Central Alberta Homes & Lifestyles - Spring 2017 by Source Media Group

SPRING 2017 | ISSUE 19

contents 14

Lifestyles 7 Focus On

Does anybody really know what time it is? Today’s clocks do more than just tell time, they make an interior design statement

18 Business Profile

Summer school. People of all ages expand their horizons at Red Deer College

25 In the kitchen

A berry good brunch. Shake things up a bit with fresh berry bruschetta, a really pretty baked egg and puff pastry dish

27 Culture

16 Show Home Profile

30 Getting to Know

20 Industry News Tiny possibilities.

Spirits of Alberta. ‘Buy local’ now applies to vodka and gin

Andrew Wiebe. Owner, Red Deer Carpet One

Nanotechnology manipulates matter’s building blocks to enable some huge new ideas

31 You Said It

Who’s your favourite cartoon character?

Homes 8 Events Red Deer Home Show. Everything

for under your roof under one roof

11 Market Overview

Economic Forecast. It’s like déjà vu all over again

14 Show Home Profile

Laebon Homes. Timber Ridge show home perfect for families

22 Industry News Bringing it home. Local company part of Nano revolution

Items 6 Message from the chief executive officer 28 Maps Central Alberta and Red Deer

new communities

True-Line Homes. Standing the test of time

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message from the chief executive officer

Signs of Spring It seems a bit strange to be writing the introduction for a spring magazine when it’s minus 20-something degrees outside, but that’s Central Alberta weather for you. As Forest Gump would have said, “You never know what you’re going to get.” One place where you do know exactly what you’re going to get, guaranteed every time, is at the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta Region’s annual Home Show. It’s a rite of passage in these parts, a sign that spring is on the way, with thousands of Central Albertans expected to attend again this year. Whether you’re thinking of building a new home, need some renovation or decorating advice for your current living space, or just want to check out all the latest gizmos and gadgets for yourself, it’s all under one roof at the Westerner Centre March 10-12. Another annual event you can read about in this edition is the CHBA-CA’s January economic forecast dinner. According to the experts, things are starting to look up for the local economy. See what they said on page 31. Ironically, our big feature article this time around is actually all about thinking small, very small. You may have heard of nano technology in reference to health care or computer applications, but did you know it’s also part of the building industry? Join us on page 20 as we take a glimpse into the future of new home construction. On the topic of new homes, wrapping up the Homes element of our magazine are a couple of home builder features — one each from Laebon Homes and True-Line Homes — showcasing what some of the area’s top builders can do. Stepping into the Lifestyles section, check out our photo page on clocks and, if the time is right, enjoy some Food and Wine as our experts share some of their favourites. If you’re looking to become an expert yourself, be sure to read the article on Red Deer College and see what they have to offer. You might be surprised. And, finally, turn to the inside back pages to meet some of your neighbours. First up is a profile of Andrew Wiebe, owner of Red Deer Carpet One, and his family, followed up by our very popular You Said It page, which asked the important question: Who is your favourite cartoon character? For myself, it would have to be Homer Simpson. Just thinking about him brings a smile to my face, and hopefully to yours too. Thanks for reading and see you around town.

Sincerely,

Denie Olmstead | Chief Executive Officer eo@chbacentralalberta.ca Joan Butler | Administration & Event Coordinator admin@chbacentralalberta.ca Sharon Stange | Administration Assistant info@chbacentralalberta.ca

PUBLISHED BY Source Media Group Corp. 6109 – 6th Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2H 1L9 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 | Kim Amsing, Miles Durrie, Jock Mackenzie, Treena Mielke, Tammie Sorensen, BJ Tumanut, Laurette Woodward DIRECTOR OF SALES | Jim Zang jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca

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Upcoming CHBA-CA Events

#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

ADVERTISING SALES | Bernie Cooke bernie.cooke@sourcemediagroup.ca

Denie Olmstead Chief Executive Officer CHBA – Central Alberta

MARCH 29 Member Meeting & Social

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.

APRIL 26 Member Meeting & Social

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For more information visit www.chbaca.ca

MAY 13 Awards of Excellence in Housing Gala

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JUNE 2 Golf Tournament at Alberta Springs

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.

focus on

1 2

Does anybody really know what time it is? 3

Time to get a new clock! Today’s clocks do more than just tell time, they make an interior design statement. We’re limited to a couple of stores and one page, but your only limit is your budget and your imagination. BY K I M A M S I N G

1 $59 at The Brick. 2 $99 at The Brick.

3 $199 at Urban Barn. 4 $69 at Urban Barn.

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5 $19 at The Brick. 6 $45 at The Brick.

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

events

Red Deer Home Show Everything for under your roof under one roof BY J O CK M ACK ENZI E

very good news story starts with the facts, and this preview of the Red Deer Home Show is no exception. This year marks the 38th anniversary of the Red Deer Home Show, the Canadian Home Builders Association — Central Alberta (CHBA – CA) region’s annual spring home and garden extravaganza and, as always, it promises to be the biggest and best ever. To date, nearly 280 businesses have signed up with booths, meaning whatever product, service or expert advice you’re looking for, if it’s got to do with your home, you can probably find it here. More than 40 Canadian Home Builders Association members are slated to attend,

