Okotoks Living - Winter 2014 by Source Media Group

contents WINTER 2014 | VOLUME 5 ISSUE 23

culture & history

It’s all about the art Local artisans united by passion for their craft

people

Ice dreams Talking hockey with the Mayor

entertainment Cover photography by Don Molyneaux

TGIF 10 things to do in Okotoks on a Friday night

sports & recreation

Eating to win Athletes need to pay special attention to diet

feature

Community visioning A people-friendly way of planning for the future

business

Stars shine at Service Excellence Awards Red carpets rolled out for Chamber of Commerce’s first-class event

sustainability

Giggle your way to green Eco-Tips makes being environmentally-friendly fun

Battery powered Electric car drivers get a charge out of Okotoks

business

One of a kind SNAPS offers unique services for special needs families

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community

Winter walk Your body, and community, thanks you

homes

Now and ZEN Avalon Master Builders brings ZEN to Okotoks

you said it …

What’s on your Christmas wish list?

22 21

items

08 Editor’s Message 10 Town of Okotoks Message 50 Events 52 Map

@OkotoksLiving OkotoksLiving

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editor’s note

All I want for Christmas WHAT DO YOU want for Christmas? It’s a question asked of thousands every year at this time, with thousands of different answers. For some, it’s about the big picture; think world peace. For others, it’s a little closer to home, with time spent with family and friends being the most precious gift. For kids, of course, it’s about Old Saint Nick and all those presents he drops off. He may not be Santa, but our man Tristen Heatherington asked a few Okotokians what was on their Christmas list this year and we’ve published some of your answers on our You Said It page. If you said “art”, you’re in luck! We’ve profiled some local artists, and tell you where to find their work, just in time for gift giving. Somebody who might have hockey gear on their list is Okotoks Mayor Bill Robertson. Join myself and the mayor on page 17 as we have probably the most non-political — and probably only on-ice — interview he’s ever done. One group of people who received an early Christmas present are the winners of the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Service Excellence Awards. Okotoks Living was a major sponsor of the event, supplying the red carpet photographer and presenting the Small Business of the Year award. Check out who the winners were on page 28. If you’re not playing hockey with the mayor on Friday nights, there’s still plenty of other fun things to do. We’ve just scratched the surface with our list of 10 things to do in Okotoks on a Friday night. Some people just like to walk, and that’s okay too. In fact it’s more than okay if it’s on Winter Walk Day. And to fuel that walk, make sure you’re eating the right foods as we talk with a couple of local experts about how to eat for success. And speaking of fuel, Brent King’s car doesn’t use any. It’s 100 per cent electric. We caught up to Brent as he got a charge in Okotoks. Of course creating the right future doesn’t just happen, it takes work. That’s what the recent Visioning program has been all about: empowering residents from all walks of life to have input and/or influence over the shape of Okotoks future. It’s an opportunity folks in the big city just don’t have, proving once again what a great

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mayor’s message

Message from Mayor and Town Council

n behalf of Okotoks Council and Administration, I extend warm greetings to all residents and hope you and your families have a joyful Christmas season. This holiday season, we encourage residents to shop locally and visit the many shops and

boutiques in downtown Okotoks and throughout our many other shopping districts. Throughout the season, don’t miss the opportunity to pick up an Olde Towne Christmas Passport — for every $100 spent in Olde Towne Okotoks at participating stores, you’ll be entered to win $1000 in Olde Towne Dollars! For full details about the program visit: www. oldetowneokotoks.ca. We would like to remind residents who need help or want to help during the holiday season of the several organizations in the Foothills providing Christmas support: The Okotoks Food Bank, decorate the Tree of Warmth with your new scarves, gloves and toques at the Okotoks Art Gallery for local charities, The Oilfields Food Bank, The Salvation Army Food Bank, The Okotoks Family Resource Centre Holiday Helpers Program, and more. Please visit www.okotoks.ca/holidaysupport.aspx for information on these programs and others. We want to ensure that EVERYONE has a wonderful holiday season! The Town also invites residents to participate in the activities that occur in our community at this time of year. Skate with Santa on December 14, take part in the Kid’s New Year’s Eve

Councillors Ray Watrin, Tanya Thorn, Matt Rockley, Mayor Bill Robertson, Councillors Carrie Fischer, Ken Heemeryck, Ed Sands.

Party at the Recreation Centre on December 31 or join us for Winter Walk Day at the Pason Centennial Arena on February 4. See the Town calendar of events at www.okotoks.ca for all event details. You can also check out some exciting Okotoks Bisons and Oilers hockey action! We look forward to many new clients as New Year’s resolutions guide our residents to visit the Okotoks Recreation Centre and Pason Centennial Arena for some indoor exercise. As 2014 comes to an end, we begin focusing on 2015, which looks like it will be another successful year for Okotoks. I look forward to all that is coming up for our community including learning more about what our future will hold with the completion of the extensive Community Visioning process. On behalf of Okotoks Council, I wish all our residents a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy

Become a fan of Town of Okotoks

and prosperous New Year.

Mayor WM. (Bill) Robertson On behalf of Town Council

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culture

It’s all about the art Local artisans united by passion for their craft STORY AND PHOTOS BY JULIE ROBERTSON

S ANY ARTIST will tell you, it’s all about the art. Oh sure, it’s nice to sell some pieces, everyone’s got to make a living afterall, but, in the end, for them, it’s all about the art. It’s their passion. It’s what they were born to do, and it shines through in their work. Okotoks is home to several such people, and Okotoks Living recently caught up with four local artists — Robin Thibodeau, Janifer Calvez, Shirley Paradis and Cheryl Taylor — to talk about who they are and where they draw their inspiration. Robin L. Thibodeau “I get to be my own boss and work on projects that inspire me. I find this to be therapeutic to the soul,” says artist Robin Thibodeau, 37. A born and raised Okotoks resident, Robin says her most memorable artistic experience was graduating with Honours from the Alberta College of Art and Design in 1997. She began her career as an art teacher through the Okotoks Continuing Education program in 2001. She “got her feet wet,” pursuing art as a business by designing logos and brochures for local businesses, individual commissions, wall murals and book illustrations. She opened her studio, ‘The Inspiration Studio: Academy of Fine Art’ in 2007, where she teaches art three days a week. She’s also a teacher’s assistant at Okotoks Serendipity Pre-Kindergarten and is a volunteer member of the Okotoks Arts Council, currently serving as Director and Facebook facilitator.

