridge between different sectors, organizations and communities across the city and beyond.
From turnkey to customized gatherings, the CTCC turns blank canvases of possibility into events that contribute to Calgary's vibrancy.
“Our commitment to community extends beyond the events and experiences happening inside the building,” says Kurby Court, CEO and president of the CTCC. “We recognize our impact reaches beyond our four walls to embody the diverse perspective of the people we collaborate and connect with worldwide.”
Visitors to Calgary don’t have to go far from the CTCC to find places to stay or things to do. The centre is physically connected to the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel, Fairmont Palliser and Hyatt Regency Calgary, which collectively offer over 1,100 hotel rooms to extend any visit. Also connected to the CTCC is the JR Shaw Centre for Arts & Culture (formerly the Glenbow Museum), one of Western Canada’s largest art and history museums. All this and more can be accessed from the CTCC via the Plus 15 network, a unique enclosed skywalk connecting over 16 kilometres of pathways to dozens of buildings throughout the downtown core directly from the CTCC. Stephen Avenue is also steps away, offering a host of awardwinning restaurants, boutique shopping, live entertainment and vibrant galleries. An LRT station on the centre’s north side leads to further destinations around the city.
As a connector, the CTCC further encourages guests to explore its surrounding neighbourhood and local businesses. The CTCC’s Love Your Lanyard program allows delegates to sample some of downtown’s dining options with exclusive deals at local partner restaurants.
It’s this dedication to community collaboration that has led to lasting partnerships between the CTCC and local organizations. Three of the CTCC’s long-standing clients, the Art Market Craft Sale, Inn from the Cold and GeoConvention, have brought communities together, sparked conversation and celebrated connection in the heart of Calgary.
Over the CTCC’s 50-year history, the Art Market Craft Sale has been its longest client, celebrating 38 years working together in 2024. Each year, the arts and crafts market welcomes thousands of people to the CTCC to view,
experience and engage with local art and artists from across Canada.
“Having our show at the CTCC has had a remarkable impact on our legacy and success,” says Nichole Windblad, owner, director and producer of Art Market Craft Sale. “The professionalism, level of service, aesthetics and adaptability have allowed the Art Market to grow each year and provide immeasurable value to the artists that come from across the country every year.”
In 2018, the CTCC partnered with Inn from the Cold to amplify the organization’s programs aimed at homelessness prevention and diversion, emergency family shelter and supportive housing.
“Being in the heart of downtown Calgary, [the CTCC] offers an accessible, central venue that feels both prestigious and welcoming,” says Jennifer English, director of philanthropy and campaigns at Inn from the Cold. “The venue’s
flexibility and state-of-the-art facilities allowed us to create a customized and first-class experience for our guests and tell the story of our impact on families in our community. [The CTCC] has given us a platform to engage with more donors, deepening our community connections and expanding our reach.”
GeoConvention, an annual conference and technical exhibition focusing on efficient energy exploration and production, has partnered with the CTCC for over 10 years. Each year, the GeoConvention and the CTCC provide hundreds of people with the chance to network, share knowledge and contribute to the geoscience community.
“The CTCC has provided a meeting spot for GeoConvention for over a decade, helping to
host nearly 3,000 attendees and 100 exhibitors annually with a full program of 300+ talks and 100+ posters,” says Dustin Menger, executive director of GeoConvention Partnership. “[The CTCC] has allowed the conference to connect our geoscience community continually and effectively in ever-changing unique ways and to grow continually.”
The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC) is an inclusive place for the meeting of the minds.
By Olivia Piché ° Photographs by Jared Sych
We are the vessel for conversations that may have never happened until everyone entered the room.
Kurby Court, CTCC president and CEO
For decades, the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre has been the host for inspiring ideas and change-making conversations. The CTCC believes that such transformational connections can only happen when everyone can participate. As such, sustainability, accessibility and inclusivity initiatives are foundational pillars of its approach to hosting.
“We are the vessel for conversations that may have never happened until everyone entered the room,” says CTCC president and CEO Kurby Court. “That is the responsibility of the convention centre. At the end of the day, we need to serve as a ripple effect in the community to create a positive and lasting change.”
In 2022, the CTCC became Green Key certified, reflecting its excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable practices. But sustainability is nothing new to the convention centre. The CTCC was Alberta’s first building to gain BOMA’s Go Green certification in 2005, a nationally recognized commercial sustainability certification program.