Dorinda Gallant 8

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many of whom have participated in over 20 home shows, along with dozens of other exhibitors. In fact, the venue, Westerner Park, has allotted nearly 125,000 square feet of space to accommodate all the entries. Always included in the mix as part of the Home Show is a large commitment to community involvement. Drop by booths of some of our local community partners, like Habitat for Humanity, Women’s Outreach, Red Deer Emergency Services — Fire Alarm Program, and Air Cadets, just to name a few. And while you are at the show stop by the Canadian Home Builders' Association's booth for free tips on how to find the right home builder or the right renovator for your next home project. And, of course, even more great door prizes will be given away this year! Dorinda Gallant of Larkaun Homes, Chair of the Red Deer Home Show committee for the CHBA – CA, is a big believer in the power of the Home Show. “It gives prospective homeowners the chance to educate themselves. And if they’ve been suffering from cabin fever, this Spring show is a great time for the whole family to get out of the house.” CHBA – CA President Brandon Bouchard echoes those sentiments. “It gives attendees the opportunity to see the newest and latest in innovation,” he says. “It also gives

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the exhibitors the time to meet and connect with one another in one space. It allows them to network.” But don’t just take their word for it, here’s a quote from a previous Home Show attendee that helps paint a little fuller picture: “For me, it’s a family outing. There’s something for everyone. Little Andy likes to spin the wheel and get all the giveaways. My daughter Jill loves the food. And John, my husband, loves chatting with all of the tradesmen as he dreams about fixing our home and maybe, someday, even building new. For me, it’s all the great home decorating ideas.”

events

Plenty of those decorating and design ideas will not only come from exhibitors but from experts speaking on the main stage. Experts include local designers Kelly Holyoak, of Normandeau Window Coverings, and Sofie Blunck, of Sofie B Design. Kelly and Sofie will take time to discuss the upcoming trends, what to expect when hiring a design professional and how your interiors can save your money. Visit the home show's website for a full schedule of this years's guest speakers.

THE TIMBER KING The celebrity guest speaker this year is none other than André Chevigny of HGTV’s Timber Kings. Besides wielding a mean chainsaw, André is as knowledgable as he is personable and loves to connect with the public. He’s no ‘made for TV’ pretty boy and what you see is pretty much what you get. Timber Kings will began airing its fourth season on HGTV this year. If you haven’t seen it, you’ve missed the construction of some of the most beautiful log homes and cabins ever built. André, the Operations Manager for Pioneer Homes of Williams Lake, B.C., will share his thoughts on why folks build log homes and why they choose Pioneer to build them. Sustainability practices will be a key theme. Of course, he’ll have a few anecdotes about the various builds and about the fabulous crew. André has first-hand knowledge of building in Central Alberta. In Season

Ponoka area log home of Brad and Amanda Kelly

André Chevigny

“Everybody who has anything to do with homes is right there, all at once, under one roof. Talk about shopping made easy.” 3, he worked on the 7,000 square-foot log home of Brad and Amanda Kelly of Ponoka. He recalls, “It was an amazing build. Challenges were in every area, especially some trick joinery around the front of the home with massive logs. The other challenge was the deadline and winter on its way in. The final results were spectacular — she’s a beauty.” André’s passion for his work comes across loud and clear, even over the phone. For starters, he loves his job, absolutely loves it. “I’ve got the best job in the world,” he says. “It’s not really going to work each day when you love what you do.” Another passion is his desire to share his knowledge and experience. “I’m really excited to come to Red Deer. I’m not the kind of speaker who talks for my time and then disappears. I want to meet the people. I will be around afterward to answer

questions and, as I always do, learn some things myself.” And if you don’t get the chance to chat face-to-face, you can always follow him on Facebook, Instagram and @ AndreChevigny on Twitter. André’s presentations will be on Saturday, March 11 at 1 and at 3:30 p.m.

HOME SHOW HOURS & ADMISSION Friday, March 10 noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 11 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, March 12: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets: $10 adults $8 students and seniors Free 12 and under (with an adult)

For more information of Red Deer Home Show, visit www.reddeerhomeshow.ca. Facebook at www.facebook.com/RDHomeShow | Twritter @ RedDeerHomeShow

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market overview

Economic Forecast It’s like déjà vu all over again BY J I M Z A N G

ow many times have you gone to a meeting or seminar and walked away after thinking “I already knew that”? Not that that’s a bad thing. It’s nice to get affirmation, if only once in a while, that what you thought about something is right. Especially if that confirmation happens to come from the experts. That’s the feeling I had January 25 after the Canadian Home Builders Association – Central Alberta Region (CHBA – CA) annual economic forecast dinner at the Black Knight Inn. If only the forecast was as good as the dinner! Of course, I’d had the good fortune to attend a similar BILD Calgary Region dinner two weeks prior, so I had a bit of an inkling of what was to come in Red Deer — more of the same, but on a smaller scale.

THE BIG PICTURE Looking first at the big picture, Alberta, was CHBA – Alberta’s resident number cruncher Richard Goatcher. Despite fighting off a cold, Goatcher mustered up what enthusiasm he could for the year ahead. Goatcher backed his talk up with plenty of stats telling us how bad 2016 was — it’s safe to say most folks, like myself, knew that — things like low Richard Goatcher net migration, high employment and average weekly earnings, the usual signs of a depressed economy. Goatcher, however, sees a few rays of sun breaking over the horizon in 2017. Inflation is still non-existant, he says, and mortgage

rates flat. Both “are good things.” He expects both exports and oil prices to rise slightly, with the provincial manufacturing sector already “showing signs of increase.” He pointed out the active rig count in Alberta showed an increase in late 2016. On the housing side of things, home investment decline in 2016 from 2015, but has started to level off recently. Renovation activity across the province, he says, was relatively strong in 2016 and is expected to remain so going forward. In addition to the larger market studies he looks at, Goatcher likes to do his own mini-survey of key individuals within the housing industry. Most, he says, are predicting housing start numbers similar to 2016. Perhaps with some moderate gains, but limited improvement. Of course, after bottoming out last year with the lowest year for single-family detached home starts in 20 years, there’s really nowhere to go but up. On the multi-family side, he says, 2014 and 2015 were record years in Calgary and Edmonton, with housing start totals that just weren’t sustainable long-term in the “very cyclical” big city condo market. It’s somewhat less of an issue in smaller population centres with less reliance on multi-family, but overall, across the province, a high unabsorbed inventory, high rental vacancy and lower rental rates are all contributing to a bit of a lull in the condo market, especially at the first-time buyer level. And then there’s the economy. “Will

there be carbon tax inflation affect? Who knows?,” says Goatcher. And as for Donald Trump: “Your guess is as good as mine.”