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Soft pastels are Robin’s chosen artistic medium, as “there are no tools required and the pigments never fade… I feel more connected to the work I’m doing when using pastels because I get to work with my hands.” Derek Besant, an ACAD drawing instructor is one person Robin credits with having had a lasting artistic impact on her, as his first words to her class were, “I am not better than you, just older. I hope to become your equal and I’m here to offer and share my experience.” Robin’s passion for art comes from working with children, because, “they have a never-ending source of inquisitiveness which keeps me engaged and inspired to create. Teaching is what led me to begin working with sculpture two years ago, because it helps me work without fear and teaches me patience.” Robin’s work is available at the following locations: in Okotoks at The Rabbit Hole Gallery, and I’ve Been Framed and on her website: www.robinlisathibodeau.com. As well as on Facebook at: The Inspiration Studio Okotoks. Janifer Calvez “I really appreciate the creative process and I enjoy the journey of discovery,” says artist Janifer Calvez, 43, of her art and creative life. Born and raised in Pincher Creek, Janifer attended SAIT to become a Lab Technician. Following graduation, she worked at the Calgary Foothills Hospital and in the Med Lab at the High River Hospital. In 2000, she moved to Okotoks with her family, the same year she became a volunteer member of the Okotoks Arts Council. She currently works as a Lab Technician instructor at SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) since 2006. “Being a lab technician equals perfection, while art allows me to break outside given parameters,” says Janifer

culture

“

I like to encourage people to remember and discover the uplifting energy that a walk in nature can bring.” when asked how she came to be an artist. “Art gives me the freedom to create my own rules whereas working in a lab does not.” After attending several Arts Council meetings in Okotoks, she found that the “enthusiasm for my art was so supportive that they encouraged me to do shows, become a council member and participate in Okotoks’ first Art Walk.” Of her work, Janifer says that, “I like to encourage people to remember and discover the uplifting energy that a walk in nature can bring.” Janifer’s passion for creating art came when she fell in love with watercolour because it’s “translucent and transparent and you can use a lot of pigment.” In recent years, Janifer began working with acrylics because, “I wanted to experiment and use texture in my work and in acrylic, texture can be achieved simply by using bolder strokes.” Janifer’s work is available in Okotoks at the Okotoks Art Gallery and On a Lark, plus on her website: www.janifercalvez.com Shirley Paradis “I love constructing things with metal and figuring out a way to make it work,” says artist Shirley Paradis, 73, of using metal as her chosen medium. Born in High River, Shirley graduated from ACAD in 1963 and spent a year in Banff apprenticing with Robert Aldritch, both for the experience and the skiing, she adds with a smile. She then taught arts and crafts with Red Cross University Hospital, and worked as an Instructional Lab Assistant teaching sculpture, clay and jewellery design in the Art Education Department at the University of Alberta. After marriage, she moved to Turkey where she began teaching art. Back in Canada, she started selling her work at craft markets, built a commercial silversmithing build-

ing, and taught art on cruise ships and at art markets. In 1997, while raising her granddaughter, Shirley began teaching silversmithing and clay sculpture, Magic Art to 3-5 year olds and ran the Summer Art Camps through the Okotoks Continuing Education program. Shirley credits Marion and Jim Nicholl, predominant Alberta artists, as having the most influence on her art. Shirley’s most memorable artistic experience was when she won a scholarship from ACAD for Best Design in Show for Weaving and Silversmithing, followed by being accepted into the Western Showcase at the Calgary Stampede where she sold three of four of her chosen pieces. In 2005, Shirley “tried to retire, but got bored.” She returned to teaching art part-time and continued working with copper, stained glass and recycled electronics to create jewellery and sculpture. Today, Shirley continues creating art using recycled material because, “recycled items inspire my creativity with their potential.” Shirley remains a member of the Okotoks Arts Council and can nearly always be found at the Gallery working in the studio. “I’m going to be at the [Okotoks] Gallery in spirit until the end of eternity.” Shirley’s work can be purchased at the Okotoks Art Gallery, The Rabbit Hole Gallery and in the art market during Okotoks Summer Saturdays events.

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culture

Cheryl Taylor “Rage Against Beige,” is a phrase artist Cheryl Taylor, 43, coined roughly nine years ago, in response to discovering that most art in small town Alberta was sorely lacking in colour and predominantly “western” in nature. Growing up as part of a military family, Cheryl and her family moved roughly every three years until she chose to make Okotoks home in 2000. A graduate of Queen’s University in 1996, majoring in English Literature and minoring in Art History, she first sold her work at the Millarville Market in 2002. Cheryl runs a landscaping business, teaches art part-time to grades one through 12, is a substitute teacher two days per week and is the curator of The Rabbit Hole Gallery. She began creating art using acrylics but has since moved into mixed media. Since “landscaping is my life, I consider it my canvas.” In recent years, she began pursuing her interest in freelance writing and photography. Emily Carr was a big interest to Cheryl for her use of colour, and Caspar David Friedrich for his work in landscapes. Cheryl’s inspiration comes from a “fascination with falling water, light through trees and looking at and observing the world from a different perspective.” Her most memorable artistic experience was receiving a Commander’s Commendation award

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Cheryl opened The Rabbit Hole Gallery because she wanted to “incorporate new and upcoming artists and to have more variety and outlets for local artists” to display and showcase their work. for a Remembrance Day poster she drew at the age of seven. In March of 2014, Cheryl opened The Rabbit Hole Gallery because she wanted to “incorporate new and upcoming artists and to have more variety and outlets for local artists” to display and showcase their work. Cheryl’s work is available through The Rabbit Hole gallery, Rage Against Beige at the SAIT campus and at her website: www.outoftheblueart.com OL

people

ICE DREAMS Talking hockey with the Mayor STORY BY JIM ZANG PHOTOS BY DON MOLYNEAUX

“I

’M A LEFT WINGER,” says Okotoks Mayor Bill Robertson, stopping to think about it and then laughing. “At least in hockey.” It’s a fact a lot of people probably didn’t know about the man affectionately known as ‘Mayor Bill’. As a politician at any level, your life’s an open book, an irony not lost on the former elementary school teacher and staunch supporter of public education. Having lived in Okotoks for 36 years — he was born and raised in Calgary — 33 of them as a teacher here, it seems everyone knows Mayor Bill; many of them dropping by to say ‘Hi’ during the course of an interview at the Rec Centre. Some know him as the Mayor. Some are former students. Some are co-workers from the town office or local business people. Some of them know he’s married to Elaine and has three grown boys: Michael, Jeffrey and Bradley. That he’s got three grandchildren (Mason, Jace and Brady) and a dog named Shady. You can get all that off the official Town of Okotoks website. But did you know that Shady’s a seven-year-old Border Collie cross? Or that another grandchild is on the way this fall? (Maybe by the time you read this.) Did you know he has a place in the Shuswap and has a trip to Africa scheduled for next year and Machu Pichu on his bucket list, post-retirement? He’s an avid philatelist (stamp collector), who rides a hog. A 2008 Yamaha 1100 VStar touring bike, to be exact. His first car was a 1961 Envoy, but now he drives a 2010 Toyota Tacoma. He’s worked since grade six, starting out delivering a weekly newspaper.

