Okotoks Living - Winter 2018

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contents

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WINTER 2018 | VOLUME 9 ISSUE 39

COV E R PHO T O BY M IC H E L L E S PIC E

people

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Michela Sheedy The sky’s the limit for rising star and professional country artist

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history

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The bed wetting episode Are you having a bed wetting problem?

business

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Business Excellence Awards Local business owners shine bright at the annual Chamber of Commerce gala

feature

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Season’s Greetings!

Where to go in Okotoks for all your holiday gift giving needs

community

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Baby, it’s Cold Outside BCO: connecting those who want to help with those who need it

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Family business Local owners continue to keep the tradition alive

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18 items

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Editor’s Message Town of Okotoks Message Events Maps

you said it…

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What is your favourite winter pastime?

@OkotoksLiving OkotoksLiving

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editor’s note

Winter wonderland W I N T E R S U R E H I T us fast this year; it almost completely knocked out fall!

The winter season is sure a favourite of mine, with festive warm drinks, cosy clothes and tons of snowy activities; I tend to always find the beauty in a white blanket of snow.

Okotoks seems to always thrive in the winter season as well, the annual kick off of the holiday season with Light up Okotoks on November 16th, the much anticipated MarketSquare Christmas markets and the festive outdoor decorations popping up all over town, it sure is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Be sure to check out the Christmas markets article to fulfil your holiday shopping needs.

This year I had the pleasure of attending the Business Excellence Awards with a handful of my colleagues on October 18. We all had a great time and it was wonderful to see and celebrate local business owners under one roof — a special shout out to Little Fast & Fresh who won New Business of the Year! As always Okotoks Living is the official photographer for the event, and this year we brought in new blood behind the lens — Kelly of Hermit Media manned our ever-popular photo booth. Go to our Facebook page to see all the excitement of the night.

This issue’s cover feature is rising star Michela Sheedy — I don’t want to take too much away from the article, but I promise you are going to want to read it. Born and raised in Okotoks, Michela is finding herself shooting to country stardom at the speed of light — check out her story a few pages away to learn more.

Another highlight in this issue is the feature on Baby It’s Cold Outside — and no I am not talking about the song. For those that have never heard of BCO — it is a charity run

by Pamela Morgan dedicated to the fight against homelessness right here in Okotoks and southern Alberta. The holiday season is about family and time spent with loved ones — but it is also about giving back to the community and that is exactly what BCO does — year round.

The winter issue is my first issue as editor of Okotoks Living; I searched long and hard for stories that would touch the hearts and minds of our readers. I want to stay true to the roots of this magazine and to the roots of the town itself. I hope you enjoy reading its words as much as I enjoyed putting them together.

Happy Holidays!

PUBLISHER |

Source Media Group

info@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITOR |

Brandi Holmes

brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca ART DIRECTOR |

Jean Faye Rodriguez

jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca GR APHIC DESIGNER |

Chloe Purcell

chloe.purcell@sourcemediagroup.ca GR APHIC DESIGNER |

Vivian Zhang

vivian.zhang@sourcemediagroup.ca P RODUC T ION CO - OR DI NAT OR |

Colleen Leier

colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca A D V E R T I S I N G S A L E S | Andrew Best

andrew.best@sourcemediagroup.ca A D V E R T I S I N G S A L E S | Brandi Holmes

brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca A D V E R T I S I N G S A L E S | Jennifer Mills

jennifer.mills@sourcemediagroup.ca A C C O U N T I N G | Norma Robertson

accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITORIAL

Andrew Best, Alyssa Burnham, Suzanne Hale, Allen King, Carmen Solana-Martin P HO T O G R A P H Y A N D I L LUS T R AT ION

Tom Barker, Andrew Best, Don Molyneaux, Kelly Skabar, Alexander Slobodian, Michelle Spice DISTRIBUTED BY

Media Classified, Town of Okotoks, Okotoks Welcome Wagon, Source Media Group, Yellow Pages Group PRINTED IN CANADA

© 2018 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publishers.

Okotoks Living™ is published four times per annum and is available free through select distribution points in Calgary and Okotoks.

Source Media Group 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.

Okotoks Living™ accepts editorial submissions and letters to the editor by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions, including your full name, phone number and return email address, to okotoks.editor@sourcemediagroup.ca C O N TA C T:

Source Media Group. 6109 – 6th Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2H 1L9 tel 403.532.3101 fax 403.532.3109 toll free 1.888.932.3101 www.sourcemediagroup.ca

NOTE: The Fall 2018 Okotoks Living magazine featured a photograph across the two page centre spread taken by Okotoks Western Wheel photographer Brent Calver without authorization, compensation, or photo credit. Okotoks Living was not aware that the photo had been taken by Western Wheel photographer Brent Calver but we take this infringement seriously. We apologize to Western Wheel, Matt Rockley and Brent Calver for this lack of due diligence on our part.

