4
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
summer 2016 | issue 16
contents 20
13
Lifestyles 9 Focus On
27
38
Back yard bliss. It’s no secret that Central Albertans retreat to their backyards to spend time outdoors
13 In the Kitchen
Barbecue ribs Delicious recipe gives new meaning to ‘pigging out’
15
15 Events
Westerner Days 125 years of community celebrations!
19 Events
Fore a good cause CHBA – Central Alberta golf tourney supports students
9 COV ER PHOTO BY BRI A N MCL AUGHLIN
27 Culture | Entertainment
50 things to see and do In Central Alberta
30 People
Sweet connections BJ Tumanut came to Red Deer for business, but stayed for the lifestyle
35 Getting to Know
Tyler Hansen Melcor Developments
38 You Said It
Are you going anywhere for summer vacation?
Homes 11 Market Overview
Mixed bag. Big picture reveals differences between markets
20 Feature
Diamonds are forever Awards of Excellence in Housing celebrates CHBA – Central Alberta’s 60th Anniversary
32 Feature
Thanks for the memories 60th Anniversary of CHBA – Central Alberta
Items 6 Message from the chief executive officer 36 Maps Central Alberta and Red Deer
30
new communities
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
5
message from the chief executive officer
Congratulations and thank you Many congratulations and thank yous are in order this month, so I’ll try to work them all in and hope I don’t miss anyone. First, congrats to all the winners and finalists in the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta Region’s annual Awards of Excellence in Housing. Once again our local CHBA members — developers, builders, suppliers, trades and professional services — have outdone themselves, working together to make Red Deer and Central Alberta one of the most liveable, and affordable, places to live in this great province. You can check out photos of the gala awards event, plus a complete list of winners, starting on page 20. Thank you to all our members for doing such a great job of representing our Association, and thanks also to everyone who made the evening possible. From the conference, catering and kitchen staff at the Sheraton, to our emcee and AV production crew, to the entertainers and all the CHBA volunteers and staff, it takes a true team effort to make it all come together. Special congrats, also, and thank you, to all past CHBA – CA members, volunteers and presidents for getting us to where we are today — the celebration of our 60th anniversary as an organization. It’s been CHBA – CA Chief Executive Officer a long journey with many twists and turns along Denie Olmstead and staffers Joan the way and it’s thanks to the leadership of our past Butler and Sharon Stange received special thanks from CHBA – CA presidents and engagement of members that we’ve members. come this far. You can follow the path yourself on pages 32 and 33, and take a walk down memory lane with some of our past presidents as they share some of their fondest memories. Of course our big awards event means we’re officially headed into summer and that means there’s lots of things to see and do in Central Alberta. How many things? At least 50, according to writer Shelley Newman, who lists them for us on pages 27–29. There’s probably more than that out there, but you’ve got to draw the line somewhere and we drew it at 50. And, if you thought 60 years was something to celebrate, how about 125?! That’s how old Red Deer’s Westerner Days celebration is and in lieu of a cake with 125 candles we’ve put together a great feature article with a bunch of very cool historic photos. Whether you’re a newcomer to the area or a longtime resident, I know you’ll find something of interest in both the article and down at the fairgrounds. And, since we’re all about summer fun this edition, be sure to check out the photos from our tropical-themed CHBA – CA golf tournament, browse the outdoor furnishings on our Focus On page, and then fire up the barbecue for some of the best home-cooked ribs ever. Take my word for it, they were delicious. Sincerely,
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
#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 Sharon Stange | Administration Assistant info@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 DESIGNER | Dave Macaulay, Vivian Zhang PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR | Colleen Leier CONTRIBUTORS | Tanya Lee, Jock Mackenzie, Shelley Newman, Shae Paterson, Tammie Sorensen, Laurette Woodward 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.
Denie Olmstead Chief Executive Officer CHBA – Central Alberta
6
CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION – CENTRAL ALBERTA represents professionals in the housing industry. CHBA – Central Alberta has been in existence for over 60 years and is a network of professionals that manages industry issues to provide value to our members.
SUMMER
2 016
8
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
focus on
1
2
Back yard bliss It’s no secret that Central Albertans retreat to their backyards to spend time outdoors with family and friends at the first hint of spring. Here are just a few ideas from some local sources to help turn your back yard into your own private resort. 3
BY TA N YA L EE
4
1 Windchime Glass Bottles. $20 at Blue Grass Nurser y. 2 Debbie Travis Collection Rosseau Seven Piece Dining and Conversation Set. $2,199.97 available exclusively at Sears department stores or online at www.sears.ca. 3 Mosaic Table and benches. $975 at Blue Grass Nurser y. 4 Indiana Fire Pit. $600 at Parkland Nurseries.
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
9
Mixed bag Big picture reveals differences between markets BY J I M Z A N G
T
he first quarter housing start numbers are in across the board for Central Alberta and, other than a couple of blips on the radar, things aren’t that bad. Or, put another way, they could be worse. Not exactly a ringing endorsement of the market but, to use a couple of clichés: it is what it is, and we like to keep it real. Much of the slow-down in the area is centralized in Red Deer, the so-called heart of the market. Singlefamily new home starts in 2016 are down a full 65 per cent from the first four months of last year, from 98 to 36 houses (see Chart A). The multi-family segment has also taken a bit of a hit, dropping from 248 units to 169, a decrease of 32 per cent. This trend of the multifamily category staying stronger than single-family is consistent with other larger populations centres such as Calgary and Edmonton also and has a lot to do with affordability of those products. Out in many of the smaller communities, it’s a bit of a mixed bag but, overall, the numbers have remained a tad more consistent year-to-year. For example, Lacombe had 10 single family starts in the first quarter of 2014, 11 the first quarter of 2015, and 10 again this year. Red Deer County is similar, with the stats showing a change from seven homes in 2014, to 10 in 2015 and back down to nine in 2016 — just a single home off last year’s first quarter pace. Out in cottage country, housing starts in Sylvan Lake continue to hum along. In fact, total starts are only down a single home — one house! — from 53 in the first quarter of last year to 52 so far in 2016. Single family starts are down from last year, but are even with 2014 numbers. Looking at the 2015 final totals, things are right on pace to hit the 200-home mark again. Meanwhile, they’re singing a slightly different tune in Lacombe County and Olds, where total starts (all single family) have dropped 60 and 67 per cent respectively. However, those changes look bigger than they really are — that’s the danger of playing with percentages — as actual decreases were only three to six homes. In terms of dollars and cents, Red Deer comes in right in the middle, just like it does geographically (see Chart B).
