4 red deer Living • WINTER 2012
contents winter 2012
departments 7
VOL 3 • ISSUE 12
food | From lefse to tamales Celebrating Red Deer’s multicultural Christmas cuisine
11 People | Yin and yang Music and martial arts are complementary opposites for Jason Taylor 14 OUTDOORS | Build it and they will come. Outdoor rinks just part of being Canadian in winter 24 entertainment | Curtains please Youth theatre flourishing in Red Deer
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27 community | A home away from home. Ronald McDonald House helps keep families together
feature 19 Balancing act Five Red Deerians share their favourite ways to juggle work and home
columns 17 Health and wellness | Wholebody healing. Aromatherapy offers more than a pleasing scent 30 A SLICE OF LIFE | Trees & tinsel And all invisible traditions that make Christmas special
items 6 Editor’s message Follow us on twitter: www.twitter.com/RedDeerLiving Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/RedDeerLiving
Cover photography by Tanya Lee
WINTER 2012 • red deer Living 5
editor’s message PUBLISHER
Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca A ss o c ia t e P U B L I S H E R
Passing the torch If you’re just picking up your shiny new edition of Red Deer Living, you may be thinking: “That Jim Zang guy looks different these days.” Well, we’ve had a transition — a passing of the torch, if you will. Jim will continue as Associate Publisher for Source Media Group. Meanwhile, I am taking on the role of editor for Red Deer Living. What a gift it’s been for me already, working with great writers to tell stories about the city and the home I love. Yep, Christmas arrived at my house — it just came a couple of months early. As we bring you this winter edition,
Jim Zang jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca Editor
Shelley Newman shelley.newman@sourcemediagroup.ca A r t d ire c t o r
Jean Faye Rodriguez jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca G raphi c d esig n er S
Lama Azhari lama.azhari@sourcemediagroup.ca
Dave Macaulay
we’ve got stories to see you through the
dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca
festive season and into the New Year.
Megan Sereda
Some stories will inspire, others will
megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca
motivate and still others will stretch
E D I TO R I A L A S S I S T A NT
Aaliya Essa
your mind to new possibilities.
aaliya.essa@sourcemediagroup.ca
Speaking of possibilities, have you considered eating something besides
pr o d u c t i o n a d m i n is t ra t o r
Colleen Leier
turkey at Christmas? In our food
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca
department, you’ll read about the
E D I TO R I A L
delectable Christmas dishes from a few
Jason Brink, Susan Cossi, Leslie Greentree, Laurie Hodges Humble, Jock MacKenzie, Treena Mielke, Laurette Woodward
of Red Deer’s cultural communities. We’ve even included thoughts on the
P H OTO G R A P H Y
turducken, a dish that falls into a
Jason Brink, Tanya Lee, Jock MacKenzie, Laurette Woodward
culture all its own. As you continue reading, you’ll be inspired by the diverse Jason Taylor, a world-class martial artist who records acoustic albums in his spare time. The inspiration in the Ronald McDonald House article is evident from the beginning: the families, the staff, the volunteers show
Andrea Rinkel andrea.rinkel@sourcemediagroup.ca A CCO U NT I N G
Donna Roberts
amazing strength and compassion. If you’re looking for motivation, as well as inspiration, we’ve got ideas for getting off the couch this winter. Why not build an outdoor rink? You’ll get tips and tricks to learn how. Are you looking for better work-life balance? Some well-known, incredibly busy Red Deerians share their balancing acts. Perhaps you want to see kids acting out? Youth theatre is a great option for students, families and audiences alike. As we close out the magazine, you’ll learn more possibilities — like using aromatherapy to help stay healthy this winter. We’ll also end the magazine like we started: with a Christmas treat, as Treena Mielke reflects on the most important elements of the season. We’ve passed the torch here at Red Deer Living, and it’s lighting an exciting road ahead. I look forward to sharing the journey with you.
Shelley Newman, Editor shelley.newman@sourcemediagroup.ca
6 red deer Living • WINTER 2012
A d v er t isi n g S A L E S
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Copyright 2012 by Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the express written permission of the publishers. Red Deer Living™ is published 4 times per annum and is available free through select distribution points in and around Red Deer. 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. Red Deer 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 reddeer.editor@sourcemediagroup.ca
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food
Norwegian baking. Photo by Jason Brink
From Lefse to Tamales Celebrating Red Deer’s multicultural Christmas cuisine By Jason Brink
Are you and your family literally tired of turkey? While scientists tell us turkey contains no more of the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan than any other poultry, that doesn’t mean some of us aren’t yawning at least a little bit at the notion of the same bird every year. For the majority, of course, Christmas simply wouldn’t be Christmas without turkey and, if cooked properly, it can be the highlight of the meal. We get that. But for the adventurous looking to expand their holiday feasting repertoire and bring something else to the table, you need look no further than some of the deliciously diverse Christmas dishes being prepared by Red Deer’s own cultural communities.