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people

He’s on the Board of Directors for Kidsport and the Calgary Regional Partnership. He doesn’t use social media extensively: “I’m on there,” he says, “but I don’t tweet every day or anything like that.” He does like walking, cycling, and reading; and, just in case you didn’t know, he loves hockey. “I actually played in that old arena,” he says, referring to the photo of the old Okotoks Arena which hangs on the wall at the Rec Centre. Okotoks Living sat down with the Mayor for a very different kind of in-depth interview to find out the answers to some important questions. Nothing about politics, population growth, water supply or any of that stuff, just hockey talk. OL: I know you play ball hockey regularly, how often? MB: (More laughter) MB: We play from September through June, one or two times weekly. OL: Who do you play with? MB: It’s just a group of guys; we throw our sticks in the middle and choose sides. OL: What position are you? MB: I’m a left winger.

OL: Do you score a lot? MB: I’m okay. I’m just out there to get some exercise and have some fun. OL: Did you play ice hockey growing up? MB: I only played two years in elementary school until I started playing for the Okotoks Spoilers. I’ve played with them for the past 30 years. We even have a team bus.

OL: (Laughter) OL: Are you playing this year? MB: At least in hockey. OL: Would you say you’re good?

MB: I’m going to start playing again this year. I didn’t play last year. Hopefully I’ll be out this Friday night. Friday night is intra-squad game and Monday is an exhibition against another oldtimers team. All for fun. OL: Aside from Okotoks teams, who is your favourite team? MB: I have Okotoks Oilers and Bisons jerseys, but I’d have to say the Flames, and of course any Team Canada. OL: What do you think about fighting in hockey? MB: I disagree with pro hockey players fighting because of the example it sets for children.

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people

OL: Do you think the Flames got enough for Iggy? MB: I can’t even remember who they got. OL: Me neither, so I looked it up. Ben Hanowski, Kenny Agostino and Pittsburgh’s first round pick in 2013. MB: Hmm. OL: Should NHL players go to the Olympics? MB: Yes. You’ve got to send your best, most other countries do. OL: Do you think the NHL should adopt the big Olympic ice? MB: Yes. I like the big ice, it makes for a more wide open skill game. OL: Who was your favourite player growing up? MB: Bobby Orr.

OL: What do you think of the Flames chances of making the playoffs this year? MB: They’re pretty exciting to watch. I know they’re not ranked high, but I’m an optimist. OL: How about the Okotoks Oilers? MB: I think they’ll do fairly well. They’re well-coached and lots of fun to watch. We always have a competitive team.

OL: Who’s your current favourite? MB: Hmm. It’s a tie between Crosby and Iginla. And Curtis Glencross, because he didn’t make his Bantam A team and played with his friends instead.

OL: Have you watched the new Hockey Night in Canada yet? Or seen the ref cams? MB: No, but it sounds cool.

OL: Do you think the Flames should have traded Iggy? MB: It was a business decision. I’d like to see him get a cup. Wherever he plays for, I’m cheering for. It will be tough when he plays Calgary.

OL: One last question, who’s going to win the Stanley Cup this year? MB: Chicago. If the Flames could beat Chicago tonight it would be a big morale booster. OL

(Editor’s note: The Flames did, in fact, beat Chicago 2-1 in overtime that night on the strength of a Michael Backlund overtime goal and 49 saves by Jonas Hiller.)

It’s a fact a lot of people probably didn’t know about the man affectionately known as ‘Mayor Bill’. W I NTE R 20 1 4 O KOTO KS LIVI N G 19

entertainment

TGIF 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

10 things to do in Okotoks on a Friday night

Depending on the season, check the schedule and see if the Oilers or Dawgs are playing. Pop into the Royal Duke or The George for a pint, it’s good for what ales ya!

Take your pent-up weekly frustrations out on the bowling pins at Millennium Lanes. Enjoy the latest flick at Okotoks Cinemas.

Get a group of friends together, rent a sheet of ice and go curling.

Attend a classic movie presentation, play or musical performance at Rotary Performing Arts Centre.

Take the plunge at the Aquatic Centre from 8-11 p.m., teens ages 12 to 17 welcome and cost is $2. Paint it Up Pottery offers fun for all ages and makes a great first date. 403-938-1100

Groove to the sounds of the DJ at the Bullpen Pub.

Drive out to the Big Rock to watch the sun set, make sure to take a selfie. OL

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Eating to win Athletes need to pay special attention to diet STORY BY DAVE SHEPHERD | PHOTOS BY ALLISON SETO

Jady Griffin 2 2 O KOTO KS LIVI N G W I NTE R 20 1 4

sports

HE STUDENTS AT Holy Trinity Academy can’t get enough seaweed. Florence Christophers places more SeaSnax into her vending machine, laughing as she tells the story. “When I put SeaSnax in the machine, the principal made a funny face. But the very first thing to sell was the SeaSnax. Kids these days are very open minded about healthy snacks.” While a teenage boy can devour a large pizza in a single sitting, eating that pizza does them a disservice. “When they’re young, children are forming their food imprint — the foods that feel right to them,” says Christophers. “We’re forming the biochemical foundation of their entire body — their bones, organs, brains, everything being formed on the quality of nutrition in their diet.” For young athletes, eating a burger before a big game can completely negate the hard work they’ve done to get to that point. Christophers explains. “There’s a powerful connection between what we eat and how we think, how we perform, how we feel.” While Christophers’ vending machines are there for young athletes on the go, once they get a little older they turn somewhere else. Enter Jady Griffin, manager of Motion Fitness. The gym sits at the heart of Okotoks, and on an early Saturday morning, it’s filled by fitness enthusiasts, including Griffin. She grabs the chin up bar, performs a handful with relative ease, then softly lands on the floor. While a life-long love of exercise and sports has undoubtedly contributed to her strength, she’ll be the first to tell you nutrition is the difference maker. “I’m obsessed with learning how food affects our body, mind, mood, and energy. I read endless nutrition books and attend nutrition workshops. My favourite thing to do in the evening is watch TED talks or watch documentaries on food.” Griffin attended SAIT and specialized in nutrition. She’s competed in Spartan Races and ultramarathons. For her, nutrition is the difference between reaching the finish line or tapping out halfway through. “Nutrition is the catalyst that will make a good athlete great. Food fuels every work out, it gives you the opportunity for proper repair, and creates the components to build and improve on your current state.” So what’s the difference between eating a pizza or a chicken breast? “Even if you do not compete at a professional level, proper nutrition is the difference between whether you are going to make it through an entire game or if you are going to have to sit on the side lines.” Proper nutrition will do more for you than just keep you in the game. Even after the pads are put away, your diet will determine whether you can get out of bed without wincing the next morning. “The way you eat is going to decide how sore you are the next day and how long it will take for your muscles to recover,” says Griffin. “Nutrition is your energy going into the game, your endurance throughout, and your recovery after.”

