Spring 2011
a rural hip lifestyle magazine
SPRING A rural hip lifestyle magazine designed for the Foothills region, including: Black Diamond, High River, Longview, Nanton, Okotoks, Turner Valley.
into fashion
10garden centres
PM 41979554
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Foothills Real Estate www.c21foothills.ca ‘The Local Experts’
Serving the foothills area for all rural, residential, commercial real estate for buyers and sellers since 1977. Blair Gordon and his team of sales associates have daily contact with the market. The dedicated personnel aim to provide experienced service, to both buyer and seller that are fair and equitable. If you want the best in personalized real estate service from people who are looking out for your best interest, call Century 21 Foothills Real Estate.
Kirby Herr
Doug Gardner
Rhonda L. Anderson
Trish Seacrist
Wes Kunz
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Pat Colliton
Darren Metcalfe
Chad Gothard
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Breanne Bryans
Don Williams
Leeanne Villemaire
Jim McKibbin
Tim Jones
Cal Ellerby
Tannis Andrejcin
Thomas Stevenson
Tim Hemus
Marjorie Bird
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Susan West
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435 Charlotte Street W
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Santanna Thom
5312 49th Avenue
Claresholm
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Proudly serving SOUTHERN ALBERTA communities since 1977
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Have you missed biting into a crunchy apple? So did Gary – for 30 years!
“Having implants has changed my life!” Gary Loughery
al, 7. et. e, e.
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403-652-1111 Gerard Mercier DD.F.C.A.D. Evan Perkins DD Providing Denture and Dental Implant Solutions for 25 years.
“People pay more attention to the words coming out of your mouth when teeth aren’t falling out at the same time.”
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Leighton Art Centre routesmagazine.ca
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Features 14 Cover Story: Travelling Mabels
Longview’s Eva Levesque reveals the story behind the band’s name and the union of this fab trio.
10 Heartland
Find out more about this compelling family drama and why the cast has fallen in love with the series as much as their fans.
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Departments 23 Spotlight on Talent
12
CD: Sarah Troy Clark -Bragg Creek singer/songwriter Book: Beyond the Half Mile -The life of chuckwagon racing
20 Arts & Entertainment
Dinner theatre, film, family fun and so much music!
12 Activity Feature
Welcome spring by exploring 10 awesome garden centres
8 History
Okotoks’ Rotary Performing Arts Centre – 1907 to 2011
16 NEW! Experiment No 1: Gopher Alternatives
contents Spring 2011
24 NEW! Fashion
Spring fashion stylings from the boutiques of Okotoks
18 Professionally Speaking
Health Matters: Understanding Autism Pet Matters: Insight on pet vaccines
28 Food
Mahi Mahi Flourless Chocolate Cake Chef Feature: Stirr! Adventure in Food
32 Financial Column: Clearly for You RRSPs and beyond
34 Family: The Motherload Mothers unite in grocery store bubble gum war
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Spring 2011
a rural hip lifestyle magazine
36 Detours
5
14
Dreaming – Achieving On the cover: The Travelling Mabels photographed at Bar U Ranch, by Neville Palmer.
SPRING A rural hip lifestyle magazine designed for the Foothills region, including: Black Diamond, High River, Longview, Nanton, Okotoks, Turner Valley.
into fashion
10garden centres
PM 41979554
routesmagazine.ca
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A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” Editor’s Note
–Lao-tzu
N
ow that we've all made it through a long chilly winter, I suggest we get out and walk on fresh paths. Spring is such an exciting time of renewal, let routes lead and lift your spirits. For me, spring is not only about an abundance of tulips and the return of sufficient natural Vitamin D, it’s about filling up my diminished reserves with stimulating endeavours - this year specifically in fitness and social events. For example, I am planning to participate in the Turner Valley Triathlon. If this sounds appealing to you, why not come out and join me? You can be a part of Team Routes by “attending” on the Routes Facebook page. I am also excited to get my fill of the arts and entertainment scene by taking in some of the fabulous events taking place right here in the foothills. Getting out to the Leighton Art Centre sale is a must this May, and so is attending some live theatre at the newly opened Rotary Performing Arts Centre in Okotoks. If I can be so bold as to spur you on, I challenge you to make this the best spring ever! Start with one new piece to your wardrobe or a whole new look - check out the fashion pages for inspiration. Is there
From Our Readers
Spring 2011 Issue #10 Publisher Routes Media Inc. Executive Editor Sandra Wiebe Copy Editor Pat Fream Art Director Sharon Syverson Photographer Neville Palmer
some kind of fitness activity you’ve been dreaming of doing? Why not get started? Or maybe it’s not about fitness for you, maybe you are being called to join a new club, take up scrapbooking, or reconnect with an old friend you’ve been missing. Whatever it is, I find that spring is a great time for that single step. And along the way, maybe eat a little ice cream and …don’t forget your routes.
Sandra Wiebe Executive Editor/Publisher
Get updates on these stories and events or leave us a comment at the routes blog site at www.routesmagazine.ca
I have received your magazine on and off in the last couple of years and have always enjoyed reading it. What a lovely way to spend some down time, catching up on the fascinating people who live right in our back door. I felt a renewed sense of pride living in this part of Alberta. Your magazine is like catching up on friends and neighbours...from local celebrities to the neighbor talking about her family, to the little known gemsin our area. I look forward to the next issue, like getting an update on a friend who has been away for a few months. – Teri McInnis, DeWintion
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Congratulations on yet another great issue of “Routes”, one of the best magazines I have read. The magazine contains information on a variety of celebrities, local people and multiple topics of interest. One small request for your consideration - like many people my eyesight is not good and I experience difficulties in reading light coloured print, e.g., pale yellow, beige and light grey, etc. I am aware that your advertisers choose their own colours, but may I ask that you give consideration to other print in your magazine? Thank you. Keep up the good work!!! – Tilly Palmer, Okotoks
Contributors Pat Fream Sandra Wiebe Peter Worden Melissa Cofell Britta Kokemor Jaime Quinlan Advertising Rae Jamieson rae@routesmagazine.ca Routes Magazine 19 – 3 Ave. SE High River, AB T1V 1G3 Ph: 403.880.4784 info@routesmagazine.ca Subscriptions: 1 year: $14 2 years: $24 3 years: $36 Routes magazine is published seasonally, four times per year. We print 10,000 full colour, glossy copies. They are distributed throughout the foothills region of southern Alberta via Canada Post admail, local retailers and by subscription. We want to hear from you. Please post a comment on the weblog at www.routesmagazine.ca Printing by McAra Printing For permission to reprint articles, excerpts or photographs, please email info@routesmagazine.ca Copyright 2011 All rights reserved.
It occurred to me while thumbing through routes that it is what the New Yorker is to New York - all the hip, glad cultural events happening daily, weekly, monthly in our diverse lovely area. Thank you for keeping us on top of the art game! We are better people for it. –Lee Kvern, Okotoks
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Dresses For Every Occasion
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Reliable Service, Experience that Counts! Lorraine Boulton Realtor
(403) 601-6671 (direct line) lboulton@southernrealty.ca www.lorraineboulton.ca
Heartwood
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“Showing a unique array of art, gifts and decor.”
RE/MAX Southern Realty (403) 652-4020
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“Serving The Foothills Since 1989”
www.heartwoodafricangallery.com 2110 - 17th street Nanton, AB 403-646-2425 7
Entrepreneurial Support For Women www.buildingties.ca Routes Spring 2011.indd 7
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History Feature
WE RISE AGAIN
Oil painting original by Erica Neumann, Neumann Gallery & Studio, Okotoks
Once a vibrant United Church – now a celebrated arts venue,
the Rotary Performing Arts Centre in Okotoks rises to the occasion.
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or almost a century, the stately brick church, located on the corner of Elma Street and Centre Avenue in Okotoks, served as a gathering place for the Okotoks community; a place of worship and inspiration where music routinely filled the rafters. Although it is no longer a church, the historic landmark continues to be a gathering place for celebration and inspiration in its new role as the Rotary Performing Arts Centre. Purchased first by the arts council, the building was the subject of hours of planning, fundraising, and renovations, before the arts council donated it to the Town of Okotoks in April, 2005. Then, with further government funding for structural work, the newly named Rotary Performing Arts Centre opened its doors to the public and the performing arts community in late fall, 2010. While the Dewdney Players moved into their new home immediately with weekend performances of Sorry Wrong Chimney, the real grand opening of the Rotary Performing Arts Centre was a three-day celebration at the end of February. Foothill’s own Amos Garret, along with a multitude of local performers were on hand to bequeath the old church a grand new purpose.
Old Soul Roots
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The church building’s history dates back to the early 1900’s. In 1905, the Methodist congregation in the area voted to build a church in Okotoks. A lot on Elma Street was purchased from John Lineham, who also donated two more. The church was completed in December of 1906 at a cost of $5,100 with an official opening in April, 1907. While the Methodists were enjoying their new spacious church, a larger Presbyterian congregation was quickly outgrowing its small wooden church, St. Luke’s, located on McRae Street. Consequently, several years ahead of the nation-wide unification, the Okotoks Methodists and St. Luke’s Presbyterians united in 1917 to form the Okotoks United Church. For decades the Okotoks United Church held regular services; performed baptisms, weddings, and funerals; and was perpetually filled with the music and celebration of a vibrant congregation. But as the Town of Okotoks grew, the congregation of the United Church eventually found itself in the same situation the St. Luke’s congregation experienced 100 years earlier – it had outgrown its space. In 2002, members of the Okotoks United Church made the difficult decision to put their beloved church up for sale. All concerts are sponsored by the Okotoks Arts Council. Tickets for any of these performances are available for purchase at the Okotoks Art Gallery. 403.938.3204 www.okotoksculture.ca
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----------------
403-652-3222
#5, 609 Centre St. S., High River, AB, T1V 1V1 ----------------
403-995-0065
#1, 1100 Village Lane, Okotoks, AB, T1S 1Z6 ----------------
For New Members Only
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Exhilarating
Hikes
Moderate Nahahi Ridge (2-3 hours)
This hike is scenic and invigorating. To find the trailhead park in the Day Use Area of Forgetmenot Pond or Little Elbow Parking Lot (end of Hwy 66 west), then follow the path along the river past the campground, the trailhead is across the road on your right. Climb just to the end of the Nahahi Ridge – where the view is spectacular, or for more challenge, keep on going and climb Mount Fullerton.