FOCUS ON RED DEER Zooming in on Red Deer and Central Alberta, Tim Gensey, market analyst for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), confirmed that much of what’s been happening on a broader scope is also the case, to a certain degree, right here in river city. The worst of the decline is over, he says, and we’re in a leveling off period right now. Unemployment is still high in the region compared to historical averages, but has at least Tim Gensey begun to stabilize. Red Deer is poised to take advantage of an economic recovery, he says. There’s still actual population growth, much of it natural rather than in-migration from other provinces. My own theories range from those cold Central Alberta winters driving our reproductive habits, to maybe it’s just more men are home from work, it’s hard to say for sure. What’s also important, says Gensey, is that the demographic segment that’s quite large at the moment is the 25 – 34 age group, coincidently the primary market for new homes. As the economy improves, suggests, Gensey, so should the demand for new homes from this market segment. He doesn’t see demand for multi-family showing much improvement until some unabsorbed inventory is sold and/or completed. In the end, like many home builders and

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market overview

RED DEER HOUSING STARTS RED DEER

buyers themselves, CMHC is hedging their bets, taking a bit of a wait and see attitude, and calling for single-family starts to be either up or down a couple of percentiles from last year.

December 2016

December 2015

Final 2016

Final 2015

Single detached

163

253

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

154

356

Total

375

692

Median price: $500,000 HOUSING STARTS BY DWELLING TYPE

NEIGHBOURS CMHC doesn’t provide a forecast for every community, but they do track housing statistics in several and they’re worth looking at every quarter to see what, if any, trends might be developing. In a lot of cases, the numbers speak for themselves. Red Deer proper, for example, see chart, was down across the board, but the presence of a couple of big multifamily projects in 2015 really buoyed that year’s final numbers. 2017 is expected to be closer to 2016 than to 2015 totals. Travelling around to neighbouring communities, the refrain remains the same: 2016 was so bad, it can only get better, can’t it? Even Lacombe, seemingly insulated from the outside world for much of the year, in the end, succumbed to outside pressures and showed a decrease year to year. Lacombe County, down 26 per cent from 2015; Red Deer County down to almost half 2015 levels; in Olds home building permits are down to half; even in bustling Sylvan Lake, starts are down by about one-third. I don’t do a mini-survey like Richard Goatcher, but I do know this: my brotherin-law Tom Lehman’s water well testing service, Medicine River Seismic Services, out of Sylvan Lake, is starting to get busy again after about a year of inactivity. So hang in their folks. It was bad all over in 2016. We weren’t just thinking it, the experts confirmed it. But those same experts predict a better year ahead. Let’s hope they’re right.

LACOMBE

Q4 2016

Q4 2015

Final 2016

Final 2015

Single detached

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

Total

126

136

Q4 2016

Q4 2015

Final 2016

Final 2015

LACOMBE COUNTY

Single detached

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

Total

RED DEER COUNTY

Q4 2016

Q4 2015

Final 2016

Final 2015

Single detached

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

Total

105

Q4 2016

Q4 2015

Final 2016

Final 2015

Single detached

122

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

Total

153

204

Q4 2016

Q4 2015

Final 2016

Final 2015

Single detached

Semi-detached

Multi-unit

Total

SYLVAN LAKE

OLDS*

Source: CMHC * Building permits. Source: www.olds.ca/planning/buildingpermits

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show home profile

True-Line Homes Standing the test of time

hen Sue and Phil Neufeld started True-Line Homes 27 years ago, the population of Red Deer was just under 57,000. They built four homes, and were very “hands-on” from framing to finishing. The Simpsons had just premiered on Fox network, the Berlin Wall was coming down, Wilson Phillips was on top of the Billboard charts and Nelson Mandella was released from prison. It was a busy year that seems so long, long ago. Today the local urban population is closer to 100,000, the wall, Wilson Philips and Mandella are all gone, and what remains is True Line Homes — still going strong just like the Simpsons. The secret to their staying power, in both cases, is simple: they deliver exactly as promised, every time. It’s true, says Brian Steer, Vice President of Construction at True-Line Homes. In fact, he says, it was a natural transition to incorporate True-Line. Phil had been in the industry for many years and was an experienced supervisor, a framer, a finisher, a cribber and was knowledgeable of everything in between in the industry. Since that historic day in 1990 they’ve grown with the city and, “we’ll probably hit 1,250 total homes built sometime this year,” estimates Steer, who’s been with the company 17 years. The key, he says, “is our honest, upfront communication with customers during the quoting and design process. We listen, and then we deliver exactly what we promise. Both in product and in service.” Part of the reason they can maintain their high standards in terms of design, construction quality and customer service is the dedication of their staff and their ability to connect with customers. “Phil and Sue were responsible for all the sales until a few years ago, when the number of homes being built in a year surpassed 100” says Sales Manager Ernie Neufeld, at that time we developed a very professional sales team. You still get to talk directly to the person in charge of your project.” The company expects to build 30 or more homes in the Red Deer area in 2017, as well as a dozen or so they’ll be building in Fort McMurray. Currently,

