summer 2015 • red deer Living 1
2 red deer Living • summer 2015
summer 2015 • red deer Living 3
letters
stay-cation contest winner Congratulations to Michelle Studer, winner of the Radisson Red Deer Stay-cation contest! Radisson Red Deer is pleased to present Michelle with the following prize package ($300 value): • One night stay in an exclusive Jacuzzi Suite • A bottle of champagne, served in the room • A romantic dinner for two in the Radisson restaurant, featuring a warm atmosphere and delicious comfort food Michelle Weber (left) of the Radisson Red Deer presents Michelle Studer with her Stay-cation prize. As part of the contest submission process, the public was asked to submit a letter of 100 words or less, describing what they love best about Red Deer. Studer, the contest winner, submitted her letter as follows (right).
4
red deer Living • summer 2015
“Red Deer has always been cherished in our family. I was born here and ev en when I moved away for nine years, I missed it every day. My husband and I we re married in the Pioneer Lodge, an d two of my thre e children were born in Red De er.
My great grandf ather was the first Fire Ch ief in Red Deer ; and I value havin g the family connectedness to this beautif ul city. I love the trails, the river, Bower Ponds, He ritage Ranch an d the view of the Rocky Mountain s. My city has an exquisite blend of history and beau ty that I love.”
contents summer 2015
VOL 5 • ISS 22
departments 7
food | A taste of home Two Red Deer restaurants are bringing local food back in a big way
10 People | Farther, faster Tammy Cunnington strives for excellence at international competitions 13 Culture | The Vikings are coming! Take cover at the Danish Canadian National Museum
7 24
26
15 Community | Red Deer Experience Awards and training celebrate the hospitality and tourism industry 18 Outdoors | Toes in the sand A snapshot of Central Alberta beaches to enjoy this summer 21 Feature | Fine dining for the greater good A Flewwelling tradition that has spanned almost 30 years
18
24 entertainment | Fun chasers Family friendly festivities abound this summer 26 Feature | Everyone’s a winner Central Alberta home builders honoured at Awards of Excellence 29 Health and Wellness | Keep good vision in sight Regular eye care is essential for children of any age
13 10
items 4 Letters 6 Editor’s message 30 You Said It
Cover photo courtesy Harvey Brink
summer 2015 • red deer Living 5
editor’s message
Little pieces creating a beautiful picture
PUBLISHER |
Source Media Group
info@sourcemediagroup.ca A ss o c ia t e P U B L I S H E R |
It recently occurred to me that, when you consider Red Deer Living as a whole, the issues of the magazine create a type of photo mosaic. I must admit, though, that I thought there was a cooler term for this concept, but my research has come up empty. Uncool name aside, the result of a photo mosaic is quite compelling, with countless small, complete, distinct images being carefully placed together to create a large and beautiful picture that’s something all its own. Each article in the magazine is like a single picture, and now that we’ve produced 22 issues and hundreds of articles, the larger image that’s being created is quite stunning.
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
Dave Macaulay dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca
Megan Sereda
In this issue of Red Deer Living, we’ll add some more
megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca
pictures to the mosaic, starting with “A taste of home,”
pr o d u c t i o n a d m i n is t ra t o r |
where you’ll learn about the mouth-watering dishes
Colleen Leier
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca
created at local restaurants, using local food. Next, Tammy Cunnington shares her experiences as a para athlete competing on the world stage. Her incredible determination and spirit has led her to compete internationally for over 20 years, in various sports, which is an almost unheard-of feat. Then, it’s time to take cover because “the Vikings are coming!” At the annual Viking Days celebration, you’ll see everything authentically Viking with battles galore — minus the blood and death, of course. From the Scandinavian experience, we move on to Red Deer experiences and the annual Tourism Red Deer awards that celebrate the service industry professionals that make it all possible.
E D I TO R I A L
Jennifer Blair, Jason Brink, Leslie Greentree, Jock Mackenzie, Shae Paterson, Laurette Woodward, Jim Zang P H OTO G R A P H Y
Jennifer Blair, Harvey Brink, Leslie Greentree, Tanya Lee, Jock Mackenzie, Shelley Newman, Shae Paterson, Laurette Woodward A d v er t isi n g
advertising@sourcemediagroup.ca A CCO U NT I N G
Norma Robertson
Central Alberta beaches are sure to be a fun destination this summer, and “Toes in the sand” looks at a few hotspot destinations to enjoy. Plus, you’ll get leads to other beach destinations and places to cool off in the city. Sticking with cool things to do in the city, you’ll learn about a different kind of fundraiser next. Morris and Hazel Flewwelling frequently host dinner parties to support local charities — uncommonly exquisite experiences that display careful attention to every detail. Fun, family friendly experiences are described in “Fun chasers,” which looks at three summertime events. These are three out of many, so you’ll get links with tips for more festivals of fun. Next, excellence in the home building industry is celebrated in “Everyone’s a winner,” which looks at the recent housing awards. In the Health article, you’ll read about eye care for children, including what to look for at home and what your optometrist will look for at annual checkups. Finally, we round out the magazine with “You Said It,” a new feature where Red Deerians provide their answers to fun questions. Be sure to check it out to see if there’s anyone you know! That’s the additions to our photo mosaic this time around. All of us here at Red Deer Living wish you a safe and happy summer. And, as you’re out taking your own pictures and creating your own mosaics, thanks for letting us be part of the journey.
@RedDeerLiving 6 red deer Living • summer 2015
RedDeerLiving
accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY
Canada Post, Media Classified, Source Media Group P R I N T E D I N C A N A DA
© 2015 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from 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 Contact: Source Media Group, 207, 5809 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2H 0J9. Tel 403.532.3101, Fax 403.532.3109, Toll free 1.888.932.3101. www.sourcemediagroup.ca
food
Two red Deer restaurants are bringing local food back in a big way
taSte HOME
A
of
O
Joel martens
Chef michael ubbing
n the surface, Westlake Grill may seem like your typical steakhouse. Hidden away in the heart of Heritage Ranch, the restaurant is unpretentious — almost rustic — with its wood-panelled walls, wood-burning fireplace and wooded view of the Red Deer River. And its delicious dishes are just as unpretentious — thanks, in no small part, to the local foods on the menu. “It takes us back to what we traditionally had when we were kids on the farm,” says Joel Martens, owner of Heritage Ranch. “Everything came from the garden, and it was about as close to from farm to plate as you can get. That, for me, is the vision for Westlake Grill.” When Westlake Grill reopened in 2013 after substantial renovations, Martens knew it was
Story and photos by Jennifer Blair
time to “rethink what we’re doing.” And a big part of that was a shift to local foods. “We saw the demand was there,” says Martens. “When we put local things on the menu, people were really interested in that and intrigued by it.” Today, up to 85 per cent of Westlake Grill’s menu items are locally produced, depending on the season. While the menu often features exotic fare like wild boar and kangaroo, its staples — beef, bison, and chicken — are produced locally, as are its seasonal fruits and vegetables when possible. “There are dramatic taste differences in local foods, and there’s definitely less processing behind it,” says Westlake Grill’s Executive Chef, Michael Ubbing. “I have personal relationships with the farmers. I know their names. I know the names of their animals. I go to their farms. I know that everything is legitimate.” “A carrot doesn’t taste like a carrot unless you
»
Prime rib with smoky au jus and baby romaine salad at Westlake Grill.
summer 2015 • red deer Living
7
food Pancetta chicken at Boulevard Restaurant & Lounge.
