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contents VO LUME 6 ISS U E 1 4
FA LL 2 0 1 6
20 11
12 HOMES MARKET OVERVIEW
16
07 | On the rebound Super summer for single family home starts COMMUNITY
09 | Small town, big hearts Cochrane residents have long history of helping each other HEALTH
11 | Cochrane Community Wellness Fair It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s good for you COVER FEATURE
12 | The beat of the Heart Apex’s Heartland brings out the best in countryside living
18
SPORTS & RECREATION
18 | Cochrane Agricultural Society 106 years young and still going strong YOU SAID IT
BUILDER FEATURE
22 | What do you like better, Halloween or Christmas?
Brookfield Residential’s Fireside duplex homes astound
ITEMS
14 | Side-by-side in Fireside
DEVELOPER FEATURE
16 | Sunset Ridge beckons New amenities star in Sunset Ridge
04 | Note from the Editor 05 | Mayor’s message 20 | Events 23 | Town of Cochrane map COCHRANE LIVING
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note from the editor
P U B L I S HE R
Magazine MythBusting
Source Media Group A SS O CI AT E P U B L I S HE R /E DI TO R |
To paraphrase the famous writer Mark Twain; the reports of the death of print, and especially magazines, has been greatly exaggerated. In fact, the magazine industry is rolling right along stronger than ever — and I’ve got the market research to prove it. Make sure to join me at the Cochrane Chamber of Commerce’s ‘Lunch and Learn’ event on Wednesday, October 19, at the Days In to find out how to get the most out of your magazine advertising — including how it works in combination with other media to maximize the effetiveness of your company’s communications and marketing strategies. Speaking of marketing research, if you’re in the market for a new home, or just want to be up to speed on how the local housing market is faring these days, make sure to check out our market overview. It’s not always pretty, but we try to tell it like it is. In the meantime, check out this latest edition of Cochrane Living with a special focus on some of the area’s more popular charities and non-profit associations. Cochrane has a long history of western hospitality and being good neighbours and, thanks to the folks in these articles, that’s not going to change any time soon. First up, in ‘Small Town, Big Hearts’, we look at a handful of small groups who are making a big difference in people’s lives. From the Activettes; to the Boys and Girls Club; to the local Humane Society; Royal Canadian Legion; and Addie’s Fabrics; all are contributing to the community in their own distinct way. Another organization that plays a large role in the lives of many Cochrane residents is the local Agricultural Society, featured on page 18. From horse shows and competitions, to the annual fair, the Ag Society has been a part of Cochrane for more than 100 years. Meanwhile, over at the Spray Lakes Sawmills Family Sports Centre, you can take in the Cochrane Community Wellness Fair on October 22. It’s free and there’s something for every person in your family. See the story on page 11. Finally, one event that’s on everyone’s calendars, particularly if you have kids, is Halloween. This year it’s on Monday, October 31, with trick-or-treating going on around town and a kids party at the library the afternoon of the 29th (see their website for details). To get you in the mood and maybe give you some costume ideas, visit the You Said It feature on the inside back cover of this magazine. Of course there’s lots of other events happening in and around town this fall, and we’ve listed as many as we could squeeze in starting on page 20. This edition covers right through the Christmas season so you can start making your holiday plans now. From all of us to all of you: Happy Thanksgiving, Halloween and Christmas!