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mayor’s message

Message from Mayor and Town Council

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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. Don’t forget to visit the Spirit of Christmas at the Okotoks Art Gallery for unique gift options! Remember you can shop to win a shopping spree at participating downtown businesses. For more information visit www.okotoks.ca/oldetowne.

We would like to remind residents who would like to help those less fortunate during the holiday season of the several organizations providing Christmas support such as: Okotoks Food Bank, decorate the Tree of Warmth with your new scarves, gloves, mittens, toques, slippers and socks at the Okotoks Art Gallery for local charities, Salvation Army Foothills Community Ministries and more.

Please visit www.okotoks.ca/support 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 9, participate in the Christmas Light Tour starting on December 11, take part

From L to R: Brock Carlton,

CEO, Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Jenny Gerbasi, President, Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Town of Okotoks Mayor Bill Robertson, Ben Henderson, Chair, Green Municipal Fund Council, Federation of Canadian Municipalities Become a fan of Town of Okotoks Follow us on twitter: www.twitter.com/ town_of_okotoks Subscribe to our e-newsletter: okotoks.ca

in the Kid’s New Year’s Eve Party at the Recreation Centre on December 31 or join us for the Old-Fashioned Outdoor Family Skating Party on January 14. See the Town calendar of events at www.okotoks.ca/events for all event details. You can also check out some exciting Okotoks Bisons, Oilers and new Bow Mark Midget AAA hockey action! We look forward to many new clients as New Year’s resolutions guide our residents to visit the Okotoks Recreation Centre, Pason Centennial Arenas or the Crescent Point Regional Field House for some indoor exercise.

As 2018 comes to an end, we begin focusing on 2019, which we anticipate will be another busy year. I look forward to all that is coming up for Okotoks including updating the Municipal Development Plan as well as creating local transit and housing diversity strategies. These plans are designed to enhance sustainable and long-term residential, commercial and industrial growth by focusing on environmental, economic and social initiatives.

On behalf of Okotoks Council and Administration, I wish all our residents and guests a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

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

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people

Michela Sheedy The sky’s the limit for rising star and professional country artist Story by CARMEN SOLANA-MARTIN

T PHOTO BY MICHELLE SPICE P H O T O G R A P H Y.

his impressive 23-year-old Okotokian is both a full-time musician and full-time student studying Public Relations at Mount Royal University.

Michela Sheedy

With her powerhouse vocals, Sheedy has played on stage at Big Valley Jamboree, Country Thunder, and on the Coca-Cola Stage at the Calgary Stampede, and sings the national anthem for the Calgary Flames when George Canyon is absent.

She was chosen as one of 12 Alberta artists in 2018 to participate in the Wild 95.3 radio station funded Project WILD Country Artist Development Program, designed to launch the careers of emerging country and roots artists.

Finalists received a $5,000 development award, participated in a music industry boot camp, and are competing for a first place prize of $100,953.

“The boot camp was life-changing, and despite having a giant prize at the end, the main focus is to educate artists on how to be the best they can be,” says Sheedy.

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For the past two years, Sheedy has volunteered for the charity Gems for Gems’ Zero to Hero Program.

“Gems for Gems whole mission is to end the cycle of domestic abuse through empowering and educating women, because we believe in a proactive and positive approach,” says Gems for Gems Founder Jordan Guildford.

The Zero to Hero Program runs motivational and educational workshops in women’s shelters.

The workshops include a psychologist who speaks about coping mechanisms to give women confidence to navigate post-abuse, a Financial Accountant who teaches financial literacy, a motivational speaker, a self-defence instructor, and entertainers.

“It is a charity that means a lot to me because of my own personal experience with domestic violence,” says Sheedy, who concludes each Zero to Hero event

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people

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uplifting way for people to leave the event.”

Sheedy was in an abusive relationship with a man that lasted four months.

“I was manipulated and my trust was abused by him,” she says. He would apologize and I’d go back.”

“Abuse is not just physical; mental, psychological, and emotional abuse were present through the entire relationship,” she says. “When it was finally over I felt like I could breathe again.”

Sheedy is thriving due to her inner strength and support from family and friends.

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A Sheedy singing the national anthems for the Calgary Flames.

B Sheedy back stage at the Coke Stage.

Photo by Michelle Spice.

C Sheedy at Project WILD. Photo by Michelle Spice.

D Sheedy and family with Keith Urban.

E Sheedy with Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi.

Photo by Tom Barker.

PHOTO BY ALEX ANDER SLOBODIAN.

by singing and telling her story about overcoming domestic violence.

At the beginning of the workshops the women can barely make eye contact.

“I was very touched, that in such a short time, they were smiling and laughing again,” she says. “You could see the transformation in just a few hours.”

