T8N magazine July 2016 by T8N Magazine

July 2016 t8nmagazine.com

LIFE’S A CIRCUS

Make Green Onion Cakes!

WOODLANDS WATER PLAY PARK

A Splash of Fun for Everyone

TIME FLIES

When You’re Having Rum

Delicious Ideas for

EATING PYROTECHNICS EL-DESCO Say Hello to the Art of Fire

The Realities of

HOMELESSNESS IN ST. ALBERT

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T8N July 2016 1

July 2016

Contents CONVERSATIONS 6 A City to Call Home

The realities of homelessness in St. Albert

ARTS & CULTURE 13 A Sense of Place Make a start on public art 16 IN THE SPOTLIGHT Pyrotechnics 17 THEN & NOW Forest Lawn Then & Now 18 THE 8s

Love at First Sight Sunglasses shopping made easy

LIVING 21 FOOD & GATHERINGS

Carnival Knowledge Make your favourite fair food at home

25 COMMUNITY CALENDAR 26 TRULY DEEPLY MADLY

I’ll Drink to That Time Flies When You’re Having Rum

27 May We Suggest… Tools of the Braid

CITY 28 MEET YOU THERE

Woodlands Water Play Park A splash of fun for the whole family

TRENDING 30 Howdy, Neighbours!

ABOUT THE COVER Life’s a circus. Enjoy the show. IMAGE BY BRENDA LAKEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Vancouver Island offers vacation options that are close but so far out

32 Bitters (n.)

The medicinal and not-so-medicinal truth

Everyone deserves to beat the heat!

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From the Editor

HELLO, JULY. We’ve been waiting for you. And what

a long wait it was. Thank goodness the reward is so sweet. What are we looking forward to most? The list is epic, but topping it are these July longings: Canada Day and fireworks, night skies and Ferris wheels, lazy Saturdays and ice cream cones, summer vacations and BC destinations. Sigh… Absence, indeed, makes the heart grow fonder. In case your summer list needs polishing, we’ve gathered CARMEN D. HRYNCHUK some ideas for getting you out and about this July. In fact, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Out & About is our guiding theme for this month’s issue. Leading that inspiration is our photo essay, which explores public art in St. Albert. And since no July is complete without Canada Day fun, we’ve loaded our community calendar with all sorts of festivities to enjoy. And did someone mention a Ferris wheel? That’s because this month’s recipes have us whipping up our favourite fair food at home: green onion cakes, waffle-iron corn dogs, peach fritters—even deep-fried pickles. Craving even more? Have a flip and keep reading. You’ll find recipes for rum cocktails, fun facts about pyrotechnics, travel ideas for BC getaways and everything you need to know to buy the perfect pair of sunglasses. So grab a piece of sunshine, and head outdoors. July is waiting, and it’s waiting for you. Cheers!

Feature Writers

T8N MAGAZINE

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 7 July 2016 PUBLISHER

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Rob Lightfoot

Carmen D. Hrynchuk

ART DIRECTION

Carmen D. Hrynchuk, Brenda Lakeman DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Carol Dragich, Correna Saunders PHOTOGRAPHY

Brenda Lakeman FOOD STYLING

Little Fire Creative PROOFREADING

Amy Lightfoot EDITORIAL INTERNS

Jennie Drent, Robert Michon CONTRIBUTORS

Shawna Dirksen, Lucy Haines, Leslie Vermeer OFFICE MANAGER

Janice Lightfoot CONTRIBUTING AGENCIES Image page 2, 8 ©pixelrobot/Adobe Stock Image page 6 ©Orlando Florin Rosu/Adobe Stock Image page 7 ©ovidiu lordachi/Adobe Stock Image page 16 ©Myimagine/Adobe Stock Image page 18 ©superkoha/Adobe Stock Image page 25 ©jpldesigns/Adobe Stock Image page 26 ©Givaga/Adobe Stock Image page 30 ©Doug Schnurr/Adobe Stock Image page 32 ©morphart/Adobe Stock

ISSN 2368-707X (PRINT) ISSN 2368-7088 (ONLINE)

ROBERT MICHON

Robert has a degree in History and English Literature from the University of Alberta and is pursuing a second degree in Communications from MacEwan University. Robert fills much of his free time reading, blogging or writing fiction. But when he doesn’t have a book in hand, he can usually be found outdoors, hiking or enjoying one of Edmonton’s many summer festivals. LESLIE VERMEER

Leslie is an Edmonton-based writer and professor who recently spent a year living in the waters off Vancouver Island.

For editorial inquiries or information, contact T8N magazine at info@t8nmagazine.com. Have something to say? Letters, suggestions or ideas can be sent to letters@t8nmagazine.com. FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION

Rob Lightfoot rob@t8nmagazine.com 780 940 6212 or visit t8nmagazine.com T8N magazine is published 12 times a year by T8N Publishing Inc. Copyright ©2016 T8N Publishing Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Content marked by the Sponsored Content

SC icon was produced in partnership between content producers and T8N magazine. PRINTED IN CANADA

Visit T8Nmagazine.com to meet the rest of our team and regular contributors.

T8N PUBLISHING INC PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT

Rob Lightfoot: rob@t8nmagazine.com Snailmail: #176, 311 Bellerose Drive, St.Albert AB T8N 5C9

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Conversations

A City The realities of to Call homelessness in St. Albert HOME BY ROBERT MICHON

“ARE THERE HOMELESS PEOPLE IN ST. ALBERT?” It’s

KNOWING YOUR NEIGHBOURS

a question that gets asked all too often when the topic of homelessness is raised in this city. Ten years ago, you might have been hard-pressed to find evidence of homelessness here, but things tend to change quickly as populations rise and economies shrink. The City of St. Albert and organizations like the St. Albert Community Village are already working hard to combat the issue, but there is still much more work to be done, primarily when it comes to our own attitudes. Many of us moved to St. Albert with the hopes of escaping some of the social issues that trouble big urban areas. As our city grows, however, we need to grow with it and consider issues that weren’t prevalent in the past. The question “Are there homeless people in St. Albert? ” can no longer be the extent of our conversations. They are here, and informing ourselves as to the realities of the situation is the first step towards finding solutions. With the proper facts and just a little bit of compassion, we can all work towards making St. Albert a safe and friendly community for all its citizens, whether they have a roof over their heads or not.

According to estimates from the St. Albert Food Bank, there were 98 homeless people living in the city in 2015, a substantial increase from just 35 in 2011. These numbers may seem small compared to Edmonton’s latest count of 2,252, but they still tend to catch most of us by surprise. After all, you would expect to come across at least some of these 98 people from time to time, perhaps collecting bottles or pushing shopping carts along St. Albert Trail. For most of us though, this hasn’t been the case, and we’re often left wondering just where it is that these numbers are coming from. Men and women fitting the stereotypical profile do exist here, and if you went searching, you’d likely find them. But the truth is, the stereotype doesn’t accurately describe the situation for most of the homeless people living in St. Albert. The majority of our homeless population remains fairly invisible. They are the couch-surfers, relying on the kindness of friends. They are the recently unemployed and evicted, living out of their cars. They are the mothers and children who are fleeing domestic abuse. These people may not be sitting on street corners, but all of them lack the safety, security and financial certainty that many of us often take for granted. This definition of homelessness may seem a little too inclusive to some. After all, the people in these situations still have a roof

6 T8Nmagazine.com

FUN FACT The St. Albert Community Village is the first institution of its kind in Western Canada, with many cities using it as a model to begin combatting their own homelessness problems.

over their heads and friends to call upon, right? They have options. They aren’t truly homeless. The fact is though, that for these individuals, a warm meal and a safe place to sleep are not guarantees. The transition from invisible homelessness to what is called “absolute” homelessness can be quick and quite unexpected. When that couch you were counting on disappears, when the kindness of friends runs out or when your car finally breaks down, you can find yourself out on the streets in a hurry—not an appealing thought ever, let alone in the middle of a Canadian winter.

