Townsizing - Winter 2019

2019 Okotoks Business Excellence Awards

A HIGH RIVER LIFESTYLE

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CON T EN TS

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EDITOR ’S MESSAGE

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EVENTS

H I S TO R Y | C U LT U R E

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Stopping grounds

A quick look at Crossfield’s deep roots

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FE AT U R E

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Diamond in the valley Cluster of towns offer residents the high life

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T’is the season!

Where to go for all your holiday gift giving needs

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2019 Okotoks Business Excellence Awards

Local business owners take the stage at the annual Chamber of Commerce gala

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LIFESTYLE

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High hopes in High River Young family finds the joys in small town living CO M M U N I T Y S P O T L I G H T: DAWSON ’S L A N DI NG

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Dawn of Dawson’s Landing A new era begins in Chestermere with Dawson’s Landing

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ED I TO R ’ S M E S S AG E

Winter is coming…

With the changing of the season comes temperature drops, snowy days and of course the holiday season!

Winter is by far my favourite time of the year, and not just because of the holidays. This may bring some controversy, but I very much enjoy a bit colder weather — dressing up in layers and all the fun snow activities.

In this winter issue of Townsizing I wanted to give you, the readers, some great ideas for holiday shopping — and I found that almost every town or city in our region has some sort of local holiday market for all your gift giving needs.

Some stores even completely change over to become Christmas stores for the season!

This issue also focuses mainly on those towns that are south of the City of Calgary — High River, Okotoks and the Diamond Valley.

Our cover feature — The Chipman Family are a great family of four that relocated to High River for the stellar quality of life and lower cost of housing in this great town. After the wreckage of the infamous flood, we wanted to show how much High River has changed and all the wonderful things the town has to offer current and interested residents. But, don’t take my word for it, read our cover feature and see just exactly why the Chipman’s love High River.

I have always been intrigued by the Diamond Valley — a cluster of communities south west of Calgary that offer so much history, outdoor activity and gorgeous sights. Running along Cowboy Trail, Diamond Valley is about 50 kilometres from Millarville to Longview — it is a stunning drive, even just for a day visit.

Our Diamond Valley story outlines the communities within the valley and what makes residents want to move to and stay in the area.

The annual Okotoks & District Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards was held again in October of this year. This gala celebrates the local businesses of Okotoks and how hard they work every day. The celebration caps off Small Business Week. Check out the story to see all the winners this year!

We also dip our Townsizing toes into the deep history of the Town of Crossfield and the long running families who still live there to this day. Crossfield’s history runs alongside the railway and is quite detailed. I give a brief timeline of how the town came to be and was also fortunate enough to talk to one of the oldest residents, born and raised in Crossfield, Roberta Whittaker.

I hope you all enjoy the winter edition of Townsizing and find some time to celebrate the holidays with your loved ones.

Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca

PUBLISHER |

Brandi Holmes editor@town-sizing.ca

EDITOR |

ART DIRECTOR | Jean Faye Rodriguez jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca CONTRIBUTORS

Pepper Rodriguez, Jennifer Seamone PHOTOGRAPHY

Jean Faye Rodriguez, Alicia Mary Photography ADVERTISING SALES | Brandi Holmes brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca ADVERTISING SALES | Norma Robertson norma.robertson@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING

accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca

©2019 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the written permission from the publishers. 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.

Townsizing® is published four times a year and is available free through select distribution points in Calgary and area.

Townsizing® accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to: editor@town-sizing.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request.

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Season’s Greetings,

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E V EN T S

December

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Holiday Market and Festival of Trees starting at 10 a.m. at the Boys & Girls Club of Airdrie.

This is a fundraising event that directly supports individuals, families and the community. All proceeds raised will support the Boys & Girls Club of Airdrie.

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Airdrie Festival of Lights at Nose Creek park from 6 to 9 p.m. and running until December 31st.

Check out the new light displays, train rides, fire pits, entertainment, skating and more. Admission is free, but please bring a donation to the Airdrie Food Bank.

Holiday Train. The CP Holiday Train is stopping in Airdrie at Nose Creek Park from 6 to 6:30 p.m.

Don’t forget a food bank donation!