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JADY’S FAVOURITES BEST CARB CHOICES Quinoa Millet Amaranth Wild/Brown Rice Sweet Potatoes Oatmeal

BEST PROTEIN CHOICES Quinoa Hemp Seeds Chia Seeds Spirulina Organic Meats Eggs

BEST FAT CHOICES Avocados Coconut Oil Almonds Walnuts Pumpkin Seeds

BEST ANTIOXIDANT/ VITAMIN CHOICES Dark Green Vegetables Berries Sprouts Onions Garlic Tumeric Cinnamon Bee Pollen Acai Berries

Nutrition is the catalyst that will make a good athlete great. Food fuels every work out, it gives you the opportunity for proper repair, and creates the components to build and improve on your current state.” W I NTE R 20 1 4 O KOTO KS LIVI N G 2 3

sports

For athletes, good health starts at the grocery store. Griffin recommends you plan your meals in advance and stick to the outside aisles. “Shop for fruits and vegetables in season and if possible, locally grown.” Anything in particular to look for? “Oatmeal, avocado, coconut oil, quinoa, organic meats, eggs. Avoid processed foods.” Prior to any sort of event, athletes need to eat the proper nutrients to ensure they don’t fade late in the game. This starts the night before — Griffin advises athletes to eat whole foods and avoid anything processed. Surprising no one, alcohol is also a bad choice. The morning of the big game, Griffin has her own preferences. “Carbs and fat are typically what you want to be going for. This will give you longer lasting energy for the event. A great meal would be a combination of salmon, rice, and green vegetables. But athletes need to experiment to find what works best for them.” After the game, elite athletes — particularly those competing in sports that demand you play on back to back nights, like hockey — refocus on nutrition. “Protein is essential for repair and muscle growth,” says Griffin. “A quick protein shake, quick carbs to recover your energy — I’ll often have a glass of fresh orange juice and water with a pinch of Himalayan salt.” Athletes should modify their diet during the off-season — but the change itself varies depending on the sport. For example, long distance runners should reduce the amount of carbs they’re eating as well as their overall intake because they’re not running excessive miles. On the opposite side of the gym, a body builder usually increases calories to put on more muscle. And, yes, you can still have the occasional pizza or burger, just don’t over-do it. OL

Florence Cristophers

TODAYS YOUTH OPEN TO HEALTHY SNACKS

What has four legs and if you feed it lays hard boiled eggs?

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One of Florence Christopher’s vending machines. Have you ever seen hard-boiled eggs in a vending machine? What about seaweed? Fresh fruits and vegetables? If you have, you were probably looking at one of Florence Christophers’ vending machines, located in Alberta Dance Academy, Mountain Shadows, and Holy Trinity Academy. Each machine is handled by an individual vendor. Christophers admits that she was reluctant to get involved at first. “At first I said no. But the conversation with the vending company planted the seed. I thought if I’m going to be the change in my community, why don’t I just get a few machines.” Christophers vets the products herself — looking not just at the calorie count, but the ingredients used. She offers 100 per cent natural jerky from Hirsche Fraser Meats, fresh fruits and vegetables from Sobeys, and a variety of other nutritious snacks. The ultimate goal? “I want my machines to look like the store food shelves of a health food store. Anyone, no matter what their food preferences or food sensitivities, will be able to find a snack on the run, thanks my machines.”

feature

Community visioning A people-friendly way of planning for the future STORY AND PHOTOS BY PEG AINSLEY

S Dawn Smith, Sustainability Coordinator, Town of Okotoks, does the lion’s share of organizing venues, moving the kiosks around town, and overseeing the Visioning process.

HARE YOUR IDEAS. Shape your community. That, in a nutshell, is what the Okotoks Community Visioning project is all about. The town’s overall growth strategy has changed from a finite growth (capped) model to a continued growth model. This has made looking into the future an important process. One that the Town wants people’s input on. “We want to be as inclusive as possible,” says Mayor Bill Robertson, “and hear what is desirable from all demographic groups; every age, gender, socio-economic status, community groups, etc. The best possible outcome would be an overall healthy community — a satisfied community.” To make it easy for residents to express their opinions about a 2064 Okotoks, the town hired ’02’ — a Calgary-based community planning and design firm. “We are here to listen to a wide range of people in Okotoks,” says Veronique Pelletier, the lead ’02’ facilitator on the project. The process begins by gathering comments, ideas and information from as many residents as possible, she says. The

idea is to hear from a variety of demographics and interests in town. All generations are to be represented, town staff and council as well as council committees, and residents gathered at sports events and recreation centres, in grocery stores and at school. The Town themselves got the ball rolling by bringing in a couple of experts to talk about planned growth. The insights those speakers presented gave people much of the foundation needed to move forward with discussions about what Okotoks should look like in the future. First was Roger Brooks, a community expert with a focus on retail and revitalization. Brooks delivered his honest and informed opinion “through the eyes of a visitor”, bringing some hard truths to light about things like signage, store hours and ‘streetscaping’. The second was Glen Hiemstra of futurist.com, who challenged those present to think with imagination about the future. Visions of solar roadways, urban villages, and a no-vehicle city were considered. “The future is something we do — not something that just happens to us,” Hiemstra says. He also reminded people of something Lewis Carroll said through the character of the Cheshire Cat in Alice In Wonderland: “If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll end up someplace else.” So, where is Okotoks going? Three questions have been answered in Phase 1 of the three-phase plan through public kiosks, various group visits, workshops and online. These are: 1. What I value most about Okotoks is _______. 2. If I could, I would change ___________. 3. What I want most for the future is __________.