Photo courtesy Boulevard Restaurant & Lounge
know where that carrot came from.” True to his word, Chef Ubbing’s carrots taste like they came straight from the garden. But it’s his deft handling of a juicy, flavourful prime rib, served with smoky au jus, that shows why Westlake Grill is famous for its steaks. Accompanied by an oversized slice of homemade garlic bread and Red Deer’s best Caesar salad, Westlake Grill’s specialof-the-day came served up on a slate tile — a nice touch that perfectly captures the ‘little bit country, little bit classy’ atmosphere at Westlake Grill. For Martens, Westlake Grill has been a return to his rural roots — one that allows him to support local farmers by supporting local foods. “We’re small, so we appreciate when people support local business,” he says, “and I think we, in turn, owe it to our local farmers as well.” “We’re watching stuff coming in from Mexico and saying, ‘But I know a guy who grows that down the road.’ That doesn’t seem very efficient, environmentally friendly, or good for the local economy,” says Chef Ubbing. “By supporting local foods, we’re keeping money in the local economy. It’s not only good for local producers and restaurants; it’s good for Red Deerians too.”
Boulevard Restaurant & Lounge
Chef Emmanuel David and Shazma Charania.
Down the QE2 is another restaurant that, at first glance, seems to have little in common with Westlake Grill. Located in the Holiday Inn on Gasoline Alley, Boulevard Restaurant & Lounge has a trendy vibe, with contemporary décor and a menu to match. But one thing Boulevard and Westlake Grill do share is their philosophy about local foods. “Our main focus is on simple, good food using as much local product as possible,” says Boulevard’s Executive Chef Emmanuel David. During peak seasons, over a quarter of Boulevard’s menu items are made from local foods — everything from Sylvan Star gouda from Sylvan Lake, pork raised in Innisfail and berries grown in Ponoka.
8 red deer Living • summer 2015
Like Chef Ubbing, Chef David has built a strong relationship with Central Alberta farmers — and it shows in his ever-changing menu. “You can change your menu very often when you’re using local foods,” says Chef David. “I visit the farms, and I know how the food is produced. It’s a win-win situation for us and the farmers.” It’s a win for Boulevard’s diners, too. “These locally produced foods just taste better,” says Chef David. “Fresh tomatoes grown locally, for instance, really taste better. The taste is not masked by anything.” He’s right, of course: Boulevard’s pancetta chicken seems almost decadent, with its melt-in-your-mouth braised chicken breast, crispy pancetta and flavourful blend of organic mushrooms, sundried tomatoes and bean ragout. The vegetables seem more flavourful somehow, the chicken more tender, the blend of flavours at once familiar and exotic. It tastes just like a homecooked meal — if your mother just happened to be an award-winning chef. That’s part of Boulevard’s signature appeal: putting a new twist on local foods, by infusing them with international flavours. “Chef Emmanuel has quite a history of awards and talents, but in our kitchen, we also have an international team,” says Shazma Charania, vice president of Holiday Inn & Suites, Red Deer South. “We really try to capitalize on what they can bring to the table.” Red Deerians enjoy the experience of sampling new cuisines using local meats and vegetables, says Charania. Chef David credits that to the growing interest in foods produced locally. “People are more interested in what they eat,” he says. “They need to know what they’re eating. They need to know where their food comes from. They need to know how it’s prepared. Over the years, I’ve seen that Red Deer is becoming more and more aware of good food.” Chef Ubbing agrees. “Local is still a pretty new concept, especially in the Red Deer area,” he says. “But we’re getting there.” RL
summer 2015 • red deer Living 9
people
Farther, faster Tammy Cunnington strives for excellence at international competitions
10  red deer Living • summer 2015
people
By Shelley Newman
S A
A Tammy Cunnington training in Red Deer. Photo by Tanya Lee. B Cunnington as a member of Team Canada, 2015. Photo courtesy Swimming Canada, taken by Kevin Vanpaassen Photograhy.
he’s competed in marathons, just for the fun and entertainment of it. Tammy Cunnington sets the bar extremely high for how to live an active lifestyle, and the elite Red Deer athlete is continually setting new goals for her training. This year, she’s reached a big one, qualifying for the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Swimming World Championships and the Parapan Am Games, both to be held this summer. “The qualification swim meet in Toronto went really well, and I’m honoured to be a part of the Canadian Para-Swimming Team,” Cunnington says. She’ll undoubtedly be busy until the competitions, working with both local and national coaches to prepare for the meets. The IPC Swimming World Championships will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, in July, followed by the Parapan Am Games in Toronto in August. “This was a new area of competition for me,” she explains, “as my focus was previously on paratriathlon, but I fully switched to swimming just this year.” Cunnington’s switch to swimming arose from what many would have considered a careerending heartache, when her classification of athletes wasn’t included for the debut of triathlon at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. “Para athletes are classified based on their levels of ability so that people can compete with others who are like-bodied,” she says. For the 2016 Paralympic Games, several levels of classifications weren’t included for triathlon, with Cunnington’s classification being one of those. Despite the letdown — and the removal of a major career goal, she refused to quit. “I’d been working with swim coaches for the triathlon anyway, so after a lot of consideration and discussions with my husband and my coaches, I decided to make the switch from triathlon to swimming.” The spirit, motivation and tenacity that allowed Cunnington to change directions at this stage of her athletic career has served her well throughout her life, starting with the accident that caused her to become a paraplegic many years ago. “I was with my family at an air show in Ponoka when two planes crashed,” she says. “I was hit by one and my brother also had his leg broken.” The event took place in April of 1982, when she was in grade one, and her rehabilitation took most of the next two years. With the support of her active, athletic family, Cunnington discovered the sport of wheelchair
B basketball when she was about 8 years old. “My parents drove me to Edmonton to practice and play when I was in school,” she explains. “Basketball became a big part of my life: I was part of Team Canada, and we won gold at the 1994 Women’s World Championships in England.” With world-class athletic success under her belt, Cunnington decided to retire from basketball and take some time off of sports while she pursued her psychology degree from Red Deer College and Athabasca University. Her athletic retirement wasn’t permanent, though, as she joined a local gym in 2001 and soon had her first exposure to triathlon. “There was a triathlon training group that I joined, and I became absolutely hooked,” she recalls. The hand cycle, used by para-triathletes instead of a bicycle, was a big factor in her love of the sport. “I first tried a hand cycle in a parking lot when I was looking to buy it, and my first thought was: ‘This is freedom!’ I was able to go farther, faster than I ever had before.” Cunnington’s first competition was a local Woody’s Triathlon, where she competed in the 750 metre swim, 20 kilometre biking
»
summer 2015 • red deer Living 11
people
A A Cunnington with her husband, Martin Piffer, and their dog, Eiffel. Photo by Tanya Lee. B Paddling while on vacation in Jamaica. Photo courtesy Tammy Cunnington. C Tammy Cunnington at the Michener Aquatic Centre pool, where she trains with her local coaches. Photo by Tanya Lee.