The Little Mermaid presented by Bert Church High School at 7 p.m. with a special children’s matinee on December 7. Regular tickets are $12.50, $7 for seniors and students.

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Sounds of the Season presented by the Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra at the Polaris Centre for the Performing Arts. Starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 to $55.

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Santa Visit starting December 7th and happening every Tuesday until Christmas at Nose Creek Park from 7 to 8 p.m.

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New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Ed Eggerer Athletic Park starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information visit airdrieparades.com

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P H OTO CO U R T E S Y W W W.C P R .C A / H O L I DAY-T R A I N / C A N A DA

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Santa Claus Parade starting at 4:30 p.m.

The parade runs along Main Street from 6th Avenue to Ridgegate Way. Closures begin at 4:30 p.m.

P H OTO CO U R T E S Y B ER TC H U R C H . R O C K Y V I E W. A B .C A

A I RDR I E

E V EN T S

A I RDR I E

January

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P H OTO CO U R T E S Y B ER TC H U R C H . R O C K Y V I E W. A B .C A

Midwinter Gala presented by the Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are $750 for a table of 8 or $100 per person.

Cocktails start at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. and entertainment at 8:30 p.m.

February

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Blue Moon Marquee at the Bert Church LIVE Theaters from 7:30 to 9 p.m. A local Gypsy Blues band who currently resides in British Columbia. Primarily a live duo with the energy of a full band. For more information visit bertchurchtheatre.com

COCH R A N E

December

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Cochrane Artisan Christmas Market starting at 10 a.m. at the Lions Club Event Centre. This market showcases 50+ artisans or 100 per cent hand-crafted giftware. Free admission and parking.

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Cochrane Christmas Farmers Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre. Visit cochranefarmersmarket.ca for all the info.

CH ESTE R M E RE

December

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Kids’ Holiday Store Fundraiser. Children ages 4 and up from all over Chestermere are welcome. Before entering, the kids will prepare their shopping list and then are paired with their own person Elf to help pick out presents for their loved ones. After all the gifts are chosen, the Elves and shoppers will wrap the gifts together.

December

CROSSF I E LD

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Crossfield Farmers’ Marker Winter Season held every Thursday until the last Thursday in January 2020 at the Crossfield community centre from t 3:30 to 7 p.m.

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E V EN T S

OKOTOK S

December

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Skate with Santa from 2:15 to 3:15 p.m. at Okotoks Rec Centre.

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Living Nativity at St. James Church from 4 to 8 p.m.

January

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Medieval Combat Winter Cup. Full contact Medieval Combat, real steel, swords and armour. This event will be the trials for Team Canada to attend the International Medieval Combat Federation’s World Championships. Held at the Okotoks Agricultural Centre.

STR ATH MORE

January

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Shorty Bonspiel at the Strathmore & District Curling Club starting at 8 a.m.

For more information or to register visit www.strathmorecurling.ca

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2020 Alberta Scotties Tournament of Hearts Ladies Curling Championship held at the recreation centre. Alberta’s top 8 women’s curling teams will vie for a chance to represent our province at the Canadian Championship to be held in February in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Tickets are available through the Okotoks Curling Club website www. okotokscurling. com.

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Roadmap Bootcamp at the Strathmore Entrepreneur Centre in Bow Valley College.

This bootcamp is designed to clarify your business goals, identify what stands in your way of success and determine solutions in a small group setting.

For more information visit the Bow Valley College website.

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Mixed Bonspiel at the Strathmore & District Curling Club. For more information or to register visit www.strathmorecurling.ca.

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H I S TO RY | CU LT U R E

Stopping grounds

Brandi Holmes

C

rossfield is a small town north of Calgary located just off of Queen Elizabeth Highway II. With a current population of 3,308 and 35 per cent of the population having lived in Crossfield for 10 or more years, there is a lot of history to uncover in this railway town.

Like many other towns in this region, Crossfield got its start as a stopping house on the trail between Calgary and Edmonton dating back to

1890. A short two years later, a rail system, built

by C and E Railway provided rail transportation between the two cities. Because of this new rail system, a siding 29 miles north of Calgary was given the name of “Crossfield” after Mr. Crossfield who was an engineer for the Canadian Pacific Railway surveyor crew.

