4 red deer Living • spring 2013
contents Spring 2013
departments 7
food | Beyond beef Alternative meats a great addition to your diet
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VOL 3 • ISSUE 13
14
10 People | Ms. Mogul Janet Gilmore breaks new ground as a senior executive in plant maintenance and construction 14 OUTDOORS | Nature abounds The Kerry Wood Nature Centre is an ecological gem in Red Deer 18 Culture | Rooted in the arts Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Distinguished Artist Awards come to Red Deer
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20 community | Centennial celebrations. 2013 promises to be a great year in Red Deer 30 entertainment | Year After Year Red Deer’s musical feature film
feature 25 A new museum experience Anticipating the MAG’s new permanent history exhibit
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columns 34 Health and wellness | Medicinal gardens. Use ancient herbs for modern healing 38 A SLICE OF LIFE | Colour me happy Finding joy in Easter eggs and everything in between
items 6 Editor’s message
7 Follow us on twitter: twitter.com/RedDeerLiving Like us on facebook: facebook.com/RedDeerLiving
Cover photography by Tanya Lee
spring 2013 • red deer Living 5
editor’s message
A year to remember Red Deer is embarking on a pretty important year. 2013 is the city’s centennial and, with this achievement, there’s an opportunity to celebrate who we are as a community. Our city has grown from a tiny cluster of buildings in a field near the railroad tracks to a thriving city that’s poised to grow and prosper for years to come. We’ve done great things since Red Deer officially became a city in 1913, and it looks like the best is yet to come.
info@sourcemediagroup.ca A ss o c ia t e P U B L I S H E R
Jim Zang jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca Editor
Shelley Newman shelley.newman@sourcemediagroup.ca
I say “we” even though I am not a born and bred Red Deerian. My husband and I came here 10 years ago, looking for work and opportunities and adventures. We found these things and so much more: a city that’s friendly and active
A r t d ire c t o r
Jean Faye Rodriguez jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca G raphi c d esig n er S
and beautiful. We found a place to meet
Lama Azhari
neighbours and grow our careers and
lama.azhari@sourcemediagroup.ca
establish roots. I expect our story is similar
Dave Macaulay dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca
to that of many people who now call
Megan Sereda
Red Deer home. While we Newmans are celebrating our 10th anniversary here, Red Deer is celebrating its centennial, and there is a festive mood in the air. This edition of Red Deer Living pays homage to the centennial and provides a snapshot of the people and places that create the fabric of the community. We start with a look at one part of our agricultural community
megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca pr o d u c t i o n a d m i n is t ra t o r
Colleen Leier colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca E D I TO R I A L
Jason Brink, John Burnham, Susan Cossi, Leslie Greentree, Lani Ledingham, Jock MacKenzie, Treena Mielke, Lee Ann Waines, Laurette Woodward P H OTO G R A P H Y
and the people involved in the bison and elk industries. Then, the inspirational and driven Janet Gilmore shares her thoughts on reaching new goals. Moving on, you’ll read how the Kerry Wood Nature Centre is a
Jason Brink, John Burnham, Tanya Lee, Jock MacKenzie, Laurette Woodward A d v er t isi n g S A L E S
Andrea Rinkel andrea.rinkel@sourcemediagroup.ca
hub for everything ecological in Red Deer. In this centennial year, Red Deer has the honour of hosting the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Distinguished Artist Awards, as described in the “Rooted in the Arts” article. Next, we’ll dig into centennial stuff and what it means to Red Deer. Did you know that Sylvan Lake and Delburne are celebrating centennials, too? A list of events and activities is provided for these nearby communities. You’ll see how history comes alive with the new, interactive permanent history exhibit at the Red Deer Museum & Art Gallery. The creative genius of local filmmakers is highlighted in the Entertainment section, which describes the movie-making process of Year After Year, Red Deer’s musical feature film. Since spring is just around the corner, Susan Cossi shares how to get a jump start on planting by growing a medicinal garden. And, wrapping up the magazine, Treena Mielke provides her thoughts on Easter. 2013 is a year of celebrations, whether it’s community-wide events or, like me, you’ve got a little anniversary all your own. We live in a pretty amazing city, and that’s always worth celebrating.
Shelley Newman, Editor shelley.newman@sourcemediagroup.ca
6 red deer Living • spring 2013
PUBLISHER
Source Media Group
A CCO U NT I N G
Donna Roberts accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY
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Copyright 2013 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
Beyond beef
Alternative meats a great addition to your diet Story by John Burnham and Shelley Newman If there is anything to the idea that food grown with love is better for you, Red Deer should be a very healthy place to live. Our location, surrounded by farm and pasture land, provides a wealth of delicious, wholesome eating options. One part of this rich agricultural tapestry is the alternative meats industry, and the people involved — from the rancher to the retailer — love what they do and pursue it with a passion. Elk rancher Herman Bulten is at the start of this process, and his work is filled with care and attention to detail. The health and well-being of Bulten’s animals is paramount, and this includes everything from providing the herd with proper nutrition to ensuring that the last stages of production are stress-free. Bulten works closely with Bettina Schmucki, owner and CEO of YB Quality Meats in Penhold, to process the meat. “We’ve built our business based on environmental consciousness and kindness
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spring 2013 • red deer Living 7
food
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A Elk rancher, Herman Bulten. B Ivan Smith behind the counter at Big Bend Market.
C Bettina Schmucki toward animals,” she says. in YB Quality “It’s also important for the Meats. consumer to know where D Ivan Smith with their meat is grown and his bison herd. processed, and because Photos by we’re part of the central John Burnham. Alberta community, we can provide these details with confidence.” The extra work that people like Bulten and Schmucki put in takes a lot of effort, but they give it gladly because they feel they’re doing something important. These sentiments are echoed by Ivan Smith, whose diverse experiences provide him with a unique perspective on the alternative meats industry, right from production to your table. “I was working in a pharmacy after graduation, and I noticed how people’s health, in general, seemed to be deteriorating,” he explains. “Being in a first-world country, we should be gaining health rather than seeing all these problems develop. So, I started to look at the impact of our diets and consider how healthy eating could factor in.”