The CTCC puts efforts into reducing electrical consumption, using solar panels and low-flow water fixtures, recycling and waste reduction, which includes sustainable food practices. “It's part of being a good citizen in the community, but we’re also trying to model the way forward,” says Court.
The CTCC is a space for everyone and in 2023, the centre partnered with Pedesting, a local company that created an innovative app designed to map out accessible navigation. With Pedesting, the journey is a little easier for visitors of all ability levels. The app pinpoints accessibility services within the CTCC and around downtown Calgary, like where to find elevators, ramps and accessible washrooms, and helps users gain confidence in getting from point A to point B.
“[The partnership] sends the message to the community that everyone is welcome,” says Nabeel Ramji, co-founder and CEO of Pedesting. “People of all walks of life can come and be themselves and be comfortable. It’s a space designed to work for everybody.”
Ramji also reviews all major capital projects at the CTCC through a lens of accessibility. One of the CTCC’s recent improvements is a fully accessible all-persons washroom in the north building. This new washroom includes multiple call buttons and sensors for emergencies,
an adult change table, enough space for the turning radius of current power wheelchairs and many other thoughtfully designed details.
“The CTCC is really going above and beyond,” adds Ramji. “They understand how truly important accessibility and inclusivity are. They don’t avoid the work needed for solutions, and they make the effort to make the space one for everyone.”
More than physical expansions and improvements, this partnership has opened the door to conversations within the CTCC team. It’s provided an opportunity for the staff to better engage in discussions with guests around accessibility — suggesting Pedesting as a resource, asking if there are any other needs they can assist with and always being aware of “who’s in our house,” explains Court.
The recent addition of one of Calgary’s most accessible washrooms is only one step toward an ongoing legacy. The CTCC has always held a heartfelt commitment to creating an inclusive space, its reputation on this front will continue to grow, modelling the way for more inspiring moments.
Court says that over the years, Calgary has entrusted the CTCC to host impactful conversations, and for the next 50 years, the CTCC will continue to do just that, in the same respectful and trailblazing fashion as it has always done so. “It’s about remembering what it takes to have those connections happen and how to make the collision of conversations easier, safer and more comfortable for all persons.”
People of all walks of life can come and be themselves and be comfortable. It’s a space designed to work for everybody.
Nabeel
Ramji, co-founder and CEO of Pedesting
Behind every successful event and the CTCC’s long-standing reputation is an incredible team. The CTCC has played host for decades, and so have many of its legacy employees. “If you don't have the people, then you just have four walls,” says Court. “We have exceptional people who've been delivering incredible service for over 50 years.”
Here, a few CTCC legacy employees share their thoughts.
“There is always something that challenges us to think outside the box. Our teams are incredibly collaborative, and this synergy drives innovation and excellence in everything we do.”
“The energy, the buzz of activity and witnessing the connections being made [excite me]. There’s a sense of pride seeing our team and partners connect to create memorable events.”
“I’ve had the opportunity to connect with so many diverse talents, which has allowed me to grow in many verticals. I love that the convention centre allows me to connect with so many different people.”
“The camaraderie among the CTCC team [is exciting]. Each person believes in creating the best and smoothest-run events of every kind daily, and I know I can count on everyone and they me. It’s a great team to be on.”
Lisa Massier specialist, capital and support services, with the CTCC for 38 years
Tammy Dowell event manager, with the CTCC for 32 years
Rob Babin director of HR and OH&S, with the CTCC for 25 years
Randy Kennedy OH&S coordinator, with the CTCC for 23 years
For more than 45 years and counting, Edo Japan serves up delicious Teppanyaki cuisine to Calgarians with an unwavering commitment to quality and community.
In 1979, one of Canada’s first fast-casual, Japanese-inspired restaurant franchises planted its roots right here in Calgary at Southcentre Mall. On a mission to share Japanese flavours and foster a strong community connection, Reverend Susumu Ikuta, a Buddhist minister, started Edo Japan, where many Calgarians experienced Teppanyaki for the first time. Now, forty-six years later, the thriving franchise continues to be loved for its distinctive sizzle by Canadians coast to coast, with more than 200 locations serving over 11 million meals a year.
As one of Calgary’s only Teppan-style restaurant options in the late ’70s, Edo Japan stood out in the food court. With cooks combining the delicious flavours of fresh vegetables and proteins seared to perfection on a Teppanyaki grill and topped with Edo Japan’s signature teriyaki sauce right before you, Calgarians immediately took to the Edo Japan concept. In 1981, Edo Japan expanded to Edmonton. After franchising in 1986 and an ownership change in 1999, Edo Japan rapidly expanded, opening its first street-front restaurant in 2002 in Calgary and celebrating 100 locations in Alberta in 2011.