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they have 17 new home projects underway in communities like Laredo, Sylvan Lake, Springbrook and Penhold. Another key to True-Line’s success is diversity of product. “We do it all,” says Steer. “Our mainstay right now is probably

the move-up category, but we’re also wellknown for our great bungalow designs and, more recently, we have had great success with adult villas, first in Clearview, then Vanier Woods and now in Laredo on Little Close.” The latter, Neufeld stresses, aren’t condos but freely owned homes with a homeowner association to take care of things like common space maintenance, lawn care and snow removal. The Laredo project will have 28 units ranging from 1,200 square-feet to over 1,600 square-feet. Some of the homes even have triple garages! Prices for these Adult Villas start in the low $400,000s and can range into the $600,000s with the basements developed. “Since we are a fully custom builder, the price totally depends on what the homeowner wants in their new home,” says Steer.

SHOW HOMES 122 Caribou Cres. (Clearview, Red Deer) 1,690 sq. ft. Modified bi-level 5 bdrm, 3.5 bath 31 Little Close (Laredo, Red Deer) 1,314 sq. ft Adult villa bungalow 3 bdrm, 2.5 bath

Meanwhile, over on Livingstone Close, they have starter homes on 34-foot lots, ranging in size from 1,050 to just over 1,300 square-feet. These three-bedroom, twobath homes have room in the backyard for a garage off the alley. Prices start at a very affordable $345,000 including lot and GST. “We’re a custom builder,” says Steer. “We do mostly pre-sold custom home projects but we usually have a few spec homes available when a quick possession is required. We also always have show homes available for viewing and often for sale.” In addition to single-family homes, True-Line also does high-end renovation work, some amazing infill projects, and everything in between. “We probably have about 1,500 different home plans on file,” says Neufeld. “Mainly to give people a starting point so they can visualize all the different possibilities.” From there, he says,

customers can mix, match and innovate to fit their wants, needs and lifestyle. No matter what home design they end up with, however, something that remains consistent is True-Line’s dedication to quality construction and craftsmanship. Most of their standard specs are a step above the norm and they will always customize the home to fit a family’s needs. Something you will find ‘standard’ in every True-Line home is a commitment to building as environmentally friendly as possible. They’ve always held themselves to a higher standard and as an official Built Green member builder they are very up to date on the specific guidelines with things like insulation values, windows, low VOC paint, energy efficient HVAC and appliances and low flow plumbing fixtures. “We always want to stay ahead of the pack,” says Steer. “And that means making the right decisions, and getting the most long-term value for our customers. For True-Line Homes the most important thing has always been customer satisfaction. That’s why they have a cabinet full of home building Awards of Excellence in their office. True-Line Homes has come about their reputation for quality the old-fashioned way — they’ve earned it. “We have customers who’ve built four and five homes with us,”

130 Lalor Drive (Laredo, Red Deer) 1,303 sq. ft. Adult villa bi-level 3 bdrm, 2.5 bath 9 Cole Way (Sylvan Lake) 1,538 sq. ft. Modified bi-level 5 bdrm, 3 bath 4929 Aspen Lakes Blvd. (Blackfalds) 1,472 sq. ft. bi-level 5 bdrm, 3 bath

says Steer. “And many repeat customers whose kids are now buying homes from us.” True-Line has been an active part of the Red Deer community for almost 30 years. They have always given back to the community. They have supported projects like the Women’s Emergency Shelter, The Kids With Cancer Society, The Youth and Volunteer Centre, The Boys and Girls Club, to name just a few. In addition to those projects, True-Line has built over 20 Charity homes for organizations like the Kinsmen Club, The Hospital Lottery Homes and the Festival of Trees Homes. In 2012 TrueLine went global with their charity work, taking teams of volunteers to El Salvador and building 100 houses for people living in absolute poverty. Their commitment to their community stays strong always.

For show home hours and for more information visit www.truelinehomes.com

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show home profile

Laebon Homes

Timber Ridge show home perfect for families

he beautiful two-storey show home at 7 Tory Close in Timber Ridge has become a popular destination for families who are looking for a spacious, comfortable home where their family can grow. The Oxford is one of twenty thoughtfully designed home styles that Laebon Homes offers to home owners in Central Alberta. “It’s not common that large volume builders give customers the opportunity to customize their home,” says Kevin Wilkie, Sales Manager, Laebon Homes. “We offer that because our home owners appreciate the chance to make a home feel like their own.” Wilkie explains that customizing a home is an opportunity that Laebon Homes welcomes, though it can present some challenges for large volume builders. More effort must go into accommodating each request and communicating every detail to all individuals working on the home. Laebon works as a team to ensure solid communication and close attention to detail

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throughout the customization process. “It is one reason why people choose to build with us,” says Wilkie. “We consistently provide a customizable, high quality home.” To keep the homebuilding/buying experience as straight forward as possible Laebon builds show homes with features and accessories that are included in the advertised price of the home. This way potential homeowners get a true idea of what’s included. At 7 Tory Close some features have been customized, such as his and hers sinks, divided by a beautiful tiled and glass shower in the master ensuite bathroom. The stairway leading from the main and second floor features maple

railings, rather than the standard stud wall. In addition, nine foot ceilings have been added to the main floor to create a spacious feel. “We like to include a few custom features that people regularly request,” says Aaron Martin, Community Sales Manager, Laebon Homes. Measuring in at a spacious 2,015 squarefeet, the home has three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. All three bedrooms are located on the second floor, separated by a comfortable living room area that includes a small nook, designed for a desk/ computer area. The master bedroom, with walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom, is located to the right of a spacious living room. To the left are two bedrooms, a full bathroom and laundry room. The main floor boasts a beautiful kitchen and great / living room area. The kitchen has maple cabinets that, in 7 Tory Close,

show home profile

“It’s not common that large volume builders give customers the opportunity to customize their home.” are coloured a modern yet warm medium brown with distressed grey tones. The cupboards are designed with ‘soft close’ doors and drawers. The kitchen walls are enhanced with off-white subway tiles and laminate counter top that is thicker than traditional counter tops, to give it a more modern look. Contemporary style lighting is throughout, and stainless steel appliances that come included with all