portion using her hand cycle and 5 kilometre run using her racing wheelchair. Always looking for new ways to challenge herself, she began to work her way up, competing in Olympic distance triathlons and two half Ironman events — with the latter having distances of 2 kilometre for the swim, 90 kilometre for the cycling and 20 kilometre for the running portions. “I’m often the only person in the para classification at these events, but there’s always a challenge,” she says. “If it’s a race I’ve been at before, then I’ll race the clock, and I’m always racing other able-bodied competitors, as well.” As she trains and travels for competitions, first in marathons and triathlons and now in swimming, Cunnington credits the importance of her team, with her husband, Martin Piffer, providing the lynch-pin of support. “I’m so fortunate to have two organizations, One-to-1 Fitness and Weber Physiotherapy, that provide sponsorship,” she says.
B
12 red deer Living • summer 2015
“I always tell people that Weber gives me the flexibility, One-to-1 gives me the strength, my swim coaches Mandi and Zoe give me the technique and my husband gives me the love!” Cunnington and Piffer got married in 2006, after he proposed to her on the Eiffel Tower while they were vacationing in Paris. “He always makes sure I tell that part of the story,” she laughs, “and it was a pretty perfect proposal.” The couple makes their home in Red Deer with their French bulldog, aptly named Eiffel, and some of their many hobbies include summertime paddle boarding and winter sports, such as snowboarding for Piffer and sit-skiing for Cunnington. Health, fitness, motivation and determination are components in everything that Cunnington does and are qualities that will serve her well as she trains for the major competitions this summer. “I take care of my nutrition and all of the out-ofpool athletic training,” she explains. “I’m very fortunate because my coaches take care of all of the technical aspects of my swimming training.” When it comes to in-pool training, Cunnington swims at the Michener Aquatic Centre, five days a week, sometimes twice a day. She trains in a variety of strokes, including backstroke, freestyle, butterfly and breast stroke, and she’ll work with her coaches closer to competition time to determine what events she’ll compete in. With her wealth of world-class experience in a variety of sports, combined with her unique life experiences as a paraplegic, Cunnington has been an ambassador for the Rick Hansen Foundation for over 10 years, and she’s an inspirational speaker at various events, where she shares her personal motivation and experience to help others. “I don’t like being still, and I don’t want to waste any of the abilities I have, so I’m using them to see how far I can go,” she says. “I think people need to find things in life they love to do and really enjoy the journey instead of just looking at the end game or destination. Having a passion that drives you forward enhances the enjoyment of life — overcoming challenges and reaching goals along the way are the bonuses. It’s about embracing life and living rather than just being.” RL
C
culture
A
The
VIKIngS Are ComING!
B
Take cover at the Danish Canadian National museum By Jason Brink
W
hat if I whispered in your ear, with breath that betrayed a faint trace of pickled herring, that within a forty-five minute drive from Red Deer you could visit a veritable Valhalla where all things Danish and Viking abound? Would you run and hide, as most did for centuries at the first glimpse of a Viking ship? Or, if you’re a fan of the History Channel’s TV series, Vikings, perhaps you understand the only appropriate response to a Viking invasion is either to submit or embrace your inner Viking and plunder forth with shield and sword — or GPS, if you’re not entirely sure where Dickson, Alberta is. On August 15 and 16, the Danish Canadian National Museum will host its sixth annual Viking Days extravaganza. Located west of Innisfail and less than a kilometre south of the quaint Scandinavian-laden hamlet of Dickson, the Museum is an internationally recognized hotbed of Danish culture. And, yes, the Vikings are coming. Kari Morck, business and visitor services lead for the Museum, assures anyone brave enough to visit that they will not be disappointed by this popular event. “The first year we had 400 visitors to Viking
Days, and now that word has spread, we get at least double that.” During Viking Days, a re-enactment group of 40 Norsemen camp in a Viking village on site, where they dress, live, eat and battle as real Vikings. Make no mistake: these aren’t your low budget Halloween Vikings. All of them come dressed in “legit” period garb. The re-enactors do careful research on what the Vikings wore, how they lived and how they fought, and they
»
A shield wall! Photo by shelley Newman. B Viking attack. Photo courtesy harvey Brink. C Vikings ready for battle. Photo courtesy steve morck
C
summer 2015 • red deer Living
13
culture
A-D Warriors in battle and at rest during Viking Days. e
Viking boat house. Photo courtesy kari morck.
F
Viking shields. Photo courtesy harvey Brink.
Photos A-D by shelley Newman.
