Central Alberta Homes & Lifestyle - Spring 2016 by Source Media Group

CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S

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spring 2016 | issue 15

contents 13

Lifestyles 9 Focus On

Table lamps. Today’s table lamp does much more than just give off light

13 In the Kitchen

Festive favourites. Sweeten your season with holiday scones

24 People

Charting the course Scott Robinson leads the operations for the 2019 Canada Winter Games

27 Entertainment

A Night at the Symphony The Red Deer Symphony Orchestra strikes all the right notes

31 Getting to Know

Chris Beaumont Abbey Master Builder

34 You Said It

What’s your favourite restaurant and what is your favourite thing to eat there?

Homes 10 Market Overview

Bright spots. Central Alberta lifestyle never loses its’ value

14 Events

Build something fabulous The 2016 Red Deer Home Show has ideas for every project

16 Show Home Profile

Laebon Homes Can-do attitude and commitment to excellence turn dreams into reality

18 Community Profile

Melcor Developments Building long-term value for homebuyers in Laredo

22 Business Profile

Red Deer Overdoor It’s an open and shut case!

Items 6 Message from the chief executive officer

32 Maps Central Alberta and Red Deer

New communities

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message from the chief executive officer

Believe it or not, spring IS just around the corner. I know this because it’s about this time every year that Canadian Home Builders Association – Central Alberta Region staff, board and committee members, volunteers and member companies are preparing for an annual rite of spring – the Red Deer Home Show. It’s kept us pretty busy around the office lately and it will likely keep plenty of area businesses, contractors and homeowners busy later this spring after this very popular event March 4-6. We’ve got some great speakers lined up this year, including our cover photo, HGTV Canada’ Kate Campbell. You can read all about it on page 14. Continuing with things for the home, we have our Focus On photographic essay on table lamps, a show home profile from Laebon Homes, and a community profile on Laredo, a new southeast Red Deer community from Melcor Developments. Of course we also take a look at the ‘big picture’ with Jim Zang’s regular market overview. It’s not always pretty, but he tells it like it is. For all the foodies out there, we’ve got a two-course literary dinner for you as Tammie Sorensen gives us some tips on cooking the perfect glazed ham and regular Red Deerites tell us about their favourite places to eat in You Said It. Mmm. Is anybody else hungry? And after dinner, maybe an evening at the symphony? For its size, Red Deer has a vibrant arts and entertainment community, and this includes the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra. If you fancy yourself a music lover, the article on page 27 will hit all the right notes for you. Part of this magazine’s mandate is to spotlight all the people, places and things to do that make Central Alberta a great place to live, work and play. We’ve covered some things to do and places to go, and we’ve got the people part covered too. First, join our Lifestyles Editor, Shelley Newman, as she chats with Scott Robinson chief executive officer for the Host Society of the 2019 Canada Winter Games, on page 24. Next, we continue our Getting To Know series as we meet some of the individual in the local housing industry who continue to help build our communities, whether as land developers, home builders, suppliers, or relatted trades and services. This time around, we get know Chris Beaumont, CHBA-CA board member and general manager of Abbey Master Builder. And speaking of meeting people, you can meet yours truly down at the Home Show, if I’m not at the CHBA – CA booth I’ll be around somewhere, so make sure to stop and say ‘hello’. See you at the Show! Sincerely,

Denie Olmstead Chief Executive Officer CHBA – Central Alberta

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CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION – CENTRAL ALBERTA represents professionals in the housing industry. CHBA – Central Alberta has been in existence for over 55 years and is a network of professionals that manages industry issues to provide value to our members. #200, 6700-76 Street Red Deer, Alberta T4P 4G6 Tel: 403.346.5321 Toll-free: 1.888.346.5329 Fax: 403.342.1301 Toll-free: 1.877.342.1301 E-mail: eo@chbacentralalberta.ca www.chbaca.ca Denie Olmstead | Chief Executive Officer eo@chbacentralalberta.ca Joan Butler | Administration & Event Co-ordinator admin@chbacentralalberta.ca

PUBLISHED BY Source Media Group Corp. 207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9 Tel: 403.532.3101, Fax: 403.532.3109 Toll free: 1.888.932.3101 Email: info@sourcemediagroup.ca www.sourcemediagroup.ca ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER | Jim Zang ART DIRECTOR | Jean Faye Rodriguez GRAPHIC DESIGNERS | Dave Macaulay, Vivian Zhang PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR | Colleen Leier CONTRIBUTORS | Jennifer Blair, Tanya Lee, Jock Mackenzie, Treena Mielke, Shelley Newman, Shae Paterson, Tammie Sorensen, Jim Zang DIRECTOR OF SALES | Norma Robertson norma.robertson@sourcemediagroup.ca ADVERTISING SALES | James Pearce james.pearce@sourcemediagroup.ca © 2016 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publishers. Source Media Group Corp. agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group Corp. reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion. Central Alberta Homes & Lifestyles is published quarterly and is distributed to every member of the Canadian Home Builers’ Association – Central Alberta, as well as on free stands throughout the region.