“While trying to help these women, it helped E with my healing process as well,” says Sheedy. “We create a safe and warm environment for them to feel empowered and get tools to help rebuild their lives.”

“Michela sings, and talks about her inspiration between songs to end on a lovely high note,” says Guildford. “What she contributes is beautiful, an

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people

PHOTO BY ALEX ANDER SLOBODIAN.

“It took a lot of self-reflection and taking time to process and heal myself,” she says. “You need to feel the whole spectrum of emotions, allow it to be a part of who you are, but chose to take those feelings, not dwell on the past, and allow them to propel you forward.”

“I hope that everyone who’s affected by domestic abuse, whether you are an abuser or survivor, can heal from what’s happened.”

“I have massive respect for Michela,” says Guildford.

“She is genuine, positive, and is a fighter.”

As part of Project WILD, Sheedy released a charity video, in October, featuring her debut single I Make Bad Look Good, to help spread awareness of domestic violence.

Each online share of the video will represent one dollar that she will donate to Gems for Gems.

Sheedy partnered with Calgary philanthropist Craig Senyk, who will match Sheedy’s donation, guaranteeing at least $5,000 will be donated to the charity.

The video features Sheedy’s friends, family, and fellow artists, a diverse group of people representing the things that they, themselves make look good.

“My amazing friend Sydney from right here in Okotoks will be featured and will be showing how she makes having Down syndrome unique and beautiful,” says Sheedy.

“I hope that this video brings awareness to Gems for Gems but more importantly, what they stand for,” says Sheedy.

“Beyond that, I want this video to celebrate uniqueness and remind people that they are perfect just the way they are.”

Michela’s video has given the charity major exposure, says Guildford.

“The video has had the impact that I would have hoped for almost instantly, with 16,000 views on Facebook,” she says. “In the video she’s embodied our way 12 OKOTOKS LIVING | WINTER 2018

PHOTO COURTESY TOM BARKER.

“You need to feel the whole spectrum of emotions, allow it to be a part of who you are, but chose to take those feelings, not dwell on the past, and allow them to propel you forward.”

of collaborative thinking, of together we’re stronger.”

Sheedy released her debut single I Make Bad Look Good at the end of August, staying true to herself as a writer, even though she was concerned the song was “too rock for county.”

“I feel like this song is an accurate representation of my personality and who I want to be as an artist,” she says. “I’ve always been drawn to rock and edgier music.”

The song was inspired by a negative experience in the music industry.

“You run into a lot of criticism in the industry,” says Sheedy. “Even though I just lost a lot of weight, and was the most confident I’d ever felt, I was criticised by people about my weight and what I wore.”

Sheedy now realizes that people’s opinions do not matter, and she feels confident in what she wears.

“People feel like they can take on the world when they hear the song,” she says. “They feel sexy and confident, and feel like they can squash all those things people say about them.”

Visit facebook.com/michelasheedymusic. OL

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history

The bed wetting episode Are you having a bed wetting problem?

Story by ALLEN KING

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emember the poem composed by Robert W. Service remembering the days gone by in the far north when he wrote; There are strange things done in the midnight sun... Well there were strange things done by some of the people of Okotoks over the many years.

I was the first victim of a prank “pulled off” by one Clarence Hayes in about 1965. Clarence was, I believe, the last CPR Station Agent in Okotoks. Upon his retirement the station was closed and subsequently sold to the Town Of Okotoks for $1, in 1979. He was, I must admit, a very fine gentleman, but... full of the very devil! He wasn’t averse to playing a trick on anyone and I was no exception.

The story unfolds with a advertisement, so I was told some 25 years later, in the Calgary Herald which read; Are You Having A Bed Wetting Problem?

If so please complete the form below with your name and telephone number.

We Can Help You. Clarence very obligingly completed the form with my name and home phone number and mailed if off to its destination in Calgary. Presently one evening I received a phone call and upon answering was greeted with a voice at the other end; “Sir I understand that you have a bed wetting problem.”

My reaction was, you can guess, who in the world is up to tricks! I almost laughed out loud but held my composure and playing along, stated that; “Yes I had such a problem but I underwent an operation and am now in fine fettle”. “ But”, I added “my old friend Maurice Ardiel is really in sad shape and can hardly leave the house any more unless he knows of a restroom close by” I was actively, with one hand, thumbing through the phone book to get Maurice’s home number which I gave to the chap and told him how thankful Maurice would be to hear from him. He thanked me and terminated the call.

Upon hanging up the phone which in those days was the old cradle phone, I thought to myself while laughing, damn you Ardiel, I’ll get even with you somehow.

I learned some years later the following; I can only assume that “The Chap” immediately dialed Maurice’s number and spoke to Ardiel who told him that yes he had had a problem but was given hypnosis and his difficult situation was resolved which of course was not true as he never

did have a problem. (In later years he admitted that he too wondered who was behind this).