Moderate Ribbon Creek (16.5 km, 7 hours) This popular hike includes several waterfalls, a lake and a campground. Head south on Hwy 40 toward Kananaskis Village, then right at the Ribbon Creek Day Use area.
27 Hole Golf Course with Full Practice Facilities CPGA Lessons Available / Golf Memberships Available Open to the Public / Tournaments Large or Small Photo by Neville Palmer
Moderate to Difficult
Blue Rock Creek (18 kms - 8 plus hours) Allow plenty of daylight and prepare to be wowed on this gorgeous intermediate hike. To find the trail, park in the Day Use Area at the Blue Rock Equestrian Campground west of Turner Valley. Follow the old logging road until you come to a clearing then access the trailhead on your right.
Difficult Elbow Loop (8.5 km, 4-5 hours) Photos by Iryna Moriyama
Conference Rooms up to 200 Guests Perfect for Meetings, Retreats, Seminars and Weddings Event Coordinator, Dawn Lockwood call 403-652-3644 ext 221
Foxes Den Restaurant Open Daily to the Public Happy Hour / Fine Dining / Private Parties Hours and Reservations call 403-652-3644 ext 227
For more information please call 403-652-3644 Or access our website at www.highwoodgolf.com
Bat Sheba GiftsGifts Bat Sheba
...your baby, bath, special occasion, kitchen gadgets of every description, Joan Richardson home decor and much, much more gift boutique!
652.3944 Come in and see our403. many new products arriving daily, Box 5130 High River, AB T1V 1M1 includingPOour exciting, 103 new Outdoor Living section. 3rd Ave SW 403.652.3944
103 3rd Ave SW
• batshebagifts@gmail.com
Begin at Paddy’s Flat Campground on Hwy 66. Once at the campground access road, follow it right and park in the lot on the left side of the road (before the sharp left that goes down to the river). The trailhead is marked on the right side of the road.
Not for the faint-hearted Indefatigable (7.2 km, 3-5 hours) This steep hike is strenuous but rewarding, with thrilling sights and spectacular views of both Kananaskis Lakes from the top. Begin at the North Interlakes Day Use Area at Upper Kananaskis Lake, located just off Kananaskis Lake Trail Drive. Walk across the dam and about 100m along the lakeshore trail until you see a pile of boulders. The trailhead is just on your right. * Check bear warnings! Sources: Trails.com / hikealberta.com / trailpeak.com
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Feature
The Heart of
HEARTLAND By Sandra Wiebe
Photos above courtesy of Heartland
Some of you may have grown up in a home where your family sat and ate dinner together and each member had a chore of clearing, washing or drying the dishes, or taking out the garbage. I was fortunate to have a large family with my father working close to home and my mother at home packing our lunches, waiting for us after school, and insisting we play outside even when it was 30 below.
A
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...For those of you to whom this all feels like a Norman Rockwell painting, there is Heartland on CBC.
s children, my brothers and I would try to rush through our Sunday night dinner (we never dared ask if we could eat in front of the TV) - it was time for The Wonderful World of Disney. Through the years, Sunday evening was always home to family night television. While on set interviewing a few of the cast members of the popular family drama, Heartland, I felt the ambiance of family resonating from my past memories of Sunday night family television. “We really are a family, there are so many things the viewers can relate to,” said 24-year-old Amber Marshall, who plays the lead part of Amy Fleming. Like most of the actors in the series, Marshall has been with the show since its beginning, four years ago. For the last two years she has been living in the Okotoks area, and last spring she purchased property where she now lives full time. “When I go to the grocery story people stop me and say that it’s really great (that I live here). I think it makes people in the area feel like they have more of a connection to the show and to me,” said Marshall. Marshall settled in the Okotoks area after spending the first few years filming for seven months of the year and then going home to Ontario to an uncertain job and to friends she hadn’t seen in a long time. She felt she was rebuilding her life every time she went home, and then having to put it on hold for filming season. “I love Alberta and this area, so I thought why not just build my life here and not put anything on pause.” Growing up, Marshall didn’t have any actors or politicians as role models; it was always those closest to her who had a direct influence on her life. “That’s why I enjoy meeting people and different fans because then I can have that same impact on them,” she said, adding, “It still takes me by surprise when anyone comes up to me and says ‘you do so amazing in Heartland, you’re my role model, or my daughters’ role model’.”
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Images by Corrine Graden One of High River's downtown streets was attracting a lot of attention during filming, not because of the actors, but also for the herd of cattle that was part of the scene, summer 2010.
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Heartland, based on a series of books written by Lauren Brooke, first aired on CBC in 2007. Set in the fictional town of Hudson, Alberta and partially filmed in High River, the producer, Michael Weinberg had originallyapproached the Town of High River to use its name as the town in the series.
We really are a family, there are so many things the viewers can relate to.” -Amber Marshall
Heartland publicist Gordon Imlach referred to Amber Marshall as the real deal, a real horseperson. “She is the face of Heartland.” Imlach said many people working on Heartland are ‘old hats’ in the industry and have never experienced such a rapid rise in a fan base before. Heartland’s Facebook fan page gains 250 new fans daily from around the world, ranging in age from 13 to 34. Eighty-eight per cent of those viewers are families. He says there is also a large senior viewership; he believes this could be due to the fact that there is little clean family stuff left on TV. “To be on a show that is so popular and has such a fan base, you know you are working on something kind of special,” said Imlach, who went on to share the touching story of how the Arizona Make a Wish Foundation contacted him to fulfill a dying child’s wish to meet Amber. Heartland airs on national networks in several countries, including France, Australia, Germany, Spain, Mexico, Norway and throughout South America and Africa. It has just received 94 per cent syndication in the United States where season one aired in October of 2010.
At the time of the interview, the cast and crew were wrapping up the finale for the fourth season. They were also on edge, waiting to hear if the show was going to continue for another season. “I think if we get a fifth season we can say this is the most successful show ever shot in Alberta,” said Imlach. They have filmed 67 one-hour episodes and one 2-hour movie. Heartland is filmed mainly in High River, but also on the 100-Acre Ranch near Millarville, Millarville Race Track, the Dude Ranch near Millarville, and on the studio set located in southwest Calgary. Imlach estimates that only 10 per cent of all series reach a fifth season, but just before Christmas, Heartland and its 26,000-plus Facebook fans, received the good news that there will be another season. Neither Marshall nor Graham Wardle (as Ty Borden and love interest of Amy) grew up watching heart-warming family television. Wardle believes that, in the face of so much reality TV, people want to watch real people and they want to connect to something real. “From the beginning I was proud to work on a show that wasn’t like anything else on TV. It was focusing on family values showing people growing up, learning lessons, and people being people and changing,” said Wardle. “I think that they cast the show very well, and the people that are part of the show do believe in the values, do believe in the stories, do believe in the characters. We try to tell the truths of those relationships and of those moments. Working with everyone on the set, we are like a tight knit family and I think it shows on screen.” A tight knit family is what actress Michelle Morgan (as Lou Fleming and on stage sister to Amy) was fortunate enough to have growing up. Now, when she’s not on set, she spends as much time as she can, giving back to the community through her work at women’s shelters. “It is a community’s responsibility to be the family to those who don’t have a family,” she said. Morgan’s character is pregnant in the show’s fourth season, but she is also pregnant for real; she will deliver her first child this spring. “I know my family enjoys the show. It’s got great characters and a nice variety of drama, comedy, romance and action. It’s got something for everybody.” Heartland has eight main characters with three others that are regulars, and of those, only two are from Alberta (Shaw Johnson and Doc Cardinal). “That is more of a comment to where you have to go to work as an actor, than the quality of actors in Calgary. They move to where the work is,” said Imlach. But while they are working in High River, you may catch a glimpse of them filming at Maggie’s Diner, or maybe jamming with the locals at Gitter’s Pub on a Tuesday night, making themselves at home here in the Heartland of Alberta. routesmagazine.ca
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Activity Feature
get growing Tickle your spring gardening fancy with a tour of the many marvellous garden centres located right in your area! You may be surprised to find some locations have gift shops and even cafĂŠs onsite, to enrich your return to nature.