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A DV ER T ISI NG FE AT U RE

Why attend summer camp at Red Deer College? Just ask Joey Teen to spend six consecutive weeks on RDC Campus

ith over 1,200 youth taking part in a variety of summer camps at Red Deer College this past summer, there is surely something for everyone. One enthusiastic summer camper is 16-year-old Joey Stedman. Joey discovered RDC’s summer camps in 2014 when his mother saw a brochure for the overnight teen camps. They signed up for two weeks of Teen Film Camp, followed by two weeks of MusiCamp Alberta. “I was expecting good camps, but when I got here it was way better than I ever imagined,” recalls Joey. “And it kept getting better and better, every day.” From Calgary, Alberta, Joey found the on-campus accommodations provided with all RDC’s overnight camps to be an added bonus. Although many summer camps were available closer to home, he

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believes the Red Deer College programs to be unique. “Coming here, you really get that sense of family and integrity. It’s different than anywhere else. You make a year’s worth of memories,” Joey shares. He plans to return for six consecutive weeks this summer. RDC’s summer camps are taught by instructors who are experts in their field. They devote time to teaching participants about the educational and career opportunities available to them in each industry. Joey is an artistic triple threat with talents in filmmaking, musical theatre and band (he plays the tenor saxophone). Like Joey, many youth have multiple interests. RDC offers a wide variety of day and overnight camps including sport, science, theatre, visual art, film, game design,

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trades, music, dance and even new camps in cooking and Joey Stedman animation. Joey encourages his peers to see summer camp as an opportunity to explore new experiences outside their comfort zone. “Just give it a try. You can find out so much more about yourself, about what you want to do in the future. You can make new friends with new interests.” RDC’s 2016 summer camps are now open for registration. For more information, visit rdc.ab.ca/summercamps or contact the School of Continuing Education at 403.356.4900. n

focus on

Table lamps Today’s table lamp does much more than just give off light. These days, table lamps are an important piece of the décor, their unique style complementing the home’s design motif. BY TA N YA L EE

5 1 Armstrong table lamp by Lite Source. $229 at La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries. 2 Jasmin chrome table lamp byRenWil. $229.99 at Sims Furniture. 3 Entwined Love by Pacific Coast Lighting. $199 at La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries. 4 Tripod spotlight by CJ Marketing. $219.90 at Red Deer Lighting. 5 Metal table lamp by Décor Monaco. $309.99 at Sims Furniture. 6 Rose table lamp by Elk Lighting. $189 at Red Deer Lighting.

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market overview

Bright spots Central Alberta lifestyle never loses its’ value BY J I M Z A N G

he numbers may not be as big as the recent U.S. Powerball draw, but some communities definitely came out winners in the annual lottery that is the Central Alberta housing market. Now that the 2015 year-end totals are in we can take a look back at the year that was. It would be nice to be able to say “good riddance,” but, in the face of low oil prices and uncertainty about both the Federal and Provincial governments, most experts think we’re in for more of the same in 2016 before things start to correct themselves in 2017.

STARTS BY DWELLING TYPE — RED DEER December 2015

December 2014

2015 Final

2014 Final

Single family

253

393

Semi-detached

Row

158

Apartment

356

270

Total

692

867

Chart A

Source: CMHC

Future look

CHBA – Alberta predicts tough year ahead SPEAKING TO MEMBERS of the CHBA – Central Alberta at their January dinner meeting, Richard Goatcher, Economic Analyst for CHBA – Alberta, predicted housing starts in Alberta will decrease in 2016 by almost 20 per cent from 2015 levels as the economy continues to suffer from a depressed energy sector. Job creation and in-migration will remain positive, but modest at best. Despite FORECASTS FOR ALBERTA the economic slowdown MAJOR CITIES IN 2016: across Alberta last year, however, total housing Calgary: 10,000 units (-16%)  starts in the province in Edmonton: 11,100 units (-32.3%)  2015 still exceeded the Grande Prairie: 190 units (-48.6)  five-year average of 32,500 Lethbridge: 900 units (+2.9%)  total units between 2010 Medicine Hat: 230 units (no change)   and 2014. Red Deer: 780 units (+4.7%)  Another strong performance by multi-family builders, particularly in the Edmonton area, will offset a steep reduction in singledetached starts in 2015, he said, but Alberta’s builders are

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expected to sharply reduce multi-family activity next year in response to rising inventories of unsold units and higher rental apartment vacancy rates. Single-family starts in 2016 are expected to post only modest gains over the current year due to continued competition from existing homes listed for sale.    Looking ahead to 2017, he said, total housing starts are expected to increase modestly in Alberta, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation to 30,300 units, up almost two per cent from forecast 2016 levels. A gradual improvement in economic growth combined with reduction in unsold inventories and firmer resale markets will contribute to the turnaround. Richard Goatcher

In the City of Red Deer, while December 2015 was a good month compared to last year, thanks to a big condo project or two getting started, it wasn’t enough to make up the difference as Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) reported total 2015 housing starts fell by 175 starts (20 per cent) from 2014 (see chart A). Nearly all the shortfall occurred in the singlefamily segment, the hardest hit by the economic downturn. Row (townhome) housing was also down, while apartment-style new home starts actually increased year to year. Pretty much what would be expected in a slumping economy where new home affordability is becoming a more and more important consideration with potential buyers. The average absorbed price of a new single-family home, while still far below larger population centres like Calgary and Edmonton, was up from $569,424 in December 2014 to $601,296 at the end of 2015. Around Central Alberta, most communities saw a drop in overall totals from 2014 to 2015, with much of it coming in the later part of the year as the economic downturn really started to hit home. In the two major centres CMHC records municipal information for, Sylvan Lake and Lacombe, the numbers can be deceiving. For example, even though Lacombe is showing a year to year increase of 62 starts, most of that came in the fourth quarter with the influx of 64 new apartment home starts (see chart B). Take those out and it’s a flat year. That’s the difference one multi-family project can make in a small community. In idyllic Sylvan Lake, meanwhile, while single-family starts were only down four homes from 2014, a closer examination reveals that December 2015 was down by 14 homes, meaning things were rolling along not too badly until recently. In fact, those 14 homes account for almost the entire yearly difference (15). One bad month was all it took. Over in Olds, a quick check of the Town’s monthly building permit statistics on their website shows a total of 38 single detached homes permitted in 2015 and only seven semi-detached or multi-family units — not surprising, since Olds isn’t exactly known as a hotbed of condominium construction. Combined value of the single-family homes was $11,315, 000 which works out to an average