THE STIGMAS Invisible homelessness might seem like an easy fix. If you’re dealing with domestic abuse, call the police. If you’re struggling with substance addiction or mental health issues, get yourself into a program. If you’re couch-surfing or living out of your car, tell your family or friends; they’re probably willing to help. Unfortunately, this is all easier said than done. The stigmas that exist in our culture prevent many homeless people from speaking out about their situations. Many spouses and children remain silent over domestic abuse, thinking it’s a problem they have to fix on their own. And while many people are becoming more aware of substance abuse and mental health disorders every day, it still fills many people with shame to admit to having these problems. We’ve all been in that situation at least once, where we’ve chosen to hide our problems rather than being “a burden” to those who might help us. Shame can be a powerful force, and is often the biggest hindrance to seeking help. According to the St. Albert Community Village, the city’s go-to resource centre for struggling and homeless citizens, the majority of homeless people in St. Albert are couch-surfers, and a sizable number of

couch-surfers are youths fleeing bad conditions at home. But if you were to ask this demographic if they identify as homeless, the answer would almost certainly be no. They often don’t want to admit to themselves or others that they might need help, lest they be judged or ridiculed. When help is not asked for, it is rarely provided, and life on the streets may soon turn into the only option. Openness, honesty and understanding are often the best tools when it comes to getting people back on their feet, and these same tools can be used to prevent homelessness before it even begins.

“People aren’t afraid to talk about it as much anymore. You have to give kudos to the agencies working to build that awareness.” –Susan Krecsy, Executive Director of the St. Albert Community Village

WHY ST. ALBERT? Many people wonder why the homeless would come to live (or choose to remain) in St. Albert, when many more resources are available to them in Edmonton’s core. They choose to live here for the same reason that many of the rest of us do: Because it’s their home. They know St. Albert, and they know that it’s safe. They have fond memories here, and sometimes even family and friends to call on. The shelters in Edmonton can be violent places with easy access to drugs and alcohol—dangerous substances for those struggling with addiction. St. Albert doesn’t have shelters or soup kitchens, but the St. Albert Community Village says that this is exactly why many homeless men and

women choose to call this city home—it’s not a place where they can easily build dependencies. In the short term, St. Albert is a place where they feel they can sleep a little easier at night, safer from attacks and the dangers of substance abuse. In the long term, it is a place that will force them to get back on their feet.

THE ST. ALBERT COMMUNITY VILLAGE For those ready to get back on their feet, the St. Albert Community Village is the place to start. Since it opened in 2009, the Village has acted as a resource centre not only for the homeless but also for anyone needing help getting their lives back on track. The Village is intentionally not a homeless shelter. According to Susan Krecsy, executive director of the St. Albert Community Village, this is a decision that came from the clients themselves. In fact, all of the programs offered at the Village arose as suggestions from those who make use of it. According to Susan’s clients at the Village, the culture that develops in shelters is often detrimental to those wishing to turn their lives around. The Village offers aid in the form of money management classes, meditation rooms, cooking lessons and myriad of other services in order to ensure the financial, mental, emotional and physical well-being of their clients. More important than the Village’s programs though, is its ability to connect people to the resources that are most appropriate to their specific problem. “We don’t offer counselling here,” says Susan. “We connect our clients with those who are better equipped to help them.” But the Village isn’t just unloading the problem onto someone else. “For most of our clients, a closed door can be a big barrier. We can send them for help, but if they don’t know who is in that office, they’ll often turn around without going in. We set up appointments for them, give them the names of who they’ll be meeting and let them know that T8N July 2016 7

“It isn’t just about fixing the shelter needs; we need to find ways to address the underlying issues associated with homelessness.”

they’ll be expected. It’s a small thing, but it goes a long way.” The Village is currently self-funded through grants but works closely with the City of St. Albert and local businesses to ensure that they have the resources they need. “The businesses are very supportive of us, whether it’s through fundraising, donations or collecting data through surveys. There are lots of people collaborating now. The more you talk about it, the more the fear-factor goes down.” Talking about the problem is one of the most important steps. Because of reluctance to talk about homelessness (either on the part

–Scott Rodda, Director of Family and Community Support Services St. Albert of the community or from the homeless themselves), it can be hard to gather the data and resources that the Village requires. But Susan sees awareness rising every day. “People aren’t afraid to talk about it as much anymore. You have to give kudos to the

agencies working to build that awareness. That’s huge. The next most important step, I’d say, is getting enough staff in here to help with our work.”

AFFORDABLE HOUSING Once problems of addiction, abuse, unemployment and mental health have been resolved (or at least held at bay), the next step is to get people into affordable housing. This is where the City of St. Albert comes in. We aren’t typically known for affordable housing here in St. Albert. In fact, just the opposite is true. It can be expensive to live here. That’s why affordable housing initiatives from the City are so important. Part of the City’s mandate is to ensure “that all residents have a place to live, and that individual families are able to meet their

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Did You Know? The population of St. Albert is expected to double in the next 30 years, making safe and affordable housing more of a priority than ever before.

basic needs and achieve financial security.” To help accomplish this goal, the City has been working alongside organizations like St. Albert Affordable Housing, the Sturgeon Foundation and Habitat for Humanity to increase the number of lower-income rental properties across the city. These properties include apartment buildings, condos and basement suites that are priced to be available to low-income citizens of the city. In addition to these development projects, the city offers a rental-assistance program to those in need. The City is also working on a Homelessness Prevention Strategy of its own in an effort to combat homelessness at its core. According to Scott Rodda of the City of St. Albert, “It isn’t just about fixing the shelter needs; we need to find ways to address the underlying

issues associated with homelessness. Poverty, addiction and mental health can’t necessarily be fixed through policy; however, policies do provide the structure, leadership and commitment needed to begin addressing them. That will be our intent for developing future policy.” The Homeless Prevention Strategy is expected to begin planning in November of this year, following the completion of a year-long study into the issue. Needless to say, this strategy could be very significant in deciding the future state of homelessness in St. Albert. There is no firm date yet for when the plan will be unveiled, but keep an eye on the City’s website in the coming months.

THE FUTURE It would be comforting to think of the St. Albert Community Village and the funding for the City’s housing efforts as temporary,

to be happily discontinued once the issue of homelessness has been solved. Unfortunately, that isn’t a likely outcome. As Susan Krecsy points out, when the Edmonton Food Bank was founded in 1981, it was hoped that it would be a temporary fix, that the need for it would soon disappear. But the Food Bank didn’t disappear in Edmonton, and neither did the homeless. There will always be those who are down on their luck and in need of some help to get themselves back on track. As the population of St. Albert continues to rise, the number of people in need will likely rise alongside it. Homelessness can only be successfully managed with the help of a constant effort from everyone in St. Albert, whether that means volunteering your time, donating to the food bank or just having the courage to step up and ask if your struggling neighbour needs a little bit of help. t8n

T8N July 2016 9

sunwear update summer ’16 Trends in Sunwear this season It’s not summer without sunglasses. If you’re in the market for a pair this summer, we thought we would give you a few pointers to step up your sunwear game. 1. OVERSIZED IS HERE TO STAY THROUGH ’16

Popular even in 2015, oversized sunwear have proven they are here to stay. Although not set in stone and not always suited to every frame style, think oversized aviators for men (or the new, square-shaped aviator called Naviator), and more cat’s-eye shapes for women. 2. MIRRORED OR DARK LENSES

There has been a definite spike in the popularity of mirrored lenses, especially the blue-reflective colour. Be it a trendy new frame shape or a classic such as the Wayfarer, the mirrored finish is an easy way to bump up the style factor. Outside of mirror finishes, the second most popular is still the classic dark lenses, along with some interest in other non-mirrored colour finishes, such as yellow. 3. COLOUR AND EMBELLISHMENTS

Thick, colourful frames are still very popular. For the more adventurous and fashion forward, more interesting geometric shapes are trending.