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WINTER 2012 • red deer Living 7
food
Julie Macrae with some Norwegian baking. Photo by Jason Brink
Lefse is a traditional soft Norwegian flatbread made out of potato, milk and flour. Julie Macrae is a proud Norwegian and one of several who run the Norwegian Laft Hus in Pioneer Square. Famous for their baked goods including fattigman, rosettes, sandbakkels, krumkake, julekake, flat bread and almond skillet cake, you’d be hard-pressed to find a Canadian Norwegian family celebrating a traditional Christmas meal without perhaps the most signature Norwegian dish of all, lefse. Lefse is a traditional soft Norwegian flatbread made out of potato, milk or cream and flour. Mixed and made into balls, the lefse is then rolled out as thinly as possible into 12 to 14 inch rounds. A special lefse grill enables Julie to cook the rounds fast and hot at 500°F, until they bubble and brown. She flips them with wooden tongs then removes the lefse from the grill and places it in between wet towels so it steeps for a while and stays soft. Norwegian meat dishes served at Christmas depend upon which part of Norway the family is from. Traditionally, those from the east prepare ribba (pork), while those on the west eat pinnekjøtt (salted lamb ribs), and those in the north enjoy lutefisk. “It’s soft and mushy cod fish that has been soaked in lye,” says Julie, describing the notoriously polarizing phenomenon that is lutefisk. “Some people think it’s disgusting, others love it,” she laughs. If you have a hunch that lutefisk may 8 red deer Living • WINTER 2012
not be the best new dish to introduce to your family, Julie suggests starting them out with a dessert that everyone in Norway can agree on: riskrem. This delicious rice pudding features a hidden almond and whoever gets it wins a prize — traditionally a marzipan pig. Marilou Bergevin, a French Canadian originally from Montreal who’s been in Red Deer for more than three years, assures us that “Christmas Eve for French people is all about food.” She describes a veritable banquet of traditional French dishes from the classic tourtière (ground pork, veal or beef pie), meatballs, ragout (stew), beignets de patates (potato doughnuts) and Buche de Noel (Yule Log) to perhaps the pièce de résistance, sucre a la crème or, as we might call it, brown sugar fudge. Because her family’s Christmas celebration rarely involves less than twenty-five people, they’ve adopted a potluck approach where everyone brings a dish so no one person ends up doing all of the work. Following the feast, Marilou’s family gathers for an epic gift exchange made to last as long as possible for maximum laughs.
Sucre a la crème
food
Prodie Padios, a blogger on Filipino culture for the Red Deer Advocate, has been in Red Deer for six years with his family from the Philippines. He describes a typical Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) meal served at midnight by Catholic Filipino families which includes arroz caldo (rice porridge), lechong-baboy (roasted pig), pancit (noodles), fruit salads, dinuguan (blood pudding), pinakbet (spicy vegetables and fish), queso de bola (Edam cheese) and leche flan (caramel custard) for dessert. Tamales Red Deer’s Latin community has many delectable Christmas Teresa Carbajal, a native of El Salvador, has a tasty dishes as well. Lissette Velasquez compromise for those still adamant about the turkey — came to Red Deer from Guatemala Pavo Navideno (Christmas turkey). She prepares this sixteen years ago and is quick to traditional Latin American turkey every year for her say, “Food in our country is the family, taking great care to make sure that the signature key for everything!” Guatemalans sauce is just right. Made with a series of special spices are predominantly Catholic and called “relajo” which Teresa translates as “mess”, the celebrate midnight mass on sauce includes sesame seeds, oregano, black pepper, Christmas Eve with elaborate annatto seeds, laurel leaves, peanuts, pumpkin seeds Lissette Velasquez nativity scenes that often occupy and cumin. She serves this dish with rice, vegetables entire churches. Afterwards they go home to eat and exchange and fresh salad. “For dessert in El Salvador,” she says, gifts but, unlike North American Christmas celebrations “we have grapes and apples where we get one, maybe two, big meals on Christmas Eve or because these are the special Christmas Day, Guatemalans get nine. fruits for this season, but some Lissette describes the nine-day celebration of Las Posadas families bake sweet treats like in which a choral procession is lead through the community dessert quesadillas or marquesote replicating the plight of Mary and Joseph. They stop at each (Salvadorian sweet bread).” house and are refused entry, also in song, until they reach the This is but a mere sampling designated site for the party, where Mary and Joseph are finally of the culinary treasures Red recognized and allowed to enter by the innkeepers. Once Deer citizens have brought with inside, children break open piñatas filled with candy or fruit them from their places of origin. and the feast begins. Bon appétit and permission to Teresa Carbajal The most popular Christmas dishes in Guatemala are the feast. RL various styles of corn tamales wrapped in plantain leaves. Tamales colorados (“red tamales”) are stuffed with strips of roasted red bell pepper, capers, green olives, and chicken, beef or pork, in a thick Here’s the lowdown on that often-mentioned, rarely-tried bird-within-a-birdflavorful tomato sauce. Tamales within-a-bird holiday feast phenomenon. negros (“black tamales”) are darker As the name implies, a turducken is a de-boned chicken stuffed into a de-boned and sweeter, stuffed with chocolate, duck, which is itself stuffed into a de-boned turkey. Picture those stackable Russian raisins, prunes and almonds. Often dolls, only tastier. The cavity of the chicken and any other gaps are stuffed with complementing the tamales is sausage meat or seasoned dressing. Turduckens can be braised, roasted, grilled, barbecued pork leg cooked with bay barbequed, and even deep-fried. leaves, garlic and spices and served While it’s a fun and flavourful alternative to the traditional turkey, the turducken with a chopped vegetable white rice can be higher in calories and fat. But fear not. Local dietician Barb Dolynchuk, who combination. Ponche de frutas (fruit has roasted turduckens a couple of times over the past two years recommends, “just punch), a hot beverage made with eating the lean turkey meat and avoiding the fattier duck.” apples, pineapple, raisins, cinnamon While only available commercially during the holidays, turduckens can be and other dried fruits, is another preordered from various local grocery retailers starting at around $100. No word yet absolute must for any Guatamalan on an ostrich to hummingbird version. Christmas celebration.
Just what the heck is a turducken anyway?