Railway history is deeply rooted in Crossfield and vice versa. The railway system still plays a large part in Crossfield’s industrial economy today.

PHOTO COURTESY GLENBOW MUSEUM

WRITTEN BY

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PHOTO COURTESY GLENBOW MUSEUM

A quick look at Crossfield’s deep roots

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H I S TO RY | CU LT U R E

B In the years following, staple businesses started popping up all over Crossfield. Starting in 1902, a blacksmith shop, post office, general store, meat market, one-room schoolhouse, real estate office, drugstore, medical practice and many other businesses established themselves within Crossfield. Finally, in 1907, Crossfield became incorporated as a village.

Following the incorporation, the village continued to grow with the addition of a bank, Catholic Church, four-room brick schoolhouse and an automobile garage.

Tragedy struck twice in 1924 when a fire destroyed the heart of the village in January and then again in November, effectively reducing the village to ruins. While re-building the village, electricity was installed in 1928, water and sewer in 1953 and natural gas in 1956.

Skip forward to 1980, Crossfield reached a population of over 1,000 permanent residents and thus became a town — the title that it still holds to this day.

There are many families that have been in Crossfield from the start and have had the pleasure to see the little siding grow into the town that it is TOW N - SIZI N G.C A

today. Townsizing had the opportunity to chat with Roberta Whittaker, the daughter of Ernie Sharp who ran the Crossfield Garage after WWII. “My father came to Crossfield in 1929 with his family when he was 15 years old,” says Roberta.

“Once he was conscripted into WWII he was stationed in Debert, Nova Scotia where he worked in the machinery shop, looking after all the equipment that was to be shipped overseas.” >>

A ] C and E Railway provided rail transportation between the Calgary and Edmonton.

B ] Starting in 1902, a blacksmith shop, post office, general store, meat market, one-room schoolhouse, real estate office, drugstore, medical practice and many other businesses established themselves within Crossfield.

C ] Roberta Whittaker (left) and Glen Price (shorty).

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H I S TO RY | CU LT U R E A

B

A ] Public art - Train heritage.

B ] Heritage street signs.

C ] Earnie Sharp.

C

It was in that very shop where Ernie earned his mechanics licence and upon returning home to Crossfield, he was gifted the Crossfield Garage from Fred Baker — the original owner. Ernie Sharp ran the shop for many years and eventually sold it to his brother, Allen Sharp and Lew Anderson.

Allen and Lew eventually sold it to Bob Romman, and Bob to the current owner Shorty (Glen Price).

Shorty has since renovated the shop but kept some parts of the original shop within the new design.

The Crossfield Garage is one of the oldest businesses in town and has a rich history with tons of interesting stories to tell.

Ernie Sharp retired and lived out the rest of his days in Crossfield with his family, he died at the age of 92. Roberta, one of his daughters, still lives in Crossfield today on the same street she grew up on.

Her three children also live within a five-mile radius of her, with her son living in her father’s old house.

“It’s usually unheard of for grown children to be able to stay in the small town they grew up in,” says Roberta. But Crossfield has grown and allows for working opportunities in very close proximity to the town, that now there is really no need to move to the big city for work.

Crossfield is already an energetic community with huge opportunity for retail, commercial and industrial business. Coupled with the rich railway history, and the deep roots of many of the residents, the town has an overwhelming sense of family and belonging. This is only a mere taste of the many, many residents and historical figures of Crossfield so for more information on Crossfield visit crossfieldalberta.com. TS

Crossfield is already an energetic community with huge opportunity for retail, commercial and industrial business.

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DOWN IN THE VALLEY

Cluster of towns offer residents the high life

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estled along the foothills south and west of Calgary is the majestic Diamond Valley. Scenic landscapes, rolling hills, vast ranch lands, cool towns and magnificent mountain views makes the Diamond Valley a treasure at the doorstep of Calgary.

The region straddles highway 22 south and west of Calgary, extending 50 kilometers south along the Cowboy Trail to the Village of Longview.

Travel just 25 minutes outside of Calgary and you are transported to a land of cowboys, outdoor adventure, artists and musicians.

A world class destination by any standard, the scenery, cuisine, culture and outdoor activities throughout the region draw visitors from around the world.