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feature

A compilation of the information collected was presented at the Okotoks Art Gallery in an ‘Imagine the Future’ drop-in event. There guests watched video comments, made notes on the summary displays, and reviewed the maps that a great many residents created with their own drawings, notes and pictures representing every part of community life. In the next step, a set of kiosks will again be around town awaiting your comments, concerns, or confirmations, but on different topics. The result of Phase 2 will be a confirmed set of community values and foundational principles. In Phase 3, the consulting team will develop a draft vision and guiding principles for community review. There will be an Open House on November 27, as well as online information for everyone’s review and comments. In December or early January the 50-year vision will be presented to Town Council. “This is the most extensive consultation process the town has done,” says Shane Olson, Okotoks’ Economic Development Manager. “We’re excited to see the outcome.” OL

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“

We want to be as inclusive as possible and hear what is desirable from all demographic groups… The best possible outcome would be an overall healthy community — a satisfied community.”

business

Stars shine at Service Excellence Awards Red carpets rolled out for Chamber of Commerce’s first-class event STORY BY JIM ZANG | PHOTOS BY DON MOLYNEAUX

here’s been a lot of changes at the Okotoks Chamber of Commerce this year, and that’s turned out to be a pretty good thing. A new president in Amber Chapman. A new GM in Cheryl Actemichuk, soon to be re-titled CEO in accordance with most other Chambers in the country. Even a new venue for the annual golf tournament, Crystal Ridge. One thing that hasn’t changed, however, is the annual Service Excellence Awards. The venue may have changed, or the emcee (Del Paquette stepping in for John Barlow), or the number of awards handed out, but never the importance of the event, or the smiles on deserving winners’ faces. This year’s edition was a high-end, red carpet affair held at the new Best Western Plus — their first major banquet event. From the moment members of the dressed-tothe-nine’s crowd of 140 nominees, guests and various dignitaries arrived, lining up to have their photo taken on the red carpet, it was first class all the way. Guests were treated to a delicious three-cource meal prepepared by Great Events Catering, featuring a leaf lettuce salad garnished with goat cheese pecans and mango vinaigrette dressing; a main course of Angus beef sirloin, half a chicken breast, carrots, asparagus, red pepper and skewered roasted baby potatoes. Desert was a red velvet mudpie timbale served on raspberry coulis with rich chocolate paté over pecan brownie and fresh berries. And, yes, it all tasted as good as it looked! Okotoks Living magazine was well-represented, with associate publisher/editor Jim Zang, who presented the New Business of the Year award, and his wife Karla; art director Jean Rodriguez and her husband Pepper; advertising representative Cindy Marks, and photographer Don Molyneaux — the official red carpet photographer — all in attendance. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees, and the Chamber for a job well done! OL

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COBS BREAD Kelly and Lee Hodgins

New Business of the Year

BIG DIPPER Franziska and Cliff Wessely

Home Based Business of the year

business

NATURAL HIGH FITNESS Sheri and Andrew Guftason

Business of the Year

Tamara Boivin

Strengthening Our Community Award

KC LANDSCAPING Crawford Thorne

Envrionmentally Responsible Business of the Year

COMMUNITY FUTURES HIGHWOOD Julie Lockhart on behalf of her dad, John

Small Business of the Year

CANINE AQUAFITNESS Louise Bush, Office Manager

Customer Service Excellence Award

OKOTOKS OILERS President Wayne Lauinger, Marketing Manager Brenden Anderson

Not For Profit of the Year

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sustainability

Giggle your way to green Eco-Tips makes being environmentally-friendly fun

HESE DAYS, EVERYBODY’S looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact. Every once in a while, though, some of us need a little friendly prodding. That’s where Eco-Tips comes in. With the help of some adorable, quirky characters — including wanna-be rock stars, French chefs, and mad scientists — an Okotoks-based media company, QuickClick Productions (QCP), has come up with weekly online Eco-Tips as a fun way to encourage everyone to “go green.” Sheelagh Matthews, one of the driving forces behind the project, says the animations were first conceptualized as “a series of easy household tips for consumers to help save energy, water, and the planet.” Matthews and her local creative team, lead by former Okotokian David Pym, worked for months on the series of short animations delivered by a cheerful cast of, in Matthews’ words, “cheeky, quirky, and cute cartoon characters. “It’s been a fun ride,” she says. “We hope that the environmental messages our crazy characters bring to life make a difference.” To view four sample Eco-Tips visit the website and select Eco-Tips from the drop-down menu. www.quickclickproductions.com/products OL

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sustainability

BATTERY POW STORY BY AMANDA BROW N | PHOTOS BY DON MOLYNEAUX

“R

ANGE ANXIETY” IS something most of us will probably never experience. If you have a gas-powered car, you’ll be wondering what on earth that is. Electric vehicle (EV) owners, on the other hand, know all about it. It’s the angst that arises from not knowing where on the road the next EV charging station is. The issue is fast becoming a thing of the past though, and it’s certainly not a worry EV drivers have to contend with in Okotoks. The town currently has four EV charging stations and is flexing its eco-muscles with plans to install more. The future is here, it’s now, and it’s electric. The Southridge Emergency Services building has two stations and EV drivers can ask at reception for access. Dawn Smith, Okotoks’ sustainability coordinator, explains that there are sound reasons why they were installed — they form part of the building’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification criteria. “One of the reasons the EV charging stations went into the Southridge Emergency Services building

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was that it was part of the LEED certification for that building — to provide alternative energy for transportation.” Smith adds, “It’s a very energy-efficient building, it’s very healthy.” Okotoks offsets all its electricity usage with wind and hydro-generated power. Smith explains, “The Town purchases, for all of its buildings and infrastructure, one hundred percent (renewable) energy credits. If you were to recharge at the Southridge Emergency Services building, that would be considered one hundred per cent renewable energy.”

sustainability

ERED

Electric car drivers get a charge out of Okotoks

Westmount school has a charging station and more are planned for town. Two are considered for the Best Western hotel says franchise owner Roanne Bodnarchuk, one of which will be a Tesla charger, two are being looked at for the old town hall site on McRae street, and also for the proposed new Town Operations Centre. Okotoks GM also has a station for customers’ use. Sun Country Highway is one of the companies that Smith says is being considered for the installation of further stations. “We are looking at doing a business case analysis on (Sun Country Highway). Potentially looking

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sustainability

Here the news gets really good; current legislation means that only electricity retailers can charge for electricity, not the host of the power supply, so everywhere you charge, other than your own home, it’s free.