WINTER 2012 • red deer Living 9
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people
Yin and yang Music and martial arts are complementary opposites for Jason Taylor By Leslie Greentree Photos by Tanya Lee
J
ason Taylor has practiced martial arts off and on since he was 12, but he only spent six months learning Yongmoodo in 2011 before travelling to Korea to bring home a silver medal in the World Yongmoodo Championships, an event featuring more than 200 martial arts competitors from around the world. The 30-year-old likes to stretch himself in a variety of ways, which may explain why he’s currently singing and writing music for an acoustic CD with local guitarist and music producer Dean Scott. If music and martial arts don’t seem complementary at first glance, Taylor and his wife Natalie agree that both involve introspection, a desire for continuous self-improvement and contemplation of the world around you. “Both are ongoing investigations of one’s good and notso-good habits and qualities,” Taylor says. “I also love fly fishing and pencil drawing, though the art has taken a back seat lately. But there’s a certain oneness that comes with all these occupations.” Taylor attributes his attraction to solitary pursuits to being the only child of a single mother who encouraged him in all his interests. Both he and Natalie grew up in Red Deer; they went to middle school together before Taylor moved to Hanna for high school. “He tells me I had a crush on him in grade six, but I don’t remember that,” Natalie laughs.
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WINTER 2012 • red deer Living 11
people
“And as well as the intense physical training, the masters teach important principles that I try to bring to my marriage and my children — being in tune with acknowledging and trying to overcome egoism.” The couple met again when they were both attending Red Deer College, she for a diploma in Communications and a BA in Sociology with a minor in Criminology; Taylor for a BA in English with a minor in Political Science. They reconnected in a Spanish class and got to know each other slowly – four years ago they eloped to Banff and were married on a mountaintop. Now, their daughter Paige is almost three and son Evander is four months old. At the same time he was reconnecting with his future wife, Taylor was playing with a number of hard rock and
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metal bands, including Templedown, which resulted in a video on MuchLoud. They played Alberta’s Own three years in a row, and Taylor smiles to think of all the great bands he shared the stage with, including Wide Mouth Mason, Johnny Truant and Diesel May. He was also reconnecting with martial arts, practicing Taekwondo and Brazilian Ju jitsu. When his Master, Seoungmin Rim of Master Rim’s World Taekwondo Academy, introduced him to Yongmoodo, a new world opened up for Taylor. “Yongmoodo has been around for about a decade, but Master Rim is the first instructor to bring it to Canada,” he says. “It combines Ju jitsu, Judo, Hapkido and Taekwondo — it is considered a total martial art.” Master Rim saw Taylor as a natural for the Korean competition and, six months later, Taylor was on his way to bringing a silver medal back for Canada. “Master Rim has a great exchange program, bringing masters from Korea to train students here,” Taylor says. “And as well as the intense physical training, the masters teach important principles that I try to bring to my marriage and my children — being in tune with acknowledging and trying to overcome egoism.” Natalie wholeheartedly encourages Taylor’s martial arts training. As a yoga B practitioner and runner, she appreciates C the spiritual and philosophical aspects of martial arts and what they bring to family life. “I see him teaching Paige respect, appreciation and graciousness,” she says. “The philosophies of martial arts are to always be both a teacher and a student.” Taylor was certainly reminded of his
D
A Family camping trip B Jason as a young athlete C Jason with his family: Paige, Natalie and Evander D Jason on stage with his band
Photos A, B and D courtesy Jason Taylor 12 red deer Living • WINTER 2012
people
Courtesy Jason Taylor
“It wasn’t just the physical challenge, it was about having to pull up courage and persistence, and hold on to a humble belief that I could do it.” status as a student of life while he was in Korea, where his silver medal didn’t come without significant challenges. During three days of intensive training with 50 athletes at a Korean camp before the competition began, he suffered a minor head injury that required stitches, an ankle injury, an allergic reaction and a twisted knee. “All I wanted, while I was over there, was to bring home a medal to show Natalie and Paige,” Taylor says. “It wasn’t until after I got home that I began to reflect on everything the experience had taught me.” “I wanted to give up — I kept thinking things couldn’t get worse, and then they did,” he says. “It wasn’t just the physical challenge, it was about having to pull up courage and persistence, and hold on to a humble belief that I could do it.” Hubris and humility coexist in all of Taylor’s pursuits; he sees it as a balance between having confidence in your own abilities while remaining a student of life. “Humility is far more important,” he says. “Courage needs to be guided and reined in by humility, by an awareness of and respect for your opponents. I would have been knocked down if I hadn’t kept an open mind. And I was competing against world-class athletes, so it wasn’t hard to be humble.” Humility and gratitude seem to be a life theme for both Taylor and Natalie. His portfolio as a community facilitator for Social Planning at The City of Red Deer includes supporting affordable housing and domestic violence initiatives. Until Evander’s birth, Natalie worked with Parkland Youth Homes as a youth and family counsellor.
But alongside that humility exist the other philosophies of martial arts: constant evolution and the wish to challenge oneself. Taylor’s musical collaboration with Dean Scott will be ready to launch in the new year, and he’s excited about it. “This new work for the solo album is more like Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam and Tool,” he says. “It has more of an indie alternative feel. I’m not quite sure how to classify it.” As well, in 2013 Taylor will travel to Indonesia for another Yongmoodo competition and this time Natalie hopes to go along. After all, she’s got an official stake in the black belt he earned in Taekwondo on Father’s Day this year. “Master Rim calls it a ‘black belt family’ because it takes a whole family to do it. It’s a challenge and it’s worth it.” She laughs, “And, it’s so cute to hear Paige trying to say ‘Taekwondo’.” The Taylor family loves swimming and walking, and spends a lot of time enjoying the park system. “A huge part of our family life is exploring the trails. We walk through the forest looking for the Cowardly Lion, or Dorothy and Toto,” Taylor says. When Taylor thinks about the pursuit of a well-balanced, meaningful life, he likes to paraphrase a quote from Plato: “It’s like the tuning of an instrument. When it’s in tune, everything resonates in harmony.” And so the yin of musical and martial arts practice combines with the yang of the performance and competition. RL
WINTER 2012 • red deer Living 13
outdoors
Build it and they will come
Outdoor rinks just part of being Canadian in winter By Laurie Hodges Humble
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14 red deer Living • WINTER 2012
Above photo courtesy Scott Cameron.