Aspen Crossing Visit this highly specialized garden centre, featuring a wide variety of trees, shrubs, plants, flowers, garden tools and much more. Aspen offers full service landscape construction and maintenance for residential estates. Unique added features include an 1887 Pullman Rail Car converted to a year-round fine dining restaurant, and 85 full service campsites open in the summer. Find Aspen Crossing east of Okotoks in Mossleigh. www.aspencrossing.com Beaver Dam Nursery This small nursery specializes in trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, tropical plants, some supplies and some gardening ornamentals. Beaver Dam is located straight east of Okotoks on 370 Ave. 403.938.4394 Cattlemens Corner This seasonal garden centre opens in May and offers trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, bulbs, seeds, soil, rocks, mulch, pots and custom container plantings. Also a yearround livestock equipment and feed store. Cattlemens is located at 2117 - 25 St., Nanton. 403.646.2595 Country Living & Garden Centre Open year-round, Country Living sells pet food and livestock feed, and offers a variety of products and services for country landscaping and outdoor spaces. Country Living is located at the southwest corner of Hwy #7 and Southridge Dr., Okotoks. www.countrylivingokotoks.com
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Countryside Garden Centre and Landscaping Countryside specializes in award-winning landscape designs for residential and commercial sites. At the seasonal garden centre find prairie hardy plants, and a broad selection of caliper trees, potted trees and shrubs, hanging baskets and outdoor containers. The centre also sells garden supplies and garden accents. Located in the hamlet of DeWinton. www.csgcl.com
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Kayben Farms Kayben Farms features a garden centre, greenhouse, prairie fruit (u-pick and product order), as well as a café and a gift shop. Kayben also offers full service commercial and residential landscape design and construction, outdoor wedding packages, spring workshops, birthday parties, and more. Located at 314064 - 32nd Street E., Okotoks. www.kayben.com River Town Market Garden From asparagus to zucchini, you’ll find it all and you won’t find it any fresher than at this U-pick berries and vegetables garden located just past the Town of High River on River Road (12 ave SW). 403.652.2461 Spruce it Up Garden Centre This full service year-round garden centre offers trees and shrubs, seeds, bulbs, annuals, perennials, herbs, potted plants, custom baskets and more. It offers a variety of merchandise including, gardening supplies, bird supplies, outdoor fountains, furniture and planters. Spruce it Up also provides full landscape and design services, and seasonal gardening courses. Find Spruce it Up on the west side of Hwy 2A just south of Marquis of Lorne (Hwy 22x). www.spruceitupgardencentre.com The Saskatoon Farm The Saskatoon Farm features 50 acres of U-pick Saskatoon berries, a greenhouse with a vast array of plants, flowers, trees and shrubs, a large café, and an extensive gift shop including giftware, art, and furniture. The Saskatoon Farm is open year-round; hosts a variety of events, and can accommodate weddings, parties and corporate functions. The Farm is located northeast of Aldersyde, off Hwy 2. www.saskatoonfarm.com Vale’s Greenhouse Ltd. With six spacious greenhouses, a large perennial area and a shrub department, Vale's specializes in onsite grown annuals, perennials and basket stuffer plants. Vale's also offers planting seminars, printed and online gardening information and a year-round gift shop. Find Vale's at 301 - 3rd Street N.W., Black Diamond. www.valesgreenhouse.com
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Cover Story
er name is Mabel, and she’s a big ol’ blue tick hound dog with a voracious appetite for shoes, spaghetti, and sofas made of supple Italian leather. She has no notable qualities except the ability to plant her 100 pound torso on any unoccupied lap, and clear a plate of edibles – midstride – with just a quick sweep of her fluid tongue. If the connection seems obscure, it is, yet somehow this incorrigible canine is the namesake for the Travelling Mabels; an all girls musical trio that is enthralling music lovers across the province. “We all love Mabel, and we want to travel,” said Longviewbased band member Eva Levesque. “Put the two together and the name just seemed to fit.” The Travelling Mabels came together serendipitously in 2008, when all three women were in Winnipeg for the Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMA). Suzanne Levesque, on tour at the time performing bass and backup vocals for country music singer, Gord Bamford, was nominated for the CCMA Bass Player of the Year Award. Her mother, Eva, along with good friend and fellow singer/songwriter, Lana Floen, were on hand to provide support. At a party hosted by a record company there was an open mic session and the trio – Eva, Suzanne and Lana – got up and performed an impromptu (and unpractised) a cappella version of the Eagles song – Seven Bridges Road.
Chicks with Picks By Pat Fream Photos by Neville Palmer
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The Travelling Mabels delight music lovers with their original lyrics, impeccable harmony and unorthodox banter.
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We’re roots, we’re folk, some songs are pop, others come out sounding pure ass country.” The response, from a crowd of record executives, managers and other performers, was positive. The rest is history. The women named themselves after an unruly hound dog and have since written a variety of songs, produced two CDs, and played at numerous venues across Alberta. Eva and Lana play acoustic guitar; Suzanne (who has since left her gig with Gord Bamford to fully commit to the Mabels) plays bass guitar, and Eva adds harmonica to some numbers. Keith Floen, the band’s leader and manager, joins the trio playing keyboard on some occasions. Asked to define the band’s genre, Levesque shook her head. “Since we all write music and we’re all so different, you can’t really narrow our style into one or two categories,” she says. “We’re roots, we’re folk, some songs are pop, others come out sounding pure ass country.” Eva, a self proclaimed ‘earth mother’, and the most seasoned of the group, has been writing songs and singing for decades. She likes to write songs that tell a story. “I get my inspirations from life. Just look around you - everything is an idea for a song,” she says.”Sometimes you have an idea and it takes months to turn it into a song. Other times you wake up at two in the morning and it’s all there – words and music.”
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Left to right are Lana Floen, Suzanne Levesque, Eva Levesque in the kitchen of the bunkhouse at the Bar U Ranch, Longview.
Suzanne adds kick to the band with her country flair and an ear for pop. Lana’s style is what Eva calls “elegant”; she writes heartfelt ballads and brings polish to the group. Together the women perform a broad spectrum of songs ranging from poignant ballads (Let Me In), to an uproarious tune about some unscrupulous endeavours south of the border (Della’s Gentleman’s Club). Highlights thus far for the Mabels include being on stage with Ian Tyson (who wrote a song for the group to sing), opening for Prairie Oyster last July, and playing at the Big Valley Jamboree to a standing ovation. Last November the Mabels performed at the Blue Christmas Concert in Calgary put on by Rev Elvis and Friends. Along with their contribution of some crisp harmonic Christmas carols, the Mabels took to the stage and performed A Song for Spirit – with grade one and two students from Calgary Arts Academy. “We didn’t know what to expect,” said Eva, “but oh my god, we fell in love with those kids.” She added that the Mabels felt proud to be on stage singing back-up to the youngsters, who wrote the song as a fundraiser to help care for Spirit - a blind golden eagle. “With the kids on stage, and the eagle, and the hoop dancer, I had to close my eyes – it was just so spiritual I was getting all choked up.” With two years invested in the Mabels, and two CDs behind them, Eva said she is fully satisfied with the road she is on. “I know 150 per cent that this is what I’m meant to do. I get on stage and I just know this is where I’m supposed to be.” As for measuring the success of the Mabels, Eva takes a humble approach. “To me success is not about the money or having a guitar-shaped swimming pool. If every show we do, big or small, the people go away happy, that’s it – that’s my success.”
Eva Levesque resides in Longview, where for the past three years she has organized the Longview Music and Arts Festival (nicknamed Longstock).
“God I love Longview!
Three hundred and thirty people living there and when I went looking for volunteers for the festival, 29 people signed up!” she gushed.
“We’re like one big family - living in this unbelievably friendly town that is peaceful and beautiful!” routesmagazine.ca
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Feature
T N E M I R E P
EX
No.1
An Experiment In
Groundhog Alternatives By Peter Worden
To honour Groundhog Day in the foothills is not just unreliable, it’s zoologically illogical.
B
16
esides possessing no meteorological training, traditional Groundhog Day mascots Wiarton Willie (of Wiarton, Ontario), Spanish Joe (of Spanish, Ontario), and Shubenacadie Sam (of Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia) share another crucial omission – they live nowhere near the Alberta foothills. These faraway fellows are the Canadian offshoots of folkloric progenitor Punxsutawney Phil of a Groundhog Day epicenter – some 3,386 kilometers away – in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. If Phil sees his shadow on Feb 2, tradition has it he will return to his hole for six more weeks and so winter shall last. As foothills residents, the nearest rodent on whom we can base our springtime predictions is the loftily selfacclaimed “Prairie Prognosticator” Balzac Billy (from Balzac naturally), who, upon further inspection, is about as accurate in his annual hunch as other famed groundhogs, which is to say, only about half of the time. (A study by Canada’s National Climate Data Centre reported that in 13 cities over the past 40 years, the success rate of groundhog predictions was about 37 per cent – in other words, about the same as if we merely guessed and surely no better than if we consulted any other member of the order rodentia; the gopher, or for that matter, guinea pig, squirrel or agouti). For this experiment then, we go to expert animal folk – veterinarians, a petting zoo owner, an exterminator, a rancher and a professor of physics – to unearth an appropriate, adoptable alternative as a foothills tradition. Not surprisingly, the displaced and otherwise not-much-loved Richardson’s ground squirrel received the most
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votes by virtue of it simply being the most regionally plentiful. Recommended unequivocally by the good people of the Fish Creek Animal Hospital, the gopher is not a bad choice considering two things. One, renaming February 2 is an easy adaptation other groundhog-less jurisdictions have made. (For instance, Alaska observes Marmot Day since the state has few groundhogs.) Two, male gophers emerge from hibernation weeks before females thus providing a bona fide pre-seasonal timeframe. A new tradition could be to monitor a gopher family. When Mr. G emerges, spring is nigh. When Mrs. G does, spring hath sprung. Calgary Corn Maze owner, Mark Muchka, says the petting zoo animals’ ahem, “spring fever” is as accurate a seasonal indicator as any. Muchka knows all the usual procreative proclivities of animals after a winter dormancy – rams butt heads, chickens lay eggs, etc. – but said the petting zoo turkey is especially known to puff up his feathers, change colour, gobble more and roam around as spring approaches. Conrad Mueller from Absolute Pest Control said he knows when spring is near by the number of house calls he makes for mice infestations. (Though, that’s hardly a standard of measurement any of us actually want to use.) Fun-loving rancher, cowpoke and auctioneer, Col. Lee Creech, says gauging springtime is best left to luck and an old-fashioned round of Cow Pie Bingo – an adaptation of a “craps” table, so to speak, whereby one spray paints a grid on pasture and awaits the cash cow to do its business on an according number. In fact, many ranchers already practice similar traditions. One family said they place a derelict car on a slough and when it falls
through, it’s springtime. There’s no shortage of ways to tell when it’s spring (the emergence of the hardy but cautious crocus that shows only when certain it can make it, or the unmistakable chickadee-dee-dee) yet not one of these spring bellwethers addresses a fundamental flaw – that is basing spring on rodents from far-flung communities all over the continent but here. And of course, obvious variables in light, and consequently, shadows. Phil Langill, a professor of astronomy and physics at the University of Calgary, commented that because humidity, haze and pollution contain particles that scatter light before it hits the planet, the dry climate of Southern Alberta has historically been very good for clarity. “Incoming light can pass directly through the atmosphere, straight through to the ground and there’s less interference,” he said. For this experiment’s sake, the result: less interference equals more light which equals starker shadows which equals more terrified rodents which equals longer winters. Conclusion: need groundhog alternative. Or, because gopher squeaks have been known to register ultrasonically, one could retrofit a power tower with the proper equipment, thus becoming a gopher-tuned Foothills Spring-O-Meter.