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at two or three downtown on Elizabeth Street on municipal property, not only for the environmental side of it, but also as an economic driver. A lot of places are looking to do that where, in the future if EVs becomes very popular, and it sounds like they will become very popular, you have these free, well labeled, and user-friendly charging stations in your shopping downtown core. People will come, they would park, charge, and they’d shop. It would bring business to downtown” Saskatchewan-based Sun Country Highway has installed charging stations throughout the continent and also along the Trans-Canada Highway giving Canada the longest “green” highway in the world. They also launched the exciting E-Mazing Race — a point-scoring tour of the Sun Country Highway charging network between St. John, N.L. and Vancouver, B.C. The race is something the town could be interested in hosting. Smith says, “If we do put Sun Country Highway in, if they do win the RFP (request for proposals), we might participate next year.” Rob MacGregor, Sun Country Highway’s director for Western Canada, has the inside story on EV charging stations. He explains, “The actual charger is inside the car. The charging station is basically the power supply that supplies that charger, and the charger in the car converts the AC power coming from the charging station into DC. There is an inverter built into the charging system in the car that converts the current to DC — you have to use DC current to charge a battery.” The technology is inside the car; it’s only the power that you need. Here the news gets really good; current legislation means that only electricity retailers can charge for electricity, not the host of the power supply, so everywhere you charge, other than your own home, it’s free. For people like Rob MacGregor, that’s a significant saving over a gas vehicle, “It costs me $18 a month at home…as opposed to almost $400 a month for gasoline.” How far can an EV go on a full charge? It’s a frequently asked question. “It depends on the vehicle,” says MacGregor. “It ranges from a Smart Car, which will get you 90 kilometres, to a Tesla Model S which will go to 450 kilometres.” Plugshare.com, an international network mapping many of Alberta’s EV charging stations, including EV owners’ residential outlets, shows the nearest stations to Okotoks are in High River (Peavey Mart) and Calgary. About Calgary, MacGregor says, “Sun Country Highway have two there.” He adds, “We have our own (map) with our own charging network on it that shows all of Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean.” Brent King, De Winton family man and three years the proud owner of a Tesla Roadster, (photos) is also reaping the rewards of ownership. “The best part of owning an electric car is that you have a ‘gas’ station in your own home. Plug it in every night, just like you do your cell phone. When I wake up in the morning

sustainability

A I’ve got a full charge, and away I go.” Charging times are improving. At home on his 90 Amp power outlet it’s pretty fast. “From bottom to top again is about four hours,” says King. Tesla’s own Superchargers afford owners extra privileges. King states, “On the (Tesla) Model S, you can get from zero to a 600 kilometres (charge) in about half an hour.” But is King just charging his EV battery with ‘dirty’ electricity at home? Is that sustainable? The answer is yes. Like the Town of Okotoks, King is offsetting his electricity usage. He charges his EV after midnight, reducing peak time demand, and his roof solar panels generate renewable electricity that he sells back to the grid. “It’s impressive what you guys are doing here,” he says. OL

A Brent King cruises Northridge Drive in his Tesla roadster. B Sun Country Highway charging station in Toronto. C Rob MacGregor, of Sun Country Highway with Tesla Model S.

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business

One of a kind

SNAPS offers unique services for special needs families

BY DARLENE CASTEN

“T

HERE ISN’T ANYONE like us,” says Orvella Small, one of the SNAPS’ founding members. Over the past 16 years SNAPS, the Foothills Special Needs Association for Parents and Siblings, has grown into one of the only organizations supporting those with special needs in Alberta’s outlying communities. Nearly two decades ago, SNAPS started out as a group of parents with special needs children who would meet up in their living rooms to discuss their challenges and support one another. Now, it’s so much more than that. Over the past six years SNAPS has successfully applied for grants that have allowed them to expand their services, Small explains. “We are not governed by age or diagnosis,” says Small, “so we can offer the whole gamut.” SNAPS’ evolution from living rooms to their own office in High River and part-time offices in Nanton and Okotoks has been nothing short of amazing, says Small. Six years ago, she says, SNAPS was serving 67 families, and today they are assisting 520 families, or about 1,300 people. Since their inception one of SNAPS core services has been to offer one-on-one support for families, both parents and siblings, with special needs children or even adults. “Whether it is education or health we will support them through that,” she says. With the increase of funding, SNAPS has added programs such as respite services, which include supports like speech or behavioural assistants, a workshop for the siblings of special needs children and a transition action planning program, which helps teens plan out their future as they reach adulthood. Last January SNAPS began a program called H.I.R.E. that works with adults 18-years-old and older to find employment, providing personal and professional coaching, resume writing and interview technique classes. H.I.R.E. project coordinator Alise Kuipers says they have assisted 29 people so far to create an action plan for employment and have seen many of their graduates land a job.

Orvella Small, executive director of the Foothills Special Needs Association for Parents and Siblings (SNAPS) with her daughter Sheena, owner of Sheena’s Sweets n’ Stuff in High River.

They also work with employers to create inclusive workplaces for those with special needs. “We need to make employers aware that its not scary to employ someone who has higher needs or barriers to employment,” Kuipers says. “Just give it a try.” Small says SNAPS offers families more than just information, assistance and jobs, it offers them relief as they navigate through expected and unexpected challenges. “Many times families are struggling because they don’t know where to go or what to do,” she says. “It is so much easier on families when SNAPS is there to assist them.” To see what SNAPS is all about visit their website at www.foothillssnaps.org. OL

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community

Winter walk Your body, and community, thanks you BY SUZANNE HALE

T’S ONE THING to talk the talk, and quite another to walk the walk. That’s what organizers are hoping Okotokians will do in the annual Okotoks Winter Walk, February 4th, 2015. From 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Shape Alberta is encouraging each and every Okotoks resident to get up and walk a mile, by participating in this Town of Okotoks organized promotion of a healthy community. “The purpose of Winter Walk Day is to get people to take part in physical activity … winter is a time when people don’t get active,” says Mark Doherty, Okotoks’ Community Events Coordinator. If you’re not one for a brisk walk outdoors at this time of year, Mark notes there are alternatives. “Okotoks is so fortunate to have outstanding, free to

use indoor tracks,” he says, which includes tracks at both the Pason Centennial Arena and the Scott Seaman Sports Rink at Heritage Heights. Also, while the walking track at the Legacy Regional Fieldhouse is usually user-pay, it will be free on the day of the Winter Walk. Whether you choose to walk indoors or out, be sure to register online at www.shapeab.com to track your minutes walked, which will be counted towards Okotoks’ total hours walked. These minutes tracked will be compared against other Alberta communities, one of which will win bragging rights as Alberta’s healthiest community. In addition to this distinction, all registered participants will have a chance to win prizes from the local businesses which sponsor this great event. So on February 4th, Okotoks residents, take off the fuzzy slippers and dust off your Nikes — your body, and community, will thank you. OL

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homes

NOW AND ZEN Avalon Master Builders brings ZEN to Okotoks BY PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

EOPLE JUST CAN’T seem to get enough ZEN, and Avalon Master Builders is happy enough to oblige, as the renowned developer brings their distinguished line of energy-efficient and sustainable townhomes to Okotoks. The 37-unit townhome complex is in the pre-construction stage but will be located in Okotok’s Westridge community. According to Avalon’s Dean Clark, this is the last multi-family site currently approved for the town. “The opportunity presented itself, and we jumped on it,” Clark tells Condo Living. “We feel our building practices and core values align with the community values in Okotoks. We are very concerned about building efficient sustainable homes.” ‘Green’ home building has, in fact, been a focus at Avalon Master Built, and all their homes meet high, externallyestablished standards in energy efficiency, water conservation and sustainable building practices. Each home is tested and audited by an independent third party to ensure those standards

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We feel our building practices and core values align with the community values in Okotoks.” W I NTE R 20 1 4 O KOTO KS LIVI N G 4 1

homes

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The key to our ZEN townhomes has been their locations, and we believe our site here in okotoks is one of the best.”