n the dead of winter, outdoor rinks, as if by magic, suddenly appear. The magicians, in the guise of a work crew, pull up to a playground, attach a hose to a water line and spray water on the flattened snow. The next morning, at that exact same spot, is a skating rink swarming with kids and a happy, barking dog. Skaters gliding across the ice with arms spread wide, cutting figure eights and shooting winning goals. In fact, thanks to the hard work of City of Red Deer Parks employees, our city will be home to 68 public outdoor rinks this winter. What many may see as magic, the Parks crews see as co-operation from Mother Nature combined with their years of experience. According to Parks Amenities Supervisor Steve Davison, there must be three to four inches of snow before the process begins. The area of the rink is then measured and blocked similar to edging for poured concrete. “After the base is packed down, water is poured over it. It takes eight to 10 days to build the ice to a clear, concise state. The ice has to have a two to three inch base before a rink can be opened,” says Davison. “The ice is kept smooth by resurfacers and a tractor blade/auger. On a daily basis crews are assigned to maintain all 68 ice surfaces in the city — ice must be cleared right after a snow fall to keep it flat and smooth.”
outdoors
…another key factor to a successful backyard rink, “a very supportive wife…” A Beautiful Bower Ponds is a favourite skating destination for many (Courtesy The City of Red Deer). B A snowy November meant Al Sim would soon be able to create his incredible backyard rink. C Al Sim recruits help to place the logo in his backyard rink. (Photo courtesy Al Sim).
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C
Ice rinks are also found in many backyards, and Al Sim’s rink is neering was really interesting and I didn’t know there were so the pinnacle of the backyard experience. From its humble beginmany requirements to getting it right.” Engineering requirements nings in 1999 as an 80 by 30 foot asphalt pad, Sim put a lot of time include a flat level ground surface, securing soil at levels higher and effort into his rink, and it was ranked in the top 10 in the 2004 or lower than the rink and clearing the rink base of stones, oils, Hockey Night in Canada (HNIC) Backyard Rink contest. It remains and unevenly cut grass. Chilibek also adds another key factor to a a favourite gathering place for neighbourhood kids and outdoor successful backyard rink, “a very supportive wife who let me keep hockey enthusiasts. the hoses thawed out on the kitchen floor for most of the winter.” “Having permanent boards is an advantage; however, the temA touch of romance, the thrill of the great outdoors or returning perature still needs to be -6 to -10ºC at all times,” says Sim. “It takes to a simpler life, there is something that draws Canadians to outfive to six applications of cold tap water to form a good base. If the door rinks. To keep this winter magic alive, may we always have ice becomes chewed and rutted, I flood it with hot water to help people like Steve, Al and Jason who find pleasure in creating the smooth out the surface.” Sim explains that, for him, the initial perfect outdoor rink. RL capital investment was expensive, but now the investment is time, lots of time to clear snow off and re-flood the rink. He also goes the extra mile to add special touches to the ice. “I purchase Though the popularity of neighbourhood Want to learn more? Visit The City of Red Deer’s rink lines as a kit — this is actually outdoor rinks fluctuates with the city’s website at www.reddeer.ca, and under Recretissue paper that you ‘glue’ onto the ice changing demographics, consistently ation, Parks and Culture, you’ll find: with a paint roller dipped in hot water,” the most popular outdoor rink is at Bower • A complete list of outdoor rinks, and he says. “The centre ice logo is printed Ponds, located 4707 – 64 Avenue. It has a • A complete listing of Community Association on perforated paper, which is then skate rental booth, warm hut and outdoor & Activity Centres, including outdoor rinks attached in much the same manner. fire pit. For more information call: Clearview, Eastview Estates, Grandview Once the markings are in place, the 403-318-6298. Gardens, Highland Green, Lancaster, Lonsdale, rink is re-flooded to form a securing The Speed Skating Oval is the hidden Normandeau, Oriole Park, Riverside Meadows layer of ice.” gem of the Red Deer’s outdoor rinks. This and West Park. A few years ago Jason Chilibek, mile competitive tract has ice renowned Interested in building your own backyard rink? another backyard enthusiast, tried for its speed, and is located at Rotary Step-by-step instructions can be found at: his hand at building an outdoor rink. Recreation Park, 4501 – 47A Avenue. www.backyardicerink.com, www.chester.ca/ “I found a lot of satisfaction in the For more information call: 403-309-8411. recreation/how-to-build-an-outdoor-rink.html RL overall process,” he says. “The engi-
Find the best outdoor rink this winter
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health and wellness with Susan Cossi
Whole-body healing Aromatherapy offers more than a pleasing scent
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romatherapy. The term often causes confusion, misleading many people and cloaking the importance of aromatic plant medicine to our well-being. Aromatic plant medicine has been in use for some 6,000 years: there is nothing “New Age” about it. Plant usage is surrounded by religion, mysticism and healing, and it has aided our survival against plagues and disease. The Egyptians, Indians, Persians, Romans and Greeks used plants in times of spiritual enlightenment, love and war. The most read book in centuries is the Holy Bible and many references can be found relating to plant usage. The wall paintings found in the Lascaux (Dordogne) caves on the northern slopes of the Pyrenees, indicate the use of medicinal plants by the cave dwellers. These paintings were dated as being 18,000 years old. Aromatherapy is not just all about smells. Modern day aromatherapy can be defined as: “The controlled use of essential oils to maintain and promote physical, psychological and spiritual well-being.” The essential oils are obtained by a steam distillation process from a large variety of plants. The oil’s molecular structure allows it to penetrate the skin via hair follicles and sweat glands, and the fat-soluble oils can also permeate skin cells. After a 10-minute body application of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), for example, traces of linalool and linalyl acetate, which are components of lavenders, can be detected in the blood 20 minutes later. The four classifications of aromatherapy include: 1. clinical therapy, 2. stress management, 3. beauty therapy and 4. environmental fragrancing. There are also four different classification grades of essential oils. Professionally-trained aromatherapists will administer these in a variety of different ways,