“Since day one, we have been committed to serving freshly made meals crafted from the highest quality
ingredients,” says Dave Minnett, president and CEO of Edo Japan. “Over the years, we have continuously refined and elevated our menu, enhancing our offerings and modernizing both our store and ordering experience to align with our guests' evolving tastes and preferences.”
Edo Japan’s diverse menu has grown to include fresh sushi rolls, flavourful ramen soups and a selection of bubble teas. Customers come for Edo Japan’s distinct and delicious Japanese flavours in menu items, new and old. The love for original dishes, like Teriyaki Chicken and Sukiyaki Beef, remains steadfast.
"Our signature teriyaki sauce has remained a beloved staple of the Edo Japan experience for 45 years. It’s more than just a sauce; it’s an iconic part of our story,” says Minnett. “Our guests have developed a special connection with this sauce — so much so that many describe themselves by the number of scoops they prefer: one, two or even three!”
As Edo Japan moves forward, its commitment to the community and sustainability grows. Edo Japan has partnered with local food banks across
Canada since 2010, raising over $1 million through its annual holiday giving campaign. Additionally, in collaboration with ChopValue, Edo Japan has recycled more than 148,000 chopsticks for use in furniture and other products.
Edo Japan also looks to deepen its connection with loyal customers by refining its loyalty app and using customer feedback to guide future innovations. “The future of Edo Japan is bright and full of opportunity,” says Minnett. “Our growth plans for 2025 and beyond are focused on deepening our connection with loyal customers, reaching new guests and communities, and supporting our franchise partners in their continued success. As we expand, we’re also committed to evolving our menu to reflect changing tastes and enhancing our store designs to create an inviting, modern experience.”
The Edo Japan franchise model has earned the company 14 consecutive awards from the Canadian Franchise Association. Edo Japan plans to expand throughout the country, into the Maritimes, and is open to exploring opportunities in new regions, such as expanding into the U.S.
This continued growth and future-forward thinking speaks to Reverend Ikuta’s original vision, which remains at the heart of Edo Japan — to sustainably support and bring together the community with authentic and enjoyable Japanese flavours.
page 86 Real Wedding Story: one couple's Western celebration to remember
page 92 Best Wedding Services Ballot: 2025 Winners and Runners-up
page 104 Where we wed: Best Venues
BY MICHAELA REAM
A CELEBRITY CHEF AND HER HUSBAND KICK UP THEIR HEELS WITH A W ESTERN-INSPIRED, DEFINITELY DELICIOUS WEDDING DAY.
heir introduction was straight out of a Hallmark movie (or, more accurately, an episode of Melrose Place) — a man and a woman reside in the same four-plex building; she in a front unit, he in a back unit. He had to walk past the front yard of her unit to get access to his. This is how Keith Serre, safety, health and operational risk
Tleader at Deloitte, first encountered Connie DeSousa, Top Chef Canada finalist and coowner of Charbar and CHARCUT restaurants, back in 2016.
The duo were then properly introduced (most definitely matchmaking instincts were at play) at their building’s AGM. A year later, in 2017, they had their first date at Cassis Bistro. The rest, they both say with a laugh, “is history.”
DeSousa and Serre had both previously been married and had daughters (DeSousa one, Serre two) from those relationships, so the idea of getting married again didn’t initially come up. However, as time passed, the couple began to discuss the idea of tying the knot. Unbeknownst to DeSousa, Serre had already bought a ring.
On Dec. 16, 2022, Serre proposed in the same corner seats at Cassis where they had
“BEINGBORNANDRAISED A CALGARIAN,I’VEALWAYS LOVEDSTAMPEDEAND THOUGHTITWOULDBEA SPECIALTIMETOGETMARRIED ANDTOHAVEOURFAMILY ANDFRIENDSPARTICIPATE
INALLTHINGSSTAMPEDE.”
CONNIE DESOUSA
their first date. For DeSousa, saying “yes,” was as easy as loving Serre.
With the wedding set for the summer of 2024, the couple wanted to incorporate their shared love of Western culture and celebrate the city where they met and fell in love. And what better way to do that than a Stampede wedding?
“Being born and raised a Calgarian, I’ve always loved Stampede and thought it would be a special time to get married and to have our family and friends participate in all things Stampede,” DeSousa says.