take their roles very seriously, which only adds to the authenticity. Seeing dozens of Vikings charge over the hill and descend upon the battlefield in a fierce cacophony of battle cries and clanging weaponry is well worth the price of admission alone. Battling with swords and axes, they fight to the last man standing, as it often was during real Viking battles. Afterwards they’ll talk about the battle and offer demonstrations on the proper techniques required to handle the various weaponry. Visitors are encouraged to stroll the camp and interact with the Vikings to learn about their lifestyle. “The Vikings are so good with the kids,” says Morck. “They’ll show them the swords and the helmets, then they’ll do at least one kids’ battle with foam swords both days. The 10-year-old boys are all over that.” Gate admission for Viking Days is $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Tickets for the fourth annual Viking Feast on Saturday night are $50 a head, with a limited number available. The feast offers traditional Viking dishes and delectable Danish desserts, along with Danish beers and Viking mead. Dinner guests are also treated to enter-
A
B
tainment, Viking style, which often includes a battle, stories, singing and other surprises. The Danish Canadian National Museum, along with the Saga Café, bakery and gift shop are open to the public by donation from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday to Monday from May 8 to September 7. The Museum occupies 13 acres of grounds, gardens and walking trails, with multiple indoor and outdoor displays, historically crafted outbuildings, plus a recently acquisitioned Viking ship built in Denmark that toured across Canada before reaching its permanent home here. “There’s a real sense of nostalgia and wonder for me when I visit the Museum,” says Kristine Amundrud, descendant of some of Dickson’s first Danish settlers. “My grandparents settled here in 1925, and I feel like their way of life and our Danish heritage is reflected so well in everything the Museum does.” Kristine’s husband, Jo Amundrud, a grade eight teacher in nearby Spruce View considers the Museum a cultural and educational gem. “I’ll take classes to the Museum and then on the walking trails around the grounds to the church and the old cabin,” he says, “and the calibre of displays you’ll find are on par with anything you’d see at Heritage Park in Fort Edmonton.” Whether you’re a cultural explorer in need of your next local fi x or just in it for the Vikings, mead and pastries, all are velkommen at the Danish Canadian National Museum. rL
For more information, visit www.danishcanadians.com
e C
d
looking for other attractions nearby? Consider visiting the three other sites on the "scandinavian trail,” including: the dickson store museum www.dicksonstoremuseum.com Historic markerville www.historicmarkerville.com stephansson House Provincial Historic site www.history.alberta.ca/stephansson
14
red deer Living • summer 2015
f
community
red Deer experience Awards and training celebrate the hospitality and tourism industry By Shelley Newman
A
n outstanding server at a restaurant. to the awards ceremony with me — it was something A beautiful hotel to stay in. An amazI wanted her to see, and so it was quite exciting when ing event. Everyone remembers a great they called my name as the winner!” experience, and on April 21, the 2014 Similarly, Kevin Traptow, owner of Traptow’s Cool Red Deer Experience Awards celebrated the service Beans Coffee Company, was pleased to be named the industry professionals and businesses that make it winner for the Dining & Food category for Outstanding all possible. Business. “It goes to show the power of the bus!” he Hosted by Tourism Red Deer, the awards were held says. “It was also really rewarding to learn that people at the Welikoklad Event Centre, appreciate the sense of communiwhere an enthusiastic audience ty that we’re trying to help create celebrated all that the indusdowntown. That’s been our vision try has to offer. Winners were since we started, and it’s so nice to announced in three categories be acknowledged for that work.” for Outstanding Individuals and The awards have evolved since in five categories for Outstanding they first began as the Leap for Businesses. Excellence Tourism Awards in “This year, we had over 148 1997, and recent changes to the nominations for the awards,” nomination processes have resultsays Liz Taylor, executive director ed in a year-round opportunity for at Tourism Red Deer. A panel of excellence to be recognized. “Over Victor robicheau winner of events & judges received the nominations, the past couple of years, we’ve Attractions category for outstanding selecting the top three finalists made some changes to the process Invididual. Photo courtesy Tourism red Deer and the winner for each cateby making the nominations open gory. “The nominees are informed before-hand if all year long and by encouraging anyone to make a they’ll be finalists for the awards,” says Taylor, “but nomination, whether they’re a customer, peer or manthe winners aren’t announced until the night of the ager,” says Taylor. “This helps to ensure that all people ceremony, so it’s quite exciting for the nominees and in the service industry can be recognized, no matter if the audience.” they work in visible or behind-the-scenes roles.” As the a nominee for the Events & Attractions Whether winners are individuals or businesses, “peocategory for Outstanding Individual, Victor Robiple look at the awards as a distinguishing accomplishcheau from Westerner Park was initially surprised ment in Red Deer,” says Vicky Loughlin, marketing to learn he was a nominee. “My boss told me that I manager with Tourism Red Deer. “Businesses can use was a finalist, and everyone at work was really happy the designation in their advertising, and past awards for me,” he says. “Then, I was able to take my mom are frequently framed in prominent locations.”
»
summer 2015 • red deer Living
15
community
A A Vicky Loughlin (left) and Liz Taylor (right) of Tourism red Deer at the awards ceremony. B Traptow's Cool Beans Bus Company, winner of Food & Dining category for outstanding Business. C 2014 tour group from the training component of the awards. Photo courtesy Tourism red Deer.
B
While being nominated for and winning an award is an achievement in itself, Tourism Red Deer has also created a training component to help expand the Red Deer Experience umbrella. As part of the training, a customer service workshop and tours of local attractions take place in the weeks following the awards. “The workshop is free and is open to anyone who works in the service industry,” says Loughlin. “It’s intended to provide front-line staff with additional skills that will help them in their roles.” The tour component provides an opportunity for people to visit and learn about the various attractions in Red Deer, which helps to promote tourism in the region overall. “The service industry in Red Deer is fairly small, and there are great opportunities for partnering and promotion,” says Taylor. “When front-line staff learn first-hand about what’s available, they can pass this on to customers and share their experiences, which may encourage people to visit the attraction.” Partnering the awards ceremony with a training component has proven successful so far, and Tourism Red Deer looks to keep building on this success. “It’s very important to recognize people and businesses in the industry for the good work they do,” says Taylor. “It’s also important to provide education and training for staff, because this keeps raising the bar for the types of experiences that people can have in Red Deer.” rL
2014 red deer experience Awards winners outstAnding indiViduAl ACCommoDATIoNs:
rachel Adair, Best Western PLUS red deer Inn & Suites eVeNTs & ATTrACTIoNs:
Victor robicheau, Westerner Park DINING & FooD:
Brad Campbell, Montana’s Cookhouse & Bar outstAnding Business ACCommoDATIoNs:
Holiday Inn & Suites red deer South eVeNTs & ATTrACTIoNs:
Red Deer Cruise Night DINING & FooD:
Traptow’s Cool Beans Coffee Company TourIsm serVICes:
Big Bend Market soCIAL meDIA eNGAGemeNT:
Heritage ranch/Westlake grill
C 16
red deer Living • summer 2015
For more information or to nominate an individual or business for an outstanding experience, visit www.visitreddeer.com
summer 2015 • red deer Living 17
outdoors
A snapshot of Central Alberta beaches to enjoy this summer
Toes in the sand By Laurette Woodward
S Playing at Ol' MacDonalds Resort. Photo by Laurette Woodward
Sylvan Lake views. Photo courtesy Town of Sylvan Lake
itting on the beach with a cold drink in her hand, watching her children play, is just about one of Farah Wannop’s favourite experiences. “I feel like I’ve had a mini vacation when I go,” she says. “The lake has a natural and scenic feeling to it. I feel like I’ve had a day away in nature.” Wannop is referring to her favourite Alberta beach, along the southern shores of Gull Lake, about 14 kilometres west of Lacombe and an easy drive from Red Deer. The day-use area is called Ebeling Beach, which is a part of the larger Aspen Beach Provincial Park. Amenities include flush toilets and change facilities, water, firewood for sale and fire pits. There is also a playground along the beach and a concession. The parking is plentiful and more than 100 picnic sites. People coming to Ebeling Beach will find a grassy area with a few trees as well as a long, sandy beach that is groomed every day. Wannop says the sailing club on the shores of Gull Lake has a calming influence, with fewer motorized boats than on other lakes she has experienced. Most often, Wannop takes day trips to Ebeling with her four children and just lets them play. “I like that it’s shallow for a long way out. It feels safe for my kids there. Also, because the water is warmer when it’s shallow, I am more likely to go out into the water with them.”