Smith saw bison as a good, healthy fit, so he started raising a herd and has since opened Big Bend Market, which now offers bison, venison, elk, beef, free-range chicken and many other grocery products. While he doesn’t insist that the products he carries have the organic stamp, Smith does require they be produced according to standards that he claims exceed organic requirements in some cases. “Red Deerians shouldn’t have to drive all the way to Calgary to get something they deem is essential to their health or the best quality that they can find,” he says. “I want a store that can feed the whole family, and we’ve got the products, including a huge selection of alternative meat items, to do this.” Whether or not the care and love from the producers and retailers makes alternative meats any better for a person, science indicates that it is. “Generally, alternative meats including bison, venison, moose and elk are leaner than beef,” says Barb Dolynchuck, dietician with Prosports Nutrition. “Alternative meats have about 1/3 fewer calories and quite a bit less saturated and total fat. This is important because to keep our blood cholesterol levels down, we should try to keep our saturated fat intake down to less than 10 per cent of our daily calorie intake.” Dolynchuck adds that, overall, alternative meats are a healthy option and most contain a good amount of Vitamins B6, B12, riboflavin and niacin. Research done by Dr. Jayson Galbraith of Alberta Agriculture
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“Generally, alternative meats including bison, venison, moose and elk are leaner than beef. They have about 1/3 fewer calories and quite a bit less saturated and total fat.” 8 red deer Living • spring 2013
food Teriyaki Bison Steak BBQ supports this, concluding that bison meat has less than 20 per cent of the fat, six times the Omega-3 and three times the Omega-6 of traditional meat. Galbraith provides additional reasons why bison meat is a healthy choice. “Bison are raised without hormone implants or diets with antibiotics in them,” he says. “They are very well-adapted to live in our Alberta climate, have very few calving difficulties and calve in April and May, when the weather is warmer and nutritious grass is available.” The common denominator among people in the alternative meat industry seems to be a desire to engage in the business of making this world a better place, and this includes environmental considerations. Since animals such as bison and elk are native to this part of the world, they are often raised with less impact on the environment. They don’t need artificial shelter, for example, so there is a smaller footprint from infrastructure. Elk rancher Herman Bulten says that he can pasture three elk on the same land he would need to pasture one beef animal. Bison rancher Ivan Smith claims the ratio to be three to two in favour of the bison. How about the cost of alternative meats? Due to the huge demand for them south of the border, in Asia and in Europe, the price-perpound of alternative meats is more than traditional meats. However, it’s worth incorporating these tasty options into your diet. There is no appreciable shrinkage when cooking alternative meats; you buy a pound, a full pound winds up on your plate. And, that full pound will go further: alternative meats are very satisfying, so you feel full, even after eating less. Using alternative meats is a win, win, win situation. You buy a healthy, tasty product from your neighbour and the money goes back into the local economy. Who could ask for more? RL
Bison meat has less than 20 per cent of the fat, six times the Omega-3 and three times the Omega-6 of traditional meat.
Great teriyaki flavour, great with a crisp tossed salad. Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs. (680 grams) Bison Steak 2 tbsp. (30 ml) soy sauce 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed 1 tsp. (5 ml) ground ginger 2 tbsp (30ml) brown sugar 2 tbsp. (30ml) lemon juice 2 tbsp. (30 ml) salad oil 1 tbsp. (15 ml) instant minced onion 1/4 tsp. (1 ml) pepper Method: Combine soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, lemon juice, oil, onion and pepper. Pour over steak, cover and refrigerate for 6 hours or till next day. Lift steak from marinade and drain briefly (save marinade). Place on barbecue and cook for 6 minutes, turning once and basting with reserve marinade.
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For more details on this and other bison recipes, visit www.ilovebison.com
]
Elk BBQ
(Information courtesy Herman Bulten) Elk may be used in place of any other red meat in your favourite BBQ recipe by following these steps: • With the BBQ on high, sear all sides of the meat (Elk is very lean, so be careful to retain all the juices.) • Cook the meat as you would to obtain medium-rare beef. • If you want further cooking, remove the meat from the heat, wrap it in tinfoil (or bacon) and place it in the “warming” area of your BBQ — it will continue to cook.
D spring 2013 • red deer Living 9
people
Ms. Mogul
Janet Gilmore breaks new ground as a senior executive in plant maintenance and construction By Lee Ann Waines
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f you search Alberta Oilweek’s online site for ‘women,’ you’ll receive back a mere 12 results. It’s not surprising. When you think of the senior executives and managers in the Alberta oil and gas industry, (particularly within central Alberta) you might be hard pressed to identify more than a handful. For Janet Gilmore, director, corporate development & marketing for Quinn Contracting Ltd., the ‘glass ceiling’ is something that she perceives as a challenge — perhaps even an opportunity. Her secret? “I have to have a purpose,” says Gilmore. “Each year, I identify my goals within different categories. Before I know it, it’s like boom! I did that…so I add one more thing.” The strategy has certainly served her well. Now, a top-leader for Quinn (a company that maintains five of the top six producing thermal facilities within the province of Alberta), Gilmore has experience working for multi-million and even multi-billion dollar companies within Canada and the United States. Of course she didn’t start off in the board room. Her first ‘real’ career job was in the advertising department for Pacific Western Airlines where she began as a secretary. “I loved working in the airline business!” she explains.
Janet (left) snowshoeing with friends Robert & Leslee Burton. Photo courtesy Janet Gilmore.
10 red deer Living • spring 2013
“It was an incredible place to learn my marketing craft, and I was also able to ‘try on’ a number of marketing disciplines, from pricing and international budgets to market analysis and marketing communications. I spent over 11 years in that industry and I knew that marketing and communications was the area that I wanted to advance in.” By 1996, she had been promoted to the manager, marketing communications at Canadian Airlines and was coming off of the largest advertising agency review in Canada at the time. She was invited to join TransAlta to help them establish a brand identity and presence as they entered into a deregulated, mass market for the first time. After TransAlta, she became the director, corporate & marketing communications at ENMAX, where she held her first senior executive role and not only had the opportunity to be part of a high-performance team, but also to lead a high-performing team herself. “It was my biggest test of mentoring and inspiring a large group of really talented people.” Afterwards, Gilmore decided to pursue her MBA, majoring in Communications. “There were a number of things that inspired me,” she says. “As a life-long learner, I wanted to take on an extraordinary challenge. As a business woman, I wanted to take one objection off the table with regards to any barrier to career advancement; I also wanted to acquire a business credential that matched my experience.” With her Masters in hand, Gilmore was invited to Texas as the director, brand management at Reliant Energy, which was 40 times the size of ENMAX in terms of revenue and a much tougher environment to operate in. “Internal competition levels were high and fierce, but I learned over the two-year period that I could hold my own in an aggressive work environment, but I certainly preferred the nature of Canadian business!”
people
As luck would have it, there was a Canadian organization waiting eagerly to invite Gilmore on board. “I never thought that a big-city gal like me would end up in Red Deer, but my next professional advancement was my move to Red Deer College as associate vice president, marketing & communications. “I’d have to say my proudest achievement was unveiling the new brand for RDC,” she says. “I was so fortunate to work for a president like Mr. Ron Woodward, and the launch of the new brand was one of his legacy initiatives before his retirement. I wanted it to be great, not only for the institution, but for him — an inspirational leader who was able to motivate me to accomplish great things. I wanted ‘the reveal’ to be worthy of his incredible contributions to the college throughout his tenure.” Shortly after Woodward retired, Gilmore left the post-secondary space and it wasn’t long after that she returned to the energy sector. This time, though, the industry was oil and gas. Now as a senior executive with Quinn, Gilmore is pleased to be working for “another great leader,” where she has an expanded portfolio that includes IT, training and development and, of course, marketing and communications. Are there challenges to being a female in a predominantly male industry located within central Alberta? “It remains a work-in-progress as women achieve equality in the workplace,” she says. “I’m very fortunate to work with a group of men that are intelligent, strong, respectful, and are appreciative of my contributions. I have been told that I can hold my own, but make no mistake, regardless of gender, all teams have to work through challenges and be willing to have open and honest communications.”