But he hastily said to “the chap” that his old friend Herb Stephenson who had been in the Air Force during the war and had been wounded had this very problem. Maurice in turn gave the bed-wetting expert Herb’s phone number. Immediately the expert phoned Herb and greeted him with the same line; “I understand that you were in the Air Force during the war and that you now have a bed-wetting problem”. Herb promptly took exception to the phone call and angrily replied that yes he had been in the war and no he did not have a bed wetting problem nor ever did! He also stated that the chap had phoned on a party line and Herb did not appreciate such a call! (a party line was a phone line on which there could be as many as six or more subscribers and therefore there was no privacy). At this, the Bed Wetting Chap became very annoyed and exclaimed “What kind of a game is this anyway!” Herb replied that he didn’t know anything about what was going on (which was the truth) and wasn’t in any mood to discuss it.

Maurice admitted to me much later that he and Herb had discussed the prank but they never knew who was involved and never aired it in public.

It wasn’t until some twenty five years later, long after Clarence had retired to Calgary and was now deceased, that Jack Hayes (Clarence’s nephew) came into my store and greeted me with “say King did you ever resolve your bed-wetting problem?” I retorted, “It was you, you rascal who turned that Bed-wetting chap on me!” He laughed and explained that it was his Uncle Clarence who had responded to the ad with my name. Jack informed me that Clarence had told him what he had done and to keep it a secret.

I am sure that Clarence went to his grave laughing at me for never having suspected that he was the culprit. OL

Al King

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business

Business Excellence Awards

Local business owners shine bright at the annual Chamber of Commerce gala

Story by BR ANDI HOLMES Photos by KELLY SK ABAR

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his year, the Business Excellence Awards was shaken up a bit — but still took place in mid October at the Centennial Centre. The difference this year was that there was a team of six judges to determine the winners of nine awards, including a new award — Extra Large Business of the Year.

Brandi Holmes and Andrew Best

All awards were presented either by last years winners or by an esteemed member of the Okotoks community but we all couldn’t help but feel we were at the Okotoks Oscars!

With Jayme Hall at the reins, the night started off without a hitch. As over 200 attendees arrived, nominees and guests alike quickly started mingling and finding their seats.

For the second year in a row, students of Saint Vincent de Paul Youth Conference were on hand to serve an amazing three-course meal created by Crystal Creek Golf Course.

This year there were 15 students, three of which were repeats from last year’s event, accompanied by four supervisors. Okotoks Living was able to speak with Tara Epp in regards to her group of typical and special needs students. “The impact of the event on the special needs students was huge as they had a total inclusion experience working together with the other students.” It was also an eye opening experience for many of the great business

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owners of Okotoks. “A few of our repeat special needs students were recognized from the previous year. Attendees commented how they did everything the other students did. It let the students, parents and community know that these young people are more than capable of success.” There are multiple businesses throughout Okotoks that support special needs students and put them in job placements, “at least 25 plus off the top of my head,” adds Tara. The opportunity for this group to serve dinner to the top business people in Okotoks for the second year in a row is a huge accomplishment.

Okotoks Living was the official photographer for the event, with Kelly Skabar manning the photo booth, publishers Norma Robertson and Richard McQuarrie, editor Brandi Holmes, and account executives Andrew Best and Jennifer Mills — along with other special guests — were in attendance representing Okotoks Living.

Congratulations to Little Fast & Fresh, this year’s winner of the New Business of the Year award and to all the winners in all the different categories — and a big thank you to all the people behind the scene who made it all happen. For more photos of the Awards visit the Okotoks Living Facebook page. OL

business

New Business of the Year

Business of the Year (6 or less employees)

X-Large Business of the Year

Community Impact Award

Little Fast + Fresh

Shopper’s Drug Mart

Outstanding Customer Service — Individual

Western Finalcial Group Carly Hauck

Lube Town

Business of the Year (7 or more employees)

Cobs Bread

Enviro Friendly

Rebel Bean Roasters

Chem Free Cleaning

Social Profit

Home-based Business of the Year

Foothills Advocacy in Motion

Obsession Handmade Chocolates

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feature

Season’s Greetings!

Where to go in Okotoks for all your holiday gift giving needs Story and photos by BR ANDI HOLMES

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ome the holiday season, Okotoks starts to get a little more festive than usual. On November 16, the annual Light Up Okotoks kicked off the holiday season with a huge crowd of Okotokians and Calgarians alike.

Another sign that the festive season is among us is the many Christmas and holiday markets that take place throughout November and December. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… in Okotoks!

One of the most anticipated markets is the Okotoks Christmas Market put on by MarketSquare.

This year the market took place from November 9 to 11 at two locations — Foothills Centennial Centre and Elks Hall. The market is a curated event with over 175 vendors from all over Southern Alberta. The best of the best of local artisans join together to offer ultra local, unique and handcrafted gifts to suit your entire holiday gift giving needs.