market overview

price of just under $298,000. As with most communities, December 2015 was the worst for Olds with zero residential permits approved. Getting out of the towns and into the surrounding countryside, both Lacombe County and Red Deer County showed small decreases from 2014 totals. In Red Deer County, the decrease was nearly zero (down 2.7 per cent), again mostly in the single-family market. Up Lacombe County way, things look a lot like they did in Sylvan — the numbers are only down a little, but nearly all of the decrease happened in December, a harbinger of things to come in 2016. For homebuyers, while it’s good news that economic conditions and marketplace competition should conspire to keep prices down in the short term, it’s expected that many people will be more cautious than ever when committing to long term investments like a new home.

STARTS BY DWELLING TYPE Quarter 4 2015

Quarter 4 2014

2015 Final

2014 Final

Single family

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

Total

136

Single family

122

126

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

Total

204

238

Single family

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

Total

Single family

107

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

Total

105

Lacombe

Sylvan lake

Lacombe County

Red Deer County

108 Source: CMHC

Chart B

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in the kitchen

Green grass and ham Spring gatherings are the perfect time to go for the glaze BY TA M M I E SO R EN S EN

pring. It means longer days, melting snow and witnessing the seasonal shift from white and dull brown to bright green and florals. There’s a shift in people’s attitudes too, as we start to look forward to getting outside more and sampling a little of that famous Alberta sunshine. For many, our long-awaited spring is cause to celebrate. Add in holidays like Easter, St Patrick’s Day and Mother’s Day, and you have more than enough reasons to consider serving a beautiful glazed ham for your next gathering.

Moscato & Peach Glazed Spring Ham Ingredients

2.5 - 3.5 kg smoked, bone-in half ham 550 ml jar peach preserves 1 c Moscato or other light, sweet wine 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme 1 small shallot - minced 1/2 c packed light brown sugar 1/2 c stone-ground mustard Method

1 Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a shallow roasting pan with foil. 2 Place ham on the rack in roasting pan. 3 Using a medium sized saucepan on med-high heat, bring wine, thyme sprigs and shallot up to boiling. 4

Reduce heat, simmering uncovered until sauce is

reduced by half. 5 Remove from heat and discard thyme sprig and stir in peach preserves, brown sugar and mustard. Set unused glaze aside. 6 Brush half of glaze mixture over ham. 7 Bake uncovered 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting with remaining glaze mixture every 30 minutes. 8 Cover loosely with foil and bake 30 minutes longer. 9 Once the ham is at a minimum of 140 degrees Fahrenheit internal temperature, remove from oven and let rest 15 minutes before slicing.

For this month’s recipe photo shoot, we headed over to Arbor Valley Cabinet Gallery in downtown Red Deer. Their gorgeous custom cabinets are just one of several options they carry that may just inspire not just a meal but a full spring kitchen renewal of your own!

You can reach Tammie Sorensen @foodiewithoutablog on Instagram

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events

Build something fabulous The 2016 Red Deer Home Show has ideas for every project BY S H EL L E Y N E WM A N

pring is the perfect time to consider making a change to your home or yard, and the 2016 Red Deer Home Show is the perfect place to find inspiration for your next project. The 37th annual event runs from March 4 to 6 at Westerner Park, and organizers have an extensive line-up of exhibitors and presenters booked for the show. “The Home Show is incredibly diverse,” says Brandon Bouchard, vice president of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta board of directors and chair of the Home Show committee. “It really is one-stop for anyone looking to build a new construction or to make a change in their home or business.” With approximately 300 exhibitors participating in this year’s Home Show, guests will have the opportunity to see and learn about all areas of indoor and outdoor construction, home building, renovations, design, landscaping and more. In addition to the diversity of exhibitors, the show also features a range of presenters. “Every year, the Red Deer Home Show presents big name, national level celebrities from the DIY and home-building industry,” Bouchard says. “These presentations are open to anyone who attends the show, and it’s all included in the price of your entry ticket.” This year’s celebrity Brandon Bouchard

speaker is Kate Campbell, an expert in the renovation industry and a regular on HGTV Canada. Local expert speakers will also take the stage for presentations throughout the weekend. The variety of speakers and exhibitors means Red Deer’s Home Show is an informative, popular and well-attended event. 10,000 to 15,000 people typically come to the show each year, with 13,000 people Otis the Owl, pictured here with handler Carol Kelly, wildlife in attendance last year. One reason ambassador from the Medicine River Wildlife Centre, was a hit at the show continues to be successful the 2015 Red Deer Home Show. Photo by Harley Hay. is the organizers’ drive to continue adding value to the event — for guests and means businesses can build relationships for exhibitors. “We always speak to attendees and learn from each other, and that helps to and to exhibitors to find out what they liked make the whole industry stronger.” and what worked for them,” Bouchard says. The other key to success Bouchard notes “As organizers, our goal is always to build on is the staff from the local CHBA – CA office. the successes of each show and to make it “The organization and coordination of the better for the next year.” show has become a finely tuned, well-oiled Bouchard has been involved with machine,” he says. “The event has run so well the Home Show for many years, first for so many years because of the staff, in as an exhibitor and more recently as particular Denie Olmstead and Joan Butler, part of the planning committee, and who do amazing work behind-the-scenes.” he’s observed some other key reasons While the CHBA – CA is the producer of for Red Deer’s successful event. the Red Deer Home Show each year, it is also “The exhibitors at the show on-site as an exhibitor, and attendees can connect with the public, visit the booth to learn more about this local and they also have a organization. “People can visit our booth to tremendous opportunity give feedback on the show or to learn more to network with each about memberships,” says Bouchard. “The other,” he explains. CHBA – CA is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, and it’s definitely an organization “That’s a very posithat provides value to local businesses and tive aspect, because it to the home building industry in Central Alberta.”