Feb 2 is what’s called a cross-quarter day meaning that it is halfway between two seasons – each season being a quarter of the year. It also marks the day when daylight makes significant progress against the night. Because winter officially lasts another six weeks past Feb 2 anyway, it’s been pointed out that if a groundhog sees his shadow, he is correct 100 per cent of the time.
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Adventure Sports Take a walk, jog, trot, or boat ride on the wild side.
WJ Homestead Disc Golf – Millarville You may know it as frisbee golf... a unique and challenging outdoor game that involves hitting a target with a disc. Disc golfing is heaps of fun for people of all ages. This Alberta course is spectacularly situated on 23 scenic acres and is particularly family-friendly, with a unique history element. www.wjhomesteaddiscgolf.com
110 Centre Avenue W. Black Diamond
403.933.5047
Homeplace Ranch- Priddis If deep down inside you there is a cowboy /cowgirl waiting to emerge – here is your chance. Homeplace Ranch is a yearround working guest ranch in Alberta’s spectacular foothills. Book your vacation here and experience the activities, traditions, and gorgeous scenery that constitute life at home on the ranch. www.homplaceranch.com
www.bluerockgallery.ca
Bragg Creek Paintball – Bragg Creek Check out the unique terrain at this huge outdoor facility near Bragg Creek. www.braggcreekpaintball.com Foothills Mini Putt – High River It may not be all that adventurous, but let’s face it – mini golf is fun at any age! Check out this most excellent mini putt in High River!
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Call us for FREE Mortgage Qualifying Services
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Mortgage Associate
c: 403.461.6995
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c: 403.828.4607
Red Surge Battlefield Live – Nanton This place touts itself as having one of the safest team-based combat sports action centres in Western Canada. If you’re into realistic battlefield action, check out the 55-acre game site east of Nanton off Highway 2. www.redsurgebl.com Inside Out Experience – Outdoor Adventures – Bragg Creek If 2011 is your year for adventure, check out what this Bragg Creek outfit is offering: White Water rafting, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking. All ages – all levels – all in beautiful Alberta! www.insideoutexperience.com
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BUSINESSES IN
Diamond Valley
Vertical Extreme Skydiving – Vulcan Some say there is no thrill like it. Soar with the birds, float on a current, and see the world as never before. For those with a BIG appetite for adventure... skydiving is now available in Vulcan. www.verticalextremeskydiving.com. routesmagazine.ca
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health matters Professionally Speaking
interacting with others, obsessions, and repetitive behaviours. It includes conditions such as Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD). Individuals with ASDs have a hard time relating to the world in the same way others do. Some symptoms affected children might show are:
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders -A holistic viewpoint By Dr. Wendy Poole, ND
S
ince the early 1990s, the rate of Autism has increased worldwide at an alarming rate, with boys outnumbering girls four to one. It is estimated that as many as one in 150 kids ages 10 and younger may be affected by Autism or a related disorder. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) represent a range of abnormal behaviours and neurological dysfunctions that can affect the normal function of the gastrointestinal, immune, endocrine and nervous systems. It impacts normal brain development leaving most individuals with communication problems, difficulty
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
spinning head banging self harm repetitive behaviours lining up toys rapid mood swings sleeping problems negative response to change in routines indicates needs with gestures instead of words failure to bond food allergies/sensitivities asthma symptoms inability to sit still to eat at the table gastrointestinal issues difficulty making eye contact lack of interest in playing with other children
Parents or caregivers who see some of these unusual behaviours have found success with certain dietary modifications. Following a gluten(wheat)/casein (dairy) free diet (GF/CF) can take the pressure off of the bowel tract, helping it heal faster. Nutritional supplementation helps to fill in any missing ingredients and can also help repair the weakened bowel tract (leaky gut). Detoxification support can help the body with any heavy metal overloads. Dietary modification in combination with Homotoxicology (a homeopathically manufactured combination of products that are designed to work with the body’s defense mechanisms and facilitate the body’s elimination of toxic substances), is a start to help to restore proper function of the nervous, immune, gastrointestinal and the metabolic systems. This approach can benefit the behavioural and educational programs the child may already be involved in. Help for ASD is most effective when it begins as early as possible and is tailored to the child’s unique strengths, weaknesses and needs. There is a window of opportunity for recovery and healing at a young age.
Dr. Poole is a US Certified Naturopathic Doctor, International Homotoxicologist, Holistic Health and Kinesio Taping Practitioner. She is a Registered Defeat Autism Now Practitioner and European Certified Iridologist. She continues her education on an international level. Her main office is in Okotoks, and she also works in Sylvan Lake.
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pet matters
The Scoop
on Vaccinations
By Shannon Budiselic, DVM, CERT, CVA
T
he snow has melted, the Foothills are green, and you spy that chirpy, post-marked reminder card from your veterinarian – “Time to paws...and book an appointment with us!” Interestingly, most pet guardians believe that health checks are centred on a set of yearly vaccinations. In fact, while vaccinations may be one reason for a yearly visit, not all vaccinations are given yearly, and guardians may be missing out on a great opportunity to chat with their veterinarians about their pet’s general wellness. When it comes to vaccination guidelines, the following general recommendations are made: Vaccines are described as either “core” or “non-core”. Core vaccines are selected for a given geographical area based on the prevalence of a certain disease, and its impact on the human and animal populations there. Core vaccines recommended by the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association include: distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus and rabies for dogs, and panleukopenia, viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and rabies for cats.
Non-core vaccines such as kennel cough and Lyme disease for dogs and feline leukemia for cats may be appropriate based on your pet’s particular needs. All puppies and kittens should receive a set of core vaccinations starting at eight to nine weeks of age, with another two “boosters” given three to four weeks later, and again at 14 to 16 weeks of age. Another booster including rabies should be given at one year of age; just in case your pet didn’t develop immunity to the first set. After this point, the World Small Animal Veterinary and American Animal Hospital Associations advocate administering core vaccines labelled for administration every three years. Your veterinarian will help you chose which non-core vaccines may protect your pets, given their travel, lifestyle and socialization habits, age, or current health status. Since the duration of immunity of many non-core vaccines is shorter than the core vaccines, these vaccines tend to be given yearly. Blood tests may be used to determine if your pets have antibodies from previously administered core vaccines, and if
they require revaccination. These tests can only detect antibodies to some vaccines, and are particularly useful for dogs. Although they don’t necessarily indicate that a specific concentration of antibody is protective, they can help your veterinarian decide the best course of action for pets with special circumstances including older pets, pets living with chronic disease, or in the case of puppies (to determine if they developed immunity from their first booster series). Vaccinations are a foundation of every pet’s health, as is a nutritious diet, exercise and socialization. The use of three year vaccines should still encourage proactive pet guardians to “paws” and take the opportunity to make annual wellness exams part of their pet’s health care plan. Dr. Shannon Budiselic is a veterinarian and owner of Equilibrium, a holistic physical rehabilitation and preventive wellness practice based in Okotoks. She works on a referral basis and cooperates with your regular DVM to provide your horse or dog with an integrative health care plan.
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Landscapes & Garden Centre beautiful hanging baskets / large perennials / shrubs and trees
19
We grow our own! Visit us in the hamlet of Dewinton Open April - October www.csgcl.com 403.938.1835
from urban retreats to country estates we can create your ideal outdoor living space visit countrysidelandscapes.ca for more information.