There are also other extremely coveted holiday markets just slightly outside of town. A very popular market that brings in people from all over is the Millarville Christmas Market.

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This year the market was held from November 8 to 11 at the same location as their equally as popular summer Farmer’s markets and was a massive success as usual.

Spruce Meadows also hosts an extravagant market and this years dates were November 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 and 30 and December 1 and 2.

It is always a full day event at both Millarville and Spruce Meadows markets, once you get through the long line of waiting cars and finally find parking, the various other holiday happenings in addition to the artisan and handmade gifts are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

Also, just a stones throw away from Okotoks is the Saskatoon Berry Farm, who also turn the festivities up a notch come the holiday season. This year markets take place on December 1, 2, 8 and 9.

One of Okotoks resident destination stores, Red Barn Mercantile, completely changes over the store come the fall months and is known as Okotoks original Christmas store. Karin has been specializing in Christmas décor, gifts and greens for over 18 years, with a brick and mortar storefront since 2011. She has become a master in unique festive décor and an authority with fresh holiday greens.

“We offer workshops all through November and

feature

December featuring different urns and centrepieces for the holidays,” explains Karin. “We have this wonderful creation station at the back of the store, where during workshops customers can pick and choose their different materials while I am on hand to help them assemble their creation.”

The store is also a wonderful place to stop in for your holiday gift giving. They specialize in rustic, vintage, farmhouse chic and there is always something new and exciting to catch your eye.

“I buy a lot of product,” says Karin, “but not a lot of the same product, so if you love something you have to get it right away because chances are it won’t be here when you come back.”

Red Barn Mercantile is a seasonal store that is a garden shop and offers beautiful hanging baskets and planters come spring and summer.

Once you conclude your visit at Red Barn Mercantile, a short stroll across the parking lot to Karin sister’s store, All Through the House is also sure not to disappoint.

Monika specializes in rustic and farm antiques, repurposed and up cycled materials and a walk through the store is sure to pique your interest.

“I have nine in store vendors that are all very unique.

They all range in talent from re-purposers, artisans, steam punk, vintage and collectibles, cabin décor and shabby chic,” Monika explains. Her collection of vendors and products really adds to the array of interesting and unique things at All Through the House.

“During the holiday season we set up a huge 12-foot

Christmas tree which has become a destination photo op,” says Monika.

For more information on Red Barn or All Through the House, please visit redbarnmercantile. ca or allthroughthehouse.ca OL WINTER 2018 | OKOTOKS LIVING 19

business directory To book a space call 403.532.3101 or email advertising@sourcemediagroup.ca

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community

Baby, it’s Cold Outside BCO: connecting those who want to help with those who need it Story by ALYSSA BURNHAM

B

aby it’s cold outside! To Pamela Morgan and many other people in the Foothills region, this familiar refrain is so much more than the catchy lyric of a favorite holiday song. It’s a banner under which dozens of volunteers and hundreds of donors come together to help those in need.

Fourteen years ago, Okotoks resident Pamela Morgan was looking for a tangible way to help those living on the margins of society. Pamela’s brother had passed away tragically at the age of 29 after years of homelessness, leaving Pamela painfully aware that poverty can impact just about anyone. However, she had become equally convinced that just about anyone can make a difference in the lives of those facing hardships.

“At some point, everyone needs a hand up,” she says.

Pamela started small. She went through her own closet and donated her own gently used clothing to a homeless shelter. Then she asked her friends and family to do the same and offered to collect and deliver their donations for them. Word spread, and soon Pamela was collecting donations of both clothing and hygiene items from all over Okotoks on a regular basis.

The name Baby it’s Cold Outside (BCO) came to be during one of Pamela’s regular deliveries at The Mustard Seed shelter in Calgary.

“There was a gentleman down on his luck out on the street in front of The Seed, not dressed for the weather conditions, and the Christmas song Baby, it’s Cold Outside was playing on the radio, and my mission became very real. As I got out of my vehicle and started to unload the clothing, it was about that one soul we were going to help that day, not the masses, but one soul at a time.”

“To this day when I hear that Christmas song I can still see this gentleman out in the blistering cold.”

Anne-Marie Wilms, a long time friend of Pamela’s, has been part of BCO from the very beginning. In 2014, when BCO registered as a charitable society, she became a founding board member.

“For me, I’ve learned two big lessons,” Anne Marie says.

The first lesson, she explains, is that Okotoks is not immune to the effects of poverty. “There are people all

around us who need help and it isn’t always who you think it is.” Anne Marie recalls discovering during one of the first clothing drives that some of the donations were going to someone she knew. “That was a big eye opener.”

The second lesson Anne Marie has learned through her involvement with BCO is that people are tremendously generous.