“Every year, the Red Deer Home Show presents big name, national level celebrities from the DIY and home-building industry.” 14

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For complete details on the 2016 Red Deer Home Show, visit www.reddeerhomeshow.ca

events

QUESTION & ANSWER

With HGTV Canada expert Kate Campbell THE FEATURED SPEAKER at this year’s Red Deer Home Show is Kate Campbell, known best for being part of Paul Lafrance’s team on the Decked Out TV program. Central Alberta Homes & Lifestyles caught up with Kate in advance of the show for a quick Q & A.

What do you know about Red Deer? Have you been here before?

Kate Campbell

“I actually really didn’t know too much about Red Deer,” she admits, “and I’ve never been. My husband lived in Calgary for two years working as a Territory Manager for DeWalt and Red Deer was in his territory, so I asked him to tell me about it. Here’s what he said: Red Deer? It’s due north of Calgary, a beautiful river runs through it, the Red Deer Rebels, Sutter brothers and Ron MacLean call it home — or as Don Cherry would say ‘Red River’! Can you tell my husband plays hockey?”

What will you be talking about at Red Deer Home Show? “I have so much to talk about! The number one question I get asked is, ‘How did you get

into the trades?’ To answer that question, I’ll be diving into my past and talking about my story, talking a bit about the shows I’ve been on in the past ten years I’ve been in the industry. “With summer fast approaching I will be talking about some of my favourite deck products, materials, designs and tips. “Also, Dave (my husband) and I took on a massive project this past year. We bought a 3,500 square foot farmhouse built in 1850 that needed to be completely gutted. It’s been an incredible and sometimes harrowing experience that we’ve documented throughout the whole process and used some of the most amazing materials in the renovation. I plan on sharing my experience as well and compiling a list of what I think are the newest and coolest building materials out there. This is the first really big project I’ve taken on outside of working for someone else so I’ve learned a lot and made mistakes along the way. I can’t wait to share my experience with everyone!”

KATE CAMPBELL has been working in the television and renovation industry for 10 years and has been taught by some of Canada's top renovators. She got into the skilled trades in 2005 and took a "Women In Skilled Trades" (WIST) course which introduced her to carpentry, electrical, plumbing, finish carpentry and several other trades. She can be seen as part of the crew for Mike Holmes and Paul Lafrance, appearing on hit series such as Holmes on Holmes, Decked Out, Disaster Decks and Custom Built. When she’s not working on television, Kate runs her own renovation company, KateBuilds Inc. Kate can next be seen on the new HGTV Canada series Home to Win airing April 24th on HGTV Canada.

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show home profile

Laebon Homes Can-do attitude and commitment to excellence turn dreams into reality

BY T R EEN A M I EL K E

aebon Homes is a perfect example of a dream turned into an exciting, successful reality. In 1976, partners, W.G. (Gord) Bontje and Peter Lacey decided to work together to pool their resources, strengths and vision. During the first year of their partnership, they built two homes. Profits were slim but the foundation for the company, just in its infancy, had been established. That was 40 years ago. Peter Lacey left the company in 1982, but Gord Bontje continued to lead a growing team of award winning professionals to grow the company into a successful entity it is today. Since its inception, Laebon Homes, now Central Alberta’s largest builder, has built more than 4,000 homes in Central Alberta. Homes have been

“We have a home style for everyone, from semi-detached, all types of single family homes to estate homes. We can also build outside our areas in other communities, customer owned land and acreages.”

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constructed in communities including Red Deer, Sylvan Lake, Rocky Mountain House, Penhold, Innisfail, Ponoka, Lacombe and Wetaskiwin, as well as rural areas throughout Central Alberta. “Not only do we build a home, we build the community,” says Brad Shepherd, Community Sales Manager. In all their unique communities in Central Alberta, Laebon is the land developer and this allows them to maintain its stellar reputation and competitive edge in the home building field. No job is too big or too small for Laebon “We have a home style for everyone,

from semi-detached, all types of single family homes to estate homes. We can also build outside our areas in other communities, customer owned land and acreages,” says Kevin Wilkie, Sales Manager. Since its humble beginnings, Laebon Homes has won numerous awards. In 2015 the company was the recipient of the prestigious Builder of the Year (large volume) award, presented by the CHBA-CA and the New Homebuyers Choice Award, presented by the Professional Home Builders Institute. They were also voted top home builder in the annual Red Deer Express Readers’ Choice Awards in 2015. The many awards Laebon has collected over the years are evidence that the company stands behind its promise to do what they say they will do when they say they will do it. “Customer satisfaction is our number one priority. We want every home owner to be happy living in their quality home they paid a great price for” says Wilkie. In keeping with its philosophy of building communities and creating a better world, Laebon Homes supports A Better World Canada, an Alberta based humanitarian organization that serves people in the third world by building desperately needed infrastructure. The company also takes part in a building opportunity program designed and developed to empower Notre Dame High School students with skills of the home building industry. As a credited class, students leave the classroom and learn hands-on while building a real home from the ground up. Brad Shepherd encourages potential homebuyers to consider the benefits of home buying now, while interest rates are low and Alberta is going through an economic downturn.