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Photo courtesy Photek Photography spring 2013 • red deer Living 11
people
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Janet Gilmore (right) with friend Janet Stephen (left) on a recent dogsledding trip near Banff, Alberta.
“It’s important to keep learning new things and stay current, but you also have to make sure you take time for yourself so you can be energized to help others.”
“In my opinion, this is probably the best time for women to be in oil and gas. The industry needs bright people to fill B & C Janet on a its ranks — at all levels — during the tightest labour market “bucket list” we’ve seen. Women are making inroads in all areas, and trip to Ireland. we’re seeing more and more women entering the trades.” Photos courtesy And she’s happy to offer advice to other women in our Janet Gilmore. community who are similarly interested in advancing their careers. “By all means, stay true to yourself, and ensure that your values are aligned with your boss’ values if you want to be happy and fulfilled in your work. It’s important to keep learning new things and stay current, but you also have to make sure you take time for yourself so you can be energized to help others.” Though she’s called a number of major cities home, including Houston, Calgary and Vancouver, Gilmore calls her transition to the Red Deer community “wonderful.” “I love the people that I have met in my five years here; I love how generously people give to the community; I love the beauty of the landscape and the trails and all of the opportunities for outdoor activity,” she explains. “In a city this size, a person can make a difference and see the benefit of it quite quickly.” It’s something that she herself puts into practice regularly 12 red deer Living • spring 2013
as a member of the Red Deer Airport Authority Board. She has also previously been involved with the Rotary Club of Red Deer and as a Board Member of the United Way — to name a few. “There are so many things that I admire about Janet,” says R.J. Steenstra, CEO of the Red Deer Airport Authority. “She’s a very talented and knowledgeable individual who brings so much to our board. She really has the pulse of the community. She’s also just a really nice and genuine person who I admire greatly and am happy to call a friend.” Many would see a full-time, executive-level career, a commitment to health and fitness and a high-level of community involvement as being a full plate, but Gilmore is getting ready for her next professional challenge: earning a Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching. “I believe that this credential will provide another good base of leadership knowledge and experience as I advance at Quinn and take on more responsibility over the next few years.” And personally? “My goal is always to be happy and healthy and, really, to be the best daughter, sister, friend I can possibly be.” RL
outdoors
Nature abounds
The Kerry Wood Nature Centre is an ecological gem in Red Deer By Jock Mackenzie
Photo by Jock Mackenzie
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ould 85,000 visitors be wrong? Not likely! In 2012, that’s how many people visited the Kerry Wood Nature Centre (KWNC) or took part in one of its programs. “Red Deer has incredible parkland within the city, and we want to help the public to appreciate and preserve these areas,” says Jim Robertson, executive director. “People need to know about threats to nature and how to protect it, so they can be motivated to take individual action.” And that’s what the centre does through its diverse, interactive programs. There’s something for everyone — from tiny tots to seniors and everyone in between. Last year, more than 100 kids from across the province got their World Conservation Badges. On a regular basis, school children as well as youth and church groups, can learn about animal life cycles, animal tracks, seasonal changes, pond dipping, bird identification, pelts, furs and skulls, and also critters that creep and crawl and fly. “Each month we have different programs and activities,” explains Todd Nivens, program coordinator with the centre. “Last year around Valentine’s Day, for example, a group
14 red deer Living • spring 2013
of single adults went owling to listen to the mating calls of the Great Horned Owl.” Throughout the year, families can go on guided nature walks and seniors listen to nature-inspired piano tunes played by Kathryn Huedepohl in the Marjorie Wood Gallery. The diverse programs and opportunities are possible thanks to a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. A crew of 10 full-time equivalent staff, 50 core volunteers and, in 2012, 807 occasional volunteers all worked together to make the centre, as well as its programs, activities and events run smoothly The centre itself, which opened in 1986, is a 930 square metre building set on the western edge of the 118 hectare Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary. This reserve features open grassland, a forest, two lakes, an outer five kilometre gravel trail and a one kilometre paved trail. Within the centre, nature is celebrated in every corner. There’s an extensive reference library with many of Kerry Wood’s books, as well as resources on the natural and cultural history of Alberta. Visitors will also find a store, operated by the Friends of the Kerry Wood Nature Centre, which is a source for things natural. What’s for sale? Among the offerings are: birdseed, birdhouses, feeders and bat houses, nature books, calendars, tea and free trade coffee. The Marjorie Wood Gallery offers an unexpected
outdoors
“Through all our programs, activities and exhibits, we strive to keep the environment and natural spaces top-of-mind for people.” aspect to the nature centre, and this vibrant area provides a variety of artistic work from local and Alberta artists. Themes ranging from the beauty of nature, to environmental issues are captured in photographs, avant-garde works in acrylic, multi-media and travelling exhibits. With the displays changing every six weeks, there is always something new to see. A variety of programs are also offered year-round within the A centre. “Our permanent display shows 50 million years of geographical history, telling how the Red Deer River formed and shaped the land,” says Nivens. “We make this information come alive in the Discovery Room and the Theatre, where we offer preschool programs, movies, lectures and classroom activities.” In addition, groups can request specialized activities like astronomy walks or can take part in programs such as Meet the Critter or the Family Planetarium. The Kerry Wood Nature Centre is fun and it’s educational. “Its purpose, in short, is to
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A The Kerry Wood Nature Centre provides experiences and information on everything environmental. (Courtesy Kerry Wood Nature Centre). B Todd Nivens. C Jim Robertson by a bin of recycled Christmas lights — one of the centre’s successful initiatives. Photos B & C by Jock Mackenzie.
raise the level of natural history knowledge and environmental citizenship in the city and in the region,” says Robertson. “Through all our programs, activities and exhibits, we strive to keep the environment and natural spaces top-of-mind for people.” The KWNC is open year-round, daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and until 8 p.m. in the summer. You can see both the centre and the sanctuary from 67 Street but, to get there, turn north off 55 Street on 45 Avenue. RL
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Who was Kerry Wood? Kerry Wood’s name wasn’t Kerry. Born Edgar Allardyce Wood, he was commonly known as “Nobby,” but chose Kerry as his pen name. This common name came from uncommon inspiration, as Wood was an avid Boy Scout leader, and Kerry was the shortened form of the word knobkerries, a Scouts’ term for a carved walking stick. The legacy of his unconventional name choice lives on today. Throughout his career, Wood wrote over 25 books, and 6,000 short stories. He was a highly-acclaimed author, winning the Order of Canada, two Governor-General’s medals for Juvenile Literature and the first Vicky Metcalf Award. He was involved in various types of media, including newspapers, radio and television. In The Biography of Kerry Wood, Marjorie Wood notes, “He has worn out 19 typewriters in 55 years of continuous writing.” “The Kerry Wood Nature Centre is not named after Kerry Wood because he donated the land or gave money,” explains Jim Robertson, executive director with the centre. “It’s because he modeled the behaviour of a respectful naturalist through his actions and his writing.” RL spring 2013 • red deer Living 15
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. RL
16 red deer Living • spring 2013
GET Connected!