market overview
Chart A HOUSING STARTS Red Deer
January
February
March
April
YTD 2015
YTD 2016
Single family
7
7
11
11
98
36
Semi-detached
2
2
0
2
8
6
Row
0
0
0
9
8
9
Apartment
0
130
24
0
232
154
Total
9
139
35
22
346
205
Quarter 1 2016
Quarter 1 2015
Quarter 1 2014
2015 Final
Lacombe Single family
10
11
10
46
Semi-detached
0
0
2
18
Row
0
0
0
8
Apartment
0
0
0
64
Total
10
11
12
136
Single family
20
36
20
122
Semi-detached
6
4
0
24
Sylvan lake
Row
22
13
22
55
Apartment
4
0
24
3
Total
52
53
66
204
Single family
5
8
11
64
Semi-detached
0
0
0
0
Row
0
0
0
0
Apartment
0
0
0
0
Total
5
8
11
64
Single family
9
10
7
84
Semi-detached
0
0
0
0
Lacombe County
Red Deer County
Row
0
0
0
13
Apartment
0
0
0
8
Total
9
10
7
105
Single family
3
9
-
38
Semi-detached
2
0
-
4
Apartment
0
0
-
3
Total
5
9
-
45
Olds
Source: CMHC
Chart B
MARCH 2016 AVERAGE ABSORBED SINGLE-FAMILY PRICE Calgary
Edmonton
Red Deer
Medicine Hat
Lethbridge
$660,078 $579,623 $548,409 $462,056 $412,935 Source: CMHC
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
11
in the kitchen
Barbecue ribs
Delicious recipe gives new meaning to ‘pigging out’
BY TA M M I E SO R EN S EN
N
o new home is complete without an outdoor living space. And, whether you prefer an expansive sun deck or a cozy patio for two, propane or natural gas grill, you also need the perfect ‘go-to’ barbecue recipe. Barbecues are perfect for intimate gatherings, week-night family meals and all the way up to large events such as the CHBA Central Alberta’s 60th Anniversary Barbecue planned for this September. Delicious and easy, this recipe is perfect for any occasion and can be doubled (or more) and prepared ahead of time if you are entertaining a large group.
Cola Barbecue Ribs for six Ingredients 1.5 litre bottle of cola or Dr. Pepper 6 cloves garlic 1 large onion 2 bay leaves 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns 1.5 to 2 kg (approx. 4 lbs) baby back ribs Method 1 Peel and squish the garlic and quarter the onion. 2 In a large pot, add the cola, onion, garlic, bay leaves and peppercorns. 3 Add the ribs and top up with a bit of water so that the ribs are completely covered. 4 Bring to boil and reduce heat to a simmer. 5 Turn the ribs occasionally, and simmer until the meat starts to pull away from the bone. This takes approximately an hour.
Sauce 1/3 cup unsalted butter 1 small onion 2 cloves of garlic 1/4 cup dark brown sugar 1 1/2 Tbsp yellow mustard
1 cup ketchup 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 355 ml can cola Salt and pepper to taste
1 While the ribs are simmering, make the sauce (can be made up to 5 days ahead and stored in the fridge). Dice the onion and the garlic and with the butter, brown sugar, mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and can of Cola in large heavy sauce pan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for about 25 minutes. Reduce by stirring often until sauce is thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper and let cool slightly. Once cooled, use an immersion blender (or counter-top blender) to puree the sauce. 2 Preheat the grill to high. 3 Remove the ribs from the pot. Pat dry, then season with salt and pepper. Generously brush on your sauce. Place on the grill, turning often, until you get a nice char (5-8 minutes depending on grill). Tent finished ribs with foil and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve with remaining sauce on the side. Corn on the Cob Add some grilled corn on the cob topped with Sriracha butter for the perfect sweet and spicy meal! To make Sriracha butter, blend 1 cup salted butter with 1/4 cup Sriracha. Spread this over freshly grilled corn on the cob (wrap cobs in foil and grill on upper rack for half hour), sprinkling with a little flat leaf parsley before serving.
You can reach Tammie Sorensen @foodiewithoutablog on Instagram
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
13
14
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
events
Westerner Days 125 years of community celebration! BY L AU R E T T E WO O DWA R D
O
ne of Central Alberta’s favourite summer events is also celebrating an important anniversary this year. Westerner Days Fair & Exposition is set to kick off with a parade on July 20, and will run until July 24. This year marks the 125th anniversary of the event. When it started in 1892, Red Deer’s population was about 150 people. Now more than 100,000 individuals call the city home. The population change is reflected by the changes in the event, as the simple harvest celebration has grown into one of the biggest events of the year. It was 1892, when Westerner Days got its start. That fact can be confusing to some. If you think 1892 + 125 = 2017… it seems there has been an error. But, just remember that when you start an event, people call it “the first annual.” Because they start with “one” and not “zero,” the years might, at first, seem to be off by one year. The Red Deer Agricultural Society, founded in 1891, organized the first annual event to “give new settlers a chance to show off their produce and livestock,” says Michael Dawe, Archivist with the City of Red Deer. The Society intentionally “publicized results, in the hopes they would attract others to move to the area, seeing what could be produced here.” In addition to marketing the area to newcomers, organizers also intended for the event to provide an educational opportunity for existing local producers. “They’d receive tips on how to improve what they did, like tips on new types of wheat,” says Dawe. And the fall event provided a much needed community celebration.