show home profile

“Property is always a good investment,” he says. But right now there is a great selection of home sites available and interest rates are at all time low.” When the price of oil goes up, prices go up as well, he adds. Laebon Homes brand new semi-detached show home at 3 Thomlinson Avenue in Red Deer is a true testament of the company’s commitment to excellence. The modern craftsman style home features unique exterior accents including stone finishing. The airy 1,318 square-foot two storey semi-detached home includes three bedrooms and two and a half baths. The main floor is a spacious open design with a tucked away half bath. The kitchen features a pantry, tile backsplash, maple cabinets with soft-close doors and drawers. A great oversized island offers plenty of counter space and extended area to sit and enjoy a meal or conversation. The dining room area features sliding patio doors which open onto a large finished deck and plenty of backyard space. The use of large windows allows the rooms to be filled with natural light. Appliances include a fridge, range, dishwasher and over the range microwave. The bedrooms and laundry are located on the upper level and the large master bedroom includes an ensuite and a spacious closet. At the very affordable price of $309,900 this show home is a must see for anyone in the homebuyer’s market. There are also two other larger models that include a single attached garage and choice of three bedrooms or two master bedrooms on the upper floor starting at $332,900.

The modern craftsman style semi-detached home features unique exterior accents including stone finishing.

For more information visit www.laebon.com

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community profile

Melcor Developments Building long-term value for homebuyers in Laredo

BY J I M Z A N G

n the past 30 years, Melcor Developments has created 14 communities in Central Alberta, accounting for 40 per cent of the growth in Red Deer’s population. But for Melcor, it’s about more than numbers. It’s about people, and the opportunity to provide Albertans with the lifestyle they want while making an investment that will stand the test of time. Which is why Melcor is so excited about Laredo.

LIVE IN LAREDO Located on the southeast corner of Red Deer, Laredo is more amenity rich than most communities, says Gregg Broks, Melcor’s Red Deer Region Senior Development Manager. “From the features of the community entry to the fencing, stone columns and architectural controls on housing, we’ve made sure Laredo has a very unique character.” And right now it is the last chance to buy in the very desirable area of southeast Red Deer that’s close to schools and other key amenities. With a total of 559 single-family lots in Laredo, 233 are completed or under construction, leaving 326 lots to choose from. That number includes some new 34-foot wide “narrow lots,” which cost as much as $20,000 less than their larger neighbours. “It’s important to allow buyers the flexibility to choose,” says Broks. Another way Melcor offers choice is in Laredo’s roster of more than 20 active builders. From a 900-square-foot starter home, to a 5,500-square-foot estate home and everything in between, Laredo is designed to be a community in which people can live and grow. Single family home prices start in the low $300,000s and go as high as $1.4 million, although Broks is certain that before this neighbourhood is done, “We’ll see somebody build a $2 million home.“ “There’s such a variety of product that it’s hard to label the typical buyer,” he says. “Our builders have done an exceptional job of providing the kind of quality that adds tremendous value.” So maybe it’s customers that like to get good value. In today’s market, that’s everybody! On the multi-family side of things, the community will also see a couple of apartment-style condo projects, some townhomes and

This master-planned community is familyfriendly, with more than 10 per cent of the space committed to a linear park system connecting various other parks and playgrounds.

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even a few semi-detached villas. “We’ve really created a sense of place, of home, with this community,” says Broks. Including the potential for a major grocery store to set up in the commercial area on 22nd Street. This really enhances the walkability for this neighbourhood. But Laredo isn’t all homes and business. This master-planned community is family-friendly, with more than 10 per cent of the space committed to a linear park system connecting various other parks and playgrounds. Storm ponds are incorporated as landscaping features and public and Catholic schools in neighbouring

communities are only a few blocks away, “The community,” says Broks, “is very well connected.” Whether it’s the location, the lot size, the housing choices provided by a great selection of quality builders, or the access to amenities, the one thing Broks always comes back to is Laredo’s long-term value, “Right now, with these lot and housing prices, Laredo is an exceptional opportunity.”

See

the Kinsmen, and Hospital Lottery

homes in Laredo. There’s also a strong show home presence by local builders. Several are open right now and another collection of homes are scheduled to open in June, 2016 with Laredo Phase 3. For more information visit www.liveinlaredo.ca

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business profile

Red Deer Overdoor It’s an open and shut case! BY J O CK M ACK ENZI E

oors, doors, doors — and more than doors. Red Deer Overdoor installs and services commercial and residential doors but also does mall curtains, security grilles, dock levellers and gate operators. If it opens and closes and needs to be secure, RDO is the place to go. “We’re a family operated business,” says general manager Rob Karol, “and we’ve been around for about 40 years. Through all of the ups and downs, we’ve been here and will continue to be because we’re committed to what we do.” Selling and servicing top of the line

products is key. Albertans know we have a special climate that requires the right products. Steel-Craft in Edmonton provides commercial doors from Thermo Craft, Ranch Craft and Carriage Craft as well as the Esteem Series, the Elite and the Contemporary series for residences. Steel-Craft manufactures and tests

its entire product line in Canada to ensure its durability. Their products are made from recycled materials and with the high R-value can help lower heating and cooling costs. As noted on their web site, “Red Deer Overdoor offers residential overhead doors designed to exceed every expectation.