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Winterfest March 6, 1 - 4 pm (free) Okotoks Agricultural Society
Arts & Entertainment
A day to experience the western heritage way of life. There will be demos, pony rides, historical display of the Ag Society and lots more interactive activities for the entire family. www.okotoks.ca [OK] Dinner Theatre March 9 – 12, 6 pm (tickets $55) March 12, 1 pm Aspen Crossing
March
what’s
happening
in your town YoUthopia March 4, 7 pm (tickets $15) Bragg Creek Centre
Professional, unsigned U19 southern Alberta based musicians on stage for an incredible evening you won’t want to miss. Individual performances and exciting collaborations by Sarah Troy Clark, Calum Graham, Storm, Melissa Papp and Robert Maclaine. www.youthtopia.ca [BC] Dewdney Players: One Act Plays March 4 - 5, 11 - 12, 18 - 19 Rotary Performing Arts Centre
Dewdney Players is a regular participant in the ADFA One Act Play Festival, and this year, the group is hosting the Foothills Zone competition in Okotoks. In preparation for the festival, they will be staging their entries at the Preview Production in March. www.dewdneyplayers.com [OK] Saxafras March 5, 8 pm (tickets $15) Carlson’s on Macleod
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Saxfras is a collaboration between Gordon Belsher, his daughter Savanna, son-in-law Todd MacLean. Gordon is well known from his performances with PEI fiddlers Cynthia MacLeod and Richard Wood. Todd is a multi-talented performing musician, teacher, and writer. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR]
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Performed on the Pullman rail car: Circus Train, a murder mystery dinner theatre. Tickets must be purchased in advance and include a three course meal. www.aspencrossing.com [MS] Shred Kelly March 11 Gitters Pub
Shred Kelly is a foot-stompin’ stoke-folk band from Fernie, with a unique style combining traditional instruments with an upbeat flair that has you dancing from start to finish. After a summer of sharing the stage with other remarkable artists, their second album is set to be released in this June. www.gitterspub.com [HR] Oilmen’s Mercer Cup Bonspiel March 11 – 13 Okotoks Curling Club
This first annual event has $10,000 in cash prizes plus a championship ring. www.mercercup.com [OK] John Rutherford March 12 Carlson’s on Macleod
John Rutherford is a singer/songwriter based in Calgary. His work, laced with the tonality, phrasing and spirit of the blues, reflects a strong blues influence and a long-standing presence on the western Canadian roots and blues scene. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR] En Plein Air: One Woman’s View Featuring Sharon Williams March 12 - April 16 Leighton Art Centre
Sharon Williams has been painting outdoors and on site (en plein air) in oil paints for the last four years. This exhibition displays the artwork she creates on-site while presenting location information and photographic images of her inspiration and the scenery where she created the paintings. www.leightonartcentre.org [MV] Jim McLennan – CD Release Party March 18 Carlson’s on Macleod
Guitar picker, Jim McLennan, is releasing his first solo CD titled Six-String Gumbo, a smooth plateful of solo instrumental guitarpieces. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR]
Backyard Betties March 18 Gitters Pub
Calgarian, Nancy Laberge is emerging as an up-and-coming folk singer/songwriter on Canada’s horizon. Whether crooning a heartfelt ballad or taking her audience on the wild side of a Barbie doll, people will remember seeing Nancy Laberge play a show. www.gitterspub.com [HR] Ceilidh and Dinner with Cowboy Celtic March 19, 5:30 pm (tickets $100) DeWinton Hall
The Foothills Advocacy in Motions Society (AIMS) provides services to individuals and families living in our communities whose lives are affected by developmental disabilities. This fundraising event will provide financial support for its much-needed programs. First class dinner provided by Hansel and Gretel Catering. www.faims.org [DW] Eli Barsi & Doris Daley March 19, 7:30 pm (tickets $20) Lewis Memorial United Church
Saddle up for an evening of Cowboy Poetry and Song. Southern Alberta fans of storytelling and live music are in for a real treat when two of Canada’s top female cowgirl entertainers make a concert. Tickets available at Marv’s Classic Soda Shop, Boot Hill Gallery and Carlson’s on Macleod. unitedchurchinthevalley@nucleus.com [TV] Sasha Lewis and Lonesome Ed March 19, 7:30 pm (tickets $7.50) Carlson’s on Macleod
Sasha’s original voice in Canadian songwriting is joined with the contemporary Canadiana sounds of Lonesome Ed to bring you inspiring folk-rock. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR] Sean Burns March 25 Gitters Pub
The Ontario-based Sean Burns is a singer/ songwriter with a real knack for catchy chorus and memorable melody that echoes the sounds of Steve Earle, Blue Rodeo and Tom Petty. www.gitterspub.com [HR] Heather Blush & the Uppercuts March 25, 8 pm (tickets $15) Carlson’s on Macleod
Heather Blush and The Uppercuts is a trio of rogue troubadours who knock the socks off every new audience they meet. Based in Calgary, their sound can be described as somewhere between the “Adult Alternative” styles of Sarah Slean and Sarah Harmer, and old “Ella/Louis-style” vocal jazz/blues. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR]
For event submissions email to: entertainment@routesmagazine.ca
spring 2011
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Jenn Beaupre March 25, 7 pm (tickets $15, children $5) Rotary Performing Arts Centre
With her powerful, classically-trained vocals and the juicy harmonies provided by her musical partner, Lewis Frere, Beaupre’s performances are memorable, and come straight from the heart. www.okotoks.ca [OK] 4th Annual Wilderness Experience Auction March 26, 5:30 pm (tickets $30) Oilfields High School
This annual auction is in support of Outward Bound initiatives at Oilfields High School. Featuring appetizers by Mark Klaudt of Route 40 Soup Co., live and silent auction items and live entertainment. 403.938.4973 [BD]
The Gift of Music Concert Series presents Georgy Tchaidze April 2, 7:30 pm High River United Church
Pianist Georgy Tchaidze was winner and First Laureate of the world’s prestigious Honens International Piano Competition in 2009. Georgy is a native of St. Petersburg, Russia, where he actively performs and records. 403.652.3168 [HR] Windmill Theatre Players Memorial Centre April 8-10, 14-16
“Catch Me if You Can” by Jack Weinstock and Willie Gilbert, is a three act whodunit that is exciting from beginning to end. www.windmilltheatreplayers.com [HR] Deon Blyan – CD Release Party April 8 Gitters Pub
Foothills Film March 31, 7:30 pm Wales Theatre
A selection of films from the Toronto International Film Festival Circuit air on the last Thursday of every month. www.walestheatre.com [HR]
Deon continues to show growth as both a writer and a player, milking more and more out of his vocals and guitar playing. For this second recording Deon teamed up with the pop-producing duo James Murdoch and Chris Wynters. www.gitterspub.com [HR] Birth of a Nation Day April 9, 6 pm - 9 pm (free) Okotoks Elks Hall
A time to recognize the Canadian Troops who fought at the battle of Vimy Ridge on April 9, 1917. www.okotoks.ca [OK] Frontporch Roots Review April 9 Carlson’s on Macleod
April Scott Cook April 1 Gitters Pub
www.gitterspub.com [HR] Sarah Troy Clark – CD Release Party April 2, 2 pm Carlson’s on Macleod
Sarah Troy Clark is a 16-year-old Bragg Creek singer/songwriter who is giving her hometown (and all of southern Alberta) a list of new accolades to brag about. Don’t miss the release of her 4th independent album, titled A Dozen Hearts. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR] Suzie Vinnick with Rick Fines and Chloe Albert April 2, 8 pm (tickets $27) Bragg Creek Centre
Suzie Vinnick is equally at home in folk, blues, pop, and country. Rick Fines is one of Canada’s leading blues, roots music and slide guitarists, and Chloe Albert is the winner of the Canadian Folk Music Award for New Emerging Artist for 2008. www.braggcreekperformingarts.com [BC]
Featuring Stewart MacDougall, Bobby Cameron, Ron Rault and Crawdad Canter. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR] Gary Fjellgaard with Darrel de la Ronde and Saskia April 15 Carlson’s on Macleod
For more than 30 years Gary has been making a living on the road with a guitar and a song. He delights his audiences throughout North America and Europe with his masterful acoustic guitar, gentle vocals, riveting yodeling, and tales of his life in the woods. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR] Family Jelly Bean Dance April 15, 5:30 pm Okotoks Community Hall
Treat the kids to some holiday fun, good music and an education on how dances are done! Janette Messer 403.938.8955. [OK] Kite Day April 17, 1 - 5 pm (free) Riverside Community Park
Come fly your kite. All ages welcome to participate and enjoy the display of kites. www.okotoks.ca [OK]
Members Show and Sale April 22 – May 29 Leighton Art Centre
This 9th annual juried show and sale (exclusive to artist membership) features a wide variety of themes, techniques and skill levels - the best artwork artist members have to offer. www.leightonartcentre.org [MV] Annual Easter Egg Hunt April 23, 10 am - noon (free) Kinsmen Park
Contact Kelly at 403.982.9287[OK] Chamber of Commerce Trade & Life Style Show April 29 - 30 (nominal entry fee)
Okotoks Recreation Centre Contact Okotoks & District Chamber of Commerce or email okotokschamber@telus.net [OK] Okotoks Artists Spring Show & Sale April 29 - 30 St. Peter’s Anglican Church
The Okotoks Artists are centered in Okotoks and consist of many talented artists from the wide surrounding area. Their work encompasses a vast variety of styles and subject matter ranging from realism to abstract. [OK] Amos Garrett April 29, 8 pm (tickets $20) Carlson’s on Macleod
Jazz night at Carlson’s with Garrett, Keith Smith and Greg Carroll. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR] Dewdney Players: Barefoot in the Park April 29 – 30, May 6 - 8, 12 -14 Rotary Performing Arts Centre
A comedy by Neil Simon: Paul and Corie Bratter are newlyweds in every sense of the word. Paul just doesn’t understand Corie, as she sees it. He’s too staid, too boring and she just wants him to be a little more spontaneous. Running “barefoot in the park” would be a start. www.dewdneyplayers.com [OK] Foothills Film April 28, 7:30 pm Wales Theatre
A selection of films from the Toronto International Film Festival Circuit air on the last Thursday of every month. www.walestheatre.com [HR]
[OK] Okotoks
[FM] Fort MacLeod
[MS] Mossleigh
[TV] Turner Valley
[LV] Longview
[BC] Bragg Creek
[NT] Nanton
[DV] Diamond Valley
[HR] High River
[MV] Millarville
For event submissions email to: entertainment@routesmagazine.ca
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Arts & Entertainment
Hope and Healing Gala May 14 Highwood Memorial Centre
Bunnies 'n Blossoms May 28, 10 - 5 Kayben Farms ($8/person $25/family)
This is Rowan House Emergency Shelter’s biggest fundraiser of the year! Performing is Elvis impersonator and Larry Ray and Toshi Jackson and the Silhouettes. Funds raised go to help build a new facility for needy women and children in the foothills. [HR]
Clothesline Art Sale May 28, 5 – 8 pm May 29, 10 am – 4 pm Leighton Art Centre
Calgary Girls Choir May 14, 7:30 pm High River United Church
May
more
happenings Ann Vriend –CD Release Tour May 1, 4 pm (tickets $15) Carlson’s on Macleod
Vriend is known for her dynamic live performances, balanced perfectly between breathtaking, heartbreaking songs and charming, witty humour. www.carlsonsonmacleod.com [HR]
The Calgary Girls Choir, under the direction of Elaine Quilichini, is one of Canada’s most dynamic and award-winning ensembles. Over the years, the choir has earned a stellar reputation in the choral community, gaining recognition and acclaim for its brilliant performances and many accomplishments. [HR] Annual Collector Car Auction May 27 – 28 Okotoks Recreation Centre
www.okotokscarauction.com [OK] Annual River Valley Clean Up May 28, 9 am - noon (free) Sheep River Park
Everyone is welcome to demonstrate your community pride by helping with the spring clean up of the river valley. Free BBQ at noon, lots of giveaways and information booths. www.okotoks.ca [OK] For event submissions email to: entertainment@routesmagazine.ca
Welcome the new farm animals to Kayben. www.kayben.com [OK]
This annual outdoor art sale features original artwork and fine crafts from over 60 Alberta artists. A wide variety of unique artworks, fine crafts, as well as live music. Sunday: hayrides, guided nature walks, museum and gallery tours, art demos and children’s art activities. www.leightonartcentre.org [MV] Joel Plaskett May 28, 8 pm Bragg Creek Centre
Since spending his teenage years recording and touring with Halifax indie upstarts Thrush Hermit, Plaskett has been writing his own story. Joel’s Truthfully Truthfully album was nominated for a Juno Award and he’s won an East Coast Music Award. www.braggcreekperfromingarts.ca [BC] [OK] Okotoks
[FM] Fort MacLeod
[MS] Mossleigh
[TV] Turner Valley
[LV] Longview
[BC] Bragg Creek
[NT] Nanton
[DV] Diamond Valley
[HR] High River
[MV] Millarville
Spring Gala Fine Art Show & Sale May 6 - 7 High River United Church
In this annual event the High River Art Society members will be displaying new and original works of art created in various mediums. Artists will be available to discuss the pieces as well as general art inquires. www.highriverartsociety.ca [OK]
For event submissions email to: entertainment@routesmagazine.ca
John Rutherford May 7, 7 pm Rotary Performing Arts Centre
Rutherford is a singer/songwriter based in Calgary. His work, laced with the tonality, phrasing and spirit of the blues, reflects a strong blues influence and a long-standing presence on the western Canadian roots and blues scene. www.okotoks.ca [OK] Dala May 7, 3 pm & 8 pm Bragg Creek Centre
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Amanda Walther and Sheila Carabine are a duo that has come a long way in a short time. As darlings of the Canadian music scene, this duo is now poised to bring a fresh brand of acoustic pop music to the world. www.braggcreekperfromingarts.ca [BC] The Time Pirates May 13 Gitters Pub
www.gitterspub.com [HR] routesmagazine.ca
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Spotlight
onTalent
If you haven’t had the privilege
– meet Sarah Troy Clark!