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WRITTEN BY

Jennifer Seamone

A relaxing drive along country roads in the region is filled with endless wonder as hills give way to breathtaking vistas featuring stunning ranch and country homes at every turn. Wondrously transforming from lush summers’ bounty to rich fall colours and winter hills crowned with snow, this unique land will mesmerize and enthrall.

The first stop on our journey is the Millarville Racetrack and Farmers’ Market.

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A A ] Diamond and Coal Cart.

B C

B ] Mayor Goodwin and The Heat Dancers.

C ] Longview Steakhouse and Helicopter.

D ] RCMP - K-Division Pipes.

D

F ] An abundance of camping, outdoor activities and wildlife along the Sheep River Valley means there is always lots to see and do. With an indomitable outdoor spirit, boundless views of the Rocky Mountains and sightings of deer, elk, moose, bear and cougars, living in the area or paying a visit is always an adventure.

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The Market is open Saturdays from June to midOctober featuring local farmers, producers, bakers and artisanal crafts and products.

A three-dollar parking fee to support local youth programs unlocks a world of delicious enjoyment. Be sure to mark your calendar with the upcoming 2019 Millarville Christmas Market from November 7-10. A busy place all year long, the Millarville Racetrack hosts horse racing and rodeo, chuckwagons and chariots and lots in between.

A little further south is the town of Turner Valley. Considered the birthplace of the oil and gas industry in Alberta, the town has transformed into a desirable hamlet and destination with shops, restaurants and local artisans. With so much to choose from, it will definitely take many visits to explore this lovely town and its’ surroundings.

Visit the Turner Valley Gas Plant National Historic Site or tour the Eau Claire Distillery and Fahr Brewery. Check out the charming shops and stop for lunch at a local eatery. All day breakfast at the Chuckwagon Café and Grill is legendary. Enjoy being outside and take a swing at the local 18-hole golf course.

Known for attracting artists and musicians, beautiful local art and lots of music can be found throughout Turner Valley. Enjoy Beneath the Arch

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Concert Series from September to May, take in a band at a local hotel or join “The Most Beautiful Art Tour of Alberta”.

A three-kilometre stroll on the paved ‘Friendship Trail’ brings you to the nearby town of Black Diamond. First settled when coal was discovered in 1800, you can still see outcroppings on the Friendship Trail. Embracing its past as a boom and bust town for coal and oil and gas, the downtown has been re-made with a charming historic look.

A town with lots of spirit, Black Diamond offers a wide variety of shops, galleries and restaurants. Four major events through the year make Black Diamond a destination. Light-Up Black Diamond, this year on December 7th, Diamond Valley Parade in the Spring, the ever-growing Diamond Music Festival and Canada Day Celebration and September Fest draw in visitors and residents all year long.

An abundance of camping, outdoor activities and wildlife along the Sheep River Valley means there is always lots to see and do. With an indomitable outdoor spirit, boundless views of the Rocky Mountains and sightings of deer, elk, moose, bear and cougars, living in the area or paying a visit is always an adventure.

At the southern tip of the Diamond Valley you will find the Village of Longview. True to the name, TOW N - SIZI N G.C A

PHOTO COURTESY JEFF NELSON

E ] Diamond Music Fest.

it is a place of beautiful views. Named for the two “Long” brothers who homesteaded nearby and the ‘view’ from the local post office. Today the village sits at the location of former 1936 oil boom town ‘Little New York’.

Embracing its’ past, Longview has Little New York Bistro, Little Apple Café and Bakeshop and the well-known Longview steakhouse with a New York City worthy three month wait-list for a reservation. A drive to this charming township will uncover the famous Longview Jerky Shop with 33 products, Prairie Lights studio, The Lost American Art Gallery and Museum and Garside Wilson Gallery.

Like all the townships in the Diamond Valley, Longview has reinvented itself as a destination for arts, cuisine, natural beauty and sport. Well worth exploring, the area never ceases to delight.

As the southern gateway to Kananaskis country, there is an abundance of camping, hiking, biking, fishing and E kayaking. In a short ten-minute-drive you are in some of the most beautiful and wild mountain ranges in North America.

No matter what escapade you seek, there is something for every age and taste in Diamond Valley. Adventure, beauty, tranquility and fun abound from every corner.