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Essential oils recommended for winter Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) - antibacterial; anti-catarrhal; antiseptic; cicatrizant; lipolytic; sedative; rubefacient Chamomile Roman (Chamaemelum nobile) - antibacterial; antiinflammatory; anti-migraine; antiseptic; anti-spasmodic; carminative; sedative Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) - analgesic, antibacterial, antiseptic; anti-infectious; anti-inflammatory; anti-spasmodic; antiviral Eucalyptus (Smithii) - analgesic; anti-infectious; anti-inflammatory; antiseptic; antiviral; decongestive; anti-catarrhal Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) - analgesic; anti-infectious; antiinflammatory; antioxidant; antidepressant; immune stimulant Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) - analgesic; antibacterial; antiinflammatory; antiseptic; anti-spasmodic; antidepressant; cardio tonic Lemon (Citrus limon) - antibacterial; anti-diabetic; antifungal; antiseptic; antiviral; sedative; immune stimulant Thyme sweet (thymus vulgaris ct linalool or ct geraniol) - antiinfectious; anti-inflammatory; anti-spasmodic; antiviral; antiseptic; immune stimulant; use with care Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) - antiseptic; antibacterial; antiinfectious; anti-migraine; antiseptic; antiviral; anti-catarrhal Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) - analgesic; antibacterial; antiinfectious; anti-inflammatory; anti-parastic; antiviral; Immune stimulant
Susan Cossi holds a Clinical Diploma in Aromatherapy and is a recognised teacher of The International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists. She has been a holistic health practitioner since 1993 and is a Metaphysician. She is the Principal of Cossi Academy of Professional Aromatology and a Vice Principal for Penny Price Academy, the only schools in Canada recognised by IFPA. www.holisticteachings.com WINTER 2012 • red deer Living 17
health and wellness
which may include dermal, inhalation, oral or rectal treatments. The world of aromatherapy is diverse and extraordinary — its usage can range from clinical to the scientific and esoteric. Treatments can include anything from dealing with symptoms associated with cancer to the unsightly look of cellulite. Aromatherapy has also been widely used to prevent illness and provide protection against epidemics. Consider using essential oils to help protect you and your family from illness this winter. RL
Essential oil buying tips 1. Research and get to know and trust a reputable supplier. 2. The label should include the plant’s Latin name, show the country of origin and include cautions and directions of use. 3. The word “Natural” on the bottle does not guarantee purity. 4. The bottle should be dark and always sealed. 5. Always dilute essential oils. 6. Before using therapeutic or clinical grade essential oils, always get professional advice from a trained aromatherapist that belongs to a professional aromatherapy association.
Adult Body rubs Joint stiffness
Colds Cedarwood Eucalyptus Smithii Lemon
1 drops 4 drop 3 drops
30ml of sweet almond oil or unscented lotion designed to blend with essential oils.
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Rosemary Sweet Marjoram Chamomile roman Clove Bud
Adult Bath recipe 4 drops 3 drops 2 drops 1 drop
Dilute in 20ml of sweet almond, 10ml of calendula, and 10ml of St. Johns Wort.
Rosemary Eucalyptus Lavender
Air freshener 5 drops 6 drops 8 drops
Dilute oils in a tablespoon of honey and pour into the bath.
Cinnamon Clove Thyme Orange Rosemary
6 drops 3 drops 4 drops 5 drops 4 drops
Dilute in minimum 100 ml of distilled water. Can also be sprayed on the bottom of shoes, bags and coats.
feature
Balancing act Five Red Deerians share their favourite ways to juggle work and home Story and photos by Jock Mackenzie
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chieving a balance between work and home is a constant struggle, a struggle to achieve fulfillment, satisfaction, a sense of well-being and to attain one’s goals. Red Deer Living spoke with five prominent Red Deer citizens to see how they maintain that delicate balance between their busy professional lives and the pastime activities they love. Mayor Morris Flewwelling smiles broadly as he looks forward to a well-deserved retirement. He recently announced he will not run in next year’s election and so will say good-bye to 12 years on City Council and eight years as
mayor. Flewwelling explains that his positions have been very rewarding because he loves the work. Weekends and evenings off — and not attending over 800 engagements per year — will give him time to spend with his wife, Hazel, to cook, to read historical novels, to enjoy art and antiques and genealogy, and to spend time with his horses. Even though he and Hazel rode horses together in their youth, it wasn’t until age 40 that he owned his first horse. But a lifetime of riding has left its mark, and now he owns or shares ownership in over a dozen horses. He anxiously awaits the time when he can spend even more hours riding Willow and the other horses on his property near Pine Lake.
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Morris Flewwelling with horse Willow
WINTER 2012 • red deer Living 19
Jack MacDonald performs in the Red Deer Hospice Celebrity Dance Competition, 2012. Photo courtesy Jack MacDonald. Fire Chief Jack MacDonald worked 16 to 18 hour days when he first became chief ten years ago. That’s eased up, but being in charge of five fire stations and 190 staff and always being on call doesn’t make for a laid-back lifestyle. Added to his plate is the responsibility of overseeing the 911/Dispatch Centre that looks after an area north to Lacombe, south to the American border and east and west to the provincial borders. When he does have time to relax, you might say he slows to the pace of a three-alarm blaze. MacDonald enjoys a mix of physical activities that includes weights at work, cycling, hockey, Pilates and Bikram yoga. In March of 2012, he attained a degree of fame when he and dance studio instructor, Natalie Brooks, won the inaugural Red Deer Hospice Society Celebrity Dance Competition. When he does sit down, it isn’t to watch television. MacDonald enjoys reading books about leadership, including Jim Collins’ Good to Great and Peter Drucker’s many books; his recent favourite is a lifestyle edition, Younger Next Year, by Chris Crowley.