Laebon homes. Carpet on the top floor and a woodlook laminate on the main floor gives the house both warmth and an up-to-date feel. Another great selling feature of the home is a walk through pantry that joins the double car garage entrance with the kitchen. Between the garage entrance and the front door is another appealing feature for families: a locker area with cubby holes and coat hooks designed perfectly for children or teens coming home from school or activities. 7 Tory Close is located in Timber Ridge that is just minutes away from grocery stores, restaurants and banking in Clearview Market Square. Both Barrie Wilson School and Father Henri Voisin School are found nearby as well. The home is situated on a spacious home site (42x126 feet) in a quiet close and landscaping is included with the home purchase. “We want families to be able to move into the home and enjoy it right away,” says Wilkie. For more information visit www.laebon.com

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

business profile

Summer People of all ages expand their horizons at Red Deer College

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school

PHOTOS COURTESY RED DEER COLLEGE

ummer at Red Deer College is anything but quiet. Every July and August, the hallways are filled with the sights and sounds of children learning and playing and adults creating their own masterpieces. The RDC campus becomes a gathering place for those young and young-atheart to learn and explore new ideas at Series Summer Arts School and Summer Camps. “These summer programs really are hidden gems at Red Deer College,” says Brenda Munro, Dean, School of Continuing Education. “We offer a tremendous variety of programs for participants of all ages, which gives people in our communities — and those from farther away — the opportunity to broaden their horizons as they pursue their craft.” Series Summer Arts School, which will take place from July 10 to August 4, has been offered at RDC for over 30 years, and it is the place for adults to come and get inspired in their art. Workshops in glass blowing, antler carving, drawing, painting, jewelry making, pottery and much more are being offered. “Series Summer Arts School will fulfill all of your art wishes,” says Joyce Howdle, Program Co-ordinator. “Series workshops are five-days long, Monday to Friday, for adults of all skill levels, from practicing, professional artists to those looking for personal or professional growth.” Participants

business profile

will be able to enjoy instructor presentations by professional artists and educators, independent studio time in the evenings, open model sessions and a variety of social activities, all designed to enhance their artistic experience at Series. And the quality of instructors is second-to-none. “Our instructors are accomplished leaders in their disciplines, and they come from all over North America to teach at RDC,” says Howdle. “Series instructors represent a prestigious group of award-winning, highly educated and internationally-renowned artists.” Howdle notes that the talent and skill of the instructors is also mirrored in their approach to teaching, as student feedback consistently praises knowledge, skills and enthusiasm of these leaders. While you are exploring your talents at Series Summer Art School your child can be exploring a summer camp. Last year, over 1,200 youth ages 6 to 18 took part in Red Deer College’s Summer Camps. With a wide array of topics, including science, sports, visual arts, music, theatre, animation, game design, filmmaking, trades, dance and cooking, there is surely something for everyone. “We want campers to experiment, learn and develop new skills and have fun doing it,” says Barb Marsh, Program Coordinator. “It’s always so rewarding for us when we hear back from the youth, and they share that they’ve learned so much at the

camps and that they’ve made friends and had a great time while doing it.” Camps for 2017 include familiar favourites, as well as some new additions. Some of the new camps include “Junior Chefs — Baking” for those who love to be in the kitchen. There’s also “Makerspace and Codemaking” for the tinkerers and fixers, “Super Science Powers” for the comic book lovers, “Mini Kings and Queens Combo” for the child who just can’t keep still and a “Trades Level 1” camp for those who like to work with their hands. “MusiCamp, Film camp, Game Design

“We offer a tremendous variety of programs for participants of all ages, which gives people in our communities the opportunity to broaden their horizons as they pursue their craft.” camp and Animation camp are all returning for another year,” says Howdle, “Plus, there will be a few camps back by popular demand, including Soapbox Racers, All Sports Camp and a female science camp called ‘UROCKG!RL!’” Across all of the camps, Marsh says that Red Deer College works hard to bring in experienced instructors and coaches, which helps to enhance the campers’ experiences. When it comes to accommodations for Series and Summer Camps, many adults participating in Series choose to stay oncampus in RDC’s residences. For youth participating in the overnight summer camps, this is also an exciting part of the experience. “I got to live in a college dorm room for a week, which was pretty much the coolest thing ever,” says Katherine, a 2016 MusiCamper. With the exciting opportunities and interesting courses offered at Series Summer Arts School and Summer Camps, classes often fill fast. For more information and to register, visit rdc.ab.ca/summeratrdc

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Tiny possibilities Nanotechnology manipulates matter’s building blocks to enable some huge new ideas