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are met or exceeded. Their homes are, in fact, guaranteed to lower utility costs by 36 per cent. “Our homes’ energy efficiency is what we’re known for,” Clark says. “We build our homes very tight, to keep the warm air in — very important with our winters. Then we add a high efficiency furnace, HRV system, low flow faucets, energy star rated appliances — our fridge uses less energy than a 40-watt light bulb. This all helps to keep your utility usage low and save you money,” he says. Avalon is part of the Holmes Approved Homes by celebrity home renovator Mike Holmes. They have also built 164 LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) homes, and explores the latest smart green home technology alternative through their Discovery House series, that look to bring a new generation of NetZero homes — homes that produce as much energy as they use on an annual basis. “Our vision going forward is to build 100 per cent of our homes as Net-Zero homes for no additional cost to the consumer while creating homes people love to live in.”

homes

All these vital factors come into play in ZEN Okotoks, which is seen as the result of everything Avalon has learned in the past 30 years — and then some. “The key to our ZEN townhomes has been their locations, and we believe our site here in Okotoks is one of the best,” Clark says. The homes range in size from 1,017 to 1,270 square-feet and are projected to start from the $280,000 range, Clark says. “We’ve chosen our popular floor plans from ZEN in Auburn Bay. There will be a mix of our single level garden homes, two storey townhomes and our split-level lane homes. As with all our communities all our homes feature a private outdoor space, low maintenance exteriors featuring hardie board siding, as well as our energy efficiency all our homeowners love.” ZEN in Okotoks will feature Prairie elevations. This means a lower roofline with a broader overhang, more horizontal lines and windows grouped together in horizontal bands. “The lines in this style are thought to emulate the prairie landscape,” Clark says.

Their location in the town of Okotoks itself is an outstanding part of their appeal. “The community is conveniently located within walking distance of pretty much everything you need — grocery, restaurants, coffee shops and parks. It’s also only a short drive, less than 20 minutes to the South Health Campus and SETON.” Clark believes Westridge is perfect for families as well as first time homebuyers. “We feel that a lot of families are well established in the community and most first time homebuyers appreciate having an affordable option keeping them close to their family in their preferred community.” First possession for ZEN Okotoks is anticipated for the spring of 2015. Visit their website www.zeninbalance.com to register. OL

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| ADVERTISING FEATURE |

MOTION FITNESS Passion for healthy living shines through

he staff at Motion Fitness treated Jady Griffin like family – even before they learned she was their new manager. “I spent a week working out at Motion Fitness before anyone knew who I was,” says Griffin. “I wanted to get a feel for the people and the space. After my week I fell in love with the staff and members.” The gym is breathtaking: a cascading waterfall, huge windows for sunshine, and a sense of openness you can’t find elsewhere. But Griffin knows a beautiful appearance isn’t enough, which is why she works to recruit the best staff possible. “We’re always looking for people with a profound passion for health and fitness and an outstanding dedication to customer service. We want to keep a family atmosphere alive.” Motion Fitness’s family consists of roughly 25 employees, including a team of personal trainers. Each trainer comes from a different background and focuses on different areas of physical fitness. It doesn’t matter if you’re trying to rehab an injury, lose weight, prepare for hockey season, or start bodybuilding, Motion Fitness has a trainer for you. If you don’t need personal attention, Motion Fitness offers a variety of group classes to suit your needs. Kick boxing, TRX, yoga, spin classes — Motion Fitness’s amazing instructors make standard classes exceptional. One highlight for soon to be newlyweds? Bridal BootCamp — a six week program designed to help your wedding party get fit before the big day. As for Griffin? “If I had to pick a favorite, it would be our Buti yoga class, which is a combination of yoga, plyometrics, and tribal dance. This class not only pushes my physical boundaries, but I also leave every class with a feeling of empowerment.” The gym itself is larger than you’d expect, and features a fitness studio, hot yoga room, spin studio, women’s only gym, tanning beds, steam room, and a juice bar. If you have young ones toddling at your ankles, Motion Fitness provides all day daycare hours.

Motion Fitness team

For Griffin and the rest of the Motion Fitness family, it’s not just about healthy living, it’s about community too. “We support the community in any way we can. We’ve raised money for a member that needed a new prosthetic leg, we’ve collected bras for Bras for a Cause, we sponsor the Okotoks Oilers and run dry land training for other hockey teams. On a more personal level, ever year one of our trainers, Maggie, participates in the Ride to Conquer Cancer, so we host a four hour Ride-a-Thon to raise money for her. She’s so committed that this year she instructed the Ride-a-Thon in a cast with a broken foot!” Motion Fitness offers a variety of memberships including no-contract options. Membership provides you with access to the full facility, group exercise classes, towel service, daily use of lockers, the steam room, and best of all – hot yoga classes. If you’re curious about everything Motion Fitness has to offer, come down for a free one-day trial and test it out for yourself. n

, It doesn t , matter if you re trying to rehab an injury, lose weight, prepare for hockey, season, or start bodybuilding, Motion Fitness has a trainer for you.

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| ADVERTISING FEATURE |

Okotoks Chevrolet Buick GMC

hen the Kaizen Automotive Group took over Okotoks Chevrolet Buick GMC in September 2012, it was the customers that benefited the most. “It’s given us and our customers great new opportunities,” explains General Manager Dan Katz. “We went from a standalone dealership that maybe had 200 new cars and 100 used to choose from, to part of a larger group that has about 2,000 available new cars and 800 used. With that kind of selection, there’s no way we won’t have a vehicle that will work for our customer.” The proof, as they say, is in the pudding, as the dealership recently broke the record for the number of vehicles delivered. With record sales numbers, it’s no surprise they also offer the largest supply of parts on hand in Alberta. But Katz knows that Okotoks Chevrolet Buick GMC could never have broken the record without the real people responsible: their customers. The relationships Katz and his team have built are the foundation for the dealership, and Katz never makes a decision without thinking about how it will impact those relationships. Consider the Drop and Go service. “A customer can come in, drop their vehicle off, take one of ours and go,” Katz says. “That’s all included in our service at no extra charge. All we ask is that people call ahead and reserve a vehicle.”