“I’ve learned that most people want to help, but don’t know how to,” she says.

BCO serves to bridge the gap between those who want to help and those who need help. In the past year, more than 5,000 pounds of clothing and over 1,000 personal hygiene kits consisting of soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste and other essentials were delivered to several shelters in Calgary and surrounding areas. Pamela expects contributions will continue to grow in 2019.

The last few months of the year are BCO’s busiest season. During November, in addition to regular curbside pickups, BCO donation bins appear in dozens of Foothills region businesses in order to provide customers with a convenient place to drop off their gently used coats, hats, mittens and other cold weather items.

In December, it’s all hands on deck for BCO’s third annual Christmas Fixings Feast. Last year, 11 families were reached through this program, but thanks to a successful September fundraiser and new partnerships with the Foothills Christmas Committee and The Eagle 100.9, BCO is hoping to provide meals for three times as many people this year.

Pamela Morgan, President and Founder of BCO.

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community BCO Volunteers transporting warm donations from their Winter Clothing Drive.

BCO volunteers delivering hope around town.

Families in need will be nominated by the community and will work with volunteers to develop a personalized menu built around their own traditions and tastes. Volunteers will purchase and deliver all of the groceries to the families on December 23, so the recipient families can experience the joy and normalcy of preparing the holiday meal together.

“We (the volunteers) come into it very humbly and with a lot of compassion for the individuals,” Pamela says. “We see the person, not just the circumstance.”

“I’ve learned that most people want to help, but don’t know how to.”

There is so much for BCO and its team of volunteers and donors to celebrate this Christmas as the charitable society continues to grow in size, impact and recognition.

There will, however, be no rest for the weary. Emboldened by the generosity and support of the community, the board is looking ahead to its next big goal.

“Transitional housing is the future hope,” Pamela says. “It was once a very lofty goal, but it doesn’t seem so lofty now. It’s something we are working toward.”

To find out more about Baby it’s Cold Outside and how to get involved visit www.bcocharity.weebly.com, find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/babyitscoldoutsideyyc or email bcohelp@hotmail.com. OL

Some of BCO’s amazing volunteers.

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Morrison Homes, Pacesetter by Sterling Homes and Trico Homes are the first three builders to have opened

centred around lifestyle; a place that would inspire connections and community.”

showhomes in D’ARCY. Morrison Homes’ paired homes

“We are starting to see a lot of interest from buyers who

have been the undeniable hit of the community as they are

would otherwise be looking at some of south Calgary’s

now sold out in phase one and are pre-selling in phase two.

newer communities. Moving to Okotoks offers them the

Morrison Homes is also pre-selling highly anticipated villas

chance to be at the centre of a small, connected community,

that back onto the D’Arcy Ranch Practice Facility, starting

rather than the outskirts of big one,” he adds.

n

from the $490’s.

Anthem United then opened two brand new front drive showhomes in September. Starting from the $500’s, these

Fast Facts

new front-drive homes promise to be the epitome of the

COMMUNITY:

family move-up home with four-bedroom models available,

DEVELOPER:

as well as walk-out lots.

BUILDERS:

Also new to D’ARCY in phase two are townhomes from Partners Development Group. These homes will include a garage with no condo fees.

“These product types will offer great affordability and choice for buyers looking to get into the Okotoks market,” says Steve LePan, development manager at Anthem United.

“Close proximity to Calgary, future school sites, neighbourhood retail, and vast open spaces make D’ARCY a perfect

D’ARCY Anthem United

Laned Homes: Pacesetter by Sterling Homes, Trico Homes Front Drive Homes: Pacesetter by Sterling Homes, Trico Homes Paired Homes: Morrison Homes Villas: Morrison Homes Townhomes: Partners Development Group PRICES: Starting from the $340,000’s WEB: www.darcyokotoks.com

spot for a young family to lay down roots.”

WINTER 2018 | OKOTOKS LIVING 23

FAMILY OWNED

SINCE

Locally Owned & Operated DELIVERY SERVICE

15% OFF GROCERIES FOR SENIORS EVERY FIRST TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH in Store Only

FREE DELIVERY SERVICE FOR SENIORS IN OKOTOKS With a minimum purchase of $35 per order.

Sobeys Delivery service is available to all residents for only $15.00 on Monday to Friday

OPEN 7AM - 10PM EVERY DAY

*Delivery not available on the 1st Tuesday of each month * Excludes stat holidays*

24  OKOTOKS LIVING | WINTER 2018

WWW.SOBEYSOKOTOKS.COM

community

Family business Local owners continue to keep the tradition alive Story by SUZANNE HALE

I

n a community whose population has more than doubled in size over 14 years, some of Okotoks’ environment lacks familiarity, but amidst the growth and development that has enlivened our town’s vitality are the constants that preserve our small-town feel.