All year through there are family events, great food, arts and adventure to explore. Make your next outing sparkle in the Diamond Valley. TS

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T’IS THE SEASON!

Where to go for all your holiday gift giving needs

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ome the holiday season, we all start to get a little more festive than usual, and wait for the annual kick off of the holiday season.

For many towns in the Calgary area that means Christmas Light Festivals, Christmas and Holiday markets and visits from Santa and friends.

WRITTEN BY

Brandi Holmes

In Okotoks this year the holiday season started with the annual Light up Okotoks Event held on November 15.

This event always brings crowds of Okotokians, Calgarians and many other Southern Alberta residents to the town to enjoy the beautiful display of lights and of course the Christmas market.

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

A lot of towns hold annual Christmas markets in place of their traditional summer farmers markets, and most markets follow the same philosophy of make it, bake it, grow it. Most of these markets are usually held in the beginning of November, but some also carry over into the month of December for some of those last minute gift ideas.

I’m sure a tradition for many Southern Alberta residents is the very popular annual Millarville Christmas market and the Spruce Meadows Christmas market. Cars line up all along the highway, waiting patiently for their turn at the market. >>

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The Christmas market follows the same philosophy as the farmer’s market with a “make it, bake it, grow it” mentality, which lends to wonderfully unique and meaningful holiday gifts for your loved ones.

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

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The Millarville market was held this year from November 7 to 10. The Spruce Meadows market has a few dates from November 15 to 17, 22 to 24 and 29 – December 1. Spruce Meadows also has a wonderful Christmas Light display that cars are welcome to drive at a slow pace through, and who knows, maybe you’ll catch sight of a few reindeer!

Another great place to find one of a kind gifts is the Saskatoon Farm. This year will be their third annual Christmas Market with over 240 local vendors.

The farm has a different take on traditional holiday markets for it is more than just shopping. Enjoy the beautiful sound of carolers, the decadent smell of roasting marshmallows and who can forget the warm, mulled wine. This years market takes place on December 7 - 8 and 14 - 15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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There are also tons of destination stores that are worth a visit, especially when looking for one-of-akind gifts.

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

“We offer workshops all through November and December featuring different urns and centrepieces for the holidays,” explains Karin. “We have this wonderful creation station at the back of the store,

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where during workshops customers can pick and choose their different materials while I am on hand to help them assemble their creation.”

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

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

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

Once you conclude your visit at Red Barn Mercantile, a short stroll across the parking lot to Karin sister’s store, All Through the House is also sure not to disappoint. Monika specializes in rustic and farm antiques, re-purposed and up cycled materials and a walk through the store is sure to pique your interest.

“I have nine in store vendors that are all very unique. They all range in talent from re-purposers, artisans, steam punk, vintage and collectibles,

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cabin décor and shabby chic,” Monika explains. Her collection of vendors and products really adds to the array of interesting and unique things at All Through the House.

“During the holiday season we set up a huge 12foot Christmas tree which has become a destination photo op,” says Monika.

Sometimes with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season it is just easier to get run of the mill gifts and be done with it. But it is even more meaningful and fun to visit local markets and artisans to find that perfect holiday gift for your loved ones, and even yourself — I promise I won’t tell anyone.

There are so many options for markets and local stores that cater to the needs of the holiday season, so this year think outside the box and support local!

Season’s Greetings. TS

“We offer workshops all through November and December featuring different urns and centrepieces for the holidays.”

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L I FE S T Y L E

High hopes in High River

Young family finds the joys in small town living

WRITTEN BY

Pepper Rodriguez PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Alicia Mary

Arlie and Lena.

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ike any young family, the Chipmans were looking for the best place to raise their children and grow as a family. They felt their starter home in Calgary no longer suited their needs but could not afford a move-up home in the city.

They found what they were looking for in High River.

Mark, Lindsay and their two daughters, Arlie (3) and Lena (13 months), moved to this small riverside town around 37 kilometres south of the City of Calgary last year. They can’t be happier with their new life here.

“Our home in Riverbend was getting too small for us,” Lindsay says. “We felt we needed a bigger house as our family grew.”

“The problem was we couldn’t find anything that would fit our budget in Calgary,” Mark adds.

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They decided to go look at options in High River where Mark has family and had spent some time growing up, and it was like a revelation.