Sylvan Lake Arguably the most well-known Central Alberta beach is Sylvan Lake, a 24 kilometre drive west of Red Deer. Wikipedia estimates 1.5 million visitors go to the town each year. Sylvan Lake Provincial Park is located along the southeastern shore of the lake. Because the park borders the town, one of the main attractions of this beach is the convenience of the restaurants and other amenities a short walk or drive from the beach. 18 red deer Living • summer 2015
outdoors
Fireworks over sylvan Lake. Photo courtesy Town of sylvan Lake.
Wagon ride at ol' macDonalds resort. Photo courtesy ol' macDonalds resort
Wakeboarding at ol' macDonalds resort. Photo courtesy Julie shearer.
outdoor fun with water … in red deer Blue grass sod farm Central spray and Play Open 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. 47a avenue and 48 Street
discovery Canyon
For more information: 403-343-6341 3.5 km north of 30 Avenue, from 67th Street adjacent to the river Bend golf and Recreation Area
Beach at ol' macDonalds resort. Photo courtesy ol' macDonalds resort.
The day-use park has wheelchair accessible washrooms and showers, water, picnic shelters, 50 picnic sites and a fast food concession. Sylvan Lake first started attracting tourists in the early 1900s. Since then, Sylvan Lake has been known for the many recreational opportunities it provides. From swimming, to water skiing or just hanging out at the beach, Sylvan Lake has a lot to offer. “Sylvan Lake knows summer,” says Mayor Sean McIntrye. “We happily welcome everyone to check out the exciting lakeside community we’ve become. We have so much going on throughout the summer from Art in the Park, and outdoor music festivals, to street performances and our famous fireworks shows — we’ve got something for everyone!”
ol’ macdonalds resort Red Deerian Julie Shearer’s favourite beach is at Ol’ MacDonalds Resort located on Buffalo Lake, about 60 kilometre east of Lacombe. “I think it’s the nicest Alberta beach,” says Shearer. Her family often water skis on the lake, and sometimes just stay on the beach and enjoy what it has to offer. “I tell my friends who join us sometimes
that they should plan to stay for a while. It’s really hard to get the kids to want to go home because it’s so much fun there.” The resort is privately owned, so there is a charge for day-use visitors as well as campers. The beach is groomed daily. There are washroom facilities and concessions at the beach area, as well as a marina and fire pits available for day use. The resort also offers other amenities such as pedal powered karts for the kids to ride around the campground, playgrounds, a petting zoo, wagon rides and mini golf. “It’s such a safe family environment,” says Shearer. “It reminds me of when I was a kid and could just run free. My kids can do that there.” Ol’ MacDonalds opened 30 years ago, under the ownership of Jean MacDonald. She and her son still run it today. “I love that we’ve helped families create good memories,” says MacDonald. “It’s a remarkable feeling to have influenced lives in a meaningful way.” rL
recreation Centre outdoor Pool
Hours vary – call to confirm: 403-309-8428 4501 47a avenue
rotary recreation Park
Wading pool located behind Recreation Centre 4501 47 a avenue
looking for more beach time? For more information on these and on the many other beaches in Central Alberta, visit: www.travelalberta.com www.albertaparks.ca www.olmacdonalds.com www.visitsylvanlake.ca
summer 2015 • red deer Living
19
20 red deer Living • summer 2015
feature
Fine dining greater good for the
Morris and Hazel Flewwelling. Photo by Leslie Greentree
By Leslie Greentree
A Flewwelling tradition that has spanned almost 30 years
D
inner at Hazel and Morris Flewwelling’s home is always an event: fine food and ambiance, gracious hosts and elegant table settings. But when you’ve paid for the privilege, with your money going to one of the many charities they support, you know you’ll get a rare experience. Imagine a table set with gleaming crystal and silverware, elegant linens and china, breathtaking floral arrangements, a wandering violin player. Now imagine beginning your meal with champagne, canapés, escargots. You move on to homemade bouillon and lox roses, followed by proscuittowrapped prawns. Next, a sorbet with fruit. The main course: medallions of beef tenderloin bedded on roast garlic risotto and spring vegetables, with Italian salad. And to finish, lemon cream, cheeses, grapes and crackers, coffee, liqueurs and chocolate. Heavenly, no? The Flewwellings have been donating dining experiences to Red Deer fundraisers since the ‘90s. It began when they attended a fundraiser dinner and were asked if they’d donate to the cause. “We were two teachers — we thought, what can we donate?” says Morris. “All we could think of was food, and it took off from there.”
The couple’s love of entertaining comes naturally; both grew up in homes with a love of good food. Morris remembers Hazel’s mother as a stunning cook, and his mother’s focus on a beautiful table. The Flewwelling dinners have benefited many local charities, including Central Alberta Women’s Emergency Shelter,
A western-themed dinner. Photo courtesy Morris and Hazel Flewwelling.