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Jim Zang
jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca A R T DI R E CTO R |
Jean Faye Rodriguez
jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca G R A P HI C DE S I G NE R |
Dave Macaulay
dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca G R A P HI C DE S I G NE R |
Vivian Zhang
vivian.zhang@sourcemediagroup.ca CO NT R I B U TO R S
David Shepherd,Pepper Rodriguez, Lindsay Holden P HOTO G R A P HY
Kim Amsing, Allison Seto P R O DU CT I O N CO - O R DI NATO R |
Colleen Leier
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca A DV E R T I S I NG S A L E S
Heather Dougall heather.dougall@sourcemediagroup.ca
Andrea Glowatsky andrea.glowatsky@sourcemediagroup.ca
James Pearce james.pearce@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCO U NT I NG |
Norma Robertson
accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca VOLUME 6 ISSUE 13
Copyright 2016 Source Media Group Corp. All rights reserved. Cochrane Living® is published quarterly and is available free through select distribution points in Calgary and Cochrane. 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 reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion. Contact: Source Media Group, 6109 – 6th Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2H 1L9 E-mail info@sourcemediagroup.ca Tel 403.532.3101; Fax 403.532.3109 Toll free 1.888.932.3101; Printed in Canada. Distributed by Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Source Media Group, 6109 – 6th Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2H 1L9
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message from the mayor
The
leaves are starting to turn and everyone is settling back into school-year routines. If
you’re new to Cochrane — welcome! To those settling back in after summer holidays — welcome back! Great fall events are part of Cochrane’s fall routine. Watch for news about golf tournaments, art shows and the Humane Society book sale. Cochrane FCSS and many of their partners organize the community wellness fair on October 22 — it’s a great event to find answers about local programs and resources for you and your family. There are also many local Christmas markets later in the year, and one of our most popular events: Cochrane Light Up. But before the Christmas season arrives, the weather’s still good, meaning we can get out and enjoy our pathways and parks. Riverfront Park features a natural playground, arboretum, new pathways and a wetland walk. It’s connected to the Town’s pathway system and is an easy walk from many neighbourhoods. There’s also parking off Griffin Road just east of Highway 22. Please remember that Cochrane’s time of day watering restrictions are in effect year-round. As you think about putting your garden to bed for the season, why not incorporate more native and droughtresistant plants for next year? We’re always thinking about ways to work together for the future of water in our community. Fall is when your Town Council and staff are hard at work on the 2017 Town budget. Lots of budget information, including an overview of the process, as well as a report on progress of capital projects is on Cochrane.ca/Budget. Work is moving along on Cochrane’s new aquatic and curling/multi-sport centre at the Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre. Check the progress of this $45-million facility or contribute to the building campaign at RocktheWaves.ca. Council members are always available to hear your thoughts or answer questions; our contact information is on the Town website: cochrane.ca/Council. And everyone is welcome to come to Council meetings and watch how issues are discussed and how decisions are made: we meet twice each month, except December when we only meet once. Wishing you a wonderful fall,
Mayor Ivan Brooker On behalf of Town Council and staff www.cochrane.ca
TownofCochrane
@TownofCochrane
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homes market overview
On the rebound Super summer for single family home starts n By Jim Zang
O
verall, it’s been a pretty good summer for the Cochrane new home market, for both builders and buyers, particularly in the single-detached category. In fact, June new home starts outpaced last year by 33 per cent (see Chart A), while July 2016 was just a single house short of July of last year. As a Sociology major, I can tell you that in scientific terms one home is statistically insignificant. Professor Goldenberg would be proud of me! Where the biggest differences show up is in the multi-family segment, as just a couple of big condominium apartment or townhome projects can skew the numbers by literally hundreds of starts. Out of 2015’s total starts to date (628),
As far as prices go, the trend
continues to favour buyers as the
average price of a single detached home dropped by 12.5 per cent.
more than 70 per cent fall under the multi-family category. By contrast, 2016 has only seen 63 multi-family starts to date. As far as prices go, the trend continues to favour buyers as the average price of a single detached home dropped by 12.5 per cent (see Chart B). However, the median price (the price which has the same number of homes priced above it as below it) may be a more accurate reflection of this as it eliminates the effect any homes at the extreme high or low ends of the market might have on the average. The median price for a single family home also showed a slight drop heading into the summer months, but only by seven per cent. Looking at both the median and the average together probably gives you the best snapshot of where the market really is. Bottom line: there’s a little less new home selection in town right now, but if you find a builder and model you like, it’s still a pretty good time to buy. n
Chart A
Housing Starts
JUNE 2016
JULY 2016
Single-detached 28
JUNE 2015
22
JULY 2015
21
YTD 2016
23
YTD 2015
134 187
Semi-detached 0 14 8 20 42 110 Row
0 0 19 13 21 224
Apartment 0 0 0 0 0 107 ALL
34 36 48 56 197 628
Chart B
Absorbed single detached unit prices
JUNE 2016
JULY 2016
Median $467,500 $435,000 Average $526,154 $460,397 Source: www.cmhc.ca
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…there’s a little less new home selection in town right now, but
if you find a builder and model you like, it’s still a pretty good time to buy.
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community
Small town, big hearts Cochrane residents have long history of helping each other n By David Shepherd
E
very town has a story. The story of Cochrane begins in 1881 when the Cochrane Ranche was established. It’s a story of neighbourly ranchers helping each other through floods, droughts, and other disasters. The story continues through the early 20th century, when a depression followed by the first World War shutdown the village’s industrial base, leaving approximately 300 residents with nothing to rely on except for each other. Cochrane’s history is riddled with tough times, but more importantly — it’s filled with positive stories of the community that came together to help each other through those tough times.
THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF COCHRANE AND AREA (BGCCA) The BGCCA dedicates their time to providing a safe and supportive place for children to experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, and develop skills that will allow them to become confident members of the community. They offer programming for children between 0 – 18, including licensed and accredited out of school care for grades K – 6 with camp weeks in the summer; free tutoring through their Rogers Raising the Grade Program; Shirley Puttock free youth-drop in at their youth space, which includes a pool table, free snacks, and a music corner; and free programming in eight schools in Cochrane and the surrounding area, which includes Healthy Relationships, Chess Clubs, and Boys and Girls Groups. “The Club has seen many changes in 2016,” says Executive Director Shirley Puttock. “With the support of the community and the Board of Directors, we’re continuing to move forward in positive ways.” In November, the Club will be doing their annual pet-friendly Santa photos at Anything Grows, with dates and times to be posted at a later date. If you’re interested, contact the BGCCA through their website, www.bgccochrane.ca.
THE COCHRANE AND AREA HUMANE SOCIETY “We want to become a regional leader in building communities that value and treat animals with respect,” says Jaimie Anton, Fund Development Officer at the Cochrane and Area Humane
Society (CAHS). “We want to participate in initiatives that reduce indifference towards the suffering and overpopulation of animals.” At CAHS, homeless animals receive food, shelter, medical care, spay and neuter surgery, permanent identification, and most importantly — the chance to find a new home with a loving family. The CAHS promotes responsible pet guardianship by running humane education programs, day camps, and in-school presentations to local children. It’s not just about the animals, though — the Pet Safe Program aims to help victims of domestic violence, and the Emergency Boarding Program helps families and individuals in crisis. 2016 has been a busy year for the CAHS, says Anton. “We have a lot of animals looking for new homes. We also started construction on our new Rehabilitation and Education Centre in July, which will provide enhanced programs for both public and shelter animals.” Upcoming events include the fall book sale which runs from October 14th to 16th at the shelter, and the fundraising gala on November 5th at the Links at GlenEagles. Volunteer or donate by visiting the CAHS website at CochraneHumane.ca.
THE COCHRANE ACTIVETTES Gotham has Batman, and Cochrane has the Activettes, a group of around 50 ladies dedicated to helping Cochrane by volunteering. “What don’t we do?” laughs Helen Parnell, President of the Activettes. “We cover everything from cradle to grave!” The Cochrane Activettes Food Bank packs an average of 20 food hampers a week with enough food to last month and operates both a school lunch program and a breakfast program. The Activettes own and operate Helen Parnell Clothesline, a thrift store for gently used clothing (now in a new location at #5 122 4th Avenue West), with all proceeds fed back into the community, including support for Cochrane pregnancy care, a local women’s assistance service, and the Bethany Care home, among others. They also volunteer at the Bethany monthly birthday tea, running the annual Labour Day pancake breakfast, and de-
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community
livering daily hot meal service from Big Hill, among other activities. If you’re interested in becoming an Activette, contact them via their website at, CochraneActivettes.com.
Parade. Both children and adults are welcome at their Friday Night BBQs (6 – 7 p.m.), and the Legion is hosting an Oktoberfest event on October 22nd. Those looking to volunteer should email CochraneLegionEvents@ gmail.com.