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403.877.2560 • 1.888.932.3101 andrea.rinkel@sourcemediagroup.ca
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Regional spring 2013 • red deer Living 17
culture
Rooted in the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Distinguished Artist Awards come to Red Deer Jack MacDonald performs in the Red Deer By Lani Ledingham Hospice Celebrity Dance Competition, 2012. Photo courtesy Jack MacDonald.
R
l celebrate a ed Artist Awards wil The 2013 Distinguish The City of Red Deer me. Artwork courtesy the s’ Art the in d ote ‘Ro
“We have never hosted this event before, but Red Deer has a strong cultural community where arts and heritage are gaining even more prominence.” 18 red deer Living • spring 2013
ed Deer has been given a special honour in its centennial year, as The City of Red Deer and Red Deer College (RDC) partner to host the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Distinguished Artist Awards Gala on Saturday, June 15. The Awards were established in 2003 as a way to celebrate excellence in the arts and underline the importance of arts and culture in our communities. According to a Statistics Canada survey done in 2009-2010, Alberta ranked 7th in Canada for cultural spending. It’s clear that our province is determined to do something about that rating, as this program alone has awarded over $500,000 to distinguished and emerging artists since 2005. Nominees for the Awards must be Canadian citizens whose achievements or contributions have greatly benefitted the arts in Alberta. If they are not residents of Alberta, nominees must have had significant connections to the province over time. Once nominations are received, an adjudication panel reviews the array of artists and awards two to three winners up to $30,000 each. The recipients also receive a hand-cast medal designed and finished by an Albertan artist. In 2011, The City and RDC put together an extensive proposal, knowing that in 2013 Red Deer would be celebrating 100 years, and RDC would celebrate its 50th anniversary. “Cities interested in hosting the Gala submit proposals for a celebration and the Board of the Foundation chooses one that exemplifies the values of artist excellence and cultural development,” states Donna Cardinal, executive director of the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards Foundation. “One of our selection criteria for host cities is that their proposals raise the profile of the arts in that community, as well as that city’s arts profile provincially.”
culture
Arts The Foundation determined early on that the Awards were to be held in cities outside of urban Calgary or Edmonton in order to draw crowds to the smaller centres — thus highlighting the growing artistic communities within our province. “We have never hosted this event before, but Red Deer has a strong cultural community where arts and heritage are gaining even more prominence,” says Kristina Oberg, culture superintendent for The City of Red Deer. “In 2002, we became one of the first cultural capitals of Canada, and these Awards are adding to that reputation.” The Awards will be surrounded by a city-wide celebration of the arts. For a full week, Red Deer will be alive with events such as an expanded ArtWalk festival, the Distinguished Artist Awards gala, Farmers Day Country Fair at Sunnybrook Farm Museum and various other events. Melody McKnight, chairperson of Red Deer’s Awards Committee, states that the timing of our city being awarded such an honour couldn’t have been better. “This is the centennial year, so the celebration in June will be right in the middle of Red Deer’s own celebrations. This helps us promote the arts in the community, and the full week of events means that people can participate in a variety of activities.” The event is open to the public and will include a gala dinner reception at the Cenovus Centre at RDC, followed by an awards ceremony in the College’s Arts Centre. Tickets for the entire evening are $125, and tickets for the dessert reception and gala are $50. The night is Kristina Oberg and Melody McKnight
The Awards ceremony will take place in Red Deer College’s Arts Centre. Photo courtesy Elaire Frenette expected to sell out quickly, with people from all over Alberta set to gather in Red Deer for this event. Performances by the Red Deer Symphony as well as guest artist, award-winning author, Will Ferguson, are among the highlights of this year’s event. A variety of artists and entertainers will perform throughout the evening, and the College will also have on display their permanent art collection. Previous recipients of the Distinguished Artist Award include poet and novelist, Robert Kroetsch, O.C., as well as an art gallery curator, authors, musicians, architect and playwright. The Awards Programs were established by four philanthropists who defined the original program and raised endowment funds to sustain the Awards. The late Honourable Dr. Lois E. Hole, C.M., A.O.E., Lieutenant Governor of Alberta from 2000-2005, took on patronage of the programs, which continues under His Honour Col. (Ret’d) the Honourable Donald S. Ethell, OC, OMM, AOE, MSC, CD, Lieutenant of Governor of Alberta. More information about the activities within Red Deer is available on The City’s website at www.reddeer.ca. For further information about the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Distinguished Artist Awards program, please visit www.artsawards.ca. RL
Rooted in the Arts The theme for this year’s Awards, Rooted in the Arts, is intended to honour the contributions of the distinguished artists in true Alberta style. The organic imagery of the rooted theme conveys growth and change. Just as the trees in a forest can shape and change an environment, the contribution of arts and cultural activities has helped to shape the landscape of our province. RL
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community
Centennial celebrations 2013 promises to be a great year in Red Deer By Laurette Woodward
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This is a significant year in Red Deer. It’s our 100th birthday, and with that milestone comes the opportunity to consider how our community became what it is today. For Red Deer residents, it’s time to commemorate, celebrate and create. “We are reaping and enjoying benefits of what we’ve preserved and built over the years,” says Red Deer Mayor Morris Flewwelling. “It’s hard not to be kind of boastful about what we have here.”
community
Commemorating Red Deer’s past
Celebrating our community
What we have today had its start long before 1913. First Nations people lived in the area prior to the first European settlement. The first permanent settlement commenced in 1882. The hamlet of Red Deer started with the construction of a railroad in 1890. First a village and then a town, with a population of 323 in 1901, Red Deer had grown to 3,000 people by 1913, the year it was incorporated as a city. “People were moving here because we have some of the best farm land in the world,” says Michael Dawe, curator of history with the Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery. “It was a time with a tremendous sense of hope.” Although there was a lot of Michael Dawe, Red Deer optimism, and a population Museum and Art Gallery boom in the city’s first 12 curator of history years, growth slowed over the next half a century. The discovery of oil in Leduc in 1947 fuelled the community’s next growth spurt. In the 1970s, two world class petroleum plants were built east of Red Deer, and the population grew to 30,000. By 1980, we were at 50,000. And now, in 2013, our population is close to 100,000. What makes Red Deer a great place to live in 2013? According to the City’s research, it’s a combination of factors. The parks and trails, athletic clubs, and cultural opportunities including the symphony, theatre, choral and dance are all highly valued. Also, says Flewwelling, Red Deer has four school systems, post-secondary opportunities, a major hospital and companies that provide significant employment. And, the proximity to major centers is key. “It’s all here,” says Flewwelling. “It’s what people are looking for when they consider if they’ll move here and stay here.”