When he does have time to relax, you might say he slows to the pace of a three-alarm blaze. MacDonald enjoys a mix of physical activities that include weights at work, cycling, hockey, Pilates and Bikram yoga. 20 red deer Living • WINTER 2012
Lynne Mulder
Karen Simon
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Red Deer City Councillor Lynne Mulder explains that, after her most recent career as Vice President Academic at Red Deer College, she’s not retired, she’s refocused. Many consider City Council work a part-time job but often it isn’t. Preparation for most regular meetings involves reading over 800 pages of information and, as one example, a recent meeting went from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. A believer in giving back to her community, Mulder has been on local, national and international boards for the United Way and, although she has eased her involvement, continues to sit on the Advisory Board to Chairs of the United Way. Her current passion comes with her position as President of the Board for Red Deer & District SPCA, and it is with considerable pride that she speaks of all that has been done by the people of Red Deer and area for this important cause. When she does have time off, Mulder and her dogs are regulars at the Off Leash area at Three Mile Bend. Accompanied by her furry friends, Dali and Maggie, she loves her hour-long circuit. Leisure time also includes local theatre (with Bull Skit being a favourite) and reading — her bookshelf includes Lisa Scottoline, Michael Connelly and James Patterson. Inspector Karen Simon of the Red Deer RCMP is extremely active both professionally and in her spare time. Simon’s official title is Operations Support Officer and with it comes responsibilities for supporting people on the front lines as well as operations within the office. Added to these many tasks, she has another position that is almost a second full-time job — ERT (Emergency Response Team) Commander. The ERT reacts to high-risk situations in the southern half of the province. Apparently, any down time is considered time worth filling. To ward off the possibility of a dull moment, Simon is co-chair for the Women’s Advisory Committee for K Division, a Rotary Club member, a board member for Women’s Outreach and an aide-de-camp for Alberta’s Lieutenant Governor. Always an early riser, she exercises each morning with a one-hour routine and often ends her day with yoga at Breathing Room Yoga Studio and Café. Golf in the summer and curling in the winter are further opportunities for her to keep fit and be active.
Always an early riser, she exercises each morning with a one-hour routine.
Pieter Langstraat
“I’ve got great tools in the garage, and I can always dream up some kind of project.” Red Deer Public School Superintendent Pieter Langstraat is another busy man. He began his career in Red Deer as a teacher at Eastview Junior High School, and he describes “growing up in the system” as a vice principal, principal, Co-ordinator of Instruction, Deputy Superintendent and, for the last three years, Superintendent of Schools. His days are filled with meetings with senior administrators, work with the School Board, parent concerns, school visits, the necessary paperwork and the list goes on. Langstraat notes, “When I’m at work, I really work.” With commitments that frequently eat away at evenings and with trips out of town, he says, “I treasure and value my time at home.” When he gets free time, he loves to sit with a Saturday morning coffee and chat with his wife about the world and what’s going on. And he loves puttering. “I’ve got great tools in the garage,” he says, “and I can always dream up some kind of project.” For exercise, Langstraat prefers the solitary variety like riding on the bike trails (with dog Winston in the basket), running, and cross-country skiing. “I like these kinds of activities,” he explains. “My life is very busy, but I can do these whenever I have a spare moment.” RL
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Red Deer Downtown Destination downtown Character and community makes a special shopping experience Downtown is the place to be. With the great gathering spaces at Veterans’ Park and the redeveloped of Gaetz Avenue, Red Deerians are frequently treated to events, concerts and markets throughout our historic city centre. Plus, the diverse cafes and restaurants offer a delicious sampling of North American and multicultural cuisine. And, you may have heard: the shopping is fantastic. Downtown Red Deer is filled with specialty and locally-owned shops that have a unique mix of products. Looking for local artwork? You can find that downtown. Perhaps you want a one-of-a-kind item for your home? Downtown. And when it comes to fashion, downtown retailers are making a name for themselves with designer items that can’t be easily found elsewhere. To learn more about downtown, just park your car and let your feet guide you. You can also visit www.downtownreddeer.com.
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Red Deer Downtown
Get Connected! Advertise in Red Deer Living
Contact Andrea Rinkel 403.877.2560 • 1.888.932.3101 andrea.rinkel@sourcemediagroup.ca WINTER 2012 • red deer Living 23
entertainment
Curtains please! Youth theatre flourishing in Red Deer
A Aric Froese as Aslan in Narnia B Cast of Annie – Cornerstone Youth Theatre C Sydney Malyon in a Tree House production (photo courtesy Andrea and Sydney Malyon) D Stephanie Orr rehersing with Narnia Cast Photos A, B & D by Laurette Woodward.