One of these is Okotoks Sobeys, owned by David and JoAnn Gilbert, who since 2004 have taken their turn at the helm of a business that has been in their family for two generations.

Having been raised in a family for whom the grocery business was as much a cornerstone to them as to the community, proffering a shopping environment as reliable as it is welcoming comes as second nature to the Gilberts.

“My parents have owned a grocery store in Okotoks since 1975,” says David, further outlining the familial bond of his and JoAnn’s store as he lists various family members on staff, perhaps one day to be joined by the Gilberts’ two boys, Raymond and Jack.

Customers entering Sobeys experience a uniquely inviting environment — in part due to the familiarity of the owners’ faces in the community, which makes them approachable at the store level. “There is no doubt that watching my parents be involved in the community had an impact on me to do the same,” David says, noting that he keeps as a guiding principal the memory of an award his parents received, called “Committed to the Quality of Life in Okotoks.” Many an Okotoks organization relies on Sobeys’ support, which is returned in kind from the community to the store. Many who are involved in our community, whether through sports, charities or other organizations, have experienced Sobeys’ generosity, which has served to strengthen the customer/proprietor bond. “It’s not just a place where you get groceries,” says a long-standing customer, “it’s families supporting families.”

One of Sobeys’ foundations is their delivery service which has been fine-tuned since David’s father and his partner operated the Thriftway grocery store in the 70s.

The delivery charge is free for seniors and persons with disabilities and offers a speedy turnaround, along with the opportunity to speak directly with the person selecting your order. “It’s a solution for the older generation if they have difficulty leaving their home, and the younger generation

enjoys the time-savings,” says David while mentioning another keystone: Sobeys’ unparalleled knowledge base.

“You have to understand the basics and do them well,” says David. “Since Sobeys is a national retailer, we have the resources to be up-to-date on what’s trending, and with a number of staff who have worked with our family store upwards of 35 years, we have an expert in every department,” David says about the knowledge that is available to customers at any time.

As far as staying relevant in an ever-changing industry, David notes, “That’s an easy one — we look at our family.

My in-laws and parents are retired and living here, my own kids and nieces and nephews are involved in all sorts of activities — we see what needs they have, and then meet them. It’s just life for us!” If by chance you haven’t walked through Sobeys’ doors, David and JoAnn invite you over.

“If you’re new here — give us a try!” OL

Pages from a 1991 flyer — when Don and Rae Gilbert ran the family business before David and JoAnn took over.

WINTER 2018 | OKOTOKS LIVING 25

| ADVERTISING FEATURE |

Redefining Beauty

Cactus Club Salon & Spa is leading the way

W

hat is beauty? Every culture and era defines it differently. Japanese women pay to make their teeth crooked in a beauty standard called “Yaeba”, while Ethiopians cut painful patterns into their face and chest with glass or knives.

In Iran, women believe they have imperfect noses, so proudly sport surgical bandages in the nose job capital of the world. To the Himba women of Namibia, true beauty is being covered from head to toe in orange-ish Otijize, which is made of ochre, fat and resin.

If you ask renowned platform artist Misael Aponte, he describes beauty as, “an experiential moment captured by one or all senses that touches, moves and inspires an individual”.

Since 1991, Cactus Club Salon & Spa’s stylists have set the beauty standard by training with fashion leaders like Misael and using the latest style, cutting techniques and products to create each client’s unique definition of beauty.

“There are no universal rules defining what is beautiful, it is a uniquely individual response to what one sees, hears and feels in their soul,” says Mandy Patterson. As the owner, and a Master Stylist, she knows the creative possibilities and relationships that blossom are limitless.

“A hairdresser isn’t just someone who cuts, colours and styles your hair. She gets to know your likes, dislikes, moods, life routine, family; and helps you project who you are to the world,” says Bhavini Ruparell. She followed founder Tamara Nadeau from Calgary more than 28 years ago, and her daughters have formed their own relationships with 26 OKOTOKS LIVING | WINTER 2018

talented alchemists Madison Borley and Hayley Copiak.

A key element in building that creative crucible is trust. Trust to confide in your stylist, trust in their creative vision; and equally important, trust in the products they use.

Although ancient Egyptians used Henna to hide grey hair, it wasn’t until 1907 that synthetic hair dyes were discovered by Eugene Schueller, the founder of L’Oreal. Then in 1947, Schwarzkopf launched “Poly Color” as the first do-it-yourself product.

One of the chemicals in the colouring process is ammonia, because it forces hair cuticles open to absorb colour. But some clients experience a very itchy scalp, and stylists said the chemicals took their breath away and irritated their skin and throat.

So they wanted better, for their clients, and themselves. This led staff to explore options and discover the Montreal based phenomena of Oligo Professionnel.

Oligo invented an exothermic technology that opens hair cuticles with heat; so no more bad smell, healthier hair and happier stylists.