“It is amazing what has happened here in the last 100 years,” says Sheila Bannerman, chair of the Red Deer Centennial Committee. “We have become a vibrant community and that’s worth celebrating.” The year will be filled with dozens of celebrations. “We’re hoping people will come away with a solid concept of who’s here in Red Deer, why they’re here and why it is good to be here,” says Bannerman. “It’s our intent that these celebrations will create a springboard effect, to help us jump forward into the future knowing who we are.” The three words: commemorate, celebrate and create were chosen to support this intent. “Commemorate where we came from, celebrate who we are and create a vision for the future,” says Bannerman. As part of Red Deer’s year-long celebration, community events are already underway. The year kicked off with a New Year’s Eve celebration at Bower Ponds called “First Night”. The glow sticks and fireworks there were an indication of one of the major themes for the celebrations throughout the year — light. The City of Red Deer is also celebrating and commemorating its centennial year in a number of ways, which includes everything from walking tours downtown, to the celebration of Little Gaetz, the development of a skate park in north Red Deer and a spray park downtown, to name a few. But that’s not all. The City is also organizing events to celebrate its official incorporation day of March 25. All City recreation facilities will have free access for the public on
“We are reaping and enjoying benefits of what we’ve preserved and built over the years. It’s hard not to be kind of boastful about what we have here.”
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Red Deer celebrated its first centennial event with First Night at Bower Ponds. The glow sticks and fireworks there were an indication of one of the major themes for the celebrations throughout the year — light. Photos courtesy Larry Pimm
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community
Red Deer Centennial Committee chair, Sheila Bannerman Photo by Laurette Woodward
Sunday, March 24. Other celebrations include the placing of a time capsule in City Hall Park and a Centennial meeting of council on March 25. The next major community event is “Homecoming weekend” on June 29 and 30. It will include a pancake breakfast, the dedication of a centennial grove and a barbecue. One of the most exciting events that weekend will also emphasize the theme of light, as well as our connection to the environment. “The River of Light” has been described by Bannerman as, “a parade on the Red Deer River with floating lights. It’s pretty exciting.” Recycled canola oil barrels, will be lit with LED lights. “They are radiant and very beautiful. At nighttime on the Red Deer River, they will look spectacular.” Following the event, the containers will be converted into rain barrels. The public is invited to purchase these barrels, which are available for sale immediately and can be picked up after the event. “The more we sell the better,” says Bannerman. “The scale of the event is dependent on how many barrels are purchased.” An international artist called “Creatmosphere” has been contracted to create several installations around the city in locations where there is running or river water. “They’ll be highly interactive,” says Bannerman. “People will be able to touch and see, and hopefully learn more about
“Commemorate where we came from, celebrate who we are and create a vision for the future.” Red Deer.” Students from Red Deer College — in art, engineering and film — will be an integral part of the project. The event runs for a week, culminating June 30. After homecoming, the community-wide events will continue including a barn dance, held in the streets of Red Deer on July 16, the evening before the Westerner Days parade. An old fashioned fall fair will be held on September 21 at Fort Normandeau, and the celebrations will conclude in December at City Hall Park. This final event is called “Fire and Ice” and will include a lantern parade, using lanterns created by people throughout the year.
Creating a prosperous future As we enjoy this important year, it is natural to begin looking to the future and, according to Mayor Flewwelling, there is a lot to anticipate.
Red Deer is incorporated as a city, population 3,000. The economic driver was agricultue; other industries included a lumber mill, two brickyards and a stone quarry
World War II: a large military training camp was established north of 55 St. and military personnel flooded into central Alberta during this time
1913
19391945
Red Deer, ca. 1891
Discovery of oil in Leduc – impact soon rippled to Red Deer
1947 Ross Street, 1950
A20 military training camp, 1942
18801891 Townsite established on CalgaryEdmonton railway
1894
1901
19141918
Red Deer becomes a village
Red Deer becomes a town, population 323
First World War: Red Deer lost 118 men to war
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1970 In two decades, population grew to 30,000
Happy 100th birthdays to Sylvan Lake, Delburne and Red Deer He says there are predictions that Red Deer could become one of the most prosperous cities in the world. “With our economic base and location in the crossroads of north and south, as well as east and west, we are a transportation and retail / wholesale trade hub. Businesses that situate themselves in Red Deer do very well,” he says. “Our location on the CalgaryEdmonton corridor, or the ‘Red Deer Corridor’ as I like to call it, is ideal.” Red Deer Mayor Morris Flewelling Photo by Laurette Woodward In addition, some key components will ensure Red Deer continues to be a great place for people to live. “The oil and gas sector is becoming increasingly innovative,” says Flewwelling. “They are creating solutions.” Also, says the mayor, the Red Deer River is critical. “It’s one of the cleanest, healthiest and least committed rivers in Alberta.” As transportation along the Calgary-Edmonton corridor continues to develop, it is possible one day there could be a high speed rail line, making Red Deer a bedroom community for Alberta’s major centers. “We’ll be Canmore north for Calgary,” says Flewwelling. Also in Red Deer’s future is the development of the Riverlands, the old city yards in downtown Red Deer. “We have a very special opportunity there,” says Flewwelling. “It’s a largely undeveloped site in a prime location close to downtown and on the river.” “2013 is an exciting year to be in Red Deer,” says Mayor Flewwelling, “and it’s going to continue to be an exciting place to live in the future.” RL
The communities of Sylvan Lake and Delburne are also celebrating their centennials in 2013. Fun activities are being planned in all three communities. Sylvan Lake Centennial Events June 8 – Centennial Civic Ceremony with live music & drama provided by HJ Cody High School June 12 – Re-dedication of Centennial Park June 14 – 16 – “1913 days” – An annual event with more fun events including: 1913 Days parade and activities, “Dance of the Century” and fireworks June 14 – Chamber of Commerce meet and greet September 8 – Community picnic by the lake Annual events with a Centennial twist include: pond hockey, 1913 days, Canada Day, Eco Loco, Fall Fest, Spooktacular, Santa Claus Parade and Breakfast with Santa. For more information: www.sylvanlake.ca Delburne Centennial Events April 13 – Cumberland Heritage plays June 15 – Village-wide garage sale and car show June 29 – July 1 Homecoming weekend. Country fair and exhibition, family activities, sheep herding, family exhibits, baseball tournament, horse working demonstration, and catered suppers. Entertainment from Emerson Drive on Saturday and The Emeralds on Sunday. There are also school reunions (classes of 1958 – 2008) scheduled for this weekend. September 28 & 29 – Heritage Days. For more information go to Facebook and search: Delburne Centennial
Red Deer Centennial Events
Population almost 100,000 – in the last three decades, community has become increasingly diverse
Population reaches 50,000
1980
2013 Aerial view of Red Deer, 2011. Photo courtesy The City of Red Deer
City Hall Park, 1970
Timeline photos courtesy Red Deer & District Archives
March 24 – Celebration of Red Deer’s incorporation – The City of Red Deer. Free admission to Collicutt Centre, G.H. Dawe Recreation Centre, Recreation Centre and Michener Centre; additional entertainment between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. March 25 – Centennial meeting of Council March 25 – Placement of time capsule in City Hall Park, visit: www.reddeer.ca for more information April 14 – Official Opening of Remarkable Red Deer – Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery June 29 & 30 – Homecoming event – Pancake breakfast, centennial tree grove dedication, “River of Light” parade on the Red Deer River July 16 – Family street dance September 21 – Old fashioned fall festival – Fort Normandeau December 12 – “Fire and Ice” closing event – City Hall Park There are many other exciting events in Red Deer throughout the year, such as a Centennial Cake competition, Tree House Youth Theatre performances, a community campfire, refugee camp in the city, cemetery tours at Halloween, and new exhibits at the Museum and the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame. Visit www.reddeer2013.ca for complete information, or to volunteer or sponsor an event.