ABOVE: Wilkins Block (behind (right side) the bakery). Site of the first Red Deer Fair in 1892. Photo courtesy Red Deer Archives.
LEFT: Today’s fair grounds. Photo courtesy Tourism Red Deer.
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
15
events
ED DEER ARCHIVES PH OTOS CO U R T E SY R
Early in its time at Alexandra Park, the annual event became more focused on outdoor entertainment rather than primarily agricultural based activities. That first annual fair was held in a building on current day Ross Street. The next year it was moved to the Round House at the Railyards, west of the old CPR station and close to current day Superstore. By 1902, the organization had purchased fair grounds close to where the downtown arena is today. They named it ‘Alexandra Park’ and it became the event’s home for about eighty years. Over those decades a grandstand and a track for horse races were added. While Red Deer always had horse races, it never became a rodeo town like Calgary did. In the mid-1950’s the kick off parade became an annual occurrence. Some notable ‘one time’ events happened at Alexandra Park as well, including Red Deer’s first visit from an airplane, in 1918, flown by a female pilot, Katherine Stinson. Also, during WWI, soldiers used the fair-grounds as a training space for marching and other drills. Early in its time at Alexandra Park, the annual event became more focused on outdoor entertainment rather than primarily agricultural based activities. Horse racing and a midway were added. Also, Westerner Days was moved, on the calendar, to summer time. “Canada is not known for its long summers,” says Dawe, saying people enjoy taking advantage of the warm weather. “Summer fairs are a part of Canadian culture and heritage. That they continue to draw crowds today shows their durability and attractiveness.” During the 1970s Red Deer experienced rapid growth. By the early 1980s Red Deer’s population had grown to 40,000 plus. Alexandra Park was no longer at the edge of town; the city had grown up around it. The location was becoming crowded. A new spot was required.
TOP TO BOTTOM: Livestock Parade in front of Red Deer Exhibition grandstand, 1912. Soldiers training in front of the Exhibits building at the Red Deer Fairgrounds, 1915. Soldiers of the 89th Battalion, C.E.F. on the racetrack by the Red Deer Exhibition grandstand, 1916. Parade in front of Red Deer Grandstand, 1927.
16
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
events
LEFT: Red Deer Exhibition Grounds, looking south, 1968. BELOW: Red Deer Fair Midway, 1938.
In 1983, after several years of planning, the Westerner Exhibition Association (what had originally been the Agricultural Society), welcomed Red Deer’s residents to the new location that is still used today, south of the Bower community. What is now the Prairie and Stockmen’s Pavilion was one of the early buildings on that site. The Centrium was added in 1991 and now that complex of facilities comfortably hosts the summer Westerner Days & Exhibition in July every year as well as hundreds of other events annually. What started as a small event in 1892 has grown significantly over the past 125 years, not only with its location but also with its focus. A lot has changed. What has remained consistent, according to Dawe, is that “Westerner Days continues to build community through entertainment and culture.”
PH OTOS CO U R T E SY R ED DEER ARCHIVES
“Summer fairs are a part of Canadian culture and heritage. That they continue to draw crowds today shows their durability and attractiveness.”
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
17
Westerner Exposition Float in the annual Westerner Parade, July 1989.
WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO FOR 2016? “Westerner Days Fair & Exposition will continue the tradition it has set for the last 125 years: delivering a top quality, truly authentic, action-packed event to the people of Central Alberta and Western Canada,” says Ben Antifaiff, Westerner Park, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager. “Our anniversary year will celebrate the foundational role the community plays in our success.” Entertainers on their way to Red Deer in July include: The Washboard Union, Chad Brownlee, DJ Spinderella, Salt ‘n’ Pepa, Prism, and Moist. There will also be many more live entertainment opportunities on the grounds daily. The returning favorites list includes: the President’s Choice Super Dogs, Red Deer Motors North American Pony Chuckwagon Championships, and the Petting Zoo. If you’re a fireworks fan you’re in luck this year. Instead of fireworks happening just on
Looking at the new plans for the Westerner Exposition Grounds, l-r Mal Hough, Elmer Stoyberg, and Glen Good. 1988.
18
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
“Westerner Days Fair & Exposition will continue the tradition it has set for the last 125 years.”
PH OTO CO U R T E SY R ED D EER A RCH I V E S
PH OTO CO U R T E SY R ED D EER A RCH I V E S
events
SUMMER
2 016
Friday, this year there will be a light show every evening from Wednesday to Saturday, weather permitting. “This year’s Westerner Days campaign is about embracing your inner Westerner,” says Meghan Gustum, Westerner Park, Marketing Manager. “We want build on our guest’s emotional connection with Westerner Days. We invite our guests take in our 125th anniversary and to share their traditions and rituals through images and their stories, and let us know how Westerner Days has become a part of their personal story.” There are also 20+ offsite events throughout Red Deer during Westerner Days like pancake breakfasts, chili cook-offs, barn dances and other celebrations, including the kick off parade. That will run through the downtown core on Wednesday July 20 beginning at 9:30 a.m. Last year, Westerner Days welcomed 99,614 people over the course of the fair, and they’re hoping to break the 100,000 mark in 2016, so make sure to get out and join in the festivities. Special thanks to Michael Dawe at City of Red Deer Archives for his help. For more information visit www.westernerdays.ca, or to share your Westerner Days stories and photos visit the Westerner Days Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/WesternerDaysFairExposition.
events
Fore a good cause
CHBA – Central Alberta golf tourney supports students
T
he theme was ‘tropical’ for the 88 golfers who showed up Friday, June 3 at Alberta Springs in grass skirts, coconut bikini tops and assorted other outfits more suited to a tacky tourist contest than a golf course for the annual CHBA – Central Alberta golf tournament. And, while the team from Larkaun Homes might have won the golf, the real winners are the recipients of Red Deer College and Olds College trade scholarship program supported by proceeds donated from the tournament.