Superior selection, service, sets dealership apart from the rest

While the dealership offers different vehicles to fit their customers’ unique needs, Katz has his own preferences. “The new line-up is the best we have ever had in the showroom. The trucks are all completely redesigned. They are the most comfortable, capable and quiet trucks that General Motors has ever produced.” Consider the GMC Sierra or the Chevrolet Silverado. Massive interiors, an intuitive layout, and multiple USB ports gives passengers the feeling they’re in the future. The Silverado is able to tow up to 12 000 lbs and offers you your choice of EcoTec 3 engines. Meanwhile, the Sierra features a 6.0L V8 engine offering 360 horsepower. These trucks are equally capable of tumbling over rough trails, working at construction sites, or taking the kids to hockey practice. Just as the products improve, so does the dealership. Okotoks Chevrolet Buick GMC features an impressive 19 service bays, and the mechanics work quickly to get you back on the road as soon as possible. And forget about stepping outside in the middle of the freezing winter. Katz explains. “One thing we didn’t have in the old store that we have in this one is a heated and air conditioned drive through so our customers can bring their vehicle right in.” Whether you need a new or used vehicle, Okotoks Chevrolet Buick GMC has you covered. Check out the website at www.okotoksgm.com to see the current line up or to schedule a service appointment. n

“We went from a standalone dealership that maybe had 200 new cars and 100 used to chose from, to part of a larger group that has about 2,000 available new cars and 800 used.”

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events

what’s happening Compiled by Estelle Park

november

– DECEMBER 20. Visit the Spirit of Christmas Market at the Okotoks Art Gallery for your holiday gift shopping. The market features local artisan wares from our talented Okotoks artists, and showcases one-of-a-kind holiday ornaments, jewelry, cards and original artwork.

– DECEMBER 20. Okotoks Museum and Archives will feature ‘Christmas Traditions,’ an exhibit celebrating holiday traditions and exploring the history behind them. Museum hours: Tue – Sat, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.. Free of charge.

december

ECEMBER – MARCH Crystal Ridge Nordic Ski Club reminds all interested skiers to check first at www.okotoksxc.wordpress.com for information on trail access and hours.

See Altius Brass, a holiday brass concert @ Rotary Performing Arts Centre. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance at www.okotoksculture.ca, $20 at the door. Children under 12: $5.

Calgary Philharmonic Duos will perform @ RPAC. Doors open at 2 p.m., show starts at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Children under 12: $5. Purchase online at www. okotoksculture.ca.

Watch Nils Ling tell stories and perform music at the performance ‘Truth About Christmas’ @ RPAC. Doors open 7 p.m., show starts 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance at www.okotoksculture.ca, $20 at the door. Children under 12: $5.

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Santa Claus will be coming to town early at the Okotoks Recreation Centre Piper Arena with the annual ‘Skate with Santa’. Hot chocolate and a fundraiser BBQ add to the holiday fun. The event will be held from 2:15 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Free of charge.

The Big Rock Singers will perform ‘Hallelujah’ a gospel Christmas celebration, at Foothills Centennial Centre at 6:30 p.m. Look forward to a bake sale and holiday café as well. Doors open 30 minutes prior. Tickets are $30, available for purchase at Okotoks Safeway and Sobeys.

– 14, 19 – 21 Goodger Pink Productions presents: Sleeping Beauty – A Pocket Pantomime @ RPAC. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children. Purchase online @ www.okotoksculture.ca. Sneak Peek: December 13 – 2 p.m. Regular Show Times: December 13 – 7 p.m.; December 14 – 2 p.m.;

December 19 – 7 p.m.; December 20 – 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; December 21 – 2 p.m.

12-18

Alberta High School of Fine Arts presents ‘Annie,’ the musical. Come view this classic musical at the FCHS/AHSFA theatre (229 Woodhaven Drive). Tickets are $20. Call 403-540-6574 or email musicaltheatretickets@hotmail.com to get tickets. Show Dates/Times: December 12 – 7 p.m.; December 13 – 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; December 17 – 7 p.m.; December 18 – 7 p.m.

Come to the Okotoks Recreation Centre from 12 – 4 p.m. for a fun New Year’s Celebration. There will be many exciting activities and games for the whole family. Stop by Lineham Park afterwards for a fireworks display. The event is free of charge.

events

For information on Town of Okotoks events contact: Mark Doherty, Community Events Co-ordinator 403-938-8950 or mdohertyatokotoks.ca or visit www.okotoks.ca

january 2015

The Okotoks Art Gallery will feature the new exhibits ‘Low Hanging Fruit’ and ‘Light horse Tales of an Afghan War.’ Come out to the opening reception 7 – 9 p.m. Free of charge.

The ‘Old Fashioned Outdoor Skating Party’ will take place on the outdoor rink outside of the Okotoks Recreation Centre. 1 – 3 p.m. Free admission.

– 17, 22 – 24, 29 – 31 Dewdney Players presents ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof’ @ RPAC. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. General admission is $20. Seniors/students can purchase tickets for $15.

february 2015

Comedian Erica Sigurdson with opening act Ivan Decker will be performing at RPAC at 7:00 pm. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance at www.okotoksculture.ca, $20 at the door.

‘The Sama Kutra,’ an offbeat comedy about two clowns trying to save their unhappy marriage, will be performed at RPAC. Show starts at 7 p.m., doors open at 6:30. Tickets are $10.

– 7 Girls’ Night Out with the production ‘The Sama Kutra’ at RPAC. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20. Limited to 100 ladies/night.

Discover the spring programs and activities offered here in Okotoks at the Spring Parade of Programs. Local businesses and organizations will be at the Recreation Centre from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to showcase the programs that Okotoks provides. Free of charge.

Family Day at the Okotoks Recreation Centre, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Many fun activities offered for the whole family. Admission by donation.

Jayme Stone’s Lomax Project, a group of folk musicians celebrating the work of Alan Lomax, will be performed at RPAC. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Purchase in advance at www.okotoksculture.ca.

and 27 Comedy club ‘Yuk Yuk’s’ is on tour at RPAC. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door.

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you said it

What’s on your Christmas wish list?

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I want the Galaxy Squad hive crawler LEGO. Dylan, age 8

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BY TRISTEN HEATHERINGTON

A new tablet and maybe some socks! Christopher L., resident

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I would like some new transformers for Christmas! Ashton, age 5

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Some new perfume and hair products are on my wish list! Jessica P., resident

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I definitely need a new winter jacket, mitts and a hat!

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Some new cooking ware would be nice. Emma Wiberg, resident

Jennifer Hogan, resident

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I would love a snowblower for Christmas. Dean Lockwood, resident

Two tickets to see Taylor Swift would be amazing. Becka Hawley, resident

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I want a vertical shoe rack because the horizontal ones take up too much space. Bailey Robertson, resident

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