Details, details, details...there are all types, forms and designs in terms of details from the barely there to the over-the-top embellishments. The fashion world will tell you there is no limit to the acceptable amount of added details, but mid-ground is likely a good “rule of thumb.” 4. MATERIALS

Wood and Translucid. Although not for everyone, there is a more refined wooden eyewear trend for this year. It’s thinner, more detailed and more widely available with natural, warm colours being the most popular, such as a natural brown wood. Combined with a modern mirrored lens, it is a very cool, eclectic look. Translucid is also getting very popular; think semitransparent coloured frames especially when combined with dark lenses. 5. SHAPES

Classics are still popular in 2016 and are a great choice, but consider combining that classic aviator with mirrored lenses to freshen the style. For women the cat’s-eye shape is particularly in fashion, but unisex shapes in aviator/naviator and round are also very trendy. Still as important as it is to choose a trendy style, always keep in mind what shapes are most flattering for your face shape. Here is a quick rundown: Round Face—offset with a geometric or rectangular shape to elongate or even try a cat’s-eye shape—if chosen well—to sharpen your features. Square—curvier frames with rounded edges Heart Shaped (think broad brow, narrow chin)—bottom heavy, rectangular, aviators Oval—almost any frame style works when fit well

10 T8Nmagazine.com

Performance Sunwear From high style to high performance, sunglasses can do much more then just look great. Sports sunglasses can give a performance edge to all levels of athletes. Many sports enthusiasts ensure they have the greatest gear in general, but overlook what sunglasses can do to improve their vision and their game. Sunlight is composed of many different colours of light, each colour determined by its wavelength, and when they’re combined they create white light. When certain colours are selectively reduced from getting to the eye by the use of different lens coatings and materials, we can reduce glare and improve contrast. If you’re an athlete or just a weekend warrior, this ability to see with greater speed, accuracy and with more comfort might give you the edge you are looking for, even if your only competition is yourself. For a golfer, we can make the patterns on the greens stand out better to allow you a better read; for a mountain biker, it’ll help judge the trail better in order to choose the appropriate line. Here is a quick guide to help you navigate your next purchase. If your only goal is to see the colours in your environment accurately don’t choose a colour; instead opt for a neutral grey lens which reduces overall brightness, but with no change in colour perception. On the other hand, if you’re willing to give up some colour accuracy for improved contrast and hopefully performance, each colour has its pros and cons: Yellow/Orange—better contrast in low-light, hazy conditions for indoor or outdoor Amber/Rose/Red—better contrast in partially cloudy or sunny conditions but with significant colour perception change Dark Amber/Copper/Brown—blocks low wavelength blue light giving better contrast and acuity. Especially good for grass sports and bright blue skies (together with a polarized coating makes an amazing golf lens)

The Lowdown on UV and HEV Protection

Green—some contrast enhancement with minimal change in colour perception No one colour works for all lighting conditions perfectly, so consider getting more than one pair, or sunglasses with interchangeable lenses if you’re involved in multiple sports or in a variety of lighting conditions. If you have any questions our staff are always here to help.

Above all, remember to ensure your sunwear protects your eyes. The amount of UV protection offered by a lens is determined by the lens material, coatings or additives applied to the lens. It is important to realize that the colour and tint are not always good indicators of the level of UV protection offered. UV light is part of the nonvisible light spectrum we are exposed to when out in the sun. It is particularly damaging to the front (i.e. conjunctiva or whites of your eyes, the cornea or the clear part in the centre of your eye) and the middle structures in your eye ( i.e. the lens that focuses light behind your pupil). What many people don’t realize is that a portion of the visible spectrum in the blue-violet range is also very damaging; it can penetrate further to the back of the eye to cause damage to your retina (part of the eye that receives and starts processing the light). On the flip side, light in the blue-turquoise range is essential to not only our vision, but also our Circadian biological clock

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and our sleep/wake cycle. If we block all the light in this spectrum, it can affect our sleeping patterns and other aspects of our general health. Not to worry—we now have treatments for our sunglass lenses that selectively block the HEV (high energy visible light) in the most damaging blue-violet range. And just when we thought we were safe indoors, the increasing use of LED/CFL light bulbs inside and out, which is great for reducing the monthly bill and possibly indirectly helping the environment, has greatly increased our blue-violet exposure everyday. Some food for thought for your next eye wear purchase as we can now add an almost invisible coating to all your eyewear to block most of these harmful rays. Have a fantastic patio and golf season, St. Albert. If you have any questions we are here to help. Look for our piece on screening and protecting our kids from sports related concussions in the September issue of T8N. —Dr. Peter Roed and the Eyeland Optometry Team

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A SENSE OF PLACE

Make a start on public art

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDA LAKEMAN

T’S NO SECRET: art is a fundamental

part of our city’s narrative. Not only does it beautify our public spaces, it tells the story of our history and of the people who have shaped it. St. Albert has been commissioning and collecting public art since the 1970s, and today, more than 250 pieces make up the City’s collection. From murals and sculptures to fountains and benches, here are a few to take note of when strolling the city. Take a look.

T8N July 2016 13

ST. ALBERT PLACE

he bronze sculptures and statues in the front plaza of St. Albert Place are probably the most well-known and loved pieces of public art in the city. Hide & Seek, the whimsical sculpture of a little boy and his leashed dog tangled around a bench, is St. Albert’s first Art in Public Spaces artwork (1994), designed to make people smile. In fact, the piece is so popular that the hair-like texture on the dog’s back is smoothing out from all the pats he gets from fascinated children. Internationally renowned artist Barbara Paterson created this as well as The Famous Five (in Calgary and Ottawa), which was featured on Canada’s previous $50 bill.

Did You Know? Since outdoor public art has to withstand the Alberta elements year‑round, the City is developing new techniques for sustaining and extending the life of our outdoor murals. They include using changeable framing systems, water diversion and updated printing techniques. The City funds art in public spaces through its Percent for Art policy, where 1% of the cost of eligible capital projects is retained for the purchase of public art.

The newer statue on the plaza, Legacy of Love & Learning, is a tribute to one of our mostknown and beloved citizens: Lois Hole. The statue depicts Hole (gardener, author and Alberta’s 15th Lieutenant Governor) with a little girl who is clutching a book. Paterson, a long-time friend of Hole, said she wanted to create a tribute that showed her friend’s love of children and learning. And as with most of the artist’s sculptures, a dog makes an appearance in this one, too—the little girl’s ponytails are dog-shaped. The statue will eventually be moved to Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park.

CELEBRATION GARDEN

he artworks in Celebration Garden are diverse, beautiful and functional—a bench, fountain and gazebo among them. The most recent sculpture, titled Millie Seitz, Volunteer Appreciation, arrived in 2011 as a tribute to the volunteer community and to commemorate St. Albert’s 150th anniversary. Seitz dedicated much of her life to volunteering in St. Albert, and she was pivotal in leading the Garden’s development. The other artworks in the Garden were donated to mark the International Year of Older Persons and are an example of how some public art comes to exist in the City— via community organizations and individuals.

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Above: Art isn’t always at eye level, evidenced by the Healthy Communities mural that hangs above San Remo restaurant on Perron Street. The acrylic on panel mural by artist Bella Totino-Busby’s was commissioned to highlight various aspects of healthy living. Despite being 17 years old (2 years past its expected lifespan), it remains in excellent condition. Left: Welcoming passersby along St. Thomas Street, Blooms Bench is artist Karen Ho Fatt’s colourful nod to our flower-focused burg. A favourite spot for photo ops, the bench is an icon in the downtown landscape.