By Laurette Woodward
It was several years ago that Sydney Malyon first tried a summer camp at Tree House Youth Theatre. She enjoyed it but didn’t continue because, in her words, “I was afraid people at school would categorize
exuberance, energy and focus as she becomes more and more comfortable with herself.” Gould says some of that is maturation, but, “Sydney is taking more chances as a performer; she’s coming out of herself
me as a drama person.” Fast forward a few years, and several more experiences at Tree House, and 14-year-old Sydney loves Tree House. In fact, she loves it so much it even influenced her choice of high school. She selected the school that offered drama opportunities she wanted, and where some of her Tree House friends attend, rather than the school where most of her elementary and middle school friends would go. “We’re like a big family at Tree House — it’s a place where you can be yourself,” says Sydney. “I think everyone should have that.” Sydney’s mom, Andrea Malyon, has been excited to watch her daughter’s growth. “At first Sydney was hesitant and a bit overwhelmed,” says Malyon. “Now she’s the one that encourages and comforts the new people. She’s blossoming. I’m so proud of her.” Tree House’s Artistic Director, Matt Gould, has enjoyed observing Sydney’s growth too. “I have watched Sydney gain not just confidence, but
more and more.” Gould says Sydney’s experience is what Tree House is all about. “We want our kids to have a strong sense of community. Kids are accepted no matter who they are,” he explains. “That’s our culture.” This culture began almost 25 years ago, when Richard O’Brien from Red Deer College’s theatre department founded Tree House Theatre. Gould came to Tree House in 2005 and now serves as Artistic Director. “I fell in love with the kids,” says Gould. “That’s what keeps me here.” Tree House serves youth 12 to 17 years old through weekly rehearsals where kids prepare a play or musical for performance. During these rehearsals, Gould teaches the fundamentals and nuances of stage performance, focusing on what each student needs. Tree House produces annual performances in December and May, and it also offers a summer camp. New students can join in the fall, in January or for a summer session. Productions over the years have included Mulan Junior, Sleeping Beauty and Some Grimm Tales as well as some plays written by Gould. In January, Tree House is starting a program for nine to 11 year olds. Their spring presentation will be Folk Tales, which audiences can view at the same time as Scene Stealers, performed by the 12 to 17 year olds.
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Cornerstone Youth Theatre Local youth can also experience the fun and friendship theatre brings at Cornerstone Youth Theatre, which began in 2009. Tari Puffer, the current Executive Director, brought the organization to Red Deer because she wanted to start a group that would provide theatre arts training and wholesome family entertainment.
entertainment
B The organization’s first production, Christmas Carol, had 13 students involved. Compare that to its most recent production, Narnia, which had a cast of 78. “The numbers say Cornerstone is fulfilling a need in the community,” says Stephanie Orr, Cornerstone’s Artistic Director. “I think what attracts people to Cornerstone is the opportunity for families to work together.” And families do contribute. When a child is cast in a production, parents agree to become a part of a committee with assignments such as sets, costumes, tickets, treats or backstage. “Our program fosters creativity for students and parents,” says Orr. “And it creates a strong sense of community. I love the families I’ve met and been able to interact with.” The sense of community really appeals to Candace Froese, who has two children involved in Cornerstone. “Parents are so encouraging and supportive of one another,” says Froese. She is also pleased with the growth she’s seen in her son, Aric. “Before Cornerstone, I had no idea Aric could sing like he does,” says Froese. “I’ve also seen growth in his confidence. He’s more outgoing because of Cornerstone.” Aric says, “it’s a great learning experience and a place to meet people.” He particularly loves the challenge of portraying someone he’s not. “My favourite characters are the comical bad guys.” According to Stephanie Orr, there are many children who find acceptance at Cornerstone. She recalls working with a teenage girl who couldn’t read. “She was sure she was going to fail,” says Orr. “But she took a risk, auditioned, and was cast in a role.” Orr says she worked with the girl on memorization and strongly emphasized her talent at expressing emotion. Orr says the girl’s experience allowed her to see herself differently — in light of her strengths. Cornerstone’s Area Co-ordinator, Jen MacAhonic, loves watching kids’ confidence grow. “You can really see that at auditions,” says MacAhonic. “You might observe a child, who hasn’t auditioned previously, be quiet and shy. The next time they audition, they’re better, and then after that they start blowing you away. It’s such a confidence builder.” MacAhonic adds, “Learning to be comfortable in front of people is a life skill.” D Cornerstone’s annual calendar involves productions
C that are rehearsed and produced during three 10 week sessions, starting in January, March and September. Children who are eight to 18 years old are eligible to audition if they are enrolled in a Cornerstone class offered concurrently with the production. Classes are held one night a week and cover a range of skills such as voice, dance, drama and specialty areas like make-up, musical theatre and improvisation. Children can also participate in week-long summer camps, designed to let them ‘try’ it before committing to attend a 10 week session. Recent productions include Snow White, Jungle Book, Robin Hood, Annie and Narnia. In January, Cornerstone will begin rehearsals for Wild West; and Night at the Museum. For additional information, visit www.treehouseyouththeatre.ca or www.cornerstoneyouththeatre.org. RL
“…it creates a strong sense of community. I love the families I’ve met and been able to interact with.”
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community
A home away from home Ronald McDonald House helps keep families together Story by Jason Brink
T
hings became immediately complicated for Angela Grinde Handbury and her family when she delivered her son Lachlan by emergency C-section in March, 2012. As a result of Angela contracting gestational diabetes, Lachlan was born at 11 pounds, 13 ounces. Unable to regulate his own blood glucose, Lachlan’s pancreas wasn’t creating enough insulin, and his levels dropped dangerously low. If left too long, there was the risk of brain damage. Suddenly, what had already been a difficult four-day ordeal for the Handbury family, an hour away from their home in Wetaskiwin, was about to become even longer and more uncertain. Scenarios like this are the foundation upon which the Ronald McDonald House Central Alberta (RMHCA) was built. Located down the street from Red Deer Regional Hospital, RMHCA offers a comfortable home for out-of-town families with sick children. Since opening its doors in February of 2012, RMHCA has served 126 families like the Handburys. The house contains 11 suites designed to comfortably fit four family members, with cots and extra bedding available if needed. Every effort has been made to create a home away from home for families coping with the stress and
“The house was a soft place to land when everything else was going totally wrong.”