»
summer 2013 Summer 2015 • red deer Living 21
feature
Festival of Trees, Red Deer College Affairs of the Arts, United Way, the Rotary Club Black Tie Bingo and the Red Deer Arts Council. The dinners are often themed: Monte Carlo night or a Midsummer Night’s Feast. They’ve recreated the menu from the last first-class supper on the Titanic. And dinners always include live music: a flautist, a jazz trio, a violin, usually from the college music program or the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra. “The experience angle is what’s propelled this into what it’s become,” says Morris, noting that many popular auction packages are experiential: art lessons, a helicopter trip or a whitewater rafting adventure. Elegant dinners continue to be a top seller. The most expensive dinner they ever sold was for $5,600 for the Festival of Trees. “For that amount of money, it has to be pretty special,” Morris says. Several packages included a trail ride at the Flewwelling farm followed by an elaborate westernthemed dinner. “For these themes, instead of musicians, we’ve brought in someone from the Medicine River Wildlife Centre and released rehabilitated hawks,” says Morris. “That’s a very special thing to be able to do.” One of the secrets to a successful dinner is a clear delineation of responsibility. Morris does the table flower arrangements and A Musical guests accompany the cooking; Hazel does the table many of the dinner parties. décor and the plating and serving B Western dinners also of the food. In keeping with their include the release of a famed attention to detail, Hazel rehabilitated hawk from Medicine Wildlife Centre also creates mementos of the evening; each couple gets a set of C Western-themed dinners start with a horseback ride photographs and a professionally at the Flewwelling ranch. printed souvenir menu. D A springtime-themed “We track all our dinners,” Hazel dinner. says. “When the same people E Hazel finalizing the plating attend over again, I go back and of a course. check what colour the linens were, F Preparing the meal. as well as what we served them. The table settings have gotten Photos courtesy Morris and Hazel Flewwelling. wilder as we’ve gone along.” 22 red deer Living • summer 2015
A
B
Dinners take place in the couple’s charming 60-year-old home in Mountview, renovated over the years to create larger spaces for dinners. The summer deck parties are magical; a large flowering apple tree strung with lights extends over much of the decking, accompanied by flowerpots, a small gazebo and sparkling tables set in summery colours with in-season flower arrangements. “It’s become a joke,” Hazel says, “That the only way people can come to our house is to pay for it.” The Flewwellings love the logistical challenges — perfecting the timing and seeing the details come together; every decision involves rearranging furniture, choosing settings, shopping and prepping to create a seven to 10 course meal from scratch. As the dinners became more elaborate, friends began volunteering to help prep and serve; many were guests at earlier dinners, wanting
feature
C D
to see the other side of the experience. “It’s choreography and quick adjustments,” Morris says. “You have to pull things off so no one knows if there’s a glitch. You want everyone to be completely relaxed and enjoying themselves.” The couple admits to moments of nerves before a big dinner. “We’ve said to each other, ‘What are we doing? This is so much work!’” says Hazel. “And when we’re prepping for a dinner, we have questions like, ‘Where do we put the laundry?’” The couple is constantly thinking how they can change things. “It’s fresh to those who are coming, but it’s nice to do something new for our own satisfaction,” Hazel says. “We look back at photos, at what colours we used, and see what we can do differently. It has to be fun and the food has to be excellent.” Their basement holds an awe-inspiring collection: stacked, labeled tubs of linens in a plethora of colours and styles; 12 antique chairs from the Banff Springs Hotel; silver sets and numerous china patterns. “We’re like any banquet facility,” Hazel laughs. “We need tables, chairs, linens and so on. When you have it all, you can do all kinds of mixes and matches.” Morris says they don’t go overboard on wine pairings, serving one white and one red with the meal. “We find that if you get too fussy, it’s offputting to people. We offer black tie service but people need to be comfortable — they come to enjoy themselves.” The Flewwellings can’t begin to estimate the amount of money they’ve generated for local charities. While they’ve cut back slightly from an average of four dinners a year, they have no plans to stop. “We do spend a lot of time at it,” Morris says, “But putting it all together is such fun.” And, Hazel adds, the most important thing they’ve learned over years of dinner parties is this: “Any failure can be fixed with butter or cream.” RL
The most expensive dinner they ever sold was for $5,600 for the Festival of Trees.
E
F
summer 2015 • red deer Living 23
entertainment
Fun chas Family friendly festivities abound this summer
ferris Wheel at Westerner days. Photo courtesy Westerner Park.
flyin' Bob. Photo courtesy Central Alberta Children’s festival.
By Jock Mackenzie
I
f you can say “family friendly festivals” five times, you are on your way to a sensational and satisfying summer. The best festivals are the ones where there’s something for everyone in the family — even if it’s the big kid that hides in all good parents. By choosing festivals that are accessible and affordable, you are sure to spend quality time and make meaningful memories with your family.
Central Alberta Children’s festival
Children arriving at Central Alberta Children’s festival. Photo courtesy Central Alberta Children’s festival.
24
red deer Living • summer 2015
The Central Alberta Children’s Festival, held on June 5 and 6, will have over 40 tents and two main stages. Friday’s headliners are Flyin’ Bob, the One-Man, Three Ring Circus, and Professor Klunk, Storyteller Extraordinaire. “We want families to interact, to play,” says Judy Scott, executive director, Family Services Central Alberta, “and we want to make this event affordable. Once you’re inside the gates, there’s no more paying.” A family of four pays only $20 for the entire day or $30 for a weekend, anytime pass; individual tickets are six dollars. Snack booths with easy-peel oranges and pre-packaged treats are spread throughout the park alongside water stations — so bring a refillable bottle or even your own picnic. Held at Recreation Park (just behind the Recreation Centre and across from the Red Deer Arena), the area is divided into numerous components. In the science area, Red Deer College is represented, and there’ll also be rocks and gems, Lego and the Telus World of Science truck. In the bouncer area, you’ll find bouncing, an obstacle course and a maze. CalfSkit will be at the festival, and Moonwalkers is coming. There will be cheerleaders, hair braiding, nail and face painting. In Box City, old and young can decorate a box and build a town.
For more information, visit www.centralalbertachildrensfestival.ca
entertainment A A Zero Gravity at Westerner Days. Photo courtesy Westerner Park.
ers
B oliva and sophia Caraca-hart. Photo by Jock mackenzie. C Pedro Tochas, upcoming CentreFest performer. Photo courtesy CentreFest.
B
Westerner days An event-filled five days makes Westerner Days the biggest event in Central Alberta each summer. It kicks off on C Wednesday, July 15, at 9:30 a.m. with the ever-popular parade, and the festivities run until Sunday, July 19. If sisters, Olivia and Sophia Caraca-Hart, aren’t amongst the 30,000 or so watching the decorated floats and vehicles, bands and livestock, they are sure to be at the Westerner grounds. The girls are too old for the kiddie rides but the bigger ones now have a greater appeal. “You know the roller coaster that goes upside down?” asks Sophia. She then beams and adds, “I die on that one!” Of course, going with friends makes it tons of fun. Olivia says she loves to eat those fair day favourites like “cotton candy, candy apples, hot dogs and pizza.” The girls’ parents are like many Red Deerians who opt for the RAD (Ride All Day) passes available at Mac’s and Central Alberta Co-op stores that cover gate admission and unlimited rides for any one day. “This year there’s a $30 Mega Pass,” For more information, visit says Meghan Gustum, www.westernerdays.ca marketing manager at Westerner Park, “that can be exchanged onsite for a five-day wristband.” McDonald’s Kids Day is on Thursday and Sunday is Servus Credit Union Family Day.