RED WILLOW TRAIL (NORTH PROMENADE)

rtist Stewart Steinhauer always wanted one or more of his five granite sculptures to be placed near St. Albert Place, and his wish came true when the City bought the collection in 2010. Each sculpture references stories passed down by the people of St. Albert before settlers arrived. Look for Mother Bear Prays for Earth Healing, Mother Earth Circling Buffalo, Buffalo Mountain, Star Woman and Red Thunder’s Gift.

he City, together with its Public Art Advisory Committee, is looking to expand its public art collection and to move it beyond the downtown to parks and recreation facilities. Whether downtown or enjoying one of the city neighbourhoods, residents are invited to celebrate the art wherever they find it. t8n

T8N July 2016 15

Fun Fact Most people know that fireworks were invented in ancient China. But modern pyrotechnic displays didn’t come about until the 1800s when Italian scientists started to experiment with different colours and intensities of light.

PYROTECHNICS The art of fire EVERY CANADA DAY, cities all over

MORE THAN JUST FIREWORKS

the country are treated to wondrous pyrotechnic displays. It seems like it would be a great job to have, but being the one to light the fuse that brings joy to thousands involves a lot more than one might think. If you’ve ever wondered what it would take to put on a show yourself, we’ve got the info to get you started.

When most people think of pyrotechnics, they think of simple fireworks. And while that’s not wrong, you’d be way more accurate to compare pyrotechnics to a beautiful painting and to think of fireworks as one of the many pigments on the artist’s palette. It might seem strange to talk about fire and explosions as art, but that’s exactly what the word pyrotechnic means: the art of fire. Pyrotechnic operators work with all kinds of tools and in all kinds of environments. Every time you see a fireball go off at a rock concert or an action hero running from an explosion on TV, you’re witnessing a pyrotechnic performance. You’ve probably even put on a few basic pyrotechnic shows yourself—every time you’ve lit sparklers on a birthday cake.

PYROTECHNICS & CANADIAN LAW

Did You Know? While Sturgeon County and the City of Edmonton allow the use of consumer fireworks with a permit from a local fire department, the rules are stricter within St. Albert city limits. All pyrotechnic devices, regardless of classification, require an official federal certification to use, in addition to the standard municipal permits. 16 T8Nmagazine.com

While pyrotechnics can be a source of great beauty, they can also be extremely dangerous. As explosive devices, pyrotechnics are regulated by Natural Resources Canada (NRC) and are categorized by safety level. Display fireworks and pyrotechnic effect fireworks are both considered by NRC to be extremely hazardous and require a special certification to buy and operate legally. These are the pyrotechnic devices that you’re used to seeing at celebrations and on the big screen. They include anything from the standard aerial fireworks to the experimental pyrotechnic wonders that haven’t quite found a name yet.

Consumer fireworks are pyrotechnic devices that are considered relatively safe and can be acquired and operated by almost anyone. These include recreational devices such as sparklers, Roman candles and some non-projectile fireworks. While these types aren’t regulated federally, in Alberta, many municipal and county bylaws require that these pyrotechnics be purchased and operated by adults with valid permits. Additionally, many seemingly tame pyrotechnic devices (such as cherry bombs and firecrackers) are banned entirely in Canada. Always be sure to check the local regulations AND the current fire-hazard level before putting on a show of your own.

GETTING CERTIFIED If you’re interested in becoming a pyrotechnic operator yourself or are just interested in taking your amateur shows to the next level, NRC also regulates the official pyrotechnics certification process. There are two different certifications: one covers fireworks, and the other covers the wider world of pyrotechnic effects. The two categories don’t overlap, so be sure you know exactly which kinds of devices you’re interested in before you apply. In order to receive your licence, you’ll have to be over the age of 18 and complete a brief safety and training course. This course is usually a few days at most and teaches you everything you need to know about operating pyrotechnics safely. Once certified, you’ll be on your way to perfecting your craft and giving people a show they’ll never forget. t8n

Then & Now

FOREST LAWN THEN & NOW

THE COMMUNITY OF Forest Lawn has a little bit of everything. It’s home to

a number of beloved schools, parks and businesses, a wonderful recreation centre and, of course, picturesque neighbourhoods that sit beneath a canopy of elms. But even though there’s a certain timeless quality to those winding streets, Forest Lawn isn’t that old by St. Albert standards. Having been around for only 46 of the city’s 155 years, Forest Lawn’s story is one of rapid growth and development during the 1970s, quickly establishing itself as an integral part of our city. Here’s a look back.

1970s Before Forest Lawn was founded in 1970, much of the land was indistinguishable from the surrounding farmland. But upon obtaining a development grant from the provincial government, St. Albert’s town council decided to transform the area into a residential district to accommodate the town’s rapidly growing population. Maps were drawn, streets were paved and homes were quickly put in. But there were still large gaps of land in the community that the town council simply couldn’t decide what to do with. Some wanted more residential zoning, while others wanted to sell it to private developers. The debates raged, and the land remained empty. One of these plots was already home to Paul Kane High School, though not the same Paul Kane we know today. Quickly after Forest Lawn’s founding, it became clear that the small school would not be able to accommodate the large amount of children moving

into the area. So, in 1973, a new school was constructed across the field that took both the name and the students from the original building. The old Paul Kane was renamed Lorne Akins Junior High, after the original owner of the land upon which the school was built. Bit by bit, the land around the two schools began to fill out. The St. Albert Daycare opened its doors in 1976, and the St. Albert Protestant Schools District Office followed soon after. In 1978, Fountain Park Recreation Centre opened its doors, becoming the first indoor pool in the city. Forest Lawn became the premier destination for St. Albert’s swimmers. Early on in development, a commercial zone was planned that would hold the Shell gas station, as well as an assortment of local business spaces. However, having a shopping centre so close to a major school zone worried many parents, as it was thought that such a space would have a “corrupting”

Fountain Park Recreational Centre, April 1979. Image Credit: Musée Héritage Museum

FUN FACT The late 60s population boom that lead to Forest Lawn’s construction was no small matter. The population of St. Albert more than doubled, moving from 10,243 in 1968 to over 21,000 by 1975.

influence on their children. It took nearly a decade of debate before the commercial area was approved for completion.

TODAY Physically speaking, Forest Lawn has changed little since that first decade of swift development. Our attitudes toward it, however, have grown quite a bit. Town council’s reluctance on deciding how to develop Forest Lawn’s empty field turned into somewhat of a benefit. That space, while still mostly a field, is now a major recreation area used by athletic teams from all over the city. The St. Albert Protestant Schools District Office has gone through a few upgrades over the years, reflecting the changing demographics of the city. It is now known as the Public School District and has expanded from one school in Forest Lawn to three, with twelve more schools spread across the city. The initial fears about the commercial zone turned out to be unfounded, as a number of successful and community-friendly businesses have made their home there over the years. These include a daycare and a comic shop that have, if anything, had a positive influence on the children of the city. The elms of Forest Lawn grow a little bit taller every year, but apart from that, the community has settled into place, still holding onto the charm that made it so appealing to newcomers back in its early years. t8n T8N July 2016 17

The 8s

Love at First Sight

Did You Know? One of this season’s top trends in sunglasses is the mirrored lens. Spotted on runways, celebrities and the style-savvy among us, mirrored lenses (in a variety of colours) are giving classic styles—like cat eye, butterfly and aviator glasses—a new twist.

Sunglasses Shopping Made Easy FEWER THINGS ARE more confusing

1. PROTECT THOSE PEEPERS

than shopping for a pair of shades. Your sunnies should be fashionable, functional and flattering, but oftentimes the perfect pair is the needle in an endless stack of frames, lenses and tints. The good news is you can simplify your search before even entering the store. Here are eight tips to consider when buying sunglasses.