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
19
feature
Diamonds are forever Awards of Excellence in Housing celebrates CHBA – Central Alberta’s 60th Anniversary BY J I M Z A N G | P H OTO G R A P H Y BY D O N M O LY N E AUX
W
ow! What a show! James Bond would have been right at home with the more than 500 members of Central Alberta’s home building industry, their guests, invited dignitaries and media who showed up dressed to thrill at the Sheraton May 14 for the annual Awards of Excellence in Housing. For sure Bond wouldn’t have been able to resist having a martini from the ice sculpture martini bar, shaken, not stirred, or a glass of champagne poured by an artist from Fire Fly Theatre & Circus as they hang upside down from the ceiling. Meanwhile, a Charlie Chaplin lookalike moves about solely by standing and walking on top of an oversize exercise ball, and a lone unicyclist has also somehow gotten loose in the room. In the corner the Greg Boulay Trio sets the mood with the theme song from Diamonds Are Forever. Not really, but they do lay down a bunch of very cool original versions of some popular tunes.
20
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
Even an international super spy with a taste for caviar appreciates a good slice of tender Alberta prime rib with fresh veggies, followed by raspberry crème brulet and, of course, the funny money casino night afterwards is like going to 007 heaven. Unlike in the movies, however, the diamonds in this story aren’t being used by an evil genius to build a special laser beam to shoot down satellites — instead they’re the focal point of table centerpieces that celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta. Even the boxes of chocolates on the tables are in the shape of little diamonds. And, as both outgoing president Lori Erickson and incoming grand pubah Brandon Bouchard both emphasized in their address to the crowd, there’s plenty to celebrate. Not only is it a milestone anniversary for the local chapter of the CHBA, but
feature
it’s a huge night for many members as their past year of hard work is officially recognized. And, let’s not kid ourselves, it’s been a tough year. Which is why all of this year’s official Awards of Excellence in Housing winners, finalists and, in fact, any developer, builder, supplier, trade or related business that survived 2015 have every reason to celebrate. Final honours of the evening came in the way of a huge ‘Thank You’ from the Association — it’s more of a large extended family, really — to the employees of the CHBA-Central Alberta for all of their hard work on behalf of the industry. Thanks Denie Olmstead, Joan Butler and Sharon Stange. Not lost amongst all the hanging, cycling, bouncing, eating, drinking and award winning was the real highlight of the show, with CHBA – Central Alberta members taking the stage to challenge other companies to match their donations to Fort McMurray. Not to mention the more than $40,000 the evening raised for the Build a Kid to Cure campaign. It was so, well, Alberta. We take time to celebrate our accomplishments, but we never forget those less fortunate. While we honour our own home building industry, we’re in a special position to help the thousands of people, our Alberta neighbours, who have lost theirs. Even James Bond would have been impressed.
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
21
feature
2016 Awards of Ex 2016 BES T OF TH E Y E A R AWA R DS Builder of the Year small volume
Mason Martin Homes
Builder of the Year - large volume
Falcon Homes
Renovator of the Year
Bowood Homes
22
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
feature
cellence In Housing BES T N E W HOM E: SI NGLE FA M I LY HOM E W ITH OR W ITHOUT GA R AGE: Best New Home Up to $224,999 • Mason Martin Homes – 118 Village • Falcon Homes – The Rafferty • MC Homes Ltd. – The Bridgeport • Unique Elevations – The Olson/Paltao Residence Best New Home Between $225,000 - $259,999 • Abbey Master Builder – Lismore • Abbey Master Builder – Rushton • Falcon Homes – The Cove • Laebon Homes – Sterling Best New Home Between $260,000 - $299,999 • Abbey Master Builder – Hillcrest • Laebon Homes – Melanie • MC Homes – Lawrence Ross Residence • Platinum Homes – Lewis Residence Best New Home Between $300,000 - $374,999 • Colbray Homes – Greystone II • Falcon Homes – Custom Capstone • Mason Martin Homes – 4273 Ryders • Sorento Custom Homes – The Larose
Best New Home Between $375,000 - $449,999 • Mason Martin Homes – 105 Lalor • Mason Martin Homes – 149 Lazaro • Henderson Homes Ltd. – Williams Residence • Unique Elevations – the Croswell/ Johnstone Residence
Best New Home Between $600,000 - $674,999 • Mason Martin Homes – 5 Vienna • Falcon Homes – The Casabella • Platinum Homes – Gunnlaugson Residence • Sorento Custom Homes – The Vienna
Best New Home Between $450,000 – $524,999 • Colbray Homes – Morningside • Colbray Homes – Farnel • Falcon Homes – Custom Bungalow • Platinum Homes – Ryckman Residence Best New Home Between $525,000 – $599,999 • Sorento Custom Homes – the Belleterre • Sorento Custom Homes – The Moderna • Krest Homes – Vault • Scarlett Built Homes – 45 Ash Close
Best New Estate Home Between $750,000 - $999,999 • Scarlett Built Homes – The Mystique • Krest Homes – The Works • Larkaun Homes Ltd. – Zinger Residence • Platinum Homes – Bouw Residence Best New Estate Home over $1,000,000 • Bowood Homes – 79 Grand • Platinum Homes – Platinum Homes Show Home • Sorento Custom Homes – The Bellissimo • Sorento Custom Homes – The Creekside
BES T N E W HOM E: MU LTI FA M I LY TOW N HOUSE/DU PLE X S T Y LE: Best New Multi Family Home – Town House/Duplex Style under $224,999 • Vleeming Construction Ltd. – Lacombe Duplex • Abbey Master Builder – Kingston • Laebon Homes – Northbrook • Sorento Custom Homes – The Williams
Best New Home Between $675,000 - $749,999 • Sorento Custom Homes – Wolf Creek Residence • Falcon Homes – The Copperstone • Laebon Homes – City Retreat • Laebon Homes – DL Custom
Best New Multi Family Home – Town House/Duplex Style over $250,000 • Falcon Homes – The Villa’s Duplex • Colbray Homes – Vista • Falcon Homes – the Summerford Up & Down Duplex • True-Line Contracting Ltd. – Cervi Residence
SA FE T Y LE A DERSH I P AWA R DS General Member • Bruin’s Plumbing and Heating Builder Member • Falcon Homes
EXCELLENCE IN INTERIOR DESIGN Excellence in Interior Design • Krest Homes – The Zen Interior Designers: The Design Lounge Girls – Lise Paradis, Brittany Bunch, and Karlee McNabb
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
23
feature feature
2 016 PA R T N E R AWA R D S Trades of the Year (small) • Red Deer Overdoor
Service Professional of the Year (small) • Snell & Oslund Surveys (1979) Ltd.