looking for more family friendly festivals? There are many fun festivals across Central Alberta each summer. To get a sampling of what’s out there, visit these websites: tourism red deer www.visitreddeer.com/events Community events Calendar www.reddeerevents.ca
Centrefest CentreFest, held in downtown Red Deer, will celebrate its 14th spectacular year. The ATCO Gas Kick-off and Barbecue in City Hall Park at noon on Friday, July 24, is the first of the many attractions to take place. The festival begins on Saturday, July 25, and runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and continues through Sunday, July 26, from noon until 6 p.m. Two “Circle Shows” act like bookends at either end of the Ross Street component. “Major acts from around the world perform in these two areas,” says Flyin’ Bob Palmer, CentreFest’s artistic director. “We have acts like the Hockey Circus Show and Pedro Tochas, a famous Portuguese silent clown.” Between the two circles there will be numerous vendor tents and booths. There’s a food court on 49 Avenue with delicious treats — many of them ethnic delights. Also on 49th is the Music World Stage that features local and Alberta musicians — from individuals to full bands, folk to country to rock. Throughout the entire festival world, audiences will find roving performers who juggle, walk on stilts and perform balancing acts. You never know when they’ll turn up but they could be anywhere. When you need a For more information, visit break, you can head www.centrefest.ca to Circus World in City Hall Park, where you’ll have your opportunity to try all of the things the performers do and more — tight wire walking, plate spinning, stilt walking. “Centrefest is known as an ‘open’ festival,” says Palmer, “in that there is no set cost other than what your heart suggests. The performers rely on your generosity, so if you believe you’ve seen unique talent it’s hoped you will respond accordingly.” rL summer 2015 • red deer Living
25
feature By Jim Zang
Central Alberta home builders honoured at Awards of Excellence
Everyone’s a winner T
Platinum Homes Bowood Homes
Laebon Homes
he numbers don’t lie. With more than 550 people in attendance at the Red Deer Sheraton May 9, and more than 125 total entries over 20 different categories, the 30th annual Canadian Home Builders Association – Central Alberta Awards of Excellence was by far the biggest and best ever! It was a first-class evening all around, beginning with the cocktail hour entertainment provided by the Greg Boulay Trio (a very cool jazz fusion re-working of hits by artists like Fleetwood Mac, Eagles and John Mellencamp, to name a few), followed by a gourmet meal of braised short ribs, smoked corn potatoes and seasonal vegetables that tasted as good as it looked. Pre-awards and intermission entertainment was by Safire Dance who got the crowd warmed up — literally — with their modern dance routines featuring flaming torches. Don’t try this at home, folks! The fun continued post-awards, with DJ Spin Audio supplying the dance tunes while those of us who are somewhat, um, rhythmically challenged, hit the tables to try our luck at the funny money casino. Special thanks to all the staff at the Sheraton, Awards Committee volunteers, corporate sponsors and Denie Olmstead and Joan Butler at CHBA – CA for contributing to such a great event. Big winners on the evening, taking home builder of the year honours in the large volume category (25+ homes per year), was Laebon Homes, who won a total of five awards on the evening. Top marks in the small volume division went to Platinum Homes, while Bowood Homes won the renovator of the year award. In addition to the housing awards, the following President’s awards were also handed out: Rookie of the Year, Member of the Year, and the Gus Bakke Memorial Award for significant contribution to the association. The real winners of the evening, however, are the people of Central Alberta as they reap the benefits — innovation, quality, affordability — of this friendly competition among CHBA – CA members. See facing page for a complete list of all the 2015 CHBA – Central Alberta Region Awards of Excellence in Housing recipients. RL
The real winners are the people of Central Alberta. 26 red deer Living • summer 2015
feature
Platinum Homes
Laebon Homes’ show home in The Timbers
Best of the Year Award Winners Best of the year BUILDER OF THE YEAR – Large Volume
Laebon Homes
BUILDER OF THE YEAR – Small Volume
Platinum Homes
RENOVATOR OF THE YEAR
Bowood Homes
Excellence in Interior Design
Falcon Homes Ltd Interior Designer(s): Stephanie Fehr, Gina and Kevin Pardy
Safety Leadership Award (SLA) General Member Category
Bruin’s Plumbing and Heating Builder Member Category
Best New Home: Single Family Home Best New Home Up to $224,999
Falcon Homes
Laebon Homes
Partner Awards
Best New Home Between $225,000 - $259,999
Trades of the Year Small Category
Falcon Homes
Best New Home Between $260,000 - $299,999
Scarlett Built Homes
Best New Home Between $300,000 - $374,999
Scarlett Built Homes
Best New Home Between $375,000 - $449,999
Falcon Homes
Best New Home Between $450,000 - $524,999
Laebon Homes
Clearview Glass Service Ltd. Trades of the Year Large Category
Bruin’s Plumbing and Heating Supplier of the Year Small Category
General Appliances
Supplier of the Year Large Category
Best New Home Between $525,000 - $599,999
Executive Home Building Centre
Best New Home Between $600,000 - $674,999
Service Professional of the Year Small Category
Laebon Homes
Mason Martin Homes
Best New Home Between $675,000 - $749,99
Sorento Custom Homes
Snell and Oslund Surveys
Service Professional of the Year Large Category
Best New Estate Home Between $750,000 - $999,999
Servus Credit Union
Best New Estate Home over $1,000,000
PRESIDENT’S AWARDS
Platinum Homes
Mason Martin Homes
Best New Home: Multi Family Townhouse/Duplex/Complex Best New Multi Family Home Town House/Duplex Style under $224,999
Laebon Homes
Best New Multi Family Home Town House/Duplex Style over $225,000
Rookie of the Year
Brandon Bouchard, Paul Davis Systems
Member of the Year
Dorinda Gallant, Sorento Custom Homes Gus Bakke Memorial Award
Kevin Wilkie, True-Line Contracting
True-Line Contracting
Best Renovation Project Best Renovation under $74,999
Sorento Custom Homes
Best Renovation over $125,000
Bowood Homes
summer 2015 • red deer Living 27
| Advertising Feature |
“Walking with Our Sisters” A beautiful and powerful art installation comes to MAG
I
t’s an opportunity to heal and to under- Bannerman, member of the installation’s orgastand and to connect. Coming to MAG nizing committee at MAG. “For the Indigenous from June 1 to 21, “Walking with Our Sis- community, there’s a healing aspect, but it may ters” is a commemorative art also create raw and intense installation honouring an unof loss for everyone.” “One of our biggest hopes feelings thinkable Canadian reality: The installation was crein the past 30 years, almost is that this exhibit will ated to honour the unfin1,200 Aboriginal women ished lives of the women help non-Aboriginal have been murdered or reand is intended to bring ported missing. people to understand the public awareness to the The installation commemof the situation. It depth of loss that comes tragedy orates these women with has also become a way for 1,808 pairs of beaded mocfrom having a missing the Community to cope with casin vamps, or tops, placed their loss. “Walking with Our family member.” in a symbolic path on the Sisters” is an entirely volunfloor. “It’s a beautiful installateer-driven initiative, which tion with intricate artwork, and it’s also very was unveiled in Edmonton in 2013 and will be emotionally powerful, because it’s a memorial displayed in cities throughout North America for missing and murdered women,” says Sheila for seven years.