The ceremony was on the rooftop terrace of DeSousa’s East Village restaurant, Charbar, and the bride and groom both wore cowboy boots. Rather than a traditional ceremony with a hired officiant and scripted vows, DeSousa and Serre opted for a more personal and familial approach — complete with a special surprise planned by DeSousa. As Serre waited at the end of the aisle, instead of DeSousa appearing, it was award-winning Canadian country singer Paul Brandt, who, with guitar in hand, started playing “My Heart Has a History.”
Serre says that moment was the most memorable for him, especially as a long-time Brandt fan. “I don’t get surprised
“ITWASEVERYTHINGWE WANTEDOURWEDDINGTO BE,FROMTHEINFORMAL CEREMONYTOONEBIG STAMPEDEPARTYATTHEEND, ITWASALLPERFECT."
CONNIE DESOUSA
that often, but, right then, I was quite surprised. I’ll remember that for years,” he says.
As DeSousa made her way down the aisle, Brandt played “I Do,” an ideal song to celebrate their union, as well as an homage to DeSousa’s parents, who, a few years ago, had Brandt on hand playing the same song while they renewed their vows after 38 years together.
The ceremony was officiated by Serre’s best friend, Jason Tucker, and DeSousa’s friend and business partner, John Jackson, whose words inspired laughter and happy tears.
The reception took place inside Charbar, and, as you might expect of an event designed to celebrate a chef, the food was a focus.
Stations around the room allowed guests to make their own tacos, sample nachos, visit an oyster bar by Eric Giesbrecht of Meta4 Foods, and explore the wall of cupcakes and cookies by Stephanie Henry of Hey Sugar. The star of the spread, however, was a new spin on a classic wedding cake. Rather than the traditional pastry, DeSousa and Serre had a multi-tiered savoury “cheese cake” — made of cheese wheels provided by Isaac Bignell of Say Cheese Fromagerie and garnished with flowers. The cheese layers waterfalled down to an eight-foot-long charcuterie board put together by DeSousa’s Charbar team.
Surrounded by friends and family, good food and a late-night pizza order, it was the ultimate Western wedding. “It was everything we wanted our wedding to be,” says DeSousa.
“From the informal ceremony to one big Stampede party at the end, it was all perfect.”
Five years ago, we decided to show some love to the local businesses and service providers that help make weddings happen — 2020 was a tough time, after all, for those whose livelihood was wrapped up in bringing people together to celebrate. So, we launched an online ballot for our readers to nominate and then vote for their favourites in categories
that range from bridal attire to wedding bands (both the ring kind and the musical kind), then published the results. Since then, the Avenue Best Wedding Services Ballot has remained an annual tradition, and a celebration of those who help us celebrate. Here are this year’s winners and runnersup, listed in the order of most votes received.
BY TKSHOTZ
BRIDAL PARTY ATTIRE
WINNER
Park & Fifth parkandfifthco.com @parkandfifthco
RUNNERS-UP
Adorn Boutique adornboutique.ca @adorncalgary
The Bridal Centre bridalcentre.com @thebridalcentre
Durand Bridal durandbridal.com @durandbridal
David's Bridal davidsbridal.com @davidsbridalcalgary
GROOM/ GROOMSMEN ATTIRE
WINNER
Atelier Suiting atelierbyensemble.com @ateliersuiting
RUNNERS-UP
Atelier Munro ateliermunro.com @ateliermunro
Ed Williams Mens Wear ewmw.ca @ewmenswear
Harry Rosen harryrosen.com @harryroseninc Indochino indochino.com @indochino
AWINNER
Blush & Raven
blushandraven.com @blushandravenyyc
RUNNERS-UP
Durand Bridal durandbridal.com @durandbridal Lovenote Bride lovenotebride.com @lovenotebride
Blissful Bridal blissfulbridal.ca @blissfulbridal.yyc
The Bridal Boutique Calgary thebridalboutique.ca @thebridalboutiqueyyc
WINNER
Devoted To You Artistry devotedtoyouartistry.com @devotedtoyouartistry RUNNERS-UP
Hair & Makeup By Robin hairandmakeupbyrobin.ca @hairandmakeupbyrobin_ Shimmer & Glow
shimmerandglowmua.com @shimmerandglowmua
Blush & Coco blushandcoco.com @blushandcocobrides
Emilia Beauty Art emiliabeautyart.com @emiliabeautyart
WINNER
Joanna Bisley Designs joannabisleydesigns.com @joannabisleydesigns RUNNERS-UP
SoulEssence Keepsakes soulessence.ca @soulessence.keepsakes
Adorn Boutique adornboutique.ca @adorncalgary
Durand Bridal (Tie) durandbridal.com @durandbridal NVR NUDE (Tie) nvrnude.com @nvr.nude.jewellery
Cinder & Sage cinderandsage.com @cinderandsage
Located in the spectacular Canadian Rockies and just a 3-hour drive from Calgary, Fernie is an authentic boutiquestyle wedding destination.