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feature
A new museum experience Anticipating the MAG’s new permanent history exhibit By Jason Brink
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f ever you needed a reason to visit the Red Deer Museum & Art Gallery (MAG), you’re about to have many. Marking 2013 as Red Deer’s centennial year, the MAG and Red Deer and District Archives are putting the finishing touches on a state-of-the-art Permanent History Exhibition that will celebrate the history of Red Deer and area in ways sure to captivate any and all visitors. With doors scheduled to swing open March 25, the 1,460-square-metre exhibition will serve as a veritable vault of awe, knowledge and interactivity. The permanent history exhibit will showcase our diverse heritage by blending dynamic multimedia technology with historical artifacts and rare archival material to tell the stories of ordinary people who struggled and persevered to build the heart of the parkland into what it is today. The budget for the History Project is $1.5 million dollars, with The City of Red Deer committing $1 million and the Red Deer and District Museum Society raising the additional $500,000 to complete the project and maintain the highly technical
elements over the next 10 years. Approximately 60 per cent of the MAG has been dedicated to the new permanent exhibit, while two temporary galleries will feature continually changing exhibits separately. Putting the ‘muse’ in museum is the MAG’s executive director, Lorna Johnson. Backed by Michael Dawe, the MAG’s curator of history, and a full complement of dedicated staff, she and the rest of the team have been busy gathering archival photos and dusting off countless artifacts from the museum’s collection that have been waiting patiently for their moment in the spotlight.
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Lorna Johnson is ready to welcome visitors to the new Permanent History Exhibit, opening March 25. (Photo by Jason Brink)
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feature
A A & B Artist renderings of the new exhibit. (Courtesy MAG) C Valerie Miller, collections coordinator, holds an original show poster from the Martin School of Dancing. D Lorna Johnson and Valerie Miller hold up the WWI uniform of Hugh McKay. Photos C & D by Jason Brink
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“We’re in full-flight production for the exhibits,” beams Johnson. “We started thinking about it five years ago, but it started in earnest November of 2011, when City Council approved the funding, so we’ve been in overdrive for the past year.” Designed by the award-winning firm of Reich & Petch, Design International, with all exhibit components built by Quebec company, Expographiq, the exhibit is in its final countdown. Staff are preparing display case layouts for all of the artifacts, many of which are new acquisitions donated by enthusiastic community members, such as Red Deer College, who contributed a costume and rendering for the textile and clothing section of the exhibit. Planned features include costumed interpreters as facilitators and a plinth that goes along the floor throughout the exhibition with a basket of activities in each area that classes of students as well as parents and children can work at together. “What the exhibition does is it gives us an anchor for all of our programming,” says Johnson. “It gives us a basic historical story that we can tell and each component has a silhouette of a person from history who tells a different part of that story.” With three storytellers in each section, don’t be surprised if Leonard Gaetz approaches you to pitch why you should buy land and settle here, or John T. Moore tells you why Red Deer should be the capital of Alberta or Métis Roderick McKenzie explains
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…don’t be surprised if Leonard Gaetz approaches you to pitch why you should buy land and settle here… how he petitioned the federal government for 14 years to hear his case regarding the theft of his land. Peppered throughout the exhibit are representations of Red Deer’s historical buildings, some long gone and some still standing. Amongst these is the Capitol Theatre, the Greene Block showcasing many of the original commercial signs in the museum’s collection and the Red Deer train station featuring all of the sounds travelers would have heard upon first arriving in Red Deer. Stevenson Hall Block, Castle School and Michener Centre are also featured prominently. The Club Café space will have a replica coloured tile floor and booths just like the original, plus a huge walled display case of community sports and arts memorabilia. The highlight of the café will undoubtedly be the 1950s reproduction Wurlitzer jukebox designed to spin CD recordings of the past century. Johnson has been corresponding with “the Old Disc Jockey” at CKUA to help her compile lists of hit tunes dating all the way back to 1909. The Capitol Theatre section of the exhibit, decked out with modern technology in the form of SMART Boards coolly juxtaposed with original old wooden flip seats from the Innisfail theatre, offers unprecedented programming opportunities. “It’s completely programmable,” says Johnson. “We can book a class for seniors, students or anybody and present special programs or
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Doors open March 25, and the MAG is offering free admission for the first three months, encouraging people to get acquainted with the new space. connect to another museum half way around the world if we want to.” One of the driving motivations behind the permanent history exhibit is to establish the MAG as a hub to encourage historical exploration of the greater Red Deer area. In the works are plans to set up signage with QR codes for walking tours throughout the city so that those wanting to visit many of the sites featured in the exhibit can readily access information specific to these locations on their smart phones. Moving forward, Johnson is also looking at social media as a programming vehicle. Doors open March 25, and the MAG is offering free admission for the first three months, encouraging people to get acquainted with the new space. A grand opening is planned for the public on April 14, featuring a full line-up of entertainers. Visit the MAG website at www.reddeermuseum.com for details. RL
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Reel Movie Mondays Film screenings offer a unique movie experience What started out 11 years ago as one man’s desire to see better movies has turned into a cinematic phenomenon that has satisfied a loyal legion of Red Deer movie fans hungry for films beyond the typical Hollywood fare. Reel Movie Mondays (RMM) is a Red Deer film group first put together by James Wilson of the Red Deer College Motion Picture Arts department and co-organized by Rod Trentham of the Red Deer Museum & Art Gallery, along with a handful of passionate volunteers. The group has consistently brought in award-winning international and Canadian films that would otherwise never find their way to central Alberta. Wilson attributes the enormous success of RMM to its audiences. “Some of our members show up to a film, buy their tickets and then ask what the film is — they trust us so blindly to bring in interesting films.” The community vibe at the screenings adds to the appeal. Many people go for dinner with friends before the films or discuss the films afterwards over coffee. On many occasions, RMM audiences stand around talking about the films long after the credits have rolled. To experience Reel Movie Mondays yourself and to see what all the fuss is about, visit the website for upcoming films: www.reelmoviemondays.ca. Tickets are available in advance at the Red Deer MAG or at the door at the group’s current venue, Galaxy Theatre. Members pay $8 for single tickets, non-members pay $10.