Supplier of the Year (small) • General Appliances Lacombe
Supplier of the Year (large) • Timber Wolf Truss Service Professional of the Year (small) • Progressive Home Warranty Trades of the Year (large) • Thermo Pro Insulation and Drywall
2016 President’s Awards
BEST RENOVATION PROJECT
Outstanding contribution to the CHBA – Central Alberta presented by Lori Erickson, President 2015/16
Best Renovation under $74,999 • Larkaun Homes Ltd. – 44 Brookes • Platinum Homes – Watts Reno • Sorento Custom Homes – The Alton Renovation • True-Line Contracting Ltd. – Hemstreet Reno
Rookie of the year award Chris Beaumont, Abbey Master Builder
Member of the year award Brandon Bouchard, Paul Davis Systems
Best Renovation over $75,000 - $124,999 • Falcon Homes – Bowden Acreage • True-Line Contracting Ltd. – Cegielny Reno
Gus Bakke Memorial Award John Christie, Falcon Homes
Best Renovation over $125,000 • Bowood Homes – Nichols Renovation • Falcon Homes – Pool House • Sorento Custom Homes – The Allen • True-Line Contracting Ltd. – Roblin Reno
24
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
Chris Beaumont
Brandon Bouchard
2 016
John Christie
culture | entertainment
50
THINGS TO SEE AND DO in Central Alberta BY S H EL L E Y N E WM A N
Bower Ponds
Y
ou don’t have to go far to find something fun to do in Central Alberta. Whether it’s just down the street or in a neighbouring town, there are an incredible number of activities in this part of the province. Check out the list below, and add your own favourites as you find something new.
1 2
Heritage Ranch
PH OTO CO U R T E SY H ER I TAG E R A N CH
Visit the beautiful Bower Ponds to enjoy an event or take a relaxing stroll.
See if you can outrun the Ranch Tracker at Heritage Ranch in an exciting one-hour game of capture the flag.
3 4
Immerse yourself in local culture at Red Deer’s Museum + Art Gallery (MAG).
Read a book at Red Deer Public Library — the Downtown, Dawe and Timberlands branches are all open to the public.
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
27
PHOTO BY SHELLE Y NE WM A N
culture | entertainment
5
Stroll along Little Gaetz and Ross Street, taking in the variety of local shops and eateries as you go.
Meet Red Deer’s famous ghosts when you take the “Ghosts of Red Deer” selfguided walking tour.
Spend some fun family time at the local festivals.
10
Step back in time and learn about Red Deer’s heritage, thanks to the self-guided walking tours and heritage. signs throughout the city. Test your endurance and fitness at Mud Hero or the other many runs and races offered throughout the region.
12 13
Rock out to live music at concerts and clubs.
Get fresh produce and much more at the Downtown Market on Wednesday afternoons and the Market @ Red Deer on Saturday mornings.
14
Cheer on your favourite teams at the arenas and sports fields across the region.
15 16 17
Float down the Red Deer River on a hot summer day. Bust a bead at an outdoor fitness gym.
Cool off with the kids at the Blue Grass Sod Farm Central Spray & Play in Red Deer.
18 19
P H OTO CO U R T E SY W E S T ER N ER PA R K
Take a dip in your local pool.
Get moving — sign up for one of the many fitness classes or activities available for all ages.
20
Bike or run for over 100 kilometres on the hard and soft surface trails weaving throughout Red Deer.
28
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
21 22
Get your game on at the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.
Get gardening at a community garden or rent your own garden plot.
23 24
Sit back and enjoy the big screen at your favourite movie theatre.
Get in your car and cruise to a cruise night or show and shine in your area.
25
Hit the links — there are many quality golf courses to enjoy right here in Central Alberta.
26
Pick some delicious fresh produce at the Jungle Farm or other local u-picks.
27
Get lost in fun at the corn maze at the Kraay Family Farm.
PH OTO CO U R T E SY MY R N A PE A R M A N
11 CO U R T E SY BOW ER PL ACE
PHOTO BY T WITCHY FINGER PHOTOGR A PHY
Shop at Bower Place and Parkland Mall for an incredible selection of fashion and merchandise at a wide variety of stores.