Photo by Jason Brink
fatigue experienced during the treatment of a sick child. Amenities include a fitness room, a computer area, a jaw-dropping magic room and a playroom. “This house was a long time coming,” says Larry Mathieson, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Central Alberta. “It was originally intended to be smaller but, after a feasibility study was conducted, we were surprised by just how many families needed this service. It was clear we needed a bigger facility.” The study revealed that more than 33,000 children stay at Red Deer Regional Hospital each year, and one-third of them come from out-of-town. That’s an average of 30 out-of-town children per day. For RMHCA to help families in need, volunteers play a big role. Their support is evident in fundraising efforts like the upcoming “Freeze the House” bonspiel and in programs such as “Home for Dinner,” where volunteers come and cook meals for families, then clean up and package the leftovers. These special touches make all the difference for families like the Handburys, who spent 11 days at RMHCA. They were five minutes away from Lachlan — instead of an hour commute on unpredictable springtime highways, and they also received support for the whole family. “We were welcomed from the moment we arrived,” explains Handbury. She describes how Karen Billings, the house’s “go-to girl” — who was previously a nurse and understood exactly what was happening with Lachlan — would take their two-year-old daughter to do crafts or dog therapy while they were at the hospital. “It’s certainly not a place you want to go to, but it’s nice to know it’s there when you need it. The house was a soft place to land when everything else was going totally wrong.” RL
Angela and Kirk Handbury with their children Gabriela and Lachlan in the Magic Room at RMHCA. Photo courtesy Handbury family.
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| Advertising Feature |
Planet Fitness and Health Club Helping clients reach health and wellness goals
“A
t Planet Fitness and Health Club, we help people from all walks of life achieve their health and wellness goals,” says Lanett Young, manager with Planet Fitness and Health Club. “Everyone has a different path to becoming healthy and, no matter where people are on their own journeys, we’ve got the facilities, staff and support to help them get there.” This support is evident when you first walk into Planet Fitness and the smiling staff members greet you by name. The facilities will undoubtedly be the next thing to catch your eye, as the bright, clean, colourful atmosphere provides an inviting space to work out. As you travel through the club, your first stop is likely to be the cardio area, which has a variety of machines to get your heart rate up. Next, you’ll have different options to tone your muscles, whether in the free weights room or in the APEX circuit training room. “Our APEX room has 17 separate weight training machines,” says Young. “People can choose to target specific areas, or they can do a full circuit to target every muscle group in the body.”
Planet Fitness also has an unexpected perk for members: spa facilities that include a 19 metre pool, along with a hot tub and steam room. This peaceful area can either be incorporated into your routine, with swimming The APEX training room has 17 machines and water workouts in the to target every muscle group in the body. pool, or it can be a relaxing way to cap off your time at the club. “There are so many special elements here,” Young explains. “From our facilities to our oxygen bar to our great staff and personal trainers, we offer the complete package to help people achieve their health and wellness goals.” For more information on Planet Fitness and Health Club, visit www.planetfitnesscentre.com or call 403-346-8260. n
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a slice of life with Treena Mielke
Trees & tinsel And all invisible traditions that make Christmas special
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hristmas is only a few sleeps away. I know this to be true because one of my grandchildren phoned me and told me so. “It’s almost here, grandma,” the dear little voice coming over the line said. “It’s only a few sleeps away. And I wrote a letter to Santa and mom mailed it and,” she added with special emphasis, “I have been very good.” I smile. Just hearing her voice prattle on about nothing and everything makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. The telephone call is a perfect excuse to take a break, so I pour a cup of coffee and sit down amidst a half-finished ‘to do’ list, a topsy-turvey pile of presents and my favourite, well-worn Christmas cookbook. Wrapping my fingers around my Frosty the Snowman mug, I chuckle when I think of my conversation with my granddaughter. I do love this time of year. I am really no different than my grandkids. “When did it all start?” I muse. “When did I first get this feeling — this warm, excited, happy, joyful feeling that, for some unknown reason, comes back and wraps itself tenaciously around my heart every year?” I look around at the cheerful clutter that surrounds me, but, even as I look, it fades away. In its place I see an old house, a shack really, with tattered curtains in the windows and smoke pouring out of a blackened chimney. It looks rather desolate, but the windows are bright against the inky black night. When I peer inside, I see a magnificent real tree lit up with bubble lights. Atop the tree is the most beautiful star in the world, fashioned out of tinfoil and cardboard by my brother and me. And, on each of the trees branches hang tiny strips of tinsel, glittering and sparkling and picking up the reflection of the bubble lights. The homemade tinsel was created by me as well, using the tinfoil from my dad’s rollyour-own cigarette packages. And, somewhere, even though you
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couldn’t see it in my humble childhood home, where I lived with my dad and my brothers, was that feeling: that excited, joyful, happy feeling that some people call the spirit of Christmas. That’s when I caught it. The Christmas spirit. I rub my eyes and my kitchen — with its brand new look-like granite counter tops — is back. Ahhh, Christmas, I think. It’s a good thing. Only at Christmas can you take an ornament off the tree, polish it until it glows bright and shiny and peer inside to find a kaleidoscope of memories. I hear a knock at the door and, when I open it, my son is there, holding a gorgeous evergreen wreath tied with a red ribbon. “I was just passing by and thought you might like this, mom,” he said. I smile at him gratefully, thinking it is hard to believe that he was the six-week-old child his dad held up to help choose our very first tree so many years ago. “That was our best tree,” I said to him later at the kitchen table, as I recounted the story for the thousandth time. “You say our tree is the best tree every year, mom,” he chided gently. “Of course I do son,” I reply. “It’s tradition and traditions are important.” RL