PHOTOS COU R T ESY A LB ER TA I N NOVAT ES

BY M I L ES D U R R I E

t’s another day on the job at a new home build. All your materials have been delivered and your tools are close at hand. Now what? Well, you could take all those 2x4s and stack them on top of each other, log-cabin style. Seems like the obvious building method, right? What could be easier or more natural? But we know there’s a better way. We rearrange the studs geometrically into a lighter, more efficient structure. Essentially, we’ve taken one object — a pile of wood — and changed it into another: a stud-framed wall. Now imagine doing something similar on an atomic or molecular scale, and you’re close to understanding nanotechnology — the process of making new things by rearranging the building blocks of material. “Scientists around the world now have sophisticated equipment to manipulate matter at the nano scale,” explains Marlene Huerta, principal business advisor and nanoprograms manager at Alberta Innovates, the provincially funded corporation responsible for strategic research and innovation. The prefix “nano” means “billionth,” and nanotechnology deals with particles about 10 to 100 nanometres in size. How small is that? Really, really small. A sheet of normal office paper is about 100,000 nanometres thick. A red blood cell is 2,500 nanometres in diameter. Your fingernails grow about one nanometer every second, and the average man’s beard will grow a nanometer in the time it takes to lift a razor to his face.

GOLD STANDARD Nanoparticles occur in nature, and they’ve been manipulated by humans in a “topdown” way for centuries, says James Gospodyn, chair of the Nanotechnology Systems program at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in Edmonton. “One of the oldest applications of nanotechnology is stained glass — any time 20

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you set foot in an old church and see the windows, you’re seeing how gold changes properties when it’s made into a fine enough powder,” Gospodyn says. “It starts to appear red because of the way light interacts with it, and you can actually tune the colour depending on the size of the particles.” Recent advances in the ability to see and manipulate sub-microscopic particles have now enabled a “bottom-up” approach, where unimaginably small elements are assembled, often using chemical or biological tools. “We’ve been able to make instruments like electron microscopes that today cost 10 per cent of what they did,” Gospodyn says. “We’ve gotten better at making things smaller, and now that we can see the things that we’re doing, we have better control of how they’re done. We can use chemical synthesis to get things to self-assemble,” he says, adding that nanotechnology is “a marriage between chemistry, biology and physics.” At Alberta Innovates, research into the use of nanotechnology in a wide range of applications is ongoing. The corporation’s subsidiary, Innotech Alberta, operates a pilot plant in Edmonton that produces several kilograms per day of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) from wood pulp. “Researchers from Alberta universities, polytechnics and small businesses — as well as researchers and companies from around the world — are evaluating these

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the U.S. Transportation Research Board in its publication Nanotechnology in Concrete Materials. This feature has the potential to double or triple the life of concrete structural components.

SMART STUFF

Technologists Dean Rolheiser and Larissa Toffoli operate the drying equipment in the cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) pilot plant located at InnoTech Alberta in Edmonton.

nanoparticles for different industrial applications including construction, health and the energy sector,” Huerta says.

SHOWING PROMISE The potential for the construction industry is huge. Remember that pile of lumber that’s made more useful by being turned into a wall frame? With nanotechnology, the same kind of approach could be applied to just about any object, from concrete and glass to fasteners and pipes, by tweaking its structure or adding a layer of nanoengineered material. “The use of nanocellulose in concrete is showing promise,” says Gordon Giles, director of forestry at Alberta Innovates. “The inclusion of these materials adds significant performance characteristics. It can reduce cracking due to shrinkage, and add strength as the particles act much like very small and incredibly numerous pieces of rebar.” Other advances being used or tested globally include self-monitoring and selfhealing concrete that uses electrically conductive nanoparticles to detect and identify cracks, and microcapsules to release polymers that seal them, says

Nanotechnology is “a marriage between chemistry, biology and physics.”

Nano-materials can also be engineered for flexibility, hardness, corrosion resistance, photovoltaic properties and lighter weight. “One exciting area of investigation and development for CNC is in ‘smart’ window applications,” Giles says. “Applying a thin film of CNC to the surface of a window could allow for the replacement of blinds and could offer privacy or reduce damage from ultraviolet radiation, as the CNC can change colour with the application of an electrical field.” Nano-coatings can also be used in passive solar collection and storage, allowing surfaces to contribute to a home’s power supply, he adds. Meanwhile, adding CNC or other nano-materials to the resins used to manufacture plywood, OSB and fibreboard promises to improve their fire Gordon Giles resistance significantly. Nano-engineered coatings for existing building materials have similar potential. Surface hardness is a key property of many nano-treated materials, lending durability and selfcleaning properties — the surfaces contain so many atoms there’s nowhere for dirt to get a grip, so it just falls off. “One relatively near-term application for CNC is in polyurethane coatings, perhaps for flooring or other surfaces,” Giles says. “The addition of fairly Marlene Huerta small proportions imparts large improvements in the hardness of the coating, increasing its wear resistant without impacting its colour.”

GREENING UP The team at Alberta Innovates is also excited about the long-term environmental benefits of nanotechnology and especially cellulose nanocrystals, since their source is renewable. Innotech uses wood pulp to produce CNC, but cellulose can be found in a range of other plant fibres as well. CNC could also potentially reduce the use of fossil-fuelbased polymers in building materials. The economic benefits of being on the leading edge of nanotechnology could be significant, too, Huerta says. “Since the launch of Alberta’s nanotechnology strategy in 2007, the number of research facilities and projects has grown and companies from around the world continue to bring their nanotechnology research and development dollars to Alberta.”