“Through all the ups and downs, we’ve been here and will contine to be because we’re committed to what we do.”

Rob Karol, second from right, and the Red Deer Overdoor team.

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business profile

Quality products are essential but it’s the quality and quantity of staff that truly bring “closure” to the choices you make. Manufactured with the latest technology in the garage door industry, our residential lines of doors are well insulated, providing security and energy efficiency. Each section of the garage door incorporates a mechanical interlock along its entire length, ensuring no delamination of the steel skin from the urethane. Red Deer Overdoor’s offices, located at 7703 Edgar Industrial Drive, have two showrooms where customers can view doors and door openers… but they proudly add this promise, “if you can’t find what you want, we’ll custom build it for you.” Special paint options are also available so you can match your home or your shop. Quality products are essential but it’s the quality and quantity of staff that truly bring “closure” to the choices you make. Red Deer Overdoor has five commercial crews and five residential crews to make this happen. Many of the staff are longtime employees who are experienced and who have their current and up-to-date tickets. Proper installation is the result and, with periodic maintenance, your doors will be trouble free. Customer comments may provide the highest praise. From A.S.: Great service & professional install! They were even able to replace my garage door the same day. From C.T.: Truly amazing service and advice. Plus a very reasonable price compared to another installer to change out my garage tension springs. Thank you guys. From D.P.: Super quick and friendly! They did a great job of fixing our garage door. In the words of entertainer Milton Berle, “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” And if Milton Berle was from Red Deer, he’d say, “get Red Deer Overdoor to build it for you.”

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people

Charting the course Scott Robinson leads the operations for the 2019 Canada Winter Games BY S H EL L E Y N E WM A N

Scott Robinson outside his office at the former Central Middle School Building.

P H OTO BY M A R C EL K E AY S

2019 Canada Winter Games board of directors. Photo courtesy 2019 Canada Winter Games.

hen Scott Robinson talks about the upcoming 2019 Canada Winter Games in Red Deer, it’s almost hard to imagine the scope of what he describes. Right now, his office is located in a nearly-empty wing of the former Central Middle School building, and he works with a staff of two. Soon, though, he will be surrounded by an increasing number of staff and then dozens, hundreds and, eventually, thousands of volunteers, all working hard to make the grand vision of the games come to life. “Right now, it does feel a bit like drinking from a fire hose,” says Robinson, who is the chief executive officer for the Host Society of the 2019 Canada Winter Games. “But it’s really about staying focused and developing a strong plan now that will provide a solid foundation for all of the pieces that need to come together for the games.” As CEO, Robinson is the lead for everything related to the operations side of the two-week national event. He reports to and works with the board of directors, which is responsible for the governance side of the games. “We have a tremendous board, with people who bring high-level experience from diverse areas,” Robsinson says. “For a big undertaking like this, it’s so critical to get the right people in the right seats, and the board members have definitely proven what they’re capable of.” And the board is also confident about

“I like the opportunity to work with others to build projects from scratch, and that’s a really exciting part of this process for me.” 24

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what Robinson brings to his role. “Scott is doing a great job of pulling in all of the elements and making sense of the hundreds of pieces of this puzzle,” says Lyn Radford, chair of the 2019 Canada Winter Games Host Society board of directors. “As a board, when we were first developing a wish list for characteristics that our CEO would have, we were looking for a person with governance and operations knowledge, some games experience and knowledge of the region, and Scott certainly has all of those qualities.” Robinson’s career has focused on athletics and sport, starting with his post-secondary education. “I attended Red Deer College and then transferred to the University of Alberta, where I received my degree in sport administration,” Robinson explains. Upon graduation, he worked with Athletics Alberta and then took a job with Hockey Alberta in Red Deer in 1992. “I started by working with high performance athletes and was the manager of hockey development for the Team Alberta men’s and women’s hockey teams at the 1995 and 1999 Canada Winter Games,” he says. “I switched to the marketing and communications side of things and then on to senior leadership positions.” In 2005, he had an opportunity to

PHOTO BY SHELLE Y NE WM A N

people

be part of starting the Hockey Alberta Foundation and worked as its executive director until 2015. “Scott and I worked together on several projects, and he’s a great communicator and leader,” says Gary Seher, former director with the Hockey Alberta Foundation. “He was instrumental in all areas of the Foundation, and one of his strengths was communicating with high-level groups to get cooperation at the provincial level.” Seher notes some special projects Robinson worked on included creating the ‘Every Kid, Every Community’ program to provide youth with the opportunity to participate in sports, and he also developed a scholarship program for post-secondary students. “These programs are really pillars of our organization,” he says. “I’m a builder at heart,” Robinson says. “I like the opportunity to work with others to build projects from scratch, and that’s a really exciting part of this process for me.” Working on the Canada Winter Games in his home community is another exciting element for Robinson. “My family lived in Red Deer when I was four and five years old,” he says. “Then my dad got a job in the Edmonton area, and we moved there. I grew up and attended school in Stony Plain, but then came back to Red Deer to go to college and try out for the RDC hockey team.” While he didn’t make that team, Robinson did stay and attend RDC and pursue a career in sport administration. When given the opportunity to return to Central Alberta for a job at Hockey Alberta, he jumped at the chance. “I’ve lived here full time since 1992, and it’s definitely home.” Robinson’s two daughters — Kiera, who is 14 and Megan, who is eight — were born in Red Deer and are each involved in many activities in the community. His parents, Sheila and Dennis, currently live in Edmonton but are also considering moving back to Red Deer to be closer to their son and granddaughters. With his family and connections to the