Plan your memorable day at one of Fernie’s scenic locations, with the convenience and expertise of local wedding professionals.
WINNER
Body by Chai bodybychai.com @bodybychai
RUNNERS-UP
Knickers ’N Lace knickersnlace.net @knickersnlace
BraTopia bratopia.ca @bratopiastore
La Vie en Rose lavieenrose.com @lavieenrose Cream Lingerie creambodyandbath.com @creamlingerie
WINNER
Sapphire Studio Ltd. sapphire-hair.ca @sapphirestudioltd
RUNNERS-UP
Devoted to You Artistry devotedtoyouartistry.com @devotedtoyouartistry
RJ Styles Co. rjstylesco.com @rjstylesco
Hair & Makeup by Robin hairandmakeupbyrobin.ca @hairandmakeupbyrobin_
Blush & Coco blushandcoco.com @blushandcocobrides
WINNER
E.V. Stenroos evstenroos.com @evstenroos RUNNERS-UP
NVR NUDE nvrnude.com @nvr.nude.jewellery
Spence Diamonds spencediamonds.com @shopspence Alberta Diamond Exchange abdiamond.ca @adx_diamonds Calgary Jewellery calgaryjewellery.com @calgaryjewellery
NAILS
WINNER
MetroPolish17 metropolish17.com @metropolish17
RUNNERS-UP
Esmé Beauty Boutique esmebeautiful.com @esmebeautiful Uptown Nail Boutique & Spa uptownnailboutique.com @uptownnailboutique
Distilled Beauty Bar distilledbeautybar.com @distilled_beautybaryyc Butter Beauty Parlour butterbeautyparlour.com @butterbeautyparlouryyc
WINNER
Tkshotz Photography
tkshotz.com @tkshotz
RUNNERS-UP
Sue Moodie Photography suemoodiephotography.com @suemoodiephotography
Valerie Richer Photography valricherphotography.com
@valricherphotography
Bray And Nat brayandnat.ca @brayandnat
Blair Marie Photography blairmariephotography.com
@blairmarie
BY
Hi Tech Productions focuses on transforming spaces and transporting guests through creative technology, fluid lighting and personally curated music
Imagine today is your big day; it may be your wedding, an important corporate event or a celebration with friends and family. But, instead of being greeted by a simple room with tables, chairs and some décor, guests are transported into a winter wonderland with tranquil snow trickling down the walls or an underwater world where fish swim through rippling waves. It sounds like a dream, but it’s not. This transportive display of lighting is called projection mapping and is what Hi Tech Productions, an entertainment and DJ company, specializes in creating.
business because of the technical side. I wanted to cure my appetite of merging my artistic design capabilities with my technical aptitude,” says Dan McNeil, coowner of Hi Tech Productions. “Now it’s more because it is amazing to see the impact you have on people’s events and lives.”
Since opening in 1992, Hi Tech Productions has focused on two key elements: creating lasting memories and turning regular days into extraordinary experiences. To do just that, McNeil and his team push the boundaries of technology and incorporate event lighting design, such as projections and visual effects that acts as or becomes an integral part of the décor. Additionally, Hi Tech Productions works with clients to find the perfect fit.
“We believe a DJ should be picked specifically for you, particularly for weddings” says McNeil. “For example, if one person is from an Italian background and
the other Latin, your DJ should have experience in those cultural backgrounds and music. If we don’t have the right DJ available, we simply don’t take the booking.” That, McNeil says, has been the key to their success for over 30 years.
For McNeil, lighting is one of the most important aspects of what they do at Hi Tech Productions because of its ability to be fluid, not static.
“When it comes to lighting, many people use it as an accent, like up lighting. Often in one colour only, but it can do so much more. Dynamic lighting can make northern lights appear and change colours, or we can turn a formal lounge into a rustic barn or have moving scenes like fireworks for a first dance, all at the flick of a switch,” explains McNeil. “We transport guests and couples to whole new spaces through the use of
colours and transitions.”