Sunglasses have become such a fashion statement that we sometimes overlook their primary purpose to protect. To help save your eyes from sun damage, look for lenses that block at least 98% of UV light. To stop the sun’s glare, look to a polarized lens. Light travels in all directions, and when it bounces off reflective surfaces, we get glare. Polarized lenses let only vertical rays through (not horizontal rays), helping reduce glare.

2. DON’T DISREGARD DURABILITY

Top Sunglass Styles Defined Aviator: Tear-drop-shaped lenses; usually with a metal frame. Butterfly: Oversized glasses; shape resembles a butterfly. Think Jackie O. Cat Eye: Frames with pointed edges; shape resembles the eye of a cat.

Frames and lenses are made with many different materials that affect how durable your sunglasses will be. To help avoid scratches, look for a lens made from polycarbonate—a scratch-resistant material that still provides good clarity. For strong frames, set your sights on nylon; it’s more durable than plastic or metal.

3. CONSIDER COLOUR Sunglass tints come in a rainbow of colours; each tint filters light differently and affects how we see through our lenses.

Red and rosy tints brighten our vision in

Shield: Glasses with a single, large lens.

low light, so they are great for cloudy days.

Wayfarer: Glasses with a classic, trapezoidal frame style; Tom Cruise wore wayfarers in Risky Business.

Brown and amber tints also improve

18 T8Nmagazine.com

visibility on cloudy days. These tints provide contrast against green and blue backgrounds, such as grass, trees and water.

Grey minimizes brightness and glare; it’s a neutral tint, so it doesn’t distort how we see colour naturally. Green also reduces brightness and glare, but it also provides contrast on sunny days. Blue and purple are not only the trendiest tints in the bunch but also limit glare and enhance colour perception.

Yellow and orange tints offer the least sun protection but are excellent for foggy or hazy conditions.

4. FACTOR IN FIT Proper fit is important: the width of your frames and the width of your face should align, and your frames should sit in the middle of your face (equal distance from the top frame to the top of your head and from the bottom frame to the bottom of your chin).

5. MAKE NO MISTAKE ABOUT SHAPE The best shape for your sunnies depends on your face shape. Round faces look best in angular frames. Look for rectangle, square, wayfarer or shield frames. Oval faces look good in pretty much any frame (lucky ducks), but frames slightly wider than the forehead can provide balance.

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Square faces are complemented by thin, rounded frames. Aviators are a good choice; so are butterfly frames.

6. COMPLEMENT YOUR LOOK Your sunnies should reflect your signature style. Are you an edgy aviator girl? A retro wayfarer-wearing guy? And what about colour? Do you like bold bright frames, or is a classic neutral more your speed? Consider your personal style and the shapes that best suit your face to narrow your sunglass search.

7. REFLECT ON YOUR LIFESTYLE Think about your lifestyle. If you’re an athletic type, sporty wrap-around shades may be your go-to. If you’re always on the go, a grey tint perfect for driving may be your top consideration. If you tend to handle things with care, you could easily opt for some less durable plastic frames or glass lenses.

8. READ THE FINE PRINT Depending on the brand and where you buy them, many sunglasses come with a warranty. Before you buy, be sure to ask the salesperson about warranties and repair and return policies. Also make sure you’re clear on whether the policy is offered by the store or the manufacturer. t8n

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STURGEON COUNTY BOUNTY CULINARY COOKOUT AUG 5, 4-9PM St. Albert’s Nineteen restaurant will be in the park cooking up amazing dishes with local ingredients!

www.cookout2016.eventbrite.ca 20 T8Nmagazine.com

Food & Gatherings

CARNIVAL  KNOWLEDGE Make your favourite fair food at home STEP RIGHT UP! It’s carnival season, and

delicious is the main attraction. Not only are this month’s recipes carnival classics, they’re also pretty darn satisfying to make at home. From classic green-onion cakes to beer-battered fried pickles, there’s a little something here for everyone. So pick a recipe, and indulge a little. Summer’s short after all. So have your fair share. T8N July 2016 21

Crispy-Baked Spicy Drumsticks Hoisin & Honey Corn on the Cob Sweet, salty and oh-so garlicy. Fun to eat, too. 5 ears of corn, shucked and cut in half crosswise 3 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp melted butter 1/4 cup hoisin sauce 1/4 cup honey 1 tbsp tamari sauce 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice 2 cloves of garlic, minced 1 tsp freshly grated ginger 1 tbsp black sesame seeds (to garnish) Chopped red chilies and scallions (to garnish)

Preheat your oven to 450˚F, and line a baking pan with parchment paper. Next, combine the hoisin, honey, tamari, lime juice, minced garlic and grated ginger in a small mixing bowl, and set it aside. Spear each piece of corn with a thick skewer, and arrange the corn on the prepared pan. Combine the olive oil and melted butter in a small bowl, and drizzle it over the corn. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil, and bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven.

Crunchy and flavourful chicken doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. Give these baked beauties a try. 1 cup flour 1 egg 1 tbsp yellow mustard 1 tbsp water 3/4 cup panko crumbs 12 herb-and-onion-flavoured wheat crackers, crushed (about 1/2 cup) 2 tsp smoked hot paprika 1 1/2 tsp poultry seasoning 1 1/2 tsp cumin 1 tsp dry mustard 1 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp salt 6 to 8 chicken drumsticks Chopped red chilies and scallions (to garnish)

Preheat your oven to 350˚F, and prepare a baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. To create a breading station, place the flour in a shallow soup bowl. In a second soup bowl, whisk together the egg, yellow mustard and water. In a third soup bowl, combine the panko crumbs, cracker crumbs, paprika, poultry seasoning, cumin, dry mustard, onion powder, garlic powder and salt. One at a time, dredge each drumstick in the flour (tapping off the excess). Next, give them a quick dip in the egg mixture, and then roll them in the crumb mixture. Arrange the coated drumsticks on the prepared baking pan, and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove to a serving dish, sprinkle with salt and garnish with chopped red chilies and scallions.

Next, remove the foil and baste the corn with the hoisin-honey sauce. Bake uncovered for 5 minutes, and then baste again. Bake five minutes more, then remove to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds, red chilies and scallions.

Colors to dye for. . . Carpet that's BOLD school, not old school.

Waffle-Iron Corn Dogs Ready for a why-didn’t-I-think-of-that moment? Meet your new favourite corn dog. 1 tbsp melted butter or olive oil 8 hot dogs (we used veggie dogs) 1/2 cup cornmeal 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 2 tbsp sugar 2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper 1/2 cup milk 1 large egg

Preheat your 4-square waffle iron, and brush the moulds with melted butter or olive oil. Next, skewer each hot dog with a wooden skewer. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and pepper. Next, whisk together the milk and egg in a small bowl, pour it over the dry ingredients and mix with a spatula until just combined. Dip the skewered hot dogs in the cornmeal batter, and place 2 (evenly spaced) in each waffle square with the skewers facing out. Close the lid, and let cook 4 to 5 minutes until crispy and hot. Serve with mustard and ketchup.

Beer-Battered Pickle Poppers Deep-fried pickles verge on addictive—briny, crunchy and perfect with a beer. Vegetable oil for frying Dill pickles sliced into 1/2-inch r ounds (about 2 cups worth) 2 large eggs 3/4 cup beer (or more as needed) 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper 2 cups all-purpose flour

In a fryer or large skillet, heat 1 1/2 inches of vegetable oil to 350˚F. Next, place the sliced pickles on a layer of paper towel, and blot them dry. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, beer, salt and pepper. Add the flour, and

ROAST BEEF

whisk until combined. If the batter is a thicker consistency than thick syrup, thin with a little more beer. Use tongs to dip the pickles in the batter, shake off the excess and then gently drop them into the hot oil one by one. Fry them for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping them once so that they’re golden on both sides. Remove the fried pickles to plate lined with paper towels, and season with a little extra salt. Serve with ranch dressing or some sour cream spiked with Sriracha sauce.