This young contemporary pop singer/ songwriter is causing a stir in the Alberta music scene and giving hometown Bragg Creek much applauded bragging rights.
Sarah Troy Clark is a 16-year-old Bragg Creek songstress who is giving her hometown (and all of southern Alberta) a list of new accolades to brag about. Sarah first gained notoriety when she was a finalist in the Stampede Talent Search for two consecutive years (2008 and 2009). By then she had already composed a number of original songs, and she has since produced three independent CDs with a fourth due out this spring.
Don’t miss the release of Sarah Troy Clark’s 4th independent album, titled A Dozen Hearts at Carlson’s on Macleod in High River on April 2 at 2 pm.
If that’s not enough to keep the locals bragging, this small town girl has lit up numerous stages including World Skills Calgary 2009, Cantos Music Studio, The Ironwood in Calgary – showcasing Young Singer Songwriters, a U of C awards ceremony, and more. Sarah has also hosted and performed at Bragg Creek’s own YoUthtopia in 2009, 2010, and 2011. In July of 2010, Sarah was accepted into the Berklee College of Music Summer Performance Program in Boston where she was featured in the top 10 singer/songwriter showcase with her original song, Just Keep Singin. Sarah was also awarded a full tuition scholarship for Berklee’s 2011 Summer Performance Program.
Beyond the Half Mile
-Authentic stories from the men of professional wagon racing by Women of the Wagons This unique nonfiction book gives readers an intimate look at the lives and experiences of cowboys and their families engaged in the highly competitive sport of professional chuckwagon racing. The book, written by a volunteer group who call themselves Women of the Wagons, offers a plethora of stories in the words of chuckwagon drivers, their families, outriders, wagon crews and supporters. The first-hand accounts range from heart-warming and humorous adventure tales, to riveting stories of adversity and turmoil – all known to be ‘part of the ride’ in the chuckwagon community. The book also includes a collection of personal photos and offers little known facts about the eightyseven year history of this captivating sport.
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Beyond the Half Mile is available ($30) at various stores and businesses throughout the foothills, including Pixie Hollow in High River, and Boot Hill Gallery in Okotoks. Proceeds from the book go to the Chuckwagon Benevolent Fund. For more information go to: www.halfmileofhell.com. routesmagazine.ca
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Fashion
Spring
Bling - Fabulous! Photos by Britta Kokemor on location at Deava Beadz, Okotoks Styling by Jaime Quinlan
From daytime to evening wear,
Okotok’s
boutiques offer vintage, handcrafted and designer fashions.
Blouse by NOA NOA, $134 Ankle zip jeans by Genetic Denim, $238 Leather jacket by Bod and Christensen, $363 Camisole by Mexx, $19 Leather boots by Gabor, $345 Green satchel by Rough Roses, $462 (Ginger Laurier)
Child: Denim Skort Cardig (Rhod
Earrin Neckla Bracel Bali si (Deav
Necklace, Bali silver, $220 Bracelet, $180 Bracelet, Bali silver, $98 Earrings, $32 Ring by Got All Your Marbles, $90 (Deava Beadz)
24
Gow (The
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Brac Ring (Dea
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$134 ns by $238 et by $363 , $19 $345 el by $462 urier)
Dress by Nicole Miller, $365 Blazer by Bailey, $495 (Ginger Laurier) Necklace, vintage button and black onyx, $160 Earrings, Bali silver ball, $18 Bracelet, vintage button silver and gold, $220 Ring by Got All Your Marbles, $90 (Deava Beadz)
Denim jacket by Guess, $26 (Coco Rouge) Blouse by H&M, $7 (Rhoda’s Elegance Again) Camisole by Mexx, $19 (Ginger Laurier)
Mom: Dress by Odd Molly, $435 (Ginger Laurier) Child: Denim dress by Tommy Hilfiger, $20 Skort by Tommy Hilfiger, $12 Cardigan by deux par deux, $14 (Rhoda’s Elegance Again) Earrings, Swarovski pink crystal, $22 Necklace, glass beads, $42 Bracelet, Czech crystal and Bali silver prayer box Bracelet, $80 (Deava Beadz)
Necklaces, vintage brass lockets, $48-$69 Earrings, vintage copper and brass leaf, $52 Bracelet, freshwater pearls, $89 (Deava Beadz)
Sweater by Moda, $18 (Coco Rouge) Shoes by Aldo, $28 (Rhoda’s Elegance Again) Bracelet, $59 Necklace, Swarovski crystal, $70 Earring, Swarovski crystal, $38 Ring by Got All Your Marbles, $90 (Deava Beadz)
$220 $180 , $98 , $32 , $90 eadz)
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Gown by Venus, $345 (The Lily Pad) Bracelet, Cha Cha, $98 Ring by Got All Your Marbles, $90 (Deava Beadz)
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spring 2011
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Fashion
Source Guide
102-52 McRae St. 403.938.6146 www.gingerlaurier.com
Bridal & Special Occasions Boutique #2 Elma Street 403.869.6167 www.thelilypadinc.com
Distinctive Jewellery #4 Elma Street E 403.938.6168 www.deavabeadz.ca
Photography
Gown by Tony Bowls, $499 (The Lily Pad) Necklace, vintage rhinestone and Czech crystal, $75 Bracelet, Hematite, $89 Earrings, Bali and Silver Blackstone, $54 (Deava Beadz)
Routes Spring 2011.indd 26
Styling - Jaime Quinlan www.jaimequinlan.com Makeup - Paulette Marck Hair - Sam Provick Models - Marrissa Hicks and Aurora Quinlan
17/02/11 3:49 PM
Tantalizing 8 Ice Cream Stops
SHOW HOME NOW OPEN!
2210 HIGH COUNTRY RISE, HIGH RIVER
Figaro's Gelateria 45 North Railway St., Okotoks Memory Lane 118-4th Ave. SW, High River Hitchin' Post Drive-In 100-12 Ave. SE, High River All Thru the House 20 McRae St., Okotoks Homes that think ahead.
Marv’s Classic Soda Shop 121 Centre Ave., Black Diamond Coyote Moon Cantina 202 Main St., Turner Valley
Box 5173 High River, AB T1V 1M4 403.603.0121 farrellyhomes.com
Frontier Candy & Ice Cream Co. River Dr., Bragg Creek Scoops & Snacks 44 White Ave., Bragg Creek Nanton Ice Cream Shoppe 2129-20 St., Nanton As a quality control measure, we’ve had a sampling from each one!
Dr. Justin Palmer
403.938.6684 www.okotoksdental.com 66 North Railway Street Okotoks, AB T1S 1J3
don't forget your
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Office Hours Mon-Wed 7:00 - 4:30pm Thursday 9:00 - 6:00 pm
New Patients Welcome
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Subscribe for only $14 a year. routesmagazine.ca
Routes Spring 2011.indd 27
spring 2011
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Mahi Mahi
Food
with Mango-Fig Relish & Red Pepper Sauce By Jamal Malih and Madja Ourahma Photo by Neville Palmer
Ingredients:
1 Mahi Mahi filet Relish:
Sauce:
1
mango, cubed
1
½
small red onion
¼
small red onion, finely diced
3
dried figs
¼
cup white wine
1
tbsp chopped cilantro
1
tbsp fortified fish stock
1
tbsp white wine vinegar
½
cup water
1
tsp lemon juice
salt and pepper
¼
tsp black pepper
large red bell pepper
Garnish: 2
cups spinach
1
garlic, minced
red roasted potatoes
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Method: Relish: • In a medium sized mixing bowl place the cubed mango pieces, cilantro, vinegar, lemon juice, black pepper and half of the red onion. • Mix thoroughly and let the flavours mingle while you prepare the rest of the dish. Sauce: • Roast the red pepper in the oven. • Once cooked, peel and deseed it. • Roughly chop the red pepper and onion then place in a saucepan with a splash of olive oil and sweat over medium heat. • Deglaze the pan with the white wine and reduce until syrupy. • Add the fish stock and water and simmer for a few minutes. • Blend to a smooth consistency and adjust seasoning.