“Life here is so much better than we could have imagined,” Lindsay says. “There’s lots of room for the girls to play around in, Mark gets his own workspace in the garage, and I really love the big kitchen.”

“The town itself is a great location for us,” Mark says. “There are plenty of schools to choose from, all the amenities are there, and it’s a fun little town.”

It does seem that there is a youthful energy in the air strolling down High River’s picturesque downtown.

High River’s downtown has been completely revitalized, according to the town’s website, and there are several mixed-use developments featuring second and third-story apartments that are great choices for professionals looking to live in the downtown.

The beautiful George Lane Memorial Park and Happy Trails pathways border much of downtown High River, and many of its amenities are just short walk or bike ride away.

There’s a lively buzz in the commercial centre thriving from the increasing number of new inhabitants in town like the Chipmans.

The latest census points to an undeniable growth. Since 2016 High River’s population has risen by three per cent from 13,584 to 14,052 this year. Of that total number, a quarter are children or young adults, 41 per cent is aged 21 to 60, and 31 per cent are seniors.

The Chipmans are squarely within this demographic, and they are loving life here. >> TOW N - SIZI N G.C A

The Chipmans family, from left, Mark, Lindsay, Arlie and Lena.

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PHOTOS BY JEAN FAYE RODRIGUEZ

L I FE S T Y L E

According to the town’s website (www.highriver.ca), High River is now one of the most well protected towns in Canada from flooding, with over $200 million invested in flood mitigation and protection for the community.

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They were able to buy a 2,400-sqaure-foot, fourbedroom, three-and-a-half bath home with a sizeable front attached garage as well as a rear detached garage on a quiet cul de sac in Emerson Lake Estates community on the east side of High River.

The price point of $355,000 was what had finally convinced them that this would be the perfect home.

“That’s a fraction it would have cost for a similar house in Calgary,” Lindsay says.

“We immediately felt the small town friendliness, as our neighbours were very welcoming and even offered to help us out with work that needed to be done around the house,” Mark says.

High River fits their outgoing lifestyle too. Mark loves fishing and hunting that is in abundance around High River, and Lindsay loves horse riding.

The stable where she keeps her horse and the girls’ ponies in is just nearby.

“Our home is just a short walk to Emerson Lake where we like to go for short strolls,” Lindsay says.

“The commute was my biggest concern,” says Mark, who still works at an insurance firm in downtown Calgary. “But, in the year we’ve been here, that hasn’t been the case. It just takes me 40 minutes to get to my office on 17th Avenue S.W., and when the Ring Road is finally finished, I can probably cut that travel time to 25 minutes.”

He says the winter driving conditions on Highway 2 were much better than he thought it would be.

“The highway is always clear in the winter, it just gets messier when you get to the Deerfoot.”

The Chipmans also feel confident that the devastation wrought by the 2013 flooding will not happen again. Their community didn’t experience any overland flooding then, Mark says, and he is

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confident that the proper measures have been taken to make sure that High River won’t be in that position again.

According to the town’s website (www.highriver. ca), High River is now one of the most well protected towns in Canada from flooding, with over $200 million invested in flood mitigation and protection for the community.

This includes, the construction of permanent and interim dikes throughout town; returning two neighbourhoods to an undeveloped state to allow more room for the Highwood River to flow; and installation of backup emergency notification systems.

It says the permanent dikes have been built to protect against the river flows experienced during the 2013 flood, plus an additional vertical metre of protection.

The Town of High River is a dynamic and growing community in the Alberta foothills, 37 kilometres south of the City of Calgary, and 65 kilometres from the downtown core. High River’s central location within the Foothills, proximity to Highway 2, the City of Calgary, and the YYC Airport positions it as a regional hub able to support the needs of the Town and surrounding communities.

High River is a regional service centre with a diversified economy driven by several strong sectors, including agriculture; technology; health and wellness; lifestyle services; construction; automotive; creative arts; film and television production; and industry leaders.

Highriver.ca says the town has seen over 285,000 square-feet of new development since 2015. High River was ranked as fifth in Canadian Business Magazine’s (2016) list of Canada’s best places for business based on operational costs, market growth, and a business-friendly local government.