Green Onion Cakes What’s the secret to a crispy green onion cake? Read, and find out. 3 cups flour 1 cup boiling water 1/3 cup cold water 6 tsp salted butter, softened 1/2 cup chopped scallions 1 tsp salt 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

Place the flour in a large mixing bowl, add the boiling water and stir with a wooden spoon. Let the mixture cool 5 minutes, add the cold water and stir. Next, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and let rest 1 hour at room temperature. Divide the rested dough into 6 equal pieces, and roll each piece into a 10-inch round. Spread a teaspoon of butter on each round, followed by a sprinkling of salt. Top with scallions. Next, tightly roll up each round like a jellyroll. Then roll each “jellyroll” into a pinwheel (like a cinnamon bun). Cover loosely with plastic wrap, and let rest 10 minutes.

Peach Fritter Bites It’s not a carnival without a few fried treats, and these peach fritters are worth the indulgence. Vegetable oil for frying 1 cup flour 2 tbsp sugar 1 tsp salt 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp cardamom 2 eggs 1/3 cup milk 1 tsp grated orange zest 1 tbsp melted butter 2 large fresh peaches, diced 1 cup granulated sugar (to roll the hot fritters in)

In a fryer or cast-iron pot, heat 3 inches of vegetable oil to 370˚F. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, cinnamon and cardamom. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, orange zest and melted butter. Add the wet ingredients to the dry, stir until combined and then fold in the peaches. Scoop out heaping tablespoons of the batter, and carefully drop them into the heated oil, being mindful not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry the fritters for about 3 minutes, flipping them after about 2 minutes. When they are golden, remove the fritters with a slotted spoon or tongs, and place them on paper towels to drain. Next, roll the warm fritters in a bowl of sugar to coat, and serve.

On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to flatten each “pinwheel” into a 1/4-inch thick pancake. Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat. Place one onion cake in the pan, and fry it until crispy and brown. Flip, fry the other side and repeat with the other 5 onion cakes. Cut into wedges, and serve while piping hot.

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371 St. Albert Trail, St. Albert T8N July 2016 23

Green-Tea Strawberry Lemonade Classic lemonade is hard to beat, but green tea and strawberries add a nice twist. 10 cups of water 4 bags of green tea 6 large lemons, juiced 10 oz container of frozen sliced strawberries in syrup, thawed

In a large pitcher, place 10 cups of cold water and 4 bags of green tea. Place in the fridge to brew for 8 hours (or overnight). Remove the teabags from the brewed tea, and stir in the lemon juice. Next, press the thawed strawberries and syrup through a sieve or food mill, and add the juices to the pitcher. Stir, adjust the sugar and lemon to your liking and serve.

Ice-Cream Cone Cupcakes These little showstoppers are a playful alternative to everyday cupcakes. Perfect for birthday parties. 12 flat-bottomed ice cream cones 1 box of your favourite cake mix 1 can of whipped cream (or your favourite icing) Sprinkles (to garnish) Fresh cherries (to garnish) GROCERIES SUPPLIED BY

Preheat your oven to 350˚F, and take out 2 muffin tins. Prepare your cake mix according to the directions on the box. Then, using a tablespoon, fill each cone, being sure to leave 3/4 inch of space at the top so that the batter can expand and rise without spilling over and making a mess. Stand the filled cones in 2 empty muffin pans. Carefully place the pans in the preheated oven, and bake the cones for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, and let cool completely. Top each cupcake cone with whipped cream or frosting, and garnish with sprinkles and a cherry. t8n

ST. ALBERT

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Things to do, watch, hear and see this July.

EVENT

Canada’s 149th Birthday Celebrations Get in some family-friendly fun with activities, entertainment, games and, of course, food. There’ll be fireworks (fire ban and weather permitting) at Mission Hill at 11 pm. Date: July 1 Location: Riel and Rotary Parks For more info or to volunteer: visit stalbert.ca/canada-day

EVENT

Summer Drop-In Programs Summer programs are back at the Musée Héritage Museum and Heritage Sites. There’ll be opportunities to enjoy everything from crafts at the St. Albert Grain Elevator Park to game day at the Little White School. Date: July 11 to August 30 Location: Various St. Albert Historic Sites For more info: visit museeheritage.ca/exhibits-events/current-

upcoming-events

Canada Day 2016 Concert Entertainment

EVENT

Enjoy great Canadian music by Scenic Route To Alaska (winner for CRUZ FM Best Emerging Artist at 2014’s Edmonton Folk Music Festival), The Dungarees (nominated for Group of the Year and Fan’s Choice Award at the Alberta Country Music Awards) and The Odds (six-time Juno Award nominee). Presented by Christenson Developments.

Running Room’s founder, John Stanton, started this event 22 years ago to invite the country to get active by walking or running. This is a country-wide challenge, so head to your nearest Running Room, pick up your free race kit and get moving.

Running Room 32nd Annual 20-Minute Challenge

Date: July 13

Date: July 1

Location: Running Room, 17 St. Anne Street

Location: St. Albert Place, 5 St. Anne Street

For more info: visit www.events.runningroom.com/hm

For more info or to volunteer: visit stalbert.ca/canada-day

EVENT

Canada Day Strawberry Tea Head to the St. Albert Botanic Park for some Canada Day fun. There’ll be strawberry tea, children’s activities and music—all in the beautiful setting of the Botanic Park. Admission by donation. Date: July 1 Location: St. Albert Botanic Park,

265 Sturgeon Road For more info: visit www.stalbertbotanicpark.

com/upcoming-events EVENT

Ageless Art-Clay This event encourages adults to get artistic and socialize during this two-hour introduction to clay art. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, receive professional instruction on how to mould this artist’s grade clay to your will. Coffee and tea provided. Date: July 4

Weekend Passes Start At $99 Tickets & More Info: www.BluesInternationalLtd.com

Location: Pottery Studio, St. Albert Place,

5 St. Anne Street For more info: visit artgalleryofstalbert.ca or ahfgallery@artsandheritage.ca t8n T8N July 2016 25

Truly, Deeply, Madly

I’ll Drink To That…

Time Flies When You’re Having Rum

Did You Know? During the 17th century, the British Royal Navy staved off scurvy without really knowing it. When sailors’ rum rations were watered down, sugar and lime juice were added, with the lime providing the all-important vitamin C—the best preventative of scurvy.

RUM—A DELICIOUS addition to many

Between the Sheets

Hurricane

a cocktail—is made from distilling sugar-cane juices and molasses. And though all rum starts out the same, white rum is aged in plain oak barrels or stainless-steel tanks to remain clear, and darker rums are aged in charred oak barrels. Not sure you’re a fan? Step outside the rum ’n coke standard, and give these s ummer mixers a try.

This classic cocktail also goes by the name Maiden’s Prayer.

This is a popular New Orleans rum drink without all the rain and wind.

¾ oz brandy ¾ oz dark rum ¾ oz triple sec ½ oz freshly squeezed lemon juice Orange twist

To a cocktail shaker with ice, add the brandy, rum, triple sec and lemon juice. Secure the lid, and shake until chilled. Strain into a chilled tumbler, and garnish with a twist of orange.

Zombie Punch This cocktail is delicious but also aptly named. Drink responsibly, and enjoy. 1½ oz white rum 1½ oz spiced rum 1 oz 151-proof dark rum 6 drops anise-flavoured liqueur Dash of Angostura bitters 2 tsp grapefruit juice ¾ oz freshly squeezed lime juice ½ oz citrus-spiced sugar syrup ½ tsp cinnamon syrup 1 tsp grenadine Mint sprigs and lime slices

FUN FACTS Rum got its name from an old southern English slang Rumbuillion, which means a brawl or violent commotion. This, of course, is a nod to the effects of its overindulgence.