Experience the thrills and sights of Westerner Days Fair & Exposition, Central Alberta’s largest summer event that’s celebrating its 125th anniversary.
Mud Hero
9
6 7
8
“Sound the Alarm”, one of the many bronze ghosts of Red Deer.
culture | entertainment
PHOTO BY JENN Y SPUR
P H OTO CO U R T E S Y ZO O M P H OTO.C A
P H OTO CO U R T E S Y ZO O M P H OTO.C A
Mud Hero
36
Drive the Scandinavian Trail, stopping at the many museums and sites along the way.
28
Build sand castles and stroll along the promenade at Sylvan Lake Provincial Park.
Cool Beans Bus on Ross Street
37
Meet the movie star bears and over 40 species of other animals at the Discovery Wildlife Park in Innisfail.
29
Discover how fun a walk can be when you take your dog to Three Mile Bend or The Oxbows off-leash dog parks.
30 31
43
Hit the trails and try out the jumps and stunts at the Red Deer Mountain Bike Park.
38
Buy your lunch from a food truck and enjoy a spontaneous picnic.
All aboard for a ride on a vintage steam train with Stettler’s Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions.
Meet some feathered friends at the Ellis Bird Farm.
39 40
Find your zen at a local spa.
Pull on your boots and head to a regional rodeo for an authentic cowboy experience.
41
Gather your friends and celebrate Canada Day with fireworks in your hometown.
44 45
Find your own slice of paradise at a camp site throughout the region.
Be amazed by live theatre performed by the talented youth, amateur and professional theatres groups in Central Alberta.
46
Make it your mission to find the perfect ice cream at the Little Ice Cream & Soda Shoppe, The Big Moo in Sylvan Lake or the Creamery Museum in historic Markerville.
42
Honour our veterans at the Cenotaph in Veterans’ Park.
32 33 34
Let history come alive at the revitalized Fort Normandeau.
Test your wits and skills to get out of the Lockdown Escape Rooms in Red Deer.
35
Visit the baby farm animals at Sunnybrook Farm Museum.
47 48
Try out one of the indoor playgrounds in the region.
Challenge your friends to a game of disc golf at the two free courses in Red Deer.
PHOTO BY SHELLE Y NE WM A N
P H O TO CO U R T E S Y K R A AY FA M I LY
Discover the serenity of the Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary federal nature preserve, located behind Kerry Wood Nature Centre, right in the heart of Red Deer.
49 50
Tour the new show homes throughout Central Alberta.
Research the clubs available in your area and dive into a new hobby with new friends.
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
29
people
Sweet connections BJ Tumanut came to Red Deer for business, but stayed for the lifestyle
BY S H EL L E Y N E WM A N
W
BJ with Mickey Mouse
30
hen BJ Tumanut moved to Red Deer in December of 2010, she was embarking on a new adventure in a new city. With her car packed full of her belongings, she arrived at the apartment she had found on Kijiji and began preparing to take on her new role as the owner of Chocolates by Bernard Callebaut. “I had been the general manager for three Chocolates by Bernard Callebaut stores in Edmonton since 2002, so this was a great opportunity for me to own the store in Red Deer,” Tumanut says. “I’m a ‘jump in the deep end and see if I can swim’ kind of person, and I learn best in a hands-on environment, so these factors all came together when I decided to move here.” Tumanut bought her store in January, 2011, and she quickly gained experience and learned about being a small business owner, but one thing remained a challenge during her first few months in Red Deer: isolation. She wasn’t from Central Alberta, as she was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. Tumanut’s parents, Josie and Kelly, still lived in her hometown, as did her younger sister, Lesley. Tumanut went to the University of Missouri in Kansas City, graduating with a BA in Communications. She moved to Edmonton in 1997, working in the wine industry and taking courses. She met her long-time partner, Mike Freeland, there in 2001, and she also started working at one of the Chocolates by Bernard Callebaut stores — initially just for the Christmas season. That one season turned into eight years of managing stores in Edmonton, before Tumanut moved to Red Deer. While this was the smallest city that
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
BJ Tumanut in her store
she’d lived in, she found the Central Alberta location to be somewhat socially daunting during her first winter here. “I didn’t know a single person when I moved here, and I actually started offering chocolate classes just to meet people,” she laughs. Teaching chocolate and dance fitness classes and also jazzercise classes — which she has done for the past two years — did help Tumanut to meet people, but a very strong factor in her community connections has come from her passion for volunteering. “I started my volunteerism with the Chamber of Commerce and, a short time later, I was invited to the Rotary Club of Red Deer Sunrise,” she says. At her first meeting, Tumanut learned about Rotarian principles that “really fit with my beliefs and what’s important to me,” she explains. “I’ve been a practic-
P H OTO BY S H A E PAT ER SO N
ing Buddhist since 2001 — and founded a meditation group here in Red Deer in 2011 — and many of the Rotary principles connect with my Buddhist teachings and with what I value.” Through Rotary and her other volunteerism, Tumanut learned more about the city, as well as the businesses and the people here, and she continued to find her niche in the community. In 2014, Tumanut was one of the dancers in the 2014 Sheraton Celebrity Dance Off. The annual fundraising event supported the Big Brothers Big Sisters program offered through the Youth and Volunteer Centre that year, and the Rotarians supported the cause — and Tumanut — wholeheartedly. Now the president of her club, Tumanut looks forward to the exciting projects onthe-go, with the Access for All Barrier-Free Playscape Project having a special place in her heart. “This will be a fully inclusive playscape, which means that people with all different types of abilities will be able to play together,” says Grant Burchnall, Tumanut’s fellow Rotarian and chair of the Access for All Project. The project has grown to include contributions from all three Rotary Clubs and the Rotaract Club in Red Deer, as well as Mattie McCullough School and The City of Red Deer. “BJ is certainly a driving force that brings great energy to projects,”
PH OTO CO U R T E SY B J T U M A N U T
people
Tumanut with Theresa Hopper (left) in a chocolate making class.