It offers residents an exceptional quality of life and the opportunity to live in a picturesque, peaceful rural setting while still being close to the amenities of a larger urban centre like Calgary.

“We love it here,” Lindsay says. “We’ll be here for the foreseeable future.” TS TOW N - SIZI N G.C A

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OKOTOKS AND DISTICT CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

2019 BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Local business owners and employees take the stage at the annual Business Awards Gala

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n Thursday, October 24th, the Okotoks and District Chambers of Commerce held the 2019 Business Excellence Awards at the Foothills Centennial Centre.

Surrounded by local business owners, and other local movers and shakers, a moment was taken to celebrate all the outstanding businesses, owners and employees that were nominated for this year’s awards. The Awards Gala rounded out an event filled Small Business Week where the Okotoks Chamber and Town of Okotoks Economic Development groups joined forces to educated,

encourage and celebrate all that is amazing here in our little town and the surrounding area of the foothills.

Congratulations to all of the nominees and the ten winners for this year’s 2019 BEA awards!

An event like this just goes to show that one can’t forget to shop and do business locally. There are so many incredible business right out our own back door. TS

Congratulations to all the nominees & award winners!

Community Impact Award

Bev & Blair Gordon Century 21

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Not For Profit Award

Sheep River Health Trust TOW N - SIZI N G.C A

Outstanding Customer Service (Business) Award

Momentum Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab

Outstanding Customer Service Individual Award

Carola Singer

DLC Canadian Mortgage Experts Canada First

Environmental Responsibility Award

Home Based Business Of The Year Award

New Business Of The Year Award

Extra Large Business Of The Year Award

Small Business Of The Year Award

Large Business Of The Year Award

Little Fast + Fresh

British Banger Company

Awedity Creative

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Okotoks Computers

Okotoks Sobeys

Natural High Fitness

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CO M M U N I T Y S P OT L I G H T: DAW SO N ’ S L A N D I N G

Dawn of Dawson’s Landing A new era begins in Chestermere with Dawson’s Landing

WRITTEN BY

Pepper Rodriguez

Chestermere is a “growing, vital” city, and a place where people want to live.

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A

new dawn is rising in Chestermere and it begins with Dawson’s Landing. The new residential community development from Qualico Communities promises to bring a new sense of diversity and opportunity to this vibrant lake town just east of Calgary.

Dawson’s Landing will be Qualico’s first major development in Chestermere, and the renowned, multi-awarded developer is very excited at the prospect.

“We are very excited to join the City of Chestermere,” says Claudio Palumbo, VicePresident with Qualico Communities Calgary.

“This west side of Chestermere where Dawson’s Landing is located is very promising. It’s the closest part to Calgary, proximity to Stoney Trail makes it accessible to almost anywhere, and the fact that it is so close to the employment centres in east Calgary and the airport makes it all that more appealing,” he tells Townsizing. “Dawson’s Landing will be an amazing community!”

Chestermere is a “growing, vital” city, and a place where people want to live, says Palumbo.

“The city’s administration has also been so

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welcoming and have been proactive in bringing investment to the city. Given these factors, it became apparent that Chestermere is an obvious place for us to develop a great community for people to call home.” he adds.

This collaboration with the city is highlighted by the recent signing of a partnership agreement for the construction of the Rainbow Road Sanitary Trunk in Chestermere. The agreement among Qualico, the City and fellow land developer, Anthem United, allows for the immediate construction of this vital infrastructure that paves the way for the further growth of Chestermere.

The young city has already grown to just under 20,000 residents, a 34 per cent rise from 2011.

Future residents of Dawson’s Landing and the other new communities sprouting up beside it are sure to benefit from this partnership, says City of Chestermere Mayor, Marshall Chalmers.

“As one of the fastest growing communities in Canada, we rely on healthy relationships with our development community to ensure that together, we create the most amazing neighbourhoods and communities,” he says.

Dawson’s Landing is already open for business,

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CO M M U N I T Y S P OT L I G H T: DAW SO N ’ S L A N D I N G

as the first group of lots has been released to the builder group and home sales have begun in advance of show home openings next year.

“This is very exciting news,” says Laura Field, Marketing Coordinator for Qualico Communities, “since last August when we had the groundbreaking ceremony. We have been getting lots of calls and emails, from people wanting to know more about the community.”