Popular requests in the past have included projection-mapped cakes, which use a white or plain cake to project images, texts or moving pictures. Customized digital textures, sparklers, low-lying fog and holographic DJ systems are also popular requests. Across weddings, corporate events, anniversaries and more, McNeil says his favourite events have been the hours and work donated for events including the Boys and Girls Club and the Airdrie Health Foundation. These events offer the most creative and rewarding freedom in giving back as much as possible. “As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to give back to the community,” says McNeil. “Simply put, we love what we do and take the utmost care in doing it.”
WINNER
Kakes & Kanvas kakesandkanvas.com @kakesandkanvas
RUNNERS-UP
Black Dog Bakery blackdogbakery.ca @blackdog_bakery Chartier chartieryyc.com @chartieryyc
Bake My Day bakemydaycalgary.com @bakemydayyyc Pretty Sweet Co prettysweetco.com @prettysweetyyc
WINNER
Chair Flair Inc. chairflair.ca @chairflair
RUNNERS-UP
Modern Rentals modernrentals.ca @modernrentals.ca
Rori Ranch Rentals roriranchrentals.ca @roriranch Silva Designs silvadesigns.ca @silva_designs
Coven Creative (Tie) covencreative.ca @coven.creative Special Event Rentals (Tie) calgary.specialeventrentals.com @specialeventrentals_calgary
WINNER
Snap Beauty Photo Booth snapbeautyphotobooth.com @snapbeautyphotobooth
RUNNERS-UP
Pure Portrait Photobooth calgaryphotobooth.ca @pureportraitbooth
Peace Candle Co. peacecandle.co @peacecandle.co
Our Lavish Guests ourlavishguests.com @ourlavishguests
The Sugar Cube sugarcubeyyc.com @sugarcubeyyc
WINNER
Seeking Light Studio seeklinglightstudio.com @seekinglightstudio
RUNNERS-UP
Paper + Petals
hollylovespaper.ca @hollylovespaper Red Fox Multimedia redfoxmultimedia.com @redfoxmultimedia Lovesky Design loveskydesign.ca @loveskydesign Kenzie May Co kenziemayco.com @kenziemayco
WINNER The Romantiks theromantiks.com @the.romantiks
RUNNERS-UP
Flowers by Janie flowersbyjanie.com @flowersbyjanie
Little Daisy Florals littledaisyflorals.com @littledaisyflorals
Small Flower Floral Studio smallflower.ca @smallflowerfloralstudio
Sweet Bloom Floral Design sweetbloom.ca @sweetbloomfloraldesign
WINNER
The Prosecco Cart Inc. proseccocart.ca @theproseccocart RUNNERS-UP
Sugar Water Events sugarwaterevents.com @sugarwater.bar
The Wildflower Wandering Bar thewildflower.ca @the.wildflower.bar
Olive & Twist Mobile Bar oliveandtwistmobilebar.com @oliveandtwistmobilebar
Suds & Sodas Mobile Bar sudsandsodas.com @sudsandsodas
WINNER
Christifer Duxbury Dance Collective cddancecollective.com @cddancecollective
RUNNERS-UP
Free Spirit Dance freespiritdance.ca @freespiritdnc
Dancesport MD dancesportmd.ca
Arthur Murray Dance Studio arthurmurraycalgary.ca @arthurmurrayyyc
Decidedly Jazz Danceworks decidedlyjazz.com @decidedlyjazz
WINNER
Vows by Judy (Judy Wiltse) vowsbyjudy.ca @vowsbyjudy RUNNERS-UP
JP Weddings (Jane Paterson) jpweddingsyyc.com @jpweddingsyyc Jacqueline Hoare lifecelebrant.ca
Tamara Jones weddingsbytamara.com @tamarajuju Married by Cole (Cole Hofstra) marriedbycole.com @marriedbycole
WINNER
Stephen Cleaners stephencleaners.ca @stephencleanersinc
RUNNERS-UP
Fishman’s Personal Care Cleaners fishmans.ca @fishmansyyc Ingenuity Couture @ingenuitycouture
Anna's Alterations annasalterations.ca @annas_alterations
Mari's Bridal marisbridal.ca @marisbridal
WINNER
MORE Events Co moreevents.ca @moreeventsco RUNNERS-UP
Lottie Weddings
lottieweddings.com @lottie.weddings
Evanescents Wedding Planning & Design evanescents.ca
@weddingsbyevanescents
The Blondie Bride theblondiebride.com @theblondiebride
Fiore Fine Events fiorefineevents.com @fiorefineevents
MORE EVENTS USED SOFT CANDLELIGHT, LUSH FLORALS AND TOUCHES OF CREAM, BLUSH AND GREENERY TO CREATE AN ELEGANT HEAD TABLESCAPE AT THE MALCOLM HOTEL.