THE ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION Lest We Forget. The Royal Canadian Legion stands behind that phrase, says the Functions Manager of the Cochrane chapter, Courtney Reinhardt. “Our main goal is to provide support for local veterans and the community.” Currently, the Royal Canadian Legion provides support for the local cadet organizations 952 RCACS Westjet and the 2512 RCACC King’s Own Calgary Regiment, among other organizations, clubs, and associations. In 2016, the Legion has begun hosting new events, including a Paint Night for kids and Bingo Nights, (the first Tuesday of every month). You can always find Legion volunteers at local events, including the Canada Day pancake breakfast and the Labour Day
ADDIE’S CREATIVE FABRICS Addie’s is a Cochrane institution, and Janet Byl, the owner and operator of the store, sees it as her duty to give back to the community. “We act as a drop off and pick-up location for donated yarn, and we ask our customers to please bring back finished knitted or crocheted articles which are then donated to the Cochrane Activettes for their Christmas hamper program. “We offer our classroom to a weekly knitting/crocheting group at no charge,” says Byl. Addie’s also sells pottery made in their local pottery studio, with the proceeds going to the Activettes. The fabric store has a soft spot in its heart for veterans, lending its space to the Quilts of Valour organization, which makes quilts to give to veterans. Anyone looking to donate fabric should call the store or visit their website at, AddiesCreativeFabrics.com. n
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health
Cochrane Community Wellness Fair It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s good for you
n By David Shepherd
H
ealth, wellness, and community are the three pillars of the Cochrane Community Wellness Fair, says Candy Weisner, Cochrane’s Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) Programmer. “We want people to feel like they’re a part of the community. Whether they’re new to town, new to the country, or they’ve lived here for a while and just haven’t gotten involved yet — we want people to know what’s available and who’s in their community.” The fair takes place at the Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre on October 22nd, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Local businesses and organizations will set up exhibits around the jogging track on the second floor. “We really promote interactive booths,” says Weisner. “Those are the ones that get the most attention. Last year, we saw exhibitors coming forward with some really good activities. We have activities for youth, seniors, immigrants, people who are new to town, and people looking for volunteer opportunities.” Last year, five minute massages and the Cochrane Curling Club’s Curling Wii booth were big hits. Among the exhibits this year, expect to see mascots, the Cochrane Fun Van, and a treasure hunt for the children. “Awareness of what’s available to the community is important, but I also find a lot of people making great connections,” says Weisner. “The attendees meet face to face with local businesses, services, and organizations, and they also meet their neighbours. For
the exhibitors, it’s a great networking opportunity. This event really helps tie the community together.” Last year, just over 300 people attended the community fair, and this year Weisner hopes to double the number. One way to do that? By offering a free shuttle to and from the event from the Cochrane FCSS building. Buses leave at 10 and 12, and will circle back at various times throughout the day. The Cochrane Community Wellness Fair is free to attend. Attendees are encouraged to bring a donation to the food bank. As for Weisner’s hopes for this year? “I really hope that at the end of the day, anyone who comes feels like they’re more a part of the community. We want to help people see what’s out there, and give them opportunities to connect and participate.” n
“The attendees meet face to face
with local businesses, services, and organizations, and they also meet their neighbours.”
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cover feature
APEX HEARTLAND Jayman BUILT
The beat of the Heart Apex’s Heartland brings out the best in countryside living n By
Pepper Rodriguez
I
n today’s busy urban life, a return to the countryside to a simpler lifestyle is what many are looking for. And buyers seem to have found this rarified yet refined character in Cochrane’s Heartland. The windswept, close-to-nature grasslands that make Heartland unique is a key factor in its popularity. And the panoramic views of the nearby Rockies that it offers as well as its easy accessibility — given that it’s just off Highway 1A — also contribute to why people want to live here. “Homeowners love the relaxed, family-friendly lifestyle Heartland offers, and mountain views, plus the quick, relaxing drive to Canmore, Banff, and the mountain parks, as well downtown Calgary from Highway 1A makes living here a breeze,” says Susan Henderson, General Manager for Apex Developments, the community’s developer Heartland is a 250-acre community, when it is complete it will have approximately 1,500 homes that are a mix of single-family, duplex and freehold townhomes. There is a local commercial site, lots of parks and a great pathway system to get around the whole community safely. It also has three points of access for convenience traveling in and out of the community. The relaxed, countryside lifestyle it offers goes handily with the Galloway
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wide range of homes they offer has certainly been a hit and their builder group has enjoyed a very productive summer. This is certainly true for Excel Homes — one of the three builders in this northwest Cochrane community. “Sales volume in Heartland has been great this year! We launched a new phase to accommodate various price point/timeline needs for our homebuyers,” says Excel Homes’ area manager, Charla Power. Excel offers single-family front-drive garage homes, with 11 models to choose from ranging in size from 1,756 to 2,534 square-feet and priced from $350,000 to $475,000 they certainly have a wide selection to choose from. Excel — the builder arm of Apex Developments — has had a tremendous response in Heartland and their townhome product had all sold out, although Power says they have plans to release a new multi-family development in the community soon. But if townhomes is what you’re looking for, then Heartland still has you covered with Birchwood Properties new The Brand townhomes.