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entertainment
Year After By Leslie Greentree What leads a group of young Red Deer theatre professionals to decide to write and produce a full-length feature film, and — just to make the challenge bigger — to make it a musical? For Matt Grue and Stephanie Ridge, the journey began in 2009 as they were planning to mount a musical on the Ignition Theatre stage. “We were going to do The Last Five Years, a two-person musical, but we would have had to go through the musician’s union and it would have tripled our budget,” says Grue. “Our other option was to do pre-recorded tracks, and I don’t like that in theatre. We’d talked about writing a musical before, but we had no incentive or deadline. Now we did.” And so the pair decided to write their own musical, an exploration of the relationships and struggles of a group of people in their late twenties; Year After Year hit the stage in 2010 and was received Matt Grue and Stephanie Ridge enthusiastically by audiences Photo by Tanya Lee and reviewers, but Grue and 30 red deer Living • spring 2013
Ridge weren’t fully satisfied with it. “The songs are all explorations of sub-text, and it’s hard to communicate that on a single stage,” Grue says. “Then Don Armstrong, co-chair of the motion picture arts (MPA) program at Red Deer College, told us it would make a great film.” That’s when Grue and Ridge brought film-maker Dustin Clark on board; Clark had acted in the stage version and was intimately familiar with the project and the players. All three are graduates of the RDC theatre studies and MPA programs, and they’ve cut their teeth on numerous theatre productions and short films over the years. They lined up a talented cast and crew — all with Red Deer roots — took deep breaths and went for it. Grue and Clark wrote the screenplay, Clark directed, Grue produced, and Ridge acted as production manager and script supervisor. The film was co-produced by the Matchbox Theatre Foundation. Ridge had co-written lyrics with Spenser Pasman, another RDC alumni from the music program who acted in the stage version, and they teamed up with
entertainment
Above: On set for filming of Year After Year
Year former Red Deerian Curtis Labelle, who wrote the music and served as vocal coach for the stage and film work. Don Armstrong joined them for the film, bringing his experience with over 1,000 Red Deer productions to his role as director of photography. Dustin Clark “We went through different scenarios to figure out the scope,” Grue says. “We could pitch a version that would cost six million dollars and maybe have to sacrifice creativity, or make it on a budget of $25,000 plus $175,000 gifts in kind and keep creative control.” Rather than shop the screenplay, hope for government grants or give up creative control in exchange for funding, they opted to produce the film themselves through fundraising. “The way we did it let us practice and mess up without consequences,” Grue says.
Photos courtesy Matt Grue, Stephanie Ridge & Dustin Clark
Red Deer’s musical feature film
The film stars six young actors with impressive credentials, many of whom have appeared on a number of Red Deer stages as well as elsewhere in the province and beyond: Joel Crichton, Sarah Hemphill, Matthew Thiel, Elena Porter, Christopher W. Cook, Andrew McKenzie and Zina Lee. “All the actors and crew worked for free,” Grue says. “RDC offered the use of facilities and resources. They’ve always been very supportive of alumni.” Interestingly, the actors recorded their songs in one day, setting the tone for key moments in the movie months before shooting began. This was necessary in order for Clark to arrange the pieces for a 16-piece orchestra. Thanks to technology and Clark’s impressive musical versatility, he played all the instruments for every song. “All the songs were based around the piano so I would look at the sheet music then play the piano track,” Clark says. “Then I’d edit all night until it was perfect, then add drums, bass, strings and bells. If the song didn’t need piano, I would go back and remove it again afterward.” Clark’s keyboard has software that makes it sound like a Steinway, and, unlike older technology, drums are now actual recordings of drums. “I use relatively crappy equipment because I’m not rich, but if you know how to use it you can accomplish
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entertainment
Filming scenes from Year After Year Photos courtesy Matt Grue, Stephanie Ridge & Dustin Clark
more than those with better technology,” he says. “Technology has advanced so much that, in my apartment, I can use the same techniques that Hollywood is using, for the music and the film editing.” Along with their decision to make the movie on their terms came the decision to shoot as much of it in Red Deer as possible. “We filmed all over downtown, and in a condo in Checkmate Court,” Grue says. “We filmed in Earl’s two nights in a row from 11 p.m. to seven a.m. — they kept staff there for background, all for no charge.” They filmed on a rooftop downtown, at the FasGas on Ross Street, in a jewellery store in Parkland Mall during business hours — again, with security provided at no cost — and in the basement of the Scott Block. Out of town, the cast and crew were welcomed on an Edmonton LRT platform and behind security at Edmonton International Airport. Clark, who lives in Vancouver now, says they were amazed at the support. “You can’t go into a restaurant in Vancouver and ask to film there. Here, everyone kept saying yes,” he says. “We had nothing to offer them, but they were all sold on the story and the spirit of the project. We had plans B, C and D and we never had to go to them. I don’t think this would ever happen anywhere else.” Between cast, crew and extras, more than 300 people participated in the project. The movie is set in a city like New York, so Clark will be changing the horizon a lot, adding cityscapes and other elements, but Red Deerians will recognize plenty of local landmarks. The polished trailer, which Grue says has already been viewed by twice as many people as those who saw the original musical in the theatre, 32 red deer Living • spring 2013
“It’s been a crazy and ambitious project, and a lot of work, but I’m glad we did it.” features an endearingly familiar Ross Street, complete with its trademark flower baskets. “There were a lot of frustrating moments, but filming the song Alive in the basement of the Scott Block was amazing,” says Ridge, who, together with Grue, ran Ignition Theatre for eight years. “It’s the crux song, a combination of depression and anxiety, and on film we were able to cut to inside the character’s mind. You can’t do that on stage.” Beyond writing the lyrics, Ridge’s work was behind the scenes, organizing, scheduling, keeping track of all the people and all the details. She describes how they filmed 31 days straight, up at six a.m. and in bed at midnight if they were lucky. And that doesn’t count the many months of writing and preparation beforehand and the continuing work to finalize film edits now that the actors have gone home. “It’s been a crazy and ambitious project, and a lot of work, but I’m glad we did it. No one in Red Deer has done a full length film outside the RDC MPA program, never mind a musical.” And now, as the edits of Year After Year near completion, Grue, Clark and Ridge prepare to submit to film festivals, and to plan the anxiously-awaited Red Deer premiere. “The stakes feel high,” laughs Grue. “Half the world expects us to fail, and the other half has outrageously high expectations.” To view the trailer or for more information, visit www.yearafteryearmusical.com. RL
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health and wellness with Susan Cossi
Medicinal gardens Use ancient herbs for modern healing
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his spring, I passionately urge you to plan to plant medicinal herbs and edibles for the coming year, as you’ll discover your very own free pharmacy. It is easy and fun, and it feels empowering to know that you can snip, trim and harvest the ingredients to make your very own healing remedies. Plus, growing your own herbs will save you money. These types of medicinal gardens were inspired by the great physicians of Ancient Greece, including Hippocrates, Galen, Theophrastus and Dioscorides. Medicinal gardens were once called spiritual gardens but, these days, they are better known as apothecaries’ gardens. I study their discoveries and implement some of the apothecary remedies from writings dated back some 5,000 years ago. You can grow successful gardens either from seed or by planting seedlings, but you’ll need to invest in grow lights, as your plants will need 14 to 16 hours of this artificial light daily. Buy inexpensive, full-spectrum light bulbs, sold at home improvement stores. Additionally, your plants will grow best if the daytime indoor temperature is between 21 and 24 degrees Celsius, and the nighttime temperature is around five degrees cooler. Once my seedlings are planted in trays, I place these on top of the dryer every time I use it. This warms the bottom of the tray,
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Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, and apothecaries were recognized as the pharmacists of the 16th century. and I find it speeds up the germination process; you could also buy a heat mat to achieve the same effect. If you really want to grow the very best herbs, check the optimal pH level of the soil before you plant. Generally, I aim for a pH around six and have had great success. Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, and apothecaries were recognized as the pharmacists of the 16th century. Incorporate their time-tested discoveries into your life and create your own medicinal garden.