Burchnall says. “Plus, she’s a critical thinker and she understands the business side of things, so she brings a great combination of skills to her role.” The different pieces of Tumanut’s life, between her work and her community activities, keep connecting and clicking into place. The Chocolate Chase fundraiser that her business was first invited to participate in as part of Red Deer’s Centennial, back in 2013, is now the Rotary Sunrise fundraiser for Access for All, and she is looking forward to this year’s Chocolate Chase on August 28. Tumanut’s connection to and place in the community have flourished, both in her capacity as a leader and as a business owner. In 2014, she received a Women of Excellence Award for Entrepreneurship from the Red Deer & District Community Foundation. She has also given presentations on entrepreneurship at Red Deer College’s Donald School of Business. “Running
a business is definitely a lot of work, but I’m so fortunate in that I love what I do, and I’ve never had a better team than I have now,” she says. As she continues to expand on her offerings at Chocolates by Bernard Callebaut, Tumanut has been certified through the Wines and Spirits Education Trust, and she has added wine classes to the courses she teaches. “I come from a long line of teachers, as my dad was a teacher for 43 years, and my mom and grandma were also teachers at different points in their lives,” she says. “Education is where my heart is, and I love to open up people’s experiences and encourage them to try new things.” When she isn’t involved in her busy schedule of business and community activities, Tumanut spends her downtime trying out interesting cooking projects, binge-watching her favourite Netflix shows and hanging out with her Scottish Fold cat, Pepper. Thanks to FaceTime, she is able to regularly connect with her family in Missouri, including her two beloved nieces, Olivia and Gemma. “Red Deer has given me confidence, direction and friendships,” she says, adding that she learned her strengths and weaknesses here and also how to use these in a meaningful way. “Red Deer truly has been a gift to me.”
“I’m a ‘jump in the deep end and see if I can swim’ kind of person.”
Far Left: Tumanut in the 2014 Sheraton Celebrity Dance Off. Photo courtesy Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express. Left: Tumanut with her family
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
31
feature
Thanks for the memories F
BY J O CK M ACK ENZI E
60th Anniversary of CHBA – Central Alberta
Golden Oldies
Members of CHBA-Central Alberta’s 30+ Year Club Alberta New Home Warranty ATCO Gas Bowood Homes Bruin’s Plumbing and Heating Burnco Rock Products Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation Carpet Colour Centre City of Red Deer (Inspections Dept.) Dynovac Industries
Executive Home Building Centre Laebon Homes Marshall Contruction Co. Melcor Developments Northland Construction Supplies Ply Gem/Gienow Canada Red Deer College Servus Credit Union Snell & Oslund Surveys
2014-15 2013-14 John Christie, FalconKevin Wilkie, Homes
True-Line Homes
rom its humble beginnings in 1956 as a meeting between a handful of like-minded home builders under the umbrella of the Housing and Urban Development Association of Canada (HUDAC), to today’s modern organization — with three full time staff and more than 150 members — the CHBA-Central Alberta has come a long way in the past 60 years. In many ways, its growth has mirrored the City of Red Deer and the Central Alberta region itself. No surprise, of course, since the business of building houses is tied directly to the growth of communities. And, just as Red Deer and surrounding centres have changed, so has the CHBA-Central Alberta to keep up with the times. What hasn’t changed are the huge contributions various people have made — both within CHBA and in the community as a whole. The following timeline looks at some of the people who’ve been involved with the organization over the years, and some of the things those folks are most proud of.
2011-12 Dan Ouwehand,
2009-10 Natalie Larkam,
2007-08 Laurie Chapman,
2005-06 Tom Olson,
Carpet Colour Centre
Larkaun Homes
Servus Credit Union
Laebon Homes
2012-13 Lisa Buckingham,
2008-09 Jonas Neidert,
2006-07 Marty Bruin, Bruin’s
Trail Appliances
Avalon Central Alberta/
Plumbing and Heating
Natalie Larkam, Larkaun Homes
Incoming Brandon Bouchard, Paul Davis Systems
32
2015-16 Lori Erickson, Erickson Homes
2010-11 Steve Bontje, Laebon Homes
I’m most proud that we’ve been able to continue to grow the Association even in a difficult economy. Our move to bigger, better office space to better serve our members and 60th Anniversary celebrations are testament to our dedicated staff and Board of Directors who worked as a team to make it all happen.
Looking back at my time serving as CHBA-CA President, I’m reminded of the old adage that oftentimes ‘you get back more than you put in.’ My time as President was certainly an example of that. Serving our association was truly a privilege and I’ll never forget the good times we had and the great friends I made.
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
feature
1956-1972 Unknown
CHBA-Central Alberta President
1972-73 John Ratzke 1973-1974 Herb Braatz
1977-78 Ed Kapp / Frank Kirkpatrick
1975-76 John Ratzke
1974-75 Fred Bishop
1979-80 Larry Boyko
1978-79 Steve Scott
1981-82 Bruce Olsen
1980-81 Peter Lacey,
1983-84 Allen Watson
1982-83 Russ Rae
1985-86 Av Beirnes
1984-85 Doug Loewen
Laebon Homes
1986-87 Steve Scott, Avalon Homes
1987-88 Rick Wiebe,
1976-77 Arnold Ritchie
1989-90 Gord Bontje, Laebon Homes
Carpet Colour Centre
The best part for me was my long-term association with HUDAC Central Alberta; since the 1950’s the association has been very professional in providing quality innovative housing to Central Alberta. The most significant change for HUDAC was hiring a full-time Executive Officer in late 1978 and development of The Red Deer Home Show.