cover feature Inspired by Cochrane’s spirited Western heritage, Brand Townhomes offers the best opportunity to enjoy active living, comfort, and convenience, says Birchwood’s Adele Kerr. Kerr, Sales and Marketing Manager at Birchwood Properties, says the response to the design of the homes have been very positive. “We have taken the time to learn and produce what today’s buyers are looking for, and we are offering the only attached garage townhomes in Heartland — at an unbelievable value.” Brand offers three townhome styles: the Galloway, Highland, and the Devon. With a mix of two-and three-storey townhomes, each with a choice of two or three bedrooms and a single or double attached garage. Sizes range from 1,055 to 1,372 square-feet and start at $229,900 before tax. Brand Townhomes are also pet-friendly! As an extra perk, condo fees are free for one year for a limited time. Then there’s Jayman BUILT. “As we continue to grow as a community, we are continuing to offer our buyers affordable homes here,” says Jayman BUILT
area manager, Kym Daigle. “Buyers are loving our variety in floor plans, especially at a price point that really makes sense.” Jayman BUILT has two show homes here: the Nitro, which starts from 1,700 square-feet in size, and is priced to start from around $373,777; and Dakota at 2,001 square-feet and starting from $400,489, Prices include home, lot and GST. Square footage starts at 1,674 for $373,777 and our largest model is 2,405 square-feet for $436,105. “All of our plans include thoughtful designs with our buyers wish list in mind,” she says. “We have options for a tandem garage, perfect for storing your toys, a double deck design, great for lounging on one deck, and barbecuing on the other. And for the ladies, we have a beautiful his/her spa-like ensuite option. We try to offer each buyer a home that’s tailored to their wants and needs.” Jayman BUILT has a 10,000-square-foot design centre, which allows clients to customize the entire interior of their home. “We provide a designer for the day to help you make your selections, This is a wonderful opportunity to have a one of a kind home,” Daigle adds. Excel, likewise, has its own interactive presentation centre. “We’ve created the presentation centre to simplify the process and make it a lot easier for our buyers, which people really appreciate,” Power says. Buyers here haven’t needed a lot of convincing though. “A lot of our buyers have been from referrals,” says Power, “as well as buyers wanting to move up within the community, which adds to the tightknit structure of the community itself.” n
For more information, visit www.heartlandcochrane.com
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builder feature
BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIAL
Side-by-side in Fireside Brookfield Residential’s Fireside duplex homes astound n By
Pepper Rodriguez
D
uplexes these days are called by a lot of names attached homes, semi-detached, side-by-side, no matter what they are called they’re still the smartest option to live a single-family lifestyle while enjoying townhome affordability. And no condo fees! Brookfield Residential has long mastered the form and their award-winning duplex designs have been best sellers in all their communities. That’s why when it came time to plan the housing styles they will be bringing to the new Cochrane community of Fireside, their duplexes were at the top of the list. Fireside — developed by La Vita Land — is the first instance that the multi-awarded builder and developer will be building homes in Cochrane, and their homes — especially the duplexes — did not disappoint. Brookfield Residential offers six duplex models in Fireside from 1,598 to 2,179 square-feet and starting from the $340,000s, including GST. They are available in laned and front-drive up garage models. One of the most popular is the SAM Award winning The Linden, a laned duplex model. “It has unbeatable value, a well-designed, well-executed floor plan, available at a very budget-friendly price, there’s nothing quite like a Brookfield Residential home in Fireside,” says area sales manager, Matt Arnold. The Linden is 1,398 square-feet and is available in two- or three-bedroom models with two-and-a-half baths, including a four-piece attached master ensuite. Buyers can also get creative with the use of the Linden’s flex space in its generously-proportioned main floor. The kitchen/dining area is separated from the front entry and living space by a half-bath and useful side entry/mud room. The side entrance is a standard feature that buyers — especially those with pets — have grown to love, Arnold says. It’s also a home you can grow into and there are opportunities for fu-
Linden