THOUGHTFUL. ELEGANT. CREATIVE.
Together, we will create an authenic & unforgettable wedding celebration as unique as your love story.
3 reasons to have Big T’s cater your Big Day
1
We look after everything - from drinks & serveware to coffee and dessert.
2
With gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan options, we have choices to accommodate any party.
3
Your groom (and guests!) will love you even more for it!
Planning, Design & Coordination moreevents.ca | info@moreevents.ca Your dream wedding starts here.
WINNER
Cool Sax’n’Keys coolsaxnkeys.com @coolsaxnkeys
RUNNERS-UP
The Frontiers
wearethefrontiers.com @thefrontiersyyc Jesse Peters thejessepeters.com @thejessepetersmusic
Uptown Strings uptownstrings.com @uptown.strings
Matt Blais (Tie) mattblaismusic.com @mattblaismusic One Nite Band (Tie) oneniteband.com @oneniteband
WINNER
Devour Catering devourcatering.com @devourcateringyyc
RUNNERS-UP
Fork + Farm Catered Events forkandfarmcatering.com @forkandfarmyyc
Big T's BBQ & Smokehouse bigtsbbq.com @bigtsbbq
Brie & Banquet Wild Catering Co. brieandbanquet.com @brieandbanquet Food Works Craft Catering food-works.ca @foodworksyyc
DJ OR AV SERVICE
WINNER
Hi Tech Productions hitechproductions.ca @hitechyyc
RUNNERS-UP
EZ DJ ez-dj.ca @ezdjyyc
Split Circuit Sound splitcircuitsound.com @splitcircuitsound Revolution Entertainment revolutiondj.com @revolutionentertainmentcompany
Pez Productions pezproductions.ca @pezproductions
CATCHING THE PERFECT MOMENTS ON A BRIDE AND GROOM'S BIG DAY EARNED CLOVIS PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY BEST VIDEOGRAPHER ACCOLADES.
WINNER
Clovis Photography & Videography jeffclovis.com @clovisphotoandvideo
RUNNERS-UP Tkshotz Productions tkshotz.com @tkshotz Castaño Films castanomedia.com @castanofilms
Bray and Nat brayandnat.ca @brayandnat
Love & Lore Films (Formerly String Lights Films) loveandlorefilms.com @loveandlorefilms
BY SHELLEY ARNUSCH
The “where” is often the “why” when it comes to getting married: for many couples, the transition from happily engaged to setting the date is inspired by finding and booking the perfect venue. Here, then, are the top vote-getters when it comes to our
favourite spaces in and near Calgary to celebrate a wedding, from smaller spaces for intimate events, up to expansive halls that can accommodate extensive guest lists, plus outdoor venues and uniquely beautiful venues, too.
hile the name might suggest an old-school edifice, the interior of this inner-city Victoria Park venue skews more modern-industrial-chic than traditional. The 7,000-square-foot space includes two
lounges for each of the members of the wedding couple to use for private preparation space, as well as an 1,800-square-foot private patio for everyone to enjoy. thebrownstoneyyc.com @thebrownstoneyyc
RUNNERS-UP Venue 308 venue308.com @venue308yyc Fairmont Palliser Alberta Ballroom fairmont.com/palliser-calgary @fairmontpalliser Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo Enmax Conservatory calgaryzoo.com/host-an-event/venues @thecalgaryzoo The Lake House lakehousecalgary.com @thelakehouseyyc The Pioneer thepioneeron8th.com @thepioneeron8th Azuridge Estate Hotel azuridgehotel.com @azuridge The Gem thegem.ca @thegem.ca Alloy alloydining.com @alloydining The Commons thecommonscalgary.com @thecommonsyyc Lougheed House lougheedhouse.com @lougheedhouseyyc
RUNNERS-UP
Fairmont Palliser Oak Room fairmont.com/palliser-calgary @fairmontpalliser
Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant bvrrestaurant.com @bowvalleyrancherestaurant
Flores & Pine floresandpine.com @floresandpine
Deane House deanehouse.com @deanehouseyyc
The Garret Loft thegarretloft.com @thegarretloft Charbar charbar.ca @charbar_yyc
Mainspace (Tie) mainspacecanmore.ca @mainspace_canmore
River Café (Tie) river-cafe.com @rivercafeyyc
The Opera Room at Teatro teatro.ca/private-events @teatrorestaurant
Lougheed House lougheedhouse.com @lougheedhouseyyc
UNIQUE VENUE WINNER
ith a variety of beautiful event spaces for groups of all sizes, the Calgary Zoo is much more than a place to go and gaze at animals.