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Fish: • Season both sides of the filet. • Heat a cast iron pan over high heat. • Once the pan is hot, coat it with a thin layer of vegetable oil and sear the fish for three minutes on each side, adjusting the heat so as to not burn the outside of the fish. To serve: • Heat a sauté pan over medium heat then add 2 tbsp of olive oil with the minced garlic and sweat till aromatic but not browned. • Toss in the spinach and wilt, season to taste. • Spoon the spinach onto the middle of a serving plate along with the warm roasted potatoes. • Place the fish over the vegetables and spoon the salsa on top. • Sauce the plate and serve.
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Flourless Chocolate Cake
with Hazelnuts & Coffee Cream By Jamal Malih and Madja Ourahma Photo by Neville Palmer
Ingredients:
Method:
Butter for greasing pans
• • •
Flour for dusting 2
cups roasted and skinned hazelnuts
2
cups blanched almonds
8
oz semi sweet chocolate, melted
5
tbsp brandy
2
tbsp brewed espresso
1
tsp cinnamon
2
tbsp milk
1
cup sugar
5
large eggs at room temperature, separated
Coffee Cream: 1 cup heavy cream ½ cup sugar ½ cup milk ½ oz coffee liquor 1 oz espresso coffee
Put all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil on moderate heat, reduce to desired texture and flavour.
• • • • •
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease the pan and coat with flour. Blend the chocolate, hazelnuts and almonds together, and transfer the mixture to a large metal bowl. Add the brandy, coffee, cinnamon, milk and half the sugar and stir. Add the yolks one at a time mixing thoroughly after each addition. In a separate bowl whisk the whites until foamy and the remaining sugar and whip until fluffy and form soft peaks. Fold the egg whites into mixture one at a time. Spoon the mixture into the prepared cake pan and bake for an hour or until a skewer inserted in the middle comes out dry.
The Little New York Bistro, owned and operated by Jamal Malih and his wife Majda Madja Ourahma, draws its inspiration from Longview’s historic past when it was known as Little New York. Mimicking the vibrancy and diversity of the Big Apple, Jamal breathes life into the quaint bistro with his savoir-faire and his new age Mediterranean style cuisine. With an extensive background of fine cooking that extends from Greenwich, Connecticut to Montreal to Manhattan, this extraordinary chef and sommelier brings a new level of culture to southern Alberta. For more on Jamal’s impressive chef endeavours, visit www.routesmagazine.com
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Food
Chef Patrick Dunn
Q A
is a regular chef at Stirr! and the owner of InterCourse Chef Services, Calgary.
How long have you been a chef ? I’ve been cooking professionally for 20 years.
Spicy
Where did you get your start? I began as a dishwasher at Earls Tin Palace, Calgary.
Chicken Satay
What inspired you to be a chef ? I was getting fired from all my retail jobs, as I was often on commission and I wasn’t a very good salesman. It turned out I had a decent palate and a knack for cooking. So I just stuck with it. What would you say your specialty is? I’m known mostly for my Thai cuisine and knife skills classes. Once people gain confidence with knives, their interest level and ambition to cook typically rises as well.
By Patrick Dunn Photos by Neville Palmer
What is your favourite meal to eat? Surprisingly I never tire of Thai or Indian food. I guess it’s because of all the great flavours and colours that are inherent in the cuisines. Give me a spicy papaya salad and I’m a happy man. If you weren’t a chef, what would you be doing? Possibly a stockbroker, or pilot maybe. Why did you choose this name for your company? I wanted the name to be memorable, cheeky and not serious. I’ve never liked the word catering as I’ve worked for a lot of bad catering companies. I also wanted to be honest about the fact that food and sexuality are linked. I don’t shove it in people’s faces, but I am playful, cheeky and flirty in my classes. As a result, people lower their guard, relax and are more open to learning.
Quinoa &Chickpea Salad Ingredients: Serves 2-4 1
cup quinoa
Method: •
1¾ cups water 1
tsp salt
1
cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1
medium tomato, seeded and chopped
1
tbsp grated garlic
3
tbsp lime juice
2
tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
4
tsp olive oil
½ tsp freshly toasted and ground cumin
• • • •
Place the quinoa in a finemesh strainer and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the quinoa and salt and return to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until tender and the liquid is absorbed. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, tomato, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, oil, and cumin. Add the quinoa and toss to coat well.
30 Stirr! Adventures in Food is owned and operated by Clayton Foster and Lainey Minardi. The gourmet specialty kitchen shoppe is located in Black Diamond, and can host corporate or private functions. They offer cooking classes five times a week drawing from an array of 10-12 chefs. There’s always something new stirring at Stirr!
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Ingredients: Serves 4 4-6
OKOTOKS
skinless chicken breasts,
cut into thin strips 1
Natural Foods
package wooden skewers
Come In and Taste the Goodness
Satay Marinade ¼ cup minced lemongrass, fresh or frozen 2
shallots or 1 small onion,
sliced 3
cloves garlic
1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced, or ½ tsp to 1 tsp cayenne pepper, to taste 1
thumb-size piece galangal
or ginger, thinly sliced 1
tsp minced fresh turmeric
or ½ tsp dried turmeric 2
tbsp ground coriander
2
tsp cumin
3
tbsp dark soy sauce
Large Selection of Gluten Free Products www.okotoksnaturalfoods.com
(available at Asian food stores) 4
tbsp fish sauce
5-6 tbsp brown sugar 2
tbsp vegetable oil
Method: • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water while you prepare the meat (to prevent burning). • Cut chicken into thin strips and place in a bowl. • Place all marinade ingredients in a food processor or chopper. Process well. The strongest tastes should be SWEET and SALTY in order for the finished satay to taste its best. Add more sugar or more fish sauce (in place of salt) to adjust the taste. You can also add more chili if you want it spicier. • Pour the marinade over the meat and stir well to combine. Allow at least 1 hour for marinating, or longer (up to 24 hours). • When ready to cook, thread meat onto the skewers. Fill up to ¾ of the skewer, leaving the lower half empty so the person grilling has a “handle” to easily turn the satay during cooking. • Grill the satay on your BBQ , on an indoor grill, or broil in the oven on a broiling pan or baking sheet with the oven set at “broil”. Place satay close beneath the heating element and turn the meat every 5 minutes until cooked. Cook for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on thickness of the meat.
Family Owned and Operated #201, 200 Southridge Drive Westmount Plaza, Okotoks
Open 7 Days a Week Mon-Fri: 10-8 Sat: 10-7 - Sun: 10-5
PROGRESSIVE FAMILY DENTISTRY
Invisalign Zoom Whitening
New Patients Welcome Evening And Saturday Appointments Available
Digital X-Rays Crowns/Bridges White Fillings Bonding & Veneers Implants Root Canals Conscious Sedation 31
403-603-3364
201 - 103 3 Avenue SW, High River
www.signaturesmilesdentistry.ca
Dr. Vicki McMullen
routesmagazine.ca
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Finance
Clearly For You:
What is spent now
can’t be spent later! By David and Heather Meszaros
N
ow that a new year has arrived, many people are thinking about what they will do differently in the year ahead. Sadly, saving for tomorrow is often more of an afterthought than a premeditated plan. This year, we suggest you take action to pay yourself first. In other words, instead of your income going to others, begin an investment plan that directs some of your hard earned income into your future. Some employers offer payroll deducted plans; many even match a percentage of your contribution. Take
BUSINESS Directory Norwex Enviro Products
Highest quality microfiber and silver – nature’s antibacterial for a chemical free, family safe home. Tammy Meadows 403-684-3616 tammym@platinum.ca
Partylite
Earn income on your terms. Top-quality home fragrance. No-charge Starter Kit. Shop Online 24/7 Nancy Belsey 403-703-9261 www.partylite.biz/nancybelsey
Safe Wickless Candles 32
Flameless, smokeless and soot-free candles. Scentsy’s 80 unique fragrances in candle bars and electric warmers. Michelle Barratt 403-938-9633 www.freshlyscented.scentsy.ca
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advantage of these opportunities. Not only do you save tax as you contribute but this is also a disciplined way to save for your future. Those who don’t have such an employee benefit should still make contributions monthly or every payday. TFSA (Tax Free Saving Accounts) are a great alternative to RRSP contributions. The rules are slightly different, so check with someone who can explain them to you. In some circumstances, a TFSA offers advantages over a RRSP. Adding investments that are non-registered (not a RRSP or RRIF) are a great way to round out your investment portfolio. Some accounts actually guarantee the income from these funds, for life. While the tendency is often to respond to the marketing of saving or investing at this time of year, we believe that one of the most significant areas of financial planning that is overlooked is the assumption we make about our current and future health and the possible cost and consequences if we are not healthy. What if you spend 40 years saving for retirement, only to retire and need to
withdraw all your savings to fund a health crisis? To prepare for the unexpected, we suggest “wealth insurance”. This strategy is particularly important for pre-retirees or younger retired people, but we recommend planning for this long before retirement when it is much more affordable. This way you can rest assured that if an unexpected health crisis hits, you will have enough income to cover it, without placing a financial burden on your family. For more information on “wealth insurance” or help with an RRSP or any other investment, contact us anytime at 403-652-3233.