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industry news

Bringing it home Local company part of Nano revolution

“N

BY M I L ES D U R R I E

anotechnology is here right now,” says Alain Vadeboncoeur, “and it’s going to change the window industry forever.” Vadeboncoeur represents NanoTechnology Solutions, a local authorized distributor of Sketch Nanotechnology, based in Montreal, the companies are taking advantage of nanotechnology by making it possible to save energy and keep homes more comfortable by increasing the effectiveness of window glass. From the summer sun’s heat to the winter’s icy chill, windows — especially older ones, but even those with thick, double-pane, lowemissivity glass — are a building’s weak spot. In fact, glass can allow as much as 71 per cent of the sun’s direct heat in and 48 per cent of radiant heat — produced by your furnace, for example — to pass right out through it. As part of an overall building envelope, windows are responsible for about 20 to 25 per cent of a building’s total energy loss, according to Canadian and U.S. figures. “Windows look wonderful, but they are very inefficient,” says Paul Baxter partner in NanoTech Solutions with Vadeboncoeur, based out of Innisfail. “Our mission is to educate builders and owners of homes and commercial buildings about the power of the nanoparticle-based glass coating we market and install.” The product originates in Japan, (Sketch Nanotechnologies is the Canadian right holder) where the energy-saving properties of nano-coated windows are well accepted. Measured with a spectrum transmission meter, both ultraviolet and infrared transmission decrease exponentially with the nano coating, while visible light is changed negligibly.

Paul Baxter and Alain Vadeboncoeur.

Light Transmission Chart

Normal untreated window

Untreated double pane

double pane residential 3mm glass

6 mm thick commercial low-e glass

UV transmission: IR transmission: Visible Light:

52.3%

28.4

54%

7.2

77.3%

62.6

*Measurements taken in Calgary on January 9, 2017, using a Linshang Spectrum Transmission Meter

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In other words, the window remains transparent but it blocks almost all UV and thermal radiation. Three-millimetre-thick glass, nanocoated on one side, even handily outperforms six-millimetre low-e industrial glass. The potential for saving construction costs by buying lessexpensive windows and using the nano coating is significant. “It’s a thermal barrier,” says Vadeboncoeur. “The heat and cold do not touch each other,” he says, adding that the product is the result of more than 15 years of testing to ensure a reliable molecular bond between the liquid coating and glass. So how does it work? Nanotechnology involves the use of particles that are between 10 and 100 nanometres in size (a nanometre is one billionth of a metre, and a human hair is about 80,000 nanometres thick). When material is broken down into particles that small, it presents more atoms at the surface level — so its effective surface area increases. A layer that’s just the thickness of one particle can possess extremely high density and hardness. Installation is straightforward. After a thorough degreasing procedure. NanoTechnology Solutions’ certified installers apply the coating to the inside of the glass. After a curing period it reaches Glass with Nano coating its full durability Residential double pane 3mm and effectiveness. “The cost is job 1.0 dependent, but 13.9 the energy savings and comfort 60.4 are immediate,” Baxter says.

in the kitchen

A berry good brunch BY TA M M I E SO R EN S EN

aster Brunch is a big deal in our house. And, while old standbys like bacon and eggs, pancakes or French toast, always seem to go over well with kids and adults alike, it’s sometimes fun to try something a little bit different. This year, I decided to shake things up a bit with fresh berry bruschetta, a really pretty baked egg and puff pastry dish that I haven’t come up with an official name for yet — maybe Egg Pizza? For starters, the Fresh Berry Bruschetta is an easy-tomake appetizer that not only looks great, but the bright flavours of lemon, berry and balsamic paired with smooth ricotta are sure to please everyone’s palate. Moving into the main course, baked eggs on a pastry nest, is so colourful and well, just plain cool looking, that it’s perfect for a Ingredients spring or Easter brunch. It easily doubles or triples depend1 package puff pastry ing on your crowd. 1 cup fresh baby spinach 12 cherry tomatoes 1 small red pepper 1/2 small red onion 1 Tbsp Italian-style seasoning (Epicure makes a great one!) Splash olive oil 1 egg, beaten Ingredients 1 cup ricotta cheese 1 baguette

Baked Eggs on Puff Pastry Nest

Fresh Berry Bruschetta

1 Tbsp liquid honey 1 tsp lemon juice 1 cup ricotta cheese 1/2 cup fresh blueberries 1/2 cup fresh blackberries 1/2 cup fresh raspberries Fresh basil for garnish 1 Tbsp good quality balsamic vinegar Slice baguette to 1/2 inch thick and place bread on an ungreased baking sheet or place directly on the rack in a toaster oven. Broil 3-4 in. from the heat for 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, honey and lemon. Spread over toasted bread. Top with berries; drizzle with balsamic and finely chopped basil to finish.

Salt and pepper 4 large eggs Fresh chopped basil for garnish

Roll out the thawed pastry on a floured surface to form a 12x12 inch square. Cut into four equal squares. Being careful not to cut through, score a 1/4 inch frame around each square of pastry. Poke holes in the pastry on the inside of the frame. Place on parchment lined baking sheet and let pastry rest in fridge for 30 minutes. Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Slice the red pepper and red onion in strips. Toss together the pepper, onions, spice-mix and olive oil. Preheat a medium frying pan and sauté this mixture until the veggies are softened with a little char on them. Remove the pastry from the fridge and brush each square with a beaten egg. On the inside of the frame only, spread 1/4 cup of ricotta cheese. Season the ricotta with salt and pepper to taste. Top each square, inside the frame, with some fresh spinach, the pepper mixture and a couple cherry tomatoes and make a small indentation in the centre. This is where the egg will go shortly. Bake approximately 10 minutes until it starts to rise and begins to brown. Remove the squares from the oven and oh so carefully crack an egg in the centre of each square. Bake for another 10 minutes. The egg may not look set, but if you gently poke it, it should be. Garnish with freshly chopped basil, pepper and salt, serving immediately.