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ture “sweat equity,” he adds. “The basement rough-ins for a bathroom are standard and makes it easy should you decide to extend your living space. A parking pad is provided at the back where you can build a big detached garage, too.” Brookfield Residential has three quick possession duplex models available if Fireside right now for buyers looking to move in right away. Duplexes aren’t the only home products Brookfield is offering in Fireside. They also have single-family front drive move-ups from the mid $400,000s, and single-family laned homes from the upper $300,000s. It is Fireside’s endearing charm that buyers can’t seem to get enough of. Its closeness to nature, the family-friendly parks and tot lots, and the utter convenience of life in this quaint community in Cochrane’s southern outskirts is what makes living here more pleasurable — and attainable. “Sales at Fireside of Cochrane have been steady since we started building in the community,” says Brookfield Residential Sales Manager, Lisa Kaiser. “We have been pleased with the level of interest to find the right home and the knowledgeable questions of the people visiting our presentation centre.” n
For more information visit www.discoverfireside.com
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developer feature
MELCOR DEVELOPMENTS
Sunset Ridge beckons New amenities star in Sunset Ridge n By
Pepper Rodriguez
T
he look of a new community and the convenience of an established neighbourhood, Sunset Ridge has fulfilled its promise of being one of Cochrane’s best, as the opening of new amenities here make life all that much easier. Sunset Ridge is now selling in Phases 19 and 20, which are directly north of Cochrane’s newest school, RancheView School that just opened this school year in this Melcor Developments community. “Our entire builder group is selling in these two phases, which means homebuyers can choose from the entire spectrum of home styles,” says Catharina Mendonça, marketing manager for Melcor Developments. “We are seeing very strong sales since the spring, as many buyers are wanting to live within walking distance of the school,” she adds. Sunset Ridge also has a beautiful new playground in Phase 14 that was completed this past spring. “It is located across from Jayman BUILT’s fee-simple townhomes, and it’s been a very welcome addition to the young families in the area,” Mendonça says. There’s more to come, as Sunset Ridge also has plans for a linear park that will run through the centre of the community from north to south and will feature outdoor exercise equipment for residents to use as they walk along. “We want our residents to be able to enjoy their community year round while promoting healthy active lifestyles. We are excited to have construction on this linear park started in spring 2017,” she says. Buyers relish the fact that Sunset Ridge offers a complete line of housing products that fit all lifestyles and budgets. Jayman BUILT offers townhomes, semi-estate and estate homes. Landmark Homes has estates and semi-estates as well, and Excel Homes and Homes by Avi have move-up front drive garage homes. Buyers will also appreciate the affordability that Sunset Ridge of-
fers, with townhomes starting in the low $300,000s, semi-detached homes from the $340,000s, front drive homes from the low $400,000s and estate homes from the mid $500,000s. Mendonça notes that homes here are more affordable than ever, and that prices have definitely been adjusted due to economic conditions. To further entice buyers, Mendonça says they have a special promotion running from September 1st to October 31st that gives buyers a $5,000 rebate upon closing of the sale on their new townhome. “We are seeing a lot of traffic from Calgary who want use the equity from the sale of their Calgary home towards downsizing without having to compromise a lot of space or amenities,” she says. “We have also seen a number of buyers coming from Edmonton and Fort McMurray due to some relocations. We are also seeing many buyers from N.W. Calgary and Canmore who are downsizing and looking for better affordability in a small town where they will still be able to enjoy some fantastic amenities and proximity to the Rocky Mountains.” Sunset Ridge is a community where residents can have it all: location, selection, and affordability. What more could anyone want? “Melcor has nearly a century of experience in developing communities where neighbours can live, work, shop and play. Our goal is always to develop residential and commercial places that are rich in amenities that serve our residents’ every day needs,” says Mendonça. n
For more information visit www.melcor.ca
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sports & recreation
Cochrane Agricultural Society 106 years young and still going strong n By David Shepherd
Photos by Allison Seto
O
n an overcast weekend in February, Don Hepburn, Julie Simard, and Isabel Gimber present a silver cup at the Cochrane Hunter Horse Show. A tarnished plaque from 1910 places the Cochrane and District Agricultural Society’s age at 106 years. For Gimber, the secretary of the Ag Society, the cup represents another piece of the organization’s storied history. “We incorporated with the provincial government when they started funding in 1973. But we knew there was more Ag Society history. Now we know we carry on the legacy from 1910.” Gimber and her family have been volunteering at the Ag Society since 1997, when they first moved to Cochrane. Simard, the current Vice President, moved to Cochrane two years ago, and decided to get more involved after enjoying the Ag Society for the previous six years. “I thought it was the best way to give back and help out,” she says. Membership is $15 for an individual and $25 for a family. But you don’t have to be a member to enjoy the facility, says Gimber. “It’s open to anybody. We get somewhere between 35,000 and 50,000 users per year.” Users pay per use of the facility. And the facilities are impressive. Located on the northwest corner of