28 red deer Living • summer 2015
“MAG is providing the space and staff, but this really is an Aboriginal installation,” says Bannerman. “There will be a ceremony when the vamps arrive, and local elders, especially grandmothers, will decide how to place these to best represent our community.” Since October, monthly community conversations have discussed the project and what it means to people here. “It’s come out that a significant number of people have lost their sisters and family members,” Bannerman says. “One of our biggest hopes is that this exhibit will help non-Aboriginal people to understand the depth of loss that comes from having a missing family member.” She adds that “the installation is for everybody who comes as themselves, not confined by the roles of their day jobs, but ready to experience what ‘Walking with Our Sisters’ will mean to them personally.” n
health and wellness
Keep good vision in sight regular eye care is essential for children of any age By Jock Mackenzie
A Dr. kevin hesterman. Photo by Jock mackenzie. B sunglasses are important for people of any age. Photo courtesy Dr. kevin hesterman.
C
aring for your children’s eyesight might be the only thing more critical than caring for your own. Imagine a local mother’s shock when she took her grade one daughter to the optometrist for an eye exam — even though her daughter had no vision complaint. When the doctor asked the little girl to cover her left eye, she turned to her mother and said, “That’s the eye I don’t see out of.” As it turned out, one eye was fi ne but the other had a significant prescription. Even when a parent and child communicate openly, simply talking to a child isn’t a foolproof remedy. They just don’t know what they don’t know. “Incidents like this,” says Dr. Kevin Hesterman of Red Deer Eyecare, the doctor who saw the little girl, “remind me of how important it is for children to get their eyes checked before going to school.” Alberta Health covers children for annual eye exams until the age of 18. It’s recommended that children start as early as six months for their fi rst eye exam and then get one yearly thereafter. A supplement to yearly exams is available through the Alberta Association of Optometrists and the Eye See . . . Eye Learn program (ESEL) by providing any kindergarten-aged child with free eyeglasses.
Protecting your eyes from uV rays uV (ultraviolet) rays are the invisible component of sunlight that are known to cause sunburn and skin cancers. Direct exposure to the sun is cumulative, so even short periods of time can cause long-term problems. remember the following tips to protect your eyes from uV rays: • Sunglasses stamped with 100% uVA/uVB lenses are the best • The price of sunglasses isn’t necessarily the key • Poorly-fitted sunglasses allow up to 45% of UV rays to reach the eyes
A
Some may wonder how B you can test an infant’s eyes. According to Dr. Hesterman, infant exams are different. “The normal response isn’t required, thanks to specialized equipment that measures the power of a small child’s eyes, as well as ocular health,” he explains. “As one example, a retinoscope shines a light into the back of the eye and then takes measurements of the eye’s refractive power. Nearsightedness or farsightedness or the presence of a prescription can be easily determined.” As well, an optometrist will check for eye infections or tear ducts that don’t open. More serious is amblyopia, a condition commonly known as “lazy eye.” It usually develops before age six but early diagnosis makes treatment quicker and easier. Eye tumors are another possibility and often present with a white pupil. The days not spent with an optometrist — the other 364 days a year are important. It’s always good to be aware of a child who squints, blinks excessively, holds objects too close or who avoids books or television. But we all lead busy lives and sometimes it’s hard to remember the time of the last exam. One solution is to have the yearly exam at the same time as your child does all of the other things to get ready for school: get the backpack, prepare the lunch kit, organize the pencils and supplies and make an appointment with your optometrist. The gift of sight is a gift worth cherishing. rL
For more information, visit www.theeyesite.ca/services or www.albertahealthservices.ca summer 2015 • red deer Living
29
you said it
What’s your favourite spot for a summer vacation? By Shae Paterson
“ “ “
I love the beach! Isadora, age 5
I like camping Thurston, age 4
“
“
“ Fairmont Ashley Pitchell, resident
Anywhere with a camper! Vanessa, sales manager
“
At the lake Julie Macrae, health care admin
“
I really like Mexico! Nathan, age 6
“
Hawaii Stephen, security guard
Stay in Red Deer Julie Ray, retired
Penticton Beach Linnea, age 8
shae Paterson is currently a grade 12 student from red deer. With a strong interest and background in all things technical, Shae will be attending rdC this fall, taking the technical theatre program. 30
red deer Living • summer 2015
| Advertising Feature |
Clearly Clearmont Genstar’s jewel of a community in Red Deer
Y
Clearmont in Clearview Ridge is a picturesque, beautiful neighbourhood with a smalltown feeling.
ou could call it pretty, but that just doesn’t do it justice. Clearmont in Clearview Ridge is serene and stately and truly beautiful, with its neighbourhood of stylish new homes being built just steps from the ridge atop the Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary in Red Deer. “The location, with its incredible access to trails, parks and the nature preserve, is one of the main reasons why we bought the land,” says Patrick Briscoe, development manager with Genstar Development Company. “Clearmont really is a jewel, and we’re so excited to create a beautiful new community there.” To help build the community, Genstar connected with four select home builders: Abbey Master Builder, Erickson Homes, Prominent Homes and True-Line Homes. The builders created show homes along Caribou Crescent and Carrington Drive last year, giving the public its first glimpse of the types of executive homes that would be built in the community. With a wide variety of bungalow, modified bi-level and two-storey options to choose from — ranging from 1,300 to over 3,000 square-feet — home styles and selections abound for potential buyers. “The feedback we’ve been getting is really positive,” says Briscoe. “We recently had a conference call with our builders, and they indicated that they’re really pleased to be building there — they basically asked if they could have another Clearmont to build in!” There were originally 100 residential lots available, and Briscoe estimates that about two thirds of these have been sold. This means that buyers still have a variety of lots to choose from, both backing the ridge and on the streets nearby. And, as people will discover when they visit Clearmont, everything is nearby. Homeowners can enjoy the wonderfully easy access to parks and trails, and families are also sure to appreciate the nearby Father Henri Voisin School, which accommodates pre-kindergarten to grade five. Once the school day
is done, the grounds become a playground for all, with two children’s play structures, a soccer field and a hard surface court, for basketball and tennis in the summer and skating in the winter. When it comes to shopping and errands, Clearview Market Square offers a complete range of grocery, restaurant, medical and banking amenities, all just a couple of blocks away. “Clearview Market Square is a really great destination for local residents,” Briscoe explains. “It’s so close to Clearmont that people can go there for all of their daily needs.” The area also includes a spa, yoga studio, vet clinic and pet store, so the health and wellness for all members of the family can be taken care of.
Located in the growing northeast region of Red Deer, Clearmont in Clearview Ridge is a picturesque, beautiful neighbourhood with a smalltown feeling. It’s a place where people can relax as they stroll along the paved trails beside Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary, or they can meet with friends and family at the nearby restaurants in Clearview Market Square. Stop by the show homes on Caribou Crescent to learn more about the home options in Clearmont. When you’re there, be sure to walk through the neighbourhood, so you can get the feeling of what it’s like to call this place home. n
summer 2015 • red deer Living 31
32 red deer Living • summer 2015