“I’m so humbled to be the steward for the games, and I don’t think I could ask for anything better than to do this in my home community.” community, Robinson feels honoured to be the CEO of the 2019 Canada Winter Games, and he is focused on achieving the step-by-step tasks that are essential to prepare for the event. A big part of this will be getting the team of staff and volunteers on board to carry out the activities for the games. “Through Scott’s experience at Hockey Alberta, he really understands the powerful impact that a team of staff and volunteers have when they’re working together,” says Radford. When Robinson considers the scope of the event, he believes “these games will be our equivalent to Vancouver in 2010 or Calgary in 1988 — it will be that big for Red Deer.” As one of the key players charting the path for the implementation of the games, he admits there will be some learning and growing along the way, but is confident the community will put on a wonderful

event. “The 2019 Canada Winter Games are about the community, with people coming together leading up to and during the event and also establishing a legacy piece that will continue long after,” he says. “I’m so humbled to be the steward for the games, and I don’t think I could ask for anything better than to do this in my home community.”

It takes a village ROBINSON NOTES THE 2019 Canada Winter Games in Red Deer “will probably be the biggest civic event for community involvement since World War II.” What does this mean for volunteer requirements? At games time in February of 2019, organizers anticipate that close to 5,000 volunteers will be needed. But the calls for volunteers

will happen in phases. In the summer of 2016, volunteers will be required for planning purposes, and then a larger call for volunteers will begin 12 to 18 months before the event, with additional calls happening closer to the time. Stay tuned to the 2019 Canada Winter Games Facebook page or website at www.canadagames.ca for more information.

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entertainment Reed Deer Symphony Orchestra

A Night at the Symphony The Red Deer Symphony Orchestra strikes all the right notes

Naomi Delafield

Chandra Kastern

or violinist Naomi Delafield, there’s really only one way to describe a night at the symphony. Magic. “People talk about experiencing the ride of their life while listening to the powerful sounds of a large symphonic piece,” says the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra concert master. “It’s fun to make magic on stage and be part of something that’s unique and special for Red Deer.” Established in 1987 as a non-profit community orchestra, the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra is now one of the only professional orchestras for a city this size in Canada. And that sets Red Deer apart from other communities, says Delafield, a violinist from Lacombe who has been performing with the symphony for the past decade. “It’s a gem that we’re just really lucky to have here in Red Deer,” she says. “We have such a strong focus on the arts here, and it’s something very precious that we must go out of our way to make sure we never lose.” “Without a symphony, life would not be so rich.” And musicians come from “all over” for a chance to perform with the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra. “We engage with professional unionized musicians that live across Alberta,” says Chandra Kastern, executive director for the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra. Right now, the symphony has almost 30 musicians — five from Central Alberta—under contract, with additional musicians brought in depending on the performance. And because the Red Deer Symphony is able to draw from such a large pool of professional musicians, the performances are world-class. “It’s mind-blowing how high-quality Red Deer’s orchestra is,” says Kastern. “I really believe that we’re one of the best-kept arts secrets in the city.” Central Albertans are in for a “pleasant

surprise” when they attend the symphony, she adds. “We have a reputation — both with our audience and within the artistic world — of unique and highly challenging programming.” Lead violist Dean O’Brien agrees. “Everybody in the orchestra is a trained musician, so people take it seriously,” says O’Brien, who is based in Calgary. “They show up prepared, and I think we put a good product on stage.” Generally, performances are held six to eight times a year at the Red Deer College Arts Centre, showcasing “a variety of music from different style periods and countries,” says O’Brien. “You get a wide spectrum of what an orchestra can do.”

PH OTOS CO U R T E SY R DSO

BY J EN N I F ER B L A I R

Dean O’Brien

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entertainment

Music director and conductor Claude Lapalme develops musical line-ups that are both interesting and entertaining. “We try to walk the fine line between art and entertainment. People never know exactly what it is that we’re going to do next,” says Lapalme. “We’re fun. We have a good repertoire, and we present it well.” Throughout the course of a season, the symphony ranges from 17th century classics to brand-new pieces that have never before been performed. Central Albertans will hear everything from Beethoven to Celtic Christmas carols at the symphony. “It’s a lovely way to spend an evening,” says Lapalme. “You get to hear something you’ve never heard before, Did you know…the Red Deer Symphony as well as things that have proven Orchestra only rehearses as a group two to through the test of time to be great three days before a performance? masterpieces.” That’s the benefit of working with By offering such a wide range of professional musicians, says executive director performances, the Red Deer Symphony Chandra Kastern. “The music goes out to Orchestra is able to appeal to everybody, the musicians at least a month ahead of the says Kastern. “There’s this idea that the concert, which gives them time to prepare symphony is for the ‘upper-crust.’ But individually. Because they are professional really, what we’re trying to do in Red musicians, they are pretty skilled at nailing a piece before they show up to a rehearsal.”