Don Hepburn and Julie Simard
Isabel Gimber
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the junction of highways 22 and 1A, you’ll find a heated indoor arena, two outdoor arenas, a grass stadium jumping ring, a dressage ring, a cross country course, and an equestrian sand track. “Our main goal is to provide a unique venue for people to come experience some rural activities within the relative urban setting,” says Gimber. “People see our facility as an open book of possibilities. We get a variety of users, and we want to provide them with a great Cochrane community experience.” User groups range in ages from 6 to 70, says Simard. The Cochrane Pony Club, the Cochrane BMX Club, the Big Hill West 4H Club, and the Cochrane Roping Club all spend time using the grounds. A not-forprofit organization, the Ag Society also opens its gates to other charities in the area, including training for search and rescue dogs and the Cochrane Humane Society. Funding for the Ag Society comes from Rockyview County, the Town of Cochrane, and a variety of provincial grants and sponsors. In addition to various equine-related events, the Ag Society also hosts its annual fair. “We want to provide a unique fair to Cochrane,” says Gimber. 2016’s fair saw a midway, equestrian events, petting zoos, mechanical bulls, dog agility contests, and a barn-turned-marketplace. Those interested in providing sponsorships or volunteering can contact the Ag Society through their website, CochraneAgSociety.com. n
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events OCTOBER
1
The 9th Annual Lindsay Leigh Kimmett Memorial Foundation Monumental Tournament of Aces, The Links of GlenEagles. wwwlindsaykimmett.net Cochrane Art Club Fine Art Sale, St. Andrew’s United Church, 128 1st Street East, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.. Admission Cathy Albrecht is free. Please bring a donation to the Food Bank. www.cochraneartclub.com
2
Cochrane Cochrane Girlfriends Gathering, Cochrane RancheHouse, 101 RancheHouse Road, 11a.m. – 6 p.m. Cochrane Girlfriends Gatherings is designed to bring women together to bond with their BFF’s, reconnect with friends, and make new ones. www.opulencealliance.com/ cochrane-womens-show
14-16
Cochrane Humane Society Fall Book Sale, 1 – 5 p.m. A wide selection of new releases, true crime, romance, children’s books, cook books, biographies, books about pets, travel books, DVDs, VHS, and CDs will be available. Thanks to our sponsor, Big Hill Veterinary Services, all proceeds benefit the shelter. We will be accepting Book Sale donations at the beginning of October. 62 Griffin Industrial Point. www.cochranehumane.ca
15
Helping Hands Cochrane Wide Food Drive to help fill the local Activettes Food Bank. Volunteers Welcome! 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Bow Valley Baptist Church, Cochrane. www.cochraneactivettes.com
19
29
Foothills Art Club Annual Fall Show and Sale, St. Andrews United Church, 128 1 Street East. 10 a.m – 4: p.m. Free admission, free draw for an original painting, refreshments. www.foothillsartclub.com
NOVEMBER
Lunch n’ Learn, (Effective Use of Various Media Types) 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Topic: Effective Use of Various Media Types. How do you get your message out there? Learn how to use the various media avenues in an effective way to build your message and profits. We will have media representatives from print, radio, etc. available to discuss and give insights. Cochrane Days Inn, 5 Westside Drive. Fees/Admission: Members: $15 online registration; or $25 walk-in Nonmembers: $25 online registration; or $30 walk-in. www.cochranechamber.ca
22
Community Wellness Fair, Spray Lakes Sawmills Family Sports Centre, 800 Griffin Road. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Free with donations to the Activettes Food Bank gratefully accepted. Over 60 exhibitors surrounding the upstairs walking track, demos, taste tests and interactive activities throughout. (See article page 11). www.cochrane-tourism.ca/wellness-fair Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation Annual Dinner & Auction, Cochrane RancheHouse. Doors open at 5 p.m, dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets $75 per person. All funds support the Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation Bert Sheppard Library & Archives. (Tickets at the Bert Sheppard Library or call 403-932-3782.) www.smflibrary.ca/library
19