health and wellness
Medicinal plants for the red deer area Ocimum basilicum (Basil) – Antidepressant, antiseptic, relieves insect bites when fresh leaves are rubbed on the skin.Easy to start from seed indoors; I have found basil does best planted next to tomatoes. Calendula officinalis (Calendula) – Makes soothing creams and oils; this plant possesses anti-inflammatory, anti fungal properties and also protects tomatoes. Easy to start from seed. Chamaemelum nobile (Chamomile) – Anti-inflammatory, soothes irritated skin, arthritis, helps stomach disorders. You can scatter seeds directly in the garden, a tonic for all other plants. Foeniculum officinalis (Fennel) – Indigestion, mouthwashes, increases breast milk in nursing mothers, reduces appetite. You can plant directly in the garden, likes moisture, invasive. Salvia officinalis (Sage) – Baldness, expels worms, heals mouth and gum infections, sex depressant, improves memory. I find this slow growing, so I purchase small plants. Lavendula officinalis (Lavender) – Tension headaches, anxiety and is an antiseptic. Slow growing, purchase plants. Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) – Colds, depression, high blood pressure gallbladder, heart tonic, nervous disorders, joint inflammation Slow growing, so purchase plants; does not require a lot of water. Thymus vulgaris (Thyme sweet) – Sore throats, chest infections, rheumatic pain and is a strong antiseptic. Easy to start from seed; does not require a lot of water.
Origanum (Oregano) - Arthritis, painful menstruation and relieves anxiety. Start from seed. Allium sativum (Garlic) – Anemia, anti-fungus, good for warding off colds. Plant directly in ground. Hypericum perforatum (St Johns Wort) – Anxiety, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, nervous tension and muscular pain.Purchase small plants. Mentha piperita (Peppermint) – Asthma, bronchitis, nausea, itchy skin, encourages menstrual regularity, relieves hot flashes. Purchase one small plant: a prolific grower, likes shade and water. Other plants I have found easy to grow in the area include: borage, coriander, chives, dill, lemon balm, marjoram, parsley, rose sunflower, stevia and tarragon. Embrace the weeds that appear also, most of them are medicinal, like the dandelion. Making tea Use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs or 3 teaspoons of fresh herbs to one cup of boiling water. Step for 3 minutes and remove the herbs. RL
Susan Cossi holds a Clinical Diploma in Aromatherapy and is a recognized teacher of The International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists. She has been an International 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 recognized by IFPA. For more information visit www.holisticteachings.com
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Cottonwood Meadows Find your place in this growing community
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great neighbourhood, just like a home, begins with a good plan and relies on a solid foundation for stability and growth. Cottonwood Meadows in Blackfalds is a community built on these important elements, as it has a thoughtful mix of attractive residential, park and commercial areas constructed by first-class builders. This new and growing subdivision also has the subtle, unseen components that make a community special, including the opportunity to develop a sense of place as you connect with your neighbours. “Connections are so important to help people feel like they’re part of a neighbourhood,” says Trent Harder, VP of sales with Cottonwood Meadows. “When you can walk to the store or take your child to school or go to the park, you start to meet your neighbours and develop that sense of community. Cottonwood Meadows was designed with all of these aspects in mind.” The amenities and opportunities for connections that are being created in Cottonwood Meadows fit perfectly with the overall
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growth and development of Blackfalds. “The town is growing and evolving into a vibrant, young community,” says Harder. “Home buyers are increasingly looking to Blackfalds as a destination, not a stepping stone in home ownership. It’s rapidly becoming one of those unique settings where people can build their dreams and discover a community that delivers a permanent sense of belonging.” In Cottonwood Meadows, the amenities, opportunities and affordability make it enticing to put down some roots. The large lot sizes and variety of housing choices make it possible to get your long-term home now, without being mortgage-poor. “Cottonwood Meadows really has it all, as it’s conveniently-located and affordable, with tons of opportunities,” Harder says. “When people come here, they’ll be able to stay and grow and become part of the fabric of this great community.” n For complete information on Cottonwood Meadows, visit: www.cottonwoodmeadows.ca or call 403-358-5598.
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a slice of life with Treena Mielke
Colour me happy Finding joy in Easter eggs and everything in between
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inter is slowly giving way to the much kinder, gentler season of spring that will, before we know it, slowly appear before our eyes as if an unseen hand is moving a giant paintbrush filled with soft pastels over the stark white walls of the world in which we live. Easter is part of this new and colourful world, bringing with it the seeds of hope and joy and all kinds of reasons just to be glad to be here, to feel the warmth of sunshine on our skin and to know that the universe is unfolding as it should. At Easter, as in other holidays of great importance, I have always been a stickler for tradition. And, though it was long ago and far away, I remember two traditions our family always adhered to when the kids were small — even though life, with predictable unpredictability, tossed obstacles in the way. In those peanut butter and jam sandwich days where Fred Flintstone ruled the lunch hour and a little black dog raced around in circles protecting us all and the front entry way was an obstacle course filled with carelessly tossed running shoes, ball gloves and back packs, we had two Easter traditions that we never broke. I would decorate the Easter eggs with the kids and my husband, (aka Peter Rabbit) would do the Easter egg hunt. I, of course, being a person of great, if unrealistic expectations, had visions every year of my children and I turning humble white or brown eggs into objects of beauty. But, when I flip back through the tattered pages of memories in my mind, I realize now the beauty created on those long ago Easters had
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nothing to do with man-made perfection created by paintbrushes painstakingly etching out intricate designs. And, I see, once again, crystal clear and perfect, three kids crowded around a kitchen table, turning plain unadorned eggs quickly into a blurry kaleidoscope of mauves and blues and yellows using nothing more than Q-tips, food colouring and huge imaginations that played and danced with the famous bunny, himself. “Perfect,” I would murmur as they held up the finished product for me to admire before wandering away to play. The second tradition — the Easter egg hunt — has now been passed on to the next generation, living proof that Peter Rabbit has never aged or developed arthritis and is still hopping about magically. In days of yore, the lovable bunny, to successfully carry out the hunt, had to become adept with pen and paper as well as agility, because he had to hop all over the house leaving clues to where the treasure was to be found. And so it came to be that kitchen appliances and broom closets and linen closets became magical hiding spots. Through it all, the children learned that it truly is the joy of the journey, not the destination, that somehow makes the hunt all worthwhile. I came upon a discarded Easter basket the other day. It was empty, of course, just filled with some of that grass stuff that gets everywhere, even defying the most persistent of vacuums and brooms. But, as I held it, the harsh, white walls of my wintry world seemed to fade away to once again be replaced with a dancing rainbow of colours. And I was reminded of the importance of the journey, not the destination and those little unexpected treasures we find along the way. Treasurers to be found each and every day — even when we’re not even looking! RL
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