The professional touch

Deer is make symphonic music accessible and appealing to everybody.” “It’s not like what you see on TV—the stuffy, long, boring production that is stereotyped on TV,” adds O’Brien. “The music is engaging; it speaks to us today. The orchestra is sometimes portrayed as high-brow, but it really is for everybody.” And despite some of the myths that surround the symphony, “we don’t have a dress code,” says Kastern. “The Red Deer Symphony Orchestra is far from stuffy.” “We create music in an environment that is friendly, and you can hear it right here in Red Deer instead of getting in your car and taking highway 2 to Edmonton and Calgary,” says Lapalme. And Central Albertans should come to see—or hear—it for themselves, O’Brien adds. “Red Deer’s quite remarkable to have an orchestra like it does. It’s very unique,” he says. “And I bet it will not be what you expect from a symphony.”

To check out what the Red Deer Symphony has in store this season, visit www.yoursymphony.rdso.ca

ne of the most “invaluable” things the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra contributes to our community is its education and outreach programs, says executive director Chandra Kastern. “Probably the most significant thing we contribute to the community is an opportunity for music education that the schools just couldn’t deliver on their own,” she says. The most notable program is Choir Kids, which brings together elementary school choirs from across the city to perform with the symphony. “We ask the schools to choose music from what they prepare with their choirs, and we arrange the music with a small orchestra of about 12 people,”

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says music director Claude Lapalme. “We’re possibly the only symphony that does this. It’s very unique.” And popular, too. “We try to accommodate 18 to 20 schools, but those spots fill up really, really quickly,” says Lapalme. In addition to programs like Choir Kids, the Red Deer Symphony also hosted a public concert as part of the Jazz at the Lake concert series in 2015. And the event was a “huge musical success,” says Eric Allison, Jazz at the Lake co-ordinator. “We came up with this crazy idea of having a RDSO performance featuring jazz artists. The more we talked

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PHOTOGR A PHY BY RED UMBRELL A

RDSO in the community

about it, the more it seemed like a viable idea,” he says. “To do partnerships with other nonprofits is always beneficial, and the more opportunity that folks have to experience difference kinds of culture and different styles of music is very enriching for everyone.”

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getting to know

Chris Beaumont Abbey Master Builder BY J I M Z A N G

or Forrest Gump, life was “like a box of chocolates”. For Chris Beaumont, General Manager at Abbey Master Builder, it’s more like a rollercoaster. “The economy is cyclical,” he says, “or like a rollercoaster. It will improve soon enough, and people who have learned from this and previous downturns will not only survive, but come out stronger in the end.” And Beaumont is in a position to know. As the GM at Abbey he makes decisions and solves problems on a regular basis. Not only is he responsible for overseeing the company’s 25 staff members, but he regularly liaises with trades and suppliers, manages budgets and has a hand in planning future land development and lot purchasing. As a member of the Canadian Home Builders Association – Central Alberta Region’s board of directors he sits on the Membership Services Committee, the Awards of Excellence Committee and the Builder Council. Prior to that the Red Deer native and NAIT grad spent 20 years working for the City of Red Deer in the Engineering and Public Works departments, putting his Engineering Design and Drafting diploma to good use. Even before that, his very first job, ever, was working as a labourer for a home builder. As a life-long Red Deer resident and avid outdoorsman, enjoying activities like skiing, mountain biking and hiking, Chris has seen the region grow and appreciates all it has to offer.

Simply put, the Deer Park resident and proud father of a 21-year-old daughter is in a unique position to really see the ‘big picture’. The biggest challenge facing most people today, he says, not just the home building industry, is the economy. “It may not affect everyone’s job, but it does affect everyone’s opinion. People are hesitant to move forward with any big purchases right now.” The low Canadian dollar is having an affect too, he says, as many of the products used to build homes come from south of the border and are purchased in U.S. dollars. Suppliers and trades have been good about working with builders to keep costs down but recently have had to pass some of the expense on to builders who, in turn, have to either absorb the increases or pass it on to the consumer — something builders don’t want to do in what’s clearly a buyers’ market right now.

With challenges, however, also come opportunities, says Chris. “Mortgages are at an all-time low and there is less demand so competition is driving the price of homes down. It’s an opportunity for buyers because home prices are the lowest they have been in years.” Meanwhile, on the builder side of the equation, there’s also a bit of a silver lining. “Homebuilders have a great opportunity right now to refine and improve their systems,” he says, “provide additional training for staff and generally improve their operation so that when sales increase — and we know they will — they will be stronger and ready to meet the increased demand.” His common-sense advice to would-be home buyers? “Be realistic about what you can afford,” he says. “Research the builders you are interested in, gather information and make an informed ‘apples to apples’ comparison. With competitive pricing, record low mortgage rates, new home warranty, low maintenance and energy efficient building materials and processes, modern appliances, choice of location and the chance to design the home the way you want, now is a great time to buy a new home.”

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CENTRAL ALBERTA Community Residential Development Map

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RED DEER

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you said it

What’s your favourite restaurant and what is your favourite thing to eat there?

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BY S H A E PAT ER SO N

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Cora, eggs benedict. Kristen, customer service

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Abigail, age 6

Red Boar Smokery, sandwiches. Nathan, mobile consultant

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Red Boar Smokery, meat platter. Amanda, sales representative

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Boston Pizza, just the pizzas.

East Side Marios, pasta. Janelle, stay at home Mom

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Jenna, sales representative

Anthony, age 6

Phil’s Family Restaurant. Jazlyn, age 3

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Mr. Mikes, the Mr. Mike Burger.

Boston Pizza, spaghetti.

Eko Japan, chicken teriyaki stir fry. Melody, marketing manager

Thank you to Parkland Mall for allowing Central Alberta Homes & Lifestyles to take pictures at the Mall. 34

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