26 T8Nmagazine.com

To a blender, add the rums, liqueur, bitters, grapefruit juice, lime juice, citrus syrup, cinnamon syrup and grenadine. Secure the lid, and mix for 5 seconds. Pour into hi-ball glasses filled with ice, and garnish with mint and lime.

¾ oz spiced rum ¾ oz white rum 2 oz mango juice 1 oz orange juice Juice of half a lime 1 tbsp simple syrup 1 tbsp grenadine Orange slice and a cherry

To a cocktail shaker, add the spiced rum, white rum, mango juice, orange juice, lime juice, simple syrup and grenadine. Secure the lid, and shake well. Strain into a chilled hi-ball glass filled with ice, and garish with a slice of orange and a cherry.

Hibiscus Rum Punch If you like a little punch with your rum, give this sipper a try. The brilliant-red colour comes from hibiscus flowers. 6 cups water ½ cup dried hibiscus flowers 1 cup honey 1 cup white rum 1 cup demerara rum ½ cup each freshly squeezed lime and lemon juice ½ tsp Angostura bitters Lime slices

Add 6 cups of water to a medium-sized pot, and bring to a boil. Next, remove the pot from the heat, add the hibiscus and let steep 10 minutes. Strain into a large heatproof pitcher, stir in the honey and chill. When cold, stir in the rum, juices and bitters. Serve in hi-ball glasses filled with ice, and garnish with lime slices. Punch keeps up to 4 days in the fridge.

May We

Rum Daisy, Havana Style The Daisy started off as a 19th-century fizzy cocktail, but a bar in Havana put this delicious spin on it. 2 oz white rum ½ oz Yellow Chartreuse 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice ½ oz honey 1 dash Agnostura bitters 1 mint sprig, spiral cut lemon twist, a cherry

SUGGEST…

TOOLS OF THE BRAID

To a tumbler filled with ice, add the rum, Yellow Chartreuse, lemon juice, honey and bitters. Stir well, and garnish with mint, lemon and a cherry.

WHETHER THEY ARE tight and struc-

Flamingo Cocktail Jim Meehan from PDT Bar in NYC developed this cocktail as an alternative to the classic rum ’n coke. 2 oz white rum ¾ oz freshly squeezed lime juice ¾ oz grapefruit juice 3 oz pink grapefruit soda 1 lime slice

To a shaker filled with ice, add the rum, lime juice and grapefruit juice. Secure the lid, and shake until chilled. Strain into an ice-filled tumbler, top with grapefruit soda and garnish with a slice of lime.

tural or loose and romantic, braids are this year’s rock star. To get yours to last longer, here are some tips to max out your style. Condition first, then shampoo—Braids or no braids, shampooing after you condition will give your hair more loft and body. Braiding your hair while it’s slightly damp will also keep braids tight. Spray before you braid—Add texture and “grip” to your hair by using a dry shampoo or a sea salt spray before you start braiding. Add extensions—Adding volume and length

ENJOY THE SUN AND SCENERY

to cascading braids is as simple as clipping in a few extensions. Choose a shade slightly lighter than your hair colour for that balayage look. Start your braid tight, no matter what the style—You can always go back and loosen up a braid, so start tight. Day two can be your deconstructed look. Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase—It will lessen frizzing and make day-two braids look more bedroom than bed-head. Watch tutorials online—YouTube is chock full of braiding tutorials for beginners. And watching someone braid is always a little mesmerizing. t8n

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T8N July 2016 27

Meet You There

WOODLANDS WATER PLAY PARK A splash of fun for the whole family SUMMERS IN CANADA are never quite long enough, but part of being Cana-

dian is knowing how to make the most of this brief, beautiful season. Perhaps this explains the surging popularity of spray parks across the country. St. Albert’s Woodlands Water Play Park is open for only four months of the year, but in that time, it manages to attract a staggering number of guests. Families have been coming to the play park for 20 years now, looking for (and finding) ways to enjoy those hot summer days together. The city’s Recreation & Parks Department has been working behind the scenes that entire time to keep the park safe, free and fun for all visitors.

When Woodlands Water Play Park opened in 1995, it was the first of its kind in Western Canada. While its popularity has inspired the construction of many similar spray parks over the years, this has done nothing to slow the popularity of the original park. To this day, guests continue to flock to the banks of the Sturgeon River from all over the capital region. The park’s first decade of operation was, if anything, a little too successful. The park’s mechanical systems began to break down over the strain of such heavy use, and during the summer of 2006, the park shut down for some much-needed renovations. The year of closure didn’t hurt the play park’s guest numbers at all; the first two months back in operation saw over 17,000 people pass through its gates. Part of Woodlands Water Play Park’s enduring appeal is the amount of safety features that are built into its design. Parents are able to rest easy and enjoy the sun, knowing that their kids can’t get into too much trouble on the park grounds. First among these safety features is the fence that completely encloses the park. Young children can’t wander off into the surrounding parkland, and if they do get out of sight for a moment, parents will know that they can’t have gone far. The play park is also divided into three ageappropriate sections so that older children can

FUN FACT During construction, the aesthetic theme of Woodlands Water Play Park was put to a community vote. The iconic medieval theme won hands down, beating both the small-town and cowboy themes that were also considered. 28 T8Nmagazine.com

WOODLANDS WATER PLAY PARK AT A GLANCE Run by: The City of St. Albert Location: 165 Sturgeon Road Admission: Free! Interesting fact: There are 29 different water features in the park, offering many unique and creative ways to cool down.

run and leap about to their heart’s content without the risk that they’ll bowl over any of the younger guests. But if any of the more boisterous children do manage to hurt themselves, there are city supervisors on site, ready to deliver first-aid treatment as soon as it’s needed. In addition to these safety features, Woodlands boasts many useful amenities that continue to set it apart from similar parks in the region. There are washrooms and change rooms on

Did You Know?

site, as well as a fully stocked concession stand. And for those who’ve had enough splashing, but not enough of the sunny day, the grounds also include a dry park, as well as a large grassy area perfect for an afternoon picnic.

Being the first of its kind in the province, Woodlands Water Play Park had no health or safety regulations to guide its construction. The park’s improvised health and safety features were so successful, however, that Woodlands became the official model for all future spray parks in Alberta.

The next time that the summer gets a little bit too hot, consider heading to St. Albert’s spray park instead of retreating into the coolness of the basement. The basement will be around all year, but these sunny days need to be enjoyed while they last. t8n

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T8N July 2016 29

HOWDY, NEIGHBOURS! Vancouver Island offers vacation options that are close but so far out BY LESLIE VERMEER

IF YOUR DOLLAR won’t stretch to a

VICTORIA

European vacation, one alternative might be Alberta’s left-hand neighbour, British Columbia. July through September is an excellent time to visit Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. The weather is warm, and nature is at its finest. Whether shopping, dining or culture is your pleasure, this regional overview will get you ready to pack your bags.

Sure, you’ve heard it called the home of the newly wed and the nearly dead, but BC’s capital isn’t the city you visited in the 90s. Recently praised in Vogue for its robust high-tech community and dedication to craft brewing, Victoria is both a family-friendly destination and a sophisticated city for those travelling without kids.

THREE CHEERS FOR BC BEER Eager to explore Victoria’s craft-beer pubs? Here are five you won’t want to miss. Garrick’s Head Pub (1140 Government Street) Swans Brewpub (506 Pandora Avenue) Canoe Brewpub (450 Swift Street)

Most tourism focuses around the Inner Harbour, at the intersection of Government and Belleville streets. Here you’ll find the Royal British Columbia Museum, the Empress Hotel, BC’s Legislative Assembly grounds, access to city tours on double-decker

Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub and Guesthouses (308 Catherine Street) Moon Under Water (350B Bay Street) Local breweries host tours—with tastings— throughout the year.

buses, harbour tours on mini-ferries and whale-watching expeditions in Zodiacs. Close by you’ll find horse-drawn carriages, kayak rentals and numerous shopping destinations, including the newly renovated Market Square, Lower Johnson Street (one-of-a-kind boutiques) and Fort Street (Antique Row, plus galleries and specialty shops). There’s even more to see if you leave the core. Here are a few Victoria-area “musts”: Craigdarroch Castle—sumptuous former home of a Victorian industrialist; The Galloping Goose—former railway converted to a gorgeous multi-use trail; Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site— 19th-century coastal defense installation featuring the Fisgard Lighthouse; Sidney by the Sea—Canada’s Book Town, plus dozens of quaint shops; Butchart Gardens—botanical wonderland. You might be surprised to learn Victoria is also a foodie paradise. Locally sourced, organically grown food is a priority in Canada’s fittest capital. You’ve gotta eat, right?