Husband and wife team, David and Heather Meszaros are licensed with Sun Life Financial and Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. David, a Certified Financial Planner, has been with Sun Life for 18 years. Heather, a Registered Health Underwriter, has been with Sun Life for five years. They believe in providing a holistic approach to financial advising, providing solutions to their clients with life insurance, health insurance, and investments.
The Pampered Chef
Quality kitchen tools at your door. For a catalogue or business opportunity information. Gaylene Sweet 403-651-8908 gaylene.sweet@shaw.ca
Jewellery Sales Opportunity NEW line to Canada... trendy and very affordable! Work from home, set your own hours, earn great money. Christina Spackman 403-889-4521 www.liasophia.ca/christina
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spring 2011
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The Motherload: Family
Unplugged By Pat Fream
T
he other day as I stood in line at Safeway, I watched a feisty threeyear-old hijack his mother’s composure with a full blown melt down over bubble gum. “I want Hubba Bubba!” he bellowed. “You’re not having it!” She murmured, trying to paste a smile over gritted teeth. He then launched himself at her body and began beating his fists against her torso. Mortified and embarrassed, she gathered him up in a firm bear hug and held tight. The tot squirmed like a caught fish then changed forms to wet noodle and slithered down her body into a wailing heap on the dirty tile. People who understood – had been there a time or two – took the sympathy
road, feigning interest in new details of the Royal Wedding. However, not everyone understands. Some have no patience or no experience with distraught Hubba Bubba fiends. One such lady was next in line. She sighed loudly and then yanked her cart stacked with three bags of cat food away from the distasteful scene, and took her place behind me. “That kid needs discipline!” she quipped – loud enough for the mother and everyone else to hear. I disregarded the comment and made a move myself; behind the mother in turmoil; a solidarity stance. The crying went on for several excruciating minutes. “I’m sorry,” she offered quietly. “Don’t be, you’re only doing your best,” I affirmed.
Get away. . embrace the day! Okotoks, AB
Garden Centre Sunshine Adventure Park
At Kayben Farm s
“That’s not how some people see it,” she said glancing nervously at the judging cat woman. “Maybe her cats don’t fancy Hubba Bubba,” I joked. She laughed; exhaled; her face softened. The boy crawled several paces ahead and became quiet – preoccupied with a squashed M&M on the floor. Grocery store merriment was restored. “I can’t wait till this stage passes,” she lamented. “Last month he was a prince; happy as can be.” “Yes, they do progress in stages,” I replied, “some more pleasant than others.” “How old are yours?” she asked. “All three are teenagers – 13 to 18.” “Really? How do you do it – I mean get through the tough stages?” “Like you,” I said, “I think you’ve got the formula... hold tight, release, find humour, breathe.” “It’s hard,” she said. “And humbling,” I added. We parted kindly; strangers united by bubble gum and motherhood.
Comments? Email pat@routesmagazine.ca
It's Not What You Earn... It's What You KEEP!
Landscaping JoJo’s Cafe
www.kayben.com 403.938.2857
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34
www.
timothyFreds.com
403-652-1937 30 - 3rd Ave SE. High River
*FURNITURE *HOME DECOR *MATTRESSES *MAJOR APPLIANCES routesmagazine.ca
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Toll Free: 1-877-938-8297 Liane Denis (Bilingual) lynlysaccounting@shaw.ca
www.onlineaccountantpro.ca
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Woodcraaft HOMES ...
Dewinton Community Hall
quality built
❃ Weddings, Showers, Parties, Family Reunions & Meetings ❃ Seats up to 200 People ❃ Cozy Carpet Lounge Area With Fireplace ❃ Main Hall has Beautiful Hardwood Flooring ❃ Gazebo for Staging Outdoor Weddings ❃ Playground & Picnic Area ❃ Plenty of Parking
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“The builder that actually builds your home ... what a concept!”
Chris Morrill - Owner, 403-860-1895
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Graphic Artist
Open: Thursday to Saturday 12-5
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Cozy atmosphere... great place to catch-up with a friend.. • Freshly Roasted Coffee • Organic Fair Trade Espresso • Gluten Free Options • Fresh Baking • Really Great Food!
94 Elizabeth St Okotoks, AB. 403.938.3003. bluerockcoffee@gmail.com 35
BUSINESSES IN
Okotoks
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Detours
M.L. Cofell
I
am looking forward to spring – I do every year. Christmas is great, but the downhill slide through January and February is always a little distressing. The dressed-up trees disappear, the lights fade and the dark of winter really settles in. The upside to dark, cold days is that once you hit March the days lengthen and you really start to feel like you are moving toward the light. It’s like coming out of a dream. Lately I’ve spent a great deal of time talking to people about their dreams. Not Alice in Wonderland type dreams caused by far too much tequila; but what people desire from life. I often ask, “If you could do anything without money, time or age being a factor, what would it be?” I am always amazed at the answers I receive. Most of the people I talk to would choose to be doing something entirely different. We seem to be trapped in a cycle of responsibility and obligation. Bills, mortgages, and payments keep us from pursuing that which would make us truly happy. We spend a lot of our time being who we think we ought to be rather than just being who we are. We feed our image, but we neglect our souls. I have been fortunate enough to know a few people who have pursued their dreams, regardless of the criticism they have received for doing so. Not all of them have been successful, by traditional definition, but none of them would change what the experience gave them. They tell me making a dream a reality takes dedication, hard work, and a leap of faith. It takes a readiness to be kicked to the curb, then get up, dust yourself off, and keep walking the road less traveled. The difference between them and us is their willingness to fail, and their continued belief that nothing is impossible. Spring would be really boring if the flowers decided they didn’t have anything unique to offer the world. What if the weeds decided to just coast for the season and didn’t bother to put down roots? Sure, the garden would be easier to keep, but the joy and rewards of losing yourself in the dirt and sunshine for an afternoon would be lost. Dreams are no different. As the trees bud and the tulips push themselves to the surface, not knowing if they will succumb to a late frost, so should we drive ourselves toward reaching our dreams.
36
Because through our dreams comes our very own awakening.
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ONE FREE REGULAR SKATE SHAPENING One coupon per customer. . Valid until JUNE 1, 2011
#101, 416 Centre St SE, High River
403-652-7771 | highwoodnaturalfoods@telus.net
Bikes and Accessories hwnfAdNewPic.indd 1
4/29/10 7:15:41 PM
Baseball Equipment
Trendy Apparel
Highwood Views Bed & Breakfast a taste of the Great Canadian Prairie
Skateboards
A country setting just 10 minutes from High River 403-601-2795 www.highwoodviews.com
BUSINESSES IN
High River
#321, 201 Southridge Dr. Okotoks, AB T1S 2E1 403.938.5772 info@classicsfs.com routesmagazine.ca
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Contributors Peter Worden is the founding editor and proud slinger of The Experiment, a miniature newspaper in Nanton composed of mostly made-up news. His writing days are spent juggling an assortment of similarly ridiculous experiments -social, political and, in this month’s case, zoological (an experiment in “groundhog alternatives”) to do with the foothills region. He is currently assistant editor at Alberta Views in Calgary. Pat Fream lives to write and writes to... stay sane ? which is a lofty goal these days with three teenagers and a demanding work schedule. Luckily, her husband's a rock, her friends and coworkers are among the best, and her faithful retriever, Tucker, takes her for several walks a day for stress relief. Pat has a communications degree and two decades of writing experience. Melissa Cofell Having lived in several cities in Canada and the UK, Melissa decided to come back to Canada with her husband in 2005, settling in High River. Always imaginative, writing has been an natural interest for Melissa. At a young age, her writing was recognized and she was one of two students from her school who were sent to a Young Writers Conference. A desire to create has taken her on many paths and recently brought her to routes.
38
Jaime Quinlan has always had a flare for fashion - from dressing Barbies to a Vogue devotee. Her drive and desire to work in the fashion industry put her on the top of the list for styling and fashion consulting for many Calgary and area based photographers. Working with professional photographers and make-up artists, Quinlan has been behind the scenes adding her own eclectic style and charm to the models as well as fashion consultations for both men and women.
One of the highlights of being a writer and a publisher is all the wonderful people I meet along the way. I had the pleasure of being on the set of Heartland in Calgary to interview the publicist and a few actors in this well-loved and popular TV drama. Later, some of the Routes gang enjoyed an impromptu gathering at Heartland’s High River set Maggie’s Feed Store. From left to right: Pat Fream (writer, copy editor), Melissa Cofell (Detours), Grace Palmer (comic relief actress), Sharon Syverson (art director) and myself, Sandra Wiebe (The Big Cheese), behind the counter. Far right is Jason Nolan (Heartland’s assistant location manager) and behind the camera lens, Neville Palmer.
Britta Kokemor is a Calgary based photographer specializing in editorial, commercial and fashion photography. She grew up in Okotoks and began taking photographs professionally in high school. Her work has appeared in various European and Canadian magazines and exhibitions. Britta holds a Bachelor of Design in Photography from the Alberta College of Art and Design. routesmagazine.ca
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March 24 & 25, 2011 Carriage House Inn, 9030 Macleod Trail SE, Calgary, AB
CELEBRATE, LEARN, CREATE MAGAZINE EXCELLENCE Join us at Western Canada’s largest magazine conference with industry experts, including keynote speaker: Field & Stream editor Anthony Licata, winner 2009 National Magazine Award, General Excellence. Professional development sessions cover current topics in editorial, sales, design, circulation and digital publishing.
albertamagazines.com
39
www.highrivertourism.ca routesmagazine.ca
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spring 2011
17/02/11 3:49 PM
HIGH RIVER
A MASTER PLANNED COMMUNITY Featuring a 16 Acre Pond and 7 Premier Builders
Homes from the
240’s
$
lifeinhighriver.com
Phase 2 Now Open! Routes Spring 2011.indd 40
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