Recently renovated Grazers is an intimate space at the heart of the zoo compound, with floor-to-
ceiling windows, cedar decor elements and a private licensed patio that make it an ideal spot for a smaller wedding. calgaryzoo.com/host-an-event/venues @thecalgaryzoo
RUNNERS-UP
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo Safari Lodge calgaryzoo.com/host-an-event/venues @thecalgaryzoo
The Malcolm Hotel malcolmhotel.ca @malcolmhotelcanmore Hudson oliverbonacini.com/event-venues/hudson/ @hudsonyyc Hotel Arts hotelarts.ca @hotelartsyyc
Carriage House Hotel & Conference Centre (Tie) carriagehouse.net @carriagehouseyyc Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire Wildrose Ballroom (Tie) sheratonsuiteseauclaire.com @sheratoncalgary
Heritage Park Gasoline Alley heritagepark.ca @heritageparkyyc Willow Lane Barn willowlanebarn.com @willowlanebarn
The name alone conjures up images of royal fêtes and glittering gowns, though this classic room, which can accommodate up to 320 guests, is just as likely to host those clad in rancher’s attire. Even so, the historic and ornate space, recently restored to its original glamour, remains one of
the most-coveted and beloved spots to celebrate a wedding in high style, with a foyer area, 13 crystal chandeliers hanging from a gilded ceiling, full-length windows hung with luxe draperies and a fireplace to keep things cozy. fairmont.com/palliser-calgary @fairmontpalliser
Sheraton Cavalier Calgary Hotel sheratoncavaliercalgary.com @sheratoncav Cochrane RancheHouse cochraneranchehouse.ca @cochraneranchehouse
From your first vision to your first dance, start your journey to forever in style.
Book your wedding with the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre.
At the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, we have decades of experience in planning weddings at the most unique location in Calgary. With an award-winning culinary team, wildly unique venue spaces, and a dedicated staff to provide an all-inclusive experience, we pride ourselves on making every couple’s dream vision a reality. Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration or a big party, we know how to make your wedding day unique, and a day you and your guests will never forget!
For more information, visit www.CalgaryZoo.com/weddings Make your wedding day as unique as your love story
ugging up against the banks of the Bow, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is ideally situated for those seeking an outdoorsy wedding experience in the heart of the city. The Asia Lawn & Tent, set up on the grassy 3,570-square-foot expanse within the zoo compound, can host up to 300 guests and provides a “wilder” backdrop for an outdoor ceremony, as well. calgaryzoo. com/host-an-event/venues @thecalgaryzoo
RUNNERS-UP
Azuridge Estate Hotel (Tie) azuridgehotel.com @azuridge Deane House (Tie) deanehouse.com @deanehouseyyc Gathered thegathered.ca @the.gathered Meadow Muse Pavilion meadowmuse.ca @meadowmuseyyc Rouge Restaurant rougecalgary.com @rougerestaurant Flores & Pine floresandpine.com @floresandpine Coutts Centre for Western Canadian Heritage couttscentre.ca @couttscentre Four Sisters Farm foursistersfarm.ca @foursistersfarmalberta Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel Rooftop marriott.com @calgarymarriott
8.23 PM INGLEWOOD
Above: Back lane, 1300 block, 9 Ave S.E.
Left: Inglewood Aquatic Centre.
Access Calgary’s best experiences with A-List.
From private dinners with top chefs to secret theatre tours, an A-List membership grants you behind-the-scenes access to Calgary’s best. Meet the creators, taste the flavours and explore hidden gems that only members can enjoy.
With limited memberships available, you’re not part of the crowd–you’re one of the select few experiencing the very best of Calgary.
Featured Experience Partners
Theatre Calgary
Blithe Spirit Opening & Dinner for Two at Teatro
Available Now
Theatre Calgary
Awowakii Opening & Dinner for Two at Teatro
Available Now
Fairmont Palliser – Hawthorn
A-List Dinner for Two Experience: Thursday nights in Feb and March
Available Now
Alberta Theatre Projects
An Evening of Fine Dining and Theatre: Dinner for Two at Charcut and Opening Night of King James
Available Now
Alberta Theatre Projects
An Evening of Fine Dining and Theatre: Dinner for Tswo at Charcut and Opening
Night of Liars at a Funeral
Available Now