SALT SPRING ISLAND Take a float plane from Victoria’s Inner Harbour or a ferry from Swartz Bay, and you’ll arrive at Salt Spring Island, BC’s brilliant cultural destination. With a population of just over 10,000, Salt Spring boasts more artists and performers per capita than anywhere else in the province. Janet Clouston of the Salt Spring Island Chamber of Commerce says, “The arts and culture scene here is better than in some medium-sized cities. To be able to have what we have here and a small-town life experience is amazing!” But Salt Spring Island is more than arts and culture. It also supports surprisingly diverse dining. From funky eateries like the Tree House Cafe to the grandeur of Hastings House (one of the West Coast’s most-praised restaurants), there’s something for every

30 T8Nmagazine.com

VANCOUVER ISLAND FUN FACTS Whale sightings along the east side of Vancouver Island peak in August and September.

If you have a boating background, you should know that Nanaimo is an increasingly popular base for folks chartering sailboats and powerboats. Nanaimo’s mid-island location is perfect for boaters travelling north into Desolation Sound or south into the Gulf Islands. On a boat, you have unparalleled access to the incredible Georgia Basin and its many tiny communities, which host some 200,000 visitors annually.

Fire Your Imagination this Summer! P AM

Founded as a trading post, Nanaimo grew into a coal-mining hub and later a forestry centre. For decades it was little more than a stopping point for visitors heading to Victoria and Tofino or exploring the Gulf Islands. But today, Nanaimo offers festivals, street performers, museums and water-based activities. It also shares Victoria’s mild, sunny climate and the West Coast commitment to locally grown, locally made food and drink.

With so much to see and do, Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands really are a paradise next door. The most difficult part of your trip may be convincing yourself to come home. t8n

ECIA

Nanaimo, north of Victoria, is Vancouver Island’s new “It” destination. Mountains, beaches, marine life—what’s not to love?

Port McNeill is the gateway to northern Vancouver Island and the Broughton Archipelago. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating, ecotourism, caving, camping and more in this small town. You can view grizzly bears in the towering wilderness of Knight Inlet, just a boat ride away, and the Broughtons is one of the coast’s top areas to watch whales.

En route to McNeill, or as a day trip out, visit Telegraph Cove, a charming microvillage (population 20!). The boardwalks and historic buildings reflect an industrial past, but today it’s a quiet place for relaxation and exploration.

NANAIMO

small, welcoming communities, including Port McNeill. Graham McNeil, who’s lived in Port McNeill since 1970, says the town “has the reputation for being one of the friendliest towns on the coast.”

Port McNeill is connected by ferry to historic Alert Bay, home of the world-class U’Mista Centre, a museum of aboriginal heritage. Plan to spend several hours there. Another short ferry ride takes you to Sointula on Malcolm Island, originally settled as a utopian cooperative. If you go, drop by the town museum— it’s fascinating!

Want just a taste? Visit on a Saturday. From April until late October, you’ll find the gigantic Salt Spring Market in Centennial Park in Ganges. Nearly 150 artisans take part in the market annually, and everything is made or grown on the island—part of Salt Spring’s authentic charm.

SUMMER ART

palate, much of it locally grown. Salt Spring Island has more than 200 active farms, including three vineyards. You can shop the farmers’ market in Ganges every Tuesday afternoon from June through October.

The Royal BC Museum says six of BC’s 34 First Nation languages were spoken on Vancouver Island. Many are now being rediscovered by a new generation.

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7 Perron Street, St Albert • 780-459-2525 • www.bookstoreonperron.com T8N July 2016 31

Bit•ters (n.) The medicinal and not-so-medicinal truth

FUN FACT According to the medical claims of the 19th century, some of the things bitters were supposed to “cure” are indigestion, flatulence, nausea, nighttime restlessness, memory loss, diaphragm pain, nervousness and hypochondria. Some common ingredients in bitters are horehound, anise, Jesuit’s bark, gentian, fennel, cardamom, caraway, liquorice, wormwood and cinnamon.

BITTERS ARE A must-have in the

A DASH OF THIS…

COCKTAILS & PROHIBITION

tickle trunk of any aspiring mixologist. But the origin of this pungent, pla nt-a nd-herb -based a lcohol is somewhat steeped in confusion. What is known, however, is that for cen turies, bitters were used as medicinal cure-alls. So when and why did they make their leap to the liquor cabinet? Here’s a taste of how it happened.

Bitters typically have long lists of ingredients derived from three main things: bitterns (bark, roots and herbs), aromatics (flowers, seeds and fruit) and, of course, alcohol. Those ingredients are then turned into bitters through one of three processes: infusion, digestion or maceration.

When exactly bitters switched from being a main part of a medicinal drink to being an ingredient in a cocktail, no one really knows. But pharmacist A.A. Peychaud may have helped it on its way with his bitters-cognac recipe. The first recipe to have bitters in a cocktail is the Sazerac (sugar cube, rye whisky or bourbon, Herbsaint, Peychaud’s bitters and lemon peel), which gave way to Old Fashioneds and Manhattans. But just when bitters reached their height of popularity, the enforcement of Prohibition (1919–1933) in the United States almost drove it out of existence. Because these recipes were closely guarded and very few people knew the entire recipes, bitters were easily f orgotten and/or very hard to get.

For infusion, the aromatic essences are added to the alcohol, distilled and the alcohol-rich condensation is collected. For digestion, the alcohol base “digests” the essences under a slow heating process until they’re dissolved. For maceration, the ingredients are steeped (like tea) but without heat. Some bitters are also made from a combination of all three processes.

THE CURE-ALL YEARS

Did You Know? Only five people on the planet know the recipe for Angostura Bitters, and they made a pact never to eat at the same restaurant or be on the same flight together.

32 T8Nmagazine.com

Doctors, chemists and botanists have experi mented with herbs and plants for millennia. Like aqua vitae (alcohol of wine), d iscovered around the 9th century, bitters was said to cure everything from headaches to ill tempers. A German doctor by the name of J.G.B. Siegert joined the 19th century Venezuelan military leader Simón Bolívar in South America. There, Siegert began experimenting with Venezuelan native plants and herbs to create a “bitter” medicine for Bolívar’s troops to keep their spirits up—pun intended. He named the medicine Angostura, after the city in which he developed it. A Creole pharmacist in New Orleans, A.A. Peychaud, also developed bitters to be used to cure stomach complaints. He told his clients to add a little cognac to the bitters to make it more drinkable.

RETRO WITH A TWIST Thanks to the TV series Mad Men and the rise of all things retro, classic cocktails are back on pop-culture’s radar. People are now proudly ordering Old Fashioneds, champagne cocktails, martinis and mint juleps—many of which call for bitters. As a result, Angostura and Peychaud’s have returned to bar shelves, and new companies are getting into the bitters game. Try adding a dash of bitters to your ice before adding the liquids, for this allows the aromas of the bitters to slowly release with every sip. However, don’t just think of cocktails when you use your bitters. Foodies are now adding them to barbeque sauces, soups and bisques, salad dressings, hamburgers—even crêpes Suzette. t8n

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