In total, 53 lots were released to the builders for the first phase. Broadview Homes, NuVista Homes, and Sterling Homes will be building single-family

front-attached garage homes while Trico Homes will build laned homes, and Morrison Homes will build rear-drive duplex homes. There will be 10 show homes, slated to open in spring of 2020.

“Prospective buyers can start working with their builder now,” says Field. “Even though the show homes won’t be ready until 2020, buyers can start talking with the builders and beginning construction

“This west side of Chestermere where Dawson’s Landing is located is very promising. It’s the closest part to Calgary, proximity to Stoney Trail makes it accessible to almost anywhere, and the fact that it is so close to the employment centres in east Calgary and the airport makes it all that more appealing.”

Besides the 4.8-kilometre lake, there is a beautiful golf course, skate and bike park, and hockey rink for everyone to enjoy.

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fast facts 266

ACRES OF LAND

22

MINUTE DRIVE TO DOWNTOWN CALGARY

5

MINUTES OR LESS DRIVE TO GOLF COURSE OR PARKS

15

MINUTES FROM EAST CALGARY

1,305

NUMBER OF HOMES ON BUILD-OUT:

10

SHOW HOMES TO OPEN

BY SPRING 2020

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CO M M U N I T Y S P OT L I G H T: DAW SO N ’ S L A N D I N G

“Having Chestermere Lake in your backyard is a huge draw. Lake living is something that many Calgarians seek out and Chestermere is the original lake community.”

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prior to the show home launch next year.”

Builders will include Morrison Homes, who will be offering rear laned duplex homes in the first phase, and Trico Homes who will have laned homes.

Broadview Homes, Sterling Homes, NuVista Homes will all have front-attached garage homes.

“With the wide array of home styles, frontages will be 20 to 45-feet wide,” Field says. “This will result in a wide variety of homes that can fit any budget.”

With infrastructure and servicing now under way on the 267-acre (about 108 hectares) community site, Qualico’s long-term plans are for the construction of approximately 1,300 homes over 14 phases.

The community of Dawson’s Landing is one of the first you approach when you come in from Calgary on Highway 1A. It is located in West Chestermere, immediately west of Rainbow Road and adjacent to the communities of Rainbow Falls and Westmere. “The community is approximately 10 minutes away from a movie theatre, Costco, and various Calgary retail options in the East Hills commercial centre,” Field says.

She also believes that the recreational opportunities readily available in Chestermere are a big reason why people would want to live here.

“We think those that know Chestermere know what a special place it is,” Field says. “Having Chestermere Lake in your backyard is a huge draw.

Lake living is something that many Calgarians seek out and Chestermere is the original lake community. The fact that you can use motorized boats, paddleboard, swim, and even ice skate in the winter is amazing. It makes staying active easy.”

Besides the 4.8-kilometre lake, there is a

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beautiful golf course, skate and bike park, and hockey rink for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, there are two schools within walking distance and there are two school sites in the community.

A regional Recreational Facility is proposed in Dawson’s Landing for all residents of Chestermere.

There is already existing retail that is directly parallel to Dawson’s Landing that has a grocery store, liquor store, daycare, brewery, dental, lawyer, dollar store, nail salon, fitness, pizza shops and dog grooming with incredibly easy access. In addition, there are many other retail and professional options within a five -minute drive.

Dawson’s Landing will be a modern, integrated community designed with the existing character of Chestermere in mind. But its focal point will be the enhancement of the existing wetland as part of the overall development of naturalized areas within the community.

Dawson’s Landing will be a modern, integrated community designed with the existing character of Chestermere in mind.

EcoPark, which will cover some 30 acres, will be used for recreation and education. A gathering point for residents, EcoPark will have a boardwalk and sheltered education areas for students to use.

Interpretive boards will stress the importance of wetland preservation, rehabilitation, and environmental sustainability and stewardship to residents while providing passive park surroundings.

“We are really excited about this community.

Not only because it’s Qualico’s first time in Chestermere, but because it’s going to have some really interesting elements that haven’t been done in other communities,” says Thilo Kaufmann, general manager of acquisitions and development at Qualico. TS TOW N - SIZI N G.C A