I served as president just as Alberta exited the1980s. Our industry had just survived the National Energy Program (government “help”) and super high interest rates (global economic factor). Does any of this sound familiar? Our industry in 1990 was vastly smaller than it was in 1980 and most of the participants were different. But, then as now, we all did a great job serving our customers with great, well-built, affordable homes.
1988-89 Peter Tanasiychuk
2003-04 Terry Loewen,
2000-01 Jason Welikoklad, Executive
Platinum Homes
Home Hardware
Bowood Homes
1991-92 Mel Watmough
1998-99 Hugh MacBeth, Mason Martin Homes
2004-05 Christine Scott-Nyuli,
2001-02 Ches Hafso,
Avalon Homes
Hafso Homes
1997-98 Dan Murdock,
1996-97 Sandy Van Someren, Ply Gem
1995-96 Ken Unger, Red Deer
Melcor Developments We had a really engaged and energetic Board that were a lot of fun to work with. The membership was quite active as well with excellent attendance at our monthly meetings.
1992-93 Fred Lebedoff 1993-94 Wes Steel
Overdoor
DoorMasters Inc
2002-03 Guy Pelletier,
1990-91 Eric Bakko / Boman Husted,
1999-2000 Phil Neufeld, True-Line Homes
1994-95 Art Anastasi, Abbey Master Builder
My greatest accomplishment was working through the ongoing issues at the time and helping the association buy its own office space. My fondest memory was the Jasper Convention when the association rented the large group cabin and we had a great bonding weekend.
In the mid-90s, it was tough times for our industry, but we had great camaraderie and we pulled together. Today we should remember the lessons we learned back then. The cycles come every five to seven years so we just have to stay in there.
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
33
getting to know
Tyler Hansen Melcor Developments BY J I M Z A N G P H OTO BY K R I S T Y K L A R I CH P H OTO G R A P H Y
T
yler Hansen knows Red Deer. Born in Red Deer in 1987, the third of four brothers, he’s literally grown up with the city. “My first job was paperboy for the Advocate,” he says. “I think I started when I was about 10 years old.” He still makes Red Deer his home, living in the new community of Clearview Ridge with wife of five years, Richelle, and sons Coen (3) and Brooks (1). But he doesn’t deliver papers anymore. These days, Tyler earns his living helping Red Deer grow as a Development Manager with Melcor Developments for the Red Deer Region, Community Development. Officially, he’s tasked with “managing the full life cycle of land development projects from acquisition of the raw land, to planning, construction and development, and finally the sale of the lots to builders and handing over of completed public infrastructure to the municipality.” Unofficially, his job is to help keep Red Deer as good a place to live, work and raise a family in as it was when he grew up. Or better. It’s a challenge the B. Comm. holder is more than up to. Since getting his degree at U of A, he’s earned his stripes in the housing industry also with a diploma in Urban Land Economics and a post-graduate certificate in Real Property Valuation both from the Sauder School of Business at UBC. A keen student of urban development, he’s also involved with the local chapter of the Canadian Home Builders Association, sitting on the Board of Directors.
With such a wide range of job responsibilities, in such a dynamic market, Tyler’s actual day-to-day activities vary significantly, he says, “depending on what stage of a project we are in and the time of year.” On any given day you could find him out at a new development site, attending various planning sessions, or in the office hunkered down behind his computer or working the phones. He is also included in the community as the current Board Chair for the Red Deer Downtown Business Association and part of the host organizing committee for the Memorial Cup. When not at work, downtime is divided amongst family and friends, with an emphasis on getting outdoors. “We like to get out camping with friends, hiking, biking. I like to do some trail running from time to time. A group of friends and I got together about five years ago to run the Sinister 7 Ultra as a relay. We have been back pretty much every year since.” He’s not really a big TV or book person, he says, but one book he read recently and recommends is ‘Let My People Go Surfing’ by Yvon Choinard. “Very relevant in today’s world.”
As for the local housing industry, “it’s continually evolving,” he says, “both on the supply and demand side of the equation. Advances in building science, technology, and design are consistent challenges and opportunities for builders. Consumers are well informed and demand homes that are sustainable, efficient and include all the newest technology, materials, and features.” Affordability and budget are thus a significant challenge for both the consumer and builder, he says, adding Central Alberta is fortunate to have a great group of builders that will help you find the right balance. Still, his best advice to buyers is a familiar refrain. “Do your research beyond just the ‘build’ or the builder,” he says. “A substantial portion of the value in a new home comes in the ability to significantly outperform older homes in operating efficiencies and lower long term maintenance costs. It is easy to overlook this aspect when evaluating your housing options.”
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
35
CENTRAL ALBERTA Community Residential Development Map
36
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
SUMMER
2 016
RED DEER
S U M M E R 2 016
CENTR AL
A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
37
you said it
“
Bonnie, classic cutlery
Are you going anywhere for summer vacation? BY S H A E PAT ER SO N
“
“
West Coast, Vancouver and area.” Steve, fire prevention officer
Penticton.” Kelly, sales manager, divine flooring
“
Okanagan, or the trails of Red Deer.” Becky, forestry tech, City of Red Deer
“ 38
“
Southern Alberta, 40 Mile Dam.”
“
Gull Lake.” Braelyn, garage specialties
Rob, general manager, home building centre
SUMMER
2 016
Kevin, audio integrations
Penticton, going boating.” Brad, holt fine art
“
Arkansas, White Buffalo River Resort.”
CEN T R A L A L B ER TA H O M E S & L I FE S T Y L E S
“
Montana, camping.”
Somewhere in BC, not sure yet.” Wayne, timber frame construction