“Oligo’s colour makes you think more artistically and custom formulate your colour rather than having it predetermined for you,” says Master Stylist, Brittny Etheredge. “I am achieving complex and unique colours for each client.”

“It’s an industry game changer,” says Alann Sluser, who is an Award Winning Platform Artist and Cactus Club Salon Trainer. “Clients say their hair feels healthier, smells great and has a richer shine.”

“We believe that beauty and good health should be synonymous, so have always tried to find the best products with the lowest possible impact on the environment,” says General Manager, Sara Noyes. n

events

What’s happening

To have your event listed, email info to okotoks.editor@sourcemediagroup.ca.

For culture and heritage events visit www.okotoksculture.ca For information on Town of Okotoks events visit www.okotoks.ca/discover-okotoks/things-do/ community-events-calendar

ONGOING A Heritage Christmas on at the Okotoks Museum until December 21st.

Celebrate Christmas the old-fashioned way.

Spirit of Christmas takes place until December 22nd at the Art Gallery. The best choice for hand crafted, local, artisan, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.

Dewdney Players: Wizard of Oz running January 25, 26 & 31 and February 1, 2, 7, 8, & 9 at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre, starting at 7:30 p.m. The classic story of the elusive and wonderful world of Oz. General admission is $20 in advance or $25 at the door.

FEBRUARY

DECEMBER

15

Angel Ornaments drop in to the art gallery from 12 to 2 p.m. and create your own angel ornament!

19

Create your own Snow Globe! For ages 6 – 12 at the art gallery from 4 to 5:30 p.m. participants can create their own winter wonderland.

Registration required.

In the Moment – Memory Café for people with dementia and their caregivers. The first café will be held June 6th and will continue on the 1st Wednesday of every month.

Held at the Okotoks Seniors Club from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

21

Johnny Summers Little BigBand: A Perfectly Frank Christmas at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre at 7:30 p.m. An orchestrated blend of music made popular by Frank Sinatra made accessible for all ages. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door.

22

Heather Rankin at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door.

Editor’s Note: As of publication, there were no listings for January 2019 events

WINTER 2018 | OKOTOKS LIVING 27

NORTHGATE DRIVE

338 AVENUE

BANISTER GATE

RIVE

Good E Shepherd School

RT HR

IDG ED

RIVE

D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club

MI

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ROBINSON DRIVE

NO

10

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AN

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SANDSTONE GATE CENTRE AVENUE

8

SEC ON

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BANIS TER D

Lay-By-Rest and Information Area

Dr. M. OKOTOKS DRIVE

E Percy Pegler School

DA R

YR

OA D

CRESCENT

54 9

ROAD

Okotoks School ELMA STRE

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ELIZABETH STR

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MCRAE. STREET

SH EE

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AY STR

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5

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RIVERSID

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GATE

Big Rock School E BIG ROCK TRAIL Cemetery

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Foothills Composite School H

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John Paul II Collegiate

WESTLAND STREET

E St. Mary’s School

7 Westmount School E

J

CIMARRON BLVD

HIGHWAY 7

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AR

E DHA VEN DRIV

WO OD

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GA TE

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Foothills Centennial Centre

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Crystal Ridge Golf Course

L SH O RE

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RANCH ROAD

2

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Halstead Park

. Gibson School

3

R 32 ST EET

T STREE

FISHER CRESCENT

FISHER

CRY STA LR

IDG

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MILLIGAN DRIVE

STOCKTON AVENUE

EE T

Okotoks Dawgs Baseball

FISHER PLACE FISHER GATE

Seaman Stadium & Fieldhouse

Recycling Centre

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WINTER 2018 | OKOTOKS LIVING  29

you said it

What is your favourite winter pastime?

BY ANDREW BEST

“

My favourite thing to do every winter is just spending my time with my kids and going to a restaurant.”

Andrea, age 15

Benjie Palomo

“

“

My favourite winter pastime is sitting in front of the fire with a nice cup of hot chocolate.”

My favourite thing to do in the wintertime is to pull the kids behind horses on their toboggans and have our big bonfires.”

Trystan Edgar

Morgen Langner

“

“

My favourite winter pastime used to be downhill skiing and now I’m afraid it’s cross country and snowshoeing.”

My favourite winter pastime is snuggling up with a good book by a fire, drinking a hot toddy.”

Sherri Copiak

“

My favourite thing to do in the winter is go skiing, because it’s fun to go down the hill really fast in steep parts.”

Jaelle, age 10

30 OKOTOKS LIVING | WINTER 2018

“

I lived in Mexico so I never got to experience Winter with the snow, and I love it because I get to sled, ski, snowboard and skate.”

Wayne Austen

“

My favourite winter pastime would be snowshoeing, hiking and Christmas.”

James Lozinsky