Cochrane Humane Society Fall Pedicure from 1 – 4 p.m. For just $5 donation per pet, you can get your four-legged friend feeling and looking great! All proceeds will benefit the animals. 62 Griffin Industrial Point. www.cochranehumane.ca Cochrane Light Up, First Street. 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. Welcome Christmas to Cochrane with fireworks by GlobalFest (dependent on snow cover), Mrs. Claus’ Shopping Area For Kids, Ice Carvings and Hayrides. Free hot dogs and hot chocolate around the fire pots, but donations are gratefully appreciated to cover the costs. Christmas carols, children’s activities. Santa courtesy of Activettes’ Share your Christmas. Food Bank donations accepted. www.cochrane-tourism.ca/cochraneevents/november-events
20
Christmas Market, Cochrane RancheHouse, 101 RancheHouse Road, 10 a.m – 5 p.m. Shop a diversity of fine crafts, jewelery, home furnishings, decorations, clothing, photography, art, and more. More than 70 vendors. $2 entry fee. Food bank donations are welcome. www.cochrane-tourism.ca/christmasmarket-at-the-cochrane-ranchehouse
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events n To list your event email your information
to jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca. For more listings and further information check www.cochraneevents.ca or www.cochrane-tourism.ca
26
Chamber Christmas Party from 6 p.m. – Midnight at Frank Wills Hall, 405 1 Street, Cochrane. Let us do the planning for you. We organize the venue, entertainment, food and beverage. All you need to do is bring your staff! www.cochranechamber.ca
DECEMBER
2-11
Cochrane Vision Theatre presentation of Goody Two Shoes, A Pantomime. It’s a show comprising slapstick humour, songs and dance. Lots of audience participation. The kids love the shows as well as the adults. Performances at the Cochrane RanchHouse, 101 RancheHouse Road. Adults: $15, Children (16 and under): $10. Check online for show times. www.cochranevisiontheatre.com
3
Kids Christmas Shopping Event, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Cochrane Home Treasures, #10 118 1st Avenue West. Volunteers will help children 12 and under select up to 5 Christmas gifts for a $5 donation per child. A surprise guest will put a smile on everyones face! Parents welcome. All donations will support Home Treasures Christmas Wish Program. www.cochranehometreasures.ca
5
Cochrane Festival of Trees at Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre, 800 Griffin Road. Come for a celebration December 5th from 12 – 2 p.m. Vote for you favourite tree. Help decorate the community tree. Support Ronald McDonald House. Boys and Girls Club Silent Auction. Cookies and Hot Chocolate. Pictures with Santa. Trees on display until December 27th. www.slssportscentre.com
10
Cochrane Farmers’ Market Last Minute Christmas Market, Spray Lakes Sawmills Family Sports Centre, 800 Griffin Road. Begins at 9 a.m. www.cochrane-environment.org Cochrane Humane Society Christmas Party Open House, noon – 5 p.m. Take a stroll through the shelter and visit our residents, purchase a gift for the animals at Norm’s Nook and place it under the Shelter Wish Tree for the homeless pets in our care. Make sure to pick up some delicious Christmas baking at the Bake Sale, and get your pet’s portrait with Santa! There are also raffles, refreshments and prizes! 62 Griffin Industrial Point. www.cochranehumane.ca The Holiday Parade of Lights www.cochranelightup.com
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12-16
3rd Annual Cochrane Santa Claus Community Visits from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Santa will visit several Cochrane communities spreading holiday cheer. www.cochranesantaclaus.ca
31
Martin Parnell’s Annual Run/ Walk, Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Registration on site, beginning at 8 a.m. Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, 2K along the Bow River. Proceeds to benefit the Lindsay Kimmett Kindergarten Playground in Tanzania. www.cfms.org/news/studentspotlight/lindsay-leigh-kimmettmemorial-foundation
ONGOING DECEMBER Stuff A Bus. Stay tuned for information. Cochrane and Area Events Society (CAES) and the Cochrane Activettes are doing the 4th Annual Stuff A Bus event. www.cochraneevents.ca
you said it
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What do you like better, Halloween or Christmas? n By Kim Amsing
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Colin Engineer
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I like Christmas because of presents and family!
I like Christmas because of giving and getting presents.
Emily Grade 8
I like Christmas because it is very festive and everyone gets together, and the giving of gifts. Autumn Employee, Heavenly Outhouse
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I like Halloween because you can dress up and have fun without being weird.
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I like both! Because of presents! Josee, Landyn and Evan New to Cochrane
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I like Christmas because I can spend time with family. Brenda
Gabie
Retired
Employee, Heavenly Outhouse
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I just don’t like Halloween. Peggy Owner, Traditions
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I like Halloween because I like to dress up. Phoenix and Sheenagh School Nurse
I like Halloween because of the candy and dressing up like anything. Kasandra Employee, Heavenly Outhouse
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