A published food writer and recovering food blogger, Tammie is a home chef with a love of rustic recipes. When she’s not at her day-job, you can find her in the kitchen (or at the local market) cooking up culinary creations while snapping photos with her trusty smartphone. You can follow Tammie on Instagram @foodiewithoutablog.

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culture

Spirits of Alberta ‘Buy local’ now applies to vodka and gin BY B J T U M A N U T

lberta is in a craft alcohol renaissance. The names of craft breweries are becoming household names. Some of us even own their hoodies. This trend was initially made possible in 2013 when laws changed to allow small-batch production of beer and spirits. More importantly, it was the coming together of Alberta’s world-class grains, pristine Rocky Mountain water, dedicated local farmers, and determined entrepreneurs that has catapulted craft brewers and distillers to celebrity-like popularity. “Alberta craft distilleries are amazing,” says Matt Buck, Head Barman at Red Deer’s To the Lost lounge and eatery. “It is important that we, as a province, encourage our local makers and de-velop solid relationships with them.”

Old Prairie Sentinel Distillery, owned and operated by Rob Guigan and Steve Dick, is the new kid on the block having just opened earlier this year. Located next door to likeminded Blindman Brewery in Lacombe, the duo produces two gins as well as a premium single malt vodka and Pickled Pepper Flavoured Vodka made for Albertans with a hankering for the perfect Caesar.

Northern Lands in Edmonton on May 6, 2017, will support and celebrate some of Canada’s best examples of food and drink. Here you can meet representatives from more than 60 Canadian wineries, breweries and distilleries, plus sample the creations from more than 30 top Canadian chefs. Tickets and information can be found at northernlands.ca. Meanwhile, in the heartland of Alberta’s grain belt, we have at least three new craft distilleries working hard to establish themselves.

Stone Heart Distillery in Innisfail is a true labour of love owned by Marnie and Ian Scott. Ian, a fourth generation farmer, makes the mash and runs the still while Marnie oversees the admini-stration and management of the business. Currently, the humble two person operation produces a triple distilled small-batch vodka with a raspberry-flavoured vodka and gin on the horizon.

One of Alberta’s pioneers in producing quality, small-batch craft spirits is Eau Claire Distillery located in Turner Valley. Eau Claire employs the “farm to glass” philosophy using only local Al-berta grain and traditional artisanal farming and distilling methods. Their dedication has earned them a number of awards for their Parlour Gin, Prickly Pear EquineOx and Three Point Vodka.

BJ Tumanut is a graduate of the Canadian Wine Scholar program who teaches wine classes in Red Deer

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CENTRAL ALBERTA Community Residential Development Map

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RED DEER

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getting to know

Andrew Wiebe Owner, Red Deer Carpet One BY T R EEN A M I EL K E

or Andrew Wiebe, the president and owner of Red Deer Carpet One Floor & Home, the connection to Red Deer and Central Alberta runs deep. Although born in Calgary, Andrew moved to Red Deer with his parents and a younger sister and brother when he was only fiveyears-old and proud to call Red Deer home. In 1988 his parents, who also still live in Red Deer, bought Carpet Colour Centre and, says Andrew, “it has been the family business ever since.” Andrew’s youth, he recalls warmly, was filled with family, fun and laughter, not the least of which was the memorable event of taking Karen, the girl destined to be his future wife, skating on Bower Ponds. It was their first date, but, as it turns out, not their last. “We’ve been married for 18 years,” says Andrew. “Karen is an incredible woman and we have two fascinating kids, Evan, (11) and Anja, (eight).” Hanging out at the rec centre’s outdoor pool, picnics at Rotary Park, movies at the old Park Plaza theatre, skiing at Canyon Ski Hill, guitar lessons and cruising Gaetz Avenue in his buddy’s ‘57 Chevy are among his fondest memories of growing up in Red Deer. As a teenager, he also learned the ropes of the family business. “My very first job was sweeping the warehouse, helping the installers and rolling carpet roll-ends.” As a young man, Andrew also worked for the IT department of Totem Building Supplies in Calgary, a position that helped him cement the foundation for his career. A graduate of Lindsay Thurber Com-

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posite High School, he recently received his MBA with honours through an executive program offered by Cornell University in New York and Queen’s University in Kingston. “It was a lot of work to complete while running the company, but it has provided a foundation of business principals to help take Carpet One to the next level.” The best part of the job for Andrew is being part of the tight-knit group of people who are employed at Carpet-One. He also loves seeing the transformation that good design can have on a room. “It is so much fun to see customers express their personality through their décor.” Giving back to the community, and, on a much larger scale, the world, is important to Andrew. He and his wife Karen volunteer with the children and marriage program at Crossroads Church

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where Andrew, thanks, no doubt, to those music lessons he took while growing up, plays guitar on Sunday mornings. He and his family have also initiated several projects through A Better World including schools, water projects, orphanages and clinics. When he has some free time, Andrew and his family enjoy getting away to the mountains to indulge in their love of skiing. “Or spending time in my home music studio.” Central Alberta was home for Andrew growing up, and it’s home for his family now. “Central Albertans really support each other. It has a local feel and business is still conducted via a handshake and referrals. I love that about this place.”

you said it

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I love Mater from Cars!” Aidan, age 4

Who’s your favourite cartoon character?

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Mowgli from the Jungle Book.” Daniel, Manager

BY K I M A M S I N G

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Mickey Mouse, obviously!” Shayla, grade 12

“

Raphael from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!” Jake, grade 4

My favourite cartoon characters are the Minions!” Ayla, age 5

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I like Winnie the Pooh.” Mike, Firefighter

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My favourtie character is Sully from Monsters Inc.” Shelby, Student

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